# Key Points from IRC Discussion

• Participants discussed cognitive enhancement drugs, sharing links to Bitcoin-based pharmacies (medsforbitcoin.com and btcnootropics.com) for modafinil and armodafinil, demonstrating the intersection of cryptocurrency and nootropics markets.

• A technical conversation explored the possibility of creating an alternative "black market antibody service" using either cell culture for native antibodies or E. coli expression of Fab fragments as a response to counterfeit monoclonal antibody therapies.

• The group debated biotech patent issues, specifically criticizing the industry's argument that isolated DNA should be patentable because it's not wrapped around histones and therefore constitutes a novel molecule.

• Detailed technical discussion covered tactile feedback devices for transhumanist applications, particularly the "northpaw" project based on Dr. Paul Bach-y-Rita's sensory substitution research, examining various approaches to creating efficient vibration mechanisms.

• The Joint BioEnergy Institute's (JBEI) Tecan Freedom EVO robotics platform was discussed as being underutilized (<50%), with concerns about programming inefficiencies and the need for "hot-swappable" code to reduce machine downtime.

• Current limitations in brain-computer interface technology were highlighted through discussion of an EEG-based typing system with disappointing performance of only 12.75 characters per minute (approximately 1-2 words per minute).

• Alternative housing solutions were explored, particularly shipping container homes and modular "tempohousing" as affordable, customizable living spaces, alongside a DIY energy production project (wiki.gekgasifier.com).