# Key Points from IRC Log (March 31, 2009)

• Researchers discussed a neuromorphic chip that could simulate neurons 100,000 times faster than a real human brain, with 500,000 chips potentially matching the neuron count of a human brain, raising questions about I/O requirements and potential sentience.

• Various computational architecture approaches were debated, including state machines with crosspoint connections, serial data streams, and the tradeoffs between ASICs and FPGAs for neural simulation, with considerations of power consumption and interconnect speeds.

• A user shared work on membraneless filtration using Navier-Stokes equations, with visualizations of fluid dynamics problems and discussions about proper equation documentation and visualization methods.

• A project for wearable computing/"memory glasses" was discussed, involving SD cards, battery options, and physical mounting solutions for an augmented reality system that would allow computing without being tied to a traditional computer setup.

• Advances in DNA sequencing were shared, specifically a "third-generation sequencing" approach using alpha-hemolysin nanopores and cyclodextrin that can identify individual nucleotides by measuring changes in electric current as they pass through the pore.

• Technical resources were shared including shape optimization with FreeFem++, the Gerris flow solver for computational fluid dynamics, and discussions about curve fitting and least squares methods.