Here's another entry for the wiki that I managed to get inpiration for. Comments are more that welcome (a.k.a. HELP PLEASE).
Please note, I've written this as though it was just before the current freeze point of Helen Scott's birth.
In the unforgiving environments away from [[Earth], there is a heightened need for medical aid in those cases when unfortunate events happen to people. These environments add unusual elements that need to be considered, as does what [[Handwavium] allows to be created.
== Healthcare in Fenspace ==
For all that can happen in space, sometimes you need to get fixed up. Given the resource levels in Fenspace medical treatment can be an expensive proposition.
Or it would be, had the Fen not done something about it.
Faction membership, for all the seeming downsides to the individualist, comes with automatic health insurance. The Convention subsidises healthcare quite healthily, with faction dues including a small premium. All ''necessary'' (note the emphasis) medical procedures are apparently free. What really happens is that the doctor or institution doing the work takes your details and submits a bill to the associated faction, with additional subsidies allowing them to treat the non-aligned without impoverishing them to pay the medical bills.
All elective medical treatment is charged directly to the individual involved.
There are also pharmacies in the major enclaves which stock common drugs and small medical items like first-aid kits.
== Medical Technology ==
With the propensity of [[Handwavium] to try and prevent damage to life (The Slapstick Effect as it is commonly known), there is a large amount of technology available in the medical arena.
=== Diagnostic Technology ===
Rapid diagnosis of what is wrong is crucial to preventing what could be minor ailments from worsening. From the ever popular '''Tricorder''' (especially its medical variant), to examination beds filled with miniaturised MRI and X-Ray machines, to labs filled with blood analysis machines, to mundane items like thermometers and blood pressure cuffs... All the variants of diagnostic sensors are available.
Supplementing this is analysis software allowing the somewhat rough-and-ready medical personnel of Fenspace to quickly figure out what needs to be done.
=== Treatment Technology ===
Once you know what is wrong, you can fix it. '''Hyposprays''' use compressed air inject drugs without needles and for long term uses automated drug dispensers can be '''worn''', allowing patients to get up and about. ''Slap Patches'' let the medicines be absorbed through the skin, while '''Automed Bands''' (as used by Great Justice combat personnel) can deliver timed doses of a variety of drugs, or respond to events it senses.
For physical wounds we have ''Bandage Spray and Foam'' which dries quickly to seal and stop bleeding. It is also usually impregnated with the drug '''Quickheal'''. There are various dispensers for these 'liquid' bandages, including some that 'paint' strips that can be used to wrap body parts.
When surgery ''is'' required, the use of robotics is the norm. Using Augmented Reality systems tied into sensors the surgeon can see precisely what they need to do. The systems even allow remote control of systems like medically adapted '''Bush Robots''' and the portable '''Automed Pods''' which can handle many things on their own.
=== Support Technology ===
The technology most seen in this category are the medically-adapted Bush Robots mentioned before, used as nursing support. Things not usually seen are the integrated sterilisers on the robotic instruments, drug synthesisers, and the adaptive expert systems managing the facilities.
=== Drugs ===
Drugs are not normally thought of as technology, but they need to be created just like the rest of the items in this section. Given the sheer variety of pharmaceuticals available, only the most common will be covered below:
* '''Buzkil''' - This is the most common name for an anti-intoxicant drug normally used to counter alcohol and its attendant effects (including hangovers).
* '''Rad-X''' - This preventative drug helps deal with exposure to radiation.
* '''Gravnol''' - This drug prevents bone deterioration due to lack of gravity.
* '''Quickheal''' - This is actually a combination of 10 very similar drugs that promote healing and the immune system. The cocktail has some limits on its use, mainly because it can cause Biomods if taken in very high doses. The individual components are also used separately to greater effect in their focus than general Quickheal.
* '''Bugstomper''' - This is an extremely effective anti-bacterial and anti-viral. It also can be taken preventatively.
* '''Painaway''' - As indicated by its name, this drug suppresses pain for up to 8 hours without causing loss of feeling. Overuse can however can cause loss of feeling.
* '''Purge''' - The newest of the drugs on this list, Purge forces the body to get rid of foreign substances. This affects useful drugs as well as things like poisons. It is also the only drug known that can reduce Handwavium contamination, even if only by small amounts. The main problem of this drug is the risk of dehydration as it works.
==== Red Band Drugs ====
Most people will have seen version of drugs they know in containers with a prominent red band. This symbol indicates the drug (or other object, as this indicator has been adopted elsewhere) has a high Handwavium content. This boosts the effects of the drug, but has enough Handwavium content to Biomod a person. Thus Red Band drugs are normally only used by those who are already biomodded.
=== Cybertechnology ===
Even with the treatments available to the Fen, occasionally injuries can't be healed and a person loses an organ or limb. This being the Fen, a simple mundane prosthetic isn't good enough.
Although it is used in those cases where a replacement limb is required, most cybertechnology (known as '''Cyberware''') was developed for enhancements.
==== Cyberware grades ====
Because of its origins as an enhancement technology, cybertechnology is commonly assigned grades as to its quality and/or the quality needed for it to do its designed role. More mature cybernetics exist in multiple grades, as they become more manufacturable.
*'''Kludgeware''' (or ''Class 0'') - Pretty much what it sounds like, cybernetics put together out of scrap and 'Wave and more likely to biomod you than not. It's poor reputation means the owner doesn't get much sympathy, unless the operation was a lifesaver in poor conditions in which case the owner gets a rep boost because it means one of the BNF cyber-surgeons probably did it.
* '''Basicware''' (or ''Class 1'') - Cyberware of this grade is pretty much the standard for civilian medical treatment. It does the job well enough that most that get it are happy. Due to the fact Basicware is also produced in the 'Danelaw, it is virtually Handwavium free, and as such there is virtually no chance of an accidental biomod from Basicware.
* '''Alphaware''' (or ''Class 2'') - Higher quality cyberware, built with better tolerances. This means the devices can be enhanced somewhat, leading to it being standard for military medical treatmentThe enhancements are hard disabled by default in case of treating civilians in warzones.
* '''Betaware''' (or ''Class 3'') - The cyberware equivalent of a luxury car, built with very high quality parts and materials. They need to be ordered, allowing the customer to customise the items to various degrees. The surgeons basically construct the device during surgery to better fit the customer. One of the downsides of being known as having Betaware is the assumption you are someone dangerous, as most Betaware users tend to be in the 'Security' businessOr that you had enough money to buy it and get a BNF Cyber-Doc to put it in. This could get you into trouble.
* '''Deltawear''' (or ''Class 4'') - Cyberware of this grade is utterly bespoke. It is custom made to the user's specifications, and woven into the subject's body to make it as much a part of it as the rest of him. The technologies involved are always cutting-edge, and use the highest quality materials. Deltaware grade cyberware almost always requires a top cyber-surgeon (usually a BNF) and/or a lot of resources to afford the cyberware.
* '''Edgeware''' (or ''Class 5'') - If Deltaware is cyberware's equivalent of Supercars, Edgeware is the secret military project that goes past the bleeding edge (hence its name). And good luck finding it, as those who have it tend to be a bit paranoid about revealing it.
==== Cyborg Classifications ====
Based on the amount of cyberware in an individual, there are four classification levels used:
* '''Medical''' - This classification is for those who have received cybernetics for medical reasons. Medical cybernetics do not ''normally'' (see the entry on Alphaware above) enhance the individual who receives them. The cybernetics used are considered prosthetics.
