# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• Participants discussed the economics of academic publishing, noting that peer reviewers and editors typically work without compensation while publishers have significantly reduced costs due to digital distribution.

• A high-speed DynaFlash projector capable of 1,000fps with only 3ms delay was discussed, with participants noting that 1ms latency represents a significant threshold for certain applications.

• Researchers shared information about a breakthrough engineered ribosome (Ribo-T) with tethered subunits linked by RNA, potentially enabling orthogonal genetic systems and new ribosomal functions.

• The conversation explored protein engineering strategies, contrasting brute force mutation approaches with rational engineering, noting that complex structures like protein nanoneedles couldn't have been created through rational design alone.

• DIY biohacking was discussed in the context of open-source insulin production, including technical challenges of using E. coli or yeast systems and removing contaminants like lipopolysaccharides.

• Several DIY hardware projects were detailed, including a laser lithography system using Blu-ray optical components, with discussions about achieving high resolution at low cost through feedback mechanisms and position calibration.

• Participants shared information about affordable FPGA technology, specifically a $5 ice40 board with 1280 logic cells—sufficient to emulate an AVR microcontroller and 16 times larger than early Xilinx FPGAs.