@ eac63075:b4988b48

Since its creation in 2009, Bitcoin has symbolized innovation and resilience. However, from time to time, alarmist narratives arise about emerging technologies that could "break" its security. Among these, quantum computing stands out as one of the most recurrent. But does quantum computing truly threaten Bitcoin? And more importantly, what is the community doing to ensure the protocol remains invulnerable?

The answer, contrary to sensationalist headlines, is reassuring: Bitcoin is secure, and the community is already preparing for a future where quantum computing becomes a practical reality. Let’s dive into this topic to understand why the concerns are exaggerated and how the development of BIP-360 demonstrates that Bitcoin is one step ahead.

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What Is Quantum Computing, and Why Is Bitcoin Not Threatened?

Quantum computing leverages principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations that, in theory, could exponentially surpass classical computers—and it has nothing to do with what so-called “quantum coaches” teach to scam the uninformed. One of the concerns is that this technology could compromise two key aspects of Bitcoin’s security:

1. Wallets: These use elliptic curve algorithms (ECDSA) to protect private keys. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could deduce a private key from its public key.
2. Mining: This is based on the SHA-256 algorithm, which secures the consensus process. A quantum attack could, in theory, compromise the proof-of-work mechanism.

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Understanding Quantum Computing’s Attack Priorities

While quantum computing is often presented as a threat to Bitcoin, not all parts of the network are equally vulnerable. Theoretical attacks would be prioritized based on two main factors: ease of execution and potential reward. This creates two categories of attacks:

1. Attacks on Wallets

Bitcoin wallets, secured by elliptic curve algorithms, would be the initial targets due to the relative vulnerability of their public keys, especially those already exposed on the blockchain. Two attack scenarios stand out:

• Short-term attacks: These occur during the interval between sending a transaction and its inclusion in a block (approximately 10 minutes). A quantum computer could intercept the exposed public key and derive the corresponding private key to redirect funds by creating a transaction with higher fees.

• Long-term attacks: These focus on old wallets whose public keys are permanently exposed. Wallets associated with Satoshi Nakamoto, for example, are especially vulnerable because they were created before the practice of using hashes to mask public keys.

We can infer a priority order for how such attacks might occur based on urgency and importance.

Bitcoin Quantum Attack: Prioritization Matrix (Urgency vs. Importance)

2. Attacks on Mining

Targeting the SHA-256 algorithm, which secures the mining process, would be the next objective. However, this is far more complex and requires a level of quantum computational power that is currently non-existent and far from realization. A successful attack would allow for the recalculation of all possible hashes to dominate the consensus process and potentially "mine" it instantly.

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Satoshi Nakamoto in 2010 on Quantum Computing and Bitcoin Attacks

Recently, Narcelio asked me about a statement I made on Tubacast:

https://x.com/eddieoz/status/1868371296683511969

If an attack became a reality before Bitcoin was prepared, it would be necessary to define the last block prior to the attack and proceed from there using a new hashing algorithm. The solution would resemble the response to the infamous 2013 bug. It’s a fact that this would cause market panic, and Bitcoin's price would drop significantly, creating a potential opportunity for the well-informed.

Preferably, if developers could anticipate the threat and had time to work on a solution and build consensus before an attack, they would simply decide on a future block for the fork, which would then adopt the new algorithm. It might even rehash previous blocks (reaching consensus on them) to avoid potential reorganization through the re-mining of blocks using the old hash. (I often use the term "shielding" old transactions).

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How Can Users Protect Themselves?

While quantum computing is still far from being a practical threat, some simple measures can already protect users against hypothetical scenarios:

• Avoid using exposed public keys: Ensure funds sent to old wallets are transferred to new ones that use public key hashes. This reduces the risk of long-term attacks.
• Use modern wallets: Opt for wallets compatible with SegWit or Taproot, which implement better security practices.
• Monitor security updates: Stay informed about updates from the Bitcoin community, such as the implementation of BIP-360, which will introduce quantum-resistant addresses.
• Do not reuse addresses: Every transaction should be associated with a new address to minimize the risk of repeated exposure of the same public key.
• Adopt secure backup practices: Create offline backups of private keys and seeds in secure locations, protected from unauthorized access.

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BIP-360 and Bitcoin’s Preparation for the Future

Even though quantum computing is still beyond practical reach, the Bitcoin community is not standing still. A concrete example is BIP-360, a proposal that establishes the technical framework to make wallets resistant to quantum attacks.

BIP-360 addresses three main pillars:

1. Introduction of quantum-resistant addresses: A new address format starting with "BC1R" will be used. These addresses will be compatible with post-quantum algorithms, ensuring that stored funds are protected from future attacks.
2. Compatibility with the current ecosystem: The proposal allows users to transfer funds from old addresses to new ones without requiring drastic changes to the network infrastructure.
3. Flexibility for future updates: BIP-360 does not limit the choice of specific algorithms. Instead, it serves as a foundation for implementing new post-quantum algorithms as technology evolves.

This proposal demonstrates how Bitcoin can adapt to emerging threats without compromising its decentralized structure.

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Post-Quantum Algorithms: The Future of Bitcoin Cryptography

The community is exploring various algorithms to protect Bitcoin from quantum attacks. Among the most discussed are:

• Falcon: A solution combining smaller public keys with compact digital signatures. Although it has been tested in limited scenarios, it still faces scalability and performance challenges.
• Sphincs: Hash-based, this algorithm is renowned for its resilience, but its signatures can be extremely large, making it less efficient for networks like Bitcoin’s blockchain.
• Lamport: Created in 1977, it’s considered one of the earliest post-quantum security solutions. Despite its reliability, its gigantic public keys (16,000 bytes) make it impractical and costly for Bitcoin.

Two technologies show great promise and are well-regarded by the community:

1. Lattice-Based Cryptography: Considered one of the most promising, it uses complex mathematical structures to create systems nearly immune to quantum computing. Its implementation is still in its early stages, but the community is optimistic.
2. Supersingular Elliptic Curve Isogeny: These are very recent digital signature algorithms and require extensive study and testing before being ready for practical market use.

The final choice of algorithm will depend on factors such as efficiency, cost, and integration capability with the current system. Additionally, it is preferable that these algorithms are standardized before implementation, a process that may take up to 10 years.

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Why Quantum Computing Is Far from Being a Threat

The alarmist narrative about quantum computing overlooks the technical and practical challenges that still need to be overcome. Among them:

• Insufficient number of qubits: Current quantum computers have only a few hundred qubits, whereas successful attacks would require millions.
• High error rate: Quantum stability remains a barrier to reliable large-scale operations.
• High costs: Building and operating large-scale quantum computers requires massive investments, limiting their use to scientific or specific applications.

Moreover, even if quantum computers make significant advancements, Bitcoin is already adapting to ensure its infrastructure is prepared to respond.

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Conclusion: Bitcoin’s Secure Future

Despite advancements in quantum computing, the reality is that Bitcoin is far from being threatened. Its security is ensured not only by its robust architecture but also by the community’s constant efforts to anticipate and mitigate challenges.

The implementation of BIP-360 and the pursuit of post-quantum algorithms demonstrate that Bitcoin is not only resilient but also proactive. By adopting practical measures, such as using modern wallets and migrating to quantum-resistant addresses, users can further protect themselves against potential threats.

Bitcoin’s future is not at risk—it is being carefully shaped to withstand any emerging technology, including quantum computing.

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Based on a recent paper that included collaboration from renowned experts such as Lynn Alden, Steve Lee, and Ren Crypto Fish, we discuss in depth how Bitcoin's consensus is built, the main risks, and the complex dynamics of protocol upgrades.

PT-BR version

Podcast https://www.fountain.fm/episode/wbjD6ntQuvX5u2G5BccC

Presentation https://gamma.app/docs/Analyzing-Bitcoin-Consensus-Risks-in-Protocol-Upgrades-p66axxjwaa37ksn

1. Introduction to Consensus in Bitcoin

Consensus in Bitcoin is the foundation that keeps the network secure and functional, allowing users worldwide to perform transactions in a decentralized manner without the need for intermediaries. Since its launch in 2009, Bitcoin is often described as an "immutable" system designed to resist changes, and it is precisely this resistance that ensures its security and stability.

The central idea behind consensus in Bitcoin is to create a set of acceptance rules for blocks and transactions, ensuring that all network participants agree on the transaction history. This prevents "double-spending," where the same bitcoin could be used in two simultaneous transactions, something that would compromise trust in the network.

Evolution of Consensus in Bitcoin

Over the years, consensus in Bitcoin has undergone several adaptations, and the way participants agree on changes remains a delicate process. Unlike traditional systems, where changes can be imposed from the top down, Bitcoin operates in a decentralized model where any significant change needs the support of various groups of stakeholders, including miners, developers, users, and large node operators.

Moreover, the update process is extremely cautious, as hasty changes can compromise the network's security. As a result, the philosophy of "don't fix what isn't broken" prevails, with improvements happening incrementally and only after broad consensus among those involved. This model can make progress seem slow but ensures that Bitcoin remains faithful to the principles of security and decentralization.

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2. Technical Components of Consensus

Bitcoin's consensus is supported by a set of technical rules that determine what is considered a valid transaction and a valid block on the network. These technical aspects ensure that all nodes—the computers that participate in the Bitcoin network—agree on the current state of the blockchain. Below are the main technical components that form the basis of the consensus.

Validation of Blocks and Transactions

The validation of blocks and transactions is the central point of consensus in Bitcoin. A block is only considered valid if it meets certain criteria, such as maximum size, transaction structure, and the solving of the "Proof of Work" problem. The proof of work, required for a block to be included in the blockchain, is a computational process that ensures the block contains significant computational effort—protecting the network against manipulation attempts.

Transactions, in turn, need to follow specific input and output rules. Each transaction includes cryptographic signatures that prove the ownership of the bitcoins sent, as well as validation scripts that verify if the transaction conditions are met. This validation system is essential for network nodes to autonomously confirm that each transaction follows the rules.

Chain Selection

Another fundamental technical issue for Bitcoin's consensus is chain selection, which becomes especially important in cases where multiple versions of the blockchain coexist, such as after a network split (fork). To decide which chain is the "true" one and should be followed, the network adopts the criterion of the highest accumulated proof of work. In other words, the chain with the highest number of valid blocks, built with the greatest computational effort, is chosen by the network as the official one.

This criterion avoids permanent splits because it encourages all nodes to follow the same main chain, reinforcing consensus.

Soft Forks vs. Hard Forks

In the consensus process, protocol changes can happen in two ways: through soft forks or hard forks. These variations affect not only the protocol update but also the implications for network users:

• Soft Forks: These are changes that are backward compatible. Only nodes that adopt the new update will follow the new rules, but old nodes will still recognize the blocks produced with these rules as valid. This compatibility makes soft forks a safer option for updates, as it minimizes the risk of network division.

• Hard Forks: These are updates that are not backward compatible, requiring all nodes to update to the new version or risk being separated from the main chain. Hard forks can result in the creation of a new coin, as occurred with the split between Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash in 2017. While hard forks allow for deeper changes, they also bring significant risks of network fragmentation.

These technical components form the base of Bitcoin's security and resilience, allowing the system to remain functional and immutable without losing the necessary flexibility to evolve over time.

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3. Stakeholders in Bitcoin's Consensus

Consensus in Bitcoin is not decided centrally. On the contrary, it depends on the interaction between different groups of stakeholders, each with their motivations, interests, and levels of influence. These groups play fundamental roles in how changes are implemented or rejected on the network. Below, we explore the six main stakeholders in Bitcoin's consensus.

1. Economic Nodes

Economic nodes, usually operated by exchanges, custody providers, and large companies that accept Bitcoin, exert significant influence over consensus. Because they handle large volumes of transactions and act as a connection point between the Bitcoin ecosystem and the traditional financial system, these nodes have the power to validate or reject blocks and to define which version of the software to follow in case of a fork.

Their influence is proportional to the volume of transactions they handle, and they can directly affect which chain will be seen as the main one. Their incentive is to maintain the network's stability and security to preserve its functionality and meet regulatory requirements.

2. Investors

Investors, including large institutional funds and individual Bitcoin holders, influence consensus indirectly through their impact on the asset's price. Their buying and selling actions can affect Bitcoin's value, which in turn influences the motivation of miners and other stakeholders to continue investing in the network's security and development.

Some institutional investors have agreements with custodians that may limit their ability to act in network split situations. Thus, the impact of each investor on consensus can vary based on their ownership structure and how quickly they can react to a network change.

3. Media Influencers

Media influencers, including journalists, analysts, and popular personalities on social media, have a powerful role in shaping public opinion about Bitcoin and possible updates. These influencers can help educate the public, promote debates, and bring transparency to the consensus process.

On the other hand, the impact of influencers can be double-edged: while they can clarify complex topics, they can also distort perceptions by amplifying or minimizing change proposals. This makes them a force both of support and resistance to consensus.

4. Miners

Miners are responsible for validating transactions and including blocks in the blockchain. Through computational power (hashrate), they also exert significant influence over consensus decisions. In update processes, miners often signal their support for a proposal, indicating that the new version is safe to use. However, this signaling is not always definitive, and miners can change their position if they deem it necessary.

Their incentive is to maximize returns from block rewards and transaction fees, as well as to maintain the value of investments in their specialized equipment, which are only profitable if the network remains stable.

5. Protocol Developers

Protocol developers, often called "Core Developers," are responsible for writing and maintaining Bitcoin's code. Although they do not have direct power over consensus, they possess an informal veto power since they decide which changes are included in the main client (Bitcoin Core). This group also serves as an important source of technical knowledge, helping guide decisions and inform other stakeholders.

Their incentive lies in the continuous improvement of the network, ensuring security and decentralization. Many developers are funded by grants and sponsorships, but their motivations generally include a strong ideological commitment to Bitcoin's principles.

6. Users and Application Developers

This group includes people who use Bitcoin in their daily transactions and developers who build solutions based on the network, such as wallets, exchanges, and payment platforms. Although their power in consensus is less than that of miners or economic nodes, they play an important role because they are responsible for popularizing Bitcoin's use and expanding the ecosystem.

If application developers decide not to adopt an update, this can affect compatibility and widespread acceptance. Thus, they indirectly influence consensus by deciding which version of the protocol to follow in their applications.

These stakeholders are vital to the consensus process, and each group exerts influence according to their involvement, incentives, and ability to act in situations of change. Understanding the role of each makes it clearer how consensus is formed and why it is so difficult to make significant changes to Bitcoin.

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4. Mechanisms for Activating Updates in Bitcoin

For Bitcoin to evolve without compromising security and consensus, different mechanisms for activating updates have been developed over the years. These mechanisms help coordinate changes among network nodes to minimize the risk of fragmentation and ensure that updates are implemented in an orderly manner. Here, we explore some of the main methods used in Bitcoin, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as historical examples of significant updates.

Flag Day

The Flag Day mechanism is one of the simplest forms of activating changes. In it, a specific date or block is determined as the activation moment, and all nodes must be updated by that point. This method does not involve prior signaling; participants simply need to update to the new software version by the established day or block.

• Advantages: Simplicity and predictability are the main benefits of Flag Day, as everyone knows the exact activation date.

• Disadvantages: Inflexibility can be a problem because there is no way to adjust the schedule if a significant part of the network has not updated. This can result in network splits if a significant number of nodes are not ready for the update.

An example of Flag Day was the Pay to Script Hash (P2SH) update in 2012, which required all nodes to adopt the change to avoid compatibility issues.

BIP34 and BIP9

BIP34 introduced a more dynamic process, in which miners increase the version number in block headers to signal the update. When a predetermined percentage of the last blocks is mined with this new version, the update is automatically activated. This model later evolved with BIP9, which allowed multiple updates to be signaled simultaneously through "version bits," each corresponding to a specific change.

• Advantages: Allows the network to activate updates gradually, giving more time for participants to adapt.

• Disadvantages: These methods rely heavily on miner support, which means that if a sufficient number of miners do not signal the update, it can be delayed or not implemented.

BIP9 was used in the activation of SegWit (BIP141) but faced challenges because some miners did not signal their intent to activate, leading to the development of new mechanisms.

User Activated Soft Forks (UASF) and User Resisted Soft Forks (URSF)

To increase the decision-making power of ordinary users, the concept of User Activated Soft Fork (UASF) was introduced, allowing node operators, not just miners, to determine consensus for a change. In this model, nodes set a date to start rejecting blocks that are not in compliance with the new update, forcing miners to adapt or risk having their blocks rejected by the network.

URSF, in turn, is a model where nodes reject blocks that attempt to adopt a specific update, functioning as resistance against proposed changes.

• Advantages: UASF returns decision-making power to node operators, ensuring that changes do not depend solely on miners.

• Disadvantages: Both UASF and URSF can generate network splits, especially in cases of strong opposition among different stakeholders.

An example of UASF was the activation of SegWit in 2017, where users supported activation independently of miner signaling, which ended up forcing its adoption.

BIP8 (LOT=True)

BIP8 is an evolution of BIP9, designed to prevent miners from indefinitely blocking a change desired by the majority of users and developers. BIP8 allows setting a parameter called "lockinontimeout" (LOT) as true, which means that if the update has not been fully signaled by a certain point, it is automatically activated.

• Advantages: Ensures that changes with broad support among users are not blocked by miners who wish to maintain the status quo.

• Disadvantages: Can lead to network splits if miners or other important stakeholders do not support the update.

Although BIP8 with LOT=True has not yet been used in Bitcoin, it is a proposal that can be applied in future updates if necessary.

These activation mechanisms have been essential for Bitcoin's development, allowing updates that keep the network secure and functional. Each method brings its own advantages and challenges, but all share the goal of preserving consensus and network cohesion.

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5. Risks and Considerations in Consensus Updates

Consensus updates in Bitcoin are complex processes that involve not only technical aspects but also political, economic, and social considerations. Due to the network's decentralized nature, each change brings with it a set of risks that need to be carefully assessed. Below, we explore some of the main challenges and future scenarios, as well as the possible impacts on stakeholders.

Network Fragility with Alternative Implementations

One of the main risks associated with consensus updates is the possibility of network fragmentation when there are alternative software implementations. If an update is implemented by a significant group of nodes but rejected by others, a network split (fork) can occur. This creates two competing chains, each with a different version of the transaction history, leading to unpredictable consequences for users and investors.

Such fragmentation weakens Bitcoin because, by dividing hashing power (computing) and coin value, it reduces network security and investor confidence. A notable example of this risk was the fork that gave rise to Bitcoin Cash in 2017 when disagreements over block size resulted in a new chain and a new asset.

Chain Splits and Impact on Stakeholders

Chain splits are a significant risk in update processes, especially in hard forks. During a hard fork, the network is split into two separate chains, each with its own set of rules. This results in the creation of a new coin and leaves users with duplicated assets on both chains. While this may seem advantageous, in the long run, these splits weaken the network and create uncertainties for investors.

Each group of stakeholders reacts differently to a chain split:

• Institutional Investors and ETFs: Face regulatory and compliance challenges because many of these assets are managed under strict regulations. The creation of a new coin requires decisions to be made quickly to avoid potential losses, which may be hampered by regulatory constraints.

• Miners: May be incentivized to shift their computing power to the chain that offers higher profitability, which can weaken one of the networks.

• Economic Nodes: Such as major exchanges and custody providers, have to quickly choose which chain to support, influencing the perceived value of each network.

Such divisions can generate uncertainties and loss of value, especially for institutional investors and those who use Bitcoin as a store of value.

Regulatory Impacts and Institutional Investors

With the growing presence of institutional investors in Bitcoin, consensus changes face new compliance challenges. Bitcoin ETFs, for example, are required to follow strict rules about which assets they can include and how chain split events should be handled. The creation of a new asset or migration to a new chain can complicate these processes, creating pressure for large financial players to quickly choose a chain, affecting the stability of consensus.

Moreover, decisions regarding forks can influence the Bitcoin futures and derivatives market, affecting perception and adoption by new investors. Therefore, the need to avoid splits and maintain cohesion is crucial to attract and preserve the confidence of these investors.

Security Considerations in Soft Forks and Hard Forks

While soft forks are generally preferred in Bitcoin for their backward compatibility, they are not without risks. Soft forks can create different classes of nodes on the network (updated and non-updated), which increases operational complexity and can ultimately weaken consensus cohesion. In a network scenario with fragmentation of node classes, Bitcoin's security can be affected, as some nodes may lose part of the visibility over updated transactions or rules.

In hard forks, the security risk is even more evident because all nodes need to adopt the new update to avoid network division. Experience shows that abrupt changes can create temporary vulnerabilities, in which malicious agents try to exploit the transition to attack the network.

Bounty Claim Risks and Attack Scenarios

Another risk in consensus updates are so-called "bounty claims"—accumulated rewards that can be obtained if an attacker manages to split or deceive a part of the network. In a conflict scenario, a group of miners or nodes could be incentivized to support a new update or create an alternative version of the software to benefit from these rewards.

These risks require stakeholders to carefully assess each update and the potential vulnerabilities it may introduce. The possibility of "bounty claims" adds a layer of complexity to consensus because each interest group may see a financial opportunity in a change that, in the long term, may harm network stability.

The risks discussed above show the complexity of consensus in Bitcoin and the importance of approaching it gradually and deliberately. Updates need to consider not only technical aspects but also economic and social implications, in order to preserve Bitcoin's integrity and maintain trust among stakeholders.

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6. Recommendations for the Consensus Process in Bitcoin

To ensure that protocol changes in Bitcoin are implemented safely and with broad support, it is essential that all stakeholders adopt a careful and coordinated approach. Here are strategic recommendations for evaluating, supporting, or rejecting consensus updates, considering the risks and challenges discussed earlier, along with best practices for successful implementation.

1. Careful Evaluation of Proposal Maturity

Stakeholders should rigorously assess the maturity level of a proposal before supporting its implementation. Updates that are still experimental or lack a robust technical foundation can expose the network to unnecessary risks. Ideally, change proposals should go through an extensive testing phase, have security audits, and receive review and feedback from various developers and experts.

2. Extensive Testing in Secure and Compatible Networks

Before an update is activated on the mainnet, it is essential to test it on networks like testnet and signet, and whenever possible, on other compatible networks that offer a safe and controlled environment to identify potential issues. Testing on networks like Litecoin was fundamental for the safe launch of innovations like SegWit and the Lightning Network, allowing functionalities to be validated on a lower-impact network before being implemented on Bitcoin.

The Liquid Network, developed by Blockstream, also plays an important role as an experimental network for new proposals, such as OP_CAT. By adopting these testing environments, stakeholders can mitigate risks and ensure that the update is reliable and secure before being adopted by the main network.

3. Importance of Stakeholder Engagement

The success of a consensus update strongly depends on the active participation of all stakeholders. This includes economic nodes, miners, protocol developers, investors, and end users. Lack of participation can lead to inadequate decisions or even future network splits, which would compromise Bitcoin's security and stability.

4. Key Questions for Evaluating Consensus Proposals

To assist in decision-making, each group of stakeholders should consider some key questions before supporting a consensus change:

• Does the proposal offer tangible benefits for Bitcoin's security, scalability, or usability?
• Does it maintain backward compatibility or introduce the risk of network split?
• Are the implementation requirements clear and feasible for each group involved?
• Are there clear and aligned incentives for all stakeholder groups to accept the change?

5. Coordination and Timing in Implementations

Timing is crucial. Updates with short activation windows can force a split because not all nodes and miners can update simultaneously. Changes should be planned with ample deadlines to allow all stakeholders to adjust their systems, avoiding surprises that could lead to fragmentation.

Mechanisms like soft forks are generally preferable to hard forks because they allow a smoother transition. Opting for backward-compatible updates when possible facilitates the process and ensures that nodes and miners can adapt without pressure.

6. Continuous Monitoring and Re-evaluation

After an update, it's essential to monitor the network to identify problems or side effects. This continuous process helps ensure cohesion and trust among all participants, keeping Bitcoin as a secure and robust network.

These recommendations, including the use of secure networks for extensive testing, promote a collaborative and secure environment for Bitcoin's consensus process. By adopting a deliberate and strategic approach, stakeholders can preserve Bitcoin's value as a decentralized and censorship-resistant network.

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7. Conclusion

Consensus in Bitcoin is more than a set of rules; it's the foundation that sustains the network as a decentralized, secure, and reliable system. Unlike centralized systems, where decisions can be made quickly, Bitcoin requires a much more deliberate and cooperative approach, where the interests of miners, economic nodes, developers, investors, and users must be considered and harmonized. This governance model may seem slow, but it is fundamental to preserving the resilience and trust that make Bitcoin a global store of value and censorship-resistant.

Consensus updates in Bitcoin must balance the need for innovation with the preservation of the network's core principles. The development process of a proposal needs to be detailed and rigorous, going through several testing stages, such as in testnet, signet, and compatible networks like Litecoin and Liquid Network. These networks offer safe environments for proposals to be analyzed and improved before being launched on the main network.

Each proposed change must be carefully evaluated regarding its maturity, impact, backward compatibility, and support among stakeholders. The recommended key questions and appropriate timing are critical to ensure that an update is adopted without compromising network cohesion. It's also essential that the implementation process is continuously monitored and re-evaluated, allowing adjustments as necessary and minimizing the risk of instability.

By following these guidelines, Bitcoin's stakeholders can ensure that the network continues to evolve safely and robustly, maintaining user trust and further solidifying its role as one of the most resilient and innovative digital assets in the world. Ultimately, consensus in Bitcoin is not just a technical issue but a reflection of its community and the values it represents: security, decentralization, and resilience.

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8. Links

Whitepaper: https://github.com/bitcoin-cap/bcap

Youtube (pt-br): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rARycAibl9o&list=PL-qnhF0qlSPkfhorqsREuIu4UTbF0h4zb

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The future of physical money is at stake, and the discussion about DREX, the new digital currency planned by the Central Bank of Brazil, is gaining momentum. In a candid and intense conversation, Federal Deputy Julia Zanatta (PL/SC) discussed the challenges and risks of this digital transition, also addressing her Bill No. 3,341/2024, which aims to prevent the extinction of physical currency. This bill emerges as a direct response to legislative initiatives seeking to replace physical money with digital alternatives, limiting citizens' options and potentially compromising individual freedom. Let's delve into the main points of this conversation.

https://www.fountain.fm/episode/i5YGJ9Ors3PkqAIMvNQ0

(PT-BR version here)

What is a CBDC?

Before discussing the specifics of DREX, it’s important to understand what a CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency) is. CBDCs are digital currencies issued by central banks, similar to a digital version of physical money. Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, which operate in a decentralized manner, CBDCs are centralized and regulated by the government. In other words, they are digital currencies created and controlled by the Central Bank, intended to replace physical currency.

A prominent feature of CBDCs is their programmability. This means that the government can theoretically set rules about how, where, and for what this currency can be used. This aspect enables a level of control over citizens' finances that is impossible with physical money. By programming the currency, the government could limit transactions by setting geographical or usage restrictions. In practice, money within a CBDC could be restricted to specific spending or authorized for use in a defined geographical area.

In countries like China, where citizen actions and attitudes are also monitored, a person considered to have a "low score" due to a moral or ideological violation may have their transactions limited to essential purchases, restricting their digital currency use to non-essential activities. This financial control is strengthened because, unlike physical money, digital currency cannot be exchanged anonymously.

Practical Example: The Case of DREX During the Pandemic

To illustrate how DREX could be used, an example was given by Eric Altafim, director of Banco Itaú. He suggested that, if DREX had existed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the government could have restricted the currency’s use to a 5-kilometer radius around a person’s residence, limiting their economic mobility. Another proposed use by the executive related to the Bolsa Família welfare program: the government could set up programming that only allows this benefit to be used exclusively for food purchases. Although these examples are presented as control measures for safety or organization, they demonstrate how much a CBDC could restrict citizens' freedom of choice.

To illustrate the potential for state control through a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), such as DREX, it is helpful to look at the example of China. In China, the implementation of a CBDC coincides with the country’s Social Credit System, a governmental surveillance tool that assesses citizens' and companies' behavior. Together, these technologies allow the Chinese government to monitor, reward, and, above all, punish behavior deemed inappropriate or threatening to the government.

How Does China's Social Credit System Work?

Implemented in 2014, China's Social Credit System assigns every citizen and company a "score" based on various factors, including financial behavior, criminal record, social interactions, and even online activities. This score determines the benefits or penalties each individual receives and can affect everything from public transport access to obtaining loans and enrolling in elite schools for their children. Citizens with low scores may face various sanctions, including travel restrictions, fines, and difficulty in securing loans.

With the adoption of the CBDC — or “digital yuan” — the Chinese government now has a new tool to closely monitor citizens' financial transactions, facilitating the application of Social Credit System penalties. China’s CBDC is a programmable digital currency, which means that the government can restrict how, when, and where the money can be spent. Through this level of control, digital currency becomes a powerful mechanism for influencing citizens' behavior.

Imagine, for instance, a citizen who repeatedly posts critical remarks about the government on social media or participates in protests. If the Social Credit System assigns this citizen a low score, the Chinese government could, through the CBDC, restrict their money usage in certain areas or sectors. For example, they could be prevented from buying tickets to travel to other regions, prohibited from purchasing certain consumer goods, or even restricted to making transactions only at stores near their home.

Another example of how the government can use the CBDC to enforce the Social Credit System is by monitoring purchases of products such as alcohol or luxury items. If a citizen uses the CBDC to spend more than the government deems reasonable on such products, this could negatively impact their social score, resulting in additional penalties such as future purchase restrictions or a lowered rating that impacts their personal and professional lives.

In China, this kind of control has already been demonstrated in several cases. Citizens added to Social Credit System “blacklists” have seen their spending and investment capacity severely limited. The combination of digital currency and social scores thus creates a sophisticated and invasive surveillance system, through which the Chinese government controls important aspects of citizens’ financial lives and individual freedoms.

Deputy Julia Zanatta views these examples with great concern. She argues that if the state has full control over digital money, citizens will be exposed to a level of economic control and surveillance never seen before. In a democracy, this control poses a risk, but in an authoritarian regime, it could be used as a powerful tool of repression.

DREX and Bill No. 3,341/2024

Julia Zanatta became aware of a bill by a Workers' Party (PT) deputy (Bill 4068/2020 by Deputy Reginaldo Lopes - PT/MG) that proposes the extinction of physical money within five years, aiming for a complete transition to DREX, the digital currency developed by the Central Bank of Brazil. Concerned about the impact of this measure, Julia drafted her bill, PL No. 3,341/2024, which prohibits the elimination of physical money, ensuring citizens the right to choose physical currency.

“The more I read about DREX, the less I want its implementation,” says the deputy. DREX is a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), similar to other state digital currencies worldwide, but which, according to Julia, carries extreme control risks. She points out that with DREX, the State could closely monitor each citizen’s transactions, eliminating anonymity and potentially restricting freedom of choice. This control would lie in the hands of the Central Bank, which could, in a crisis or government change, “freeze balances or even delete funds directly from user accounts.”

Risks and Individual Freedom

Julia raises concerns about potential abuses of power that complete digitalization could allow. In a democracy, state control over personal finances raises serious questions, and EddieOz warns of an even more problematic future. “Today we are in a democracy, but tomorrow, with a government transition, we don't know if this kind of power will be used properly or abused,” he states. In other words, DREX gives the State the ability to restrict or condition the use of money, opening the door to unprecedented financial surveillance.

EddieOz cites Nigeria as an example, where a CBDC was implemented, and the government imposed severe restrictions on the use of physical money to encourage the use of digital currency, leading to protests and clashes in the country. In practice, the poorest and unbanked — those without regular access to banking services — were harshly affected, as without physical money, many cannot conduct basic transactions. Julia highlights that in Brazil, this situation would be even more severe, given the large number of unbanked individuals and the extent of rural areas where access to technology is limited.

The Relationship Between DREX and Pix

The digital transition has already begun with Pix, which revolutionized instant transfers and payments in Brazil. However, Julia points out that Pix, though popular, is a citizen’s choice, while DREX tends to eliminate that choice. The deputy expresses concern about new rules suggested for Pix, such as daily transaction limits of a thousand reais, justified as anti-fraud measures but which, in her view, represent additional control and a profit opportunity for banks. “How many more rules will banks create to profit from us?” asks Julia, noting that DREX could further enhance control over personal finances.

International Precedents and Resistance to CBDC

The deputy also cites examples from other countries resisting the idea of a centralized digital currency. In the United States, states like New Hampshire have passed laws to prevent the advance of CBDCs, and leaders such as Donald Trump have opposed creating a national digital currency. Trump, addressing the topic, uses a justification similar to Julia’s: in a digitalized system, “with one click, your money could disappear.” She agrees with the warning, emphasizing the control risk that a CBDC represents, especially for countries with disadvantaged populations.

Besides the United States, Canada, Colombia, and Australia have also suspended studies on digital currencies, citing the need for further discussions on population impacts. However, in Brazil, the debate on DREX is still limited, with few parliamentarians and political leaders openly discussing the topic. According to Julia, only she and one or two deputies are truly trying to bring this discussion to the Chamber, making DREX’s advance even more concerning.

Bill No. 3,341/2024 and Popular Pressure

For Julia, her bill is a first step. Although she acknowledges that ideally, it would prevent DREX's implementation entirely, PL 3341/2024 is a measure to ensure citizens' choice to use physical money, preserving a form of individual freedom. “If the future means control, I prefer to live in the past,” Julia asserts, reinforcing that the fight for freedom is at the heart of her bill.

However, the deputy emphasizes that none of this will be possible without popular mobilization. According to her, popular pressure is crucial for other deputies to take notice and support PL 3341. “I am only one deputy, and we need the public’s support to raise the project’s visibility,” she explains, encouraging the public to press other parliamentarians and ask them to “pay attention to PL 3341 and the project that prohibits the end of physical money.” The deputy believes that with a strong awareness and pressure movement, it is possible to advance the debate and ensure Brazilians’ financial freedom.

What’s at Stake?

Julia Zanatta leaves no doubt: DREX represents a profound shift in how money will be used and controlled in Brazil. More than a simple modernization of the financial system, the Central Bank’s CBDC sets precedents for an unprecedented level of citizen surveillance and control in the country. For the deputy, this transition needs to be debated broadly and transparently, and it’s up to the Brazilian people to defend their rights and demand that the National Congress discuss these changes responsibly.

The deputy also emphasizes that, regardless of political or partisan views, this issue affects all Brazilians. “This agenda is something that will affect everyone. We need to be united to ensure people understand the gravity of what could happen.” Julia believes that by sharing information and generating open debate, it is possible to prevent Brazil from following the path of countries that have already implemented a digital currency in an authoritarian way.

A Call to Action

The future of physical money in Brazil is at risk. For those who share Deputy Julia Zanatta’s concerns, the time to act is now. Mobilize, get informed, and press your representatives. PL 3341/2024 is an opportunity to ensure that Brazilian citizens have a choice in how to use their money, without excessive state interference or surveillance.

In the end, as the deputy puts it, the central issue is freedom. “My fear is that this project will pass, and people won’t even understand what is happening.” Therefore, may every citizen at least have the chance to understand what’s at stake and make their voice heard in defense of a Brazil where individual freedom and privacy are respected values.

@ 8fb140b4:f948000c

Embarking on the journey of operating your own Lightning node on the Bitcoin Layer 2 network is more than just a tech-savvy endeavor; it's a step into a realm of financial autonomy and cutting-edge innovation. By running a node, you become a vital part of a revolutionary movement that's reshaping how we think about money and digital transactions. This role not only offers a unique perspective on blockchain technology but also places you at the heart of a community dedicated to decentralization and network resilience. Beyond the technicalities, it's about embracing a new era of digital finance, where you contribute directly to the network's security, efficiency, and growth, all while gaining personal satisfaction and potentially lucrative rewards.

In essence, running your own Lightning node is a powerful way to engage with the forefront of blockchain technology, assert financial independence, and contribute to a more decentralized and efficient Bitcoin network. It's an adventure that offers both personal and communal benefits, from gaining in-depth tech knowledge to earning a place in the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency.

Running your own Lightning node for the Bitcoin Layer 2 network can be an empowering and beneficial endeavor. Here are 10 reasons why you might consider taking on this task:

1. Direct Contribution to Decentralization: Operating a node is a direct action towards decentralizing the Bitcoin network, crucial for its security and resistance to control or censorship by any single entity.

2. Financial Autonomy: Owning a node gives you complete control over your financial transactions on the network, free from reliance on third-party services, which can be subject to fees, restrictions, or outages.

3. Advanced Network Participation: As a node operator, you're not just a passive participant but an active player in shaping the network, influencing its efficiency and scalability through direct involvement.

4. Potential for Higher Revenue: With strategic management and optimal channel funding, your node can become a preferred route for transactions, potentially increasing the routing fees you can earn.

5. Cutting-Edge Technological Engagement: Running a node puts you at the forefront of blockchain and bitcoin technology, offering insights into future developments and innovations.

