# Summary of IRC Conversation on #hplusroadmap (Dec 21, 2011)

* Discussion of a controversial influenza research study where scientists were investigating genetic changes that might make viruses more transmissible, with debate about the NSABB (National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity) attempting to censor publication of the findings.

* Technical critique of using ferrets as research models for influenza virulence, noting they share similar sialic acid sugars on respiratory epithelial cells with humans but are poor models for pathogenicity assessment.

* Debate about biosecurity concerns, with participants arguing that focusing on engineered viruses is misguided when natural mutations pose greater risks, and that censorship of scientific information is counterproductive.

* Several JavaScript tools were shared, including keyboard.backbone.js and keymaster.js for implementing keyboard shortcuts in web applications.

* Mobile and web tools for productivity were discussed, including an Android app for syncing OrgMode files (mobileorg.ncogni.to) and a browser-based implementation of OrgMode (yata.in).

* Brief mention of a Canadian vaccine clinical trial announcement, with a request for the related patent information.

* Discussion of Autodesk's acquisitions, including Instructables and VisualTAO (which became AutoCAD WS), showing interest in the business evolution of design and maker platforms.