• A new RNA-guided “bridge recombination” system was highlighted as a programmable gene-editing tool, expanding the CRISPR toolkit beyond Cas9.  
• Adrian Bowyer (RepRap founder) argued that true self-replication is impossible for machines because they still depend on “vitamins” (non-printable parts), prompting debate over whether this redefines the RepRap goal or simply acknowledges practical limits.  
• MIT’s Center for Bits and Atoms is explicitly pursuing a fully self-replicating machine, and community members called for a comprehensive 2024 review of 20 years of RepRap progress.  
• 454 Bio released its DNA-sequencing platform as complete open-source hardware, publishing instrument plans, wet-lab protocols, chemistry sourcing, and analysis software at 454.bio.  
• A Science paper described an orthogonal DNA polymerase that functions in vivo, offering a potential “shadow genome” for synthetic biology and safer gene circuits.  
• Researchers discussed printable fluidic logic as a transistor-free control system for self-replicating machines, noting that stereolithography may achieve audio-frequency fluidic circuits despite surface-roughness challenges.  
• Ferrite-core and diode logic—vibration-resistant, EMP-proof, and transistor-free—was revisited as a high-speed alternative to fluidics for harsh-environment computation.  
• The RepRap wiki and forums were partially archived (14 GB with images) to Internet Archive, but calls went out for full WARC backups before further bitrot.  
• A Gattaca Genomics startup was noted for offering preimplantation genetic testing under the slogan “behind the curve,” sparking commentary on consumer eugenics.