6. Strengthened Network Security: Each new node adds to the robustness of the Bitcoin network, making it more resilient against attacks and failures, thus contributing to the overall security of the ecosystem.

7. Personalized Fee Structures: You have the flexibility to set your own fee policies, which can balance earning potential with the service you provide to the network.

8. Empowerment Through Knowledge: The process of setting up and managing a node provides deep learning opportunities, empowering you with knowledge that can be applied in various areas of blockchain and fintech.

9. Boosting Transaction Capacity: By running a node, you help to increase the overall capacity of the Lightning Network, enabling more transactions to be processed quickly and at lower costs.

10. Community Leadership and Reputation: As an active node operator, you gain recognition within the Bitcoin community, which can lead to collaborative opportunities and a position of thought leadership in the space.

These reasons demonstrate the impactful and transformative nature of running a Lightning node, appealing to those who are deeply invested in the principles of bitcoin and wish to actively shape its future. Jump aboard, and embrace the journey toward full independence. 🐶🐾🫡🚀🚀🚀

@ 8fb140b4:f948000c

Chef's notes

Serving these two dishes together will create a delightful centerpiece for your Thanksgiving meal, offering a perfect blend of traditional flavors with a homemade touch.

Details

• ⏲️ Prep time: 30 min
• 🍳 Cook time: 1 - 2 hours
• 🍽️ Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (about 12-14 lbs), thawed and ready to cook
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 2-3 cloves of garlic
• Apple and Sage Stuffing
• 1 loaf of crusty bread, cut into cubes
• 2 apples, cored and chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Herb Butter: Mix the softened butter with the chopped thyme, rosemary, and sage. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Remove any giblets from the turkey and pat it dry. Loosen the skin and spread a generous amount of herb butter under and over the skin.
4. Add Aromatics: Inside the turkey cavity, place the quartered onion, lemon halves, and garlic cloves.
5. Roast: Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Tent with aluminum foil and roast. A general guideline is about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
7. Next: Apple and Sage Stuffing
8. Dry the Bread: Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and let them dry overnight, or toast them in the oven.
9. Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter and cook the onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
10. Combine Ingredients: Add the apples, sage, and bread cubes to the skillet. Stir in the chicken broth until the mixture is moist. Season with salt and pepper.
11. Bake: Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, until golden brown on top.

@ 8fb140b4:f948000c

Testing a brand new YakiHonne native client for iOS. Smooth as butter (not penis butter 🤣🍆🧈) with great visual experience and intuitive navigation. Amazing work by the team behind it! * lists * work

Bold text work!

Images could have used nostr.build instead of raw S3 from us-east-1 region.

Very impressive! You can even save the draft and continue later, before posting the long-form note!

🐶🐾🤯🤯🤯🫂💜

@ 8fb140b4:f948000c

As the title states, scratch behind my ear and you get it. 🐶🐾🫡

@ 8fb140b4:f948000c

Test Bounty Note

@ 8fb140b4:f948000c

Intro

This short tutorial will help you set up your own Nostr Wallet Connect (NWC) on your own LND Node that is not using Umbrel. If you are a user of Umbrel, you should use their version of NWC.

Requirements

You need to have a working installation of LND with established channels and connectivity to the internet. NWC in itself is fairly light and will not consume a lot of resources. You will also want to ensure that you have a working installation of Docker, since we will use a docker image to run NWC.

• Working installation of LND (and all of its required components)
• Docker (with Docker compose)

Installation

For the purpose of this tutorial, we will assume that you have your lnd/bitcoind running under user bitcoin with home directory /home/bitcoin. We will also assume that you already have a running installation of Docker (or docker.io).

Prepare and verify

git version - we will need git to get the latest version of NWC. docker version - should execute successfully and show the currently installed version of Docker. docker compose version - same as before, but the version will be different. ss -tupln | grep 10009- should produce the following output: tcp LISTEN 0 4096 0.0.0.0:10009 0.0.0.0: tcp LISTEN 0 4096 [::]:10009 [::]:**

For things to work correctly, your Docker should be version 20.10.0 or later. If you have an older version, consider installing a new one using instructions here: https://docs.docker.com/engine/install/

Create folders & download NWC

In the home directory of your LND/bitcoind user, create a new folder, e.g., "nwc" mkdir /home/bitcoin/nwc. Change to that directory cd /home/bitcoin/nwc and clone the NWC repository: git clone https://github.com/getAlby/nostr-wallet-connect.git

Creating the Docker image

In this step, we will create a Docker image that you will use to run NWC.

• Change directory to nostr-wallet-connect: cd nostr-wallet-connect
• Run command to build Docker image: docker build -t nwc:$(date +'%Y%m%d%H%M') -t nwc:latest . (there is a dot at the end)
• The last line of the output (after a few minutes) should look like => => naming to docker.io/library/nwc:latest
• nwc:latest is the name of the Docker image with a tag which you should note for use later.

Creating docker-compose.yml and necessary data directories

• Let's create a directory that will hold your non-volatile data (DB): mkdir data
• Indocker-compose.ymlfile, there are fields that you want to replace (<> comments) and port “4321” that you want to make sure is open (check with ss -tupln | grep 4321which should return nothing).
• Create docker-compose.ymlfile with the following content, and make sure to update fields that have <> comment:

version: "3.8" services: nwc: image: nwc:latest volumes: - ./data:/data - ~/.lnd:/lnd:ro ports: - "4321:8080" extra_hosts: - "localhost:host-gateway" environment: NOSTR_PRIVKEY: <use "openssl rand -hex 32" to generate a fresh key and place it inside ""> LN_BACKEND_TYPE: "LND" LND_ADDRESS: localhost:10009 LND_CERT_FILE: "/lnd/tls.cert" LND_MACAROON_FILE: "/lnd/data/chain/bitcoin/mainnet/admin.macaroon" DATABASE_URI: "/data/nostr-wallet-connect.db" COOKIE_SECRET: <use "openssl rand -hex 32" to generate fresh secret and place it inside ""> PORT: 8080 restart: always stop_grace_period: 1m

Starting and testing

Now that you have everything ready, it is time to start the container and test.

• While you are in the nwcdirectory (important), execute the following command and check the log output, docker compose up
• You should see container logs while it is starting, and it should not exit if everything went well.
• At this point, you should be able to go to http://<ip of the host where nwc is running>:4321 and get to the interface of NWC
• To stop the test run of NWC, simply press Ctrl-C , and it will shut the container down.
• To start NWC permanently, you should execute docker compose up -d , “-d” tells Docker to detach from the session.
• To check currently running NWC logs, execute docker compose logs to run it in tail mode add -f to the end.
• To stop the container, execute docker compose down

That's all, just follow the instructions in the web interface to get started.

Updating

As with any software, you should expect fixes and updates that you would need to perform periodically. You could automate this, but it falls outside of the scope of this tutorial. Since we already have all of the necessary configuration in place, the update execution is fairly simple.

• Change directory to the clone of the git repository, cd /home/bitcoin/nwc/nostr-wallet-connect
• Run command to build Docker image: docker build -t nwc:$(date +'%Y%m%d%H%M') -t nwc:latest . (there is a dot at the end)
• Change directory back one level cd ..
• Restart (stop and start) the docker compose config docker compose down && docker compose up -d
• Done! Optionally you may want to check the logs: docker compose logs

@ 6871d8df:4a9396c1

## 2024 Prediction Reflections

Politics

Democrats & 2024 Election

• “Democrats’ attempt to stifle democracy will likely put Trump in the White House. If not, some real sketchy stuff would need to happen to keep him out.”

This prediction was exactly right. The assassination attempt on Trump seemed to be the final blow for the Democrats. Despite a heavy push my legacy media, Trump won handily.

The Democrats switched to Kamala Harris after Biden showed signs of incapacity, most notably in the first debate against Trump.

My prediction for the election also turned out to be exactly right, which, thank you Robert Barnes and Richard Baris.

Evidence of Institutional Ideological Capture

• “People will continue to wake up to ideologically captured institutions, and DEI will be the main loser.”

Trump’s resounding election victory underscores that the public is increasingly aware of (and rejecting) such institutional capture.

Of note, Boeing comes to mind as an institution that had a tough time in 2024, in large part to DEI. Nothing seemed to function correctly. The biggest story being how they stranded people in space

Media & Public Opinion

Rise of Independent & Alternative Media

• “Independent and alternative media will continue to grow as people’s trust in legacy media declines.”

Twitter (X), under Elon Musk, shattered mainstream media’s influence far more than expected. As Elon has said, “You are the media now.” Alternative sources are king. - Notable Example: Kamala Harris’s decision not to appear on the Joe Rogan podcast contrasted with Trump’s appearance, further highlighting the power shift to alternative media.

Markets & IPOs

Interest Rates & Public Markets

• “As interest rates come down, I expect public markets and IPOs to heat up.”

This did not play out. Companies that were expected to go public in 2024 remain private in 2025. The reasons are varied, but there is confidence that 2025 might see changes.

Technology & AI

LLMs & AI Adoption

• “AI and LLMs will continue to move at a rapid rate, increasing productivity. Tools like Bard will become more mainstream.”

AI did take off. Usage among nontechnical users increased, and it’s no longer uncommon for people to default to AI-driven tools rather than Google search.

Decentralized AI

• “I hope to see a rise in decentralized AI to counter big-player LLMs.”

We didn’t see explicit ‘decentralized AI’ breakthroughs, but more players entered the AI market. ChatGPT still dominates, with Elon’s ‘Grok’ making moves. Google, Meta, and Microsoft remain active but slightly behind in usage.

Bitcoin & Digital Assets

Institutional Adoption of Bitcoin

• “2024 will bring more institutions to Bitcoin. Possibly another large company or nation-state. The ETF should help, likely pushing BTC to a new all-time high.”

No large public company or nation-state placed a bet, but smaller public companies did. Michael Saylor presented to Microsoft’s Board, which was the closest instance to a major move.
- Price Movement: Bitcoin did hit a new all-time high, rising to as much as $108k in 2024.

Lightning Network

• “Lightning will improve but remain primarily used for acquiring Bitcoin, not everyday payments.”

Still true. Lightning usage remains tiny relative to broader Bitcoin adoption.

Nostr Adoption

• “Nostr will grow, and we’ll see new companies leverage this network beyond just social media.”

Growth continues, but Elon Musk’s Twitter takeover slowed adoption. Nostr will remain niche until a major catalyst occurs (e.g., a big player joins or forced usage due to censorship).

Stablecoin-Specific Regulations

• “Expect stablecoin regulations in 2024 that’ll be favorable to them.”

This didn’t happen, largely due to the administration’s hostility. Expect potential change in 2025.

Miscellaneous 2024 Reflections

• Return to Sanity
  • 2024 felt like sanity prevailed, largely due to the Democrats’ collapse behind Biden and Harris and Elon’s Twitter dominance.
• Operation Chokepoint 2.0
  • Received a lot of attention, and I’m thankful it did because my experience at Strike was radicalizing and extreme.
• Bryan Johnson & Anti-Aging
  • He burst onto the scene with his obsession over biomarkers. I see it as misguided—chasing markers in isolation doesn’t automatically yield a healthy system.
• Apple’s Rough Year
  • Without a visionary leader, Apple appears to be scraping by on existing products rather than innovating.
• Google Under Fire
  • Google is in a tough fight with the government, just as it seems they’re on their heels with AI competition.

---

2025 Predictions

1. Bitcoin’s Performance Bitcoin will have a good year, but not better than 2024. To beat 2024, it must close above 206k on December 31, 2025. I’ll take the under on that.

   • I am not ruling out it to be over that at some point in 2025.

2. Twitter’s Success Continues to Stunt nostr

3. Nostr adoption will stay slow due to Elon’s dominant influence with X (Twitter).
   • As long as it remains a beacon of free speech, I doubt we see an exodus.

4. Rumble integrating Tether might help if they allow Nostr-like features (zaps), but that seems unlikely.

5. Apple

6. Apple will continue its rent-seeking behavior and put out underwhelming products.

7. Google’s Quantum & AI

8. Recent buzz about Google’s quantum chip and AI improvements won’t pan out as a big deal.

9. Google will continue to trail OpenAI and xAI in practical LLM usage.

10. Elon, Vivek & DOGE

11. I expect them to deliver more than critics think. They’ll expose bloat and inefficiencies in ways that will shake up norms. I greatly welcome this. I wouldn’t bet against them.

12. Mainstream Media Reckoning

13. In Trump’s second term, mainstream news outlets will face a real reckoning, as I can’t see how their bias can continue.
14. They’ll have to reduce their bias or risk bankruptcy.

15. Alternative media’s growth trend continues, especially as Twitter keeps exposing mainstream outlets’ weaknesses.

16. RFK Delivers

17. We will see big changes in the health space due to RFK at HHS. These are changes that I am very excited to see.

18. Foreign Policy

19. With the transition to Trump, I expect some foreign policy wins that will buck the establishment but will deliver wins that are not thought possible by the “experts.”

---

Closing Note

• Overall 2024: It was a year of major political upheaval, vindication for Bitcoin, and continued AI advances.
• Outlook for 2025: Bitcoin remains strong, AI competition heats up, and media institutions face existential challenges. I’m optimistic for continued decentralization and a more level playing field across tech, finance, and politics. I think the start of Trump’s second term will be very strong for the market, health, and culture. Accelerate.

@ 3197ad60:7a122b95

I feel like the new year is slowly starting to settle in. That doesn’t mean I’m off to the races. I still intend to take the whole month (or as long as it takes, really) to make plans and carefully set a course forward. I’m not rushing it, I’m letting it all set, like tea leaves at the bottom of a glass.

I still draw daily (I’m around day 193 now), but the nature of the drawing seems to have changed. Instead of using colours and taking time to capture light and mood, I only seem to be interested in quick line sketches, the quicker, the better.

They go well with being slightly absent-minded, which I am, in a nice way. Instead of looking around for inspiration, I turn to the books I’m reading and just sketch scenes that stay with me.

All drawings in this post are based on The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown, one of the many tasty books I was gifted for Christmas. I’m adding the sketches in the order they were made because it’s kind of funny how the characters emerge. I didn’t plan for the main character to have short light hair, but somehow she does.

The book lends itself perfectly to easy sketching; the characters are not very complicated, but they are described with a lot of visual clues, and the story moves from location to location, leaving clear images in my mind.

It’s pretty clear who’s the bad guy and who’s not, and it was a good exercise to try to show that in a sketch. There is also a lot of movement in the story, with characters being surprised by the events and having to run/ hide/ escape and confront each other.

There are a lot of doors, many different locations and a good dose of time travelling. I don’t think I ever drew a time-travelling kind of scene before, so of course, I had to try. I used the hairstyle, a piece of clothing and a bit of colour to show the same person at two points in time but also in the same room. Did it work?

Recently, I’ve been really into the black and white illustrations in young adult, early reader, and chapter books. I love their simplicity and how much they can convey with a line drawing. I will hang around in that space for a bit, with my quick sketches.

I started a new book, funnily enough also about doors, so I might share more sketches soon.

Thanks for reading.

x

M

@ 554ab6fe:c6cbc27e

Abstract

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that depression is becoming a major health concern for the modern world. Given the multitude of stressors advanced civilization provides, people are increasingly ruminating over the past and future. These repetitive non-constructive thoughts provide stress both in the mind and physically manifest itself in our bodily systems, deteriorating our health on multiple fronts. Not only are cases of depression increasing, but many seem to be resistant to current forms of treatment. These treatments include both pharmaceutical and therapeutic methods. Clinicians need to begin taking a serious look at alternate forms of treatment so they can become more equipped to treat patients with depression. Mindfulness meditation is the practice of focusing one’s thoughts entirely on the body itself and trains the mind to forgo all other extraneous thoughts. This technique not only provides the body an immediate sensation of safety and relaxation, but trains the individual to have better control over repetitive unhealthy thoughts. The more frequent feeling of relaxation coupled with the ability to subdue one’s own rumination decreases the body’s activation of its defense protocols. These defenses, also known as the sympathetic nervous system, when activated too frequently can be extremely detrimental to one’s physical and mental health and is strongly correlated to stress and depression. Much research involving mindfulness meditation has shown that it increases one’s ability to have thought control and decreases sympathetic nervous system activity. This is coupled with a heightened awareness of one’s own body, leading to a general increase in self perception and wellbeing. Dramatically reducing the occurrence of stress and depression. The body of meditation research requires further attention. In particular, studies require more standardized forms of meditation methods and an improvement of experimental design to increase statistical significance. That being said, given the effect mindfulness meditation has on depression, it should be viewed as a potential replacement for the treatment of depression through antidepressants. Antidepressants have a large list of potential side effects, are at times shown to be no more effective than a placebo, and have no evidence of preventing depression once treatment has been terminated. Meditation being costless and side effect free, if truly effective, would be a far more ethical and responsible treatment methods for physicians and therapist to prescribe.

Introduction

This paper will review existing literature discussing meditation and its potentially remedial effects on depression. It will argue that by providing increased ability to control and recognize non-constructive thoughts, meditation can decrease stress, thereby helping individuals with clinical depression. It is projected that by 2020, depression will become the second most common mental health issue (Kenny & Williams, 2007). Collectively, stress and depression-related symptoms account for a majority of visits to primary care physicians (Greeson et al., 2018). These disorders have become extremely prevalent and are extremely costly for individuals and the entire health care system (Greeson et al., 2018). That being said, it has been shown that 40% of depression patients are resistant to current treatment methods (Kenny & Williams, 2007), demonstrating that the entire system of treating depression is largely wasteful and inefficient, placing an unnecessary burden on society. Therefore, it is crucial that alternative approaches to treatment are explored. When looking at potential treatment methods for depression, it is important to first consider the underlying causes.

Depression is a complex mental issue that can manifest itself in a variety of different ways, and can stem from a large number of causes. That being said, there appears to be a distinct connection between stress and depression. Researchers have found that repetitive, non-constructive thoughts can lead to depression, and that individuals with acute stress-induced behaviors and hormonal changes have very similar symptoms to those suffering from depression (Watkins, 2008; Kasala et al., 2014). These symptoms commonly include hypercortisolism, which is a rise in cortisol levels due to an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity. Hypercortisolism can lead to high blood pressure, impaired immune function by decreasing cytokine count, poor antibody response, high blood sugar, increased renal retention of sodium, to name a few (Spreng, 2000; Godbout & Glaser, 2006; Kasala et al., 2014). In short, it is a condition that is extremely detrimental to overall health. Neurologically speaking, the relationship between stress and depression can be attributed partly to atrophy of the hippocampus, which is caused by high levels of stress induced glucocorticoid release (Annells et al., 2016).

Modern life is full of stressful situations. People tend to spend large portions of their day ruminating over the past and forecasting for the future. Often, these thoughts bring about worry and regret. Human beings evolved with a “fight or flight” defense response regulated by the sympathetic nervous system in order to protect themselves from physical harm. In modern life, these physical threats are being replaced by mental threats brought upon by our own projections of the past and future (Kuchel & Kuchel, 1991). Not ruminating over such thoughts has been shown to decrease sympathetic nervous system activity (vanOyen Witvliet et al., 2011). There is also a relationship between general cognitive load, and increased sympathetic activity (Mizuno et al., 2011). Therefore, it is of no surprise that high levels of sympathetic nervous system activity is present in cases of major depression (Veith et al., 1994).

The author hypothesizes that treatment methods involving improved thought control can remove stressful thoughts, thereby reducing depressive symptoms. These changes in thought patterns will have an effect on increasing parasympathetic nervous system tone and related neurotransmitters, thereby drawing a link between the cognitive skill of removing unconstructive thoughts and the reduction of stress and depression. Alongside this, the general act of meditation causes the body to feel more relaxed and decreases the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, bringing cortisol to lower levels, which increases general health and well-being. These skills will prove not only applicable to patients for depression, but also to any individual suffering from repetitive non-constructive thoughts that hinder their daily function and worsen their bodily health. This paper, through the lens of existing literature, will explore the connection between meditation’s ability to improve thought control and its promise as a treatment for depression.

Mindfulness Meditation and the Skills Provided

This paper will primarily focus on one of many forms of meditation: mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation is the practice of focusing attention on a single entity, such as one’s breath, in order to take attention away from other, potentially non-constructive thoughts (Wielgosz et al., 2019). Focusing on body and breath in a calm and accepting manner also provides the mind with a sense of safety (Esch, 2014). This technique allows an individual to have an increased awareness of their emotions, and greater control over their thoughts (Barnhofer et al., 2009). Meditation has been shown to increase brain plasticity in the regions used (Lazar et al., 2005). Given the existence of use-dependent brain plasticity, it can be presumed that as meditators use these techniques during their practice, they will also be more easily able to use them in everyday life (Giuliani et al., 2011; Esch, 2014). For example, attention regulation is related to the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) which is shown to have an increased function in those who practice mindfulness meditation (Rubia, 2009; Hölzel et al., 2011; Lutz, Antoine,Jha, Amishi P.,Dunne, John D.,Saron, 2015). Not only do meditators have increased attention regulation, but they are capable of having greater control of removing irrelevant thoughts. These repetitive thoughts, in the case of depression, usually manifest themselves as negative thoughts regarding their mental condition, poor mood, lack of belief in themselves and an over analysis regarding the consequence and meaning of life events coupled with the expectation of negative outcomes (Watkins, 2008). This is supported by the evidence that alpha bands, which play a role in processing irrelevant information, are faster and significantly more present in those who commonly practice mindfulness meditation (Foxe & Snyder, 2011). Meditation also effects the right amygdala, which is related to the processing of emotions. Reducing depression through the use of SSRIs is partly done by the suppression of right amygdala activity. Those who meditate have reduced right amygdala activity during meditation, and a change in activity was also observed when the subject was no longer meditating (Annells et al., 2016). This indicates that meditation provides more adequate emotional control over incoming stressors, and can potentially act as a replacement for antidepressants. Meditation grants the general awareness and control of emotions, alleviating the body from feeling in danger while granting the individual the ability to recognize unhealthy ruminations and clear them from their thought stream.

The Physiologic Responses of Mindfulness Meditation

The benefit of thought control is evident when analyzing the result of experiments involving mindfulness meditation. Increases sympathetic nervous system activity is present within depression (Veith et al., 1994). Those who have increased mindfulness show decreased stress and a faster recovery from it (Greeson et al., 2018; Gamaiunova et al., 2019). In these individuals, there is a noticeable reduction in sympathetic activity and responsivity, coupled with an increase in parasympathetic nervous system tone (Hoffman et al., 1982; Esch, 2014). This means the body of a meditator shifts away from activating stressful, fight or flight systems, and relaxed state processes begin to dominate. Stress related neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and cortisol are also shown to be less present in individuals that practice meditation (Esch et al., 2007; Esch, 2014). This also indicates that meditation has a general effect on physical health. As previously stated, high levels of cortisol have serious effects on bodily health; thus, lessening cortisol will provide general well-being, as well as the cognitive benefits discussed above. Chronic stress has been connected to lower acetylcholine levels. Interestingly enough, the breath of meditators has elevated nitric oxide levels. Presumably because there are higher levels of acetylcholine and morphine, which both increase the activity of oxide-producing enzymes (Esch, 2014). Dopamine is often related inversely to the presence of depression, and it too has been shown to increase amongst those who practice meditation (Dailly et al., 2004; Jung et al., 2010; Esch, 2014). It is also has been suggested that the increase in internalized attention during mediation, triggers activity in brain regions such as the left frontal cortex that are related to positive emotions (Rubia, 2009). This, coupled with the general health benefits of decreasing sympathetic activity and cortisol levels, is likely the reason why meditators often express a general higher satisfaction with their life and are more content (Esch et al., 2007). That being said, meditators also have a higher awareness of their own health. Meditators show an increase use of the ACC and insula, signifying that they have a greater means of modulating the self, alongside pain perception and anticipation. It is theorized that this increase in awareness grants the individual a sense of responsibility to improve their health (Esch, 2014). There is likely a feedback loops that occurs when one meditates: the individual decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, thereby increasing their health and wellbeing, while also gaining a higher perception of their health that results in further attention and improvement.

The Missing Component

Many metanalytical papers have attempted to synthesize the findings of mediation research. Many conclude, as this paper does, that the main neuronal mechanism of mindfulness generally involves: attention regulation of the body and mind, nonreactivity to experiences, and changes of self-perception (Hölzel et al., 2011; Esch, 2014; Wielgosz et al., 2019). Even though the effects on the autonomic nervous system are discussed, they are seemingly ignored as a key factor contributing to the higher quality of life and state of mind experienced by those that practice meditation. That being said, authors neglect to mention that there are two different arguments being put forth. The first is that people who meditate are, at that moment, putting themselves in a peaceful and quiet mindset that makes the body feel safe, thereby increasing parasympathetic nervous system activity (Esch, 2014). The second is that it is the skills learned from the meditation that allow for individuals to remove the unconstructive thoughts in the face of stressful situations, thereby preventing an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity. Of course, these two mechanisms may both occur, and perhaps due to the change in brain plasticity, the practices of stress relief during meditation aids the patient in using those same skill in everyday life. However, this distinction is key not only for general scientific understanding, but also for future research.

The existence of the two possible mechanisms suggests the need for further investigation. Researchers, rather than observing the improvement in self-reported depression scores, should be focusing on changes in autonomic nervous system changes. To differentiate between the two mechanisms, researchers should monitor autonomic nervous system activity during the act of meditation and after a series of prolonged practices. This type of experiment could ascertain whether or not the bulk of decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity and increase in parasympathetic nervous system activity occurs at the moment of meditation, or afterwards through the skills obtained. Perhaps the two systems change at different times, or the changes are evenly distributed across both events. Either way, this type of experiment seems necessary to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in treating depression. Furthermore, these distinctions are important in determining which techniques of mindfulness meditation provide the best results.

Criticisms

A key criticism of meditation research is that the method of meditation used in the studies is not constant. There are many forms of meditation practiced around the world, and many have different purposes. The most traditional and commonly practiced forms of meditation involve focusing attention on a single thing, which makes the research of mindfulness meditation particularly difficult because many will consider a wide range of practices to fall under the classification of mindfulness meditation. Even in this paper, that focuses exclusively on mindfulness meditation research, papers were presented that consider Tai Chi as inclusive to that criteria (Esch et al., 2007). Given the coordination of movements and the need for an instructor, Tai Chi can hardly be classified as a means of training thought control. Nonetheless, that example is quite extreme and most mindfulness-based meditation research involves one of these 4 types: traditional meditation, meditation in a clinical setting, mindfulness in a transient state and mindfulness as a dispositional trait (Chiesa et al., 2014). Despite the similarities, these all have vast differences in terms of how the meditation is practiced. For example, traditional meditation is done alone, and a more silent environment helps an individual focus on their breath. In a clinical setting, researchers conduct mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), in which the meditation is done in a group setting led by a teacher (Kenny & Williams, 2007). In this particular study of Kenny and Williams 2007, patients were also assigned homework of 1 hour of practice per day of yoga or meditation. Even though yoga is traditionally a physical form of mindfulness meditation, it is not in western cultures. In western cultures, Yoga becomes more a practice of listening to an instructor and stretching, which is not conducive to focusing solely on the breath. This highlights the difficulty of deciding whether or not the benefits of meditation come from the practice itself or the skills learned from it, since all of these studies use methods of meditation that vaguely resemble one another in practice. If all studies use different forms of meditation, then no matter how similar the results across studies are, there is no clear conclusion on the mechanism by which these changes occur. An obvious solution to this problem is to create a method of meditation that is traditionally used by all meditators, and to have many studies done all using the same method. Since it would be hard to mandate all researchers to use the same procedures, another option is to conduct more research on the meditators’ brain activity at the time of meditation. Perhaps these observations would shed more light on the neurological processes occurring during meditation, and these results would hopefully suggest which techniques provide the same types of skills and mental processes. That being said, it is also important for researchers to consider the mechanism by which the skills of thought control are brought about before the initiation of the experiment. Practices like Thai Chi and Yoga being from eastern cultures does not classify them as mindfulness meditation and effective procedures to promote thought control.

The conclusions of some experiments discussed in this paper need to be taken with skepticism. Many studies are conducted with small sample sizes (Kenny & Williams, 2007; Barnhofer et al., 2009; Kasala et al., 2014). There are even studies, such as the Kenny and Williams study in 2007 discussed above that do not have a control group or any other group to make a comparison to. They even allowed the patients to take their regular medications for their disorders. This, alongside the absence of a control group, makes it extremely difficult to scientifically show that the MBCT was the reason for the decrease in depression scores at all. While other studies had a well-constructed design, most studies that conduct a T-test or ANOVA in their analysis fail to show that their data is normally distributed (Kenny & Williams, 2007; Barnhofer et al., 2009; Greeson et al., 2018). A normal distribution of data is a key assumption for both of these commonly used statistical test, and without proper proof of normality, the results of these test are questionable at best. Sadly, much of scientific literature contains these forms of statistical errors (Halsey et al., 2015). Though these flaws are not present in all mindfulness meditation experiments, the use of these studies as concrete evidence of its effectiveness is rightfully scrutinized. Most studies tend to have similar results, which suggests that mindfulness meditation effects depression. Nonetheless, given the design flaws of experiments and inconsistency in meditation methods, these studies should be used more as an indicator of the existence of a relationship between mindfulness meditation and depression than evidence that such a relationship exists. Much more diligent and thorough work is required for there to be scientific validity, and the ability to claim that meditation is truly a useful method of treatment. To start, many of these experiments should be repeated with improvements to their design, such as including control groups and more consistent methods of mediation, in order to validate the significance of their p-values. This will provide much more statistically significant evidence suggesting that mindfulness meditation is the true cause of the alleviation of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Despite the lack of concrete evidence and methods, there is a case to adopt this practice sooner rather than later. Given most experiments involving mindfulness meditation and its effects on depression share similar results, it is reasonable to assume that there is some true effect mindfulness meditation has on alleviating the disorder. The aim of the physician should be to provide a patient that has emotional challenges the tools and skills needed to manage and subdue the unhealthy habits of thinking on their own. Traditionally, this method is through the use of pharmaceutical drugs that act to change brain chemistry. This is not only a costly expense on the individual, but there is growing evidence suggesting that many antidepressants are not much more effective than a placebo (Kirsch et al., 2002; Antonuccio et al., 2002). Not only that, but antidepressant have numerous negative long-term side effects, such as withdrawals, sexual problems, weight gain and becoming emotionally numb (Masand & Gupta, 2002; Cartwright et al., 2016). There is also no publish evidence to claim that antidepressants reduce the risk of depression once the treatment has ended (Annells et al., 2016). Therefore, antidepressants should not be thought of as a viable clinical solution in the long-run. Meditation on the other hand is completely free, and can be a useful practice in an individual’s personal life. Given its simplicity, it is also void of negative side effects, and in that sense is a much more ethical and risk-averse form of treatment from a clinical standpoint. Therefore, it is prudent that the scientific community give increased attention to meditation research, so that we can further understand its benefits and perfect its techniques, to potentially help all those who suffer from depression in a safe and cost-effective manner.

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Abstract There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that depression is becoming a major health concern for the modern world. Given the multitude of stressors advanced civilization provides, people are increasingly ruminating over the past and future. These repetitive non-constructive thoughts provide stress both in the mind and physically manifest itself in our bodily systems, deteriorating our health on multiple fronts. Not only are cases of depression increasing, but many seem to be resistant to current forms of treatment. These treatments include both pharmaceutical and therapeutic methods. Clinicians need to begin taking a serious look at alternate forms of treatment so they can become more equipped to treat patients with depression. Mindfulness meditation is the practice of focusing one’s thoughts entirely on the body itself and trains the mind to forgo all other extraneous thoughts. This technique not only provides the body an immediate sensation of safety and relaxation, but trains the individual to have better control over repetitive unhealthy thoughts. The more frequent feeling of relaxation coupled with the ability to subdue one’s own rumination decreases the body’s activation of its defense protocols. These defenses, also known as the sympathetic nervous system, when activated too frequently can be extremely detrimental to one’s physical and mental health and is strongly correlated to stress and depression. Much research involving mindfulness meditation has shown that it increases one’s ability to have thought control and decreases sympathetic nervous system activity. This is coupled with a heightened awareness of one’s own body, leading to a general increase in self perception and wellbeing. Dramatically reducing the occurrence of stress and depression.  The body of meditation research requires further attention. In particular, studies require more standardized forms of meditation methods and an improvement of experimental design to increase statistical significance. That being said, given the effect mindfulness meditation has on depression, it should be viewed as a potential replacement for the treatment of depression through antidepressants. Antidepressants have a large list of potential side effects, are at times shown to be no more effective than a placebo, and have no evidence of preventing depression once treatment has been terminated. Meditation being costless and side effect free, if truly effective, would be a far more ethical and responsible treatment methods for physicians and therapist to prescribe.

Introduction

This paper will review existing literature discussing meditation and its potentially remedial effects on depression. It will argue that by providing increased ability to control and recognize non-constructive thoughts, meditation can decrease stress, thereby helping individuals with clinical depression. It is projected that by 2020, depression will become the second most common mental health issue (Kenny & Williams, 2007). Collectively, stress and depression-related symptoms account for a majority of visits to primary care physicians (Greeson et al., 2018). These disorders have become extremely prevalent and are extremely costly for individuals and the entire health care system (Greeson et al., 2018). That being said, it has been shown that 40% of depression patients are resistant to current treatment methods (Kenny & Williams, 2007), demonstrating that the entire system of treating depression is largely wasteful and inefficient, placing an unnecessary burden on society. Therefore, it is crucial that alternative approaches to treatment are explored. When looking at potential treatment methods for depression, it is important to first consider the underlying causes. 

Depression is a complex mental issue that can manifest itself in a variety of different ways, and can stem from a large number of causes. That being said, there appears to be a distinct connection between stress and depression. Researchers have found that repetitive, non-constructive thoughts can lead to depression, and that individuals with acute stress-induced behaviors and hormonal changes have very similar symptoms to those suffering from depression (Watkins, 2008; Kasala et al., 2014). These symptoms commonly include hypercortisolism, which is a rise in cortisol levels due to an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity. Hypercortisolism can lead to high blood pressure, impaired immune function by decreasing cytokine count, poor antibody response, high blood sugar, increased renal retention of sodium, to name a few (Spreng, 2000; Godbout & Glaser, 2006; Kasala et al., 2014). In short, it is a condition that is extremely detrimental to overall health. Neurologically speaking, the relationship between stress and depression can be attributed partly to atrophy of the hippocampus, which is caused by high levels of stress induced glucocorticoid release (Annells et al., 2016).

Modern life is full of stressful situations. People tend to spend large portions of their day ruminating over the past and forecasting for the future. Often, these thoughts bring about worry and regret. Human beings evolved with a “fight or flight” defense response regulated by the sympathetic nervous system in order to protect themselves from physical harm. In modern life, these physical threats are being replaced by mental threats brought upon by our own projections of the past and future (Kuchel & Kuchel, 1991). Not ruminating over such thoughts has been shown to decrease sympathetic nervous system activity (vanOyen Witvliet et al., 2011). There is also a relationship between general cognitive load, and increased sympathetic activity (Mizuno et al., 2011). Therefore, it is of no surprise that high levels of sympathetic nervous system activity is present in cases of major depression (Veith et al., 1994).

The author hypothesizes that treatment methods involving improved thought control can remove stressful thoughts, thereby reducing depressive symptoms. These changes in thought patterns will have an effect on increasing parasympathetic nervous system tone and related neurotransmitters, thereby drawing a link between the cognitive skill of removing unconstructive thoughts and the reduction of stress and depression. Alongside this, the general act of meditation causes the body to feel more relaxed and decreases the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, bringing cortisol to lower levels, which increases general health and well-being. These skills will prove not only applicable to patients for depression, but also to any individual suffering from repetitive non-constructive thoughts that hinder their daily function and worsen their bodily health. This paper, through the lens of existing literature, will explore the connection between meditation’s ability to improve thought control and its promise as a treatment for depression.

