• Ed Boyden’s latest BCI/optogenetics roadmap was transcribed and posted to the diytranshumanist Google Group, giving the open-source community its first detailed look at his current DIY neuro-interface directions.  
• A new arXiv pre-print (quant-ph/0408104) argues that the periodic table can be re-derived from group theory, suggesting a deeper mathematical structure behind chemical elements that could inform future bio- or nano-engineering toolkits.  
• The SKDB (Structured Knowledge Database) project received its first unsolicited external coverage via Fabbaloo’s post “Wanna Git SKDBing?”, signaling growing interest in open-source hardware knowledge graphs.  
• Radio-isotope batteries with six orders of magnitude higher power density than chemical cells were highlighted as a potential ultra-long-life power source for implantables or remote sensors, though rechargeability and cost remain open questions.  
• A live-aboard yacht was modeled as a mobile hacker lab: ~$8 k used hull, $13 k 2 kW solar, plus Florida state-park docks at $2–$5 per night; Boston slips once offered 240 V/50 A shore power, wired internet, and mail forwarding for ~$300/mo.  
• Satellite-internet economics were dissected: marine VSAT costs far more than land systems because hardware must compensate for motion, corrosion, and dynamic pointing, adding thousands in CAPEX and service fees.  
• U.S. coastal regulations were mapped: the entire SE Alaska coast is now protected sea-otter habitat, anchoring on coral risks vessel seizure, and Mississippi River banks prohibit anchoring due to mesh retaining mats.  
• Navigation and liability hazards include uncharted WWI/WWII ordnance off Florida, barge “trains” on inland rivers, and the legal reality that detonating an old bomb while anchoring is the boater’s fault.