# Key Points from IRC Log

• Ed Boyden's expansion microscopy technique was discussed, which identifies brain structures and develops photosensitive molecules for each structure as an extension of optogenetics work.

• Research on processing billion-node graphs using arrays of SSDs (Flashgraph) was shared, alongside discussions about agricultural automation technology, including Fundibots' work in Uganda using locally available materials.

• Autologous blood banking services were examined, with specific mention of IDANT's offering that allows people to store their own blood for future medical use at approximately $4,500 for a 10-year storage plan, despite historical industry resistance.

• A significant archaeological discovery of 3.3-million-year-old stone tools from Lomekwi 3 in Kenya was highlighted, predating Oldowan tools by 700,000 years and leading to the proposal of a new "Lomekwian" archaeological period.

• A machine learning algorithm for mining and generating rap lyrics was discussed, with references to both a Technology Review article and the original research paper available on arXiv.

• The conversation included debate about cord blood banking, weighing its value as a source of undifferentiated stem cells against concerns about premature cord clamping and potential blood diversion from newborns.