Mindfulness Meditation and the Skills Provided

This paper will primarily focus on one of many forms of meditation: mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation is the practice of focusing attention on a single entity, such as one’s breath, in order to take attention away from other, potentially non-constructive thoughts (Wielgosz et al., 2019). Focusing on body and breath in a calm and accepting manner also provides the mind with a sense of safety (Esch, 2014). This technique allows an individual to have an increased awareness of their emotions, and greater control over their thoughts (Barnhofer et al., 2009). Meditation has been shown to increase brain plasticity in the regions used (Lazar et al., 2005). Given the existence of use-dependent brain plasticity, it can be presumed that as meditators use these techniques during their practice, they will also be more easily able to use them in everyday life (Giuliani et al., 2011; Esch, 2014). For example, attention regulation is related to the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) which is shown to have an increased function in those who practice mindfulness meditation (Rubia, 2009; Hölzel et al., 2011; Lutz, Antoine,Jha, Amishi P.,Dunne, John D.,Saron, 2015). Not only do meditators have increased attention regulation, but they are capable of having greater control of removing irrelevant thoughts. These repetitive thoughts, in the case of depression, usually manifest themselves as negative thoughts regarding their mental condition, poor mood, lack of belief in themselves and an over analysis regarding the consequence and meaning of life events coupled with the expectation of negative outcomes (Watkins, 2008). This is supported by the evidence that alpha bands, which play a role in processing irrelevant information, are faster and significantly more present in those who commonly practice mindfulness meditation (Foxe & Snyder, 2011). Meditation also effects the right amygdala, which is related to the processing of emotions. Reducing depression through the use of SSRIs is partly done by the suppression of right amygdala activity. Those who meditate have reduced right amygdala activity during meditation, and a change in activity was also observed when the subject was no longer meditating (Annells et al., 2016). This indicates that meditation provides more adequate emotional control over incoming stressors, and can potentially act as a replacement for antidepressants. Meditation grants the general awareness and control of emotions, alleviating the body from feeling in danger while granting the individual the ability to recognize unhealthy ruminations and clear them from their thought stream.

The Physiologic Responses of Mindfulness Meditation

The benefit of thought control is evident when analyzing the result of experiments involving mindfulness meditation. Increases sympathetic nervous system activity is present within depression (Veith et al., 1994). Those who have increased mindfulness show decreased stress and a faster recovery from it (Greeson et al., 2018; Gamaiunova et al., 2019). In these individuals, there is a noticeable reduction in sympathetic activity and responsivity, coupled with an increase in parasympathetic nervous system tone (Hoffman et al., 1982; Esch, 2014). This means the body of a meditator shifts away from activating stressful, fight or flight systems, and relaxed state processes begin to dominate. Stress related neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and cortisol are also shown to be less present in individuals that practice meditation (Esch et al., 2007; Esch, 2014). This also indicates that meditation has a general effect on physical health. As previously stated, high levels of cortisol have serious effects on bodily health; thus, lessening cortisol will provide general well-being, as well as the cognitive benefits discussed above. Chronic stress has been connected to lower acetylcholine levels. Interestingly enough, the breath of meditators has elevated nitric oxide levels. Presumably because there are higher levels of acetylcholine and morphine, which both increase the activity of oxide-producing enzymes (Esch, 2014). Dopamine is often related inversely to the presence of depression, and it too has been shown to increase amongst those who practice meditation (Dailly et al., 2004; Jung et al., 2010; Esch, 2014). It is also has been suggested that the increase in internalized attention during mediation, triggers activity in brain regions such as the left frontal cortex that are related to positive emotions (Rubia, 2009). This, coupled with the general health benefits of decreasing sympathetic activity and cortisol levels, is likely the reason why meditators often express a general higher satisfaction with their life and are more content (Esch et al., 2007). That being said, meditators also have a higher awareness of their own health. Meditators show an increase use of the ACC and insula, signifying that they have a greater means of modulating the self, alongside pain perception and anticipation. It is theorized that this increase in awareness grants the individual a sense of responsibility to improve their health (Esch, 2014). There is likely a feedback loops that occurs when one meditates: the individual decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, thereby increasing their health and wellbeing, while also gaining a higher perception of their health that results in further attention and improvement.

The Missing Component

Many metanalytical papers have attempted to synthesize the findings of mediation research. Many conclude, as this paper does, that the main neuronal mechanism of mindfulness generally involves: attention regulation of the body and mind, nonreactivity to experiences, and changes of self-perception (Hölzel et al., 2011; Esch, 2014; Wielgosz et al., 2019). Even though the effects on the autonomic nervous system are discussed, they are seemingly ignored as a key factor contributing to the higher quality of life and state of mind experienced by those that practice meditation. That being said, authors neglect to mention that there are two different arguments being put forth. The first is that people who meditate are, at that moment, putting themselves in a peaceful and quiet mindset that makes the body feel safe, thereby increasing parasympathetic nervous system activity (Esch, 2014). The second is that it is the skills learned from the meditation that allow for individuals to remove the unconstructive thoughts in the face of stressful situations, thereby preventing an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity. Of course, these two mechanisms may both occur, and perhaps due to the change in brain plasticity, the practices of stress relief during meditation aids the patient in using those same skill in everyday life. However, this distinction is key not only for general scientific understanding, but also for future research.

The existence of the two possible mechanisms suggests the need for further investigation. Researchers, rather than observing the improvement in self-reported depression scores, should be focusing on changes in autonomic nervous system changes. To differentiate between the two mechanisms, researchers should monitor autonomic nervous system activity during the act of meditation and after a series of prolonged practices. This type of experiment could ascertain whether or not the bulk of decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity and increase in parasympathetic nervous system activity occurs at the moment of meditation, or afterwards through the skills obtained. Perhaps the two systems change at different times, or the changes are evenly distributed across both events. Either way, this type of experiment seems necessary to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in treating depression. Furthermore, these distinctions are important in determining which techniques of mindfulness meditation provide the best results.

Criticisms

A key criticism of meditation research is that the method of meditation used in the studies is not constant. There are many forms of meditation practiced around the world, and many have different purposes. The most traditional and commonly practiced forms of meditation involve focusing attention on a single thing, which makes the research of mindfulness meditation particularly difficult because many will consider a wide range of practices to fall under the classification of mindfulness meditation. Even in this paper, that focuses exclusively on mindfulness meditation research, papers were presented that consider Tai Chi as inclusive to that criteria (Esch et al., 2007). Given the coordination of movements and the need for an instructor, Tai Chi can hardly be classified as a means of training thought control. Nonetheless, that example is quite extreme and most mindfulness-based meditation research involves one of these 4 types: traditional meditation, meditation in a clinical setting, mindfulness in a transient state and mindfulness as a dispositional trait (Chiesa et al., 2014). Despite the similarities, these all have vast differences in terms of how the meditation is practiced. For example, traditional meditation is done alone, and a more silent environment helps an individual focus on their breath. In a clinical setting, researchers conduct mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), in which the meditation is done in a group setting led by a teacher (Kenny & Williams, 2007). In this particular study of Kenny and Williams 2007, patients were also assigned homework of 1 hour of practice per day of yoga or meditation. Even though yoga is traditionally a physical form of mindfulness meditation, it is not in western cultures. In western cultures, Yoga becomes more a practice of listening to an instructor and stretching, which is not conducive to focusing solely on the breath. This highlights the difficulty of deciding whether or not the benefits of meditation come from the practice itself or the skills learned from it, since all of these studies use methods of meditation that vaguely resemble one another in practice. If all studies use different forms of meditation, then no matter how similar the results across studies are, there is no clear conclusion on the mechanism by which these changes occur. An obvious solution to this problem is to create a method of meditation that is traditionally used by all meditators, and to have many studies done all using the same method. Since it would be hard to mandate all researchers to use the same procedures, another option is to conduct more research on the meditators’ brain activity at the time of meditation. Perhaps these observations would shed more light on the neurological processes occurring during meditation, and these results would hopefully suggest which techniques provide the same types of skills and mental processes. That being said, it is also important for researchers to consider the mechanism by which the skills of thought control are brought about before the initiation of the experiment. Practices like Thai Chi and Yoga being from eastern cultures does not classify them as mindfulness meditation and effective procedures to promote thought control. 

The conclusions of some experiments discussed in this paper need to be taken with skepticism. Many studies are conducted with small sample sizes (Kenny & Williams, 2007; Barnhofer et al., 2009; Kasala et al., 2014). There are even studies, such as the Kenny and Williams study in 2007 discussed above that do not have a control group or any other group to make a comparison to. They even allowed the patients to take their regular medications for their disorders. This, alongside the absence of a control group, makes it extremely difficult to scientifically show that the MBCT was the reason for the decrease in depression scores at all. While other studies had a well-constructed design, most studies that conduct a T-test or ANOVA in their analysis fail to show that their data is normally distributed (Kenny & Williams, 2007; Barnhofer et al., 2009; Greeson et al., 2018). A normal distribution of data is a key assumption for both of these commonly used statistical test, and without proper proof of normality, the results of these test are questionable at best. Sadly, much of scientific literature contains these forms of statistical errors (Halsey et al., 2015). Though these flaws are not present in all mindfulness meditation experiments, the use of these studies as concrete evidence of its effectiveness is rightfully scrutinized. Most studies tend to have similar results, which suggests that mindfulness meditation effects depression. Nonetheless, given the design flaws of experiments and inconsistency in meditation methods, these studies should be used more as an indicator of the existence of a relationship between mindfulness meditation and depression than evidence that such a relationship exists. Much more diligent and thorough work is required for there to be scientific validity, and the ability to claim that meditation is truly a useful method of treatment. To start, many of these experiments should be repeated with improvements to their design, such as including control groups and more consistent methods of mediation, in order to validate the significance of their p-values. This will provide much more statistically significant evidence suggesting that mindfulness meditation is the true cause of the alleviation of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Despite the lack of concrete evidence and methods, there is a case to adopt this practice sooner rather than later. Given most experiments involving mindfulness meditation and its effects on depression share similar results, it is reasonable to assume that there is some true effect mindfulness meditation has on alleviating the disorder. The aim of the physician should be to provide a patient that has emotional challenges the tools and skills needed to manage and subdue the unhealthy habits of thinking on their own. Traditionally, this method is through the use of pharmaceutical drugs that act to change brain chemistry. This is not only a costly expense on the individual, but there is growing evidence suggesting that many antidepressants are not much more effective than a placebo (Kirsch et al., 2002; Antonuccio et al., 2002). Not only that, but antidepressant have numerous negative long-term side effects, such as withdrawals, sexual problems, weight gain and becoming emotionally numb (Masand & Gupta, 2002; Cartwright et al., 2016). There is also no publish evidence to claim that antidepressants reduce the risk of depression once the treatment has ended (Annells et al., 2016). Therefore, antidepressants should not be thought of as a viable clinical solution in the long-run. Meditation on the other hand is completely free, and can be a useful practice in an individual’s personal life. Given its simplicity, it is also void of negative side effects, and in that sense is a much more ethical and risk-averse form of treatment from a clinical standpoint. Therefore, it is prudent that the scientific community give increased attention to meditation research, so that we can further understand its benefits and perfect its techniques, to potentially help all those who suffer from depression in a safe and cost-effective manner.

Works Cited

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Antonuccio DO, Burns DD & Danton WG (2002). Antidepressants: A triumph of marketing over science? Prev Treat; DOI: 10.1037/1522-3736.5.1.525c.

Barnhofer T, Crane C, Hargus E, Amarasinghe M, Winder R & Williams JMG (2009). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy as a treatment for chronic depression: A preliminary study. Behav Res Ther 47, 366–373.

Cartwright C, Gibson K, Read J, Cowan O & Dehar T (2016). Long-term antidepressant use: patient perspectives of benefits and adverse effects. Patient Prefer Adherence 10, 1401–1407.

Chiesa A, Anselmi R & Serretti A (2014). Psychological Mechanisms of Mindfulness-Based Interventions. Holist Nurs Pract 28, 124–148.

Dailly E, Chenu F, Renard CE & Bourin M (2004). Dopamine, depression and antidepressants. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 18, 601–607.

Esch T (2014). The Neurobiology of Meditation and Mindfulness. In, pp. 153–173. Springer, Cham. Available at: http://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-319-01634-4_9 [Accessed October 1, 2019].

Esch T, Duckstein J, Welke J & Braun V (2007). Mind/body techniques for physiological and psychological stress reduction: stress management via Tai Chi training – a pilot study. Med Sci Monit 13, CR488-497.

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Greeson JM, Zarrin H, Smoski MJ, Brantley JG, Lynch TR, Webber DM, Hall MH, Suarez EC & Wolever RQ (2018). Mindfulness Meditation Targets Transdiagnostic Symptoms Implicated in Stress-Related Disorders: Understanding Relationships between Changes in Mindfulness, Sleep Quality, and Physical Symptoms. Evidence-Based Complement Altern Med 2018, 1–10.

Halsey LG, Curran-Everett D, Vowler SL & Drummond GB (2015). The fickle P value generates irreproducible results. Nat Methods 12, 179–185.

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Kasala ER, Bodduluru LN, Maneti Y & Thipparaboina R (2014). Effect of meditation on neurophysiological changes in stress mediated depression. Complement Ther Clin Pract 20, 74–80.

Kenny MA & Williams JMG (2007). Treatment-resistant depressed patients show a good response to Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy. Behav Res Ther 45, 617–625.

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@ 3ac03011:41ecd1bb

Does Football Still Feel the Same?

Close your eyes for a moment and think back to when you first fell in love with football. What was it that pulled you in and wouldn’t let go? Was it the roar of the crowd as your team netted a stoppage-time winner? The thrill of an underdog beating the odds? Or maybe it was simpler—the chants, the rivalries, the raw, unfiltered chaos of the game.

Now open your eyes. Does football still feel like that?

You know it doesn’t. The spark is still there but the magic feels muted. Matches feel more like polished products, rivalries are starting to feel manufactured and even the moments of brilliance seem a little…hollow.

You hear the pundits blame it on “greedy owners” or “commercialisation of the game,” but football has always been tied to money. From the grand stadiums to the global superstars, wealth has always flowed to the game we love. So, what’s really wrong?

What Happened to the Chaos?

Football isn’t just a sport. It’s a reflection of life—messy, unpredictable and gloriously unfair. That’s what made it beautiful. It wasn’t just about the goals; it was about the stories. The miraculous comebacks, the unlikely heroes, the questionable refereeing decisions that sparked debates for years.

But where is that chaos now?

Look at today’s game. Teams are coached to minimise risk and prioritise results. Players are drilled into systems, their individual flair sacrificed for the greater machine. Even rivalries feel like marketing strategies, built more for brand engagement than genuine passion.

Why?

Because predictability isn’t just valued—it’s demanded. Clubs are forced to prioritise short-term financial growth over risk. They cannot afford to experiment or fail because the economic system, which governs us all, punishes them if they do. It’s no coincidence that football’s decline in spontaneity mirrors the rise of fiat money.

How Fiat Changed Football

Fiat currency, with its endless inflation, has placed football in a relentless race. Every club is chasing financial growth—not because they want to, but because they have to. Inflation eats away at savings, forcing clubs to focus on short-term profits.

The result? Clubs treat fans as customers, not loyal supporters. Teams are built for efficiency, not excitement. Every decision, from tactics to transfers, is filtered through a lens of operational financial return. The beautiful game is being stripped of its beauty, one spreadsheet at a time.

Do You Really Want Perfection?

Think of your favourite football memories, those that are deemed iconic. Was it all about skill and precision? Or was it about emotion, drama and unpredictability?

The “Hand of God” wasn’t just a goal—it became a chapter in football history. Frank Lampard’s disallowed goal against Germany in 2010 didn’t just spark debates—it became folklore. These moments, as infuriating as they were at the time, gave football its soul.

But today, we chase an unattainable goal: perfection. VAR was introduced to make everything “fair,” but instead, it’s robbed the game of its spontaneity. Those controversial moments that one fueled passion now lead to lifeless delays.

Is this really the game we fell in love with?

Financial Fair Play (FFP) and the False Promise

Consider FFP. At first glance, it seems like a noble idea—a way to regulate spending, create a level playing field and ensure the long-term stability of clubs. But has it really delivered on its promises?

The reality is, FFP wasn’t designed for fans. It’s a system built for regulators, giving them a framework to justify their role. What they fail to understand—or conveniently ignore—is that football fans aren’t ordinary customers. We don’t switch teams when things go wrong. If your club is relegated or endures years of heartbreak, do you suddenly start cheering for your rivals? Never. Loyalty is the foundation of football and it’s a loyalty so fierce that many fans would sooner stop watching the sport entirely than betray their team.

Instead of nurturing this unique connection, FFP has entrenched inequality. It locks in the dominance of a few elite clubs while stifling ambition for everyone else. Even as a supporter of one of these elite clubs, it’s impossible to ignore how these rules suffocate the very spirit of competition that makes football beautiful.

Is There A Way Back?

What if football could be free again? Free to embrace chaos, its passion, its unpredictability?

The answer isn’t to ban money from football. Money has always been a part of the game. The problem isn’t money—it’s the kind of money.

Fiat money, with its endless inflation, has poisoned football. We need an inflation-proof currency to form the heart of a new awakening for football. Lucky for us, we don’t need to look far for that currency.

A New Renaissance: The Bitcoin Era

Bitcoin is a form of money that doesn’t lose value over time. Clubs that adopt it will achieve financial stability without the need to chase endless operational growth. With Bitcoin, clubs can focus on what really matters: the football, the fans and the overall synergy between them.

Managers can take risks without the fear of collapse. Players can be artists, not just cogs in a system. Fans can feel like part of the story again, not just numbers on a balance sheet.

Imagine a world where football is free to be itself again. Where rivalries grow naturally, fueled by passion, not profit. Where clubs aren’t just businesses but extensions of their communities.

This isn’t a dream. It’s already happening. Real Bedford is leading the charge, proving that Bitcoin can change the game.

Football’s future is here—and it’s orange.

@ af264750:2c08cd8a

บทความนี้ not a tutorial เขียนไว้เป็นบันทึกความซนของผมเอง

เรื่องมีอยู่ว่า Alby เค้าจะยกเลิก custodial wallet ที่บริการกระเป๋าให้ฟรี ซึ่งประกาศมาซักพักใหญ่ๆแล้วล่ะ ผมก็นั่งไถฟีดค้นหากระเป๋าใหม่ที่จะมาใช้แทนแล้วไปจบอยู่ที่ LifPay เอามาใช้เป็นกระเป๋าชั่วคราวไปก่อนไว้รับส่ง zap เล็กๆน้อยๆ แล้วช่วงนั้นก็เป็นจังหวะเดียวกับที่มหาลัยมีจัดงานกึ่งสัมมนาเลยได้โอกาสเปิดโต๊ะคุยเรื่อง Bitcoin กันไปทั้งคืน

ผ่านไปซักหลายวันอยู่ขณะกำลังเก็บห้อง ผมก็ไปเจอกับคอมเครื่องเก่าที่ตั้งเกาะฝุ่นหลบมุมอยู่ คอมเครื่องนี้เคยเป็นคอมเครื่องหลักที่ซื้อมาไว้ประมาณ 10 ปีหน่อยๆ จนถึงช่วงขึ้นมหาลัยที่ต้องเปลี่ยนไปแบกโน้ตบุ้กไปเรียนแทน กลายเป็นว่าคอมเครื่องนี้ก็ตั้งไว้ในห้องแบบไม่ได้เสียบปลั้กเลยไปเป็นหลักปี ก็เลยเกิดไอเดียว่าไม่งั้นก็เอามาล้างเครื่องแล้วลองเปิด node ดูหน่อยมั้ย เพราะยังไงกิจกรรมทุกอย่างตอนนี้คือย้ายไปบนโน้ตบุ้กแทนหมดแล้ว จนเป็นจุดเริ่มต้นถึงการเดินทางแห่ง home node ขึ้นมา

เตรียมเครื่อง

ด้าน hardware ที่ใช้ก็ไม่พ้นคอมเครื่องเก่านั้น ที่ตอนนี้สเปคมันค่อนข้าง overkill สำหรับการเปิด home lightning node เบาๆ เพราะนอกจากจะเป็นเคสขนาด e-ATX ที่อัด HDD ได้หลายลูกแล้วก็ยังมีการ์ดจอเก่าอยู่ด้วย สเปคคร่าวๆก็มี i5-4670k กับแรม DDR3 12GB แค่นี้ก็กินไฟไปหลายสิบวัตต์แล้ว ยังมีการ์ดจอ GTX 1050Ti เสียบอยู่เฉยๆด้วย แล้วยังมี SSD SATA 480GB ตัวนึงกับ HDD 1TB พ่วงด้วยช่องอ่านแผ่น DVD ที่ประดับหน้าเคสไว้ เลยคิดไว้ว่าน่าจะต้องซื้อคอมอีกเครื่องเล็กๆมาเปิดแทนพี่ใหญ่นี้ในเร็ววัน

หันมาด้าน software กันบ้าง ผมก็เลือก Umbrel มาใช้ สาเหตุหลักก็เน้นสะดวกครับ สละ USB drive มาอันนึงแล้ว flash เข้าไปเลย จิ้มเดียวจบ แต่ข้อเสียแรกที่เห็นเลยคือใช้ได้ drive เดียวแล้วใช้ทั้งหมดเลย 1 drive ก็เลยต้องเอาระบบไปลงที่ SSD ไม่งั้นเดี๋ยวระบบอืดตาย ก็นะ แลกกับความสะดวกก็งี้

เปิดเครื่อง

แน่นอนว่าต้นเรื่องเราคือ Alby อยากให้เราย้ายกระเป๋ามาใช้เป็น Alby Hub ที่เป็น self-custodial ซึ่งใน Umbrel นั้นจะบังคับให้เราติดตั้ง Lightning Node ที่ตัวมันก็จะบังคับให้เราลง Bitcoin Node ด้วยอีกชั้น ทำให้จำนวน app ขั้นต่ำในการเปิด Alby Hub บน Umbrel อยู่ที่ 3 apps แต่อันนี้ผมลงจุกจิกเพิ่มเข้ามาด้วย นี่แหละข้อดีอันนึงของ Umbrel

สเต็ปการทำงานเบื้องต้นก็คือต้องรอ Bitcoin Node sync ให้ครบก่อน ไม่งั้น Lightning Node จะไม่เปิดให้เราเข้าไปใช้งาน แต่ระหว่างรอ sync นั้นเราสามารถเข้าไปจด recovery seed ไว้ก่อนได้เลย ห้ามลืมเด็ดขาด

พอ Lightning Node เราพร้อมแล้ว ก็ไปกันต่อที่ Alby Hub ก็จะมีขั้นตอนตั้งค่านู้นนี้นั้น ให้เราตั้งรหัสผ่านล็อก Hub แล้ว ก็จะมีให้เชื่อม Alby Account ด้วย ซึ่งแน่นอนว่าผมมาเพื่อสิ่งนี้ แลก auth token กันนิดหน่อยก็ถึงหน้า dashboard แล้ว

เปิดช่อง

เมื่อผมหันมาใช้ self-custodial wallet แล้ว สิ่งแรกที่ต้องจัดการเลยคือต้องมีช่องทางให้เงินไหลเข้ามา ไม่งั้นจะเปิด node เผาค่าไฟไปทำไมเนอะ ซึ่งใน Alby Hub เนี่ยเค้าก็มีรายชื่อผู้ให้บริการ LSP ที่เราสามารถซื้อ channel เปิดทางให้เงินไหลเข้ามาได้ ซึ่งผมก็เลือกเปิด channel กับ Lnserver เพราะลองเทียบราคาดูแล้วคือจ่ายค่าเปิด channel น้อยที่สุดในลิสด์นี้แล้ว บวกกับว่าเราสามารถออกไปซื้อตรงๆกับทาง Lnserver เองเหมือนกัน

โน้ตสำคัญของผมเวลาเปิด channel มีอยู่สองจุด จุดแรกคือต้องดู on-chain fee rate เพราะทุกครั้งที่เราเปิด channel ทาง LSP เค้าจะต้องส่งธุรกรรมเข้า block ซึ่งจะต้องเสีย fee เพิ่มกว่าเรทจริงอีกหน่อย ทำให้บางทีค่าเปิด channel โดนอัดราคาเพิ่มจนสูงกว่าค่าบริการของ LSP นั้นๆอีก อย่างของผมที่ซื้อกับ Lnserver เค้าจะเก็บเริ่มต้นที่ 5000 sats สำหรับ channel ขนาด 2,000,000 sats แล้วจะบวก commit fee ไปอีก 1345 sats ที่เรท 2 sats/vB รวมกันเป็น 6345 sats ที่จ่ายไป

โน้ตที่สองที่ต้องเตรียมไว้ด้วยก็คือ reserve fund โดยผมจะเรียกอีกอย่างว่าเป็นค่าประกัน channel ซึ่งค่าประกันตรงนี้จะเก็บไว้เป็นขั้นต่ำของ channel นั้นๆฝ่ายละ 1% แล้วจะล็อกตายเก็บไว้เอาออกมาใช้จ่ายไม่ได้จนกว่าจะปิด channel ถ้าไม่จ่ายค่าประกันตรงนี้ เราก็จะรับเข้าและจ่ายออกจากฝั่งเราไม่ได้ หมายความว่า channel ขนาด 2,000,000 sats ก็ต้องมีเงินประกันเข้าไปด้วยจากฝั่งผม 20,000 sats ถึงจะใช้งานได้

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ใครที่สนใจอ่านเพิ่มเติม ผมมีเว็บข้อมูลเกี่ยวกับ Lightning liquidity มาแนะนำ อันนี้แหละที่ผมอ่านแล้วเพิ่งมารู้เกี่ยวกับ channel reserve รวมถึงเรื่องอื่นๆที่น่ารู้เกี่ยวกับวงบริวารและการออกแบบระบบที่เกี่ยวกับ Bitcoin

https://bitcoin.design/guide/how-it-works/liquidity/#what-is-the-reserve-amount

@ 378562cd:a6fc6773

As a frequent user who depends on my phone for a wide range of activities, including boosting my productivity and capturing spontaneous moments, I have been paying close attention to the OnePlus 13. This flagship device appears to meet all my essential requirements, particularly excelling in power and camera capabilities, which are my main priorities. Here are the standout features that have caught my attention.

Power to Handle Anything I Throw at It

Performance is a big deal for me, and the OnePlus 13 doesn’t seem to disappoint. It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a beast in the mobile tech world. I can already imagine how smoothly it would handle heavy multitasking, like switching between editing photos, running multiple apps, and even gaming.

The insane memory options—up to 24GB of RAM—truly stand out. That’s more RAM than most laptops I’ve owned! Pair that with up to 1TB of storage, and you’re looking at a future-proof phone. I’d never have to worry about running out of space for apps, photos, or videos, and everything would load lightning-fast.

A Camera Setup That’s Hard to Ignore

One of my favorite things to do is capture high-quality photos and videos, so a powerful camera system is non-negotiable. The OnePlus 13 delivers with its triple-camera setup; all three lenses are 50 megapixels. That means whether I’m shooting with the main wide lens, zooming in with the telephoto, or going wide with the ultra-wide, I’m getting consistently sharp, detailed shots.

The Hasselblad collaboration is a big draw for me, too. OnePlus phones have been steadily improving their color science, and this partnership seems to really shine in the OnePlus 13. I’d expect vibrant, true-to-life colors in my photos without much editing required.

The AI enhancements also pique my interest. From what I’ve read, the phone handles tricky lighting situations, like low-light environments or high-contrast scenes, exceptionally well. That’s exactly what I need to capture spontaneous moments without worrying about settings.

Battery and Charging That Won’t Leave Me Hanging

Another thing I appreciate is the long battery life. The 6,000 mAh battery on the OnePlus 13 is reportedly a powerhouse, capable of lasting two days under mixed usage. And when I do need to charge, the 100W wired charging can fully juice up the phone in just over half an hour. Even the 50W wireless charging is incredibly fast, which is perfect for someone like me who’s always on the move.

Design and Features That Add Value

The flat-edge design and premium finish make the phone feel as good as it looks. I’d probably go for the Midnight Ocean with its vegan leather back—it sounds grippy and unique, ideal for someone who doesn’t want to slap on a bulky case.

The little extras, like Glove Mode and Aqua Touch 2.0, also catch my attention. Since winters are cold here, using my phone with gloves on is a practical bonus.

Why It’s Tempting Me

At $899 for the base model, the OnePlus 13 seems like a solid deal, especially for the power and camera capabilities it offers. Even if I choose a higher configuration, the pricing still feels reasonable compared to other flagships with similar specs.

For me, the OnePlus 13 feels like a phone that’s built for power users—people who need speed, reliability, and top-tier camera performance. I’m seriously considering it for my next upgrade because it feels like it would keep up with everything I do and then some. If the camera and performance live up to the hype, I might just have my decision made.

@ f84e0b6b:f21f0a9b

I’ve never lived in LA, though I’ve visited many times. The devastation there from recent fires there is still in the headlines and anyone with a soul feels for the folks without homes, neighbors and communities. Whether they vote the same way or look the same way or worship the same god, “what can I do to help these victims?” is our first question.

The second question is, what is the most responsible way to help? Paragraph two and controversy is already here. Responsible according to who? These people are victims, just give them as much money as they need and let them figure it out according to their local knowledge and culture! The broadest possible answer to this comes from a recent Substack by Arnold Kling: California Tough Love . His position is that there are certain factors controlled locally that led to the disaster, and we shouldn’t be in a rush to replicate them. Having some strings attached to funds that reduce the likelihood of $50,000/year blue collar workers in Iowa footing the bill for the rebuild of $5,000,000 homes in Pacific Palisades AGAIN in the foreseeable future is a very reasonable position.

My position here will be more detailed than Arnold’s, and thus has a higher probability of being wrong. That has never stopped me before. The source of this hubris is a crystal ball. While not a resident of LA, I have been an honorary citizen of Maui for several decades. This attachment is longer than the attachment to the city I currently live in. In August of 2023, a similar devastating fire engulfed the town of Lahaina on the west side of Maui. \~2,200 homes were burned or damaged. The plight of those rebuilding and the process they have gone through quickly faded from national attention, but not to those of us who spend substantial amounts of time on the island. This experience 17 months before the LA fires has painted a depressing blueprint of what we can expect in LA’s recovery. A couple of highlights: 

• In November of 2024, the first house was rebuilt. 15 months = 1 house.  First House Rebuilt - Maui News. Article highlight: Maui “expedited the permitting process for this house, so it “only” took 2 months.

• In December of 2024, federal funding for rebuilding via a block grant is finally approved by congress. Federal Block Grant For Rebuild - Maui News. Article highlight: $1.6 billion approved for housing = \~$800,000 per house.

What do these items have in common? The biggest price so far is time. Arnold’s substack was more of a philosophical position, but I doubt even he knew that at the time of writing, Lahaina’s federal funding had just been approved. All those strings he had attached by the feds? Still very slow for a family without a home. This is half of the ‘real price gouging’ mentioned in the subtitle. Those further down the socio-economic ladder have less time to whether the process in Lahaina and the same will likely be true for the middle class residents embedded in the areas destroyed by California’s fires.

The second element of price gouging is the red tape partially embodied in Maui’s example of two months of permitting. These costs aren’t just the time, but also the professional consultants of various stripes required to navigate the process successfully and the costly modifications to homes mandated through these processes.

Here is where I posit my broad and general suggestion. There should exist a “right to rebuild”. If you can legally own a piece of property in a specific condition, you should have the right to rebuild that exact same property if it is destroyed by means out of your control. If you don’t have a “right to rebuild”, you really don’t own that property - you are just renting it for an indefinite period from whoever can prohibit rebuilding it.

Rebuilding is a special case in both the individual and the community level. See the map of Lahaina below. We know where all the plumbing and power lines were. We know where the streets and drainage were. The right to rebuild translates nicely to the community level. Rebuild everything back where it was. Take a month or two to clear out the debris from an area and begin to rebuild. Rinse and repeat until done. 

Taxpayers in Texas shouldn’t be paying for bloated permitting processes in Lahaina or LA. They shouldn’t be paying for eco-upgrades unless very specific, critical failures that caused the current disaster are clearly identified with lowest-cost available solutions. (In Lahaina - pay to bury the power lines. I drove through the area where the fire started 2 weeks before it occurred. That place was a tinder box, and it will be again unless someone puts a golf course on that hill. Burying the power lines will dramatically reduce the fire hazard. I’m not joking about the golf course. Directly adjacent to the north of the area of Lahaina that burned is Ka’anapali, whose identical hillside is green all year round due to the presence of golf courses that pay for themselves and do not burn.)

How to address this in the context of federal funding via Arnold’s original post:

• Extremely expedited permitting process for rebuilds that get any federal funding: 5 days not 60. You can rebuild what you had, no questions asked, just file the paper work to prove it is the same lot and same size structure. If local jurisdictions drag their heels - no funding, answer to your voters who are now SOL.

• Capped amount of funding per structure that covers a functional modest structure built at the average cost of the 10 most affordable states in the country. The process of building a single family residence is not dramatically different in various areas of the country, unless dictated by excessive regulation. There may be factors for labor to consider if an area is remote like Lahaina or the hills of North Carolina affected by Helene. But if it costs 2x to build a house in your county than in the 10 most affordable states - you are doing it wrong. There is some regulatory price gouging going on. Figure it out.  10 most affordable states to build a home - According to this research you can build a 2,100 square foot home for an average of less than $300,000 in the 10 most affordable states. This list includes Florida, South Dakota and Tennessee. Your geography is not special.

• This funding will also be contingent on these rebuilt houses being completed within 110% of the time it takes to build 2,100 square foot home in the same 10 markets - measured from the day funds begin to be distributed by the federal government. Some things will take longer, but some should also be faster if you are doing a lot of these in the same place at the same time.

• Federal funding will begin to be distributed from a risk pool within 6 months of the disaster, with minimal review to just ensure the disaster qualifies and the receiving state/city will abide by its parameters.

• The funding is distributed at intervals governed by compliance with the program. Permits are being issued timely, and the amounts distributed are aligned with the cost of building in our most affordable markets.

If you want to build something new and different than before - it might take longer. If you want more than 2,100 square feet of house - I hope you had insurance to cover the difference. A new 2,100 square foot house puts you in the top 10% of humans on earth in terms of shelter. Being a good neighbor does not require rebuilding your infinity pool.

The right to rebuild will get people in homes quicker, remove government obstacles, and stop funding waste. Every citizen will know the rules - money is there to get me a basic structure quickly or fund the beginning of something larger. Any obstacles to that time and money are coming from politicians/regulations I can vote on. Comments will surely pour in explaining how it isn’t that simple. These comments will be reviewed diligently 2 years from now when Pacific Palisades is still a wasteland after $20 billion in federal aid has been spent.

Source: Maui Now

@ c69b71dc:426ba763

Chef's notes

This raw vegan curry ramen is a vibrant, nourishing dish packed with fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy coconut curry broth. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavour, and the perfect guilt-free comfort food! 🌱 Feel free to use your favourite veggies👩🏼‍🍳

Details

• ⏲️ Prep time: 20 min.
• 🍳 Cook time: 0
• 🍽️ Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 500g or 2 packs kelp noodles
• 1/2 Lemon juice ( 1/4 for soaking and 1/4 for the soup
• Salt
• Fresh vegetables of your choice, such as: 4 medium mushrooms, 4 leaves red cabbage, 2 carrots (julienned or peeled into strips), 1 Celery stick (diced)
• 2 cups coconut milk (or coconut cream diluted with water)
• 1/2 flesh of a Coconut (optional, if using fresh coconuts) otherwise more coconut cream
• 1 thumb of fresh ginger
• 1 thumb of fresh turmeric
• 2 tbsp light miso paste
• 2 pitted dates
• 2 tbsp cashews
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tsp curry powder or pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Noodles: Rinse the kelp noodles thoroughly. Then soak them in warm water with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt for 10 minutes to soften.
2. Prep the Vegetables: Thinly slice or julienne carrots, dice celery, thinly cut mushrooms, cut the red cabbage into thin strips.
3. Make the Broth: In a blender, combine the following: 2 cups coconut milk (or coconut cream diluted with water if fresh coconuts are unavailable), ginger, turmeric, 1/4 juice of 1 lemon, light miso paste, pitted dates, cashews, garlic, salt, curry powder
4. Blend on high speed for about 3 to 4 minutes until the broth is smooth and slightly warm. Do not overheat!
5. Assemble the Ramen: Drain the kelp noodles and place them in serving bowls. Arrange the prepped vegetables on top of the noodles. Pour the warm curry broth over the noodles and vegetables.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your raw vegan ramen with chopsticks for an authentic touch!

@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9

Hello Stackers!

Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!

A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.

So stay a while and listen.

🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨

🚨Subscribe to the territory to ensure you never miss a post! 🚨

originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/854843

@ 9e69e420:d12360c2

The Supreme Court's decision to uphold the TikTok ban, set to take effect on January 19, 2025, leaves 170 million American users searching for new social platforms. As this unprecedented shutdown approaches, Nostr, a decentralized social media protocol, is positioned to capture users seeking a censorship-resistant alternative.

Why Nostr Appeals to Former TikTok Users

Nostr offers several compelling features that make it an attractive option for displaced TikTok users. The platform provides true user control over content and algorithms, allowing people to choose how their feed is displayed rather than being subject to a centralized algorithm's whims. Additionally, Nostr's integration with Bitcoin's Lightning Network enables creators to receive direct micropayments through "zaps," creating new monetization opportunities.

Key Advantages of Nostr

Censorship Resistance Unlike traditional social media platforms, Nostr cannot be banned or shut down by any single entity due to its decentralized nature. Users maintain ownership of their digital identity and content, ensuring they won't face another situation like the TikTok ban.