* '''Partial''' - Technically, any cybernetic implantation makes one a partial cyborg. In general, any cybernetic enhancement replacing between 5 and 30% of the body (or not more than one limb) makes one a partial cyborg.
* '''Active''' - An active cyborg has between 30 and 50% of the body replaced.
* '''Full''' - A full cyborg has between 50 and 75% of the body replaced, not including the central nervous system and brain.
* '''Total''' - A total cyborg has greater than 75% of the body replaced with cybernetics, or otherwise classifies as a Full cyborg with significant nervous system and/or brain work done.
=== Biotechnology ===
Under the heading of biotechnology, there are two sub-categories, '''Genetic Engineering''' and '''Tissue Engineering'''.
==== Genetic Engineering ====
Genetic Engineering is an infant science in the medical arena. While its use on insects and non-sapient animals has been done, its use in Humans is one of the few areas the [[Fenspace Convention] regulates strongly. As such, there are no available treatments in Fenspace.
==== Tissue Engineering ====
The newest technology in the medical spectrum, Tissue Engineering is mostly involved in the artificial growth of compatible (mostly cloned) organs to replace missing or damaged versions.
You may ask yourself, why get cybered up if they can grow you a new arm? Two factors explain the majority of this.
The first is that ever present bane of our lives, time. Even with the fastest fast-growth techniques, getting a typical clone grown to adulthood takes about two weeks. Then you have to get used to the implant, which can take upwards of a month depending on various factors. For implanted limbs there is also conditioning the new limb and reconditioning your body after all the time out. With cyberware, all it takes is the operation and healing, and you're technically ready to go.
Second is cost. Simply put, a body is biomass. It needs input to grow, and effort to maintain. A clone is a significant investment in time and effort, and then it's used to patch someone together again. While a large portion of the cost is offset by 'recycling'There's euphemism if ever there was one. the remainder back to useful materials, it's still roughly three times the average cost of good quality cyberware.
As such cyberware is the preferred option for emergency departments and military doctors.
Still, there are a few people and biomods that cannot take cybernetic replacements and there are those who do not ''want'' cyberware. As such biotech fills a need.
=== Nanotechnology ===
Nanotechnology has not ''offically'' been developed in Fenspace, although there are several groups researching it.
As such, there is no medical nanotech in Fenspace.
=== Biomodification ===
''Main article: [[Biomodification]''
By the strictest definition, Biomodification should be listed under Biotechnology. However, the most common involves the use of [[Handwavium] to induce a mutagenic change in a person. The one fact that makes this a medical technique is that (given no existing biomod) it will '''always''' save the life of the modeé.
While in general this can only happen once per person, there have been developed two methods of getting around that limit.
* '''Bio-molding''' - Based on techniques used by the [[Catgirling Machine], this is the application of a specific template to a person to achieve a predictable effect. There are however several downsides, including limits on how often the process can be used on an individual and the sheer amount of [[Handwavium|handwavium] the person has in their body.
* '''Re-modding''' - An experimental technique with a high degree of risk, re-modding actually ''restarts'' the biomodding process in a person and attempts to change the existent biomod. Needless to say, this is only used as an emergency technique in medical use.
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Lack of Neural interfaces ===
There are plenty of 'Waveborgs out there with built in radios attached to their brains, so why hasn't a neural interface been introduced? The main reason is that current techniques in brain surgery are still too coarse in general to do it without too much other damage to the brain. This hasn't stopped research into this technology.
However, there is one time such surgery is done. For a Total Cyborg Conversion.
When a cyborg reaches the 80% mark (the value is a rough estimate, based on the nature of the cyborg's current enhancements and the skill of the surgeons who have worked on them), the remaining meat becomes crucial to keeping the brain stable (through various hormones and such). While it's possible to replace said meat with tech to maintain the balance, it's tricky and the tech is delicate.
The alternate option is to start manipulating the brain to reduce the dependence on said hormones for stability, and if one was going to do that why not go all the way?
Total Cyborgs are not as rare as one might think. Most are either 'Waveborgs (born via biomod), or single successes (nicknamed Lone Stars) from various cyber-docs or techs who rarely get a second.
However, there are very few places in Fenspace that can consistently do total cyborgs, and if they aren't one of the above types the conversions could only have been done in one of eight places. These are the '''Delta clinics'''.
Of the Delta clinics, only six remain in operation. One belonged to the Lin Kuei, and was taken out towards the end of the Boskone WarThere is only a mention of '...a quick response team...' pulling this off, so nobody knows who did it.. The other belonged to Greg Sanders, and he was 'put down' by [[A.C. Peters|A.C.] herself when he went over the edge. The remainder of his team either died in Greg's madness or ended up in Azkaban.
The remaining six (and their lead surgeon) are:
* '''Kandor City Hospital'''
: ''Location:'' [[Kandor City], [[Luna]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Michael Groves a.k.a Metal Mickey
:The most well-funded Delta clinic in Fenspace, and certainly in the top three for numbers of procedures done.
* '''Ares Medical'''
: ''Location:'' [[Noctis Labyrinthus], [[Mars]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Tsu Ann Spengler
: Being in the heart of the [[Panzer Kunst Gruppe], Ares Medical probably does the lion's share of conversions in Fenspace.
* '''[[Vesta Institute of Robotics]'''
: ''Location:'' Novyi Petrovichi, [[4 Vesta | Vesta], [[The Main Belt]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Professor David Starr
: With the help of their sister institute, VIR has established a reputation of good methodical work and helping 'Waveborgs understand themselves.
* '''Phobos Medical Centre'''
: ''Location:'' [[Port Phobos], [[Phobos], [[Mars]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Sarah Connor
: With it dealing with the largest port in Fenspace, the Phobos Medical Center has some quite skilled if overworked cyber-surgeons found in the Black. This doesn't stop Dr Connor from trying her best to get more customers to Phobos.
* '''[[Prometheus Forge]'''
: ''Location:'' [[The Main Belt]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' [[A.C. Peters]
: As one of the founding lights of modern cybernetics, A.C. is regarded as one of the best when it comes to creating, implanting, or analysing cybernetics.Being a [[Mad] helps a lot as well.
* '''[[Sol Bianca]'''
: ''Location:'' Wherever [[The Professor] wants.
: ''Head Surgeon:'' [[The Professor]
: Being the definitive [[Mad] in Fenspace, The Professor has the facilities to perform total cyborg conversions and is known to have done so at least three times.
== Notes ==
[[Category:Fen Technology]
Cobalt Greywalker Wrote:Here's another entry for the wiki that I managed to get inpiration for. Comments are more that welcome (a.k.a. HELP PLEASE).
Please note, I've written this as though it was just before the current freeze point of Helen Scott's birth.
So its a "Fenspace medtech 2015" one... sounds fine, lets see.
Quote:
In the unforgiving environments away from [[Earth], there is a heightened need for medical aid in those cases when unfortunate events happen to people. These environments add unusual elements that need to be considered, as does what [[Handwavium] allows to be created.
== Healthcare in Fenspace ==
For all that can happen in space, sometimes you need to get fixed up. Given the resource levels in Fenspace medical treatment can be an expensive proposition.
Or it would be, had the Fen not done something about it.
Faction membership, for all the seeming downsides to the individualist, comes with automatic health insurance. The Convention subsidises healthcare quite healthily, with faction dues including a small premium. All ''necessary'' (note the emphasis) medical procedures are apparently free. What really happens is that the doctor or institution doing the work takes your details and submits a bill to the associated faction, with additional subsidies allowing them to treat the non-aligned without impoverishing them to pay the medical bills.
