# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• Participants discussed two major transhumanist research initiatives—Robot Companions (robotcompanions.eu) and FuturICT (futurict.eu)—comparing their merits to Markram's brain simulation project.

• The conversation revealed ongoing efforts to resurrect NanoEngineer-1, an open-source molecular modeling software originally developed by the now-defunct Nanorex Inc. (2004-2009), with users collaborating to fix compatibility issues with modern systems and transition from Numeric to NumPy libraries.

• A user named Juul described research on upregulating gene expression during mild hypothermia in HeLa cells, noting the limited literature on cold-shock response in mammals.

• Participants shared and discussed research papers on laser ablation, including detailed studies of pulsed laser ablation craters in glass.

• An interesting astronomical finding was discussed regarding nearly 700 rogue stars apparently ejected from the Milky Way galaxy, possibly due to encounters with the supermassive black hole at the galaxy's core.

• The channel demonstrated collaborative Git workflow techniques for maintaining open-source projects, including detailed instructions for managing branches, recovering from mistakes, and maintaining redundant repositories across multiple platforms.

• A biotech IP conference was mentioned where Drew Endy presented on DNA as information, with lawyers expressing concern about potential "catastrophes" similar to internet piracy in the digital realm.