Creator Economy Content creators concerned about losing their TikTok revenue streams can benefit from Nostr's native payment system. The platform's "zap" feature allows followers to send instant micropayments to creators, providing a direct monetization path.

Platform Independence Nostr's protocol-based approach means users can seamlessly switch between different client apps while maintaining their following and content. This flexibility provides a stark contrast to TikTok's centralized model that leaves users vulnerable to platform-wide shutdown.

Growing Momentum

Nostr has already demonstrated significant growth potential, expanding from 90,000 to 1.1 million users in just three months. With prominent figures like Jack Dorsey and Edward Snowden advocating for the platform, Nostr is well-positioned to capture a portion of TikTok's massive user base seeking a more resilient social media alternative.

@ bf47c19e:c3d2573b

Originalni tekst na ecd.rs

18.08.2020 / Autor: Igor Mirković

---

Činjenica je da živimo u vremenu u kome su informacije dostupne na dohvat ruke, svuda i svima. Analiza najsitnijih detalja zaobilazi ljudske, ponekad pogrešne procene, potpomognuta kompjuterskom tačnošću dovodi nas do maestralnih otkrića. U izobilju sačuvanih podataka blokčejn industrije gde je transparentnost glavni adut, kruži velika nepoznanica koja zbog svoje nerešivosti prerasta u misteriju. Ko je idejni tvorac Bitkoina, jednog od najuticajnijih projekata u modernoj finansijskoj industriji i znate li ko je misteriozni Satoši Nakamoto?!

Nepoznati genije, čija je kreacija najpoznatija alternativa čitavom svetskom monetarnom sistemu ali i svakodnevnom životu, kome svi nalazimo zamerke, na koje smo navikli da prećutimo i prihvatimo ih jer mislimo da tako mora, imao je ideju o konceptu čuvanja i razmene vrednosti koja će savršeno funkcionisati unutar društva. Bitkoin je prvi put prezentovan javnosti 31. oktobra 2008. u tekstu koji se popularno naziva Bitkoin Whitepaper i predstavlja dokument o filozofiji u rešavanju određenog problema. Bitkoin Whitepaper je kao autor potpisao Satoši Nakamoto.

Satoši Nakamotov Bitkoin whitepaper

Kandidata koji mogu biti iza ovog imena ili pseudonima svakako ima, ali nećemo odmotavati klupko unazad, nego ćemo pratiti Satošijev rad i stvari koje zapravo znamo kako bi nas dovele do nekoga ili nečega. Saznanja, ko je to, koristeći taktiku dobrih poker igrača, u kojoj ne moramo videti kroz zatamnjene naočare drugih igrača kako bi ih pročitali, već ćemo tumačiti njihove postupke, govor tela, izbor reči…

Sami počeci ovakve ideje datiraju mnogo ranije i idu do 1980. godine i Cypherpunk zajednice koja je bila sačinjena od fanatika za brigu o privatnosti podataka na internetu i kriptografa koji su kreirali softvere za zaštitu podataka. To je bila privilegija državnika na visokim pozicijama sa pristupom poverljivim informacijama i naravno, tajni alat vrhunskih špijuna. Cypherpunk su aktivisti koji se zalažu za široku upotrebu kriptografije i tehnologije za unapređenje privatnosti, kao puta ka društvenim i političkim promenama.

Zaštita privatnosti je smatrana bitnom ali nije bila masovno dostupna, a Cypherpunk zajednica se zalagala protiv sistema „Veliki brat“ sistema u kome je nekome iznad uvek dostupan uvid u naše aktivnosti. Promovisali su zaštitu, enkripciju i bezbednost na individualnom nivou, u kome bi svako trebalo da preduzme dostupne mere predostrožnosti i zaštiti svoj virtuelni (lični) identitet.

Pretpostavljamo da je Satoši bio deo ove zajednice jer je definitivno bio njihov istomišljenik i kao inspiraciju za kreiranje Bitkoina imao je par postojećih projekata iz zajednice poput B-Money, Digi Cash ili Bit Gold koji su idejno bili slični Bitkoinu ali neuspešni u realizaciji.

Nakon objavljivanja Bitkoina, Satošijeva ideja se postepeno širila zajednicom i privukla brojne programere koji su bili voljni da daju svoj doprinos u razvijanju i adaptaciji, ali je Satošijev lik i dalje ostao neotkriven jer je sa saradnicima komunicirao isključivo porukama preko e-mail adrese i foruma, koristeći potrebnu zaštitu. Njegova lokacija i ostali tragovi do njega bili su nedostupni. Čak i njegovi najbliži saradnici znali su ga samo kao internet nalog sa alijasom Satoši Nakamoto.

Citat iz „The Crypto Anarchist Manifesto“

Pored toga što je bio ključna osoba za kreaciju i razvoj Bitkoina, nije upadao u oči javnosti jer mediji i ljudi koji su čuli za Bitkoin, masovnu primenu i uspeh projekta tretirali su kao naučnu fantastiku i nisu joj pridavali bitan, a kamoli revolucionaran značaj.

03.01.2009. nakon niza transakcija, uspešno je „izrudaren“ prvi blok u Bitkoin blokčejnu i nagrada koja je sledila rudaru tog bloka (Satošiju) bila je 50 BTC. U kompjuterskom kodu prvog bloka nalazi se „skrivena poruka“ koja kada se dešifruje glasi:

– The Times 03/Jan/2009 Chancellor on brink of second bailoutfor banks

Ova poruka se podudara sa naslovnom stranom londonskih novina tog dana, ukazujući na pogrešne poteze postojećeg monetarnog i finansijskog sistema, koji su razlog nastanka Bitkoina. Država pomaže banke i privredu tako što im puni čašu za podsticaj ekonomije, ali flaša novca iz koje uporno dolivaju je fiktivna i napunjena je novcem „ispod čekića“, kojim se kupuje socijalni i ekonomski mir.

Bitkoin programeri

Kako je vreme prolazilo, mnogi su uvideli prednosti koje Bitkoin ima, broj korisnika se povećavao, a mreža je bila sve stabilnija. Satoši je aktivno radio sa brojnim programerima na razvitku same tehnologije, ali teško je bilo kontrolisati pravac u kome će Bitkoin biti korišćen. Novac koji ne može biti kontrolisan od strane Centralne Banke, ne može biti oporezivan, nije inflatoran i može biti poslat i primljen svuda, veoma brzo zloupotrebljen je kao savršen način finansiranja i plaćanja projekata koji su smatrani krajnje ilegalnim i zabranjem od strane vlada širom sveta.

Jedan od takvih slučajeva bio je WikiLeaks skandal 2010. godine, koji je koristio Bitkoin kao sredstvo finansiranja svog sajta, na kome su objavljivani ukradeni podaci koji su bili strogo poverljivi i zabranjeni za javnost, a sadržali su brojne malverzacije i tajne dogovore medju državama.

Satoši Nakamoto je osporavao korišćenje Bitkoina u ove svrhe, ali zbog same prirode Bitkoin-a bilo je nemoguće da se ovako nešto spreči. Borba izmedju dobrog i lošeg koja se vodila u zajednici, nastala neiskustvom u do tada neviđenoj situaciji i višestruke neregulative, moralno je potresla Satošija, koji nedugo zatim na misteriozni način nestaje sa svih foruma… Ostavlja samo komentar: „Bilo bi mnogo bolje da je Bitkoin privukao pažnju javnosti na bilo koji drugi način, osim na ovaj. WikiLeaks je uzburkao roj pčela, koji je sada krenuo na nas.“

Svestan mogućih problema sa vlastima zbog svoje kreacije, odlučuje da se potpuno povuče i prepusti razvijanje projekta svojim najbližim saradnicima i zajednici. Bitkoin je nastavio da se razvija i istakli su se mnogi koji su uticali na unapređenje kako tehničke pozadine projekta tako i medijske prihvaćenosti i pravne regulative.

Ljudi lako shvate Bitkoin, jer je ideja o savršenom finansijskom trzistu u njihovoj glavi vrlo slična, a Satoši se pobrinuo da tehnoloski podupre takvu zamisao. Čovek koji je živeo za procvat tehnologije u kojoj je anonimnost i dostupnost vrlina, van svakog zla modernog doba, u kome se često zloupotrebljava tehnološka revolucija da se tron postojećih vladara utemelji, na štetu nemoćnih.

Količina Bitkoina koja je došla u Satošijevo vlasništvo tokom početnih godina procenjena je na minimum 1.000.000 BTC-a, što sada, nakon rasta svesti o stvarnoj i mogućoj vrednosti Bitkoina iznosi oko 11 milijardi američkih dolara i to ga direktno klasifikuje kao jednog od najbogatijih ljudi na svetu.

Naslovna strana magazina „The Times“

Debata ko je misteriozni genije i idejni tvorac bitkoina – Satoši Nakamoto i dalje traje. Da li je muškarac, žena…? Ili čitava grupa ljudi stoji iza pseudonima? Mnoge analize poruka po načinu spelovanja upućuju da je reč o osobi engleskog porekla, naprednog programerskog znanja i shvatanja ekonomije. Akademski građanin koji razdvaja novu rečenicu sa dva spejsa posle tačke, što je simbolično za akademske radove tog vremena, ali i za stare pisaće mašine, koje je možda koristio u mladosti i tako razvio naviku.

Jako je interesantna činjenica da ni jedan coin u njegovom vlasništvu od njegovog nestanka, nije poslat ili potrošen. Stoje na kripto novčanicima, netaknuti. Svi za koje se pretpostavljalo da stoje iza Bitkoina su javno negirali da su oni misteriozni idejni tvorac Satoši Nakamoto, svi sa kojima je sarađivao tvrde da ne znaju njegov identitet i svi koji su se dobrovoljno javili da preuzmu zasluge za kreaciju, nisu imali dovoljno jake dokaze za samoproklamovane tvrdnje.

Najbogatiji Bitkoin holderi

Bitkoin nosi etiketu savršenog sistema otpornog na bilo koji vid malverzacije u samim transakcijama jer krajnju realizaciju ne vrše drugi ljudi nego kompjuterski program. Kripto rudari, novčanici za čuvanje, adrese za slanje, mnogima su poznati termini koji su sastavni deo Bitkoin mreze ali jedna stvar je ostala nepoznanica kako za ljubitelje kriptovaluta tako i za ostatak sveta, samo srce projekta, ko je i gde je osoba koja se krije iza potpisa Satoshi Nakamoto.

@ c4b5369a:b812dbd6

This is the first edition of the SDR (Squirrel Den Recap), a development blog where I recap the recent Cashu related things I've been working on.

The year of the nut

IYKYK. 2025 is the year of the nut. Don't blame me, you can put it on the Chinese:

And I intend to take full advantage of that. This is the year where I go all in on the nut development!

Building a mint???

There are already a few mint implementations out there (nutshell, gonuts, cdk...). So why build another?

Honestly it was kind of a selfish move. So far, I have mainly concerned myself with building tools for Cashu wallets and clients. I figured, if I wanted to truly focus on Cashu this year, I should also know my stuff when it comes to building a mint from scratch. And so I did. It also allows me to experiment with mint related stuff, having an implementation handy that I can mess around with.

The mint implementation is called MNT. You can visit the homepage https://mnt.cash , where you will also find a link to the code.

Although the code works, the mint implementation is not yet ready for production. I've been playing around with it using a local testing lightning network with Polar , which by the way is a great tool for devs that need to test lightning integrations.

The mint

MNT is short for mint. It's also pronounced like mint, but without the "i". The goal of this project is to be an easy to run mint, that could be deployed by users for example when running an event. It won't support all of the protocol features, to keep it simple. Instead the focus will be on simplicity and ease of use.

MNT comes with an admin web interface, that makes it easy to set the mint up with a lightning backend:

After adding a lightning backend, the mint is basically ready! Users can enjoy a live view of what is happening on their mint via the integrated dashboard:

Admins can take direct actions on the mint via the admin tool, like rotating keysets, disabling and enabling features, etc...

A key feature is also the keyset view, where operators get a view on how much of the issued ecash has already been redeemed in each keyset. This is a crucial tool for mint operators, because it lets them know when they can safely delete records from their database, or shut the mint down.

The mint is compatible with all Cashu wallets. It only supports a subset of the cashu specification (NUTs), and will probably never implement the full spec. I'm looking forward to soon recklessly give this badboy a spin on mainnet 😎

What else?

Cashu-ts

Last year

npub1mhcr4j594hsrnen594d7700n2t03n8gdx83zhxzculk6sh9nhwlq7uc226

joined cashu-ts as a maintainer and has been killing it with development in the project! As I ramp up my involvement in the project again, we started having weekly dev calls. Developers that want to contribute to cashu-ts development, please reach out to me so you can join us on the next call!

Nutstash

The wallet has seen a complete make-over at the end of last year. Now is the time to consolidate, fix bugs and improve the UX.

npub12zpfs3yq7we83yvypgsrw5f88y2fv780c2kfs89ge5qk6q3sfm7spks880

has been helping me with awesome designs and UX suggestions, while I've been crushing bugs. A new version fixing some edge cases in the restore process can be expected next week!

This blog

\ This year, I was fortunate to receive funding for my work on open source projects in the Cashu ecosystem. I am very grateful for the trust from

npub17xvf49kht23cddxgw92rvfktkd3vqvjgkgsdexh9847wl0927tqsrhc9as

and

npub10pensatlcfwktnvjjw2dtem38n6rvw8g6fv73h84cuacxn4c28eqyfn34f

this means a lot to me, to be able to make a living by working on something I am passionate about is a blessing, and I don't think it would be possible without the support from you. My deepest gratitude, I hope my contributions will not only match, but exceed expectations.

By writing this blog, I want to show my progress, proof of work, and give people a look into the daily life in the squirrels den 🐿️🐿️🐿️🐿️🐿️🐿️

If you have any questions or suggestions about this blog, please let me know in a comment!

Best,

Gandlaf

@ a10260a2:caa23e3e

Last Updated: January 18, 2025

First off, big shoutout to Coinos for having support for adding a memo to BOLT12 offers. This provides a solid alternative for the pleb who wants to support mining decentralization but doesn’t want to set up a CLN node and pay thousands of sats for a channel only to get little rewards. This is the case for most of us who only have a miner or two (e.g. a Bitaxe and/or an S9).

Before we get into setting up Lightning payouts, you’ll want to have your miner configured to mine with OCEAN of course. You’ll also want to make sure that the bitcoin address you use is from a wallet that supports signing messages.

These are the ones listed in the OCEAN docs:

• Bitcoin Knots/Bitcoin Core
• Coldcard
• Electrum
• LND (Command Line)
• Seedsigner
• Sparrow
• Specter
• Trezor

I checked one of my favorite, user-friendly wallets — Blue Wallet — and it happens to support signing messages as well.

Just tap the three dots on the upper right and you’ll see the “Sign/Verify Message” button at the bottom.

Update [January 18]: You can now use Coinos to sign by going to https://coinos.io/sign

The trick here is to not refresh the page. In other words, when you're logged in to your Coinos account, go to the URL and use the legacy address (starts with a "1") that's displayed to configure your miner(s). If you refresh the page, you're going to get a new address which will cause the signing to fail later on. Remember, keep the tab open and don't refresh the page.

Whichever wallet you choose, generate a receive address to use when configuring your miner (it’ll also be your OCEAN username).

Here’s how it looks on the Bitaxe (AxeOS)…

And the Antminer S9 (Braiins OS).

NOTE: There’s a slight difference in the URL format between the two apps. Other than that, the username will be your bitcoin address followed by the optional “.” + the nickname for your machine.

You can find more details on OCEAN’s get started page.

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Alright, now that your miner is pointed at OCEAN. Let’s configure Lightning payouts!

Generating the BOLT12 Offer

In the Coinos app, go to Receive > Bolt 12.

Tap “Set memo” and set it to “OCEAN Payouts for [insert your bitcoin address]” (this text is case-sensitive). Use the same bitcoin address you used above to configure your miner(s).

After tapping OK, copy the BOLT12 offer (it should start with “lno”) and proceed to the next step.

Generating the Configuration Message

Navigate to the My Stats page by searching for your OCEAN Bitcoin address.

The click the Configuration link next to Next Block to access the configuration form.

Paste the BOLT12 offer here, update the block height to latest, click GENERATE, and copy the generated unsigned message.

Signing the Configuration Message

To sign the generated message, go back to Blue Wallet and use the signing function. Paste the configuration message in the Message field, tap Sign, and copy the signed message that’s generated.

If you're using Coinos to sign, return to the page that you kept open (and didn't refresh) and do the same. Paste the configuration message, click submit, and copy the signed message.

Submitting the Signed Message

Once signed, copy the signature, paste it in the OCEAN configuration form, and click CONFIRM.

If all goes well, you should see a confirmation that the configuration was successful. Congrats! 🎉

All you gotta do now is sit back, relax, and wait for a block to be found…

Or you can look into setting up DATUM. 😎

@ 6d43b512:17ccbfe1

nostr #nostr_writer #review #beginner #obsidian #anytype #contract_drafting #agreenent_drafting #lawyer #law #contract #agreement #learn #education #plugin #telegram #wordpress #yakihonne #primal #damus

I write about and teach contract drafting. I use Obsidian as my primary software for doing research and to store my thoughts, draft lessons, future ideas, etc.

While shifting from Wordpress I wanted to choose a tool and platform that can help me leave the paywalled platforms, and the need to pay for server space, domain, etc.

I found the freedom NOSTR.COM and in Obsidian Plugin Nostr Writer by James.

I opened an account on NOSTR.COM and wrote my first article in Obsidian and pushed (published through #Nostr_relays. You can find some on https://legacy.nostr.watch/relays/find ) it with the help of Plugin Nostr Writer, and you can simply access my blog posts by looking for them using a #nostr_client, if you also open a free Nostr account (a set of public and private keys).

A thought came to me just now. Can I also link my Nostr articles (that is saved as obsidian note), if I link it here. So trying that now.

[[My honest take on Nostr]]

To be on a safer side I also link the Nostr ID for above post here.

https://primal.net//e/note198msk03wj9jfp904k50evlret6laurqhgxzrk2mq9kuq0v0ggh0sx879fv

@ c631e267:c2b78d3e

Die grauenvollste Aussicht ist die der Technokratie – \ einer kontrollierenden Herrschaft, \ die durch verstümmelte und verstümmelnde Geister ausgeübt wird. \ Ernst Jünger

«Davos ist nicht mehr sexy», das Weltwirtschaftsforum (WEF) mache Davos kaputt, diese Aussagen eines Einheimischen las ich kürzlich in der Handelszeitung. Während sich einige vor Ort enorm an der «teuersten Gewerbeausstellung der Welt» bereicherten, würden die negativen Begleiterscheinungen wie Wohnungsnot und Niedergang der lokalen Wirtschaft immer deutlicher.

Nächsten Montag beginnt in dem Schweizer Bergdorf erneut ein Jahrestreffen dieses elitären Clubs der Konzerne, bei dem man mit hochrangigen Politikern aus aller Welt und ausgewählten Vertretern der Systemmedien zusammenhocken wird. Wie bereits in den vergangenen vier Jahren wird die Präsidentin der EU-Kommission, Ursula von der Leyen, in Begleitung von Klaus Schwab ihre Grundsatzansprache halten.

Der deutsche WEF-Gründer hatte bei dieser Gelegenheit immer höchst lobende Worte für seine Landsmännin: 2021 erklärte er sich «stolz, dass Europa wieder unter Ihrer Führung steht» und 2022 fand er es bemerkenswert, was sie erreicht habe angesichts des «erstaunlichen Wandels», den die Welt in den vorangegangenen zwei Jahren erlebt habe; es gebe nun einen «neuen europäischen Geist».

Von der Leyens Handeln während der sogenannten Corona-«Pandemie» lobte Schwab damals bereits ebenso, wie es diese Woche das Karlspreis-Direktorium tat, als man der Beschuldigten im Fall Pfizergate die diesjährige internationale Auszeichnung «für Verdienste um die europäische Einigung» verlieh. Außerdem habe sie die EU nicht nur gegen den «Aggressor Russland», sondern auch gegen die «innere Bedrohung durch Rassisten und Demagogen» sowie gegen den Klimawandel verteidigt.

Jene Herausforderungen durch «Krisen epochalen Ausmaßes» werden indes aus dem Umfeld des WEF nicht nur herbeigeredet – wie man alljährlich zur Zeit des Davoser Treffens im Global Risks Report nachlesen kann, der zusammen mit dem Versicherungskonzern Zurich erstellt wird. Seit die Globalisten 2020/21 in der Praxis gesehen haben, wie gut eine konzertierte und konsequente Angst-Kampagne funktionieren kann, geht es Schlag auf Schlag. Sie setzen alles daran, Schwabs goldenes Zeitfenster des «Great Reset» zu nutzen.

Ziel dieses «großen Umbruchs» ist die totale Kontrolle der Technokraten über die Menschen unter dem Deckmantel einer globalen Gesundheitsfürsorge. Wie aber könnte man so etwas erreichen? Ein Mittel dazu ist die «kreative Zerstörung». Weitere unabdingbare Werkzeug sind die Einbindung, ja Gleichschaltung der Medien und der Justiz.

Ein «Great Mental Reset» sei die Voraussetzung dafür, dass ein Großteil der Menschen Einschränkungen und Manipulationen wie durch die Corona-Maßnahmen praktisch kritik- und widerstandslos hinnehme, sagt der Mediziner und Molekulargenetiker Michael Nehls. Er meint damit eine regelrechte Umprogrammierung des Gehirns, wodurch nach und nach unsere Individualität und unser soziales Bewusstsein eliminiert und durch unreflektierten Konformismus ersetzt werden.

Der aktuelle Zustand unserer Gesellschaften ist auch für den Schweizer Rechtsanwalt Philipp Kruse alarmierend. Durch den Umgang mit der «Pandemie» sieht er die Grundlagen von Recht und Vernunft erschüttert, die Rechtsstaatlichkeit stehe auf dem Prüfstand. Seiner dringenden Mahnung an alle Bürger, die Prinzipien von Recht und Freiheit zu verteidigen, kann ich mich nur anschließen.

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Dieser Beitrag ist zuerst auf Transition News erschienen.

@ 8781fe5d:4900ffa8

Episode 1 : La genèse

Octobre 2023, on sort à peine de l’explosion de $Pepe sur Ethereum qui est un peu la consécration de la culture meme avec grand papa PePe la grenouille 🔥

L’idée d’un projet de memecoin “story telling” était déjà présente mais surtout , je voulais montrer au monde qu’une vague de memecoins de type jeu décentralisé où chaque participant reçois un AirDrop et peut jouer à trader à son niveau était en train de démarrer et attirait déjà beaucoup de monde !

Pepe

Le choix d’une story à partir de PePe était réfléchit car je voulais être le premier sur RGB avec un PePe qui ne soit pas un scam ,pour changer 🤗😂

Je voulais être sur bitcoin , les Ordinals battaient leur plein et je cherchais comment fiée des smer contracts de type ETH sur Bitcoin 🔥 Dans ma recherche, je découvre le projet RGB qui semble correspondre parfaitement au besoin : un protocole indépendant, des smart contracts , privé et hors chain s’appuyant sur bitcoin ou liquid 👀

Étude , tests de la tech, tests avec l’unique wallet à l’époque : Bitmask de Diba.

C’est parti

Je crée un contrat RGB20 ( format pour les shitcoins) avec 21 millions de “PePeRGB” ! Je crée ensuite un modèle 3D , réalisé un site web minimaliste avec la story et quelques images .

J’écris un article expliquant le projet avec tutorial étape par étape pourr obtenir du PePeRGB contre quelques sats pour payer la Tx.

Jusque là, mon petit projet se déroule normalement : tout le monde s’en fou royalement 😱😂😂

À part @grittoshi et @swisscryptocat qui sont constamment les deux qui avaient déjà testé avant moi 🙏✊🏻😂🔥 (Retenez bien les @ car ils ont chacun un shitcoin sur Liquid ! Ils sont avec nous et nous avançons tous ensembles 🤗🤗)

ni hao

C’est alors qu’un étudiant chercheur chinois @DaPangDun me contacte en me disant qu’il étudie RGB et que des groupes WeChat se sont formés sur le sujet avec pas mal de monde . Il veut faire un post sur mon projet mais il veut participer ! Deal 🙏🔥

Bonne idée : le post est superbe et tout ce joli monde part en FOMO et veut du $pprgb !

J’étais pas prêt 😱

Gérer une communauté de 30000 personnes en fomo dans les 5 heures ne se fait pas comme cela !!

professionnel

Heureusement, j’ai de l’expérience de startup, de crypto, de projets 🙏

Création de whitelist , animation du groupe sur Twitter, création du groupe telegram avec gestion du mandarin ( je ne parle pas ). Tout s’organise plutôt bien en deux jours ( mémorables 30 heures intenses !)

Liquid

Deux mois de tests , de crash, de communauté qui post “wen boss” 32715 fois par jour , je prends une décision forte car la commu va s’essouffler et partir ur Solana qui commence à bien gonfler sur les memecoins !

Je fais un poll sur Twitter : Voulez vous : À- Attendre RGB sans token ? B- Avoir un AirDrop PPRGB liquid network et jouer demain avec ?

Résultat : 82% pour A 😂😂😂

À suivre …. 👀

@ 42342239:1d80db24

Preparedness is a hot topic these days. In Europe, Poland has recently introduced compulsory lessons in weapons handling for schoolchildren for war-preparedness purposes. In Sweden, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) has recently published the brochure on what to do "If crisis or war comes".

However, in the event of war, a country must have a robust energy infrastructure. Sweden does not seem to have this, at least judging by the recent years' electricity price turbulence in southern Sweden. Nor does Germany. The vulnerabilities are many and serious. It's hard not to be reminded of a Swedish prime minister who, just eleven years ago, saw defense as a special interest.

A secure food supply is another crucial factor for a country's resilience. This is something that Sweden lacks. In the early 1990s, nearly 75 percent of the country's food was produced domestically. Today, half of it must be imported. This makes our country more vulnerable to crises and disruptions. Despite our extensive agricultural areas, we are not even self-sufficient in basic commodities like potatoes, which is remarkable.

The government's signing of the Kunming-Montreal Framework for Biological Diversity two years ago risks exacerbating the situation. According to the framework, countries must significantly increase their protected areas over the coming years. The goal is to protect biological diversity. By 2030, at least 30% of all areas, on land and at sea, must be conserved. Sweden, which currently conserves around 15%, must identify large areas to be protected over the coming years. With shrinking fields, we risk getting less wheat, fewer potatoes, and less rapeseed. It's uncertain whether technological advancements can compensate for this, especially when the amount of pesticides and industrial fertilizers must be reduced significantly.

In Danish documents on the "roadmap for sustainable development" of the food system, the possibility of redistributing agricultural land (land distribution reforms) and agreements on financing for restoring cultivated land to wetlands (the restoration of cultivated, carbon-rich soils) are discussed. One cannot avoid the impression that the cultivated areas need to be reduced, in some cases significantly.

The green transition has been a priority on the political agenda in recent years, with the goal of reducing carbon emissions and increasing biological diversity. However, it has become clear that the transition risks having consequences for our preparedness.

One example is the debate about wind power. On the one hand, wind power is said to contribute to reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy. On the other hand, it is said to pose a security risk, as wind turbines can affect radio communication and radar surveillance.

Of course, it's easy to be in favor of biological diversity, but what do we do if this goal comes into conflict with the needs of a robust societal preparedness? Then we are faced with a difficult prioritization. Should we put the safety of people and society before the protection of nature, or vice versa?

“Politics is not the art of the possible. It consists in choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable” said J. K. Galbraith, one of the most influential economists of the 20th century. Maybe we can’t both eat the cake and have it too?

@ fbf0e434:e1be6a39

Hackathon 摘要

Ideahacker's Guide to IBC 是一场Interchain创意竞赛，旨在鼓励创新的跨链概念。此次活动注册了136个项目，吸引了319名开发者和非技术人员参与。与传统的Hackathon不同，这场创意竞赛要求参与者提交概念性想法，而非代码或产品原型，从而降低了参与门槛，鼓励了更广泛的参与。

创意竞赛发放了3万美元奖池的ATOM代币，以及一趟伊斯坦布尔的全程免费旅行，以奖励最具影响力的想法。项目从五个赛道中选出，并由Interchain Foundation和Osmosis Labs的行业领袖评审。

此次活动旨在展示跨链通信协议（IBC）的应用。参与者利用IBC Idea Builder开发并提交他们的提案，这些提案展示了诸如跨链账户、跨链NFT转移和数据查询等IBC功能。Interchain Foundation赞助了此次活动，以促进在区块链应用中对IBC协议的理解和使用，通过Discord等平台为社区提供资源和支持。

Hackathon获奖者

Chain Abstraction奖项获奖者

• Interchain Lending Market：一个去中心化的跨区块链稳定币借贷应用，利用IBC进行收益优化和通过DAO进行治理。
• Interchain Rights Broker：通过Story Protocol自动化许可和支付，在支持IBC的区块链上促进NFT许可。
• MetaKey: Seamless Interchain Wallet Abstraction：提供跨链钱包管理的统一接口，通过IBC增强互操作性和交易效率。
• DeathFi：使用IBC进行遗产数字资产管理的协议，包含去中心化遗嘱和NFT纪念。
• TransChain-Health：一个结合区块链和物联网的去中心化健康监测系统，提供数据透明性和分析。

Solana奖项获奖者

• TriAd：一个利用IBC和Solana进行高效广告管理的跨链广告交换平台。
• DAPM：跨区块链管理共享资本池，加强治理和财库功能，运用IBC。
• Solana-Sovereign Identity Protocol (SIP)：使用IBC简化跨链身份管理，确保去中心化身份的安全。
• IBCCraft Game：一个类似Minecraft的游戏，使用IBC进行跨链任务并奖励Solana。
• Privvy Protocol：通过IBC为跨链交易提供隐私管理，实现隐匿地址和私人交易。

Intents & Incentives奖项获奖者

• InterXecute：结合AI和IBC提升跨链交易，专注于低成本和高效路径。
• Cross-Chain Proposerless Block Building Mechanism for Relays in IBC Protocol：引入无提案者区块构建以优化IBC协议效率和成本。
• IBC + Solver Network：通过一个IBC求解器网络，加强以意图为中心的解决方案的跨链交易。
• Intents Bridge for IBC：使用以意图为驱动的方法和去中心化结算，提高交易速度和流动性。
• Creating a Crosschain DID on IBC：一个结合IBC和零知识证明的跨链身份证明系统，提供安全的身份管理。

DeFi Apps奖项获奖者

• Vector Protocol：通过智能合约和IBC管理互链债务，以提升成本效率和风险管理。
• InterChain Asset Streaming Protocol (XASP)：利用IBC实现跨链的实时资产流传和投资组合管理。
• SwapGuard：为Cosmos提供MEV保护的全面DeFi交易解决方案。
• BlocPayroll：利用IBC简化国际薪酬流程，提供安全的加密薪酬解决方案。
• Cross-Chain XTF (DeX Traded Fund)：利用IBC促进跨链投资，改善投资组合管理和成本效率。

Wild Card奖项获奖者

• cross chain：利用IBC进行统一的跨链资产管理和奖励分配的Staking聚合器。
• Cryptocurrency Debit Card Infrastructure：通过借记卡支持加密到法币交易，利用IBC实现无缝转换。
• HTTPi：一个利用IBC进行客户端与服务器间去中心化数据交换的安全协议。
• IBC Lens (Data Visualizer for Celestia and Rollups using IBC)：提供IBC生态系统中跨链交互的实时可视化。
• Realm：一个利用IBC进行多区块链奖励管理的跨链赏金平台。

欲获得完整项目列表及更多详细信息，请访问Ideahacker's Guide to IBC Ideathon。

关于组织者

Interchain Foundation

Interchain Foundation专注于开发和支持称为互链的可互操作区块链网络生态系统。该组织促进区块链行业内的合作与创新，重视多链通信和可扩展性。通过其技术专长和领导力，基金会支持推动去中心化网络互操作性的各项倡议。它致力于创造一个无缝连接的区块链未来，并鼓励行业参与以推动多链生态系统的发展。

@ ed84ce10:cccf4c2a

Hackathon Summary

The Ideahacker's Guide to IBC was an interchain ideathon designed to encourage innovative cross-chain concepts. This event saw the registration of 136 projects and participation from 319 developers and non-technical contributors. Unlike traditional hackathons, this ideathon required participants to submit conceptual ideas instead of code or product prototypes, which encouraged broader participation due to its lower entry barrier.

The ideathon distributed a $30,000 prize pool in ATOM tokens, along with an all-expenses-paid trip to Istanbul, to reward the most impactful ideas. Projects were selected from five tracks and judged by industry leaders from the Interchain Foundation and Osmosis Labs.

The event aimed to demonstrate the applications of the Inter-Blockchain Communication Protocol (IBC). Participants utilized the IBC Idea Builder to develop and submit their proposals, which showcased IBC features like interchain accounts, cross-chain NFT transfers, and data queries. The Interchain Foundation sponsored the event to promote understanding and use of the IBC protocol across blockchain applications, engaging the community with resources and support through platforms like Discord.

Hackathon Winners

Chain Abstraction Prize Winners

• Interchain Lending Market: A decentralized application for stablecoin lending across blockchains, leveraging IBC for yield optimization and governance via DAOs.
• Interchain Rights Broker: Facilitates NFT licensing across IBC-enabled blockchains with automated licensing and payments through Story Protocol.
• MetaKey: Seamless Interchain Wallet Abstraction: Offers a unified interface for cross-chain wallet management, enhancing interoperability and transaction efficiency via IBC.
• DeathFi: A protocol for posthumous digital asset management using IBC, featuring decentralized wills and NFT memorials.
• TransChain-Health: A decentralized health monitoring system integrating blockchain and IoT for data transparency and analysis.

Solana Prize Winners

• TriAd: A cross-chain ad exchange platform utilizing IBC and Solana for efficient ad management.
• DAPM: Manages shared capital pools across blockchains, enhancing governance and treasury functions with IBC.
• Solana- Sovereign Identity Protocol (SIP): Simplifies cross-chain identity management with IBC for secure decentralized identity.
• IBCCraft Game: A Minecraft-like game using IBC for cross-chain quests and Solana rewards.
• Privvy Protocol: Facilitates privacy management for cross-chain transactions via IBC, enabling stealth addresses and private transactions.

Intents & Incentives Prize Winners

• InterXecute: Enhances cross-chain transactions with AI and IBC, focusing on low-cost, efficient routing.
• Cross-Chain Proposerless Block Building Mechanism for Relays in IBC Protocol: Introduces proposerless block building to optimize IBC protocol efficiency and cost.
• IBC + Solver Network: Strengthens cross-chain transactions with intent-centric solutions supported by an IBC solver network.
• Intents Bridge for IBC: Boosts transaction speed and liquidity using an intent-driven approach and decentralized settlement.
• Creating a Crosschain DID on IBC: A cross-chain proof of identity system integrating IBC and zero-knowledge proofs for secure identity management.

DeFi Apps Prize Winners

• Vector Protocol: Manages interchain debt with smart contracts and IBC for cost efficiency and risk management.
• InterChain Asset Streaming Protocol (XASP): Enables real-time asset streaming and portfolio management across chains utilizing IBC.
• SwapGuard: Provides protection against MEV in Cosmos with a comprehensive DeFi trading solution.
• BlocPayroll: Simplifies international payroll processes using IBC, offering secure crypto payroll solutions.
• Cross-Chain XTF (DeX Traded Fund): Facilitates cross-chain investment with IBC, improving portfolio management and cost efficiency.

Wild Card Prize Winners

• cross chain: A staking aggregator using IBC for unified cross-chain asset management and reward distribution.
• Cryptocurrency Debit Card Infrastructure: Supports crypto-to-fiat transactions via debit cards, leveraging IBC for seamless conversions.
• HTTPi: A secure protocol employing IBC for decentralized data exchange between clients and servers.
• IBC Lens (Data Visualizer for Celestia and Rollups using IBC): Provides real-time visualization of cross-chain interactions in the IBC ecosystem.
• Realm: A cross-chain bounty platform utilizing IBC to manage multi-blockchain rewards for content creators.

For a comprehensive list of all projects and more detailed information, visit the Ideahacker's Guide to IBC Ideathon.

About the Organizer

Interchain Foundation

The Interchain Foundation is focused on developing and supporting the ecosystem of interoperable blockchain networks known as the interchain. The organization promotes collaboration and innovation within the blockchain industry, with an emphasis on multichain communication and scalability. Through its technical expertise and leadership, the foundation supports initiatives that drive interoperability across decentralized networks. It is committed to creating a seamless interconnected blockchain future and encourages industry involvement to advance the multichain ecosystem.