All elective medical treatment is charged directly to the individual involved.
There are also pharmacies in the major enclaves which stock common drugs and small medical items like first-aid kits.
== Medical Technology ==
With the propensity of [[Handwavium] to try and prevent damage to life (The Slapstick Effect as it is commonly known), there is a large amount of technology available in the medical arena.
I agree, the slapstick effect should be not that difficult to handle in medical tech than weapon/engine one.
Quote:=== Diagnostic Technology ===
Rapid diagnosis of what is wrong is crucial to preventing what could be minor ailments from worsening. From the ever popular '''Tricorder''' (especially its medical variant), to examination beds filled with miniaturised MRI and X-Ray machines, to labs filled with blood analysis machines, to mundane items like thermometers and blood pressure cuffs... All the variants of diagnostic sensors are available.
Supplementing this is analysis software allowing the somewhat rough-and-ready medical personnel of Fenspace to quickly figure out what needs to be done.
I would not be surprised about a lot of holo-tech to display three dimensional sensor images of a human body to make diagnosis easier. Easier to use when discussing things with multiple people than augmented reality.
Quote:=== Treatment Technology ===
Once you know what is wrong, you can fix it. '''Hyposprays''' use compressed air inject drugs without needles and for long term uses automated drug dispensers can be '''worn''', allowing patients to get up and about. ''Slap Patches'' let the medicines be absorbed through the skin, while '''Automed Bands''' (as used by Great Justice combat personnel) can deliver timed doses of a variety of drugs, or respond to events it senses.
Maybe an additional comment that civil variants of the "Automed Bands" are only a question of time now that the Boskonian War is over?
Quote:For physical wounds we have ''Bandage Spray and Foam'' which dries quickly to seal and stop bleeding. It is also usually impregnated with the drug '''Quickheal'''. There are various dispensers for these 'liquid' bandages, including some that 'paint' strips that can be used to wrap body parts.
When surgery ''is'' required, the use of robotics is the norm. Using Augmented Reality systems tied into sensors the surgeon can see precisely what they need to do. The systems even allow remote control of systems like medically adapted '''Bush Robots''' and the portable '''Automed Pods''' which can handle many things on their own.
The good thing is you can tell a robot before the operation what kind of stuff it must NOT touch, which can help preventing mistakes during the operation.
Quote:=== Support Technology ===
The technology most seen in this category are the medically-adapted Bush Robots mentioned before, used as nursing support. Things not usually seen are the integrated sterilisers on the robotic instruments, drug synthesisers, and the adaptive expert systems managing the facilities.
=== Drugs ===
Drugs are not normally thought of as technology, but they need to be created just like the rest of the items in this section. Given the sheer variety of pharmaceuticals available, only the most common will be covered below:
* '''Buzkil''' - This is the most common name for an anti-intoxicant drug normally used to counter alcohol and its attendant effects (including hangovers).
* '''Rad-X''' - This preventative drug helps deal with exposure to radiation.
* '''Gravnol''' - This drug prevents bone deterioration due to lack of gravity.
* '''Quickheal''' - This is actually a combination of 10 very similar drugs that promote healing and the immune system. The cocktail has some limits on its use, mainly because it can cause Biomods if taken in very high doses. The individual components are also used separately to greater effect in their focus than general Quickheal.
* '''Bugstomper''' - This is an extremely effective anti-bacterial and anti-viral. It also can be taken preventatively.
* '''Painaway''' - As indicated by its name, this drug suppresses pain for up to 8 hours without causing loss of feeling. Overuse can however can cause loss of feeling.
* '''Purge''' - The newest of the drugs on this list, Purge forces the body to get rid of foreign substances. This affects useful drugs as well as things like poisons. It is also the only drug known that can reduce Handwavium contamination, even if only by small amounts. The main problem of this drug is the risk of dehydration as it works.
Purge sounds like something that will stay a little bit rare and expensive to make for a while... I wonder who has the "how to make it" plans for it.
Quote:==== Red Band Drugs ====
Most people will have seen version of drugs they know in containers with a prominent red band. This symbol indicates the drug (or other object, as this indicator has been adopted elsewhere) has a high Handwavium content. This boosts the effects of the drug, but has enough Handwavium content to Biomod a person. Thus Red Band drugs are normally only used by those who are already biomodded.
Maybe some automatic drug dispensers can sense a "non modded" person and block automatically if you put in the wrong drugs?
Quote:=== Cybertechnology ===
Even with the treatments available to the Fen, occasionally injuries can't be healed and a person loses an organ or limb. This being the Fen, a simple mundane prosthetic isn't good enough.
Although it is used in those cases where a replacement limb is required, most cybertechnology (known as '''Cyberware''') was developed for enhancements.
==== Cyberware grades ====
Because of its origins as an enhancement technology, cybertechnology is commonly assigned grades as to its quality and/or the quality needed for it to do its designed role. More mature cybernetics exist in multiple grades, as they become more manufacturable.
*'''Kludgeware''' (or ''Class 0'') - Pretty much what it sounds like, cybernetics put together out of scrap and 'Wave and more likely to biomod you than not. It's poor reputation means the owner doesn't get much sympathy, unless the operation was a lifesaver in poor conditions in which case the owner gets a rep boost because it means one of the BNF cyber-surgeons probably did it.
* '''Basicware''' (or ''Class 1'') - Cyberware of this grade is pretty much the standard for civilian medical treatment. It does the job well enough that most that get it are happy. Due to the fact Basicware is also produced in the 'Danelaw, it is virtually Handwavium free, and as such there is virtually no chance of an accidental biomod from Basicware.
* '''Alphaware''' (or ''Class 2'') - Higher quality cyberware, built with better tolerances. This means the devices can be enhanced somewhat, leading to it being standard for military medical treatmentThe enhancements are hard disabled by default in case of treating civilians in warzones.
* '''Betaware''' (or ''Class 3'') - The cyberware equivalent of a luxury car, built with very high quality parts and materials. They need to be ordered, allowing the customer to customise the items to various degrees. The surgeons basically construct the device during surgery to better fit the customer. One of the downsides of being known as having Betaware is the assumption you are someone dangerous, as most Betaware users tend to be in the 'Security' businessOr that you had enough money to buy it and get a BNF Cyber-Doc to put it in. This could get you into trouble.
* '''Deltawear''' (or ''Class 4'') - Cyberware of this grade is utterly bespoke. It is custom made to the user's specifications, and woven into the subject's body to make it as much a part of it as the rest of him. The technologies involved are always cutting-edge, and use the highest quality materials. Deltaware grade cyberware almost always requires a top cyber-surgeon (usually a BNF) and/or a lot of resources to afford the cyberware.
* '''Edgeware''' (or ''Class 5'') - If Deltaware is cyberware's equivalent of Supercars, Edgeware is the secret military project that goes past the bleeding edge (hence its name). And good luck finding it, as those who have it tend to be a bit paranoid about revealing it.
I see someone likes Shadowrun.
But you should explain what BNF is... "Backus–Naur Form cyber surgeon" sounds strange.
Quote:==== Cyborg Classifications ====
Based on the amount of cyberware in an individual, there are four classification levels used:
* '''Medical''' - This classification is for those who have received cybernetics for medical reasons. Medical cybernetics do not ''normally'' (see the entry on Alphaware above) enhance the individual who receives them. The cybernetics used are considered prosthetics.
