# Key Points from ##hplusroadmap Discussion

• Participants explored microfluidic technologies, comparing different channel designs (zigzag, cylindrical posts, sine wave patterns) for effective solution mixing, with specific considerations for applications involving yeast cells.

• The group discussed manufacturing processes for microfluidic devices, contrasting PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) with glass-based approaches, noting PDMS offers flexibility while glass provides better chemical resistance and pressure tolerance.

• Tesla's valvular conduit was highlighted as a potential microfluidic component—a check valve with no moving parts that creates 40x more resistance in one direction than the other.

• Several methods for monitoring yeast viability were compared, including optical density measurements, impedance spectroscopy, and dye-based microscopy, with debate about which techniques could best distinguish between live and dead cells.

• Lensfree microscopy papers were shared, featuring simple implementations using CMOS chips with LED illumination and cellphone-based systems that could enable low-cost biological monitoring.

• Laser-induced bubble formation in microchannels was discussed as a novel pumping mechanism, with references to using low-power lasers (like those from CD-ROM drives) to create bubbles for fluid movement.

• The conversation touched on cybersecurity with mention of the sophisticated "Regin" malware, described as a nation-state tool for compromising GSM networks.