@ f9cf4e94:96abc355

Para esse exemplo iremos usar: | Nome | Imagem | Descrição | | --------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------ | | Raspberry PI B+ | | Cortex-A53 (ARMv8) 64-bit a 1.4GHz e 1 GB de SDRAM LPDDR2, | | Pen drive | | 16Gb |

Recomendo que use o Ubuntu Server para essa instalação. Você pode baixar o Ubuntu para Raspberry Pi aqui. O passo a passo para a instalação do Ubuntu no Raspberry Pi está disponível aqui. Não instale um desktop (como xubuntu, lubuntu, xfce, etc.).

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Passo 1: Atualizar o Sistema 🖥️

Primeiro, atualize seu sistema e instale o Tor:

bash apt update apt install tor

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Passo 2: Criar o Arquivo de Serviço nrs.service 🔧

Crie o arquivo de serviço que vai gerenciar o servidor Nostr. Você pode fazer isso com o seguinte conteúdo:

```unit [Unit] Description=Nostr Relay Server Service After=network.target

[Service] Type=simple WorkingDirectory=/opt/nrs ExecStart=/opt/nrs/nrs-arm64 Restart=on-failure

[Install] WantedBy=multi-user.target ```

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Passo 3: Baixar o Binário do Nostr 🚀

Baixe o binário mais recente do Nostr aqui no GitHub.

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Passo 4: Criar as Pastas Necessárias 📂

Agora, crie as pastas para o aplicativo e o pendrive:

bash mkdir -p /opt/nrs /mnt/edriver

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Passo 5: Listar os Dispositivos Conectados 🔌

Para saber qual dispositivo você vai usar, liste todos os dispositivos conectados:

bash lsblk

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Passo 6: Formatando o Pendrive 💾

Escolha o pendrive correto (por exemplo, /dev/sda) e formate-o:

bash mkfs.vfat /dev/sda

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Passo 7: Montar o Pendrive 💻

Monte o pendrive na pasta /mnt/edriver:

bash mount /dev/sda /mnt/edriver

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Passo 8: Verificar UUID dos Dispositivos 📋

Para garantir que o sistema monte o pendrive automaticamente, liste os UUID dos dispositivos conectados:

bash blkid

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Passo 9: Alterar o fstab para Montar o Pendrive Automáticamente 📝

Abra o arquivo /etc/fstab e adicione uma linha para o pendrive, com o UUID que você obteve no passo anterior. A linha deve ficar assim:

fstab UUID=9c9008f8-f852 /mnt/edriver vfat defaults 0 0

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Passo 10: Copiar o Binário para a Pasta Correta 📥

Agora, copie o binário baixado para a pasta /opt/nrs:

bash cp nrs-arm64 /opt/nrs

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Passo 11: Criar o Arquivo de Configuração 🛠️

Crie o arquivo de configuração com o seguinte conteúdo e salve-o em /opt/nrs/config.yaml:

yaml app_env: production info: name: Nostr Relay Server description: Nostr Relay Server pub_key: "" contact: "" url: http://localhost:3334 icon: https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u= https://public.bnbstatic.com/image/cms/crawler/COINCU_NEWS/image-495-1024x569.png base_path: /mnt/edriver negentropy: true

---

Passo 12: Copiar o Serviço para o Diretório de Systemd ⚙️

Agora, copie o arquivo nrs.service para o diretório /etc/systemd/system/:

bash cp nrs.service /etc/systemd/system/

Recarregue os serviços e inicie o serviço nrs:

bash systemctl daemon-reload systemctl enable --now nrs.service

---

Passo 13: Configurar o Tor 🌐

Abra o arquivo de configuração do Tor /var/lib/tor/torrc e adicione a seguinte linha:

torrc HiddenServiceDir /var/lib/tor/nostr_server/ HiddenServicePort 80 127.0.0.1:3334

---

Passo 14: Habilitar e Iniciar o Tor 🧅

Agora, ative e inicie o serviço Tor:

bash systemctl enable --now tor.service

O Tor irá gerar um endereço .onion para o seu servidor Nostr. Você pode encontrá-lo no arquivo /var/lib/tor/nostr_server/hostname.

---

Observações ⚠️

• Com essa configuração, os dados serão salvos no pendrive, enquanto o binário ficará no cartão SD do Raspberry Pi.
• O endereço .onion do seu servidor Nostr será algo como: ws://y3t5t5wgwjif<exemplo>h42zy7ih6iwbyd.onion.

---

Agora, seu servidor Nostr deve estar configurado e funcionando com Tor! 🥳

Se este artigo e as informações aqui contidas forem úteis para você, convidamos a considerar uma doação ao autor como forma de reconhecimento e incentivo à produção de novos conteúdos.

@ a012dc82:6458a70d

Over the past decade, the cryptocurrency landscape has witnessed unprecedented growth, with Bitcoin undeniably at its forefront. As the trailblazer of digital currencies, Bitcoin has not only introduced the world to the possibilities of decentralized finance but has also inspired the creation of thousands of other cryptocurrencies. Yet, among the myriad of developments in the crypto domain, the advent of Bitcoin ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) stands out. These innovative financial instruments have not only revolutionized how investors perceive and interact with Bitcoin but have also provided a bridge between the volatile world of cryptocurrencies and the more stable, regulated realm of traditional finance.

Table Of Content

• What is a Bitcoin ETF?

• Why are Bitcoin ETFs Important?

• The Current Landscape of Bitcoin ETFs

• How to Invest in a Bitcoin ETF

• Conclusion

• FAQs

What is a Bitcoin ETF?

At its core, a Bitcoin ETF is a financial instrument designed to track the price movements of Bitcoin. Rather than diving into the intricate world of cryptocurrencies—buying Bitcoin directly, grappling with the nuances of digital wallets, or navigating the often complex landscape of crypto exchanges—investors can now simply purchase shares of a Bitcoin ETF. These shares are traded just like any other stock on traditional stock exchanges, offering a seamless integration of Bitcoin into conventional investment portfolios.

Why are Bitcoin ETFs Important?

Accessibility: One of the primary advantages of Bitcoin ETFs is their accessibility. They open the doors for everyday investors, even those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the crypto world, to gain exposure to Bitcoin. There's no need to delve into the technical aspects of purchasing, storing, or securing the cryptocurrency—Bitcoin ETFs simplify the entire process.

Regulation: Being listed and traded on recognized stock exchanges means that Bitcoin ETFs come under the purview of financial regulators. This regulatory oversight ensures a degree of transparency and protection for investors, something that's often amiss in the wild west of direct cryptocurrency investments.

Diversification: For seasoned investors and newcomers alike, diversification is a cornerstone of a robust investment strategy. Bitcoin ETFs offer a golden opportunity to tap into the burgeoning cryptocurrency market without the direct volatility and risks tied to holding the actual digital assets.

The Current Landscape of Bitcoin ETFs

The concept of a Bitcoin ETF isn't new. However, its journey to mainstream acceptance has been riddled with regulatory challenges. Many countries, initially hesitant, have taken a cautious approach, leading to delays in the adoption of Bitcoin ETFs. But as the broader financial community becomes more attuned to the potential benefits (and risks) of cryptocurrencies, we're witnessing a gradual shift. Regulators are now more open, and approvals for Bitcoin ETFs in major financial markets are on the rise. This evolving landscape has sparked renewed interest, with both institutional and retail investors keenly exploring these novel investment avenues.

How to Invest in a Bitcoin ETF

The process of investing in a Bitcoin ETF mirrors that of any other traditional investment vehicle. Here's an elaborated guide:

Research: Embarking on any investment journey necessitates thorough research. It's imperative to delve deep, understand the nuances, and compare the various Bitcoin ETFs available in the market. Look into their past performance, management strategies, and fee structures.

Choose a Brokerage: Once you've zeroed in on a Bitcoin ETF that aligns with your investment goals, the next step is to select a suitable brokerage. Opt for one that offers your chosen Bitcoin ETF and boasts a reputation for reliability and security.

Buy Shares: With your brokerage account set up, you're all set to make your purchase. Navigate to the trading platform, search for your chosen Bitcoin ETF, decide on the number of shares you wish to buy, and execute the trade. It's as simple as buying shares of any other company.

Conclusion

The emergence of Bitcoin ETFs signifies a monumental shift in the financial world. It's a testament to the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies and their potential to coexist with traditional financial instruments. As the crypto ecosystem continues to evolve, mature, and gain broader acceptance, the allure of Bitcoin ETFs is set to grow. For investors, this evolution offers a unique vantage point—a chance to be at the intersection of time-tested financial principles and the dynamic world of digital currencies.

FAQs

What is a Bitcoin ETF? A Bitcoin ETF is a financial instrument that tracks the price of Bitcoin, allowing investors to buy its shares on traditional stock exchanges.

Why choose a Bitcoin ETF over direct Bitcoin investment? Bitcoin ETFs offer easier accessibility, regulatory oversight, and a way to diversify investments without dealing with the complexities of direct cryptocurrency handling.

Are Bitcoin ETFs regulated? Yes, Bitcoin ETFs traded on established stock exchanges are subject to regulatory oversight, providing added protection for investors.

How do I invest in a Bitcoin ETF? Start with research, choose a reputable brokerage that offers the Bitcoin ETF you're interested in, and then purchase its shares like you would with any other stock.

Are Bitcoin ETFs a safer investment than Bitcoin? While no investment is risk-free, Bitcoin ETFs offer a layer of protection due to regulatory oversight and eliminate the risks associated with direct handling and storage of cryptocurrencies.

That's all for today

If you want more, be sure to follow us on:

NOSTR: croxroad@getalby.com

X: @croxroadnews

Instagram: @croxroadnews.co

Youtube: @croxroadnews

Store: https://croxroad.store

Subscribe to CROX ROAD Bitcoin Only Daily Newsletter

https://www.croxroad.co/subscribe

DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.

@ 6be5cc06:5259daf0

1. Not your keys, not your coins

Se você não tem as chaves privadas do seu Bitcoin, ele não é realmente seu. Deixar seus BTCs em exchanges ou carteiras controladas por terceiros significa confiar neles e assumir o risco de perder seus fundos.

---

1. HODL - Não venda

O Bitcoin é uma reserva de valor a longo prazo e potencialmente o dinheiro do futuro. Não se desespere com as flutuações de preço; mantenha seus BTCs, pois o histórico se mostra favorável.

---

1. Stay humble - Não saia falando que você tem BTC

Manter discrição sobre seu patrimônio é uma questão de segurança e humildade. Falar demais pode atrair curiosos, oportunistas ou outras ameaças.

---

1. Don't trust, verify

No Bitcoin, confie no protocolo, não em pessoas. Sempre que possível, verifique por conta própria, seja transações, códigos ou informações.

---

1. Reject altcoins

As altcoins podem parecer promissoras, mas frequentemente são distrações ou apostas arriscadas. Foque no Bitcoin, que já provou ser sólido e resistente.

---

1. Stack sats - DCA

Empilhe satoshis consistentemente, utilizando a estratégia de DCA (Dollar Cost Averaging), comprando regularmente independentemente do preço. Isso reduz o risco de tentar "acertar o mercado".

---

1. Reject the ego

Não aposte contra o Bitcoin. Aqueles que subestimaram sua força ou estabilidade, perderam.

---

1. Keep learning

Nunca pare de estudar sobre Bitcoin, economia e a tecnologia por trás dele. Quanto mais você entende, mais confiança terá em sua decisão.

---

1. Help beginners

O Bitcoin pode ser complicado para quem está começando. Compartilhe seus conhecimentos com paciência para fortalecer a comunidade.

---

1. Don't push it

Cada pessoa tem seu próprio tempo para entender e entrar no mundo do Bitcoin. Forçar alguém pode ser contraproducente; dê direcionamento e deixe o tempo agir.

@ 378562cd:a6fc6773

In the ever-changing world of decentralized networks, Nostr (Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted by Relays) is leading the charge. Its lightweight, open design has created an ecosystem that’s as adaptable as it is revolutionary. Whether you're chatting, publishing, or experimenting with new ways to connect, Nostr provides the foundation for a truly decentralized and censorship-resistant internet.

---

How Nostr Works: A Quick Overview

At its heart, Nostr is built on simplicity and decentralization. Here’s a breakdown of its core components:

1. Public and Private Keys:\ Your public key acts as your identity, and private keys ensure your messages are securely signed.

2. Relays:\ Relays are decentralized servers that distribute messages. They don’t own your data but simply pass it along to those who request it.

3. Clients:\ Clients are the user-facing applications where you interact with Nostr, offering diverse features and designs.

---

Deep Dive: Events in Nostr

Everything on Nostr revolves around events, which are cryptographically signed pieces of information containing various kinds of data. Here are the types of events currently supported and their use cases:

1. Note Events (Type 1)

• What They Are:\ These are the bread and butter of Nostr—text-based posts, much like tweets or status updates on traditional platforms.
• Features:
• Can include text, media links, and hashtags.
• Interact with others through likes, replies, and boosts (reposts).
• Use Cases:\ Perfect for microblogging, status updates, and general social interaction.

2. Profile Metadata Events (Type 0)

• What They Are:\ This event type stores and updates user profile information, such as your display name, bio, profile picture, and website.
• Features:
• Easily editable and updated across all Nostr clients.
• Keeps your identity consistent across platforms.
• Use Cases:\ Makes profile portability seamless—update once, and it reflects everywhere.

3. Relay List Events (Type 2)

• What They Are:\ These events store a list of relays that a user is connected to or prefers to use.
• Features:
• Share your relay preferences across devices or clients.
• Allows automatic relay connection in supported clients.
• Use Cases:\ Simplifies the onboarding process for users switching clients or devices.

4. Direct Message Events (Type 4)

• What They Are:\ End-to-end encrypted messages sent directly between two users.
• Features:
• Only readable by the intended recipient.
• Supports text and basic formatting.
• Use Cases:\ Secure communication for personal or professional purposes.

5. Reaction Events (Type 7)

• What They Are:\ Events that express reactions to other events, such as likes or emojis.
• Features:
• Provides social feedback (e.g., showing appreciation for a post).
• Lightweight and simple to implement.
• Use Cases:\ Enhances engagement and interaction within the network.

6. Repost Events (Type 6)

• What They Are:\ Events that allow users to reshare content, similar to retweets on Twitter.
• Features:
• Ensures the original poster retains credit.
• Enables broader content visibility.
• Use Cases:\ Amplifying content that resonates with users or is worth sharing.

7. Custom Event Types (Beyond Type 7)

• What They Are:\ Developers can create and define custom event types for specific applications.
• Features:
• Flexibility to introduce entirely new functionality.
• Supported based on client and relay compatibility.
• Use Cases:\ Enables innovation, from collaborative editing tools to advanced publishing workflows.

---

What Makes Events Special?

1. Portability: Events follow your public key, not the client or relay, ensuring they’re available wherever you go.
2. Interoperability: All events are standardized, meaning any Nostr client can understand and process them.
3. Extensibility: Through custom event types, the protocol encourages experimentation and development.

---

Primal: A Favorite Client for Engaging Events

Among the many clients, Primal stands out as a favorite for how it handles Nostr events. Its emphasis on content discovery and rich user interaction makes it an excellent choice for exploring everything the protocol offers. Whether it’s crafting note events, managing profile metadata, or diving into direct messaging, Primal delivers a polished experience that feels seamless.

---

The Future of Nostr Events

As Nostr continues to evolve, so will the events it supports. Imagine event types for live streaming, collaborative workspaces, or even decentralized governance. The possibilities are limitless, driven by the creativity of the developers and the needs of the community.

Have you explored the potential of Nostr events yet? What’s your favorite client or feature? Let’s discuss below! ⚡️

Nostr #Primal #Decentralization #NostrEvents #FutureOfWeb

@ f7922a0a:82c34788

Now that the 3rd Satellite Skirmish is complete I wanted to highlight some of the cool features on embrace.satskirmish.com

This is what the cutting edge of podcasting 2.0 looks like imo. Live video in an app that allows you to send sats to the artists in real time.

On the left hand side we have a Boost score borad that displays the total amount of sats that have come in during the show, live Boosts/Booastagrams as they come in, total amount of sats from each person Boosting and total amount sent from each app.

The middle is ovisaly the video of the band playing but with some graphics around it and Boost alerts that show up on the screen in the form of snow flakes for this one.

The righthand side is an IRC chat window that connects to an IRC server that the No Agenda community has used for 18+ years thanks to zoidzero++.

The bottom of the page is where things get cool. When you click the Boost the Crew button in the center you can send a Boost that gets split between everyone helping produce the show (hightlighted in yellow).

Each band also has their own Boost button so you can Boost them while they are playing or anytime you visit the page.

@ ed5774ac:45611c5c

A good question. I do not think so. I will explain below why, but first where did this question come from?

The statement that Tether is a Bitcoin company was recently made by Samson Mow in X (here) in a response to Paolo Ardoino’s initial Tweet about Tether’s $775 million investment on Rumble (here).

In response to Samson Mow's statement, I expressed my disagreement by pointing out that Tether prints USDT “out of thin air” and uses these funds to purchase US Treasuries, which in effect helps finance US debt and fund military operations.

In my opinion, a bitcoin company should not provide life support to the current broken financial system that is built on the US dollar's status as a global reserve currency, allowing a small group of Western elites to control the system and exploit it for wealth transfer.

“The root problem with conventional currency is all the trust that’s required to make it work. The central bank must be trusted not to debase the currency, but the history of fiat currencies is full of breaches of that trust.”(Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System)

I believe that the primary purpose of bitcoin is to replace the current fraudulent system, not to support it. My assessment is based on this fundamental principle, and I therefore disagree with Samson’s statement. In short, Tether does not align with bitcoin’s purpose of existence, a point to which I will return later.

First, it is necessary to clarify the logic behind my “Tether prints USDT out of thin air” statement as Samson Mow shifted the focus of conversation merely to this specific point instead of clarifying how he considers Tether as a bitcoin company in light of its actions (i.e., financing US debt and thereby funding the US war machine).

My next tweet aimed to highlight the trust concerns inherent in Proof of Stake, a concept that should be familiar to Samson Mow, where ETH holders validate transactions by staking their holdings, creating a system that relies on the implicit trustworthiness of these validators.

In response to my reasoning and explanation, Samson initially claimed that Tether is not proof of stake. Next, in a subsequent tweet where I asked for clarification on whether Tether is on the Ethereum blockchain, he acknowledged this point but introduced a new argument suggesting that Tether's situation has nothing to do with PoS. This claim is, to be frank, disconnected from reality and raises questions about Samson Mow’s true motivations.

Following my discussion with Samson Mow on X, I decided to provide further clarification on the reasoning behind my statement that "Tether prints USDT out of thin air". The underlying logic of this argument can be grasped by examining two crucial factors: Proof of Work (PoW) and debt.

Proof of Work:

A critical examination of Tether's USDT issuance requires a deeper understanding of the PoW.

When individuals exchange their dollars for USDT, they are essentially trading earned value (their time and energy) for a digital representation thereof. However, Tether's issuance of new USDT units occurs without incurring any cost or spending resources, effectively creating digital tokens that represent claims on value rather than value itself.

In stark contrast, the creation of new bitcoins is facilitated through a competitive mining, wherein miners use computational power (spend energy) to validate transactions and create new blocks, thereby earning newly minted bitcoins as a reward for their efforts. Similarly, in gold mining, the discovery of new deposits is the result of the investment of time, energy, and resources by miners. Likewise, individuals who are employees or entrepreneurs invest their time and energy to generate income or profit.

This underscores a fundamental principle: that genuine value creation typically results from tangible efforts, and resource allocations, distinguishing it from mechanisms that generate value without any corresponding expenditures.

Unlike the aforementioned examples, Tether's mechanism for creating USDT operates under a distinctly different paradigm. Tether issues USDT without expending time, energy, or resources. Instead, individuals give Tether their hard-earned money in exchange for an IOU certificate represented by USDT. This is in theory, assuming that Tether is an honest player and only mints USDT when a user transfers corresponding USD. In practice, however, there are several factors that complicate the verification of Tether's claim regarding the backing of USDT with USD.

One issue with Tether operating on Ethereum is that transactions are validated by ETH stakeholders by staking their ETH. This introduces an element of trust in third-party (validators), raising concerns in the integrity of the ledger.

Additionally, in contrast to Bitcoin's blockchain, Proof of Stake blockchains do not have a clear "chain" of hashes linking each block back to its predecessor through a computationally intensive process, since there's no mining involved in creating new blocks (as blocks are proposed by validators based on their stake), thereby preventing verification of historical transaction validity. As a result, the current state of a Proof of Stake blockchain reflects only the validators' confirmation without providing any assurance regarding its historical accuracy or integrity.

Most significantly, there exists no inherent mechanism, as far as I am aware of, preventing Tether from minting additional USDT without corresponding USD backing and transferring to an ETH address under their control and buying real assets (such as bitcoin) with it.

In my opinion, these considerations underscore significant challenges on transparency, accountability and oversight within Tether’s operations. In other words, the entire system relies on the honesty of Tether and Ethereum validators as trusted third parties, which contradicts Bitcoin's fundamental principle that eliminates the need for trusted intermediaries in transactions as described by Satoshi Nakamoto in Bitcoin White Paper. (source: bitcoin white paper)

While Bitcoin's decentralized architecture eliminates the need for intermediaries, Tether as a centralized entity controls the issuance and management of USDT and relies on ETH validators for the validity of transactions. This centralized control enables Tether & Ethereum to unilaterally freeze, blacklist, or manipulate accounts at their discretion, as evidenced by past incidents and potential future actions. Furthermore, USDT holdings are exposed to counterparty risk, as holders are only entitled to redeem their funds if Tether maintains its solvency and adheres to a 100% reserve requirement which are significant question marks as explained in previous paragraphs.

Debt:

Even if the claim that all USDT tokens are fully backed is true, it is essential to recognize that USDT is ultimately backed by fiat currency, which itself is debt —whether in the form of dollars or U.S. Treasuries. Consequently, the statement “Tether prints USDT out of thin air” is not entirely unfounded, as the creation of new USDT tokens is effectively facilitated by the issuance of new debt instruments.

How does USD come to existence? As many bitcoiners know very well, they are simply printed out of thin air by FED. This process is facilitated by the US government's issuance of debt certificates, including short-term Treasury bills and long-term Treasury bonds. The value of these debt instruments is derived from the expectation that the US government will honor its obligations by repaying the indicated amount of USD to certificate holders in the future, primarily through tax revenue collected from its citizens. In essence, these debt certificates represent IOUs and their value is contingent upon the credibility of the US government's promise to fulfill its debt obligations. The entire system relies on a collective belief in the government's creditworthiness, rather than any tangible asset backing it. Even if Tether's USDT is assumed to be backed 1-to-1 with USD, it is ultimately backed by nothing but the US government's fiat currency, which is itself created out of thin air. This highlights the tenuous nature of USDT's backing, as it is predicated on trust in the US government's ability to pay its debt.

In contrast to Bitcoin, which is decentralized money, independent of any third-party liability, holding USDT introduces multiple layers of third-party liability such as:

• Trust in the integrity of the Ethereum network & in the honesty of ETH stakeholders who validate transactions and maintain the ledger.

• Trust in Tether's financial stability and solvency, as well as its commitment to honoring its obligations, thereby mitigating the risk of bankruptcy or fraudulent activities.

• Trust in the creditworthiness of the US government, as the value of USDT is ultimately tied to the value of US Treasury securities held by Tether.

These cumulative risks underscore the significance of third-party liability in the context of USDT ownership.

In conclusion, the statement “Tether prints USDT out of thin air” is based on the fact that USDT is minted by Tether without incurring any cost or spending resources, there is no mechanism to prove that Tether maintains 100% reserves and USDT is ultimately backed by fiat currency, which itself is debt created out of thin air by the FED. Therefore, “Tether prints USDT out of thin air” notion is not entirely unfounded and highlights the tenuous nature of USDT's backing.

Tether finances US debt and war machine by buying US Treasuries:

Having laid out the logic behind my statement that “Tether prints USDT out of thin air,” I will now move on to the main argument underlying my position: namely, that Tether is not a bitcoin company because its acquisition of US debt provides life support to a profoundly corrupt and exploitative financial system, which enables a small cabal of western elites exploit the rest of the world to further enrich themselves. The fundamental purpose of bitcoin is to replace this broken system, not to provide life support to it.

The current financial system:

erodes the purchasing power of working-class individuals through inflation

• excludes a significant portion of the global population from accessing to financial services

• preserves ‘the rules-based global order’ (as it is called by the West) that exploits developing nations for the benefit of a privileged few in Western countries

• concentrates control in the hands of an unscrupulous banking cartel and self-proclaimed elites

At the heart of the existing financial system lies the US dollar's role as a global reserve currency that grants the US government considerable leverage to enforce its economic and geopolitical interests. By controlling USD flows, the US can impose financial sanctions on nations that refuse to comply with its rules and norms.

In instances where financial coercion proves ineffective, the US has historically resorted to alternative measures, including military intervention and covert operations, aimed at bringing disobedient countries into compliance with its policy directives. Historical records are full of examples.

• [ ] In 1953, the United States and the United Kingdom collaborated to orchestrate a coup d'état in Iran, resulting in the overthrow of the democratically elected government of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh. This action was carried out following Mossadegh's decision to nationalise Iranian oil companies, which were vital to the West's economic interests.

• [ ] The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) played a substantial role in supporting a coup against Salvador Allende, the democratically elected President of Chile in 1970, because they were concerned that Allende's policies would lead to a shift towards socialism and potentially even communism, which was seen as a threat to US interests in the region.

• [ ] Saddam Hussein's decision to transition Iraq's oil transactions from US dollars to euros was a major factor contributing to his downfall. By challenging the existing global financial system, Hussein became a threat to the global financial order and therefore paid the price with his life.

• [ ] Muammar Gaddafi proposed the establishment of a gold-based currency, known as the gold dinar, intended for use in African oil transactions. This initiative aimed to create a pan-African currency independent of both the US dollar and euro, potentially undermining their influence in regional trade. The perceived threat posed by this proposal to the global financial order has been the main factor to Libya's destabilization and Gaddafi's eventual demise.

• [ ] The overthrow of Ukraine's democratically elected president in 2014 by a CIA orchestrated a coup d'état, with Victoria Nuland, then-Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, playing a key role in the operation. The intervention was motivated by Western corporations’ desire to colonize Russia and use its resources as collateral to prolong the life of the global financial system that has become unsustainable with its current debt levels.

Those interested in understanding the mechanics of the current financial system or learning about the historical crimes committed by West against the Global South are invited to contact me directly. I can provide access to a comprehensive collection of resources that document these issues. However, due to space and time constraints, it is not feasible to elaborate on these topics in detail here.

The statement that Tether is primarily a bitcoin company is entirely unfounded since Tether provides significant support to the current financial system. The US government is currently facing challenges in financing its debt due to decreasing global confidence in its ability to repay its obligations. This is evident in the fact that China has ceased purchasing US debt, while Russia has sold off its entire holdings prior to the Special Military Operation (SMO). Furthermore, private investors are increasingly wary of investing in US debt, citing concerns over its sustainability. Currently, the UK and EU are the only entities actively buying US debt, which, along with the US, are the other two pillars of the existing global financial order. Notably, Tether has emerged as a substantial purchaser of US debt (approximately $100 billion at the time of writing), effectively serving as a vital lifeline for the prolongation of the Western colonial order.

Tether is NOT a bitcoin company. In my opinion, it is fair to say that those who claim that Tether is a bitcoin company are either lacking in critical thinking or have a financial stake that compromises their objectivity.

It is true that it helps bitcoin adoption and by providing liquidity contributes to the upward momentum of bitcoin price. I believe, it is likely that the current price of bitcoin would be significantly lower without Tether's involvement. This raises important questions about the motivations and values of those involved in the bitcoin community who claim that Tether is a bitcoin company. Can their support for Bitcoin be attributed to a sincere interest in advancing the principles of decentralization and sovereignty, or might it be influenced by self-interest and the pursuit of personal wealth? Are there other potential motivations or conflicts of interest at play?

As outlined in this article, I have concerns regarding Tether's alignment with the principles that underpin Bitcoin’s core values. My critique is not intended to be accusatory, but rather to encourage critical evaluation. I acknowledge and appreciate Tether's contribution to bitcoin ecosystem and see their investment in Rumble as a positive development for freedom of speech and recognize Samson's dedication for Bitcoin adoption. However, my appreciation for their efforts does not imply unconditional trust.

The defensive responses of some individuals within the community to my criticisms (without any reasonable counterarguments) have raised questions for me about their potential biases and motivations. While I do not aim to convince those who misinterpret my intentions, I will exercise increased suspicion when engaging with individuals who appear more focused on protecting Tether's interests than upholding the principles of Bitcoin.

In summary, I believe that Tether's role in propping up the current financial system - intentionally or not - underscores the need for skepticism and critical thinking. As global events continue to unfold with unprecedented speed and complexity, it's essential to remember: 'Don't trust, verify!'

@ 0403c86a:66d3a378

The Kansas City Chiefs are set to begin their quest for an unprecedented Super Bowl three-peat on Saturday, facing the Houston Texans in the AFC Divisional Playoffs. Here’s everything you need to know heading into the highly anticipated matchup:

Key Player Updates

• Patrick Mahomes (QB): Cleared to play despite a recent ankle injury, Mahomes is ready to lead his team. Head coach Andy Reid praised his mental toughness, saying Mahomes is “back in the saddle.”
• Isiah Pacheco (RB), Chris Jones (DL), and D.J. Humphries (T): All cleared to play, giving the Chiefs their key contributors on offense and defense.
• Jaylen Watson (CB): Activated from injured reserve, strengthening the Chiefs' secondary.
• Mecole Hardman (WR): Remains on IR and is doubtful for the game, leaving the Chiefs without one of their speediest weapons.

The Matchup

The Chiefs, led by Mahomes, come into this game with a 24-day rest period, the longest in NFL history. It remains to be seen whether the extended break will give them an edge or lead to rust. Mahomes, the winningest quarterback through seven seasons in NFL history (including playoffs), is also undefeated (6-0) in divisional playoff games.

The Houston Texans, on the other hand, are flying high after a dominant 32-12 wild-card victory over the Chargers. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has been a revelation this season, and the Texans’ defense, featuring stars like Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter, has been a force. Anderson and Hunter combined for 1.5 sacks and four QB hits in the wild-card round, and their ability to pressure Mahomes will be critical.

Key Storylines

• Chiefs' Resiliency: Kansas City has shown incredible grit this season, winning 11 games by eight points or less. They've proven they can win in all phases—offense, defense, and special teams.
• Texans’ Defensive Strength: Houston’s cornerback duo of Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter has been among the league’s best, ranking top-three in completion percentage and passer rating allowed. They’ll look to contain the Chiefs’ passing attack.
• Coaching Chess Match: Texans head coach Demeco Ryans acknowledged the challenge of defending Mahomes, citing his quick release and ability to exploit check-downs. Ryans plans to mix up coverages while staying disciplined under pressure.

What’s at Stake

The Chiefs are chasing history as they aim to become the first team ever to win three straight Super Bowls. Mahomes is also looking to tie Joe Montana for the second-most playoff wins by a quarterback.

For the Texans, this game represents a chance to make history of their own. After five previous losses in the divisional round, they’re seeking their first-ever AFC Championship Game appearance.

Game Outlook

This matchup has all the makings of a close contest. The Texans will try to capitalize on the Chiefs’ tendency to play in one-possession games, while the Chiefs’ experience and ability to adapt in critical moments could prove decisive.

With stars on both sides of the ball and plenty of storylines, this game is a must-watch as the Chiefs and Texans battle for a spot in the AFC Championship.

📺 Kickoff: Saturday, 4:30 PM ET

Global Sports Central 🌐 #GSC360

@ 8ea48526:e6720a43

Technology trends toward openness time and again. This is why I say that Freedom Tech is Final Tech. Ideas want to be free. Many people built brands on TikTok that are now threatened, which is a reminder to also build on open alternatives you control. There are many examples from history.

Shift from Monasteries to Printing Press. During the Middle Ages, monasteries controlled the production and dissemination of written knowledge. The printing press decentralized access to information, enabling mass production of books and changing the course of history.

Transition from Trains to Automobiles. Trains required centralized infrastructure and control, while cars empowered individuals to travel freely. This shift from centralized to decentralized transportation transformed the way people lived, worked, and interacted with each other.

Telegraph and Telephone. The Telegraph was initially a closed system, with message transmission gated by businesses. The Telephone enabled direct, person-to-person communication, decentralizing access to real-time information and revolutionizing the way people connect.

The evolution of the Internet. ARPANET, the early internet, was a closed network. With the development of TCP/IP, the open internet was born, enabling global communication, innovation, and access to information on an unprecedented scale.

Operating Systems. Unix, a proprietary OS, was the early powerhouse and later eclipsed by Linux, an open-source alternative. Today, Linux powers millions of devices, from smartphones to servers, and has become a cornerstone of modern computing. It runs the world.

Computers. Mainframe Computers were massive, centralized systems that only large organizations could afford. The development of Personal Computers democratized access to computing power, enabling individuals to create, innovate, and participate in the digital economy.

Television and Radio, once controlled by a few large broadcasters, have given way to Podcasts, which enable anyone to create and distribute content. This has democratized the media, allowing new voices and perspectives to emerge. (Thank you Aaron for RSS 😢)

The music industry. Vinyl, tape, and CD distribution, once controlled by record labels and physical stores, have given way to open file formats like MP3 and streaming services. Artists can connect directly with fans and music is more widely available than ever before. V4V.

Government, Monarchy to Republic. Monarchies, with their centralized power and hereditary rule, have given way to republics, where power is distributed among the people and their elected representatives, increasing class mobility and participation.

Central Banking System and Bitcoin. The experimental Central Banking System, with its centralized control and intermediaries, is being challenged by a decentralized, open alternative. It is transforming the way we think about money, value, and financial freedom.

Digital payments and Ecash. Systems like PayPal & Venmo (once the innovators themselves) are being challenged by open alternatives, such as Chaumian e-cash systems like Cashu and Fedimint. These systems promise to increase financial privacy and autonomy for day-to-day payments.

Social networking. Proprietary social platforms control the data & access. Nostr is an open protocol for authoring & distributing digital content. In the age of AI, authenticity is paramount. Nostr cryptographically proves who authored content, maximizing freedom & transparency.

AI. AI began as closed systems from large corporations investing heavily in computing and training. The open community is catching up and pushing new boundaries. Open models that run locally or in confidential computing enclaves provide AI that is free, open, and private.

