ULTIMATE COMPUTING - Quantum Consciousness Studies

24 Toward Ultimate Computing
Figure 1.10: Three dimensional computer simulation of a reaction-diffusion
system. A filamentous organizing center emanates “scroll ring” patterns. With
permission from Arthur Winfree.
Cytoplasmic microtubules and centrioles are organizing centers which could
behave like the singularities described by Winfree and Strogatz. Dynamic
activities of the cytoskeleton may release diffusing waves of calcium ions which
can alter the nature of surrounding cytoplasm by sol-gel transformations (Chapter
5). Coding by microtubule associated proteins (MAPs) and other factors could
result in reaction-diffusion patterns specific to the dynamic state of the organizing
center. Such patterns could suffice as short term memory in cells ranging from
simple protozoa to human brain neurons. Another type of interactive, 3
dimensional pattern with interesting properties is the hologram.
1.5.2 Holograms
The brain stores image files in a “distributed” manner which is resistant to
local damage and allows for correct retrieval even when variable cues or
addresses are presented. One explanation is that memory, learning and real time
cognitive functions are represented in the brain by interference patterns which are
the convergence of two or more wave trains: signal and reference information
sources (Hudspeth and Jones, 1975). Interference patterns can be dynamic,
expressive, ordered or chaotic; one example is the ocean surf as an interface and
monitor of the collective effects of wind, current, beach, tides, water bonds, etc.
Interference patterns are used in information and imaging technologies such as
interferometry, coherent processing, autocorrelation filtering, pattern recognition
and many others whose capabilities are limited by their coupling medium
(Dolgoff, 1975). All space in the universe is, as 17th century German philosopher
Leibniz said, “the result of harmonious coexistence of forces.” Consciousness as
well may be described as the dynamic coexistence of forces within the brain,
although the harmony may vary over time.