# Key Points from Transhumanist IRC Discussion

• Participants discussed wearable computing hardware, specifically chorded keyboards that allow typing with fewer keys through simultaneous keypresses, sharing designs optimized for mobile use.

• A DIY thermocycler (PCR machine) project was proposed with a $2,000/month budget over three months to develop a sub-$100 device, with technical discussions about water-based cooling systems offering better heat capacity than air-based alternatives.

• Detailed exchange about ultrasonic brain stimulation technology referenced research showing effects on GABA levels in rat thalamus, with participants discussing the technical requirements including phased array transducers (~$100 each) and stereotactic coordinate systems for precise targeting.

• A brain mapping project was proposed to systematically chart neural connections from multiple sources, with structured data including source, destination, cell type, citations, and density information to support future stereotactic systems.

• Participants debated the scientific validity of binaural beats and brainwave entrainment, with some claiming effectiveness for inducing sleep states while others dismissed the effects as placebo, noting insufficient rigorous research.

• Speculative transhumanist body modifications were explored, including concepts like e-ink implants in skin for display purposes and subdermal microbeads for visual augmentation.

• Open-source software compatibility issues were discussed, particularly regarding NanoEngineer molecular modeling software, with users sharing GitHub fixes and chroot environment solutions to run deprecated software on modern systems.