This is the pattern: over time, the processes that were controlled by a few get replaced by processes controlled by everyone. Always be searching out open alternatives for the tech you use, that’s where we eventually end up. I’m bullish on the future of technology and humanity. 🤘

P.S. You can see that many of these examples are themselves becoming compromised over time, looking to be disrupted again by open technology.

@ e373ca41:b82abcc5

It was recently the tenth anniversary of the attack on Charlie Hebdo, France's best-known satirical magazine alongside the “Canard enchaîné”. The attack claimed the lives of 12 people, mainly cartoonists and journalists. Even then, it was a watershed moment, and not just in retrospect. Everyone wanted to show solidarity, everyone wanted to be “Charlie”, the phrase “Je suis Charlie” made the rounds memetically.

Charlie Hebdo was known for making fun of everything, including religions and Islam. “What is satire allowed to do? Everything.” So said Kurt Tucholsky, the famous publicist of the Weimar Republic, and that also applied to Charlie Hebdo. This magazine also dared to print Mohammed cartoons from “Jyllands Posten”. The solidarity of other newspapers with Charlie no longer went that far. They wanted to be Charlie, but rather without risk. The collective sign of solidarity fizzled out as lip service.

I was in Paris at the time and witnessed the mass demonstration live. Bernard Maris, a friend of Michel Houllebecq, also died in the attack. Houllebecq's book “Submission” was published on the same day. Coincidence? History and its synchronicities sometimes take wondrous paths.

On November 13, 2015, there was another attack at the Bataclan and around the Stade de France, among other places. Not long before, I was still living in Rue de la Fontaine au Roi in the 11th arrondissement, not far from Place de la République. My favorite café, the Café du Phare, was riddled with machine gun bullets, as was the pizzeria next door. I often sat in this café, writing books, academic texts and my first columns for the NZZ. At the time, I was teaching public law and fundamental rights at the Sorbonne in Paris, among other things, and dealing with issues relating to freedom of expression and artistic freedom on a daily basis.

I took it for granted that these constitutionally guaranteed values were just as important to the public (and especially other journalists) as their place in the constitutions of the West suggested. I was wrong, which was certainly also due to my legal glasses and “déformation professionelle”. At the time, I read more articles that emphasized respect for religions than the value of freedom of expression or artistic freedom. Looking back today, that was when the slippery slope that has led us into the realms of censorship, deletions, shadowbanning, fact-checkers, etc. began.

Freedom that is not used wears out and eventually disappears. Fighting to get it back is much more difficult than defending it. Back then, I wrote texts for newspapers rather sporadically, basically mainly when a topic was important to me and it remained underexposed.

The following text, which appeared in the NZZ at the time, was one such text.

You can find the German original version here.

---

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---

In the latest issue of “Charlie Hebdo” since the attack in Paris, the editors rub their eyes in amazement. What is wrong with this world? Politicians of all stripes, 50 heads of government and millions of citizens on the streets; Notre-Dame Cathedral is ringing its bells for atheists and the first people are thinking aloud about admitting anarchist cartoonists to the Paris Panthéon, the final resting place of Victor Hugo, Marie Curie and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. You can tell that the editorial team is a little uncomfortable with the collective need to cuddle up.

The worldwide wave of solidarity with “Charlie Hebdo” was overwhelming and important. “I am Charlie” became the collective outcry of the free world. The message is: “If you attack Charlie, you attack me”. What will remain of this when the dust settles? Will the continental plates of our order of freedom have shifted?

A rift trough the free world

Unfortunately, they did it long ago. The attack on “Charlie Hebdo” was an earthquake. But it ultimately only exposed once again what had already been clear and only slightly buried since the dispute over the publication of the Mohammed cartoons in the Danish newspaper “Jyllands-Posten” in 2005: there is a rift running through the free world, and the media landscape as an index of freedoms is showing it.

On the one hand, there are the courageous publications that do not deviate one iota from the Western achievements of freedom of the press, but which ultimately take the rap for it. And then there is the large remainder, for whom freedom seems to be first and foremost the right to remain silent. Magazines like “Charlie Hebdo” are the bad bank of the Western community of values. Charlie & Co. store the toxic papers that nobody wants on their books. The dividend of freedom, on the other hand, is paid out to everyone. If something happens, a declaration of solidarity follows at the minimum price.

Freedom folklore

The Charlie sympathy is to a not inconsiderable extent mere freedom folklore. A masked ball of the enlightened. The smoke from the attacks had barely cleared before the first German-language satirical magazines declared that they would refrain from printing cartoons of Mohammed. The Kalashnikov is the Titanic's iceberg (Note: "Titanic" is the main German satirical paper). American and British newspapers such as the “New York Times” and the “Independent” also waved goodbye and even refused to print the current cover of “Charlie Hebdo”.

This, mind you, in countries where freedom of expression is considered a cultural symbol and freedom as the “right of a soul to breathe”. The soul of freedom now found itself in a vacuum faster than you could shout “Allahu akbar!”. The Turkish newspaper “Cumhuriyet”, on the other hand, dared to do so. Our freedom is being defended in Turkey but no longer in New York or London? A topsy-turvy world.

Some people would like a more harmless satire these days. A satire without exaggeration, overstepping boundaries and disrespect for certain authorities. But the call for moderation means the elimination of its business basis. Satire does not demand approval and consensus. It is not a beauty contest.

When others decide for us

Anyone who refrains from using a caricature simply because it could be provocative, even blasphemous, is already adopting the thought structure and values of those who believe they are in the right when they respond with Kalashnikovs and rolling heads. People are either not proud of the achievement of satire or are not aware of their own rights, and perceive even something that is actually self-evident as an affront. If we ourselves do not know what we should stand for and why, then others have long since decided what we should stand for.

Certainly, no medium is forced to push the boundaries of our legal system on a daily basis. The notorious undercutting of our own standards, on the other hand, will cause them to shrink. Not immediately, but gradually. Until perhaps another standard is accepted at some point. The new censors will then no longer sit in ecclesiastical or secular palaces, as they did in the Middle Ages. But in tent cities in Yemen. Western society is gradually having the rug of its freedom order pulled out from under its feet. And instead of standing together, some people are asking if they can still help roll it up. But of course they still want to be “Charlie”.

Pseudo-security

Self-censorship and anticipatory obedience are a pseudo-safety net. Today it's the Mohammed cartoons. Tomorrow it will be critical reports on Islamism. Anyone who wants to carry out attacks will always find a reason. However, fundamental rights are not a fair-weather crop. Their true existence only becomes apparent when the storm hits. It is cynical to throw up one's hands in the hope that the angel of death will go to the neighboring editorial office.

“Charlie Hebdo” has decided against accepting such external content control. The editorial team also prints a Mohammed cartoon on the cover of the latest issue. Anyone who wonders whether this is wise has missed the point: if it were not done now, it would be the last time this happens in the Western newspaper landscape for a very long time. Those who remain silent agree with the new standard. And all this is happening now, in these hours and days!

It's crazy, but it has to be said: a small anarchic left-wing French newspaper, two-thirds of whose editorial office was bombed out last week, is currently standing almost alone on the front line of the Western world, defending a right it has fought for over 200 years, while machine guns are pointed at it. In the safe hinterland, on the other hand, far away from the impacts, the cardboard comrades fall over in rows at the first bang.

Our freedom is their freedom

At present, it is rightly said that the aim in future will be to win over the peaceful majority of Muslims to our side and not drive them into the hands of the extremists. Yes, many of them will find Muhammad cartoons outrageous or outrageous. But our freedom to think differently is also their freedom to think differently. Our freedom, as unpleasant as it may be to some, also protects moderate Muslims from being forcibly converted at gunpoint by their extremist co-religionists, as is currently happening thousands of times. That makes us allies.

We are currently experiencing a “Sebastian Haffner moment”. The chronicler of the Third Reich describes how he sits in the court library of the Berlin Court of Appeal in 1933 and witnesses the SA taking away all Jewish lawyers. Suddenly, a puffing SA man stands in front of him. “Are you Aryan?” Haffner, who had always rejected this category, answers “Yes” in surprise - and is left alone.

In his notes, he jots down the sentence: “Failed the first test!”

---

Join the marketplace of ideas! We are building a publishing ecosystem on Nostr for citizen-journalism, starting with a client for blogging and newsletter distribution. Sound money and sound information should finally be in the hands of the people, right? Want to learn more about the Pareto Project? Zap me, if you want to contribute (all Zaps go to the project).

Are you a publication and want to be part of it, test us, migrate your content to Nostr? Write to team@pareto.space**

Not yet on Nostr and want the full experience? Easy onboarding via Nosta.me.

@ 3ac03011:41ecd1bb

Some lessons are worth learning the hard way. Here's one of them: don't waste your energy trying to convince someone that a fact is a fact.

If their belief doesn't harm you, let them hold onto it. And if it does, focus on protecting yourself instead of arguing. Life is a far better teacher than any debate—you can't out-argue reality and false beliefs have a way of unraveling themselves.

The beauty of facts lies in the clarity they bring us. They show us how humanity's darkest moments came not purely from malice but from people simply following incentive structures. Understand the incentives and the chaos of the world starts to make sense.

Those who reject facts often feel the world is against them. They take it personally, not realising facts are impersonal—they simply are. When you accept them, you're no longer at odds with reality and peace becomes possible.

So don't spend your time persuading others. Instead, build the life you want. Focus your energy on creating, achieving and living. The truth doesn't need you to defend it; it's always there, waiting to be seen.

In the end, the clarity you gain by focusing on your own path will bring you more freedom and fulfilment than any argument ever could. Spend your time living, not debating.

@ 07f367da:0e76880d

• 2023-10-26 강기자 기사 작성"‘직장 내 괴롭힘’ 호소하며 투신 사망… ‘미등록 장애인’ 김경현"
• 2023-10-27 강기자 기사 작성"좋은친구들 퇴사자 “김경현 유서, 내가 겪은 것과 너무 비슷하다”"
• 2023-11-18 이슬하 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-03-15 하민지 기자 게시물★최초폭로
• 2024-03-16 이슬하 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-03-18 비마이너 비상대책위원회 게시물
• 2024-04-29 비마이너 비상대책위원회 게시물
• 2024-05-03 이슬하 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-05-21 비마이너 비상대책위원회 게시물
• 2024-06-01 이슬하 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-07-31 김혜미 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-08-13 비마이너 비상대책위원회 발표★1차 입장
• 2024-08-23 이슬하 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-08-25 하금철, 갈홍식, 최한별
• 2024-08-25 운영실장 양유진, 취재기자 하민지
• 2024-08-26 비마이너 퇴직기자 6인 입장문
• 2024-08-27 하민지 기자 게시물
• 2024-08-27 비마이너 비상대책위원회 발표★2차 입장
• 2024-10-01 김혜미 퇴직기자 게시물
• 2024-10-22 이슬하 기자 게시물
• 2024-11-06 이슬하 기자 게시물
• 2024-11-28 비마이너 비상대책위원회 발표★최종 입장
• 2024-11-29 박정수 퇴직기자 게시물★
• 2024-11-29 하민지 기자 게시물
• 2025-01-16 하민지 기자 게시물

@ 543d73b5:977c83a9

In the digital world, human beings occupy space with digital representations of their physical-world information. When viewed separately, these digital representations can be readily dismissed as merely random collections of digital assets. However, when examined as a whole, these same representations reveal themselves to be extensions of a person’s digital self-sovereign identity.

Moreover, as these two worlds, the digital and the physical, continue to merge into one space, this digital identity has become more commonly used as a primary means of validation and verification of a person’s digital and physical existence. Therefore, the primary rights of ownership for this digital form of identity must be safeguarded and protected in the same manner, and with the same level of importance, as is typically observed with individual identity in the physical world.

It is for this reason that this Ethos of Digital Self-Sovereign has been drafted. And, it is for this purpose that it is presented to the digital community for their consideration and adoption into their standard governance frameworks.

THE RIGHT TO DIGITAL PRIVACY

PROTECTED PRIVACY = the SECURITY of PROPERTY which affirms our FAITH in our DIGITAL SELF-SOVEREIGNTY.

Digital Privacy means that people are the sole owners of their own digital property and they inherently possess immutable authority over the use of that property. As owners, they have full right of control over the “why”, “when”, “where”, and “how” their digital assets are accessed. Digital Privacy is about an individual’s ability to maintain control of their digital property when interacting with any entity, system, or organization within a digital environment. Therefore, with every and any form of digital interaction, every person should have the expectation of privacy.

THE RIGHT TO DIGITAL INDEPENDENCE

COMPREHENSIVE DECENTRALIZATION = the INDEPENDENCE of CHOICE which affirms our BELIEF in our DIGITAL AUTONOMY.

Digital Independence is the ability for individuals to interact freely with any entity, system, or organization within the digital space. Centralized control of digital interactions is in direct conflict with the idea of digital independence. Within decentralized environments, there is no intermediary entity to serve as a central authority over the authenticity of digital relationships. Therefore, systematic decentralization must be promoted, propagated, and implemented throughout every corner of the digital world to ensure that the right to Digital Independence is fully available to every individual.

THE RIGHT TO DIGITAL TRANSPARENCY

CLEAR GOVERNANCE = the TRANSPARENCY of AGREEMENTS which affirms our TRUST in our DIGITAL RELATIONSHIPS.

Digital Transparency is the application of open, honest, and fair relationships between individuals, entities, systems, and/or organizations within a digital space. One can argue that transparency is required to secure trust between different parties in a digital-based relationship. However, a truly transparent relationship can actually eliminate the need for trust between parties; since each individual is has the ability to confirm the validity of all interactions because all information about the shared relationship is openly available to all parties involved in the relationship.

(First Drafted 11/11/2021)

@ f88e6629:e5254dd5

...which allow online payments to be sent directly from one party to another without going through a financial institution.

• Without sovereign and accessible payments we are loosing censorship resistance
• Without censorship resistance even other core characteristics are in danger - including scarcity and durability.
• This affects every bitcoiner including sworn hodlers and MSTR followers.

| Property | Description | Fulfillment | | --- | --- | --- | | Scarce | Fixed supply forever. Instantly and costlessly verifiable | 🟢  Good, but can be harmed without censorship resistance | | Portable | Effortless to store and move, with negligible costs | 🟠 Onchain transactions can be expensive, other layers require onchain to be sovereign. Easy portability is offered by custodians only. | | Divisible | Infinitely divisible | 🟠 Smaller units than dust are available only for LN users, which most people can’t use in a sovereign way. | | Durable | Exists forever without deterioration | 🟢  Good, but can be harmed without censorship resistance | | Fungible | Every piece is forever the same as every other piece | 🟡 Onchain bitcoin is not fungible. | | Acceptable | Everyone, anywhere, can send and receive | 🟠 Most people are not able to send and receive in a sovereign way. | | Censorship Resistant | You hold it. Nobody can take it or stop you sending it | 🟠 Custodians are honey-pots that can and will be regulated |

➡️ We need accessible, scalable, and sovereign payment methods

@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9

It's Finally here Stackers!

It's Friday!

We're about to kick off our weekends with some feel good tracks.

Let's get the party started. Bring me those Feel Good tracks.

Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.

Let's go!

Madness!!!

https://youtu.be/SOJSM46nWwo?si=5XsJwBaOXvHqewlH

originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/853535

@ d9e9fb27:d5fe5e1a

Every 16th of January, the city of Varese, a small town at the feet of the Prealpine region, stops to participate in one of the most important ceremonies of the city: The Falò of Sant'Antonio. A Falò is the Italian word for bonfire. Imagine a 5-meters tall pyre of wood burning in the center of the city. For sure, an unmissable event!

The pyre is built by the so-called "Monelli della Motta". A Monello in Italian is a child that misbehaves. This nickname come from the fact that in the past, the pyre was created using wood stolen from the city, usually from tools, doors and shutters.

This event takes place at the eve of the day of Sant'Antonio Abate in front of the homonymous church in the area called "La Motta", which stands for small hill, and comes from a several century old tradition. Thousands of people from all over the province come to the city to look at the bonfire created in honor of the Saint.

At 9PM the big event starts. The wood is set on fire!

An important tradition of this celebration is burning small pieces of paper containing wishes. People whish for health, love, friendship and luck. To make wishes come true, people have to give these pieces of paper to a firefighter or a "Monello" whom will launch it into the Falò.

The show goes on for a couple of ours, during which thousands of Varesinians in awe contemplate the raging fire and try to receive some heat to fight the glacial cold of January.

@ bbb5dda0:f09e2747

Holy crap what a week! I can't believe the amount of progress that came out of just these few days. And a special thanks to nostr:npub16ux4qzg4qjue95vr3q327fzata4n594c9kgh4jmeyn80v8k54nhqg6lra7 for making this possible with me! Alright, let's get into it...

GitHub Blossom Upload Action

I started this week working out the GitHub action for blossom uploads, solving some issues with dependencies, which turned out to just be me not bundling my dependencies with the my build output. So anyway I ended up publishing it and sharing it with all of you.

nostr:nevent1qvzqqqqqqypzpwa4mkswz4t8j70s2s6q00wzqv7k7zamxrmj2y4fs88aktcfuf68qy88wumn8ghj7mn0wvhxcmmv9uq3zamnwvaz7tmwdaehgu3wwa5kuef0qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7qpqzskk7na9x9cgnzpvz7xufdn2y8wqxf00rnq7jg75z86lk30l6plspy9e9u

Pipeline runner

The plan

I can't believe all of this happened just this week. I worked out a plan with nostr:npub16ux4qzg4qjue95vr3q327fzata4n594c9kgh4jmeyn80v8k54nhqg6lra7 to first create a DVM that would be able to clone a given ngit(!) repository and just print the contents of any given pipeline .yaml file that resides inside that repository.

The DVM would have the following inputs - git url (or Nostr address) - branch - pipeline (path to yaml)

Proof of Concept

I was able to repurpose a dvm-git-watcher that i'd created earlier to create the DVM to run the pipeline. Created a POC where the CI runner actually takes the pipeline, executes it and gives back a response and decided to put up a little video demo:

https://cdn.satellite.earth/43463990dd11c9506989e5eda915757cf3ec1b32e8d472579cd2ee18d5685f0d.mp4

Some improvements

Wednesday I added a NIP-89 announcement to the DVM where it just advertizes its existence in hopes of some validation that it is real, and that it is actually useful, and it hopes to be used and talk with other npubs to not be lonely...

So then i figured it was time to package it into an easier to distribute package, a Docker container. That would allow me to include the required tools, namely ngit-cli and the 'act' cli (used to run the pipeline).

Troubles 😱

Adding the precompiled version of ngit got me into trouble with this error:

shell Error: Cloning into 'tmp/1ca8af464df5fc648b77db14e0e5e35ff64d6627a690e138e19298dd56573274'... /app/ngit//git-remote-nostr: /usr/local/lib/libc.so.6: version `GLIBC_2.38' not found (required by /app/ngit//git-remote-nostr) /app/ngit//git-remote-nostr: /usr/local/lib/libc.so.6: version `GLIBC_2.39' not found (required by /app/ngit//git-remote-nostr) fatal: remote helper 'nostr' aborted session

I didn't really know how to proceed as it could be a Docker issue, a Deno issue, or an ngit issue.

Luckily nostr:npub16ux4qzg4qjue95vr3q327fzata4n594c9kgh4jmeyn80v8k54nhqg6lra7 knows his shit and saved me here. It turned out to be an issue that had to do with the ngit binary. Because ngit is compiled on a recent ubuntu version, it depended on some packages that the linux version my Docker image was based on did not have. Thus it failed.

Our solution was to compile ngit instead of using the existing binary, which took some trial and error to get working but eventually it did. It slowed down the build process significantly but alas, at least it works now!

Moving on

After ngit worked I added the 'act' runner to the docker image and was able to control the host system's docker so it can run the isolated environments that have the pipelines run inside.

And so I was able to package up the thing, able to run on any machine, which led me to this little demo:

nostr:nevent1qqs9486y7cs6a9h7n4sk7sdv52qvuqyp80rj0eyg6zt7htfyt9wh4wgpp4mhxue69uhkummn9ekx7mqpz3mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfdupzpwa4mkswz4t8j70s2s6q00wzqv7k7zamxrmj2y4fs88aktcfuf68g4v3lk

The only issue I still have is getting the output of the pipeline properly fed back to the user. But that's some magic with log streams that I have zero experience with, so that's a nice challenge for next week! If you or anyone you know is a Stream magician, please let me know!

See you there!

@ eee391ee:8d0b97c2

Amber 3.1.8

• Button to clear cached data in settings
• Fix multiple bunker requests not clearing when accepting or rejecting
• Show relays status in the notification

Download it with zap.store, Obtainium, f-droid or download it directly in the releases page

If you like my work consider making a donation

Verifying the release

In order to verify the release, you'll need to have gpg or gpg2 installed on your system. Once you've obtained a copy (and hopefully verified that as well), you'll first need to import the keys that have signed this release if you haven't done so already:

bash gpg --keyserver hkps://keys.openpgp.org --recv-keys 44F0AAEB77F373747E3D5444885822EED3A26A6D

Once you have his PGP key you can verify the release (assuming manifest-v3.1.8.txt and manifest-v3.1.8.txt.sig are in the current directory) with:

bash gpg --verify manifest-v3.1.8.txt.sig manifest-v3.1.8.txt

You should see the following if the verification was successful:

bash gpg: Signature made Fri 13 Sep 2024 08:06:52 AM -03 gpg: using RSA key 44F0AAEB77F373747E3D5444885822EED3A26A6D gpg: Good signature from "greenart7c3 <greenart7c3@proton.me>"

That will verify the signature on the main manifest page which ensures integrity and authenticity of the binaries you've downloaded locally. Next, depending on your operating system you should then re-calculate the sha256 sum of the binary, and compare that with the following hashes:

bash cat manifest-v3.1.8.txt

One can use the shasum -a 256 <file name here> tool in order to re-compute the sha256 hash of the target binary for your operating system. The produced hash should be compared with the hashes listed above and they should match exactly.

@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9

Hello Stackers!

Welcome on into the ~Music Corner of the Saloon!

A place where we Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.

So stay a while and listen.

🚨Don't forget to check out the pinned items in the territory homepage! You can always find the latest weeklies there!🚨

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originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/853332

@ f57bac88:6045161e

دگرگونی و سعادت در افسانه همای:

• تغییر و تحول: همای سعادت اغلب به عنوان نمادی از تغییر و تحول ناگهانی و مثبت در زندگی افراد تلقی می‌شود. سایه این پرنده بر سر فردی افتادن، نشانه‌ای از دگرگونی سرنوشت و آغاز دوره‌ای جدید و پربرکت است.
• آوردن سعادت: همان‌طور که از نامش پیداست، همای سعادت به عنوان آورنده خوشبختی و کامرانی شناخته می‌شود. سایه این پرنده، نمادی از برکت، فراوانی و رسیدن به آرزوهاست.
• پادشاهی و قدرت: در بسیاری از روایت‌ها، همای سعادت با پادشاهی و قدرت ارتباط مستقیم دارد. سایه این پرنده بر سر کسی افتادن، به معنای رسیدن به مقام و منزلت والا و کسب قدرت است. معانی نمادین همای سعادت:
• امید و آرزو: همای سعادت نماد امید به آینده‌ای بهتر و رسیدن به آرزوهاست.
• تغییر مثبت: این پرنده نشان‌دهنده این است که حتی در سخت‌ترین شرایط نیز امکان تغییر و تحول مثبت وجود دارد.
• قدرت الهی: در برخی روایات، همای سعادت به عنوان فرستاده‌ای از سوی خداوند تلقی می‌شود که برای برکت دادن به انسان‌ها به زمین می‌آید.

در ادبیات فارسی: همای سعادت در ادبیات فارسی جایگاه ویژه‌ای دارد و شاعران بسیاری به توصیف زیبایی و شکوه این پرنده پرداخته‌اند. این پرنده اغلب به عنوان نمادی از عشق، زیبایی و آرزوهای دست‌نیافتنی به کار رفته است. در نتیجه: همای سعادت نه تنها یک پرنده افسانه‌ای، بلکه نمادی از امید، تغییر مثبت و رسیدن به آرزوهاست. این پرنده به ما یادآوری می‌کند که حتی در سخت‌ترین شرایط نیز باید به آینده امیدوار باشیم و برای رسیدن به اهدافمان تلاش کنیم.

منبع عکس ها

eranshahr.com | x@Babakwlp | x@IranianPlateau

@ fbf0e434:e1be6a39

Hackathon 总结

Balancer v3 Hookathon 集合了开发人员以探索 Balancer v3 hooks 框架的功能。此次活动共包含31个项目，122名注册开发者参与，专注于通过 Balancer 的新架构定制自动化做市商（AMM）。开发人员致力于创新池行为、增强流动性管理，并拓展去中心化金融（DeFi）领域内的设计可能性。关键创新包括自定义费用机制和高级流动性管理工具，为生态系统的增长做出贡献。参与者与 Balancer 的核心开发人员互动，增强了协作并激发了实际应用。Hackathon 为具有影响力的项目提供了 $BAL 奖励，使参与者在 DeFi 社区中获得可见性。总体而言，活动强调了创造力和协作，将 hooks 框架整合到功能性解决方案中。

Hackathon 获奖者

经过对45个提交项目的评估，Balancer v3 Hookathon 的获奖者已揭晓。奖项分为顶级奖和其他值得注意的奖项。

Top Prizes Winners

• VolatilityLoyaltyHook: 此项目介绍了一种双重奖励系统，旨在稳定市场波动，同时激励交易忠诚度。它为长期持有代币的用户提供交换费用折扣。
• Prediction Market Hook: 该项目专注于去中心化的预测市场，操作不依赖于中心化控制。它通过交换费用为流动性提供者提供收入，并通过0%套利交换费用减少价格操控。
• MEV Tax Hook: 该项目通过动态费用结构捕获流动资金池的最大可提取价值，考虑事务优先级，以造福供应商和 Balancer 生态系统。

Other Prizes Winners

• Protofire - Dynamic Fees and Reinvesting: 该项目通过动态费用调整稳定流动资金池，并通过投资于借贷市场来实施长期供应商奖励，支持代币交换。
• Volatility Fee Hook: 此项目根据市场波动动态调整池交换费用，使用具有可配置增量和指数费用乘数的模型来增强市场稳定性。

欲了解更多详细见解和技术规范，参会者和感兴趣的个人可以在 DoraHacks 查看所有提交的项目。

关于组织者

Balancer

Balancer 是一个在 DeFi 内致力于推动自动化做市商（AMM）开发的协议。它为开发人员提供了一个无权限的技术框架，并以全面的去中心化交易所（DEX）产品支持流动性提供者。作为 DeFi 领域的知名实体，Balancer 促进在区块链技术中的无缝集成和创新。该组织致力于扩展 DEX 产品，以此使用户能够最大化流动性提供和去中心化交易的效率。欲了解有关 Balancer 的更多信息，请访问其网站和Twitter。

@ fbf0e434:e1be6a39

Hackathon 总结

由Oasis Network主办的 Privacy4Web3 Hackathon: 2nd Edition（第二届Web3隐私黑客松） 吸引了 50 个注册项目和 149 名开发者参与。活动重点是为 Web3 和 AI 提供可定制和可互操作的隐私解决方案。奖金总额为 130,000 美元，开发工作集中在 Oasis 的 Sapphire EVM 和 Runtime Off-chain Logic (ROFL) 框架上。这些技术是参与 Hackathon 的重要组成部分。

主要赞助商包括 PixelRealm 和 Aethir，它们提供去中心化 GPU 基础设施以支持 AI 和游戏的进步。Google Cloud 提供了高达 2,000 美元的云计算服务积分给参与者。此次活动提供了实践经验和交流机会，促进了社区发展和在 Oasis 生态系统中的整合。

这次 Hackathon 突显了 Oasis 作为一个面向保密应用的第一层区块链的潜力，同时也支持 Ocean Protocol 在增强数据隐私和创新方面的更广泛目标。通过鼓励新项目和社区互动，活动支持了 Web3 技术的持续发展。

Hackathon 获奖者

在 Sapphire 和 ROFL 上开发奖获奖者

• 1st Place: SQUIDL - 一个隐私专注的支付平台，利用 Oasis Sapphire 进行安全交易。它通过隐匿地址生成和 ERC-5564 挑战解决方案简化跨链支付，并集成了 Ethereum Name Service。
• 2nd Place: Futures on Chain
• 3rd Place (Tie):
• Priva Health
• CAAI (Copyright Aware AI)
• CompensatePaw3
• PrivateFeedback
• CLPD Stablecoin Private Transactions
• 4th Place: Minesweeper

Ocean Nodes - Tokenized Intelligence 奖获奖者

• 1st Place: DeFlow - 提供拖放界面和自动化任务执行以促进 Ocean Network 中的 AI 模型训练，并使用定制的 Docker 镜像提高效率。
• 2nd Place: confidential-data-exchange - 去中心化平台用于安全的 AI 模型交易，利用端到端加密和 NFT 进行 Ocean Protocol 内资产标记化。
• 3rd Place: CAAI (Copyright Aware AI)

计算赏金 - 由 Aethir 赞助，Hackathon 计算合作伙伴奖获奖者

• 1st Place: Futures on Chain
• 2nd Place: Priva Health
• 3rd Place: CAAI (Copyright Aware AI)

提升 Oasis 驱动的嵌入式钱包奖获奖者

• 1st Place: oasis-btc - 将比特币密钥管理集成到智能合约中，通过 secp256k1 椭圆曲线提高交易安全性。
• 2nd Place: rofl rng recovery - 通过离线计算增强用户恢复，利用 ROFL 在 Apillon 嵌入式钱包中提供随机性和隐私。
• 3rd Place: Social and Email Authentication with Social Recovery - 通过电子邮件和社交媒体验证确保账户管理，使用模块化 Solidity 库。

Oasis Sapphire 上创新的去中心化 AI 应用奖获奖者

• 1st Place: SovereignAISearch-oasis-Protocol - 一个去中心化的 AI 搜索协议，通过基于区块链的隐私和智能合约管理优先用户数据控制。
• 2nd Place: Futures on Chain

在 Sapphire 和 ROFL 上开发的额外奖品获奖者

• 审计积分奖: Priva Health, Futures on Chain, SQUIDL, CompensatePaw3, CLPD Stablecoin Private Transactions

有关这些项目的详细信息，请访问 https://dorahacks.io/hackathon/p4w3/buidl。

关于主办方

Oasis Network

Oasis Network 旨在增强 Web3 生态系统中的隐私，将自己定位为区块链技术的关键角色。该组织以开发隐私保护解决方案而闻名，整合这些功能以满足去中心化应用对数据保密的需求。作为行业的参与者，Oasis Network 通过提供强大的隐私层来加强 Web3 的基础元素。这一承诺与其在全球创造安全和私人数字环境的使命相一致。

@ ed84ce10:cccf4c2a

Hackathon Summary

The Balancer v3 Hookathon brought together developers to explore the capabilities of the Balancer v3 hooks framework. This event hosted 31 projects with participation from 122 registered developers, focusing on the customization of Automated Market Makers (AMMs) through Balancer's new architecture. Developers worked to innovate pool behavior, enhance liquidity management, and expand design possibilities within the decentralized finance (DeFi) space. Key innovations included custom fee mechanisms and advanced liquidity management tools, contributing to the ecosystem's growth. Participants engaged with Balancer’s core developers, which enhanced collaboration and inspired practical applications. The hackathon offered a range of $BAL rewards for impactful projects, providing participants with visibility in the DeFi community. Overall, the event emphasized creativity and collaboration, integrating the hooks framework into functional solutions.

Hackathon Winners

Following the evaluation of 45 submissions, the winners of the Balancer v3 Hookathon were announced. The prizes were divided into top prizes and other notable winners.

Top Prizes Winners

• VolatilityLoyaltyHook: This project introduces a dual-reward system aimed at stabilizing market volatility while incentivizing trading loyalty. It offers swap fee discounts for users retaining tokens long-term.
• Prediction Market Hook: Focused on decentralized prediction markets, this project operates without centralized control. It provides liquidity providers with revenue through swap fees and reduces price manipulation using 0% arbitrage swap fees.
• MEV Tax Hook: This project captures Maximal Extractable Value for liquidity pools through a dynamic fee structure that accounts for transaction priority, benefiting providers and the Balancer ecosystem.

Other Prizes Winners

• Protofire - Dynamic Fees and Reinvesting: This project stabilizes liquidity pools through dynamic fee adjustments and implements long-term provider rewards by investing in lending markets, supporting token swaps.
• Volatility Fee Hook: This initiative dynamically adjusts pool swap fees based on market volatility, using a model with configurable increments and exponential fee multipliers to enhance market stability.

For detailed insights and technical specifications, attendees and interested individuals can view all submitted projects on DoraHacks.

About the Organizer

Balancer

Balancer is a protocol within DeFi focused on advancing Automated Market Maker (AMM) development. It offers a permissionless technology framework tailored for developers and supports liquidity providers with a comprehensive suite of Decentralized Exchange (DEX) products. As a prominent entity in the DeFi space, Balancer enables seamless integration and innovation in blockchain technology. The organization is committed to expanding DEX offerings, thereby empowering users to maximize efficiency in liquidity provision and decentralized trading. Additional information about Balancer can be found on their website and Twitter.

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Overview

Oasis Network's Privacy4Web3 Hackathon: 2nd Edition hosted 50 registered projects (approved) and involved 149 developers. The focus was on customizable and interoperable privacy solutions for Web3 and AI. A $130,000 USD prize pool was offered, with development centered on Oasis' Sapphire EVM and the Runtime Off-chain Logic (ROFL) framework. These technologies were integral for hackathon participation.

Notable sponsors included PixelRealm and Aethir, which provided decentralized GPU infrastructure to support advancements in AI and gaming. Google Cloud collaborated by offering up to $2,000 in credits to participants. The event provided hands-on experience and networking opportunities, promoting community development and integration within Oasis's ecosystem.

The hackathon highlighted Oasis's potential as a layer-one blockchain designed for confidential applications, while also supporting Ocean Protocol's broader goals of enhancing data privacy and innovation. By encouraging new projects and community engagement, the event supported the continued development of Web3 technologies.

Hackathon Winners

Build on Sapphire and ROFL Prize Winners

• 1st Place: SQUIDL - A privacy-focused payment platform utilizing Oasis Sapphire for secure transactions. It simplifies cross-chain payments with stealth address generation and ERC-5564 challenges resolution, integrating Ethereum Name Service.
• 2nd Place: Futures on Chain
• 3rd Place (Tie):
• Priva Health
• CAAI (Copyright Aware AI)
• CompensatePaw3
• PrivateFeedback
• CLPD Stablecoin Private Transactions
• 4th Place: Minesweeper

Ocean Nodes - Tokenized Intelligence Prize Winners

• 1st Place: DeFlow - Facilitates AI model training with a drag-and-drop interface and automated task execution in the Ocean Network, using customized Docker images for efficiency.
• 2nd Place: confidential-data-exchange - Decentralized platform for secure AI model trading, employing end-to-end encryption and NFTs for asset tokenization within the Ocean Protocol.
• 3rd Place: CAAI (Copyright Aware AI)

Compute Bounty - Sponsored by Aethir, Hackathon Compute Partner Prize Winners

• 1st Place: Futures on Chain
• 2nd Place: Priva Health
• 3rd Place: CAAI (Copyright Aware AI)

Enhancing Embedded Wallet Powered by Oasis Prize Winners

• 1st Place: oasis-btc - Integrates Bitcoin key management in smart contracts, enhancing transaction security with the secp256k1 elliptic curve.
• 2nd Place: rofl rng recovery - Enhances user recovery with off-chain computation, employing ROFL for randomness and privacy in Apillon's embedded wallet.
• 3rd Place: Social and Email Authentication with Social Recovery - Secures account management through email and social media verification, using modular Solidity libraries.

Innovative Decentralized AI Applications on Oasis Sapphire Prize Winners

• 1st Place: SovereignAISearch-oasis-Protocol - A decentralized AI search protocol that prioritizes user data control through blockchain-based privacy and smart contract management.
• 2nd Place: Futures on Chain

Build on Sapphire and ROFL - Additional Prizes Winners

• Audit Credits Prize: Priva Health, Futures on Chain, SQUIDL, CompensatePaw3, CLPD Stablecoin Private Transactions

For further details on these projects, visit https://dorahacks.io/hackathon/p4w3/buidl.

About the Organizer

Oasis Network

Oasis Network aims to enhance privacy within the Web3 ecosystem, positioning itself as a key player in blockchain technology. Known for developing privacy-preserving solutions, the organization integrates these capabilities to address the need for data confidentiality in decentralized applications. As a contributor to the industry, Oasis Network seeks to strengthen Web3's foundational elements by providing robust privacy layers. This commitment aligns with their mission to create secure and private digital environments worldwide.

@ 5bdb0e24:0ccbebd7

In the world of networking, two fundamental models serve as the backbone for communication protocols and standards: the OSI model and the TCP/IP model. Both models are quite similar, providing frameworks for how data is transmitted across networks at various stages of the process.

Understanding these models is crucial for anyone working in IT, cybersecurity, or any related tech field. But what exactly are they?

The OSI Model

The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system into seven distinct layers. Each layer is responsible for specific tasks, such as data encapsulation, error detection, and routing. The layers of the OSI model are as follows:

1. Physical Layer: This layer deals with the physical connection between devices, such as cables and network interfaces.

2. Data Link Layer: Responsible for node-to-node communication, this layer ensures data integrity and manages access to the physical medium.

3. Network Layer: The network layer handles routing and forwarding of data packets between different networks.

4. Transport Layer: This layer provides end-to-end communication services for applications, including error detection and flow control.

5. Session Layer: Manages sessions between applications, establishing, maintaining, and terminating connections.

6. Presentation Layer: Responsible for data translation, encryption, and compression to ensure compatibility between different systems.

7. Application Layer: The topmost layer that interacts directly with applications and end-users, providing network services such as email and file transfer.

Now, that's a lot to remember. So, an easy acronym you can use to remember these 7 layers is "Please Do Not Touch Steve's Pet Alligator." It's helped me quite a bit in trying to pinpoint a specific layer.

Also, keep in mind that the layers are typically inverted from what you see above, with Layer 7 being at the top of the stack and Layer 1 being at the bottom.

The TCP/IP Model

On the other hand, the TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) model is a more streamlined approach to networking, consisting of only four layers:

1. Link Layer: Corresponding to the OSI model's data link and physical layers, the link layer deals with the physical connection and data framing.

2. Internet Layer: Similar to the OSI model's network layer, the internet layer focuses on routing packets across different networks.

3. Transport Layer: Combines the functions of the OSI model's transport and session layers, providing reliable data transfer services.

4. Application Layer: Equivalent to the OSI model's top three layers, the application layer in TCP/IP handles network services for applications.

While the OSI model is more detailed and theoretical, the TCP/IP model is practical and widely used in modern networking. It's also a bit easier to remember than the OSI model.

And, similar to the OSI model, the TCP/IP model is typically visualized with Layer 4 at the top of the stack and Layer 1 at the bottom, unlike what you see above.

Conclusion

Both the TCP/IP and OSI models play essential roles in understanding how data is transmitted across networks. By grasping the functions of each layer and their interactions, network professionals can troubleshoot issues, design efficient networks, and ensure seamless communication between devices.

Whether you're a seasoned systems administrator or you're just getting your start in IT, mastering these models is key to navigating the complex world of networking.

@ 19fd5e65:946640b2

Узнал, что, оказывается, есть люди, живущие без фантазии. Это не значит, что у них бедное воображение или что-то в этом роде. Это медицинский термин, который обозначает, что человек просто не может мыслить образами: не может представить в голове картинку, музыку.

При слове стол, например, вспоминает его размеры по ширине и длине, знает его цвет, но не может представить в сознании, как этот стол выглядит. Даже если он стоит давно на кухне.

Удивительное, конечно, дело.

Прочитать об этом можно на Atlantic, на PsyPost и в научном журнале

Афантастики прекрасно воспринимают элементы реальности и не имеют проблем с памятью и языковой обработкой. Мы считаем, что их особенность связана с небольшим дефектом «феноменального сознания». То есть они имеют доступ к информации о формах, цветах и пространственных отношениях, но эта визуальная информация не превращается в зрительный образ. Их мозг медленнее анализирует формы и цвета, кроме того, они менее уверены в точности своих ответов, касающихся визуальной информации.

Источник на русском языке

@ fd78c37f:a0ec0833

