Phactum - 2012 01 - January

Magazine Overview

Title: Phactum
Issue: January 2012
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phactum, the newsletter and propaganda organ of the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking, dated January 2012, presents a range of articles focusing on scientific skepticism, critical analysis of controversial topics, and updates on medical research.

PhACT Meeting Announcement

A PhACT meeting was scheduled for Saturday, January 21, 2012, at the Community College of Philadelphia. The event featured Physicist Tom Napier, a member of PhACT, who was set to discuss "New Developments In Cold Fusion." Dr. David Cattell, Chairman of the Physics Department at Philadelphia Community College, was to host the discussion. The event was free and open to the public.

New Developments In Cold Fusion

This section introduces the concept of fusion energy and the ongoing quest for controllable fusion. It highlights physicist Tom Napier's upcoming talk, which aims to explain why physicists are skeptical of "cold fusion" and to question the claims made by experimenters in Bologna regarding its potential to disrupt the oil industry. Tom Napier is described as a physicist trained in Scotland who has worked for European research organizations and moved to the USA in 1981, developing scientific equipment. He has been a freelance writer since 1996 and a member of the Council of PhACT since its foundation in 1994.

Voodoo Science: The Road from Foolishness to Fraud

A review of Robert L. Park's book, "Voodoo Science: The Road from Foolishness to Fraud," is featured. The book is described as a journey through fringe science, from Deepak Chopra's "quantum alternative" to the hype surrounding the International Space Station. Park reportedly examines the origins of "voodoo science" and offers lessons on how to identify fraudulent science. The review notes that the book tallies the financial costs of worthless therapies and government projects, as well as the human cost of fear and mistaken views of the world. Park also analyzes the roles of the media, courts, politicians, and the scientific community in sustaining "voodoo science." The review concludes with Park's argument that public understanding of a scientific world view, emphasizing an orderly universe governed by natural laws, is more crucial than specific scientific knowledge.

Letters to the Editor and Other Correspondence

Phactum encourages reader submissions, including articles, poetry, letters, rants, and suggestions. The section also includes an "Errors" correction regarding the spelling of "Philadelphia Nerd Night" in a previous issue. Several letters are published:

• Tom Medero from Philadelphia comments on a "No Smoking Laws Are Enforced" sign seen on the Berks Street "EL" platform.
• Howard J. Wilk from Philadelphia corrects a misstatement about his knowledge of Harry Hershfield, clarifying that he wrote he didn't know who Hershfield was in the context of general public recognition, not ignorance.
• L. David Leiter from Willow Grove, PA, shares a quote from Albert Einstein about admiration for the structure of the world as revealed by science, prompted by a discussion on the "Laws of Nature."

Various Ruminations

This section, collected and written by Ray Haupt with help from others, covers several distinct topics:

Magical Cancer Cures

An item highlights a "miracle" story from the Abramson Cancer Center in Philadelphia, where three desperately sick patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) were cancer-free after treatment. This story is noted to be expanded upon on Page 9.

The "fracking" Controversy

Roland Wall, Director of Environmental Policy at The Academy of Natural Sciences, discussed hydraulic fracturing (fracking) at a previous PhACT lecture. The article notes the controversy surrounding fracking, with proponents citing domestic energy production and minimal environmental danger, while environmentalists raise concerns about water pollution. Wall's presentation stressed the need for scientific investigation. The article mentions an article in Scientific American by Chris Mooney, suggesting that gas producers could insert marker chemicals and that local water supplies should be tested. It also notes that vertical hydraulic fracturing has been used for 50 years, but the current practice involves deep horizontal borings. A link to an Academy of Natural Sciences video on Marcellus Shale drilling is provided.

Taking Multi-Vitamin Pills 'Does Nothing for Our Health'

This piece discusses an article from The Daily Mail, a British newspaper, which suggests that many people are wasting money on vitamin supplements. Experts cited in the article indicate that "worried well" adults taking pills to prevent diseases like Alzheimer's or heart attacks are wasting their money. The article also references studies suggesting supplements could be harmful, with one study finding that pills containing vitamins E, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, selenium, and zinc increased the risk of malignant melanoma by four-fold. Another study found that women taking daily multi-vitamin pills increased their risk of breast cancer by up to 20 percent. Links to the full Daily Mail article and a skeptical publication by Dr. Harriet Hall are provided.

