# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussions

• Participants critically analyzed Zoltan Istvan's "Three Laws of Transhumanism," finding them overly simplistic compared to his book "The Transhumanist Wager," which was described as having an "Atlas Shrugged-style" black-and-white narrative approach.

• The channel discussed ethical concerns around historical brain stimulation experiments, particularly a controversial 1972 study that attempted to alter sexual orientation through brain implants, highlighting ethical issues in early neuroscience research.

• Technical discussions about PCB design revealed challenges with multi-layer boards (up to 32 copper layers in modern designs, with industrial fabs capable of 48 layers) and limitations in current CAD software for handling complex designs.

• Randal Koene's neural interface work was highlighted, including his startup "NeuraLink Co." developing tiny wireless neural probes powered by infrared light that could navigate the circulatory system without breaking barriers.

• Several academic papers on whole brain emulation were shared, including Koene's research on "Fundamentals of Whole Brain Emulation" and the need for innovative in-vivo measurement techniques.

• The group explored AI-generated music, referencing "Emily Howell" as an example of an AI system composing classical music, while discussing technical challenges in creating convincing AI composers and MIDI limitations.

• Researchers discussed cortisol resistance, examining its effects on inflammation, neural function, and potential developmental impacts, including how maternal cortisol levels in milk can affect infant temperament.

• Conversations about embodied AI focused on motion planning limitations and knowledge representation, with references to virtual creatures evolving behaviors to build structural objects in simulated environments.