* '''Partial''' - Technically, any cybernetic implantation makes one a partial cyborg. In general, any cybernetic enhancement replacing between 5 and 30% of the body (or not more than one limb) makes one a partial cyborg.
* '''Active''' - An active cyborg has between 30 and 50% of the body replaced.
* '''Full''' - A full cyborg has between 50 and 75% of the body replaced, not including the central nervous system and brain.
* '''Total''' - A total cyborg has greater than 75% of the body replaced with cybernetics, or otherwise classifies as a Full cyborg with significant nervous system and/or brain work done.
=== Biotechnology ===
Under the heading of biotechnology, there are two sub-categories, '''Genetic Engineering''' and '''Tissue Engineering'''.
==== Genetic Engineering ====
Genetic Engineering is an infant science in the medical arena. While its use on insects and non-sapient animals has been done, its use in Humans is one of the few areas the [[Fenspace Convention] regulates strongly. As such, there are no available treatments in Fenspace.
Still there might be rumors that some Mads are working on it. ^^
Quote:==== Tissue Engineering ====
The newest technology in the medical spectrum, Tissue Engineering is mostly involved in the artificial growth of compatible (mostly cloned) organs to replace missing or damaged versions.
You may ask yourself, why get cybered up if they can grow you a new arm? Two factors explain the majority of this.
The first is that ever present bane of our lives, time. Even with the fastest fast-growth techniques, getting a typical clone grown to adulthood takes about two weeks. Then you have to get used to the implant, which can take upwards of a month depending on various factors. For implanted limbs there is also conditioning the new limb and reconditioning your body after all the time out. With cyberware, all it takes is the operation and healing, and you're technically ready to go.
Second is cost. Simply put, a body is biomass. It needs input to grow, and effort to maintain. A clone is a significant investment in time and effort, and then it's used to patch someone together again. While a large portion of the cost is offset by 'recycling'There's euphemism if ever there was one. the remainder back to useful materials, it's still roughly three times the average cost of good quality cyberware.
As such cyberware is the preferred option for emergency departments and military doctors.
I think even in Fenspace biological things will be more flexible, but cyberware of the same kind can be more specialized and more powerful in its specific area.
Quote:Still, there are a few people and biomods that cannot take cybernetic replacements and there are those who do not ''want'' cyberware. As such biotech fills a need.
=== Nanotechnology ===
Nanotechnology has not ''offically'' been developed in Fenspace, although there are several groups researching it.
As such, there is no medical nanotech in Fenspace.
=== Biomodification ===
''Main article: [[Biomodification]''
By the strictest definition, Biomodification should be listed under Biotechnology. However, the most common involves the use of [[Handwavium] to induce a mutagenic change in a person. The one fact that makes this a medical technique is that (given no existing biomod) it will '''always''' save the life of the modeé.
While in general this can only happen once per person, there have been developed two methods of getting around that limit.
* '''Bio-molding''' - Based on techniques used by the [[Catgirling Machine], this is the application of a specific template to a person to achieve a predictable effect. There are however several downsides, including limits on how often the process can be used on an individual and the sheer amount of [[Handwavium|handwavium] the person has in their body.
* '''Re-modding''' - An experimental technique with a high degree of risk, re-modding actually ''restarts'' the biomodding process in a person and attempts to change the existent biomod. Needless to say, this is only used as an emergency technique in medical use.
Quote:== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Lack of Neural interfaces ===
There are plenty of 'Waveborgs out there with built in radios attached to their brains, so why hasn't a neural interface been introduced? The main reason is that current techniques in brain surgery are still too coarse in general to do it without too much other damage to the brain. This hasn't stopped research into this technology.
Giving NEW data to the brain is always more difficult than just overlaying an existing one with some KoFen or similar AR/VR equipment.
Quote:However, there is one time such surgery is done. For a Total Cyborg Conversion.
When a cyborg reaches the 80% mark (the value is a rough estimate, based on the nature of the cyborg's current enhancements and the skill of the surgeons who have worked on them), the remaining meat becomes crucial to keeping the brain stable (through various hormones and such). While it's possible to replace said meat with tech to maintain the balance, it's tricky and the tech is delicate.
The alternate option is to start manipulating the brain to reduce the dependence on said hormones for stability, and if one was going to do that why not go all the way?
Total Cyborgs are not as rare as one might think. Most are either 'Waveborgs (born via biomod), or single successes (nicknamed Lone Stars) from various cyber-docs or techs who rarely get a second.
However, there are very few places in Fenspace that can consistently do total cyborgs, and if they aren't one of the above types the conversions could only have been done in one of eight places. These are the '''Delta clinics'''.
Of the Delta clinics, only six remain in operation. One belonged to the Lin Kuei, and was taken out towards the end of the Boskone WarThere is only a mention of '...a quick response team...' pulling this off, so nobody knows who did it.. The other belonged to Greg Sanders, and he was 'put down' by [[A.C. Peters|A.C.] herself when he went over the edge. The remainder of his team either died in Greg's madness or ended up in Azkaban.
But there is no guarantee that there will not be new ones.
Quote:The remaining six (and their lead surgeon) are:
* '''Kandor City Hospital'''
: ''Location:'' [[Kandor City], [[Luna]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Michael Groves a.k.a Metal Mickey
:The most well-funded Delta clinic in Fenspace, and certainly in the top three for numbers of procedures done.
* '''Ares Medical'''
: ''Location:'' [[Noctis Labyrinthus], [[Mars]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Tsu Ann Spengler
: Being in the heart of the [[Panzer Kunst Gruppe], Ares Medical probably does the lion's share of conversions in Fenspace.
* '''[[Vesta Institute of Robotics]'''
: ''Location:'' Novyi Petrovichi, [[4 Vesta | Vesta], [[The Main Belt]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Professor David Starr
: With the help of their sister institute, VIR has established a reputation of good methodical work and helping 'Waveborgs understand themselves.
* '''Phobos Medical Centre'''
: ''Location:'' [[Port Phobos], [[Phobos], [[Mars]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Sarah Connor
: With it dealing with the largest port in Fenspace, the Phobos Medical Center has some quite skilled if overworked cyber-surgeons found in the Black. This doesn't stop Dr Connor from trying her best to get more customers to Phobos.
* '''[[Prometheus Forge]'''
: ''Location:'' [[The Main Belt]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' [[A.C. Peters]
: As one of the founding lights of modern cybernetics, A.C. is regarded as one of the best when it comes to creating, implanting, or analysing cybernetics.Being a [[Mad] helps a lot as well.
* '''[[Sol Bianca]'''
: ''Location:'' Wherever [[The Professor] wants.
: ''Head Surgeon:'' [[The Professor]
: Being the definitive [[Mad] in Fenspace, The Professor has the facilities to perform total cyborg conversions and is known to have done so at least three times.
== Notes ==
[[Category:Fen Technology]
Reads fine for me.
Maybe we should call accidental cyber's "Oopsware"...
One thing new cyber's quickly learn is a problem is that, unlike ordinary meat, they're shiny new hardware requires regular maintenance and support. A fair reason for someone to pay the extra for a vat-grown arm then, if they consider the maintenance and upgrade costs over the lifetime of the limb. Flesh and blood has the advantage of generally being self-repairing and maintaining.