Cheetah - RIP

A brief obituary for Cheetah, Tarzan's chimpanzee companion, who died in Florida at age 80. Cheetah came to the US from Liberia in 1932 and appeared in movies before retiring in 1967.

Wakefield Scandal Enlarges

This item reports on the anti-MMR vaccine scandal, referencing Dr. Barrett's Consumer Health Digest. It states that the British Medical Journal (BMJ) published articles accusing Andrew Wakefield and his hospital of acting irresponsibly. The BMJ concluded that Wakefield's 1998 paper linking the MMR vaccine with autism and bowel disease was an "elaborate fraud." The article notes that Wakefield was struck from the medical register in 2010. The BMJ editor-in-chief, Fiona Godlee, is quoted expressing concern that Wakefield's former employer, University College London (UCL), had not established an inquiry into the scandal, and the BMJ referred the matter to a parliamentary committee.

Quackwatch

Quackwatch is highlighted as a valuable resource for monitoring individuals claiming to offer cures. The website address (http://www.quackwatch.org) is provided, and donations are solicited to support its work.

New Hope Medical Center

This section provides information about New Hope Medical Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, which specializes in non-invasive alternative and complementary cancer treatment. Founded by Dr. Fredda Branyon, the center offers various services, including an immune-boosting protocol, detoxification, dietary changes, and intravenous Vitamin C. It also mentions orthomolecular approaches, chelation therapy, and integrated approaches like homeopathy and live cell therapy. The article notes that the actual treatment facility is a 40-bed inpatient hospital in Sonora, Mexico. The Cancer Cure Foundation is cited as a source of information on alternative/integrative therapies. The section also includes a cartoon from MCHUMOR.com and a quote from Dr. Stephen Barrett regarding "fresh cell therapy."

Voyage to Jamestown

A book titled "Voyage to Jamestown: Practical Navigation in the Age of Discovery" by Robert D. Hicks is featured. The book explores sea navigation methods and tools during the age of discovery, using a fictional voyage as a narrative device. It covers navigational theory, methods, and instrumentation within historical, economic, political, and religious contexts. Robert D. Hicks is identified as the Director of the Mütter Museum/Historical Medical Library in Philadelphia and a past speaker for PhACT.

Water Does Not Prevent Dehydration!!

This short piece reports that a panel of experts in the European Union declared that water is not healthy and that providers of bottled water cannot claim it is the best way to avoid dehydration. It mentions the EU's history of passing bizarre regulations, citing 1995 rules on fruit and vegetable dimensions and attempts to regulate root vegetables in Cornish pasties.

Beezow Doo-Doo Zopittybop-Bop-Bop

This humorous item reports on the arrest of an individual named Beezow Doo-Doo Zopittybop-Bop-Bop in Madison, Wisconsin, for charges including carrying a concealed weapon, drug paraphernalia, marijuana possession, and a probation violation. It notes that he legally changed his name in October 2011 and was arrested in April 2011 after officers found a loaded handgun in his backpack. A link to a news article about the arrest is provided.

Richard Dawkins on Alternative Medicine

A quote from Richard Dawkins is presented, defining alternative medicine as practices that "cannot be tested, refuse to be tested, or consistently fail tests." He asserts that if a healing technique proves curative in controlled trials, it ceases to be alternative and becomes medicine. The quote "There is no alternative medicine. There is only medicine that works and medicine that doesn't work" is also included.

PhACT Meeting Report - November 19, 2011

This section reports on a PhACT meeting held on November 19, 2011, where Roland Wall discussed the controversial topic of hydraulic fracturing (fracking). The report details the process of fracking, the Marcellus shale, and the potential pros and cons. Wall acknowledged that long-term effects are largely unknown but may include slight contamination. A study by Penn University reportedly found no notable difference in drinking water quality before and after mining. Methane migration is mentioned as a potential problem. The report notes that fracking sites create jobs and that the Marcellus shale has the potential to power the nation for about three years. However, it concludes that more research is needed to make a definitive decision on whether fracking is worthwhile.

