About Careers Internship MedBlog Contact us
Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Advertisement

Skin can See Colours and Shapes?

by Rajashri on September 13, 2008 at 4:54 PM
 Skin can See Colours and Shapes?

A researcher at Tel Aviv University says says that colors associated with various moods may just be more than a metaphor.

The researcher claims that humans might be able to 'see' colours and shapes with their skin.

Advertisement

Engineering professor Leonid Yaroslavsky hopes that his optic-less imaging model could lead to a new form of optical imaging technology that beats the limitations of today's lens-based imaging devices.

His model may also explain how this controversial primordial instinct, which is observable in some plants and animals, might have evolved over millions of years.
Advertisement

"Some people have claimed that they possess the ability to see with their skin," said Yaroslavsky.

Though biologists usually dismiss the possibility, there is probably a reasonable scientific explanation for 'skin vision.'

He believes that once understood, skin vision could lead to new therapies for helping the blind regain sight and even read.

Yaroslavsky has explained that skin vision in humans is likely a natural atavistic ability involving light-sensitive cells in our skin connected to neuro-machinery in the body and in the brain.

Yaroslavsky is motivated by science and the design of new smart imaging devices, in which optics are replaced by computers.

He is currently developing imaging simulation theories using computer software, theories which may lead to future devices with practical applications.

He said that such devices would have distinct advantages over conventional optics-based imaging.

Applications could include special sensors for detecting radiation at sea and in airports to detect terrorist threats, new night-vision devices, or near-weightless mechanisms to steer spaceships to stars beyond our own galaxy.

Traditional imaging lenses only work within a limited range of electromagnetic radiation. They are still very costly, limited by weight and field of view.

Yaroslavsky said that requiring no lenses, optics-less imaging devices could be adapted to any kind of radiation and any wavelength.

They could essentially work with a "bionic" 360-degree field of view and their imaging capability determined by computer power rather than the laws of light diffraction.

However, before real-world applications can be developed, Yaroslavsky hopes to convince biologists to take a leap of faith and delve deeper into the mechanisms of optics-less vision. He believes that their input could propel imaging research to the next level.

Yaroslavsky presents his theories on the subject in a chapter of a new book titled "Advances in Information Optics and Photonics."

Source: ANI
RAS/SK
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Research News

Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks: Link to Traumatic Brain Injury and Dementia?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are detected in approximately 1-3% of adults who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.
Astrocyte Activation Through Optogenetics: A New Hope in the Fight Against Alzheimer's
The optogenetic activation of hippocampal astrocytes can be viewed as a novel therapeutic avenue for addressing Alzheimer's disease.
Link Between Cholesterol and Inflammation in Alzheimer's Disease Identified
In Alzheimer's disease condition, the control and adjustment of ABCA7 levels in response to inflammation and the decrease in the availability of cholesterol.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Atopic Dermatitis Share Common Links
Atopic dermatitis (AD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can lead to alterations in the microbiome, and disruptions in the skin and gut barrier.
Vitiligo-Associated Autoimmunity Linked to Lower Health Risks
Gaining insights into mortality risks among vitiligo patients will enhance patient counseling, healthcare monitoring, and overall patient management strategies.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
MediBotMediBot
Greetings! How can I assist you?MediBot
×

Skin can See Colours and Shapes? Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests