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@ ec42c765:328c0600
2025-02-05 23:16:35
てすと
nostr:nevent1qqst3uqlls4yr9vys4dza2sgjle3ly37trck7jgdmtr23uuz52usjrqqqnjgr
nostr:nevent1qqsdvchy5d27zt3z05rr3q6vvmzgslslxwu0p4dfkvxwhmvxldn9djguvagp2
test
てs
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@ 9e5a3a1a:ed414e8d
2025-02-02 00:51:34
(deleted)
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@ dff95033:862fbf40
2025-02-05 23:02:55
Se você achava que o Brasil já tinha atingido o fundo do poço em termos de gestão fiscal, prepare-se para uma surpresa: o poço tem subsolo. O estudo **"Projeções Fiscais e Orçamentárias: O Desafio das Despesas Discricionárias"**, elaborado pela Consultoria de Orçamento e Fiscalização Financeira (Conof) da Câmara dos Deputados, é um retrato nada animador do futuro das contas públicas brasileiras. E, como todo bom retrato de família, é feio, mas é o que temos.
### **O Barco Está Afundando, mas o Capitão Continua no Churrasco**
O estudo começa com uma premissa básica: o **Regime Fiscal Sustentável (RFS)**, aquela joia rara da Lei Complementar nº 200/2024, está prestes a naufragar. A ideia era simples: limitar o crescimento das despesas primárias para evitar que o país virasse um **PIB de mentirinha** com uma dívida pública de verdade. Só que, como tudo na República do Brasil, a teoria é linda, mas a prática é uma tragédia.
O problema central é o **espaço para despesas discricionárias**, ou melhor, a falta dele. Enquanto as despesas obrigatórias (aqueles gastos que o governo não pode cortar, como aposentadorias e salários) continuam crescendo como erva daninha, o espaço para investimentos em áreas como saúde, educação e infraestrutura está diminuindo mais rápido que copo de um certo pinguço. O estudo projeta que, a partir de 2027, o governo vai ter que escolher entre pagar as estravaJanjas da Alvorada ou investir em hospitais — obviamente a estravaJanja.
### **As Pressões: Quando o Salário Mínimo Vira um Pesadelo**
O estudo lista uma série de **pressões** que estão esmagando o orçamento. A primeira delas é o **aumento do salário mínimo**, que, pasmem, não é só uma boa notícia para os trabalhadores. Ele impacta diretamente benefícios como o RGPS, o BPC, o seguro-desemprego e o abono salarial. Em 2025, o salário mínimo subiu de R$ 1.509 para R$ 1.518. Parece pouco, mas quando você multiplica isso por milhões de beneficiários, o resultado é um rombo de R$ 32,8 bilhões. É como se o governo tivesse comprado um apartamento na praia e descobrisse que a taxa de condomínio é em dólar.
E não para por aí. O estudo também aponta a necessidade de **suplementações orçamentárias** para programas como o **Auxílio-Gás** e o **Pé-de-Meia**. No caso do Pé-de-Meia, o Tribunal de Contas da União (TCU) já deu o veredito: o governo não pode usar recursos de fundos sem autorização orçamentária. Ou seja, o programa que deveria ajudar estudantes do ensino médio agora é mais um furo no bolso do contribuinte. Parabéns, 3 meses de curso de economia valeram a pena, né, Senhor Ministro da Economia!
### **Os Alívios: Um Band-Aid num Ferimento de Bala**
Claro, nem tudo está perdido. O estudo aponta algumas fontes de **alívio**, como o aumento do limite de despesa primária do Poder Executivo (R$ 12,4 bilhões) e as economias geradas pelo **pacote fiscal Brasil Mais Forte** (R$ 10,4 bilhões). Mas vamos ser sinceros: isso é como tentar apagar um incêndio florestal com um copo d'água. O pacote fiscal, aliás, é uma piada pronta. Ele promete economias, mas, na prática, é mais um remendo mal costurado em um sistema que já está caindo aos pedaços.
O estudo ainda menciona que o pacote foi "excessivamente tímido" em relação à desvinculação de despesas. Traduzindo: o governo mexeu onde não doía e ignorou os problemas reais. Enquanto isso, a **PEC Alternativa**, a qual o estudo menciona, propõe medidas mais robustas como a desindexação de despesas e a limitação de supersalários, continua engatinhando no Congresso. Ou seja, enquanto o Titanic afunda, Brasília está discutindo como as lagostas serão marinadas.
### **O Futuro: Um Cenário de Terror (Sem Pipoca)**
As projeções para o período de 2025 a 2034 são de cortar o coração — ou o bolso, dependendo de quem está lendo. O estudo mostra que, a partir de 2027, o espaço para despesas discricionárias vai encolher tanto que o governo vai ter que escolher entre pagar os funcionários públicos ou manter os hospitais abertos — Olá Correios! Ou, se der bobeira, nenhum dos dois.
O piso de investimentos de 0,6% do PIB, que já é baixo, vai consumir boa parte do pouco espaço que resta. E o pior: o estudo alerta para o risco de um **"desligamento" (shutdown)** da máquina pública. Sim, aquela coisa que acontece nos EUA quando o Congresso não aprova o orçamento. Só que, no Brasil, o shutdown não vai ser por falta de acordo, mas por falta de dinheiro mesmo. Imagine o caos: escolas fechadas, hospitais sem médicos, e o Congresso ainda tentando aprovar um aumento de salário para os parlamentares.
Dívida pública brasileira, então? Vixe, vai ser uma explosão nuclear. Anota aí: vai entrar pra história.
### **Conclusão: O Brasil Precisa de um Milagre (ou de um Novo Governo)**
O estudo da Conof é um alerta vermelho para o país. Sem medidas estruturais sérias, o Brasil vai continuar navegando em águas turbulentas, com um barco cheio de furos e um capitão que insiste em ignorar o iceberg à frente. A **PEC Alternativa** é uma luz no fim do túnel, mas, como tudo no Brasil, depende da vontade política de quem está no poder. E, convenhamos, vontade política é algo que anda em falta por aqui.
Enquanto isso, o contribuinte continua pagando a conta de um sistema que parece ter sido projetado para falir. O estudo termina com uma mensagem clara: **ou o país faz reformas profundas, ou o futuro será uma sucessão de crises fiscais**. E, no ritmo em que as coisas estão indo, o futuro já começou.
Então, se você ainda acredita que o Brasil vai recuperar-se, talvez seja hora de repensar. Ou, pelo menos, garantir que você tem um bom fundo e, em alguns casos, seguro de vida — porque o barco está afundando, e nem todos vão conseguir um lugar no bote.
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E por falar em reformas, minha preferência pessoal vai para a PEC 7/2020, uma proposta que considero mais salubre e alinhada com as necessidades estruturais do país. A PEC 7/2020 traz medidas robustas para conter o crescimento dos gastos públicos, com foco na desvinculação de despesas e na revisão de benefícios fiscais, além de propor uma reforma administrativa que promove maior eficiência e transparência na gestão pública. Se você se preocupa com o futuro fiscal do Brasil e acredita que é possível fazer mais com menos, convido você a conhecer a PEC 7/2020 e entender por que ela pode ser a chave para um orçamento público mais sustentável. Afinal, reformas profundas exigem propostas ousadas — e a PEC 7/2020 é exatamente isso.
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### REFERÊNCIAS
CÂMARA DOS DEPUTADOS. Consultoria de Orçamento e Fiscalização Financeira. **Projeções fiscais e orçamentárias: o desafio das despesas discricionárias**. Brasília, 2025. Disponível em: <https://www2.camara.leg.br/orcamento-da-uniao/estudos/2025/ET_042025_0204Projeesfiscaiseoramentriasodesafiodasdespesasdiscricionrias.pdf>. Acesso em: 05 de fev. 2025
BRAGANÇA, Luiz Orléans e. **Reforma e alinhamento tributário: a opção pelo progresso**. 2023. Disponível em: <https://lpbraganca.com.br/reforma-alinhamento-tributario-opcao-progresso/>. Acesso em: 05 de fev. 2025
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@ 9e5a3a1a:ed414e8d
2025-02-02 00:50:08
Either the phone’s battery went bad and quit charging, or the cable was shit. The warm rain running down the screen made the phone’s UI, flicker back and forth, as Ethan turned the screen on again to check how much battery he had left. Not a lot: 4%. At least the thing was water-proof, he thought. Today was also shit. First his parents confiscated he car keys after finding booze in his closet, now the fucking charging cable went bad. (Hopefully it’s the charging cable and not the battery), he thought. A car drove by splashing him with a fan of muddy water.
“Hey!” he yelled, but the red tail lights were too far away now for the driver to hear. “Fucking fuck!” he swore looking down at himself. It was too dark to see how dirty his shirt and pants were now. The light of the gas station still far away. (Oh, well), he thought and continued walking, wet gravel and sand of road’s shoulder making wet crunching noises underfoot.
Ethan’s thumb moved on the phone to turn the flashlight on, but he stopped himself. There was almost no chance that Casey’s gas station won’t have USB cables, they always did, but with today's luck they might just be out. Then he’d be screwed without a phone for the rest of the night and all day at school tomorrow. It wouldn’t be the end of the world, but he was too irate after everything today to accept not having a phone right now.
A pale form moved to his right a few yards away. He turned and saw a figure standing by the trees. Ethan stopped and squinted through the rain. A cold, creepy feeling suddenly gripped him.
It stood there and watched him. A female form, he realized, tall and pale, with black hair longer that he’s ever seen. Something was off. The face… It’s head… The mouth grinned widely, forming a dome above the eyes, eyes that were down close to the neck, under the nose, mouth and chin up above them. (It’s fucking head is upside down..) he realized.
Ethan’s thumb pressed the phone’s power button, battery be damned. He aimed it at the figure, brought up the camera app and pressed the button to take the picture. Just as the shutter sound clicked the face was suddenly full-screen, as if a few feet away from him.
Ethan gasped and the phone tumbled onto the ground. There was a moment of relief when he realized that the figure was still far away and didn’t suddenly teleport right in front of him, but then something long, black, and wide, like a cross between a ribbon and an anaconda flicked itself toward him and the last thing he felt was a thick spiderweb of hair wrapping itself around him and pulling him forward.
***
“Hey, Riley, when did your dad say you needed to be back home?” Alex’s mom yelled from downstairs. The two girls glanced at their phones to see the time.
“Eleven!” Riley yelled back. They still had half an hour of “study” time. The two really did mean to study for the calculus exam, but ended up chatting the whole evening.
“Oh shit! I got to show you something,” Riley said, turning on her phone’s screen again, “You know that ‘Grin Reaper’ thing on social media?” She scrolled through her phone’s picture gallery.
“Like, that smiling ‘monster’ with upside down head?” Alex asked.
“Yeah, the one they said kidnapped those kids”
“That’s so fake!”
“Yeah, but look!” Riley turned her screen towards her friend.
Alex took the phone from her, “What’s this?”
“It’s her! Caleb was driving me to the movies and I saw her out the window. You know where Casey’s gas station is on Maple av? There’s like a wooded area just past it when you’re driving downtown.”
“It’s just some blurry figure. Probably some homeless person… What’s that?” Alex heard some kind of scratching at the window. She walked over to look. They were on the second floor, but there were no trees close enough to scratch against the window. She opened it and look outside. No one. Just a vine attached to the wall of the house outside. Or was it a vine? Along, curly splotch of dark. Alex frowned.
“No, I saw her, for real for real. It’s looks bad on the photo because it was dark and we were moving, but her head was on upside down and grinning.” Riley insisted.
(Is it ivy?) Alex thought, only half listening to Riley, (Since when do we have ivy on the house?)
Riley wondered if she should tell Alex that when she snapped the photo it looked like the woman’s grinning, upside down face was up close suddenly, right up against the car window. Caleb almost veered off the road turning to see what was wrong when she gasped and dropped the phone. When she fished her phone from beneath the seat, the photo looked normal. Blurry but normal.
(Maybe a mud splash) Alex thought, examining the black, vine-like shadow that stuck to the house aiming at the window. (Some asshole splashed mud on the house as a prank. Someone from school?)
“You think I should post it to TikTok?” Riley asked, looking pensively at the photo.
The question brought Alex’s attention back to her. She walked back over and sat on the other side of her friend, taking the phone from her hand and looking closer at the photo. “It’s dark,” Alex rolled her eyes, “Also, some troll could have just been wearing a mask trying to scare people. That shit’s all over social media.”
“I guess…” Riley decided against telling her more. She didn’t want to sound weird.
Just then, Alex heard her phone ding somewhere behind her. She looked back to find it when she heard a choking noise from where Riley sat, “You ok?” she asked looking back and froze, not quite sure what she was seeing. Riley’s eyes were wide, her hands at her throat tugging at something black, like a scarf wrapping around her neck. More dark, tentacle-like locks reached in towards them through the window. It looked like hair, but it moved as if through water, snaking itself forward and wrapping around Riley’s arms, neck and face. Before Alex could utter a sound or register what she saw, the hair straightened, pulled back, yanking Riley out through the window.
***
Alex sits on her bed in shock, glancing back at the window every thirty seconds. She tries to resist getting up and walking over to it. It's weird feeling of being pulled towards it to make sure it’s locked and being afraid to approach it for fear of what she might see outside. What if she sees it again? It’s tentacle-like locks crawling up the house, surrounding her window ready to snatch her like it did her friend. Can it seep through the cracks and unlock the fragile latch? She feels herself standing up and walking over to the window briskly, her hands smooth over the window latch, making sure it’s still locked, her eyes darting back and forth outside. Nothing. The dark splat on the house Alex first mistook for ivy or mud is gone, too.
She sits back on the bed. Alex can hear her parents arguing downstairs. They think she's using drugs. They searched through her room the day after Riley was taken. They yelled at her that night, them and Riley’s dad, all convinced that the girls were high and Riley wondered off somewhere. Alex knew they would not believe what really happened. But lying wouldn’t help anyone find her friend. She lets think it was all a drug-induced hallucination.
(Maybe I’m crazy,) Alex thinks. Her mind searches for mentions of schizophrenia among any of her relatives. Isn’t that shit genetic?
A chill goes through her body again, suddenly. A scratching at the window? Like the one she heard before Riley was taken? “It’s not real,” she whispers out loud. It’s not real. She keeps thinking she hears it almost as often as she walks over to check the latch on the window. “It’s not real….” She has to check.
Pushing through the fear, Alex briskly walks over to the window again. Nothing it the trees out back across the lawn. She can’t see the outside of the house without opening the window but she can’t risk it. “It wasn’t real” she affirms again. Then she has an idea.
The parents’ arguing grows louder as Alex quietly opens her bedroom door and tiptoes down the stairs toward her mom’s office, trying to avoid attracting their attention. They are still pissed, she doesn't want to deal with them. She looks for scotch tape, quickly founds it, grabs a stack of paper from the printer and goes back upstairs.
If she blocks out the window, it can’t see her, even if it is lurking somewhere outside waiting to snatch her, Alex thinks as she starts to cover the glass with paper and tape. She feels better now, suddenly. It feels like she was doing something to protect herself, even if it involves being near the window and risking seeing that thing.
As the final page of printer paper is about to go up to block the glass completely, Alex freezes. A figure stands on the grass in front of the trees. In panic, Alex tries to decipher the face in the dark. The head, it is right side up. Not grinning, no hair tentacles: not the monster. With a wave of relief, she looks closer, trying to figure out who it is, and a surge of adrenaline and excitement suddenly hits her, (It's Riley!)
“Ril--,” she almost screams, fumbling with the latch. As she pulls the window up and looks back out again, the figure is gone, “Riley!” she yells into the night. No answer. Alex pulls the window closed and runs for the door, briefly coming back to latching again, just in case.
“She’s out there! Outside.” Alex almost yells as she barged into the living groom, pointing towards the back door.
“Where? Outside?” her mom says then quickly goes to the door, dad and Alex following her. In the yard they yell Riley’s name, scanning the grass hill beyond and the tree line behind it.
“Are you sure you saw her?” her dad asks.
“Yeah, it was her, for sure.”
“Are you high again?” her mom turns to her with an annoyed grimace on her face.
“I’m not fucking high, mom!”
“Don’t you talk to me this way! Get back to your room.” her mom yells.
“I’m not fucking high, mom! I saw her.”
Mom isn’t listening, she turns to dad “We should call her parents. She could really be out there,” then to Alex, “Upstairs NOW!”
Pissed, Alex walks back into the house. It feels good to be angry, anger is better than fear. She runs up the stairs and tares down the paper she had just put up on the glass. She leans against the window and scans the tree line up in the distance.
A few hour pass. Alex still gets up from time to time to check the window, but this time she is looking for Riley rather than checking the lock. Her parents have finally quieted down downstairs. It's late. They are probably asleep by now.
Alex considers going to bed herself, but she knows she wouldn't be able to sleep. She looks back out the window.
"Riley!" Her friend is there again, closer this time. Alex opens her mouth to call to her, but stops as she saw Riley raise her finger to her lips, gesturing for her to be quiet. Alex frowns, “What the fuck are you doing?” she mouths, shrugging dramatically.
Riley motions for her to come out then puts her finger to her lips again. What is she doing?
Alex thinks about waking her parents, but decides against it. They’ll just be useless and tell her to go to her room again. She quietly creeps downstairs and sneaks out the door.
She half-expects Riley to be gone again as she walks out of the house and looks out to the hillside, but Riley is still there. Further back, almost past the tree-line. She motions Alex to come closer and takes a few steps back, disappearing in the trees.
“Fuck!” Alex swears, looks back at the house one last time, then takes off across the yard after her.
***
Past the tree line in the woods, Alex crunches through the trees, lighting her way (poorly) with her phone’s flashlight. Thorns scratch her arms and legs as she walks as fast as she can, navigating among the trees, yelling Riley’s name. From time to time she can see Riley's figure moving away from her, weaving among the trees. Her friend moves effortlessly, as if gliding above the ground, unimpeded by the greenery.
Alex trips. She catches herself before she tumbles to the ground. For a second it is pitch black. She bends down to look for her phone. It is a glowing outline among the plants. Alex grabs it and gets up. For a moment she’s disoriented, not sure which way she was going. She looks and listens for her friend but sees and hears nothing. She looks back. There’s a bit of light glittering through the trees back where her neighborhood is. She looks forward and yells Riley’s name again, moving her phone trying to catch a glimpse of her friend’s figure. Nothing. Should she go back? Is Riley playing some stupid game? Maybe she is high.
Without a second though, Alex continues forward, “Riley, it’s not funny! What the fuck are you doing?” Alex can see pale gray light between the leaves and the branches up ahead. She quickens her pace, almost tripping again.
Alex walks into what looks like a small clearing. The trees are further away up ahead, but not much moon-light is coming from up above. She looks up towards the wide canopy, forming a dome overhead. Her eyes suddenly focus on a humanoid shape hanging parallel to the ground from the branches above. Its face is white, torn in two by a wide smile that almost reaches its ears. The top of the head is attached to the neck. Bands of hair suspend it from branches above.
Alex freezes. For a second she feels herself cease to exist except for her breath that moves rhythmically in and out. Moments pass. How long, she can’t tell. (Run!), the thought echoes through her head, and she almost moves to obey but stops herself. To run is to turn her back on that thing. What if that’s when it grabs her. She stays still and so does the figure.
The thing blinks and its grin becomes wider. It sways back and forth, its prehensile locks making branches creak overhead. Alex’s chest and throat grows hot and and she gathers herself. She throws herself to the side, tripping yet carrying herself forward through the snapping bush branches. With sudden agility, she rights herself and runs back into the woods. Tree trunks fly at her as she runs trying not to trip on the uneven ground. She bursts into another clearing and looks back swinging her phone to light the trees behind her to look if that thing is following her. Then her vision turns off.
She feels leaves and dirt against her face, a small pointy stick poking her in her right cheek. There’s a pressure on the side of her head and her hand moves there trying to feel what’s pushing against her. There’s nothing. The side of her head is numb. Memory of where she is and why rushes back into her and she pushes herself up with a jerk. When her vision comes back online she can only see a mosaic of black and gray forms, bushy undergrowth letting in pale light ahead of her. There is a glow coming from her left. She turns and her eyes focus quickly on phone, flashlight still on, its light flooding her vision. Alex grabs it and points it forward then all around, trying to see if she’s alone or if that thing is hiding somewhere near. She doesn’t see anyone. Only trees and quick shadows jumping away from the light as he moves it.
She’s in a sort of a clearing again, except for a large tree trunk close to her. Alex reaches for the numb spot on her head and feels that it’s wet and sticky. It’s blood. She must have ran into that tree when she looked back trying to see if that monster followed her. Alex shines the light around her again. No sign of that thing. It could be hiding in the trees just out of sight. Or… her blood runs cold. She slowly looks up, remembering where she saw that thing first.
For a second, all she can see is branches and flowing, black vines like spider webs snaking through the canopy, then her eyes discern three small, slender figures hanging like poppets from these “vines”. Children. Two smaller ones and one teenager her size. The teenager, Riley, stares at with a blank expression on her face. Then her body moves, or is moved by the tentacle “vines” holding her up. Hair, Alex realizes. He is held by the hair, not wrapped around her like back in the bedroom before Riley was pulled through the window, but growing into her flesh from behind, like thousands tiny marionette strings bunched up in locks. The hair brings Rile's hand up to her side and waves it back and forth, as if in a mocking greeting gesture.
Alex tenses. At any moment, she feels, the figures can leap at her, grab her. But, no, they stay suspended. Then, between them, higher up in the branches the hair moves, like slithering snakes or tentacles moving across each other. A fourth figure is slowly lowering itself from above. The Grin Reaper. Smiling lady with an upside down head. It stops shortly after reaching the same level as the three bodies hanging by its hair. It stares at her, the grin seemingly growing wider and wider without really changing size.
“It’s not real?” Alex, whispers to herself. They aren’t moving any closer, neither the woman nor the bodies suspended by her air. Alex’s hand tightens around her phone. (Phone can’t hallucinate) she thinks to herself. Maybe now they will believe her. She aims her phone right at the woman, her figure, looming above her, looks small on the screen. With a practiced gesture her thumb touches the camera button. As the phone snaps the photo, the screen refreshes showing the things face close up, filling the frame of the phone, as if jumping out at Alex. The girl squeaks, dropping the phone. It lands light up, still illuminating the four figures far above her, as if the woman hasn’t moved despite what the photo showed. Slowly, like a coiling snake, a tentacle-like lock of hair moves up in front of the the woman, pointing at Alex like pulled-back tongue. Then, in a flash, it flies toward her her and Alex’s vision goes black.
#story #shortstory #creepypasta #horror #fiction #writing #nostr
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@ df478568:2a951e67
2025-02-05 22:12:20
In the Case For A 100 Percent Gold Dollar, Murray Rothbard argues, “the debacle of 1931-1933, when the world abandoned the gold standard, was not a sudden shift from gold weight to paper name; it was the last step in a lenghty, complex process.” He said that before WWI, a dollar was defined as aproximately 1/20th of an ounce of gold.” If it worked, a dollar would buy about as much as $143 does today, but it didn't work.
Gold ownership was banned until Executive Order 6102 was lifted in the 1970's. According to Rothbard, France sent a battleship to the United States to repatriate its gold. Then, Nixon took the dollar "temporarily" off the gold standard in 1971. It just so happened I listened to a podcast after I started writing this. Joseph Voelnel tells the story in this podcast.
https://fountain.fm/episode/mXreHZ2um0RnxaHsWMfe
I paid for the transcript using bitcoin on the lightning network using a podcasting 2.0 app named Fountain. Try it out. You can earn small amount of bitcoin just for listening. It is not self-custodial, but it's a great way to get started if you're curious. If you're not curious, you probably won't like bitcoin.
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The US government debased gold and made it 41% after issuing Executive Order 6102. Nixon took the dollar completely off the gold standard in 1971. The dollar is still a fiat currency, backed by nothing but "good faith and credit of the United States." That's basically nothing. You might as well say the US dollar is backed by good vibes. Do you think the US can pay 36 trillion bucks back with good vibes?
I do not.
**Gold will not fix this**.
If the US went back to the gold standard, we would need to trust the good vibes of Fort Knox, but anyone in their right mind would not trust these good vibes.
*"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, P2P Foundation thread.**
Even if we self-custody gold again, metal does not prevent debasement. Here's one of my favorite quotes from Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations:
*"There was a third event which occurred in the course of the same period, and which, though it could not occasion any scarcity of corn, nor, perhaps, in the real quantity of silver which was usually paid for it, must necessarily have occasioned some augmentation in the nominal sum. This event was the great debasement of the silver coin, by clipping and wearing. This evil had begun in the reign of Charles II. and had gone on continually increasing till 1695; at which time, as we may learn from Mr Lowndes, the current silver coin was, at an average, near five-and-twenty percent. Below its standard value."*
Monetary debasement is not a new phenomenon. The double-spending problem has been around for hundreds of years. In my opinion, bitcoin is the best shot humankind has of solving the double spending problem.
*"A purely peer-to-peer version of electronic cash would allow online payments to be sent directly from one party to another without going through a financial institution. Digital signatures provide part of the solution, but the main benefits are lost if a trusted third party is still required to prevent double-spending."*
**Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin: A Peer-To-Peer Electronic Cash System**
To steel-man the case against bitcoin, I would say the biggest issue is how many people prefer to use a trusted third party to custody their bitcoin. That’s why education is important. In principle, I think we should keep 100% custody of our bitcoin. In practice, I do keep some of my sats in a custodial wallet to pay bills. I working on this, but I need to open up a fatter lightning channel and set up auto-payments to my Strike wallet. That’s my goal, but I need to I want to make sure I don’t rug myself first so I am testing it out with smaller amounts first. It is possible, it just takes time to learn how to do it safely.
I still think bitcoin is our best shot against centuries of monetary debasement.
npub1marc26z8nh3xkj5rcx7ufkatvx6ueqhp5vfw9v5teq26z254renshtf3g0
[882,461](https://mempool.marc26z.com/block/00000000000000000000511b272a9da9ff27c70afa16bd96ccb71121ee7197f1)
[Merch](https://marc26z.com/merch/)
-
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@ 8d5ba92c:c6c3ecd5
2025-02-05 22:06:18
**There I was, minding my own business at the airport (i.e., arranging the list of Bitcoin/Freedom podcasts for the next seven hours of flight), when I came across a scene that could have been ripped straight from a show about the decline of civilization. Heart-wrenching. Shocking. Dystopian. To put it simply, what the f*ck?!**
## Prologue.
A family of five, including two early-school kids (let’s call them 'Timmy' and 'Amy', around 5 and 7 years old), a father who looked like he’d given up on life, and a perfect mother multitasking like a pro—breastfeeding a baby while chowing down on a Big Mac.
Oh yeah, the whole family was happily consuming their McDonald’s junk as if it was their daily ritual.
Watching little kids eat that stuff? A mix of anger and sadness. But seeing a breastfeeding mother give her newborn absolute garbage? The scene I can’t forget.
She also washed it all down with some fizzy, sugary, chemical-laden sludge later on. Still, while breastfeeding. Because, you know, nothing screams nourishment like a steady diet of artificial stuff. Best to get them hooked in the first few months, right?
## Act One: The Mother’s Masterpiece.
A modern-day Madonna, cradling her infant while balancing junk food’s finest. The baby, blissfully unaware of the nutritional betrayal unfolding in real-time, probably wasn’t even dreaming of normal food that might one day help it grow into a healthy being.
Seeing this scene, knowing all the options available at the airport—many much more reasonable than this crap—and watching the family enjoy their 'sacred food', I’m almost certain this little one had been getting a side of heavily processed rubbish long before it even left the womb...
Rave: A standing ovation for conscious parenting.
## Act Two: Innocent Contribution.
Just when I thought the scene couldn’t get worse, little “Timmy” decided to play bartender. With the enthusiasm of a child clearly raised on a steady diet of Big Macs and Coca-Cola (or whatever other delicacies were on offer), he extended his cup to his tiny brother or sister. The devoted mother, of course, helped him guide the straw to the baby’s mouth. *“Drink, little one! Drink not just from my body, but directly from the cup. Drink this (crap) with us!”*
Why not? If McDonald’s was good enough for everyone in the family, surely it was good enough for the baby sibling, right?
They all looked almost proud of Timmy’s little “sharing is caring” moment. Meanwhile, my heart shattered into a million pieces, each one screaming, *“Seriously?! Should I interfere? How would they react?”*
I was close enough to keep taking photos, staring at them with my mouth probably hanging open, horror written all over my face. The mother met my gaze once—cold, unreadable. No 'leave us alone.' No 'it’s our business.' No 'what's wrong, tell us.' Just... nothing.
My husband, noticing my growing frustration and sensing I was about to step in, whispered, *“Let it go. You won’t save them in 10 minutes at the airport.”*
Maybe he was right. But I’ll be thinking about it for a long time…
## Act Three: A Recipe for Regret.
It was as if the parents had collectively agreed that their bodies were nothing more than human garbage bins, and their children were just smaller versions of the same.
Let’s be clear: adults can do whatever they want with their health. If you want to treat your body like a landfill, go ahead—it’s your funeral (literally). But when you drag your kids into it, it’s no longer a personal choice. It’s more like a crime. These children didn’t sign up for a life of artificial flavors, empty calories, and a future riddled with health problems. They deserve better.
And if you’re reading this thinking, *‘What’s the big deal?’*—let's talk.
My brain is on the verge of exploding, trying to understand how anyone could actively contribute to the slow, painful destruction of the people they (presumably) love. You should love and respect your own body, and even more so the lives of your kids. What could possibly justify feeding your family McDonald's if it’s not the very last option you have on earth to survive? Please, help me understand why!
## Epilogue: The Aftertaste.
As I stepped into the boarding line, I couldn’t shake the thought: Is this really where we are now?
A world where care and nutritional awareness no longer exist. Where junk food became a family tradition. Where children are raised on a cocktail of chemicals when better options are right there!
**To the McDonald’s family at the airport—and anyone on their way to becoming one:
Not sure if you enjoyed your meal. If you did, I wish you luck. You’ll need it.**
https://i.nostr.build/e8f3h9iuDNQbtmaF.png
**And please, maybe—just maybe—consider giving your kids a chance. They deserve more than a trash life packed with chemicals in a paper bag.**
----
BTC Your Mind. Let it ₿eat.
Şelale
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@ ec42c765:328c0600
2025-02-05 22:05:55
# カスタム絵文字とは
任意のオリジナル画像を絵文字のように文中に挿入できる機能です。
また、リアクション(Twitterの いいね のような機能)にもカスタム絵文字を使えます。
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# カスタム絵文字の対応状況(2025/02/06)
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カスタム絵文字を使うためにはカスタム絵文字に対応した[クライアント](https://welcome.nostr-jp.org/tutorial/explore-client.html)を使う必要があります。
※表は一例です。クライアントは他にもたくさんあります。
使っているクライアントが対応していない場合は、クライアントを変更する、対応するまで待つ、開発者に要望を送る(または自分で実装する)などしましょう。
#### 対応クライアント
- [Amethyst](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vitorpamplona.amethyst)
- [FreeFrom](https://freefrom.space/)
- [nostter](https://nostter.app/)
- [Rabbit](https://rabbit.syusui.net/)
- [Lumilumi](https://lumilumi.app/)
- [Nos Haiku](https://nos-haiku.vercel.app/)
- [Snort](https://snort.social/)
- [noStrudel](https://nostrudel.ninja/)
ここではnostterを使って説明していきます。
# 準備
カスタム絵文字を使うための準備です。
- Nostrエクステンション(NIP-07)を導入する
- 使いたいカスタム絵文字をリストに登録する
## Nostrエクステンション(NIP-07)を導入する
Nostrエクステンションは使いたいカスタム絵文字を登録する時に必要になります。
また、環境(パソコン、iPhone、androidなど)によって導入方法が違います。
Nostrエクステンションを導入する端末は、実際にNostrを閲覧する端末と違っても構いません(リスト登録はPC、Nostr閲覧はiPhoneなど)。
Nostrエクステンション(NIP-07)の導入方法は以下のページを参照してください。
[ログイン拡張機能 (NIP-07)を使ってみよう | Welcome to Nostr! ~ Nostrをはじめよう! ~ ](https://welcome.nostr-jp.org/tutorial/nip-07.html)
少し面倒ですが、これを導入しておくとNostr上の様々な場面で役立つのでより快適になります。
## 使いたいカスタム絵文字をリストに登録する
以下のサイトで行います。
[emojito](https://emojito.meme/)
右上の**Get started**からNostrエクステンションでログインしてください。
例として以下のカスタム絵文字を導入してみます。
実際より絵文字が少なく表示されることがありますが、古い状態のデータを取得してしまっているためです。その場合はブラウザの更新ボタンを押してください。
[generalJP | カスタム絵文字](https://emojito.meme/a/naddr1qqykwetwv4exzmz22qq3uamnwvaz7tmwdaehgun2vykkkctjdyhxset8w4ex7tnrdakj7q3qa3pvwe2p3v7mnjz6hle63r628wl9w567aw7u23fzqs062v5vqcqqxpqqqp65uhjtrk6)

- 右側の**Options**から**Bookmark**を選択
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これでカスタム絵文字を使用するためのリストに登録できます。
# カスタム絵文字を使用する
例としてブラウザから使えるクライアント nostter から使用してみます。
[nostter](https://nostter.app/)
nostterにNostrエクステンションでログイン、もしくは秘密鍵を入れてログインしてください。
## 文章中に使用
1. **投稿**ボタンを押して投稿ウィンドウを表示
2. **顔😀**のボタンを押し、絵文字ウィンドウを表示
3. ***タブ**を押し、カスタム絵文字一覧を表示
4. カスタム絵文字を選択
5. : 記号に挟まれたアルファベットのショートコードとして挿入される
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この状態で投稿するとカスタム絵文字として表示されます。
カスタム絵文字対応クライアントを使っている他ユーザーにもカスタム絵文字として表示されます。
対応していないクライアントの場合、ショートコードのまま表示されます。
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ショートコードを直接入力することでカスタム絵文字の候補が表示されるのでそこから選択することもできます。
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## リアクションに使用
1. 任意の投稿の**顔😀**のボタンを押し、絵文字ウィンドウを表示
2. ***タブ**を押し、カスタム絵文字一覧を表示
3. カスタム絵文字を選択
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カスタム絵文字リアクションを送ることができます。
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# カスタム絵文字を探す
先述した[emojito](https://emojito.meme/)からカスタム絵文字を探せます。
例えば任意のユーザーのページ [emojito ロクヨウ](https://emojito.meme/p/npub1a3pvwe2p3v7mnjz6hle63r628wl9w567aw7u23fzqs062v5vqcqqu3sgh3) から探したり、 [emojito Browse all](https://emojito.meme/browse) からnostr全体で最近作成、更新された絵文字を見たりできます。
また、以下のリンクは日本語圏ユーザーが作ったカスタム絵文字を集めたリストです(2025/02/06)
※漏れがあるかもしれません
[日本ユーザー作 カスタム絵文字](https://nostviewstr.vercel.app/npub17hczqvxtfv3w69wr6lxrttnpdekwdwel55mld60fr24zwjuu6utqtj8mjx/10030)
各絵文字セットにある**Open in emojito**のリンクからemojitoに飛び、使用リストに追加できます。
-----------
以上です。
次:Nostrのカスタム絵文字の**作り方**
Yakihonneリンク [Nostrのカスタム絵文字の作り方](https://yakihonne.com/article/_@lokuyow.github.io/1707912490439)
Nostrリンク nostr:naddr1qqxnzdesxuunzv358ycrgveeqgswcsk8v4qck0deepdtluag3a9rh0jh2d0wh0w9g53qg8a9x2xqvqqrqsqqqa28r5psx3
-----------
# 仕様
[NIP-30 Custom Emoji](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/30.md)
[NIP-30 カスタム絵文字(和訳)](https://github.com/nostr-jp/nips-ja/blob/main/30.md)
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@ 21ffd29c:518a8ff5
2025-02-05 21:42:14
The concept of "Sovereigns: The Power of Your Thoughts - Navigating the Journey from Awareness to Creation" can be beautifully integrated with the empowering strength of strong masculine energy. This synergy combines personal empowerment with a sense of assertiveness and confidence, guiding individuals toward their desired reality.
1. **Understanding Sovereignty**: Sovereignty in this context refers to the ability to shape one's life and reality through thought. It emphasizes personal control over external circumstances by influencing inner beliefs and perceptions.
2. **Strong Masculine Energy**: This energy is characterized by assertiveness, confidence, power, and a sense of leadership. It aligns with traits like courage, determination, and self-assurance. In the context of empowerment, it encourages individuals to take charge of their lives with strength and clarity.
3. **Integration of Concepts**:
- Personify sovereignty as a strong, authoritative figure who guides personal growth by helping others master their thoughts and create their reality.
