# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Log

• A user described an unusual neurological experience similar to a migraine that affected their sense of touch, where reduced conscious touch perception paradoxically improved their dexterity, suggesting that less conscious interference with lower-level motor processes may enhance certain physical skills.

• The conversation touched on synthetic blood substitutes, with a Popular Mechanics article shared that covered five synthetic alternatives to real blood.

• Members discussed the "Open Science Lab initiative" in Budapest, Hungary, a collaboration between Budapest FabLab, Hackerspace Budapest, and the Asimov Foundation.

• A discussion about stem cell research included concerns about religious objections potentially delaying longevity breakthroughs, with clarification that induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs) offer a viable alternative to embryonic stem cells.

• A user requested and received access to David Nutt's paper "Neural correlates of the psychedelic state as determined by fMRI studies with psilocybin," noting Nutt's stance against UK drug policies.

• The channel demonstrated its focus on transhumanist topics including biohacking, nootropics, open hardware, and DIY biology, with resources being shared including a stem cell research repository (http://diyhpl.us/~bryan/papers2/stem-cells/).