# Summary of #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (October 17, 2012)

• The conversation compared neural simulation frameworks, noting that NEST focuses on large-scale simulation of simple neurons while MOOSE functions as a rewritten core of GENESIS, highlighting the different approaches to computational neuroscience.

• Participants discussed significant challenges in brain simulation, including lack of standardization across neuron models, difficulties integrating models from different labs, and the massive parameter search space with insufficient experimental data.

• Kanzure discovered security vulnerabilities in the Royal Society of Chemistry website, including exposed Google search appliance caches that allowed access to PDFs and weak password systems based on birthdates.

• The DIYbio community showed continued growth with mentions of a San Diego meeting and potential tours of large-scale bioreactors (17,000 liter) at Genentech, demonstrating interest in industrial biotechnology applications.

• A resource for DIYbio newcomers was shared (http://diyhpl.us/wiki/diybio/faq), indicating ongoing efforts to onboard new participants to the community biohacking movement.

• The conversation noted Craig Venter's work on developing a DNA synthesizer product, though specific details were limited.

• The global expansion of DIYbio was evidenced by mention of a "DIYbio Holy Land" being established in Israel.