- Inchworm and “Squiggle” piezo micro-motors were discussed; nmz787 linked the Wikipedia inchworm-motor article and New Scale Tech’s page, while lsneff noted that “nanometer precision” claims often translate to ~0.5 µm step size and high cost.  
- muurkha clarified that 500 nm steps can still yield 1 nm effective precision via micro-stepping, and analyzed actuator strain limits for PZT ceramics versus organic piezos like PVDF.  
- docl proposed a MEMS-based “conveyor surface” that replaces belts with a programmable 2-D array of micro-actuators able to push, orient, or sort objects dynamically; debate followed on load capacity, contamination, and micro-scale surface roughness.  
- fenn suggested a simpler bristle-bot-inspired directional surface using interlaced patches of angled bristles (analogous to an RGB Bayer mask) to achieve controlled motion without full MEMS complexity.  
- kanzure shared recent longevity research: the eLife paper “Multi-omic rejuvenation of human cells by maturation phase transient reprogramming,” the launch of Retro Biosciences with $180 M to extend healthy lifespan by 10 years, and a CRISPR study on creating hypoallergenic cats by editing the Fel d 1 allergen.  
- MIRI/LessWrong turmoil over AI existential risk was highlighted; maaku linked Eliezer Yudkowsky’s “death with dignity” post and follow-up essays, while fenn noted the April-Fool’s tag and ensuing community debate.