# Key Points from IRC Log

• Researchers discussed a bicistronic design system for gene expression that increases modularity of coding sequences, making it easier to design and ship entire pathways with correct relative expression levels by constantly recruiting and dismissing ribosomes to keep RNA strands unfolded.

• A study on miRNA exocytosis by large dense-core vesicle fusion was shared, revealing that microRNAs can be stored in vesicles and released through vesicle fusion alongside classical neurotransmitters, potentially functioning as novel neuromodulators in cell-to-cell communication.

• Several neuroscience research papers were discussed, including one on in-vivo magnetic recording of neuronal activity using "magnetrodes" (needle-shaped probes with micron-sized magnetic sensors), and another on non-conscious working memory mechanisms.

• German research institutions were reported to be boycotting Elsevier, and Nature listed Sci-Hub creator Alexandra Elbakyan among its "10 people who mattered in science for 2016."

• Technical discussions included converting ImplicitCAD models, challenges with dynamic range when modeling cylindrical nanometer-scale holes in materials, and using laser cutters for etching and engraving with different colors in SVG format.

• A comparison between fluorescent proteins mScarlet and mCherry in yeast was shared, with mScarlet showing superior performance as a red fluorescent protein.