- A genetic-algorithm experiment on recurrent neural networks was noted: over 10 generations mean fitness doubled even though a hidden-layer integer-overflow bug caused oscillations, highlighting robustness of evolutionary search.  
- RebelBio announced a 9 Feb conference at University College Cork featuring HI-SEAS IV astronaut/astrobiologist Cyprien Verseaux, who will discuss using synthetic bacteria to bootstrap a stable Mars colony.  
- Illumina’s claim of sequencing an entire human genome in one hour for ~$100 was shared (STAT News article), prompting skepticism about technical readiness versus marketing hype.  
- Non-viral gene-delivery methods were catalogued: naked DNA, electroporation, gene gun, sonoporation, magnetofection, virosomes, lipoplexes, dendrimers, polyplexes, silica-coated nanoparticles, protofection for mitochondrial DNA, and the Ligandal “nano-gobstopper” (PEI-DNA core, histone-tail peptide, poly-glutamic acid, silica shell, targeting ligands).  
- Practical challenges for nanoparticle delivery were debated: scalable assembly, endosomal escape, nuclear trafficking, in-vivo targeting versus liver/lung sequestration, and metabolic fate of PEI and silica.  
- Peter Watts’ novel “Blindsight” was linked; passages about resurrected sociopath-augmented astronauts and gradual bodily disassembly for digital upload were quoted as evocative transhumanist fiction.  
- Productivity discussion: amphetamines, library-before-lab time-saving, avoiding redundant code, and the limited impact of faster typing on software design were offered as ways to “get two hours of work done in one.”  
- Cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) was distinguished from tDCS (it uses pulsed AC) and was mentioned anecdotally for ADHD and insomnia.