Although, thinking about what your average OGJ trooper might carry in their personal medkit. 2 applications of Spray on Bandages. 2 standard sterile bandages. Antispetic spray. Sterile gloves. Drug autoinjectors designed for self administration, one loaded with a single-shot mix of Quickheal and Painaway, and another colour coded neon-green loaded with a shot of low-quirk handwavium. The specific strain and expected effects depends on the kit's origin. (A common one would be Senshi strain, because beyond one obvious quirk, the end result is usually extremely stable)
The contents are often modified by individual for their own unique personal needs, or desires. Many replace the standard wave-injector with one containing a different strain of their own choice.
I can't recall what actual soldiers would carry on themselves, but it's probably some variation on that, contained in a vacuum-sealed pack.
________________________________
--m(^0^)m-- Wot, no sig?
Cobalt Greywalker Wrote:All elective medical treatment is charged directly to the individual involved.
Although a very few factions with plentiful resources (such as the Trekkies and StellviaCorp) or a deep respect for their fellow faction members (such as the VVS) subsidize elective health-care as well, either partially or completely.
Cobalt Greywalker Wrote:Most people will have seen version of drugs they know in containers with a prominent red band.
Since a small but noticeable fraction of Fen (including 0.5% of unmodded human males and a large percentage of Furries) are red-green colour-blind, these drugs are also labeled with other warning symbols.
HRogge Wrote:Purge sounds like something that will stay a little bit rare and expensive to make for a while... I wonder who has the "how to make it" plans for it.
Given the timing of its introduction, I wouldn't be surprised if The Girls included the formula for Purge in the Whole Fenspace Catalog.
HRogge Wrote:But you should explain what BNF is... "Backus–Naur Form cyber surgeon" sounds strange.
Agreed. I was thinking the usual Fenspace meaning: "Big-Name Fan".
--
Rob Kelk
"Governments have no right to question the loyalty of those who oppose
them. Adversaries remain citizens of the same state, common subjects of
the same sovereign, servants of the same law."
- Michael Ignatieff, addressing Stanford University in 2012
robkelk Wrote:Quote:Most people will have seen version of drugs they know in containers with a prominent red band.
Since a small but noticeable fraction of Fen (including 0.5% of unmodded human males and a large percentage of Furries) are red-green colour-blind, these drugs are also labeled with other warning symbols.
Good idea...
Memo to myself, make CI to have an additional locker for some unwaved medcine on Jenga/LBBL.
Quote:Given the timing of its introduction, I wouldn't be surprised if The Girls included the formula for Purge in the Whole Fenspace Catalog.
More open source tech. I like that.
Quote:Quote:But you should explain what BNF is... "Backus–Naur Form cyber surgeon" sounds strange.
Agreed. I was thinking the usual Fenspace meaning: "Big-Name Fan".
I wonder if some of them are also called BHF (Big-Head-Fan)?
Whooo... Lots to answer here.
HRogge Wrote:So its a "Fenspace medtech 2015" one... sounds fine, lets see.
Technically late 2014 actually.
HRogge Wrote:I agree, the slapstick effect should be not that difficult to handle in medical tech than weapon/engine one.
I'm kinda surprised no-one pointed out the lack of Trekkie tools, which I hadn't included due to lack of inspiration in that area.
HRogge Wrote:Maybe an additional comment that civil variants of the "Automed Bands" are only a question of time now that the Boskonian War is over?
Yeah, I'll add something to that effect. The military ones have a few extras, like hooking into wrist-coms to indicate activation and such (and someone quickly wrote a little app for the coms to react to certain muscle movements as a hands-free trigger for them). There is also an emergency, last resort sealed reservoir (as in, you'd destroy the band and the drug trying to get at it) of an otherwise banned drug in it.
HRogge Wrote:Maybe some automatic drug dispensers can sense a "non modded" person and block automatically if you put in the wrong drugs?
If they can mount a taster along with it yes.
HRogge Wrote:I see someone likes Shadowrun.
But you should explain what BNF is... "Backus–Naur Form cyber surgeon" sounds strange.
It wasn't obvious was it?
Honestly, I can easily see the Cybers taking the grades from there.
As to BNFs, I've added a link to the glossery to it in the source doc.
HRogge Wrote:Still there might be rumors that some Mads are working on it. ^^
I didn't think the paragraph indicated that
nobody was working on it, as even Leda Scott-Swansen has done genetically modified insects, but that the Convention has restricted it.
Dartz Wrote:Maybe we should call accidental cyber's "Oopsware"...
<SNORT/>
Dartz Wrote:One thing new cyber's quickly learn is a problem is that, unlike ordinary meat, they're shiny new hardware requires regular maintenance and support. A fair reason for someone to pay the extra for a vat-grown arm then, if they consider the maintenance and upgrade costs over the lifetime of the limb. Flesh and blood has the advantage of generally being self-repairing and maintaining.
True enough, but it depends on who made/installed the cyberware. A.C.'s generally got those problems licked for androids, and what is an android but a bunch of cyberware without the meat? (This is one of the reasons Noah went to A.C. for the original chassis used by his (Noah's) daughters.)
Sure there's less space but it can reduce maintenance checks to roughtly yearly (baring accidents and warnings from the inbuild diagnostics).
RE: Standard OGJ medkit - I also have plenty of ideas in this area. Probably needs its own thread though.
Rob, I've added your bits to my working doc.
robkelk Wrote:Given the timing of its (Purge's) introduction, I wouldn't be surprised if The Girls included the formula for Purge in the Whole Fenspace Catalog.
Pretty much, but Andy mixed it with some of his anti-thionite drug the Forge Crew was working on (given Noah's state at the end of LoGG chapter 3), and Leonard mixed with some wave and some of Greenpeace's medicinal plants (those that act as laxitives).
Yeah, a single dose will have you sweating like a pig and vomiting to get rid of things, and wanting to find a toilet. It gets worse from there.
I like the sound of "Oopsware".
Overall looks good, but I think there's a couple things missing from it that should probably get their own sections: one, medical supplies/equipment from the Danelaw (someone must be importing band-aids and neosporin); and two, the effect of the Whole Fenspace Catalog on medical technology. (Presumably that would have been one of the first sections of the Catalog to be released.) I think also a list a common diseases and conditions suffered by Fen should be part of this (not the least of which would be all manner of dietary problems like rickets and scurvy, with a cross reference to the Vitamin Man).
-- Bob
---------
Then the horns kicked in...
...and my shoes began to squeak.
Anemia (lack of suitable protein), respiratory issues (from inadequate atmosphere filtration and scrubbing), faster passing of airborne diseases (again, inadequate atmosphere filtration, combined with the closed environmental systems), not to mention the serious issue of getting help quickly when something goes horribly wrong, either through accident or a pre-existing health condition.
--
"You know how parents tell you everything's going to fine, but you know they're lying to make you feel better? Everything's going to be fine." - The Doctor
Mm. Yes, high population/exchange zones like earth orbit would be especially susceptible to colds and flus, wouldn't they?
-- Bob
---------
Then the horns kicked in...
...and my shoes began to squeak.
Highly communicable in an enclosed environment like, say, -any- space habitat, yes.
And I agree, "oopsware" is a cool name.
I suspect the nerve linkages required for decent medical-grade cybernetics are going to be one of our big early exports to daneside, as soon as that tech is figured out. It's the sort of thing I can see somebody like AC or The Professor trying to patent before the TSAB beats them to it.
