# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Participants explored DIY biochemistry/genetics lab creation, discussing regulatory considerations and practical techniques like DNA extraction using microfluidics and protein purification methods, with specific mention that "Taq is super easy to purify" without column chromatography.

• The nature of consciousness was debated, with some defining it in terms of "memories and sensory data" plus "continuity," while others questioned whether such definitions would be useful for building systems, alongside discussions of consciousness transfer and cloning as potential paths to immortality.

• Wearable computing and augmented reality interfaces were critically examined, with debates about what constitutes true wearable technology and comparisons of visual programming paradigms like DRAKON, Scratch, and Alice for AR applications.

• Open source science infrastructure was a central theme, with participants discussing platforms like diysci.org for collecting DIY research, licensing options beyond Creative Commons for hardware projects, and offers of free web hosting to support community development.

• Tensions within the DIYbio community were revealed, highlighting different approaches to collaboration and communication styles, with some advocating for more structured leadership while others preferred established open-source methodologies.

• Technical resources were shared throughout, including PythonOCC for 3D modeling, compatibility equations for mechanical components, and discussions of DIY lab equipment like homemade centrifuges, fume hoods, and robotic mills.