- Emphasize the role of masculine energy in cultivating assertiveness, confidence, and leadership qualities that empower individuals to align their thoughts with their desires.
4. **Practical Steps**:
- **Mindfulness**: Practice observing thoughts and actions with clarity and calmness, fostering a state of present awareness.
- **Affirmations**: Use positive statements to reinforce self-confidence and shift belief systems towards empowerment.
- **Visualization**: Imagine desired outcomes and focus on actionable steps to achieve them, embodying the courage and determination associated with masculine energy.
- **Seeking Guidance**: Engage mentors or coaches who can provide support and clarity, reinforcing leadership qualities and assertiveness.
5. **Benefits**:
- Empowerment: Gain control over your life's direction and outcomes through mindful thought manipulation.
- Clarity & Focus: Achieve a clear vision of goals and paths towards them with confidence and determination.
- Confidence & Success: Build self-assurance from aligning actions with inner strength and assertiveness.
- Fulfillment & Peace: Experience inner satisfaction from creating a life that resonates with personal values and energy.
6. **Addressing Concerns**:
- Clarify that while beliefs influence perception, true transformation requires consistent effort and awareness of one's inner strength.
- Emphasize that thoughts can shape reality positively when aligned with assertiveness and confidence.
7. **Conclusion**: Empower yourself today to shape an extraordinary future by understanding the power of your thoughts as a tool for personal growth. Cultivate strong masculine energy through mindfulness, affirmations, visualization, and leadership qualities, guiding yourself toward a life aligned with your inner strength and determination.
By merging the concepts of sovereignty and strong masculine energy, we create a powerful framework that not only empowers individuals but also encourages them to lead lives that reflect their inner confidence and assertiveness.
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@ d4457110:c7dec82b
2025-02-05 21:38:01

> ¡Puede construir un dispositivo de firma de transacciones de Bitcoin con espacio de aire (AirGap) fuera de línea a partir de componentes comunes faciles de enconrar listos para usar!
## ¿Que es SeedSigner?
En simples palabras SeedSiner es un dispositivo de firma bitcoin
Cree su propio Seedsigner y firme transacciones en Bitcoin sin comprometer la seguridad y privacidad.
La mayoría de personas en Bitcoin respetan y valoran lo que puede hacer este aparato, pues suele verse como una navaja suiza para administrar nuestros Bitcoins y no es para menos, Veamos que puede hacer.
### ¿Que hace SeedSigner?
Los usuarios de Bitcoin generalmente construyen y usan un SeedSigner por las mismas razones que construyen y usan un nodo completo mayor privacidad, menos confianza, mayor seguridad
- Calcula la palabra 12/24 de una frase semilla BIP39
- Crea una frase semilla BIP39 usando tiradas de dados D6
- Crea una frase semilla BIP39 con entropía a partir de una foto digital
- Interfaz guiada para crear manualmente un SeedQR para almacenamiento/entrada ([video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1-PqTNx1vc))
- Compatibilidad con frase de contraseña/palabra 13/25 BIP39
- Generación nativa Segwit Multisig XPUB con pantalla QR
- Escanea y analiza datos de transacciones de códigos QR animados
- Firme transacciones y transfiera datos XPUB usando códigos QR animados ([video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPqvdQ2gSzs))
- Configura los ajustes de usuario con persistencia (opcional)
- Soporte para Bitcoin Mainnet, Testnet y Regtest
- Derivar frases semilla BIP85 secundarias indexadas
## Tres usos imprtantes
- Crea claves privadas seguras de forma minimizada
- Genere claves públicas extendidas utilizadas durante la configuración inicial de la billetera
- Firme transacciones de forma segura a través de conjuntos de códigos QR animados
## Ventajas
- La operación en aislamiento (sin USB/WiFi/Bluetooth) reduce drásticamente los vectores de ataque
- El bajo costo de construcción hace que el dispositivo sea accesible para más personas en más partes del mundo
- La apatridia hace factible el uso de SeedSigner con múltiples semillas y/o múltiples billeteras
- La arquitectura de software completamente FOSS subyacente hace posible la creación independiente desde el origen
- El uso de hardware no específico de bitcoin puede mejorar en gran medida la privacidad del usuario
## ¿Que necesitas?
- Una computadora
- Raspberry [Pi Zero](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-zero/), versión 1.3 (recomendable pero agotada en las tiendas) SeedSigner es compatible con los modelos alternativos W/WH/2W y Raspberry Pi 2/3/4 vea la disponibilidad de Raspberrys en stock en [rpilocator.com](https://rpilocator.com/), si ha elegido alguna de estas opciones alternativas es importante [deshabilitar Wifi/Bluetooth por hardware](https://estudiobitcoin.com/deshabilitar-wifi-y-bluetooth-de-raspberry-pi/) mi recomendación seria ir por la Raspberry Pi Zero 2 WH con Headers, solo tomara unos minutos hacerlo. Proceso en [video](https://video.twimg.com/amplify_video/1616914307140165635/vid/750x640/sTZKr1mknSnGfy0g.mp4?tag=16)
- Pantalla/controles [Waveshare](https://www.waveshare.com/wiki/1.3inch_LCD_HAT) de 1,3” 240x240 links de compra [Wavesshare](https://www.waveshare.com/1.3inch-lcd-hat.htm), [Amazon](https://www.amazon.es/Waveshare-Raspberry-1-3inch-Controller-Communicating/dp/B07FJQHVW8/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&dchild=1&keywords=waveshare+1.3+lcd+240&qid=1619896551&sr=8-1), [AliExpress](https://a.aliexpress.com/_ExMQg1d)
- Cámara compatible con Raspberry Pi (con un cable compatible con Zero) links de compra AliExpress [1](https://a.aliexpress.com/_Ezu0y7t) - [2](https://es.aliexpress.com/item/32788881215.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.982b1d4erfbWZD&algo_pvid=ad394e40-b1fc-4f58-a3b8-717fb6ae5964&algo_expid=ad394e40-b1fc-4f58-a3b8-717fb6ae5964-14&btsid=0bb0622a16198966649122634ee890&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_,searchweb201603_) - [3](https://es.aliexpress.com/item/32522482332.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.982b1d4erfbWZD&algo_pvid=ad394e40-b1fc-4f58-a3b8-717fb6ae5964&algo_expid=ad394e40-b1fc-4f58-a3b8-717fb6ae5964-13&btsid=0bb0622a16198966649122634ee890&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_,searchweb201603_) - [4](https://es.aliexpress.com/item/1005002264527015.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.982b1d4erfbWZD&algo_pvid=ad394e40-b1fc-4f58-a3b8-717fb6ae5964&algo_expid=ad394e40-b1fc-4f58-a3b8-717fb6ae5964-27&btsid=0bb0622a16198966649122634ee890&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_,searchweb201603_)
- MicroSD (minimo 4GB) con adaptador SD para conectar a la computadora y grabar la imagen, link de compra [Amazon](https://www.amazon.es/SanDisk-Tarjeta-microSDXC-Adaptador-Rendimiento/dp/B08HYFMVV6/ref=sr_1_14?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&dchild=1&keywords=micro%2Bsd&qid=1619899692&sr=8-14&th=1)
- Powerbank con cable MicroUSB o cargador de RaspberryPi, es importante resaltar que si decide usar una powerbank asegurese que esta tenga un modo de bajo consumo
- Impresora 3D (opcional) si no dispone de una compre un case para su SeedSigner [1](https://www.gobrrr.me/) - [2](https://robotechy.com/) - [3](https://diynodes.com/) - [4](https://anchorhodl.com/shop) - [5](https://btc-hardware-solutions.square.site/) - [6](https://www.lazada.com.ph/products/open-pill-seedsigner-enclosure-i2659416132-s13057065016.html) - [7](https://stackbit.me/categoria-produto/cases/)
> Quiero saltarme todo el proceso de armado y de comprar materiales, quiero un [SeedSigner ya!](https://btc-hardware-solutions.square.site/)
## Empecemos
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1. Descargar la [imagen correspondiente](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner/releases/tag/0.6.0) al hardare de Raspberry Pi
2. Grabar la imagen en la microSD use [Rufus](https://rufus.ie/es/) para windows y [BalenaEtcher](https://etcher.balena.io/) para MacOS
3. **Ensamblado**
- Conectar la placa con los pines GPIO (omitir esta parte si estos ya vienen soldados)
- Encajar los pines GPIO con la pantalla Waveshare
4. Inserte la SD
5. Poner en un case. Hay varios diseños que puede descargar para imprimir
- [Open Pill](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner/tree/main/enclosures/open_pill)
- [Orange Pill](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner/tree/main/enclosures/orange_pill)
- [Simple Pill](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner/tree/main/enclosures/orange_pill)
- [Lill Pill](https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/gadget/lil-pill-seedsigner-case)
- [OrangeSurf Case](https://github.com/orangesurf/orangesurf-seedsigner-case)
- [PS4 Seedsigner](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5363525)
- [OpenPill Faceplate](https://www.printables.com/en/model/179924-seedsigner-open-pill-cover-plates-digital-cross-jo)
- [Waveshare Coverplate](https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/various/seedsigner-coverplate-for-waveshare-1-3-inch-lcd-hat-with-240x240-pixel-display)
6. Guarde sus semillas y SeedQR ([plantillas,](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner#seedqr-printable-templates) preferiblemente metal)
Si tiene dudas preguntas o aportes vaya a su [Github](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner), [Telegram](https://t.me/joinchat/GHNuc_nhNQjLPWsS)
## Referencias
> Sitios con las que me apoye para hacer este proyecto
Puede seguir estas guias de instrucciones con mucho mas detalle
- [Estudio Bitcoin](https://estudiobitcoin.com/seedsigner-que-es-y-guia-de-montaje/) por [Lunaticoin](https://twitter.com/lunaticoin)
- [Desobediente Tecnologico](https://github.com/DesobedienteTecnologico/rpi_disable_wifi_and_bt_by_hardware)
-
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@ a367f9eb:0633efea
2025-02-05 20:41:31
When a consumer has an account at their bank or another financial service closed on them, it’s a maddening experience.
These notices usually appear seemingly out of the blue, giving the customer just a few weeks to empty their funds from the account to move them elsewhere.
Sometimes, it’s because of fraudulent activity or suspicious transactions. It may also be because of a higher risk profile for customer, including those who often pay their bills late or let their account go negative too many times.
These customers will necessarily be categorized as much riskier to the bank’s operations and more liable to have their accounts closed.
But what if accounts are shut down not because of any true financial risk, but because the banks believe their customers are a *regulatory* risk?
Perhaps you buy and sell cryptocurrencies, partake in sports betting, or own and operate a cannabis dispensary in a state where it’s legal? While each of these categories of financial transactions are not suspicious nor illegal in themselves, they increase the scrutiny that regulators will place on banks that take on such customers.
While any reasonable standard of risk management applied to banking will discriminate against accounts that rack up fees or clearly participate in fraud, the notion of inherent risk due to regulatory punishment doled out to banks is a separate and concerning issue.
As Cato Institute Policy Analyst Nick Anthony [rightly sketches out](https://www.cato.org/blog/two-types-debanking-operational-governmental), this creates a dichotomy between what he deems “operational” debanking and “governmental” debanking, where the former is based on actual risk of default or fraud while the latter is due only to regulatory risk from government institutions and regulators.
**The Bank Secrecy Act and Weaponization**
The law that creates these mandates and imposes additional liabilities on banks is called the **Bank Secrecy Act,** originally signed into law in 1970.
Though banking regulation has existed in some form throughout the 19th and [20th centuries](https://tile.loc.gov/storage-services/service/ll/fedreg/fr010/fr010111/fr010111.pdf), the BSA imposed new obligations on financial institutions, mandating **Know Your Customer** and **Anti-Money Laundering** programs to fully identify bank customers and surveil their transactions to detect any potentially illegal behavior.
Without any requirements for warrants or judicial orders, banks are forced to report the “suspicious” transactions of their customers directly to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), what is called a “Suspicious Activity Report”. The grounds for filing this could be anything from the name of the recipient, whether the amount is over $10,000, or perhaps even any note or description in the bank transfer that may allude to some criminal activity. If the banks do not file this pre-emptively, they could be on the hook for massive penalties from regulators.
As the House Weaponization Subcommittee [revealed](https://judiciary.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/republicans-judiciary.house.gov/files/2024-12/2024-12-05-Financial-Surveillance-in-the-United-States.pdf) in one of its final reports, the Bank Secrecy Act and SARs were ramped up specifically to target political conservatives, MAGA supporters, and gun owners.
