# Summary of IRC Log from #hplusroadmap (Jan 31, 2017)

* A discussion about automated MATLAB-to-Python conversion concluded that such automated conversion is "evidently hopeless," suggesting technical limitations in translating between these scientific computing platforms.

* A debate emerged regarding an article claiming the DIY/maker movement was being "hijacked" by right-wing nationalism, with participants generally disagreeing with this assessment and noting that the DIY bio community is largely incompatible with such political alignments.

* A paper on tsunami mitigation using "resonant triad interaction with acoustic-gravity waves" was shared, representing innovative approaches to disaster prevention through physics applications.

* Research on genetic editing was discussed, including a paper on "Efficient, footprint-free human iPSC genome editing by consolidation of Cas9/CRISPR and piggyBac technologies" which reported 40-50% indel mutation frequencies.

* A systematic comparison of error correction enzymes using next-generation sequencing was shared (from bioRxiv), relevant to DNA synthesis and genetic engineering accuracy.

* A genetic modification related to the ability to smell β-ionone (floral) fragrance was documented, specifically regarding the rs6591536 gene variant, showing the channel's interest in human genetic variations.

* A "ChipsEasy" smart electronic component organizer was discussed as a potentially useful tool for hardware projects, with suggestions for adding SD card backup functionality and other improvements.