Tech Updates: Flock's Surveillance Changes, Cloning Advances, and Mapping Children's Cells

In a significant response to the increasing scrutiny over surveillance practices, Flock, a company specializing in police technology, is revising its protocols for accessing its extensive network of license plate readers. The revisions come after reports emerged detailing instances where officers misused this technology to harass or stalk former partners. Under the new rules, officers will need to provide a criminal case number to conduct searches in the database, and the company will enhance automated audits to flag suspicious activity. However, critics remain concerned that without verification of these case numbers, loopholes could still allow misuse of the system.

Meanwhile, the realm of cloning is witnessing groundbreaking developments. Scientists have successfully employed a CRISPR-based technique to transform male mouse embryos into female clones by removing the Y chromosome. This innovative approach not only opens the door for potential conservation efforts—especially for endangered species—but also raises ethical questions about its broader applications. The ability to clone could lead to genetically modified livestock, the creation of replicas of beloved pets, and even the controversial idea of crafting human “organ sacks.” While the implications are vast and complex, researchers are optimistic about the potential benefits in various fields.

In a different area of research, Deanne Taylor is on a mission to ensure that children's cells are represented in the Human Cell Atlas project. After attending a presentation in 2017, Taylor was alarmed to find that the focus was solely on adult cells, despite significant differences in how children's cells express genes. These differences can lead to varying responses to medications that are otherwise safe for adults. To address this gap, Taylor is advocating for the inclusion of pediatric data and plans to compile a comprehensive database of healthy childhood tissue. This initiative could provide essential insights into child development and help identify the early onset of diseases often recognized in adulthood.

As technology continues to evolve, various fields are experiencing rapid advancements that could reshape our understanding of biology and ethics. From Flock's adjustments to surveillance practices to the complex landscape of cloning and the vital inclusion of children in scientific research, the interplay between innovation and responsibility remains a crucial conversation in the tech world.

Source: www.technologyreview.com