- A pre-print on pulvino-cortical feedforward/feedback pathways in cognition was shared (bioRxiv 322560), alongside a review on axon guidance mechanisms (Development 145:dev151415).  
- Next-generation data-storage concepts were highlighted: scanning-probe thermomechanical and ferroelectric memories, positioned as successors to HDD and flash (MRS Bulletin article).  
- The Allen Institute announced the start of sectioning for the largest-ever EM dataset—aiming to map ~1 billion synapses in 1 mm³ of brain tissue.  
- An open, 3-D-printable optomechanical framework called μCube was introduced for rapid prototyping of lab-grade optical setups (openhardware.metajnl.com).  
- Discussion of cost-disease drivers referenced Peter Thiel’s critique, Scott Alexander’s “Considerations on Cost Disease,” and a workers-comp case study achieving 20:1 ROI by ignoring standard-of-care protocols.  
- Foxconn’s automation progress was reviewed: 40 000 “Foxbot” units deployed versus an original 1 million-robot goal, with per-unit costs as low as a few thousand dollars for simple delta pick-and-place arms.  
- A 1990s genetically engineered anti-cavity oral vaccine (streptococcus mutans replaced by acid-inert, self-poisoning strain) was recalled; participants blamed FDA delays for its absence from the market.  
- Sweden’s termination of its Elsevier contract and the push for full open-access to scientific literature were noted (Hacker News thread).