# Key Points from IRC Discussions

• Researchers shared and discussed a collection of longevity research papers (http://diyhpl.us/~bryan/papers2/longevity/), focusing on anti-aging mechanisms including NF-kB signaling inhibition, oxidative stress reduction, and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway downregulation.

• The conversation explored alternative input technologies, particularly steno typing systems like Plover (http://plover.stenoknight.com/) and custom keyboard designs, with debate about whether alternative keyboard layouts offer sufficient speed improvements (~20%) to justify the switching costs.

• Participants discussed scientific funding strategies, noting that NSF grants require both rigorous proposals and personal connections, while smaller funding needs (~$10,000) might be more easily secured through startup channels if projects can demonstrate profit potential.

• A participant reported developing an automated medical equipment/liquid handling hardware prototype with three Pittsburgh labs willing to evaluate it, highlighting the importance of working prototypes over concepts when seeking funding.

• The group discussed file management systems for large research collections, including git-annex for handling duplicate files across volumes, alongside methods for maintaining consistent URL mappings during server migrations.

• A philosophical exchange about information as currency emerged, with some arguing that knowledge has inherent value and isn't zero-sum, while others contested the idea that information carries negative monetary value.