A lot of the big locations should add sections on what sort of medical care is available there... Stellvia probably has a full-stocked hospital, Grover's Corners might have a small clinic... I can see Greenwood having a lot of experience in helping folk rebuild after mining accidents -- probably only generally deals in alpha and beta level 'ware, but has a very good therapy/rehab division for recovery afterwards.
--
Sucrose Octanitrate.
Proof positive that with sufficient motivation, you can make
anything explode.
ECSNorway Wrote:And I agree, "oopsware" is a cool name.
Yes, it is *G*
Quote:I suspect the nerve linkages required for decent medical-grade cybernetics are going to be one of our big early exports to daneside, as soon as that tech is figured out. It's the sort of thing I can see somebody like AC or The Professor trying to patent before the TSAB beats them to it.
Unlikely...
Getting a worldwide patent on something is expensive and depends on a lot of lawyers. Better open source the basics, so that no one can patent it anymore if you fear that the TSAB will be close to cracking it.
And I just had a horrible thought. Handwavium + diseases? I'm sure some of the Boskone beat me to it.... but that's rather unsettling.
Unless things get a little Red Dwarf-ey with 'positive viruses' that actually help the infectee somehow.
________________________________
--m(^0^)m-- Wot, no sig?
The Slapstick Effect should prevent biomodded diseases. Depending on how far we want to push it, it may even do the Red Dwarf thing.
And as I typed that I had the image of a Boskonian biolab attempting to mod up a plague, and repeatedly getting something that turns Boskonians -- and only Boskonians -- bright pink.
-- Bob
---------
Then the horns kicked in...
...and my shoes began to squeak.
"Well, we've managed to get something that can Catgirl people without needing a tank, but... there's a problem."
"What sort of problem?"
"It doesn't work on anyone we captured. However, everyone who tried to administer it to them has been catgirled. And they all have the symptoms of fleas, but no fleas."
--
"You know how parents tell you everything's going to fine, but you know they're lying to make you feel better? Everything's going to be fine." - The Doctor
HRogge Wrote:Unlikely...
Getting a worldwide patent on something is expensive and depends on a lot of lawyers. Better open source the basics, so that no one can patent it anymore if you fear that the TSAB will be close to cracking it.
This is why we have Helios Holdings (Galactic), as run by
http://www.fenspace.net/index.php5?titl ... _Ferdinand]Fred "Full Byte" Ferdinand. A.C. and others had various cybernetics designs going through clinical trials (due to end late 2013) as noted in
http://www.fenspace.net/index.php5?titl ... hed_dreams]this story.
OK, I've added some more based on comments here to my source doc. Any comments on other ailments the Fen encounter (Red Dwarf positive viruses? Rainbow hair infections?). Any thoughts on other tech (Trekkie dermal regerators? Should I mine Memory Alpha for suggestions)? The EMH will be covered.
Custom Biomods are going to be an "I WANT" thing for a lot of people, if only for cosmetic reasons. So naturally they're going to be difficult, this is already established.
Temporary, cosmetic prosthetics that nevertheless actually function (Andorian antennae, for example) will be popular once they're worked out. (The implications of this regarding The Oldest Profession are left as an exercise for the reader.)
--
Sucrose Octanitrate.
Proof positive that with sufficient motivation, you can make
anything explode.
Cobalt Greywalker Wrote:This is why we have Helios Holdings (Galactic), as run by http://www.fenspace.net/index.php5?titl ... _Ferdinand]Fred "Full Byte" Ferdinand. A.C. and others had various cybernetics designs going through clinical trials (due to end late 2013) as noted in http://www.fenspace.net/index.php5?titl ... hed_dreams]this story.
I wonder if some companies from the US will try to fight this patents. *G*
Quote:OK, I've added some more based on comments here to my source doc. Any comments on other ailments the Fen encounter (Red Dwarf positive viruses? Rainbow hair infections?). Any thoughts on other tech (Trekkie dermal regerators? Should I mine Memory Alpha for suggestions)? The EMH will be covered.
"Medical tricorder" as a diagnosis device? (waved Smartphone with attached salt shaker)
ECSNorway Wrote:Custom Biomods are going to be an "I WANT" thing for a lot of people, if only for cosmetic reasons. So naturally they're going to be difficult, this is already established.
Temporary, cosmetic prosthetics that nevertheless actually function (Andorian antennae, for example) will be popular once they're worked out. (The implications of this regarding The Oldest Profession are left as an exercise for the reader.)
Part of that is VF's domain, as he created "working" catgirl ears and a tail for a 'Dane soap opera.
''We don't just borrow words; on occasion, English has pursued other languages down alleyways to beat
them unconscious and rifle their pockets for new vocabulary.''
-- James Nicoll
Foxboy Wrote:ECSNorway Wrote:Custom Biomods are going to be an "I WANT" thing for a lot of people, if only for cosmetic reasons. So naturally they're going to be difficult, this is already established.
Temporary, cosmetic prosthetics that nevertheless actually function (Andorian antennae, for example) will be popular once they're worked out. (The implications of this regarding The Oldest Profession are left as an exercise for the reader.)
Part of that is VF's domain, as he created "working" catgirl ears and a tail for a 'Dane soap opera.
Depends on how 'working' he means. I'm talking 'full sensory feedback' here. As in, if someone touches the catgirl ear, you can feel it; you can hear with it, etc.
--
Sucrose Octanitrate.
Proof positive that with sufficient motivation, you can make
anything explode.
OK, here's the updated entry. Further comments appreciated.
In the unforgiving environments away from [[Earth], there is a heightened need for medical aid in those cases when unfortunate events happen to people. These environments add unusual elements that need to be considered, as does what [[Handwavium] allows to be created.
== Healthcare in Fenspace ==
For all that can happen in space, sometimes you need to get fixed up. Given the resource levels in Fenspace medical treatment can be an expensive proposition.
Or it would be, had the Fen not done something about it.
Faction membership, for all the seeming downsides to the individualist, comes with automatic health insurance. The Convention subsidises healthcare quite healthily, with faction dues including a small premium. All ''necessary'' (note the emphasis) medical procedures are apparently free. What really happens is that the doctor or institution doing the work takes your details and submits a bill to the associated faction, with additional subsidies allowing them to treat the non-aligned without impoverishing them to pay the medical bills.
All elective medical treatment is charged directly to the individual involved. (Although a very few factions with plentiful resources (such as the [[Trekkies] and [[Stellvia Corporation|StellviaCorp]) or a deep respect for their fellow faction members (such as the [[Soviet Air Force|VVS]) subsidize elective health-care as well, either partially or completely.)
There are also pharmacies in the major enclaves which stock common drugs and small medical items like first-aid kits. While many home-grown alternatives exist, the majority of stock in pharmacies involves imported items like aspirin, vitaminsFor those who don't get the [[Vitamin Man] stopping by., and self-adhesive plasters.
== Common Aliments ==
Due to the environment and typical diet the Fen have, they are subject to certain common problems and diseases. The primary ailments the Fen suffer from are:
* '''Communicable diseases''', normally colds and flus, due to improper air filtration in the closed environments of space.
* '''Respiratory Problems''', like coughs, sneezing, and sore throats, again due to improper air filtration and sometimes lack of air movement.
* '''Malnutrition''', primarily vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the selection of foods available and barely handled by supplements, to lack of suitable protein (fresh meat being expensive), through to diabetes and cardiovascular disease due to junk food.
== Medical Technology ==
With the propensity of [[Handwavium] to try and prevent damage to life (The Slapstick Effect as it is commonly known), there is a large amount of technology available in the medical arena.
