# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• DIY neuroscience was demonstrated through the "SpikerBox" project, which allows users to visualize neural activity in cockroach legs through electrodes, showing how neural rate encoding can be observed with accessible technology.

• Advanced haptic technologies were discussed, including an "airborne ultrasound tactile display" that creates touchable 3D sensations in free space without physical contact, and a "Stress Outsourced" wearable system for anonymous networked massage sharing.

• Participants explored novel human-computer interfaces, including a Braille-based communication glove that translates finger taps to ASCII code and back through vibration feedback, demonstrating interest in alternative input/output methods.

• The community showed significant interest in bioinformatics, with mentions of work on "fully assembled genomes" suggesting active participation in synthetic biology or genetic engineering projects.

• Singularity University was discussed as a high-level educational program (costing approximately $68,000) with notable faculty including Peter Norvig, Robert Freitas, and Ralph Merkle, with one participant describing it as "a modern-day Jedi Academy for young leaders."

• Open-source technology projects were highlighted, including XCB (X protocol C-language Binding), PSAS (Portland State Aerospace Society), and an upcoming "apt-get for hardware" presentation suggesting work on package management systems for physical components.

• The group's reading interests revealed a focus on transhumanist and hard science fiction, with recommendations for authors like Greg Egan, Ted Chiang, David Zindell, and Stanislaw Lem, reflecting the community's engagement with speculative technological futures.