# Summary of #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (May 11, 2009)

* A neural network simulation system was shared (http://smw.referata.com/wiki/Emergent_Neural_Network_Simulation_System) along with discussion of NVidia's Tesla C870 GPU being used for neural network simulations by Evolved Machines, which simulates neuronal components in 3D.

* Research on chaperonins was discussed, specifically how a single protein (Cpn60) from Antarctic bacterium Oleispira antarctica can expand E. coli's low temperature growth limit to as low as 10°C.

* Participants discussed bdellovibrios (predatory bacteria) and their potential use for DNA transfection by attaching streptavidin or biotin to their outer membrane proteins.

* Various DNA/gene delivery methods were mentioned, including "DNA guns" (converted .22-caliber rifles), lipofection (described as "the most awesome thing ever"), and a hypothetical "cheeseburger transfection" using extracted lipids.

* A detailed discussion about microfluidic lab-on-a-chip designs using DNA boxes with light-activated azobenzene mechanisms to selectively release different reagents for field testing.

* Academic Earth (http://academicearth.org/) was shared as an educational resource, and a request for an IEEE paper on piezoelectric motor driver circuits was fulfilled.

* Participants discussed PDF organization tools for Linux/OLPC, with recommendations for multiple PDF readers (xpdf, kpdf, gs, djvu) and cautions about Mendeley's performance with large collections.