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The consequences of the BSA and its imposed surveillance have reaped unintended havoc on millions of ordinary Americans. This is especially true for those who have undergone “debanking”.
Many Bitcoin and cryptocurrency entrepreneurs, for example, have been debanked on the [sole grounds](https://www.axios.com/2024/12/01/debanked-crypto-andreessen-joe-rogan) of being involved in the virtual currency industry, while millions of others have been swept up in the dragnet of the BSA and financial regulators forcibly deputizing banks to cut off customers, often without explanation.
According to FinCEN guidance, financial institutions are [compelled](https://www.fincen.gov/resources/advisories/fincen-advisory-fin-2010-a014) to keep suspicious activity reports confidential, even from customers, or face criminal penalties. This just makes the problems worse.
**Further reading**
The [excellent research](https://www.cato.org/policy-analysis/revising-bank-secrecy-act-protect-privacy-deter-criminals) by the team at the Cato Institute’s Center for Monetary and Financial Alternatives provides reams of data on these points. As put by Cato’s **Norbert Michel**, “People get wrapped up in BSA surveillance for simply spending their own money”.
My colleagues and I have written [extensively](https://consumerchoicecenter.org/de-banking-is-an-avoidable-consequence-of-strict-financial-regulation/) about why we need reforms to undue the financial surveillance regime that only accelerates debanking of Americans. It’s even worse for those who are interested in the innovative world of Bitcoin and its crypto-offspring as [I explain here](https://www.btcpolicy.org/articles/downgrading-the-bank-secrecy-act-is-a-powerful-reform-for-bitcoin).
It’s one reason why the [Consumer Choice Center supports the **Saving Privacy Act**](https://consumerchoicecenter.org/reform-the-bank-secrecy-act-to-better-protect-consumer-financial-privacy/) introduced by Sens. Mike Lee and Rick Scott, which would vastly reform the Bank Secrecy Act to remove the pernicious and faulty Suspicious Activity Report system.
As the Senate Banking Committee [holds a hearing](https://www.banking.senate.gov/newsroom/majority/scott-announces-witnesses-for-debanking-hearing) on debanking in February 2025, we hope they will zero-in on the issue of excessive financial surveillance required by financial regulators and the harmful and likely unconstitutional impact of the **Bank Secrecy Act**. With renewed interest and motivation, American leaders can reform these rules to ensure that our financial privacy and freedom to transact are restored and upheld.
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@ ec42c765:328c0600
2025-02-05 20:30:46
# カスタム絵文字とは
任意のオリジナル画像を絵文字のように文中に挿入できる機能です。
また、リアクション(Twitterの いいね のような機能)にもカスタム絵文字を使えます。
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# カスタム絵文字の対応状況(2024/02/05)
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カスタム絵文字を使うためにはカスタム絵文字に対応した[クライアント](https://welcome.nostr-jp.org/tutorial/explore-client.html)を使う必要があります。
※表は一例です。クライアントは他にもたくさんあります。
使っているクライアントが対応していない場合は、クライアントを変更する、対応するまで待つ、開発者に要望を送る(または自分で実装する)などしましょう。
#### 対応クライアント
- [Amethyst](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vitorpamplona.amethyst)
- [FreeFrom](https://freefrom.space/)
- [nostter](https://nostter.app/)
- [Rabbit](https://rabbit.syusui.net/)
- [Snort](https://snort.social/)
- [noStrudel](https://nostrudel.ninja/)
ここではnostterを使って説明していきます。
# 準備
カスタム絵文字を使うための準備です。
- Nostrエクステンション(NIP-07)を導入する
- 使いたいカスタム絵文字をリストに登録する
## Nostrエクステンション(NIP-07)を導入する
Nostrエクステンションは使いたいカスタム絵文字を登録する時に必要になります。
また、環境(パソコン、iPhone、androidなど)によって導入方法が違います。
Nostrエクステンションを導入する端末は、実際にNostrを閲覧する端末と違っても構いません(リスト登録はPC、Nostr閲覧はiPhoneなど)。
Nostrエクステンション(NIP-07)の導入方法は以下のページを参照してください。
[ログイン拡張機能 (NIP-07)を使ってみよう | Welcome to Nostr! ~ Nostrをはじめよう! ~ ](https://welcome.nostr-jp.org/tutorial/nip-07.html)
少し面倒ですが、これを導入しておくとNostr上の様々な場面で役立つのでより快適になります。
## 使いたいカスタム絵文字をリストに登録する
以下のサイトで行います。
[emojito](https://emojito.meme/)
右上の**Get started**からNostrエクステンションでログインしてください。
例として以下のカスタム絵文字を導入してみます。
実際より絵文字が少なく表示されることがありますが、古い状態のデータを取得してしまっているためです。その場合はブラウザの更新ボタンを押してください。
[generalJP | カスタム絵文字](https://emojito.meme/a/naddr1qqykwetwv4exzmz22qq3uamnwvaz7tmwdaehgun2vykkkctjdyhxset8w4ex7tnrdakj7q3qa3pvwe2p3v7mnjz6hle63r628wl9w567aw7u23fzqs062v5vqcqqxpqqqp65uhjtrk6)
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- 右側の**Options**から**Bookmark**を選択
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これでカスタム絵文字を使用するためのリストに登録できます。
# カスタム絵文字を使用する
例としてブラウザから使えるクライアント nostter から使用してみます。
[nostter](https://nostter.app/)
nostterにNostrエクステンションでログイン、もしくは秘密鍵を入れてログインしてください。
## 文章中に使用
1. **投稿**ボタンを押して投稿ウィンドウを表示
2. **顔😀**のボタンを押し、絵文字ウィンドウを表示
3. ***タブ**を押し、カスタム絵文字一覧を表示
4. カスタム絵文字を選択
5. : 記号に挟まれたアルファベットのショートコードとして挿入される
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この状態で投稿するとカスタム絵文字として表示されます。
カスタム絵文字対応クライアントを使っている他ユーザーにもカスタム絵文字として表示されます。
対応していないクライアントの場合、ショートコードのまま表示されます。
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ショートコードを直接入力することでカスタム絵文字の候補が表示されるのでそこから選択することもできます。
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## リアクションに使用
1. 任意の投稿の**顔😀**のボタンを押し、絵文字ウィンドウを表示
2. ***タブ**を押し、カスタム絵文字一覧を表示
3. カスタム絵文字を選択
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カスタム絵文字リアクションを送ることができます。
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# カスタム絵文字を探す
先述した[emojito](https://emojito.meme/)からカスタム絵文字を探せます。
例えば任意のユーザーのページ [emojito ロクヨウ](https://emojito.meme/p/npub1a3pvwe2p3v7mnjz6hle63r628wl9w567aw7u23fzqs062v5vqcqqu3sgh3) から探したり、 [emojito Browse all](https://emojito.meme/browse) からnostr全体で最近作成、更新された絵文字を見たりできます。
また、以下のリンクは日本語圏ユーザーが作ったカスタム絵文字を集めたリストです(2024/06/30)
※漏れがあるかもしれません
[日本ユーザー作 カスタム絵文字](https://nostviewstr.vercel.app/npub17hczqvxtfv3w69wr6lxrttnpdekwdwel55mld60fr24zwjuu6utqtj8mjx/10030)
各絵文字セットにある**Open in emojito**のリンクからemojitoに飛び、使用リストに追加できます。
-----------
以上です。
次:Nostrのカスタム絵文字の**作り方**
Yakihonneリンク [Nostrのカスタム絵文字の作り方](https://yakihonne.com/article/_@lokuyow.github.io/1707912490439)
Nostrリンク nostr:naddr1qqxnzdesxuunzv358ycrgveeqgswcsk8v4qck0deepdtluag3a9rh0jh2d0wh0w9g53qg8a9x2xqvqqrqsqqqa28r5psx3
-----------
# 仕様
[NIP-30 Custom Emoji](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/30.md)
[NIP-30 カスタム絵文字(和訳)](https://github.com/nostr-jp/nips-ja/blob/main/30.md)
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@ eee391ee:8d0b97c2
2025-02-05 19:37:29
## Amber 3.2.1
- Add some details when signing a contact list
- Refactor check for logged in account
- After granting notification permissions show the notification
Download it with [zap.store]( https://zapstore.dev/download), [Obtainium]( https://github.com/ImranR98/Obtainium), [f-droid]( https://f-droid.org/packages/com.greenart7c3.nostrsigner) or download it directly in the [releases page]( https://github.com/greenart7c3/Amber/releases/tag/v3.2.1)
If you like my work consider making a [donation]( https://greenart7c3.com)
## 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-v3.2.1.txt` and `manifest-v3.2.1.txt.sig` are in the current directory) with:
``` bash
gpg --verify manifest-v3.2.1.txt.sig manifest-v3.2.1.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-v3.2.1.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.
-
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@ ed60dae0:cc3d5108
2025-02-05 19:22:31
I'm a student. I study Bitcoin and markets. I am not a financial advisor, hold no licenses or registrations, and am not qualified to give advice on anything. Talk to your financial advisor. Do your own research.
I get things wrong. If I ever list predictions about the future, note that I will likely get them (partially) wrong.
I often own positions in the names I discuss in my posts. None of this is ever a solicitation to buy or sell securities. It is simply a look into my personal opinions and portfolio. These positions may change immediately after I publish a piece, with or without notice. You are on your own. Do not make decisions based on my posts.
## Use of The First Bastion
Use of The First Bastion (TFB) is at your own risk. In no event shall TFB or any affiliated party be liable for any direct or indirect trading losses caused by any information posted by TFB.
You agree to conduct your own research and due diligence and consult your own financial, legal, and tax advisors before making any investment decision regarding securities mentioned herein. As of the publication date of any content by TFB, you should assume that TFB (possibly along with members, partners, affiliates, employees, and/or consultants) and our clients and/or investors hold positions, long or short, in all stocks and assets (and/or options of the stocks or assets) covered. We may stand to realize significant gains if the price of any stock or asset covered herein moves in our favor. Following the publication of any material on this site or other TFB social media platforms, I may continue transacting in the securities discussed and may be long, short, or neutral at any time thereafter, regardless of prior recommendations, conclusions, or opinions.
This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any security, nor shall any security be offered or sold in any jurisdiction where such an offer would be unlawful under the securities laws of that jurisdiction.
To the best of my ability and belief, all information contained herein is accurate and reliable, obtained from public sources I believe to be accurate and reliable, and not from insiders or individuals connected to the stock or asset discussed who may owe fiduciary or confidentiality obligations. However, all information is presented "as is," without any warranty—express or implied. TFB makes no representation regarding the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of any information provided or the results that may be obtained from its use. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice, and TFB does not undertake to update or supplement this site, my social media, or any of the information contained herein.
-
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@ fa7153ef:1de1cf78
2025-02-05 18:05:42
"Things usually don't pan out the way you want them to."
It's not really a quote, probably someone said it at some point, but I just wanted to have it at the beginning. My thought process while sitting here is going as - I haven''t written anything for close to 6 months, I need to refer to that fact, and say something about it. I know, things don't usually work out, and wanting to write once a week turned to be no writing for 6 months. Tough luck
I don't really have a good explanation for this. Last post was from end of August 2024. I wouldn't say a lot of things happened in the meantime (especially not a lot that would make me not have time to sit down and write something). People always ask "How have you been?", "Anything happened to you lately?", and my answer is usually - "Nothing special", "Nothing new", "Same old".. (that's probably why I'm not good in conversations with people). But a lot of things have happened, it's just that I feel none of my stories would be interesting to people, or things I find fascinating would just bore everyone. So I usually keep quiet. This is strange, really, since a lot of things that people talk to me about, I don't really care for. But those are their interests, and what are friends for, than to listen to each other? I may be wrong with this one, since writing these words was hard - and I don't really believe in them. It requires some additional thought.
I've always considered myself to be good at spotting when people are uncomfortable, or bored with something (or someone) - like George form Seinfeld. It's likely that I've caught on to people being that way in my presence, so I stopped sharing a lot. Who the heck knows, it's hard being your own psychiatrist, so I won't be one. I'm here to write things.
Since we're on the topic of what happened in the past 6 months, I'd really need to think about everything, and even though you're reading this quickly, a lot of pause has been made when composing this list (I'm going at it one by one, and really trying to remember):
- I met with my old university friends - haven't seen them in 3 years
- visited my sister in another country, and hung out with my little nephew
- had a PR in my squats (50kg) - it's a topic for a different day, but it's a big thing for me, I'm very proud of it.
