Right now @pnelson is going to discuss with them. I’ve also signaled if they want a different format, I (and I am sure @art) can accommodate them. At the moment, I’m sure that any exchange online would need to be on a protected thread, with only specific people allowed to post. This, of course, can be provided for here, or elsewhere.
As far as moderating, I’m not sure what is needed except the assurance that none of their contributions will be censored or edited, and only designated people are allowed to directly engage on their thread. I suppose also that they may wish to negotiate the scope. Within reason, I am okay with that. Perhaps, they prefer a different format. I’ve seen few formats better than our forum for getting to the bottom of technical topics. If they have a better idea, I will consider it.
At this point, as it has been for a long time, the ball is in their court. I’m insisting that the studious avoidance of legitimate dialogue with scientists raises serious questions about their integrity. I am hope I am wrong. However, this is not an issue specific to me, and they need not engage with me. Here, we have several qualified scientists, such as, for example, @Art. We can request other scientists to participate too, if they feel there is a misunderstanding on our end about some fundamental detail of the biology.
What ever concerns they have they can be raised and worked out. Avoiding studiously engagement, however, is not a trustworthy strategy. They are welcome to prove me wrong by choosing to engage. I would welcome it gladly, and ensure they are treated with respect here.