3 Tumor-free Cancer Patients Were Home for the Holidays: Immunotherapy Proves Itself in a Surprising Clinical Trial

This article details a breakthrough in cancer treatment using immunotherapy. It follows up on a March 2011 report about Dr. Carl June and Dr. David Porter's research at the University of Pennsylvania's Abramson Cancer Center. The trial involved patients with acute and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (ALL and CLL) who had relapsed after bone marrow transplantation. The first three patients in the pilot trial showed dramatic positive results, achieving sustained remissions of up to a year. The protocol involves genetically modifying a patient's own T cells using a lentivirus vector to create "chimeric antigen receptors" (CARs) that target CD19-positive tumor cells. This approach is described as a "serial killer" T cell therapy. The article quotes Dr. June stating the tumors were "blown away" more violently than expected and Dr. Porter noting the approach's potential to offer cures in a safer manner than bone marrow transplants. The "secret ingredient" is explained as the CAR and a signaling molecule that triggers cytokine production, multiplying T cells to destroy tumors. The article also mentions the use of an HIV-derived vector in a previous trial with HIV patients, demonstrating its safety. Future plans include testing the CAR construct on other CD19-positive tumors and exploring CAR vectors for mesothelioma, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers. As of December 2011, the three clinical trial patients were reported to be doing well, in remission, and home for the holidays.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum revolve around the promotion of critical thinking, scientific literacy, and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly in the realms of science, medicine, and public policy. The magazine consistently contrasts established scientific understanding with fringe theories, pseudoscience, and what it terms "voodoo science." There is a clear editorial stance favoring evidence-based reasoning and rigorous scientific methodology. The publication actively debunks or questions claims related to alternative medicine, controversial scientific topics like cold fusion, and public health issues such as vaccine safety. The inclusion of letters to the editor and reports on PhACT meetings further reinforces the organization's commitment to fostering informed public discourse and challenging misinformation. The magazine also demonstrates an interest in environmental issues, as seen in the coverage of hydraulic fracturing.

Title: Phactum
Issue: January 2012
Volume: 11
Date: January 2012

This issue of Phactum, dated January 2012, covers a diverse range of topics, from the intricacies of neuroscience and the philosophical debate on free will to historical perspectives on abortion and a preview of upcoming science events in Philadelphia.

Neuroscience Renews The Debate About Free Will

This section features a column by Tom Medero, who explores recent developments in neuroscience that intersect with the age-old philosophical question of free will. Medero begins by discussing the phenomenon of "blindsight," where individuals with visual cortex damage can still interact with objects they cannot consciously see. He explains the two neural pathways involved and how research suggests the brain processes visual information unconsciously.

The column then delves into the work of Benjamin Libet, whose experiments in the 1980s identified neural activity occurring milliseconds before a conscious decision, raising questions about determinism and the illusion of free will. Medero highlights the expansion of this research by neuroscientist John-Dylan Haynes, who used fMRI technology to find neural activity up to seven seconds before a conscious choice was made. Medero, however, argues that these findings do not necessarily negate free will, positing that a choice is only a choice when it is consciously made and that the experiments only prove that unconscious and conscious thought have neural foundations.

He criticizes the overreach of some claims, suggesting that while Haynes' work is important, applying it directly to the free will debate might be premature. Medero concludes by emphasizing that consciousness is an evolutionary adaptation and that while scientific findings are exciting, they should be approached with humility, drawing a parallel to Charles Darwin's approach.

The Wickedest Woman in New York - Madame Restell

This article recounts the life of Ann Trow, who became known as Madame Restell in 19th-century New York City. After her husband's death, she, with the help of her brother and husband, began marketing birth control products. By 1838, she had adopted the name Madame Restell and, along with her husband (who used the pseudonym Dr. A. M. Mauriceau), published "The Married Woman's Private Medical Companion." This book served as an advertisement for their lucrative mail-order business and abortion service, which operated from the 1840s through the 1870s. They expanded their enterprise, opening branches in Boston and Philadelphia. In 1878, Madame Restell was arrested by Anthony Comstock of the Society for the Suppression of Vice. Unlike previous arrests, she was unable to buy her freedom and committed suicide the night before her trial. Her practice was so prominent that abortion became known as 'Restellism'.

ARE WE ABORTING ABORTION?

