# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• A user shared their custom TeX-based note-taking system from 2004 with shortcut macros for real-time mathematical notation, noting MathML's limitations at that time: http://math.or.cz/fastex/lib.tex

• The group discussed laboratory equipment logistics, including the potential donation of an older thermocycler (PCR machine) requiring mineral oil from Florida to a hackerspace in Ithaca, NY.

• Participants debated food labeling practices following Chipotle's GMO ingredient disclosure, exploring the nuances of how "genetically modified organisms" are defined in public discourse.

• A Nature paper on human throwing evolution (http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v498/n7455/full/nature12267.html) sparked discussion about how throwing abilities may have contributed to human egalitarianism by "democratizing coercive threat."

• The conversation noted major technology companies (Samsung, Sony, Mitsubishi) entering biotech markets, with speculation that tech companies might eventually disrupt traditional biotech firms due to their experience with rapid innovation cycles.

• Participants expressed concerns about laboratory organization and safety issues, including improper equipment placement, questionable fume hood installation, and a potentially contaminated microwave brought into the lab space.

• There was discussion of an "open source automated photobioreactor" project from Biocurious for growing algae, though some participants expressed skepticism about its viability.