# Key Points from IRC Log (May 29, 2016)

• A discussion about "Synapsyl" concluded it is a scam nootropic product, highlighting the channel's critical approach to unverified cognitive enhancement claims.

• An Open Philanthropy Project report on AI forecasting was shared (titled "What should we learn from past AI forecasts?"), representing ongoing interest in AI development timelines and prediction accuracy.

• A detailed technical discussion occurred about DNA synthesis protocols, with participants critiquing a mathematician's proposal for DIY DNA synthesis that involved thermolabile nucleotides, with specific concerns about the need for double-stranded targets for type IIS restriction enzymes.

• Participants debated the merits of different approaches to DNA synthesis, including using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TDT) versus nicking enzymes with polymerase, and discussed the cost considerations of thermolabile nucleotides ($84 for 2 μmoles).

• A conversation about implementing a pipeline for converting BRLCAD models to g-code for CNC machining highlighted the channel's interest in digital fabrication technologies.

• A link was shared about Google paying $500 million to the Department of Justice to avoid felony charges after being caught selling AdWords to an FBI undercover operation posing as a drug dealer.