# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• Electroreception in animals was explored, with participants sharing scientific literature on how sharks and other creatures sense electromagnetic fields, demonstrating interest in biological sensing mechanisms that might inspire transhuman technologies.

• Paper-based microfluidic diagnostic technologies developed by George Whitesides were discussed in depth, with multiple scientific papers shared about creating low-cost diagnostic tests for developing regions, highlighting interest in accessible medical technology.

• A $10 million X-Prize for brain-computer interface (BCI) development was analyzed, with participants noting the ambitious scale of the challenge, comparing it to "offering $10 million for a cure for cancer."

• Research on using tobacco mosaic virus for nanoscale protein assemblies and solar cell applications was shared, showing the group's interest in biological approaches to nanotechnology.

• Time management and productivity tracking methods were examined, including a personal activity tracking system visualized at fennetic.net/sleep that records daily activities in an actogram format, reflecting the community's interest in quantified self approaches.

• Open source initiatives were discussed across multiple domains, including space technology (cstart.org), DIY book scanning hardware, and SKDB (skill database) as a documentation system for open hardware projects.

• Participants critiqued current augmented reality implementations as limited, specifically discussing disappointment with a Harry Potter AR experience that relied on basic fiducial tracking rather than more advanced technology.