- I'm working on my spiritual side - trying to get closer to God by reading scripture, praying, and listening to various sermons (which is also a good topic - to share my experiences here)
- I'm following semen retention, it's been a whole year recently. Being single helps, but I won't go into details of it now
- I bought a small 25-key keyboard, and I'm learning playing on it (trying to transfer as much as I can from the guitar experience)
- I feel like anxiety, and fears which have been overwhelming my whole life, have died down a bit. I can still feel them, and when days are bad, so are they, but there have been a lot of good days. Causes for this are numerous, but again, a topic for another time
- I've kept my job
- I've started buying Bitcoin again - I was so "down and out" that even the thought of re-activating my accounts on exchanges was a no-go, but somehow I managed to do it, and am becoming increasingly richer in sats, on a daily basis
- I've been going out more - hanging out with people, and socializing - I'm noticing a substantial increase of this kind of behaviour. I'm not really meeting new people, mostly stick to the ones I already know (which is not a lot)
- I've visited my lifelong friend in another country again, and have a feeling we've rekindled the friendship. It's been a rough time for both of us, and even though we met here and there, at times it felt to be more of a chore. Now, I feel things have changed a bit, and I like it.
- I'm still living with my parents. I don't hate it, it's just something I do. There are strange comments, and I guess people find it curious, but it is what it is.
- I have a much better relation with my father. We've always had an OK relation. He's also a reserved person - I'm not sure of the term and google isn't helping. Likes to keep to himself mostly. We've found some common topics to discuss, and I've been enjoying it. He seems to like it as well. It mostly revolves around football, and watching games together.
- even though I've been sick for the past couple of weeks, my health in general is good. I'm not totally happy with the situation I'm in, but it's still miles ahead of what it has been just a year or two ago
- Some plans have been popping up in my head - after a long time, I have some things I'd like to do. It usually takes a long time to actually do them, but even the thought of wanting something new and different is refreshing, and I'll take it.
I don't know.. There probably are a lot of other things - I mean, there certainly are more private thoughts I've been thinking about - love, romance, romantic partners, God, inner peace, lust, fears, music, family, future.. But I'm not willing to share those yet.
I've finished the Bible last year - by doing daily readings of 10-15 minutes via an app. I've restarted it this year, and going through it again.
Also, I'M noticing that a lot of these sentences start with "I've done this", "I've done that", "I'm this" or "I'm that" - it's understandable, with this being sort-of a personal writing journey, but somehow it's not sitting well with me to have most of the sentences being this way.
I'll keep that in mind for next time. ^^
-
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@ 638d2a79:f5645f4e
2025-02-05 18:05:19
When doing division with two-digit dividends, round up to the nearest tens place if the number ends in 6-9.
**Example:**
200÷29200 \div 29200÷29 can be approximated as 200÷30200 \div 30200÷30, which simplifies to 20÷320 \div 320÷3.
Also, zeros cancel out in division.
**Example:**
20000÷70020000 \div 70020000÷700 can be simplified to 200÷7200 \div 7200÷7, which gives the same answer.
### Multiplication Rule:
When doing multiplication, do not write out all of the zeros.
**Example:**
For 90×290 \times 290×2, you don’t need to write out “00” at the start. Just do 9×29 \times 29×2 and add the zero later.
### Division with Two-Digit Divisors:
If the second digit of the divisor is between 1-5, only divide the first digit by the first digit.
**Example:**
5124÷215124 \div 215124÷21 can be solved as follows:
1. Approximate: 5÷2=25 \div 2 = 25÷2=2 (write 2 as the first digit).
2. 21×2=4221 \times 2 = 4221×2=42, subtract to get 92.
3. 9÷2≈49 \div 2 \approx 49÷2≈4, so 21×4=8421 \times 4 = 8421×4=84, subtract to get 8.
4. Bring down the 4 to make 84, which we already know is 21×421 \times 421×4.
5. Final answer: **244**.
![[Recording 20250122112454.m4a]]
### Converting a Remainder into a Decimal:
To turn a remainder into a decimal, divide the remainder by the divisor.
6. Add a zero to the end of your remainder and divide normally.
7. The quotient becomes the decimal value.
**Example:**
32÷10032 \div 10032÷100 → Rewrite as 320÷100320 \div 100320÷100.
- 100 goes into 320 three times (3).
- Bring down a zero → 30.
- Add another zero → 300 → 100 goes in three times (3).
- Final answer: **0.32**.
If one of the numbers is smaller, like in 880÷22880 \div 22880÷22, where 22 doesn’t go into 0:
- Instead, check how many times **0.22** goes into **88**. The answer is **4**.
- 22 goes into 0, 0 times.
- So, 880÷22=40880 \div 22 = 40880÷22=40.
### Division with Three-Digit Numbers:
Use the same method as with two-digit divisors.
**Example:** 100,492÷518100,492 \div 518100,492÷518
- Approximate using **5** for each digit of the answer.
Another example:
36.85÷21636.85 \div 21636.85÷216
- 222 goes into **3** once → Write **1**.
- 216×1=216216 \times 1 = 216216×1=216, subtract from **368** → **152**.
- Bring down the **5** and continue dividing.
### Calculating Volume:
To find the volume of something, use the equation:
Width×Height\text{Width} \times \text{Height}Width×Height
The answer will be in **square units**.
**Example:**
A 2D box with width **1 inch** and height **4 inches** has an area of **4 inches squared**.
### [[America|American]] Flag Instructions:
- The length of the flag is **1.9 times its width**.
- Each stripe should be **one-thirteenth** of the flag's height.
- The blue area covers **7.6** of the flag’s width.
- The height of the blue area is exactly **7 stripes**, or **7/13** of the flag’s height.
### Finding the Median Score of a Class:
8. Count the number of students with the highest score, then move downward.
9. Write scores in one column and the number of students in another.
10. Find the median of the possible scores.
**Example:**
Possible scores: **10, 9, 8, 6, 4** → Median is **8**.
Then, count students until you reach the middle score **(8 or the median value)**
| Posable score | number of students |
| - | |
| 10 | 3 |
| 9 | 6 |
| 8 | 4 |
| 6 | 1 |
| 4 | 1 |
The answer would be 6 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 and we are in the 6 Groupe
Tags: [[arrhythmic]]
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@ 638d2a79:f5645f4e
2025-02-05 18:03:29
China was ruled by one ruler, but over time, China split into two—South and North—which had a rivalry between them. At this time, Yang Chien was a general in the army of Northern China. He thought that China should be whole once more, so, like any _insert age here_ year old would do, he attacked the king of the South (for peace!). After a bit of fighting, he overpowered Southern China and took control of all of China. This man founded a dynasty—the Sui Dynasty—to rule and to keep China united.
But wait! Rivers made travel difficult between the North and South, so his son created a new river when he became emperor. This canal made it easier to cross the rivers, which greatly improved trade. The people did not like working on this river, and after it was completed, they killed him, making him the second and last emperor of the Sui Dynasty.
Cue the new emperor, Li Yuan, AKA "the smart guy." He wanted to stay alive for a long time, and he saw how unhappy people had just killed the last important ruler. So, he decided to invest in keeping people happy instead. This started the Golden Age of China, also called the Tang Dynasty.
Tags: [[human behavior index]]
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@ e3ba5e1a:5e433365
2025-02-05 17:47:16
I got into a [friendly discussion](https://x.com/snoyberg/status/1887007888117252142) on X regarding health insurance. The specific question was how to deal with health insurance companies (presumably unfairly) denying claims? My answer, as usual: get government out of it!
The US healthcare system is essentially the worst of both worlds:
* Unlike full single payer, individuals incur high costs
* Unlike a true free market, regulation causes increases in costs and decreases competition among insurers
I'm firmly on the side of moving towards the free market. (And I say that as someone living under a single payer system now.) Here's what I would do:
* Get rid of tax incentives that make health insurance tied to your employer, giving individuals back proper freedom of choice.
* Reduce regulations significantly.
* In the short term, some people will still get rejected claims and other obnoxious behavior from insurance companies. We address that in two ways:
1. Due to reduced regulations, new insurance companies will be able to enter the market offering more reliable coverage and better rates, and people will flock to them because they have the freedom to make their own choices.
2. Sue the asses off of companies that reject claims unfairly. And ideally, as one of the few legitimate roles of government in all this, institute new laws that limit the ability of fine print to allow insurers to escape their responsibilities. (I'm hesitant that the latter will happen due to the incestuous relationship between Congress/regulators and insurers, but I can hope.)
Will this magically fix everything overnight like politicians normally promise? No. But it will allow the market to return to a healthy state. And I don't think it will take long (order of magnitude: 5-10 years) for it to come together, but that's just speculation.
And since there's a high correlation between those who believe government can fix problems by taking more control and demanding that only credentialed experts weigh in on a topic (both points I strongly disagree with BTW): I'm a trained actuary and worked in the insurance industry, and have directly seen how government regulation reduces competition, raises prices, and harms consumers.
And my final point: I don't think any prior art would be a good comparison for deregulation in the US, it's such a different market than any other country in the world for so many reasons that lessons wouldn't really translate. Nonetheless, I asked Grok for some empirical data on this, and at best the results of deregulation could be called "mixed," but likely more accurately "uncertain, confused, and subject to whatever interpretation anyone wants to apply."
https://x.com/i/grok/share/Zc8yOdrN8lS275hXJ92uwq98M
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@ 77aba0b1:7e3350f5
2025-02-05 15:42:06
### **Canada and Mexico don't have any leverage**
The cheapest labor in the world is not China and it's not on the other side of the world. It's in Mexico.
######
Due to rising Chinese wages, a rapidly growing economy, and demographic changes, China is no longer the low-wage capital of the world. Great news for Mexico as it means more manufacturing jobs have come their way. But bad news if your wealthy neighbor to the north wants to impose tariffs that are going to prevent you from selling to the world's largest consumer market.
---
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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum talking with President Trump | AI generated image
---
Now consider Canada's dilemma. The US buys 97% of Canada's oil, at a discount. Canada lacks the capacity to refine 75% of their oil production, so they have to sell their sour crude oil to the US at discounted rates because only the US has the infrastructure to move, refine, store, and distribute this commodity. (See [video](https://x.com/themfingcoo/status/1885838258451493305?s=46) for a detailed explanation.)
---
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meeting with President Trump | AI generated image
---
Canada and Mexico share a common double-edged sword; they're geographically close to the United States. This is a huge benefit for reducing transportation costs to the largest consumer market in the world. But that also means you don't have the transportation infrastructure necessary to sell your products around the world.
######
China had to build a global transportation and supply chain infrastructure if it wanted to reach American and European markets. Because of this inherent characteristic, China is much better positioned to withstand an economic trade war with the United States than either Mexico or Canada.
######
People often mention how fragile the American economy has become because of its reliance on imported foreign goods. They are absolutely correct. But that cuts both ways. The United States can be cut off from foreign goods, but foreign nations will be cut off from a market to sell their products. What happens when there is a huge supply of goods and demand for those goods goes away? Prices drop... precipitously.
######
The United States largest export is the US Dollar. Like it or not, as the printer of the Global Reserve Currency, the US finances the consumer markets and the manufacturing base of the world economy.
---
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The value of fiat currencies always goes to zero | AI generated image
---
### **Free Trade vs Managed Trade**
We see a lot of economists and media pundits talking about how tariffs will increase prices and lead to even more inflation. What they really mean is it will lead to "price inflation" which is how most of American society has come to view inflation. Actual inflation is an increase of the money supply and with more moeny chases the same amounts of goods and services, we get an increase in prices or price inflation.
######
The same people who told you that inflation was "transitory" are now telling you the price of a Corona will go up. They're forgetting that we have a fairly robust domestic beer industry.
---
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Chuck Schumer and Dylan Mulvaney share bad takes | AI generated image
---
But what really needs to be highlighted is that these pundits are discussing Trump's trade war as if we lived under a free trade system; a truly free market. Sadly, we are nowhere close to this being a reality. The global economic system is Managed Trade, or Bureaucratic Trade; with corporations, lobbyists, the politically appointed and well connected making deals that protect their fiefdoms and syphon money to those who control the levers of power.