Written by Paul Schlueter III, this article examines the complex and divisive issue of abortion. Schlueter notes the recent legislative attempts in Mississippi to ban all abortions and contraceptives, and the failure of such measures. He contrasts this with Colorado, a more liberal state, where similar proposals faced strong opposition. The article also briefly touches upon Russia's evolving abortion policies.

Schlueter then shifts to a broader historical and cultural perspective, discussing how abortion has been justified throughout history for various reasons, including social embarrassment and unwanted pregnancies. He notes the natural occurrence of miscarriage and how human behavior can also lead to abortion. The author argues that in a world where unwanted pregnancies can have severe consequences, and where the ideal scenario of prompt adoption and responsible parenting is not guaranteed, the option of abortion should remain available.

He critiques the idea of a purely 'Pro-Life' stance without considering the complexities of individual circumstances and the potential for forcing women into difficult situations. Schlueter suggests that for 'critical thinkers,' a Pro-Choice default position is necessary to allow for informed and responsible decision-making, while acknowledging the need for legislated limitations, such as banning late-term abortions.

Philadelphia Science Festival and Other Events

The issue highlights the upcoming 2012 Philadelphia Science Festival, scheduled for April 20-29, organized by The Franklin Institute in cooperation with various science, education, cultural, and business organizations. Major sponsors include Dow Chemical Company, the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, LaSalle University, and the University of the Sciences.

Several other events and courses are listed:

• Rittenhouse Astronomical Society: Meets the second Wednesday of the month.
• The Academy of Natural Sciences: Features a conversation on Urban Sustainability with Michael Nutter, Mayor of Philadelphia, and other officials.
• College of Physicians of Philadelphia: Hosts a "Food & Thought" talk on "Mozart, Montesquieu and Medicine: Why the Liberal Arts Matter" by Rebecca Chopp.
• University of Pennsylvania Museum: Screens the classic film "Chang: A Drama of the Wilderness, 1927."
• PhACT Events: Includes talks on "New Developments In Cold Fusion" by Tom Napier, and "Bioethics and the Evolution of Consciousness" by Professor Stacy Ake.
• Science on Tap: Features a presentation on "When Good Drugs Go Bad" by Antoinette Thwaites, a forensic chemist.
• Philadelphia Nerd Nite: An evening of science lectures and entertainment.
• Wagner Free Institute of Science: Offers various adult education courses in Spring 2012, including Tropical Botany and Ecology, The Dog and Its DNA, Topics in the History of Life, Introduction to Pollination Biology, and Agricultural Science and Policy.
• Historical Society of Pennsylvania: Hosts an event on "City of Firsts," discussing innovation in science and technology in Philadelphia.
• The Academy of Natural Sciences: Hosts a forum on "Walkability: Philadelphia Strides Into the Future."
• Laurel Hill Cemetery: Offers tours on "Victorian Funerary Symbolism" and "The Hot Spots and Storied Plots."
• Chemical Heritage Foundation: Hosts Brown Bag Lectures, including talks by Christine Nawa and Michael Gordin (on the periodic system of chemical elements).
• Thomas Jefferson University: Dr. Andrew Newberg will present "God and the Brain," discussing brain processes related to religious phenomena.
• Historic RittenhouseTown: Offers a workshop on "Hand Dipped Candles."
• The Academy of Natural Sciences: Features an author talk by Ross MacPhee on "Race to The End," about the South Pole expedition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum include the intersection of science and philosophy (neuroscience, free will, consciousness), historical examination of social issues (abortion, women's health), and the promotion of scientific literacy and engagement through local events and lectures. The editorial stance appears to favor critical thinking, open-minded inquiry, and the presentation of diverse viewpoints, particularly in the articles on neuroscience and abortion, where the authors engage with complex debates and offer nuanced perspectives. The extensive listing of events suggests a strong commitment to fostering a community interested in science, history, and intellectual discussion within the Philadelphia area.

Title: Phactum
Issue: January 2012
Publisher: Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of Phactum, dated January 2012, primarily serves as a calendar of events, predominantly lectures and talks, scheduled to take place in Philadelphia and its surrounding areas. The publication is distributed by the Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking (PhACT), which aims to serve Philadelphia as a premiere learning institution by hosting engaging and educational talks.

