- Gut-brain axis: Nature article “How gut microbes could drive brain disorders” sparked discussion on why VC-funded microbiome startups have not yet peaked; fasting was proposed as a way to reduce misfolded proteins via autophagy and possibly delay Parkinson’s onset.  
- Misfolded-protein immunotherapy: participants questioned why antibodies don’t clear pathological aggregates; fenn suggested misfolded proteins may serve an emergency immune or barrier-repair role in the brain.  
- Anders Sandberg’s 2012 paper “Eternity in six hours” (PDF linked) argues that self-replicating probes could colonize the observable universe in ~6 h subjective ship-time, sharpening the Fermi paradox; debate ensued over whether “fleeing persecution” requires sending living humans versus digital mind-states or DNA-based embryos.  
- Philosophical disagreement: apotheon argued that uploading or seeding digital clones does not constitute personal survival or literal “escape,” while others countered that continuity of identity is irrelevant at civilizational scales.  
- Hydrogen energy: Fraunhofer’s “Powerpaste” (magnesium hydride slurry) highlighted as a high-density, room-temperature hydrogen carrier for fuel-cell scooters; current pilot plant capacity only 4 t yr⁻¹.  
- Quantum RF receiver: new device uses Rydberg atoms in vapor cells to detect any 4 MHz slice across the entire radio spectrum with a single tunable laser system, though still needs conventional antennas for each band.  
- Networking & career paths: lsneff expressed frustration at generic software internships and sought advice on entering high-impact fields (space, BCI, longevity); kanzure suggested a longevity-focused VC fund, while L29Ah recommended direct outreach to target research communities.  
- Cryptography links: kanzure posted a mimblewimble coinswap proposal and a Blockstream article on “Cat and Schnorr tricks” for Bitcoin scriptless scripts.