######
They are right that tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods and those taxes are passed on to the consumer. But they act as if tariffs don't didn't exist before Trump. The Biden administration placed tariffs on Chinese "green" technologies. The same administration that said climate change was an existential threat made cheaper, environmentally friendly technology more expensive. It's almost as if it's not about the climate.
### **The Global Economic Empire**
When you owe the bank $1 million, the bank owns you. When you owe the bank $37 trillion, you own the bank.
######
Trump is betting the house and calling everyone's bluff and he's betting that the US can weather the economic fallout better than any other country, except maybe China. It's a race to the bottom and he knows that the USG can cover its finances longer, causing other countries to go bankrupt and need US assistance.
######
It's the equivalent of a run on the banks and the US will buy up the debt for cheap. Really they'll buy it for free, since they're printing the currency they buy up assets with. Canada and Mexico folding are a no brainer. Their economies are not built to export large quantities of goods acros the world. It's almost entirely north or south across the border. They had to cave or risk economic collapse.
---
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China: Rising Dragon or Paper Tiger | AI generated image
---
######
China is another story. "Is China a Rising Dragon or a Paper Tiger" has been the headline for 20 to 30 years ever since Deng Xiaoping liberalized their economy and instituted social reform. Their economy has been booming but also suffering from population decline due to the One Child policy that was in effect from 1980 to 2016.
######
China has a global supply chain and provides most of the world with manufactured goods. That means they need markets to sell their goods in. If Trump threatens every nation with tariffs, it effects the global economy; meaning it will massively effect China. Couple that with a declining population that’s getting older.
######
The strength of the Chinese economy is that it already has this well established global supply chain. They stand the best chance to weather a trade war with the United States. But a global economic collapse would be a race to the bottom to see which, if any, global power emerges victorious. Just as in war, there is no winner; just bigger losers than others.
######
If Trump uses this leverage to get concessions that benefit the American people, he could be the greatest statesmen who ever lived. Trump may not be clever enough to think this deeply, but he is certainly brash and confident enough to attempt it.
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-05 15:17:47
Another good day, but not quite on par with yesterday. I'm sipping some coffee, after 16 hours dry fasting. I'm not really hungry yet, so I'll probably go a while longer before I eat.
Yesterday was the first day that I really noticed the different taste in my mouth that indicates ketosis. Interestingly, it lasted all day. I figured it would wane after I ate a bunch of pasta.
Another thing I've noticed is that I'm more interested in eating fresh produce than normal. A side benefit of dry fasting might be that juicier foods become more appealing.
## Score Card
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: 18 hours (17 dry)
Day 5: TBD (16 dry)
I'm also on day 3 of a Workit 10k steps/day challenge. So far so good.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/876598
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@ a012dc82:6458a70d
2025-02-05 14:29:47
The cryptocurrency market is a dynamic and often unpredictable space. With Bitcoin's impressive surge in value, many investors are looking beyond the pioneer cryptocurrency to diversify their portfolios. This article explores various cryptocurrency options, weighing the potential of holding (HODLing) or selling them in the current market.
**Table Of Content**
- Bitcoin's Stellar Performance
- Ether (ETH)
- Solana (SOL)
- Binance Coin (BNB)
- BLUR
- Conclusion
- FAQs
**Bitcoin's Stellar Performance**
Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, has seen a remarkable increase in value, rising by 120% in 2023. This surge sets a benchmark for evaluating other cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin's growth is influenced by several factors, including the anticipation of a Bitcoin ETF and its upcoming fourth halving. These developments could further drive its demand and value.
The potential introduction of a Bitcoin ETF is particularly significant. It would allow a broader range of investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin without the complexities of direct cryptocurrency ownership. This development could lead to increased institutional investment and potentially stabilize Bitcoin's historically volatile price. Furthermore, the halving event, expected to occur in April, is a fundamental aspect of Bitcoin's design. It reduces the reward for mining new blocks, effectively limiting the supply of new bitcoins. This scarcity is a key driver of Bitcoin's value and has historically led to significant price increases.
However, Bitcoin's dominance and performance also raise questions about market saturation and the potential for continued growth. While Bitcoin remains a safe haven for many investors, its large market capitalization means that it may not offer the same growth potential as some smaller, emerging cryptocurrencies. Investors looking for high-growth opportunities may find these in altcoins, which, while riskier, offer the potential for higher returns.
**Ether (ETH)**
Ether, the native token of the Ethereum blockchain, has a different appeal compared to Bitcoin. While Bitcoin excels as a payment network, Ethereum's strength lies in its versatility as a platform for decentralized applications. Ether's growth has been modest compared to Bitcoin, with a 65% increase this year.
Ethereum's broader utility stems from its ability to support smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). These features have made it the backbone of various sectors, including decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The recent upgrade to Ethereum 2.0, transitioning to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, aims to address scalability and energy efficiency issues, potentially increasing its attractiveness to both developers and investors.
Despite these advancements, Ether's price has not seen the same explosive growth as Bitcoin. This could be due to the market's maturation and the increasing competition from other blockchain platforms. However, Ethereum's established position and ongoing development make it a strong contender for long-term growth. Investors may consider holding Ether as a bet on the continued expansion and innovation in the DeFi and NFT spaces, where Ethereum plays a central role.
**Solana (SOL)**
Solana, a blockchain platform seen as a competitor to Ethereum, has recovered remarkably from the impacts of the FTX collapse, with its value increasing by 313% this year. This growth is a testament to the resilience and potential of Solana as an investment.
Solana's key selling point is its high throughput and low transaction costs, making it an attractive platform for both developers and users. Its ability to process thousands of transactions per second outpaces Ethereum significantly, which has been a bottleneck for the latter. This technical superiority has led to increased adoption of Solana for various applications, including decentralized exchanges, gaming, and NFTs.
The rapid recovery of Solana's value post-FTX collapse indicates strong investor confidence and market support for the platform. It suggests that Solana has managed to dissociate itself from the negative sentiment surrounding FTX and is being recognized for its inherent technological strengths. For investors, Solana presents an opportunity to diversify into a high-potential blockchain platform that could capture significant market share in the future.
**Binance Coin (BNB)**
BNB, the native token of the Binance exchange, has faced significant challenges following legal issues with Binance’s CEO. These developments have led to a decrease in BNB's value, prompting considerations for selling the asset.
The legal troubles surrounding Binance and its CEO have raised concerns about the exchange's future and, by extension, the value of BNB. Binance Coin's utility is closely tied to the Binance ecosystem, being used for transaction fee discounts and participation in token sales. If regulatory actions lead to a decrease in Binance's user base or a change in its operational model, BNB could see a further decline in value.
However, it's also important to consider Binance's position as one of the largest and most influential cryptocurrency exchanges globally. The platform has a substantial user base and a wide array of services, including trading, staking, and a native blockchain, Binance Smart Chain. If Binance navigates through its legal challenges successfully, BNB could recover and potentially grow in value. Investors need to weigh the risks of regulatory impacts against the potential for Binance to continue playing a major role in the crypto ecosystem.
**BLUR**
BLUR, associated with the NFT marketplace Blur, has maintained a significant market capitalization despite a downturn in NFT trading. As the NFT market shows signs of a potential rebound, holding BLUR could be a strategic move for investors interested in the digital art and collectibles space.
The NFT market has experienced a significant cooldown from its peak in 2021, but it remains a sector with potential for innovation and growth. BLUR's association with the Blur marketplace positions it well within this niche. The marketplace has gained traction among NFT traders for its user-friendly interface and unique features, such as rewarding users with BLUR tokens based on their trading volume.
BLUR's utility within the Blur ecosystem could drive its value as the NFT market evolves. The token's use in governance and transaction fee payments on the platform aligns it closely with the marketplace's success. As new artists and collectors continue to enter the NFT space, platforms like Blur that offer a streamlined and rewarding experience could see increased usage, potentially boosting BLUR's value.
Investors considering BLUR should monitor the broader NFT market trends and Blur's position within it. While the NFT market is known for its volatility, it also offers unique opportunities for growth, especially in niches that are innovating and capturing user interest.
**Conclusion**
The cryptocurrency market is diverse and constantly evolving. While Bitcoin continues to be a strong performer, other cryptocurrencies offer varied investment opportunities. Investors should consider their risk tolerance, market trends, and the unique attributes of each cryptocurrency when making decisions. Whether to HODL or sell depends on individual investment goals and the ever-changing landscape of the crypto world. Diversification and staying informed are key to navigating this dynamic market successfully.
**FAQs**
**Is it better to invest in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies?**
It depends on your investment goals and risk tolerance. Bitcoin is more established but may offer lower growth potential compared to some emerging altcoins. Diversifying your portfolio with a mix of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies might be a balanced approach.
**What makes Ether a good investment option?**
Ether is the native token of the Ethereum blockchain, known for its versatility in supporting smart contracts and decentralized applications. Its ongoing development and central role in the DeFi and NFT sectors make it a strong contender for long-term growth.
**Why is Solana considered a rising competitor in the crypto market?**
Solana offers high transaction speeds and low costs, making it an attractive platform for developers and users. Its rapid recovery post-FTX collapse indicates strong market support and potential for significant market share in the future.
**What are the risks associated with investing in Binance Coin (BNB)?**
BNB faces risks due to legal issues surrounding Binance and its CEO. Its value is closely tied to the Binance ecosystem, so any negative impact on the exchange could affect BNB's value.
**Is investing in BLUR a good strategy?**
Investing in BLUR could be a strategic move if you're interested in the NFT market. As the native token of the Blur NFT marketplace, its value may grow with the platform's success in the evolving NFT space.
**How important is diversification in cryptocurrency investment?**
Diversification is crucial in managing risk in the volatile cryptocurrency market. It involves spreading your investment across different assets to reduce the impact of any single asset's performance on your overall portfolio.
**That's all for today**
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***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.***
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@ c69b71dc:426ba763
2025-02-05 13:44:29
# Nature shows us the way…
## …but what does humanity do?
### Let’s take a look at winter:
Trees shed their leaves. The plant’s energy withdraws so it can conserve strength and survive the cold season.
Wild animals follow the same pattern: In autumn, they build up reserves, grow thick fur, and retreat into their caves and thickets. Little movement, lots of sleep – a natural strategy for preserving energy. Animals that wouldn’t survive the cold migrate to warmer places to spend the winter.
#### And what does humanity do?
We eat just as much, move just as much (or little), sleep too little – just as we do all year round. Why? Because we can. Because our lives are no longer governed by the seasons. Refrigerators are full, supermarkets are always open, work calls, and daily routines remain unchanged. But this does not come without consequences.
During winter, we don’t allow ourselves to rest or retreat. We ignore our natural needs, overexerting ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. The result? An exhausted body and mind, discontent. The lymphatic system gets clogged, the body becomes overly acidic. Spring fatigue, low energy, depression, inflammation, and other ailments follow.
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### And then comes spring…
Nature awakens. Life begins anew everywhere. Buds sprout, blossoms unfold – pure energy in its most vibrant form! Everything that grows now serves cleansing and detoxification: wild herbs, fresh shoots, and buds – nature’s medicine for body and mind.
Wild animals follow this rhythm. They shed their winter coats, become more active, consume this natural medicine, mate, or give birth.
#### And what does humanity do?
We keep eating the same, sleeping too little, rushing through our daily routines. And then we wonder why we feel tired, sluggish, and drained. Why our thoughts feel heavy and our bodies weak. Why depression creeps up on us at this very moment. Did you know that the highest suicide rate is in spring?
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### Summer – the time of abundance
Nature gifts us with light, warmth, ripe fruits, berries, and fresh vegetables.
Animals spend most of their time outdoors, eating what nature provides and recharging their energy into every cell of their being.
#### And what does humanity do?
We keep working as always, consuming industrially processed foods, barely spending time outside. Too much artificial light, too little sleep. No wonder so many feel exhausted even in summer, drained, struggling with digestion and metabolism.
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### Autumn – preparing for retreat
Now is the time for harvest. Nuts, mushrooms, apples, pears, root vegetables, pumpkins, cabbage – all available to build up reserves.
Animals follow nature’s call, gathering, storing energy, preparing for the coming months. Chlorophyll in leaves breaks down, green turns to vibrant autumn colours.
#### And what does humanity do?
We ignore these signals. We stay trapped in the hamster wheel. We enter winter unprepared, weakened, prone to infections, drained by a lack of sunlight and an overly acidic system.
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### A cycle of exhaustion
And so the wheel keeps turning. Because we ignore nature. Because we no longer listen to our bodies. Because we have lost touch with our intuition. Because we have enslaved ourselves.