In this edition, we invited Evelyn and Gerardo to share their experiences in creating a Bitcoin community, discussing their motivations, challenges, strategies, and goals. Their journey offers valuable lessons on community engagement and the transformative power of Bitcoin.

YakiHonne: Evelyn, Gerardo, We're truly delighted and grateful to have you join us today. Before we dive in, I’d like to share some background on what YakiHonne is. YakiHonne is a decentralized media client built on the Nostr protocol that enables freedom of speech through technology. It empowers creators to create their own voice, assets, and features. It also allows features like smart widgets, verified notes, and focuses on long-form articles. we'll be exploring more about your community. What sparked your interest in Bitcoin, and what motivated you to create a community around it ?

Evelyn：In the beginning, I started learning about Bitcoin in 2019, just a bit at first. When it became legal tender, we realized it was a monumental moment for El Salvador, and we knew we had to get involved in anything related to Bitcoin. Personally, I began watching videos and reading more about Bitcoin to deepen my understanding of its significance for El Salvador adopting it as legal tender. Evelyn：Soon, I recognized the importance of educating more Salvadorans about Bitcoin. This led us to start providing Bitcoin education in classrooms, schools, and various communities across different cities in El Salvador. As we traveled across the country, we noticed that Bitcoin adoption was still limited, with few places accepting it as a means of payment. This observation motivated us to build a community where Bitcoin could be used as a medium of exchange. Our goal was to replicate and expand upon the Bitcoin community that was already taking root in El Salvador.As the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, we understood the necessity of working on increasing its adoption throughout the nation.

YakiHonne: Could you share how your community was established, the strategies you employed to attract members, and the challenges you faced in the process?

Gerardo：We were living in San Salvador, but we didn’t enjoy city life, so we started looking for a place outside the city. We knew we wanted to live in the mountains, and there are a few options here in El Salvador. Eventually, we found ourselves in Berlin, and we really liked it. After spending some time visiting and getting to know the people, we decided this was where we wanted to settle down. Gerardo：Once we made that decision, we knew we wanted to start teaching Bitcoin within the community. We began talking to local entrepreneurs and residents, letting them know about our plan to educate the community about Bitcoin. We explained that it could bring significant opportunities for Berlin and its residents, including increased tourism. Some people were really excited about the idea because there weren’t many places in El Salvador, the “Bitcoin country” that had a circular economy focused on Bitcoin. Most of the activity was concentrated in the city. Gerardo：As people started to hear about our idea, they liked it, and soon we had a team working with us to onboard more businesses. We were fortunate to find the right people, and that’s how it all began. We started by getting about 12 to 15 businesses to accept Bitcoin. I remember creating a social media presence, including a Twitter account, to promote Berlin as a destination where people could spend Bitcoin. Gerardo：Berlin is about two and a half to three hours from the capital, San Salvador, depending on traffic, so it wasn’t easy for people to come initially. But as time went on, more people started visiting. They liked the weather, the friendly community, and the places where they could use Bitcoin. Soon, a few Bitcoin enthusiasts even moved to Berlin. Gerardo：A year and eight months later, we now have a thriving community of over 20 Bitcoin users from around the world living here, along with many locals who have become Bitcoin users thanks to our educational efforts. We’ve established a Bitcoin center, have over 130 merchants accepting Bitcoin, and even non-business residents are using it. It’s been a fantastic journey, and it all started with a desire to educate a few people, which kept growing from there.

YakiHonne: I love how it all started and the fact that you created mechanisms and opportunities for Bitcoiners to actually spend Bitcoin. It's also amazing how this initiative helped Berlin by attracting more prominent investors to settle here.Apart from Berlin's distance from the capital, which made it less accessible and may have deterred some people from coming, were there any other challenges you faced in the process of promoting Bitcoin adoption?

Gerardo：we faced several challenges, such as the local government’s disapproval of our Bitcoin activities, the initial difficulty of introducing Bitcoin into the community, and finding a suitable venue for our educational efforts. These were the primary obstacles we encountered early in the project. Gerardo：The first challenge we faced in the beginning was the lack of Bitcoin usage in the town. While we were teaching people to accept Bitcoin, there weren’t many individuals actually spending it. It was just the two of us at first, taking turns visiting places that accept Bitcoin, trying to make sure we could spend it and show others that it was possible. We were also traveling to San Salvador and inviting people to come to Berlin, but our efforts weren’t very successful initially. Gerardo：Eventually, more people started coming, and that issue was resolved. However, another challenge arose with some local politicians who didn’t approve of what we were doing. They tried to stop our efforts by discouraging people from working with us. As a result, a few locals didn’t trust us at first. Gerardo：For some people, they might think it's a scam. So, the educational aspect was a significant challenge. A few months into the project, we decided to hold community meetings, which was crucial for us because we needed a place to teach and spread knowledge about Bitcoin. However, we didn't have a dedicated venue at the time. Fortunately, we had a few friends, and initially, we held meetings at their homes or garages.

YakiHonne: You mentioned facing trust issues. What principles guide the community, and how did you maintain trust and reliability in your discussions as you built the community?

Evelyn：One of the key points in building trust within the local community is establishing clear trust and transparency. There were many misconceptions about Bitcoin initially. People often associated Bitcoin with politics and politicians, assuming it was a government creation. This misconception was fueled by the distribution of a government-issued Bitcoin wallet tied to citizens’ IDs, which caused confusion due to a lack of public education on Bitcoin. Evelyn：To address this, we made it a priority to remain neutral and uninvolved with the government. We focused on educating people about Bitcoin's origins, its creation by Satoshi Nakamoto, and its fundamental workings, breaking down complex concepts into simple explanations. We also informed the community about various Bitcoin wallets available, emphasizing alternatives to the government-issued wallet, which had issues with trust and identity theft. Evelyn：Engaging with respected elders in Berlin was another crucial strategy. We explained the benefits of Bitcoin adoption for the local economy and how it could improve the quality of life in the community. These respected community members helped us reach others and build credibility. Evelyn：Since May 2023, we have been deeply involved in educational and social projects, demonstrating that Bitcoin can improve not only personal financial situations but also community welfare. Importantly, we never asked for anything in return, showing our genuine intentions. Over time, this consistent engagement helped us gain the community’s trust, and our work in Bitcoin education has grown stronger.

YakiHonne: How do you educate your members and keep them informed about the latest Bitcoin developments?

Evelyn：Beyond simply observing developments in the Bitcoin space, we hold weekly meetings not only within our team but also with the broader community. These gatherings have been invaluable, as we've been fortunate to engage with many knowledgeable individuals who bring both technical expertise and insights into the philosophical aspects of Bitcoin. Through these interactions, we continuously learn from each other. We've also had the privilege of hosting experts who conduct workshops and deliver lectures during our meetings. These sessions help us stay informed about the latest advancements in technology and the evolving landscape of Bitcoin.

YakiHonne: Apart from education and inviting external instructors for weekly classes and meetups, how does your community collaborate with the broader Bitcoin ecosystem? What partnership has been the most impactful so far?

Gerardo：When we arrived here, I remember that many people knew something needed to change in the town’s technology and overall situation. They were unhappy with the status quo, especially with the government. There was already a lot of energy within the population of Berlin; we just needed to harness that energy and get organized. That’s when people started collaborating. Gerardo：In addition to Bitcoin education, we worked on social projects, like painting parks, cleaning the city, and addressing basic issues that the municipality wasn’t tackling. This shift in mentality helped people realize that it’s up to us to take action, not just wait for the government to act. Gerardo：As for Bitcoin adoption, many businesses have greatly benefited from it. They’ve seen an increase in income and are now able to save in new ways. You can even hear personal stories from business owners on how their operations have gradually transformed since they started accepting Bitcoin. This has had a significant impact on the local economy and also on how people view social change within the town.

YakiHonne: Do you have any partnerships with other Bitcoin or Bitcoin-related communities outside of Berlin?

Gerardo：There aren’t many Bitcoin communities outside of Berlin, even though we're considered the Bitcoin country. There's the Los Angeles one, which was the first, then Bitcoin Beach, followed by us, and now a new one is emerging in Santa Ana. I had a conversation yesterday with someone who's helping with that initiative, and we're planning some collaborations with them. They’ll be visiting us here, and we’ll also visit them to collaborate on Bitcoin education. There's also another community in La Pi Raya, a small island, that is working on Bitcoin education as well. Gerardo： There aren't many communities in the area, but we’re always open to working with them. It's really interesting to hear about their experiences and the challenges they face, as we can learn a lot from their insights.

YakiHonne: I expected that, since it was El Salvador, there would be over a thousand Bitcoin communities. Given that it's a country that has embraced Bitcoin so extensively, I thought there would be hundreds of communities.

Gerardo：However, it's been three and a half years since the Bitcoin Law, and adoption has been slow. While the U.S. dollar is still the other currency in use, people continue to trust it despite its devaluation. It's relatively stable, so they don’t yet feel the need to switch to Bitcoin. So, the adoption process is definitely moving slowly.

YakiHonne: Apart from creating Bitcoin-friendly shops and a community where people can buy and trade with BTC, what other steps have been taken to promote Bitcoin adoption in El Salvador? What results have you seen so far in your community?.

Gerardo：Bringing Bitcoin's identity to Berlin has significantly helped the town. It has attracted more Bitcoiners, especially those coming from El Salvador who are interested in Bitcoin adoption. We've started claiming the title of "Bitcoin City of El Salvador," which has also helped. The results are clear: people are seeing their income improve and are learning new things from the Bitcoin community. Slowly but surely, Berlin is adopting Bitcoin, and it’s bringing positive changes to the town.

YakiHonne: What are the community's goals for the next 6-12 months, and how do you see it evolving with Bitcoin's growth？

Gerardo：While many Berliners use Bitcoin for transactions, they tend to store it in custodial wallets. Our goal is to encourage people to own their seed phrases and understand the full Bitcoin philosophy, including the importance of time preference. We aim to teach people not just about Bitcoin payments, but also its broader value this year. Gerardo：we’ll create an independent association to manage donations and oversee community projects. The association will have its own rules, a board consisting of both expats and locals, and will work on improving the town. The Bitcoin education aspect will remain under our care. Our main goals are better education and local involvement in fixing the town's issues.

YakiHonne: You mentioned saving Bitcoin, and it reminded me of a point made in a previous interview with another community. They said the same thing—many people spend Bitcoin, but few actually save it, which is a problem. Saving Bitcoin has many benefits. For example, that community even encourages parents to save Bitcoin for their children, so that by the time they grow up, they'll have something valuable to inherit. I really appreciate your insights today, and I look forward to seeing how these efforts continue to make an impact in the future.

@ bf47c19e:c3d2573b

Originalni tekst na nin.rs

20.09.2023 / Autor: Danica Popović

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Da se preselimo na tržište kriptovaluta? Šalim se, naravno. Mada, pogledajte: da ste 2009. godine „iskopali“ bitkoin u vrednosti od jednog dinara, danas biste u svom bitkoin novčaniku imali - šezdeset hiljada dolara! Prosečna godišnja stopa rasta, dakle - dvesta devet odsto, zarada nevidljiva, a veća od one iz Кrušika i Jovanjice zajedno!

Zar ne biste pomislili - ovde vredi uložiti više od dva dinara, ili pet... ili milijardu? I onda, kako se takva želja zove? Pohlepa, naravno. Zato vas, sve redom, molim: nemojte govoriti da je pohlepa kriva za probleme u Srbiji, ili u svetu. Nije. Pohlepni su i svi ostali, od Adama i Eve do Hilari Кlinton ili Cukerberga, pa šta? Кad postoji sud i kakva-takva demokratija, stvari se nekako dovedu u red. Кad toga nema – kao kod nas, zar je kriva pohlepa što ne rade institucije?

E sad, kod bitkoina postoji veliki izuzetak: on čak podstiče pohlepu. Niko (sem vas) ne zna koliko ste zaradili, pa slobodno možete da utajite porez! Ni američka poreska uprava (IRS) ne može da uđe u trag prometu kriptovaluta, i sama je objavila da je u periodu od 2013. do 2018. godine samo 800 do 900 poreskih obveznika podnelo prijave o zaradi u kriptovaluti. Taj broj je rastao, ali, slabo, kažu: „brojevi su i dalje daleko od onih o broju korisnika, transakcija i vrednosti koju berze objavljuju na godišnjem nivou“.

Кoliko je situacija tu loša, najviše govori upitnik koji je američka poreska uprava zimus poslala na više od 10.000 adresa, obraćajući se onima za koje je smatrala da ima izgleda da nisu prijavili prihod od virtuelne valute. A jedan jedini poreski obveznik, koji je svoju poresku prijavu dopunio sa još 1,6 miliona dolara (stečenih prodajom bitkoina) upravo je bio jedan od primalaca pisma. Evo šta su ga pitali: „Da li ste u bilo kom trenutku tokom 2020. godine dobijali, prodavali, slali, menjali ili na bilo koji drugi način sticali bilo kakav finansijski interes u bilo kojoj virtuelnoj valuti?“

Кrajem decembra prošle godine i kod nas je usvojen Zakon o digitalnoj imovini, koji će se primenjivati od sredine ove godine. Tako će ovde na svaku transakciju kriptovaluta u kojoj se ostvari kapitalna dobit morati da se plati porez od 15 odsto – ne samo na dobit, već i na „kopanje“ bitkoina. Кako će to da izvedu, ne kažu. Ali je skoro sigurno da neće kao Amerikanci, da šalju pisma po kućama. Jer, ovakvo pismo bi kod nas značilo – plašiš mečku rešetom.

Sad da vidimo kolike su zarade – pa da krenemo u akciju. Bitkoin je prošlu godinu započeo sa vrednošću od 6.950,56 dolara, ali je već u martu pao za čitavu trećinu! Ipak, godina je završena sa prosečnim godišnjim rastom od 323 odsto, ili od 507 odsto od martovskog debakla. Pre mesec dana vrednost bitkoina je bila 48.200, a 5. aprila - 58.866,13 dolara!

Ovaj vrtoglavi rast bitkoin duguje Tesli, proizvođaču električnih automobila, koji je objavio da je kupio bitkoine u vrednosti od 1,5 milijardi dolara! I ne samo to: predstavnici Tesle su izjavili da će električne automobile prodavati i za bitkoine. Кako je time umanjen najrizičniji deo posla na kriptovalutama, a to je konverzija u „zemaljsku valutu“ - tražnja i cena bitkoina munjevito su skočile za dvadeset odsto, a zatim nastavile da rastu.

I šta sad? Bitkoin je, dakle, savršeni dvanaestogodišnji špekulativni balon. Da li će potrajati, ako se uz Teslu tržištu bitkoina pridruže i drugi proizvođači? Verovatno hoće, mada - možda i neće. Tržišta kriptovalute daleko su od predvidljivih i samo jedno znamo: kao i svaki špekulativni balon, i ovaj će pući.

Nije bitkoin dobar ni za svet, ni za nas. Za svet je loše, jer je proizvodnja veoma skupa: podaci o indeksu potrošnje električne energije pokazuju da je godišnja potrošnja energije prilikom „rudarenja“ kriptovaluta veća od godišnje potrošnje struje u Argentini ili Norveškoj. Skupo je za planetu, dakle.

Naravno, na tržištu kriptovaluta obavezno se mora imati veliki „apetit za rizik“. I još nešto: da bi posao imao smisla, neophodno je da učesnici budu sposobni da finansijski izdrže gubitak - koliko god on iznosio. A gde ste tu vi? Nigde, naravno.

Ipak je to njihova, a ne naša budućnost.

@ 2355757c:5ad3e04d

Introduction

Blue light from artificial sources is one of the most biologically disruptive toxins that exists in our modern world today. It is pervasive, it is ubiquitous and it is only getting worse with the ever increasing time we spend indoors and in front of screens. The worst part is: it doesnt have to be this way. The EVEN worse part: it is exactly what Big Tech wants.

This newsletter will cover exactly why blue light from screens and our lighting is bad for our health, and what you can do to avoid these biological disruptions.

The TLDR:

• Artificial blue light is not the same as natural blue light.

• Artificial blue light disrupts our circadian rhythm (the most important aspect of our biology) and our sleep.

• A disrupted circadian rhythm has been linked to nearly all chronic diseases.

• Artificial blue light is addictive by design & disrupts our neurotransmitters.

Natural Blue Light vs Artificial Blue Light

Blue light, like all visible light, is a sliver of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum. That means that blue light is an EMF, and artificial blue light is a non-native EMF. That is why I often say non-native EMFs are the most pervasive environmental toxin in modern society. The food is an issue, but the light is what is really f*cked. It is far easier to change your food diet than your light/EMF diet.

Blue light is typically defined as 450-490nm wavelength light, although there is some debate on where that starts and ends. That correlates to a frequency of around 600-660THz and \~2.5eV of photon energy. That means a wavelength of blue light is oscillating at 600-660 Trillion times per second. It also means that the photons in blue light have the ability to excite electrons they come to interact with, with around 2.5eV of energy.

Blue light is not some alien part of the electromagnetic spectrum, as say 5G radio frequencies are, it is actually something we are exposed to every single day in the form of sunlight and have been for the existence of humanity. However, there is a stark difference between the blue light we are exposed to in the form of sunlight and the artifical blue light we are exposed to from our technology screens and lighting:

• Blue light in isolation / missing the rest of the spectrum

• Pulsed LED control

• The wrong context / time of day

• Dull

To understand why blue light from artificial sources is so toxic to our biology, you need to understand first what our biology is programmed to take in as an input signal from full spectrum sunlight. I refer to it as “full spectrum” sunlight here because that is the big takeaway: you are getting exposure to a full spectrum of light. 

Blue light coming from the sun is NEVER present without longer, lower energy wavelengths such as Red + Near-Infrared (NIR). Sunlight is 49%-55% infrared light. NIR (650nm-1200nm) represents 70% of the total solar spectrum from a photochemistry viewpoint when considering photons/second. Compare that to artificial light, which almost always has little to ZERO red/infrared light due to energy efficiency standards. A spectrum plot below highlights this stark difference between sunlight & artificial lighting. We will discuss more about the biological impacts of this in the next section. It is important to note that a large reason the infrared spectrum is NOT present in light is due to “energy efficiency” and is also incandescents have been made illegal. Of course, policies like this are completely ignorant to the health benefits of the infrared spectrum of light and importance for a more fuller spectrum.

All man made modern light is pulsed, whilst in nature it is continuous. Fluorescents and incandescent bulbs, because they are powered via our 50/60Hz electrical grid have a pulse of 50/60Hz (low frequency). LEDs are controlled by a digital electronics control scheme called Pulsed Width Modulation (PWM). PWM lighting control is typically at 500Hz-50kHz (and could be higher). Engineers say that the human eye can’t see “flicker” above 100Hz, which is true from a visual perspective…but our biology knows. This is a large reason why eye strain, headaches, and other symptoms arise from staring at screens for long periods of time. Sunlight is never pulsed, and is only continuous.

Getting back to the spectrum, the real issue with artificial blue light is the incorrect context. Natural sunlight only provides blue light in a full spectrum setting when (obviously) the sun is up. It has a more rich blue spectrum mid day vs first thing in the morning. It also has even higher energy wavelengths such as violet, UVA, and UVB in mid day (UVB latitude/season dependent). Our artificial blue lights come with zero context. They don’t change based on the sun angle or time of day. They do not go away after sunset. They simply are the same pulsed isolated blue light rich lights, all day long. Nature operates on a clock, and our body needs to be in tune with that clock, else we get biological dysfunction.

Indoor and artificial blue light sources are DULL. Not their personalities, but their brightness. If you are outside mid day you are going to be experience 10,000-100,000 LUX of brightness. That is 30-1000X HIGHER than typicaly indoor lighting. Big range because some indoor lighting areas are very, very dull. So now you have an even more alien form of light. Blue light is the main input signal that tells your body it is daytime, and a big component of that is brightness. Brightness = photon density. If you are inside all day you are getting \~100x LESS photon density. Photons carry energy to excite the electrons in your body. We are starving for photon energy.

Artificial Blue Light Disrupts our Circadian Rhythm

Our circadian rhythm (CR), aka our 24hr biological clock, is in my opinion the most important aspect of our biology. Why? Because nearly everything in our body is goverened by time of day and CR. It encompasses our light diet, our food diet, our sleep, hormones, and so much more. Circadian disruption has been linked with nearly all chronic disease and mental health issues.

So what causes our CR to get out of whack and misalign our biological clocks? The number 1 input signal to our circadian biology is light. The other main input signal is simply our sleep/wake cycle. Food input is secondary and our connection to the earth (grounding/earthign) has also been shown as a circadian input signal.

Our sleep/wake cycle should be tied to light, so those two are quite intertwined. But what about light causes circadian disruption? Here is a short list of the big hitters:

• Artificial Light at Night (ALAN)

• Dull/junk light during the day

• Missing sunrise/UVA rise in the morning

Basically: any light that deviates from the natural solar spectrum in your local environment will disrupt your circadian rhthym. The degree of how alien/different the spectrum is will dictate how severe the circadian disruption is.

Artifical light at night is especially bad because blue light is a signal of daytime and suppresses melatonin production. ANY blue light post sunset will cause a circadian disruption to some degree and the magnitude of exposure will determine just how much. This is why blocking blue light specifically at night time is so important.

“Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) can cause circadian disruption…which can result in a variety of pathological diseases, including premature aging”

Really any light post sunset will disrupt circadian biology but blue light is especially bad because it most severely impacts melatonin production. Brightness is another major factor. Wearing dark red blue light blockers will help, but if you are still in an extremely brightly lit room <1 hour before bed time it won’t be ideal for sleep quality.

Exposure to “blue-appearing light within the short-wavelength portion of the spectrum, between 446 and 477 nm, results in melatonin suppression that is more than 3 times more potent than exposure to long-wavelength light above 530 nm.”

Bright and blue is the recipe for maxx melatonin suppression. Bright and any color light will still have a suppressive effect as well. Want your best night sleep ever? Turn the lights OFF and only uses a very dull red light, candle, etc.

Depression, Blue Light & Dopamine

We have a mental health crisis ongoing in modern society. In the US, over 20% of adults suffer from a mental health disorder/illness and even 1/6 children now do as well. In 2000, the percentage of prevalence of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) aka severe depression was 2%, today it is over 8%…a 4x increase. Suicide rates have also been climbing, especially in teenagers in this “smartphone era”. It seems like a strong possibility that our modern technology is the major driver for this mental health epidemic.

I think anyone can agree that our devices, specifically our phones are highly addictive. We think it is just the social media apps penetrating our psychology and dopamine reward systems, but in reality it’s more than that. The hardware also plays a priming role. I am saying that blue lit screens is making you more vulnerable to fall prey to the predatory marketing tactics of short form content on social media apps. You can simply look at toddlers, who are far MORE vulnerable to effects on their developing brains, to know that it is not just the apps or the games, but also the LIGHT…the blue light specifically.

For children, you can easily google or YouTube a video of a toddler throwing a temper tantrum when you take away their iPad. The games or shows they are watching may indeed be “addicting” but I would argue the bright blue dominant screen is the real reason they are addicted.

https://youtu.be/AYZ2zs9Tftc

Blue light induces a dopamine release in our body in short term exposure. Regardless of the science - we can feel it. Some papers are catching up on this, and some are discussing how the blue light photoreceptor AKA melanopsin is directly intertwined with dopaminergic neurons. The initial paper discusses how experiments were performed in a room “illumninated by a red LED to avoid influencing dopamine synthesis”. This means that not all light is stimulating dopamine secretion, and that blue light is especially stimulating in terms of its effect on our brain.

This is the same reason Las Vegas uses bright lights and flasing symbols at the slots to keep players in their seats. The constant dopamine release is addicting, it is like a drug and they end up spending far more money than they would on a slot machine with dull colors. Our phones and tablets are built the same way - perhaps not as directly intention to addict you - but they do nevertheless through the same neural / optic pathways.

When you get all of these “cheap”, short lived dopamine hits you are going to suffer in the long term. When you don’t have that external stimuli - your baseline will feel much lower and that is why excessive tech use can lead to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. This is extremely concerning for our children, who’s mental health is spiraling out of control. Screen time, and blue light, could be a direct cause to this epidemic.

The Solution: Technology that is Designed to Work with Nature

You may read this newsletter and think it is fear mongering, but in truth it is a fair assessment of how man made blue light is affecting our health. Most are not yet on board of the importance of our light environment, so think about this:

You eat 3-4x/day, you drink water maybe 5-10x, you consume light as an input to your biology 24/7/365 (and I am not talking about just visible light). Electromagnetism is fundamentally the most prominent input signal to our biology, and it is the one we have distorted the most with modern technology. Blue light is not bad when it comes from the sun, it is only bad in the wrong context. With the amount of screen time every member of society is racking up each day, to me it is undebatable that artificial blue light + man made EMFs are the two most pervasive environmental toxins and are proliferating the chronic disease epidemic.

Because of this man made electromagnetic radiation, we cannot sleep restoratively, we are anxious + depressed, we are constantly in an inflamed / stressed biological state. The worst part is we are getting more and more addicted to our devices with each passing day.

The solution is simple: fix lighting and spend more time outside. Fix lighting on screens and fix indoor lighting fixtures. Emulate the sun, where you never get blue without the rest of the rainbow, especially red/infrared. We are meant to live in line with nature, and it is only when we deviate that chronic disease becomes prevalent.

This is why I joined the Daylight Computer Company at the beginning of this year. As an EMF/Light educator in regards to health + an Electrical Engineering background - I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard that there was a tech startup trying to become a “healthier Apple” with an innovative reflective screen technology that is blue light free and works with nature instead of against it. This is the sort of innovation we need to end our negative relationship with technology and our disconnection to the real world - the natural world. You can learn more in a recent interview we did with prominent Bitcoiner Marty Bent on TFTC:

https://youtu.be/0y4PIGXpzG4

Nature is the real world, and nature is the world’s first and most decentralized system. A return to reality is needed, and an understanding that real light is what drives our being is needed to change the direction of our future outcomes as a species.

Stay Sovereign,

Tristan

@ bf47c19e:c3d2573b

Originalni tekst na nkatic.wordpress.com i politika.rs.

26.01.2022 / Autor: Nebojša Katić

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Svet je odavno naučio da razorni ekonomski poremećaji ne dolaze iz sfere realne ekonomije već uvek nastaju u kockarnicama koje nazivamo berzama. Umesto obećanog velikog spremanja kojim bi se globalni finansijski sistem trajno stabilizovao, na sceni je suprotan proces. U finansijski kazino ulaze novi krupijei, unose se novi stolovi i aparati, ovoga puta za kockanje kriptovalutama.

Veličina kriptotržišta danas je na nivou od oko tri hiljade milijardi dolara, a broj različitih kriptovaluta se neprekidno povećava i sada ih ima oko šest hiljada. Još gore, ovo tržište više nije izolovano od ostalih segmenata finansijskih tržišta i sve se čvršće integriše u njega, povećavajući nestabilnost sistema. Kao da neko priziva ne samo novu finansijsku krizu, već Armagedon.

Kriptovalute su deo korpusa digitalnih valuta i u tom kriptošarenilu ima svega. Tu su elektronske valute koje centralne banke pripremaju kao zamenu za gotov novac. Tu su i „stabilne“ kriptovalute koje bi trebalo da imaju pokriće u drugim valutama ili berzanskim robama, poput valute koju planira „Meta“ (preimenovani „Fejsbuk“). Konačno, tu su i najluđe, plivajuće kriptovalute bez pokrića od kojih je bitkoin najpoznatija. One “plivaju” i njihova vrednost može tokom samo jedne godine skočiti za na primer 100 procenata ili pasti za 70 procenata. Tema ovog teksta je ta treća grupa kriptovaluta.

Pred ljudskom glupošću i gramzivošću i bogovi su nemoćni. Ekonomska istorija pamti neverovatne iracionalnosti, ludosti, podvale i berzanske histerije. Ali kada se klasične prevare ostave po strani, kod berzanske robe uvek je postojalo racionalno zrno, supstanca i vrednost koja bi kroz berzanski proces dobijala suludu cenu posle koje je dolazio slom.

Danas, s nastajanjem plivajućih kriptovaluta imamo novi fenomen – nečemu što je ništa, sada se može davati basnoslovna vrednost i time se može trgovati. To – ništa, taj digitalni zapis nastao ni iz čega, može se „rudariti“, kupiti na berzi ili dobiti razmenom za neku robu ili uslugu. Rudarenje je kompleksan proces u kome ogroman broj dokonih, inteligentnih ljudi troši svoje vreme i resurse moćnih računara rešavajući matematičke probleme koji se ne mogu rešavati olovkom i na papiru. Kada se zadaci uspešno reše, dobija se bitkoin.

Reč je o procesu besmislenog arčenja ljudskog i računarskog vremena. Računarski „rudnici“ u tom procesu troše i enormne količine električne energije i povremeno, kao nedavno u Irkutsku, rudari mogu izazvati i energetski kolaps. Sve ovo bi mogao biti samo patološki fenomen poput video igrica da je ostao u privatnoj sferi. Ali, kriptovalute su danas deo javne, finansijske sfere. Reč je o kreiranju privatnog novca bez pokrića koji bi, u svetu kojim vladaju red i razum, morao da bude zabranjen.

Nekome se može učiniti da je teza o tome da je bitkoin – ništa, prestroga. Ni moderni, „fiat“ novac nema materijalno pokriće i njegova vrednost počiva pre svega na našoj veri u njega. Ako te vere nema, novac postaje hartija bez vrednosti, kako se to i događalo kroz istoriju. Ali ta vera ipak ima racionalno uporište budući da postoje institucije koje brinu o vrednosti novca – to su države i njihove centralne banke. (Da li to rade dobro ili loše, nebitno je za kontekst ovog teksta.) O vrednosti i stabilnosti kriptovalute ne brine niko i to je prepušteno iracionalnosti tržišta. U slučaju bitkoina se čak ne zna ni ko stoji iza tog projekta. Njegova „vrednost“ počiva na tome što je ukupan broj bitkoina koji se mogu iskopati zauvek fiksiran na 21 milion komada … ako je verovati mojoj baki.

Tehnoentuzijasti ukazuju da je blokčein tehnologija ( blockchain), na kojoj počivaju kriptovalute, „tehnologija slobode“. Ona se tek razvija i traži svoje mesto u digitalnom svetu. Na njoj treba da počiva nova Web 3.0 revolucija u kojoj će veštačka inteligencija i algoritmi potpuno zameniti ljudske i institucionalne posrednike u sajbersferi. To je onaj tip tehnološke revolucije koja se prvo dogodi, a onda joj se traži svrha – u ime progresa, dakako.

U ovom trenutku ona omogućava promet kriptovaluta bez posredstva banaka, direktnim transferom sa „računa“ kupca na „račun“ prodavca. „Računi“ su u sajbersferi i tehnologija je takva da su transferi zaštićeni od zloupotrebe … osim kada baš i nisu i kada hakeri pokradu neku od kriptovaluta. Samo naivni ljudi mogu poverovati da u sajbersferi postoji bilo šta sigurno što se kriptografski može zaštititi.

No vratimo se tezama s početka teksta. Kriptovalute su besmislen, opasan instrument, sem ako niste u poslu šverca droge, oružja, ili ako na primer živite od ubijanja ljudi. Tada je zgodno imati diskretan način da svoje usluge naplatite. I to otvara ključno pitanje – da li to neko stimuliše ludilo kako bi se olakšali poslovi te vrste kada gotov novac bude ukinut? Ili je cilj možda još crnji i ide ka potpunoj destabilizaciji globalnog sistema i stvaranju haosa koji nadilazi i ovaj u kome trenutno živimo? U ovom trenutku, od moćnih ekonomija, samo je Kina zabranila i rudarenje kriptovaluta i njihov promet. Rusija se sprema da uradi to isto. Zašto su velike zapadne države tako pasivne i šta to one znaju što mi ne znamo?

@ 0403c86a:66d3a378

The Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for a tough matchup against the Buffalo Bills in a game that could determine a spot in the AFC Championship Game. However, the team will have to contend with challenging weather conditions at Highmark Stadium.

According to AccuWeather, the forecast for Sunday's game is expected to be 8ºF with a snow probability of 55% and wind gusts of 10 mph. Temperatures are expected to drop to -3ºF at night, making for a cold and potentially snowy game.

Despite the weather conditions, Ravens coach John Harbaugh has ensured the team practiced intelligently this week, considering the frozen fields in Maryland.

The game will feature a highly anticipated matchup between Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, two of the frontrunners for this year's MVP award. Both quarterbacks have had impressive seasons, and it will be interesting to see how they perform in the challenging conditions.

Jackson led all quarterbacks in rushing in the regular season and threw for 4,172 yards (7th overall) and 41 touchdowns (2nd overall). He lost out in total QBR to Allen, who posted a league-best QBR of 77.5. Allen threw for 28 touchdowns.

The Bills have the second-best scoring offense in the regular season, averaging 30.9 PPG, while the Ravens average 30.4 PPG. This should be a closely contested game, and it will be exciting to see which team comes out on top.

Why the Bills will win: Josh Allen's strengths

Josh Allen's exceptional abilities make him a key factor in the Bills' potential victory. He excels in various situations:

• Delivering conversions on fourth-and-short with his legs • Unleashing long, accurate passes like his touchdown throw to Ty Johnson • Limiting mistakes, with the lowest sack rate (2.6%) and second-lowest turnover rate (1.2%) in the regular season

Additionally, Allen benefits from a strong supporting cast, including an offensive line that ranked third in pass block win rate and running backs who generate a high EPA on targets.

Why the Ravens will win: Dominant running attack and improved defense

The Ravens' running attack is a key factor in their potential victory, with Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry forming a formidable duo. Their combination has proven to be challenging for defenses, as seen in the wild-card round against the Steelers.

To beat the Bills, the Ravens will need to perform well on both offense and defense. Fortunately, they have strengthened their defense since moving Kyle Hamilton back to deep safety in Week 11, ranking first in EPA allowed per play, including the postseason.

GSC360 🌐 #NFL

@ d1b118c6:4985b38d

Chef's notes

Let me know how it goes for you https://maria.omg.lol

Details

• ⏲️ Prep time: 5-20 minutes
• 🍳 Cook time: 20-40 minutes
• 🍽️ Servings: As many as you want omg!!!!

Ingredients

• Spaghetti/whatever pasta you want
• Garlic/smashed or diced as much as you want
• Tomatoes/ diced or more liquid state whatever you want
• Scallops/ I use the frozen bagged mini kind and just do a couple handfuls as many as you want
• Butter and/or olive oil but the butter is v good imo but also I used both
• Bacon/ make it extra crispy and then crumble up as much as you want
• Whatever seasonings

Directions

1. Set oven to 400° or so
2. Put all your bacon 🥓 strips onto tin foil lined baking sheet/s and then put the trays in the oven for 15-20 min
3. Boil up your pasta in salty water
4. Pull the bacon out when done
5. In a pan cook up the scallops real quick like 5-10 min idk
6. Sauté the tomatoes and garlic and whatever use whatever seasons and lots of butter
7. Strain the pasta when it’s ready
8. Mix pasta and sautéed sauce
9. Add more crumbled bacon on top #garnish

@ f8f6b6f7:94a101e0

Harley Quinn is a fictional character with a lot of layers. She is a psychological stereotype of a neurotic woman from a broken home who goes insane after falling in love with the Joker.

Harley Quinn and the Joker’s relationship is an example of shared psychosis.

Joker is the dominant character at first and later Harley Quinn becomes equally crazy as Joker (if not crazier) the end result is that they mutually trigger psychotic symptoms in each other.

Harley Quinn is from a broken family, and the Joker is a psychopath.

“You think I’m just a doll. A doll that’s pink and light. A doll you can arrange any way you like. You’re wrong. Very wrong. What you think of me is only a ghost of time. I am dangerous. And I will show you just how dark I can be.”

Originally posted here

@ 71a4b7ff:d009692a

A couple of years ago psychologists at Berkeley have delved into the phenomenon of awe—how it affects us, when it arises, and how it can benefit us. Then I made this short summary, which I translated and edited a little today.

What Characterizes Awe?

Researchers define awe as a distinct and complex emotion encompassing 8–10 positive feelings, such as wonder, admiration, delight, and respect.

I’d like to sprinkle in a touch of discomfort or even threat, but the study notes that this aspect of awe depends on cultural context. For instance, in Japan, awe is more closely tied to experiences of threat than in other countries—think earthquakes, emperors, Hiroshima, Godzilla, and other kaiju.

