# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (July 31, 2009)

• Developers worked on implementing a LEGO package for SKDB (an open-source hardware modeling system), focusing on precise measurements of LEGO components including the "Fundamental LEGO Unit" (FLU) and stud pitch (7.985mm), with discussions about programmatically generating brick models based on simple parameters.

• The group discussed stem cell research, specifically the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into cardiomyoblasts and research on myocardin, a protein important in cardiac development.

• Participants referenced a retracted paper on deriving human sperm from embryonic stem cells that was pulled due to plagiarism, highlighting issues in scientific publishing ethics.

• A lab member mentioned Dr. Ellington's shift toward "big things like augmentation" and discussed "genomid" - a plasmid-like construct designed for entire genome insertion, indicating interest in advanced genetic engineering.

• The developers worked on "pyscholar," a Python wrapper for Zotero that enables searching and downloading academic papers outside of Firefox, demonstrating efforts to improve access to scientific literature.

• Technical discussions covered Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printing limitations, noting that larger printed parts suffer from distortion despite claims about the technology's accuracy.

• The group explored microfluidics and circuit printing using inkjet technology, with one member preparing to order ink for experiments in this area.