# Summary of IRC Log Discussion (January 16, 2017)

* Research on blood aging was discussed, including a study showing that old blood has negative effects on young mice, particularly reducing neurogenesis in the brain by more than half, suggesting potential inhibitory factors in aged blood that might be targeted therapeutically.

* A paper titled "A single heterochronic blood exchange reveals rapid inhibition of multiple tissues by old blood" was shared, with discussion of Irina Conboy's research suggesting that many benefits of young blood might come from diluting inhibitors in old blood.

* Research on wood frogs that can freeze solid, thaw and survive was mentioned, with reference to a crowdfunded project to sequence the wood frog genome to understand the physiological and molecular adaptations enabling this rare overwintering strategy.

* Electrowetting technology was discussed in detail, including DIY approaches from GaudiLabs' OpenDrop project, which uses high voltage drivers, hydrophobic coatings like Rain-X, and PCB matrix designs to create digital microfluidic platforms.

* Several neuroscience papers were shared, including "A review and synthesis of the first 20 years of PET and fMRI studies of heard speech, spoken language and reading" and research on the Notch pathway's role in aging and muscle regeneration.

* The group critiqued Ambrosia's clinical trial design for young blood plasma transfusions, noting its lack of proper controls and $8,000 fee for participants, which would likely produce strong placebo effects that could mask actual results.