Featured Events and Lectures:

The magazine details a wide array of events throughout February and into March 2012, covering diverse topics:

• Archaeology and Ancient History:
• A lecture on "Ötzi the Iceman: The Puzzle of a 5,300 Year-Old Alpine Mummy" at the University of Pennsylvania Museum.
• A presentation on "Pergamon and its Maritime Satellite Elaia: New Research on Urban Space and the Territory of a Hellenistic Capital" by Felix Pirson from the German Archaeological Institute.
• A tour and reception at Laurel Hill Cemetery titled "Til Death Do Us Part: Love Stories of Laurel Hill."
• A Victorian Celebration of Death tour at Laurel Hill Cemetery.
• A program honoring women's history at Laurel Hill Cemetery, "Classy Broads and Daring Dames: The Ladies of North Laurel Hill."
• A tour of Laurel Hill Cemetery focusing on "Hot Spots and Storied Plots."
• A St. Patrick's Day tour, Tastes and Toasts at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

• Science and Technology:
• A "Brown Bag Lecture" by Melanie Kiechle at the Chemical Heritage Foundation discussing the transition from anti-stench to anti-smoke agitation.
• "Philadelphia Nerd Nite" events are mentioned.
• A lecture on "What's Love Got To Do With It? Fertilization Imagery in the Art of Gustav Klimt, Frida Kahlo, and Diego Rivera" at the Wagner Free Institute of Science.
• A "Mega-Bad Movie Night!" featuring "The Lost World: Jurassic Park" at The Academy of Natural Sciences.
• A talk by Walter Isaacson on "Steve Jobs" at the Central Library.
• An "Urban Sustainability Forum" on "High Tunnels: A Sustainable Solution for Local Urban Agriculture" at The Academy of Natural Sciences.
• A discussion on "Ethics, Health Care, and Health Terminology: Where Are We Going and Where Should We Be Going?" by Professor Arthur Caplan.
• A lecture on "Turing's Cathedral: The Origins of the Digital Universe" by George Dyson.
• A "Brown Bag Lecture" by Joe Martin at the Chemical Heritage Foundation.
• A talk by Dr. John Gearhart on "Instructing our Cells to Rebuild our Bodies."
• A lecture on "Near-Field Cosmology" by Beth Willmann.
• A talk by Bonnie Bassler on an unspecified topic for "Science on Tap."

• Social Sciences and Humanities:
• A "Food & Thought" lecture by George M. Wohlreich on "Who Suicides, and Why?"
• A "Science on Tap" presentation by M. Susan Lindee on "Violence in the Laboratory: How Science Changed War and War Changed Science."
• A "Teacher Workshop" on "Political Reform in the Gilded Age" at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
• A "Food & Thought" lecture by Mark Kuperberg on "This Time It's Different? The Economics and Politics of the Great Recession."
• A talk by Alain de Botton on "Religion for Atheists: A Non-Believer's Guide to the Uses of Religion."
• A lecture on "The Ethics of Using Prisoners as Sources of Cadaver Organs" by Arthur L. Caplan.
• A "Town Square Program: Reimagining Urban Highways" panel discussion.
• A lecture by Elaine Pagels on "Revelations: Visions, Prophecy, and Politics in the Book of Revelation."
• A "Brown Bag Lecture" by Jeffrey Johnson discussing chemical education in Germany.
• A lecture by Barry Schwartz on "Practical Wisdom: The Right Way to Do the Right Thing."

PhACT Information:

The publication also includes information about PhACT itself, including membership details, donation requests for the High School Science Fair Student Prize Funds, and contact information for the PhACT Council 2011/12. It is noted that Phactum is distributed six times a year and serves as the main propaganda organ for PhACT.

Policy for Article Use:

Materials originating in Phactum may be reprinted by groups recognized in CSI's international network of skeptics organizations, provided the author and Philadelphia Association for Critical Thinking are credited. Other publications require permission from PhACT.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phactum revolve around the promotion of intellectual engagement, critical thinking, and public education through lectures, workshops, and discussions. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging informed discourse on a wide range of academic and societal topics, with a particular focus on events happening in the Philadelphia area. The publication actively promotes skepticism and critical analysis, as evidenced by its affiliation with CSI's international network of skeptics organizations and its policy on article use.