One technique that Jackson and colleagues use to harness brain signals is called functional near-infrared spectroscopy.

CNN: Brain-controlled devices may help paralyzed people

Using a combination of modern physics tools--including three-dimensional, high-resolution X-ray, radiocarbon dating with accelerator mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy--the researchers analysed the tooth to determine the age and composition of a resinous filling detected inside.

UNESCO: Basic Sciences