=== Diagnostic Technology ===
Rapid diagnosis of what is wrong is crucial to preventing what could be minor ailments from worsening. From the ever popular '''Tricorder''' (especially its medical variant), to examination beds filled with miniaturised MRI and X-Ray machines, to labs filled with blood analysis machines, to mundane items like thermometers and blood pressure cuffs... All the variants of diagnostic sensors are available.
Supplementing this is analysis software allowing the somewhat rough-and-ready medical personnel of Fenspace to quickly figure out what needs to be done.
=== Treatment Technology ===
Once you know what is wrong, you can fix it. '''Hyposprays''' use compressed air inject drugs without needles and for long term uses automated drug dispensers can be '''worn''', allowing patients to get up and about. ''Slap Patches'' let the medicines be absorbed through the skin, while '''Automed Bands''' (as used by Great Justice combat personnel) can deliver timed doses of a variety of drugs, or respond to events it senses.
For physical wounds we have ''Bandage Spray and Foam'' which dries quickly to seal and stop bleeding. It is also usually impregnated with the drug '''Quickheal'''. There are various dispensers for these 'liquid' bandages, including some that 'paint' strips that can be used to wrap body parts.
When surgery ''is'' required, the use of robotics is the norm. Using Augmented Reality systems tied into sensors the surgeon can see precisely what they need to do. The systems even allow remote control of systems like medically adapted '''Bush Robots''' and the portable '''Automed Pods''' which can handle many things on their own.
=== Support Technology ===
The technology most seen in this category are the medically-adapted Bush Robots mentioned before, used as nursing support. Things not usually seen are the integrated sterilisers on the robotic instruments, drug synthesisers, and the adaptive expert systems managing the facilities.
One major advantage in this area is the use of the '''Emergency Medical Hologram'''. This is a [[Artificial Intelligence#AI Classifications|Gamma-class] [[Artificial Intelligence|A.I.] specifically programmed for medical duties. They are mostly used to provide emergency medical cover (as per the name) or round the clock priority care, and their extensive medical databases help with tricky diagnoses. They normally use the Bush Robots if they need to interact with physical objects.
=== Drugs ===
Drugs are not normally thought of as technology, but they need to be created just like the rest of the items in this section. Given the sheer variety of pharmaceuticals available, only the most common will be covered below:
* '''Buzkil''' - This is the most common name for an anti-intoxicant drug normally used to counter alcohol and its attendant effects (including hangovers).
* '''Rad-X''' - This preventative drug helps deal with exposure to radiation.
* '''Gravnol''' - This drug prevents bone deterioration due to lack of gravity. It also has anti-nausea properties.
* '''Quickheal''' - This is actually a combination of 10 very similar drugs that promote healing and the immune system. The cocktail has some limits on its use, mainly because it can cause Biomods if taken in very high doses. The individual components are also used separately to greater effect in their focus than general Quickheal.
* '''Bugstomper''' - This is an extremely effective anti-bacterial and anti-viral. It also can be taken preventatively.
* '''Painaway''' - As indicated by its name, this drug suppresses pain for up to 8 hours without causing loss of feeling. Overuse can however can cause loss of feeling.
* '''Purge''' - The newest of the drugs on this list, Purge forces the body to get rid of foreign substances. This affects useful drugs as well as things like poisons. It is also the only drug known that can reduce Handwavium contamination, even if only by small amounts. The main problem of this drug is the risk of dehydration as it works.
==== Red Band Drugs ====
Most people will have seen version of drugs they know in containers with a prominent red band. This symbol indicates the drug (or other object, as this indicator has been adopted elsewhere) has a high Handwavium contentSince a small but noticeable fraction of Fen (including 0.5% of unmodded human males and a large percentage of Furries) are red-green colour-blind, these drugs are also labeled with other warning symbols.. This boosts the effects of the drug, but has enough Handwavium content to Biomod a person. Thus Red Band drugs are normally only used by those who are already biomodded.
=== Cybertechnology ===
Even with the treatments available to the Fen, occasionally injuries can't be healed and a person loses an organ or limb. This being the Fen, a simple mundane prosthetic isn't good enough.
Although it is used in those cases where a replacement limb is required, most cybertechnology (known as '''Cyberware''') was developed for enhancements.
==== Cyberware grades ====
Because of its origins as an enhancement technology, cybertechnology is commonly assigned grades as to its quality and/or the quality needed for it to do its designed role. More mature cybernetics exist in multiple grades, as they become more manufacturable.
*'''Kludgeware''' (or ''Class 0'') - Pretty much what it sounds like, cybernetics put together out of scrap and 'Wave and more likely to biomod you than not. It's poor reputation means the owner doesn't get much sympathy, unless the operation was a lifesaver in poor conditions in which case the owner gets a rep boost because it means one of the [[Glossary#BNF|BNF] cyber-surgeons probably did it.
* '''Basicware''' (or ''Class 1'') - Cyberware of this grade is pretty much the standard for civilian medical treatment. It does the job well enough that most that get it are happy. Due to the fact Basicware is also produced in the 'Danelaw, it is virtually Handwavium free, and as such there is virtually no chance of an accidental biomod from Basicware.
* '''Alphaware''' (or ''Class 2'') - Higher quality cyberware, built with better tolerances. This means the devices can be enhanced somewhat, leading to it being standard for military medical treatmentThe enhancements are hard disabled by default in case of treating civilians in warzones.
* '''Betaware''' (or ''Class 3'') - The cyberware equivalent of a luxury car, built with very high quality parts and materials. They need to be ordered, allowing the customer to customise the items to various degrees. The surgeons basically construct the device during surgery to better fit the customer. One of the downsides of being known as having Betaware is the assumption you are someone dangerous, as most Betaware users tend to be in the 'Security' businessOr that you had enough money to buy it and get a [[Glossary#BNF|BNF] Cyber-Doc to put it in. This could get you into trouble.
* '''Deltawear''' (or ''Class 4'') - Cyberware of this grade is utterly bespoke. It is custom made to the user's specifications, and woven into the subject's body to make it as much a part of it as the rest of him. The technologies involved are always cutting-edge, and use the highest quality materials. Deltaware grade cyberware almost always requires a top cyber-surgeon (usually a [[Glossary#BNF|BNF]) and/or a lot of resources to afford the cyberware.
* '''Edgeware''' (or ''Class 5'') - If Deltaware is cyberware's equivalent of Supercars, Edgeware is the secret military project that goes past the bleeding edge (hence its name). And good luck finding it, as those who have it tend to be a bit paranoid about revealing it.
There is also '''Oopsware''', which is a term used to describe the enhancements of ''accidental'' cyborgs.
==== Cyborg Classifications ====
Based on the amount of cyberware in an individual, there are four classification levels used:
* '''Medical''' - This classification is for those who have received cybernetics for medical reasons. Medical cybernetics do not ''normally'' (see the entry on Alphaware above) enhance the individual who receives them. The cybernetics used are considered prosthetics.
* '''Partial''' - Technically, any cybernetic implantation makes one a partial cyborg. In general, any cybernetic enhancement replacing between 5 and 30% of the body (or not more than one limb) makes one a partial cyborg.
* '''Active''' - An active cyborg has between 30 and 50% of the body replaced.
* '''Full''' - A full cyborg has between 50 and 75% of the body replaced, not including the central nervous system and brain.