How does our body respond to awe?

It turns out that awe can significantly improve both physical and mental health—even in “angry, bald apes” like us. The only caveat is not to mix it with fear or threat. Awe associated with those tends to be less beneficial.

The study identifies five key ways in which awe supports well-being:

1. Neurophysiological bonuses:

2. Increased vagal tone.

3. Reduced sympathetic arousal.
4. Release of oxytocin.
5. Decreased systemic inflammation.

6. Lower activity in the brain’s default mode network.

7. Reduced self-focus:\ Over-focusing on oneself contributes to anxiety, depression, body image issues, addiction, aggression, and more. Notably, most people's profile pictures are close-ups of their faces. But among hikers, you’re more likely to see tiny figures dwarfed by vast, beautiful landscapes. If that’s not a literal shift away from self-focus, what is?

8. Prosociality:\ Even a brief moment of awe boosts cooperation, generosity, and altruistic behavior. Nowhere have I seen as much mutual help and free-flowing communication, even among strangers, as I have on hiking trips.

9. Connection to the larger whole:\ Awe fosters integration into strong social networks, a sense of connection to others, and harmony with nature.

10. A sense of meaning, purpose, and significance:\ Awe aids in making sense of life’s events, finding links between the present and the past, and aligning with one’s values, relationships, and life trajectory.

These five aspects form the foundation of both physical and mental health. Open any book, lecture, or treatise on human well-being, and you’ll find them highlighted in some form.

How can you experience awe?

The good news is that opportunities to experience awe are varied and accessible to almost everyone. It’s both surprising and heartening that they don’t revolve around the modern-day idols of success, money, or power. It seems that, at our core, we’re geared toward other goals and often misled by false priorities.

Among the universally effective ways to experience awe, researchers highlight:

• Spiritual and religious practices.
• Shared ceremonies (cinema, music, dance).
• Visual art.
• Psychedelic experiences.
• Acts of courage and kindness (which inspire awe in others).
• And, of course, connection with nature.

When mountains and hiking entered my life, they brought more health, peace, friends, purpose, and meaning than I’d ever expected. This text is a direct result of the awe I feel each time I stand among peaks, cliffs, forests, lakes, and rivers.

It’s not a panacea, but in a time when we’re drowning in useless information, political madness, urban filth, and noise, we desperately need a breath of fresh air.

Let’s embrace awe!

@ a853296a:209e695f

🚀🤠⚡ The Fastest Podcast Search in the West! ⚡🤠

PullThatUpJamie v0.1 Release

👋 Hey stackers! I’m excited to announce a major new feature for Pull That Up Jamie: Podcast Search (Beta)—the fastest way to find high-signal moments in your favorite shows!

You can try it out now at: https://pullthatupjamie.ai/?searchMode=podcast-search

• 🚀 Podcast Search (Beta) is live at https://pullthatupjamie.ai/?searchMode=podcast-search.
• 🎙️ Search through 100k+ podcast clips with lightning-fast vector search.
• ✨ Features include:
• Share Button: Get links to exact timestamps for moments you searched.
• Listen Button: Jump straight into episodes without hassle.
• Filter by Feed: Focus your search on specific podcasts.
• 🎧 Highlights:
• High-signal technical content from Bitcoin Optech Podcast 📡.
• In-depth macro news from Green Candle Investments Podcast 💡.
• On-the-ground Bitcoin startup coverage from ThrillerX 📰.
• 🙌 More pods coming soon—let us know which ones you want added!

We’ve used state-of-the-art tools to make 100k+ podcast clips searchable, giving you the power to pinpoint the insights and commentary you need in seconds.

🎙️ Current Podcast Lineup (As of 1/16/25)

• 🎙️ Robin Seyr – Interviews with Bitcoiners worldwide.
• 💡 Green Candle Investments Podcast – Macro news and updates on Bitcoin and investing.
• 🥩 The Meat Mafia Podcast – Deep dives into health, wealth, and meaningful living.
• 📰 Thriller "A Bitcoin Zine" – On-the-ground Bitcoin startup coverage and local Austin Bitcoin news.
• 🎭 The Joe Rogan Experience – Conversations with fascinating guests from every walk of life.
• 🚲 Convos On The Pedicab – Polarizing topics discussed in Austin, TX.
• 🧠 The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett – Insights from the world’s top thinkers and leaders.
• ❓ The "What is Money?" Show – Exploring the philosophical rabbit hole of money.
• 📖 Bitcoin Audible – Bitcoin knowledge made accessible, one read at a time.
• 📚 The Bitcoin Standard Podcast – Discussions on Austrian economics and Bitcoin analysis.
• 🌀 The Bitcoin Matrix – Exploring the future of money and its broader implications.
• 🌎 The Juan Galt Show – Libertarian views and Bitcoin from a Latin perspective.
• 🐇 Rabbit Hole Recap – Weekly updates on Bitcoin news and developments.
• 🐴 TFTC: A Bitcoin Podcast – Straight talk about Bitcoin from Austin, TX.
• 🔥 THE Bitcoin Podcast – A no-nonsense take on Bitcoin’s evolution and signal.
• 📡 Bitcoin Optech Podcast – High-signal technical content about Bitcoin and Lightning Network.
• ⚡ Simply Bitcoin – Daily updates on the Bitcoin revolution.

---

🛠️ Features to Check Out

• Share Button: Get a link to the exact moment you searched for, complete with timestamps.
• Listen Button: Dive right into the content without leaving your search results.
• Filter by Feed: Refine your search results by podcast feed to focus on the shows you care about most.

---

Pull That Up Jamie Highlights

@Ge and @Car commenting on @DarthCoin 's incredible origin story (deeplink)

Learning about Superscaler on Bitcoin Optech deeplink

@Greencandleit interviewing American HODL on why MSTR is going to moon

Mel Gibson discussing his brain scans on JRE

🙌 We Want Your Feedback!

1. Have a podcast you want us to add? Let us know!
2. Stacker News Live pods are searchable going back to July on the ThrillerX feed.
3. Optech: Search high-signal technical content on Bitcoin development and Lightning tech.
4. Green Candle: Stay updated with great macro news and Bitcoin analysis.
5. ThrillerX: Get on-the-ground coverage of the Bitcoin startup scene.

---

⚡ Try out Podcast Search now and let us know what you think: https://pullthatupjamie.ai/?searchMode=podcast-search

Together, let’s make Bitcoin and podcast search more accessible, private, and powerful! 🚀

originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/852635

@ f1989a96:bcaaf2c1

Good morning, readers!

In Burma, the military junta introduced a far-reaching cybersecurity law that criminalizes privacy tools like VPNs and mandates online platforms to store and share user data with state officials. This move intensifies state repression of civil society, leaving activists and citizens more vulnerable to surveillance. \ \ Meanwhile, in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, ostensibly intended to alleviate financial struggles, have backfired. Soaring inflation has plunged millions into a worsening food crisis, leaving families unable to put food on the table, as the regime continues to isolate the population from seeking a way out in the form of Bitcoin or dollars.

In open-source software news, Citadel Tech released the beta version of its Coinswap protocol. This privacy-enhancing Bitcoin tool, while still in development, could protect the financial activity of human rights defenders, journalists, and dissidents from the watchful eyes of authoritarian rulers. We also feature Nstart, a new tool that guides users through setting up a Nostr account for the first time. This may prove a valuable tool for activists and journalists operating in authoritarian environments, offering simplified access to uncensorable communications.

Finally, we conclude with the first three chapters of Evan Mawarire’s upcoming memoir, in which the Zimbabwean pastor turned activist recounts his powerful journey of inspiring a peaceful uprising against brutal dictator Robert Mugabe. His story is one of courage, resilience, and the enduring struggle for justice over hyperinflation and tyranny.

Now, let’s dive right in!

Subscribe Here

GLOBAL NEWS

Burma | Military Junta Enacts Sweeping Cybersecurity Law

Burma’s military junta is notorious for repressing pro-democracy activists, freezing their bank accounts, and surveilling their financial activity. Now, it is expanding control over online spaces with a sweeping new cybersecurity law. The law requires digital platform service providers to store user data for three years and hand it over to state officials upon request. Non-compliant providers face fines, blocks, or shutdowns if they fail to remove content or limit the flow of so-called “disinformation.” The law also targets Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), crucial for Internet access and privacy. Those caught using VPNs face up to six months in prison and fines of up to 10 million kyats ($4,760). The criminalization of privacy tools and expansion of state surveillance leave the public censored and incapable of organizing against authoritarian rule.

Nigeria | Inflation Continues as State Closes Ways Out

President Bola Tinubu’s economic “reforms” — removing fuel subsidies, expanding the money supply, and devaluing the naira — have driven food inflation beyond 40%. In a country where the monthly minimum wage stands at just 70,000 naira ($45), this means two out of every three Nigerian households are struggling with hunger. In a recent Forbes article, Nigerian CEO of Recursive Capital, Abubakar Nur Khalil, observed: “As the Naira continues to face further devaluations and slips against the US dollar, it has become almost second nature for those in Nigeria to seek out viable alternatives in the form of bitcoin and USDT.” Individuals laboring under this regime often do seek a way out in the form of Bitcoin or stablecoins, but the government continues to try and restrict that activity, trying instead to trap citizens inside the sinking and surveilled naira.

Kazakhstan | Shuts Down Dozens of Digital Asset Exchanges

In 2024, the Kazakhstani regime shut down 36 digital asset exchanges with a combined turnover of 60 billion Kazakhstani tenge ($112 million). Authorities also confiscated 2.5 billion tenge ($4.8 million) in assets. The regime says it will continue to crack down on digital assets, but the reality is these kinds of exchanges are some of the only ways for people inside a dictatorship to obtain access to open money like Bitcoin. At the same time, the regime is promoting its central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital tenge, which it developed in collaboration with Mastercard and Visa. While presented as a modern and convenient financial tool, the CBDC risks becoming a means for consolidating state control over citizens’ economic activities and leaving few avenues for preserving financial independence.

Belarus | Opposition Leader Condemns Upcoming Election as a Sham

At the end of January, Belarusians will head to the polls for a presidential election widely regarded as a sham. This election is the first since Alexander Lukashenko’s fraudulent reelection in 2020, which triggered mass protests and saw Bitcoin play a role in supporting pro-democracy movements. The upcoming election is expected to solidify Lukashenko’s grip on power, extending his rule beyond three decades and securing a seventh term. Under Lukashenko’s regime, thousands of dissenters have been imprisoned, silenced, or financially repressed for challenging state objectives and narratives. Opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya condemned the election, saying, “It is impossible to hold fair elections in a country where all the media are liquidated, all the parties are liquidated, and political leaders are in prison or abroad.”

Zimbabwe | Citizens Brace for More Currency Volatility

Zimbabweans are facing growing financial insecurity as the “ZiG” currency weakens further following a regime-imposed 43% devaluation in September. The sharp decline is eroding purchasing power, fanning inflation, and disrupting economic activity as the dictatorship siphons as much value as it can for its own uses, away from helping the people. “To plan using the local currency is to plan to fail,” says Christopher Mugaga, CEO of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce. These currency woes are compounded by drought-driven 18-hour power outages, placing immense strain on households and businesses alike. As profits dwindle, dissenting bank accounts are frozen, and disposable incomes vanish, many turn to US dollars and Bitcoin as lifelines to escape the chaos of an increasingly unstable ZiG economy.

BITCOIN NEWS

Coinswap | Releases Beta of Coinswap Protocol

Citadel Tech, an open-source Bitcoin software collective, announced the first public beta release of Coinswap, introducing a highly anticipated feature that enhances Bitcoin’s privacy and scalability. Coinswap allows users to swap their Bitcoin with other users in a way that breaks the link between transactions on the blockchain. Though still in its beta phase, this protocol holds potential for activists, journalists, and others living under authoritarian regimes, where financial surveillance is exploited to suppress dissent. Notably, HRF’s first-ever grant from its Bitcoin Development Fund was deployed to support Coinswap, so it is good to see progress on this front.

Nstart | Simplified Access to Nostr Protocol

Nstart is a new tool that simplifies onboarding to Nostr, a decentralized and censorship-resistant social network protocol. It guides first-time users through creating an account and securely backing up their private key (the password to their account). Additionally, users can set up a multi-signer bunker, which splits their private key into multiple pieces stored with trusted signers. This feature enhances security by protecting users’ identities even if one piece is compromised. These capabilities make Nstart an invaluable tool for activists and organizations operating under authoritarian environments, offering straightforward access to decentralized and uncensorable communications. To explore Nostr, start here: https://start.njump.me.

Blitz Wallet | Implements On-chain Payments and Manual Channel Rebalancing

Blitz, an open-source and self-custodial Bitcoin, Lightning, and Liquid wallet, introduced new features enhancing interoperability, privacy, and liquidity management. Users can now send regular payments from their Lightning or Liquid balances, giving them more transaction options. Blitz also lets users manually rebalance their payment channels, offering more control compared to automatic rebalancing. To improve privacy, the wallet will also rotate Liquid account addresses weekly and contact addresses every month, reducing the chances of being tracked.

Nunchuck | Launches Taproot Multisig Beta

Nunchuk, a self-custodial Bitcoin wallet, introduced a beta version of Taproot multisignature in its mobile wallet. Multisignature wallets require more than one private key to make transactions, adding an extra layer of security. With Taproot multisignature, Nunchuk’s wallet improves privacy and lowers fees by making these transactions look identical to regular transactions on the blockchain. This custody solution offers a secure and private way to manage Bitcoin, which is helpful for those in countries with dictators practicing strict financial surveillance or where funds are at risk of confiscation.

Wasabi Wallet | Integrates Send to Silent Payment Addresses

Wasabi Wallet, a privacy-focused, open-source Bitcoin wallet, introduced support for sending to Silent Payment addresses. Silent Payments enables transaction senders to generate unique addresses derived from a receiver’s static public key. This advancement is particularly critical for activists and dissidents operating in hostile political environments, where financial transparency can expose them to severe risks. By integrating Silent Payments, Wasabi Wallet empowers users with permissionless and uncensorable money, improving financial privacy for all parties and protecting them from oppressive surveillance.

Bitcoin Student Network | Launches Layer Zero

The Bitcoin Students Network, an educational hub for students interested in Bitcoin, launched Layer Zero, a program designed to empower youth worldwide, strengthen Bitcoin’s social layer, and promote its role in advancing financial freedom. Running for two and a half months, Layer Zero offers participants technical training and hands-on experience in community building and peer collaboration. The program also connects students with seasoned entrepreneurs and developers, fostering mentorship and real-world insights. Layer Zero could be a powerful support group for youth living under dictatorships and navigating financial repression. Students from anywhere have until Feb. 15 to apply to the program.

RECOMMENDED CONTENT

“Crazy Epic Courage” by Evan Mawarire

In this soon-to-be-released memoir, “Crazy Epic Courage,” Zimbabwean pastor and activist Evan Mawarire recounts the remarkable story of how he inspired a nation to stand up against dictator Robert Mugabe. What began as a simple viral video grew into the “ThisFlag” citizen movement, a powerful call for justice that challenged decades of brutal dictatorship and hyperinflation. Mawarire’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination, undertaken at great personal risk. For now, Mawarire is offering an exclusive preview of the first three chapters, where readers will begin to discover how he found his voice, sparked a movement, and forever changed Zimbabwe’s struggle for freedom.

If this article was forwarded to you and you enjoyed reading it, please consider subscribing to the Financial Freedom Report here.

Support the newsletter by donating bitcoin to HRF’s Financial Freedom program via BTCPay.\ Want to contribute to the newsletter? Submit tips, stories, news, and ideas by emailing us at ffreport @ hrf.org

The Bitcoin Development Fund (BDF) is accepting grant proposals on an ongoing basis. The Bitcoin Development Fund is looking to support Bitcoin developers, community builders, and educators. Submit proposals here.

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@ 6389be64:ef439d32

Black Locust can grow up to 170 ft tall

Grows 3-4 ft. per year

Native to North America

Cold hardy in zones 3 to 8

Firewood

• BLT wood, on a pound for pound basis is roughly half that of Anthracite Coal
• Since its growth is fast, firewood can be plentiful

Timber

• Rot resistant due to a naturally produced robinin in the wood
  • 100 year life span in full soil contact! (better than cedar performance)
  • Fence posts
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor decking
• Sustainable due to its fast growth and spread
  • Can be coppiced (cut to the ground)
  • Can be pollarded (cut above ground)
• Its dense wood makes durable tool handles, boxes (tool), and furniture
  • The wood is tougher than hickory, which is tougher than hard maple, which is tougher than oak.
  • A very low rate of expansion and contraction
  • Hardwood flooring
  • The highest tensile beam strength of any American tree
• The wood is beautiful

Legume

• Nitrogen fixer
  • Fixes the same amount of nitrogen per acre as is needed for 200-bushel/acre corn
  • Black walnuts inter-planted with locust as “nurse” trees were shown to rapidly increase their growth [[Clark, Paul M., and Robert D. Williams. (1978) Black walnut growth increased when interplanted with nitrogen-fixing shrubs and trees. Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of Science, vol. 88, pp. 88-91.]]

Bees

• The edible flower clusters are also a top food source for honey bees

Shade Provider

• Its light, airy overstory provides dappled shade
  • Planted on the west side of a garden it provides relief during the hottest part of the day
  • (nitrogen provider)
  • Planted on the west side of a house, its quick growth soon shades that side from the sun

Wind-break

• Fast growth plus it's feathery foliage reduces wind for animals, crops, and shelters

Fodder

• Over 20% crude protein
• 4.1 kcal/g of energy
• Baertsche, S.R, M.T. Yokoyama, and J.W. Hanover (1986) Short rotation, hardwood tree biomass as potential ruminant feed-chemical composition, nylon bag ruminal degradation and ensilement of selected species. J. Animal Sci. 63 2028-2043

@ 0dd4b762:3b75a30d

The bane of our day and age is a subtle but very dangerous disease. It is rooted in ignorance and overestimation of one's own abilities. Indefinitely more lethal than covid1984 and even harder to trace.\ It is the epidemic of mid-curve-intelligence and average competence which has infected the most important roles of society.\ We've come to a system that forgot to select on merit and is willingly dancing towards it's own downfall to the gospel of DEI.\ The only antidote to this plague which also critically unveils it is sound and incorruptible money.

Sixteen years of melting faces.

\ While generational wealth is being accumulated left and right the mid-curve NPCs still pat themselves on the back for not participating in a "highly unstable and fraudulent ponzi-scheme".\ This is not at all a new phenomenon and its is perfectly normal for the general population to seek comfort in conformity instead of opening their eyes in search of the truth.

Another great case study for this dynamic was the plandemic of the early 2020s when, neighbours, coworkers and friends slowly but surely morphed into clones of the talking heads of your favourite news station. \ No matter the staggering nature of claims about masking, social-distancing and vaccine-mandates, many people wholeheartedly swallowed the propaganda in fear of becoming the only few nails that are still sticking out. The terror of the hammer was very apparent in that situation and gave us a good idea where the train might be going in the coming years..

Introducing bitcoin to the suits and the corporate balance sheet

\ Fast forward to the fun of January 2025 and number go up technology is being embraced by the president elect and his entourage, proposing mind bending ideas such as a bitcoin-strategic reserve. \ Not only the political caste started licking their fingers in anticipation of life-changing gains but the financial-industrial-complex also known as blackrock et al. jumped aboard with the introduction of the bitcoin ETFs exactly one year ago.\ Then there is MicroStrategy who are close to calling 500k bitcoin their own, not showing any signs of exhaustion stockpiling the most scarce money there ever was.

All these cases suggest bitcoin has dipped it's toe into the muddy waters of normie-mainstream-consensus, right?\ Hyperbitcoinisation is upon us one might think, it is just around the corner only a few blocks away, right?\ There ain't no way in hell people are not getting it at this point, right?\ \ I hate to break it to you but most of the managerial clss are still asleep at the wheel. Apperantly more so than ever.\ \ Especially the dismissal of the shareholder proposals for Microsoft and Amazon adding bitcoin to their corporate balance sheets unveiled the root problems which stem from the c-suits of the highest floors of corporate America.\ \ The all so mighty people in the drivers seat of these gigantic corporations miserably failed the intelligence-test bitcoin presented to them. Unmasking a very uncomfortable truth: The higher up executives today are mostly made of mid-wit-normies who are not willing to innovate and step outside of the warmth of DEI nonsense.\ They literally did the meme.

It is a culture of mediocrisy that is actively being selected for in the higher up's offices.\ The new generation of managers and problem solvers nowadays doesn't consist of the smartest people anymore but got displaced by the folks whose main strength it is to jump trough arbitrary hoops.

stayhumblestacksats

@ ed84ce10:cccf4c2a

Hackathon Summary

The Aptos Code Collision Hackathon concluded with notable participation, featuring 658 registered projects and 2,658 developers globally. Conducted in a hybrid format, the hackathon aimed to advance blockchain innovation through workshops and bootcamps focused on Web3 developments on the Aptos platform.

Offering over $500,000 in prizes, the event attracted diverse participants eager to create meaningful applications. Judging was conducted by industry experts, including Mo Shaikh and Avery Ching from Aptos Labs, alongside other notable blockchain and investment firm leaders.

The hackathon highlighted Aptos technologies such as Keyless user authentication and on-chain randomness, which support developers in creating secure and efficient applications. Resources and guidance were provided through a comprehensive participants' handbook, enhancing learning and development for both novice and advanced users. The event showcased significant participation and promising innovations aimed at enhancing the Aptos blockchain ecosystem.

Hackathon Winners

DeFi / RWA Prize Winners

• Panana Predictions: A decentralized platform for event predictions using smart contracts on Aptos, offering transparent transactions and community-governed markets.
• Sentra Restaking Protocol: Strengthens Aptos security via a restaking layer, providing pooled security and customizable slashing.
• Legato: A DeFi market platform utilizing AI for BTC price predictions and smart contracts for liquidity pool management.
• eVault: Combines DeFi and TradFi to offer financial services to underserved communities on Aptos.
• MeowFi: Uses NFTs as collateral for loans, enabling transparent lending on Aptos.

Gaming / NFTs Prize Winners

• Jeton: A decentralized poker platform on Aptos using zk-SNARKs for fair play without central trust.
• On-Chain Treasure Hunt Multiplayer!: An entirely on-chain game utilizing smart contracts for transparent mechanics and rewards.
• Forged Realms - IP Incubation with Games: Supports gaming IP incubation through a tokenized, community-driven approach.
• Aptos Legacy: A 3D RPG game on Aptos enhancing player ownership with tokenized assets.
• appToss Friends: Infrastructure for on-chain casinos, utilizing liquidity pools and friend registries on Aptos.

AI / DePIN Prize Winners

• ChatEDU: AI-powered educational system incentivizing content sharing with blockchain-based credits on Aptos.
• Unity Network: Facilitates data monetization through AI models with a federated learning protocol.
• ProxiRun: A decentralized compute marketplace for AI tasks, managed through smart contracts on Aptos.
• FLock Move GPT: Trains large language models (LLMs) on Aptos coding standards using advanced tuning and classification methods.
• Antikythera: An AI agent that enhances Aptos interactions by executing transactions and identifying real-time opportunities.

Social Prize Winners

• Cook App: A Telegram-based app curating crypto news via a blockchain-backed swipe interface.
• BiUwU: Livestream platform featuring AI-driven influencers and interactive blockchain-backed engagement.
• FundMate: Platform for social messaging and crypto transactions with decentralized payment management.
• Enthro: Enhances video content creation leveraging blockchain for market growth opportunities.
• StreamAd: Twitter-focused platform for automating campaign management and rewards distribution through smart contracts.

The Unexpected Prize Winners

• ActionX: Simplifies blockchain interactions by converting processes into actionable links.
• Compensate: Innovates payroll management using secure, transparent salary transactions with zero-knowledge proofs.
• Khizab: Offers reactive blockchain capabilities through modular, type-safe tools for application development.
• Aptos Extension: A development tool that enhances productivity and collaboration within the Aptos ecosystem.
• Aptotic: Industrial Robotic Automation on Aptos 🤖: Provides MaaS for industrial automation, integrating blockchain for secure operations.

UI Challenge Prize Winners

• PlayStop: A social minigame platform merging digital asset ownership with real-time competition on Aptos.
• EdenX: Web3 learning platform featuring a Telegram bot for a gamified learning-to-earn experience.
• Vortex: GameFi platform for player-to-player games with secure liquidity management on Aptos.

Best Public Goods Prize Winners

• Scaffold Move: An open-source toolkit for developing dApps on Aptos, including deployment scripts and module hot reloads.
• build 3 (fka Aptos Bounty App): A decentralized labor market that supports task fulfillment with an analytics dashboard.
• Aptos Extension

Aptos Indexer Challenge with Nodit Prize Winners

• Panana Predictions
• Wavefy Network - Decentralized Network for Generative AI Inference: Addresses AI memory issues using a P2P network for distributed model inference.
• Compensate

Foresight's Choice: Consumer Applications Bounty Prize Winners

• BiUwU
• Cook App
• eVault
• Antikythera
• ChatEDU

Mirana's Bounty Prize Winners

• Sentra Restaking Protocol
• BiUwU
• FLock Move GPT

MEXC Venture's Choice Prize Winners

• AGDEX: A decentralized perpetual exchange for leveraged trading, featuring benefits like AGLP tokens.
• EdenX
• Panana Predictions
• 紅包拿來: Integrates traditional red envelope culture with blockchain for secure digital asset sharing.
• Inbox-to-Earn using Telegram + Mizu: Monetizes Telegram inbox through Aptos token payments for prioritized messages.

Mizu Wallet's Telegram Integration Challenge Prize Winners

• AGDEX
• Panana Predictions
• Apt Date: A blockchain-based dating platform ensuring secure interactions with on-chain randomness for user matching.

For comprehensive details on all projects, visit https://dorahacks.io/hackathon/code-collision/buidl.

About the Organizer

Aptos Foundation

Aptos Foundation is prominent in blockchain technology, offering a Layer 1 blockchain utilizing the Move programming language to enhance scalability. Achieving up to 30,000 transactions per second and processing 2 billion transactions daily, the foundation emphasizes transaction efficiency and security. Dedicated to continuous innovation, its mission focuses on evolving blockchain infrastructure with cost-effective and robust solutions. Aptos Foundation remains actively engaged in technological development, fostering a dynamic and secure digital ecosystem.

@ ed84ce10:cccf4c2a

Hackathon Summary

The Hackmos 2024 event successfully concluded in Dubai, held alongside Cosmoverse 2024. It featured 53 registered projects and 101 participating developers. The hackathon provided a platform for both student and non-student teams, each allocated specific time slots for presentations, assessed by judging panels dedicated to various track categories. This event highlighted innovation within the Cosmos ecosystem, fostering networking among developers and blockchain enthusiasts.

Participants were encouraged to undertake projects that demonstrated technological innovation and practical functionality. The event concluded with presentations evaluated on criteria such as technology innovation, functionality, usability, and security. By engaging with the wider crypto community, the hackathon showcased promising projects with potential for significant community impact and adoption.

Set against Dubai's cultural backdrop, participants also had the opportunity to explore the locale. The hackathon attendees received non-transferable entry to the Cosmoverse conference, a forum for developments across the Cosmos ecosystem. The event fostered collaboration and competition, aiming to drive growth and exploration in blockchain project development.

Hackathon Winners

Interchain Prize Winners

• Wasm ICQ Datahub: Facilitates cross-chain data exchange without requiring architectural changes, using smart contracts on the Neutron blockchain. It is particularly suitable for financial protocols and analytics.
• ZkResolution: Enhances DNS privacy through zero-knowledge proofs, providing secure lookups and ensuring interoperability between EVM and Cosmos ecosystems.
• FractionXChange: Enables the fractionalization and rental of NFTs, allowing divisible tokens for shared asset access while maintaining asset exclusivity.
• Cosmic Quest: Gamifies blockchain education with role-playing quests, integrating real interactions and on-chain credentials.
• SupportMEow: Facilitates cat shelter donations through blockchain, using AI and IBC for image verification and blockchain inscription.
• NAMI <> Mars Protocol Integration: Integrates NAMI and Mars Protocol for cross-chain savings, providing sustainable yields and stablecoin management.
• InMail Treasury: Provides AI-driven treasury management with email interfaces, utilizing CosmWasm and Osmosis Smart Accounts for secured crypto management.
• BreezeNode: Promotes energy-saving behaviors through a blockchain-powered smart energy management system, rewarding token-based incentives for reduced usage.
• FreshCatch: Streamlines the seafood supply chain by connecting fishermen and markets, enhancing sustainability and efficiency through direct transactions.
• LogoSpark - RECs Blockchain: Facilitates REC trading via a PoS blockchain, ensuring transparency and sustainability in renewable energy markets.

Cosmos Hub Prize Winners

• MEME HERO: A launchpad for meme tokens on Cosmos, using IBC for liquidity and customizable tokenomics within a gamified platform.
• Symbiosis
• Proof of Profit: Simulates trading environments to demonstrate verifiable profitability, securely attracting investment on-chain.
• Swift Notify: Cosmos Hub Newsletters
• Wasm ICQ Datahub

Babylon Prize Winners

• HWStaking: Integrates Ledger wallets for Bitcoin staking through Babylon, enhancing security and accessibility for stakers.

Warden Prize Winners

• SupportMEow
• InMail Treasury
• FedLearn: Enables private machine learning via decentralized federated learning and Warden Protocol integration.

Osmosis Prize Winners

• InMail Treasury
• Symbiosis
• Osmosis smart contract EOL: Provides secure crypto fund recovery through inactivity monitoring and nominee execution upon user incapacity.

Neutron Prize Winners

• Wasm ICQ Datahub
• Proof of Profit
• Neutron Drop protocol UI in TMA: Telegram app interfaces with Neutron Drop Protocol for seamless smart contract operations across networks.

Mantra Prize Winners

• TOKIFY Protocol: Manages real-world asset tokenization on the MANTRA Chain, enabling fractional ownership within a compliant, DAO-governed framework.
• FractionXChange
• mantrapy: Enhances interactions with the Mantra chain through a versatile Python library, enabling extensibility in decentralized applications.

Agoric Bounty Prize Winners

• Zero mile: Develops a liquidity layer for seamless DeFi operations across blockchains, enhancing interoperability without traditional messaging.
• SupportMEow
• Agoric: Event Registration: Expands an event registration platform to support multi-blockchain transactions through Agoric integration.

Dora Factory Bounty Prize Winners

• ZKBugs: Focuses on bug detection in Circom circuits, ensuring optimal performance for cryptographic applications.
• HACKMOS BOUNTY MINOR: Examines message chain verification vulnerabilities to enhance security in decentralized systems.

To view all winning projects and details, visit Hackmos 2024 Projects.

About the Organizer

Cosmoverse

Cosmoverse & Hackmos Dubai 2024 is a recognized entity within the technology and blockchain sectors, dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration. It is known for organizing engaging conferences and hackathons that bring together industry experts, developers, and enthusiasts to explore emerging trends and solutions. The organization's initiatives are aimed at advancing knowledge and practical applications of blockchain technology. Currently, it focuses on enhancing technological engagement and facilitating conversations to propel the industry forward.

@ ed84ce10:cccf4c2a

Hackathon Summary

The Funding the Commons & Earth Commons Hackathon concluded successfully, with 356 participants and 116 projects registered from various regions worldwide. Occurring from October 7 to November 7, 2024, the event targeted developing solutions for public goods funding through a hybrid format that combined online activities with optional in-person collaboration in Bangkok.

Participants engaged in both ideation and prototyping stages, focusing on tracks such as regenerative finance, decentralized governance, and climate innovation. With the support of workshops and mentorship, the hackathon aimed to generate tools and methods for managing shared resources more effectively.

Project evaluation criteria included innovation, impact, feasibility, functionality, collaboration, and presentation. The hackathon promoted global collaboration and creativity, aligning with its objective to enhance blockchain-based infrastructure and transform governance related to common resources, impacting sectors like ecosystems, academia, and public institutions.

In summary, the hackathon provided an opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration, contributing to the development of solutions for global challenges in public goods and environmental sustainability.

Hackathon Winners

Financial Inclusion by Stellar Prize Winners

• Freelii - Facilitates financial inclusion through cost-efficient remittances using Stellar's blockchain, integrating with Telegram to simplify transactions for the unbanked in the Global South.
• Ask Billy - Supports humanitarian efforts with blockchain-secured cash transfers and AI chatbots, enhancing aid distribution through community insights.
• Stellar Mobile Money Bridge - Connects mobile money systems with the Stellar blockchain, enhancing financial inclusion via seamless mobile money integration.

Decentralized AI by NEAR Prize Winners

• VielNetFL - Offers a federated learning platform with Fully Homomorphic Encryption for secure, decentralized machine learning, coordinated via NEAR smart contracts.
• FederNear - Utilizes the NEAR blockchain for federated learning, encrypting model parameters to ensure secure, privacy-preserving decentralized training.
• Delta - A decentralized platform using AI to predict climate disasters, employing blockchain for fund allocation transparency and disaster relief.

Decentralized Storage by Filecoin Prize Winners

• ZkResolution - Enhances DNS resolution privacy through a protocol using zero-knowledge proofs, supporting cross-chain compatibility and geographic optimization.
• SovereignSearch - A decentralized search engine prioritizing user data sovereignty, leveraging Storcha and Filecoin for immutable data storage and retrieval.
• VielNetFL - See detailed description under Decentralized AI by NEAR Prize Winners.

Environmental Impact by KlimaDAO Prize Winners

• Proof of Change - Connects funds to environmental impacts using Ethereum attestations and satellite data for accountable climate finance.
• PGAtlas - An interactive platform that displays public goods projects with geolocation and blockchain attestation for better visibility and support.
• 0xFarms - Integrates rural farming with urban AI-driven technology, utilizing blockchain for enhanced food security and transparency.
• GreenLink - No additional details provided.

Public Goods Funding Infrastructure Prize Winners

• Doogly - A multichain donation platform that enhances crypto donation flexibility and tracking with blockchain certificates.
• Dead Project Snipper - Tool for evaluating blockchain project activity to aid grant allocation through automated data analysis.
• IES (Impact Evaluation Service) - Evaluates project impact using a blockchain platform, enabling retroactive funding and outcome measurement.
• Counterfactually - Utilizes synthetic control methodology to analyze intervention impacts in web3 for optimized capital allocation.
• Ecosystem Vision - Centralized dashboard providing AI-powered grant finder and standardized data integration for crypto funding opportunities.
• GrantScan - Indexes Web3 grant applications, offering a standardized, searchable database.
• findabuilder - AI-driven platform for locating builders with Talent Protocol data and smart query processing.
• Buildooor - Facilitates hackathon collaborations using a swipe-based interface for connecting builders.
• Engagement.Vision - Analyzes community engagement by integrating on-chain and off-chain data for comprehensive metrics.

Identity and Privacy by Holonym Prize Winners

• Refugee Identity Issuer - Provides decentralized identity verification for refugees with blockchain and zero-knowledge proofs.
• Trufy - A decentralized voting tool enhancing DAO governance with credential verification for secure voting.

Fullstack Decentralizations by Layer Prize Winners

• Builder's Dollar - A stablecoin initiative for sustainable funding, integrating blockchain for project eligibility verification.

Trust and Authenticity by Numbers Protocol Prize Winners

• Jurdil - Enhances election transparency in Indonesia through blockchain-secured image capture and smart contracts.
• Infinity Book: Pet Heroes - Collaborative digital book platform that uses blockchain for authenticity and unique digital asset generation.

For more details, view all projects at the Funding the Commons SEA Hackathon 2024.

About the Organizer

Funding the Commons

Funding the Commons focuses on accelerating blockchain-based infrastructure for public goods funding by connecting researchers, builders, and funders. The organization creates an ecosystem that bridges Web2, Web3, and academia, achieving impact through international conferences, builder residencies, and hackathons. Their initiatives include experimental funding rounds designed to support open-source public goods developers. Currently, their mission emphasizes fostering scaled human coordination that prioritizes the commons, supported by rigorous impact evaluations and continuous capital flows.

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