* '''Total''' - A total cyborg has greater than 75% of the body replaced with cybernetics, or otherwise classifies as a Full cyborg with significant nervous system and/or brain work done.
=== Biotechnology ===
Under the heading of biotechnology, there are two sub-categories, '''Genetic Engineering''' and '''Tissue Engineering'''.
==== Genetic Engineering ====
Genetic Engineering is an infant science in the medical arena. While its use on insects and non-sapient animals has been done, its use in Humans is one of the few areas the [[Fenspace Convention] regulates strongly. As such, there are no available treatments in Fenspace. This doesn't mean the [[Mads] aren't working on it.
==== Tissue Engineering ====
The newest technology in the medical spectrum, Tissue Engineering is mostly involved in the artificial growth of compatible (mostly cloned) organs to replace missing or damaged versions. Cloned replacement parts are more commonly being the name '''Cultureware'''.
===== Cyberware vs. Cultureware =====
You may ask yourself, why get cybered up if they can grow you a new arm? Two factors explain the majority of this.
The first is that ever present bane of our lives, time. Even with the fastest fast-growth techniques, getting a typical clone grown to adulthood takes about two weeks. Then you have to get used to the implant, which can take upwards of a month depending on various factors. For implanted limbs there is also conditioning the new limb and reconditioning your body after all the time out. With cyberware, all it takes is the operation and healing, and you're technically ready to go.
Second is cost. Simply put, a body is biomass. It needs input to grow, and effort to maintain. A clone is a significant investment in time and effort, and then it's used to patch someone together again. While a large portion of the cost is offset by 'recycling'There's euphemism if ever there was one. the remainder back to useful materials, it's still roughly three times the average cost of good quality cyberware.
As such cyberware is the preferred option for emergency departments and military doctors.
However, cyberware normally needs regular maintenanceDepending on the grade, who made it, and/or who installed it, this may be much reduced. and with the cost of repairs/upgrades over its lifetime cyberware can add up to an expensive proposition, compared with cloned organs/limbs which self repair.
Still, there are a few people and biomods that cannot take cybernetic replacements and there are those who do not ''want'' cyberware. As such cultureware fills a need.
=== Nanotechnology ===
Nanotechnology has not ''officially'' been developed in Fenspace, although there are several groups researching it.
As such, there is no medical nanotech in Fenspace.
=== Biomodification ===
''Main article: [[Biomodification]''
By the strictest definition, Biomodification should be listed under Biotechnology. However, the most common involves the use of [[Handwavium] to induce a mutagenic change in a person. The one fact that makes this a medical technique is that (given no existing biomod) it will '''always''' save the life of the modeé.
While in general this can only happen once per person, there have been developed two methods of getting around that limit.
* '''Bio-molding''' - Based on techniques used by the [[Catgirling Machine], this is the application of a specific template to a person to achieve a predictable effect. There are however several downsides, including limits on how often the process can be used on an individual and the sheer amount of [[Handwavium|handwavium] the person has in their body.
* '''Re-modding''' - An experimental technique with a high degree of risk, re-modding actually ''restarts'' the biomodding process in a person and attempts to change the existent biomod. Needless to say, this is only used as an emergency technique in medical use.
==== Custom Biomoddifications ====
There is a significant minority who ''want'' to be biomodded, because they feel that they are not who they are supposed to be. Several factions have developed fairly reliable [[Handwavium|handwavium] strains and processes so the modeé fits into the faction better. Beyond this, there are several [[Handwavium|handwavium] researchers and [[Mads] that have reputations for biomodding to order.
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Lack of Neural interfaces ===
There are plenty of 'Waveborgs out there with built in radios attached to their brains, so why hasn't a neural interface been introduced? The main reason is that current techniques in brain surgery are still too coarse in general to do it without too much other damage to the brain. This hasn't stopped research into this technology.
However, there is one time such surgery is done. For a Total Cyborg Conversion.
When a cyborg reaches the 80% mark (the value is a rough estimate, based on the nature of the cyborg's current enhancements and the skill of the surgeons who have worked on them), the remaining meat becomes crucial to keeping the brain stable (through various hormones and such). While it's possible to replace said meat with tech to maintain the balance, it's tricky and the tech is delicate.
The alternate option is to start manipulating the brain to reduce the dependence on said hormones for stability, and if one was going to do that why not go all the way?
Total Cyborgs are not as rare as one might think. Most are either 'Waveborgs (born via biomod), or single successes (nicknamed Lone Stars) from various cyber-docs or techs who rarely get a second.
However, there are very few places in Fenspace that can consistently do total cyborgs, and if they aren't one of the above types the conversions could only have been done in one of eight places. These are the '''Delta clinics'''.
Of the Delta clinics, only six remain in operation. One belonged to the Lin Kuei, and was taken out towards the end of the Boskone WarThere is only a mention of '...a quick response team...' pulling this off, so nobody knows who did it.. The other belonged to Greg Sanders, and he was 'put down' by [[A.C. Peters|A.C.] herself when he went over the edge. The remainder of his team either died in Greg's madness or ended up in Azkaban.
The remaining six (and their lead surgeon) are:
* '''Kandor City Hospital'''
: ''Location:'' [[Kandor City], [[Luna]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Michael Groves a.k.a Metal Mickey
:The most well-funded Delta clinic in Fenspace, and certainly in the top three for numbers of procedures done.
* '''Ares Medical'''
: ''Location:'' [[Noctis Labyrinthus], [[Mars]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Tsu Ann Spengler
: Being in the heart of the [[Panzer Kunst Gruppe], Ares Medical probably does the lion's share of conversions in Fenspace.
* '''[[Vesta Institute of Robotics]'''
: ''Location:'' Novyi Petrovichi, [[4 Vesta | Vesta], [[The Main Belt]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Professor David Starr
: With the help of their [[Vesta Institute of Biochemistry|sister institute], VIR has established a reputation of good methodical work and helping 'Waveborgs understand themselves.
* '''Phobos Medical Centre'''
: ''Location:'' [[Port Phobos], [[Phobos], [[Mars]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' Dr Sarah Connor
: With it dealing with the largest port in Fenspace, the Phobos Medical Center has some quite skilled if overworked cyber-surgeons to be found in the Black. This doesn't stop Dr Connor from trying her best to get more customers to Phobos.
* '''[[Prometheus Forge]'''
: ''Location:'' [[The Main Belt]
: ''Head Surgeon:'' [[A.C. Peters]
: As one of the founding lights of modern cybernetics, A.C. is regarded as one of the best when it comes to creating, implanting, or analysing cybernetics.Being a [[Mad] helps a lot as well.
* '''[[Sol Bianca]'''
: ''Location:'' Wherever [[The Professor] wants.
: ''Head Surgeon:'' [[The Professor]
: Being the definitive [[Mad] in Fenspace, The Professor has the facilities to perform total cyborg conversions and is known to have done so at least three times.
== Notes ==
[[Category:Fen Technology]
A little something for the Red Band Drugs section:
[[Image:Biomod Warning Label.jpg|thumb|right|Warning label found on many [[handwavium|Handwaved] food and medical products]
It's been on the wiki for over a year now... we may as well use it here, too.
--
Rob Kelk
"Governments have no right to question the loyalty of those who oppose
them. Adversaries remain citizens of the same state, common subjects of
the same sovereign, servants of the same law."
- Michael Ignatieff, addressing Stanford University in 2012
Looks good to me.
-- Bob
---------
Then the horns kicked in...
...and my shoes began to squeak.