#### What can you do?
Not everyone is ready to leave their daily life behind, move to a warm country, and become self-sufficient. Many want to maintain their current lifestyle.
#### So how can we break the cycle?
Turn inward. Take time each day to listen to yourself. To truly feel what you need. To give space to your needs. Sense what drains you, what makes you sluggish. What brings you joy. Cleanse yourself – physically, mentally, emotionally!
> **********Do** more of what you miss, of what makes you happy and **fulfilled.** **Remember:** **You** **too** **are** **nature.**********
If all this sounds like a lot of inner work, I invite you to take first steps.
#### Ask yourself:
- Does your body need detoxification?
- Cleansing?
- More movement?
- Or is it time for emotional release?
*If you wish support, let me know and we will discuss an energy exchange that allows you to do something good for yourself in a sustainable way. Supporting you in reclaiming your energy and strength – for a year filled with vitality, self-respect, and self-love. 💛*
**
```
Spring is calling! It offers us a new chance.
Do you hear it? Yes, it’s calling you! Let’s go! 🚀
```
**
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@ 0b118e40:4edc09cb
2025-02-05 13:23:56
I’d like to see a world where a small artisan in Sarawak sells handcrafted goods directly to a boutique in Paris by bypassing currency exchange fluctuations, banking restrictions, and government-imposed tariffs. Or where a coffee farmer in Ethiopia sells beans straight to a roaster in Tokyo by sidestepping middlemen, exchange fees, and bureaucratic red tape.
In theory, free trade should enable this exchange smoothly, allowing businesses of all sizes to compete on a level playing field. But in reality, global trade is far from free. Policies, interventions, and economic theories are often designed to favor the powerful.
One particular theory that troubled me was Paul Krugman’s New Trade Theory (NTT), which argues that large businesses with economies of scale, supported by government-backed advantages, dominate international trade. This manifestation of the global marketplace favoring the giants, leaving smaller players like that Ethiopian coffee farmer out and struggling to compete, had led to trade hegemonies and trade wars.
After going through centuries of trade theories from Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations to Keynesian interventionism and Friedman’s libertarianism I found myself questioning:
Is Krugman right?
After all, in today’s world, global trade is controlled by a few key players. The U.S., China, Germany, Japan, and the U.K. alone contribute to 40% of global trade in goods and services. The 134 countries of the Global South are often forgotten.
Can Bitcoin offer a countermeasure to help globalize small businesses from anywhere in the world?
### Big players rule the game.
Let’s go a little deeper on Krugman’s New Trade Theory. He believes that trade is increasingly dominated by large firms because they benefit from economies of scale and brand power. While older trade theories assumed that countries traded based on resource advantages, NTT tries to explain why similar economies like the U.S. and Europe, engage in high levels of trade with each other, missing out on the obvious nuances of global alliances on geopolitical control and power.
Another aspect of Krugman’s theory is that large companies have a better chance of capturing market lead if they can benefit from unfair advantages through additional boosters in an imperfect market. In simple terms, power, status, and wealth are all you need to win.
So if you are a big company and you have status, government perks, and economic advantages, you can be the market leader. It’s like the Olympics of global trade, except some players get to use performance-enhancing drugs (subsidies, trade barriers, and financial influence) while others run clean. The race isn’t fair, but the rules say it’s fine.
So what is the blind spot here?
Well, other than the obvious disregard for merits and fair play, this model also assumes that only large corporations drive global trade, leaving small businesses to struggle against giants - despite the fact that small businesses often contribute significantly (sometimes up to 80%) to a country's revenue.
### Small business in a big economy
NTT was developed in the 1970s and 1980s when economies of scale and industrial advantages were the primary drivers of global trade. Kugman's argument assumes that large corporations, due to their financial and logistical dominance, will continue to dictate trade flows. But is this still true today?
Small businesses are establishing themselves in a globalized world, even without economies of scale, as opposed to Krugman's belief. The rise of e-commerce, digital platforms, and decentralized technologies has significantly altered the trade landscape, though many barriers remain.
In the past, small businesses struggled because they lacked access to global markets, but platforms like Alibaba, Amazon, and Shopify have reduced the barriers to entry, allowing even micro-businesses to participate in international trade.
When Jack Ma started Alibaba, businesses didn’t automatically sign up. His team traveled to small villages and industrial hubs to onboard businesses that had never considered global trade let alone understand digital interfaces, communicate in English, or use the internet. This grassroots effort revolutionized commerce, digitizing and globalizing it at an unprecedented scale.
Krugman’s model assumes that large firms control trade, but in reality, many countries thrive on small business-driven exports.
I’ve been to these areas in China and seen firsthand how they operate. These small manufacturers in China may not have the scale of a multinational, but they’re deeply integrated into global supply chains. And despite limited resources, they’re able to compete globally.
Other countries like Germany and Japan are great examples where ‘hidden champions' who are typically highly specialized small businesses, play a crucial role in global supply chains.
US is not there yet, but it has the opportunity to explore untapped potential of globalizing small businesses and compete in the global market to drive sustainable economic growth.
In fact with this model, ideally anyone is welcome. But there are many barriers that still exist in limiting the globalization of small businesses :
* High transaction costs.
* Complexity of currency exchange and exchange fees
* Complex regulations and banking restrictions
* Difficulty finding trustworthy international partners
Imagine a small business trying to import materials from multiple global suppliers. Not only is it hard to find them, as many countries still rely on government agencies, trade directories, and outdated methods for searching and connecting with suppliers, but when it comes to solidifying deals, the complications don’t stop. One supplier might require an international wire transfer, another may only accept Western Union, and a third insists on using a local bank with high fees and delays. Small businesses simply don’t have the same access to banking services and streamlined financial systems that large corporations do. The variations often depend on the specific banking practices and infrastructure of both parties.
To make matters even more complicated, small businesses don't have dedicated teams like large corporations. They run on minimal resources, managing everything themselves. One small error or delay can stall shipments, disrupt cash flow, and risk losing customers. Yet, global trade expects them to compete at the same level as industry giants, without the same financial infrastructure or support.
More often than not, small businesses are left to fend for themselves, struggling to overcome these challenges alone.
And that’s where Bitcoin changes everything.
### Can Bitcoin Create a True Free Market?
Unlike traditional banking systems, which are tied to government policies and centralized institutions, Bitcoin operates on a decentralized, borderless network. This enables direct transactions between buyers and sellers without intermediaries or excessive fees.
While Krugman’s theory explains why big corporations once held an advantage, it overlooks how decentralization removes trade bottlenecks, giving small businesses a real chance to compete globally.
In a Bitcoin-based global economy:
* No more currency conversion fees - Businesses trade freely across borders.
* No more reliance on banks - Transactions occur on a trustless system, reducing fraud and expensive intermediaries.
* No more cross-border delays - Payments are instantaneous, bypassing restrictive banking regulations.
For small businesses, this means fewer barriers to global trade. A textile producer in India could sell directly to a retailer in Canada without needing to figure out the bureaucratic maze of currency exchanges and trade laws. A graphic designer in Brazil could collaborate with a company in Australia and receive payment instantly without relying on high-fee banking systems. A shea butter producer in Kenya could sell organic products directly to small skincare manufacturers in the U.S., bypassing middlemen and avoiding international shipping delays.
Bitcoin removes middlemen, slashes costs, and levels the playing field, not by government intervention, but by eliminating artificial barriers altogether.
### The Challenges and the Future
Bitcoin isn’t a perfect solution, and we know that. Scalability, price volatility, and regulatory pushback remain major hurdles.
Currently, stablecoins are attempting to integrate into the Bitcoin Layer 2 network, which could potentially distract from Bitcoin's intended role as a global decentralized medium of exchange. Some are pushing for trade to happen through currency-pegged, centralized coins, which risks undermining Bitcoin's strong push toward free trade and decentralization.
Governments and banks resist decentralization because it threatens their control over money flows.
However, the concept of Bitcoin as a medium of exchange is already taking root. Leaders and developers are dedicating their legacies to building this system for a truly global community. El Salvador’s Bitcoin experiment has shown both the potential and the obstacles of a Bitcoin-driven economy with many lessons to learn from. Block Inc’s innovations have expanded into strengthening Bitcoin’s role as a decentralized medium globally, particularly through decentralized mining benefits and commercialized cold wallets.
Nostr has been very successful in seeing growth in these domains as well. It is slow but it's taking the right steps towards simplifying Bitcoin commerce adoption through zaps.
However the million-dollar question remains. If Bitcoin removes trade barriers, will small businesses adopt it?
History suggests yes but with the right approach. Just as Jack Ma went door to door convincing small businesses to embrace e-commerce, a similar effort is needed for Bitcoin adoption.
With Bitcoin, global trade can become digitized, commercialized, and pain-free, but only if small businesses understand how to use it. More importantly, it disrupts trade hegemony and creates a more equitable world that everyone can be part of.
A challenge I foresee beyond technology, is education. Initiatives that focus on simple onboarding, low-cost adoption, and real-world use cases can drive Bitcoin-powered trade forward. There are many non-tech Bitcoin enthusiasts who want to contribute to the Bitcoin ecosystem and would love to take on educator roles. Once the infrastructure and understanding around Bitcoin become more conceptualized, these folks could play a strong role in spreading awareness and adoption.
If Bitcoin is introduced strategically, not as a speculative asset but as an international trade enabler through its medium of exchange, it could reshape global commerce just as e-commerce once did. The only difference is that this time, trade is truly borderless, trustless, and not controlled by financial intermediaries.
Krugman’s New Trade Theory remains useful in explaining how economies of scale shape trade. But it fails to account for decentralized digital economies, where small businesses can bypass the old rules of power and privilege.
If Bitcoin achieves mainstream adoption, we may finally see a world where trade is truly free, where merit, not governments or middlemen, determines success.
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@ c8383d81:f9139549
2025-02-05 13:06:05
**My own stats on what I’ve done over the weekend:**
- Spoke to +100 developers, it was great seeing a couple of familiar Flemish faces and meeting some new ones but overall the crowd was extremely diverse.
- Ended up doing a short interview promoting the protocol and ended up going to 0 talks.
- Tried to evangelize by going booth by booth to distribute a Nostr flyer to other FOSDEM projects, with the hope that they would broadcast the info towards their SOME person to add Nostr on their list or to build out a library for the languages that were present ( This was a fairly slow approach )
- Kept it to Nostr protocol 95% of the time, the Bitcoin narrative is not always a good time to push and as a side note I’ve met more Monero users than in the last 5 years.
- Was able to convince some engineers to look into the #soveng endeavor.
**Small overview from the most common questions:**
- They have heard about Nostr but are not sure of the details. ( mostly through the bitcoin community )
- What is the difference with ActivityPub, Mastodon, Fediverse ?
- IOT developers, so questions regarding MQTT & Meshtastic integrations ?
- Current state of MLS on Nostr ?
- What are the current biggest clients / apps build on Nostr ?
- Will jack still give a talk ?
**Things we could improve:**
- Bring more stickers like loads more,
- Bring T-shirts, Pins… could be a good way to fund these adventures instead of raising funds.
( Most projects where selling something to help raise funds for projects )
- Almost no onboarding / client installs.
- Compared to the Nostr booth at BTC Amsterdam not a single person asked if they could charge their phone.
**Personal Note:**
The last time I visited was roughly 13 years ago and me being a little more seasoned I just loved the fact that I was able to pay some support to the open source projects I’ve been using for years ( homebrew, modzilla, Free BSD,.. ) and see the amazing diverse crowd that is the open source Movement 🧡
**Al final shoutout to our great pirate crew 🏴☠️:**
The Dutch Guard ( nostr:npub1qe3e5wrvnsgpggtkytxteaqfprz0rgxr8c3l34kk3a9t7e2l3acslezefe & nostr:npub1l77twp5l02jadkcjn6eeulv2j7y5vmf9tf3hhtq7h7rp0vzhgpzqz0swft ) and a adrenaline fueled nostr:npub1t6jxfqz9hv0lygn9thwndekuahwyxkgvycyscjrtauuw73gd5k7sqvksrw , nostr:npub1rfw075gc6pc693w5v568xw4mnu7umlzpkfxmqye0cgxm7qw8tauqfck3t8 and nostr:npub1r30l8j4vmppvq8w23umcyvd3vct4zmfpfkn4c7h2h057rmlfcrmq9xt9ma amazing finally meeting you IRL after close to 2 years since the Yakihonne hackathon 😀
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@ a7bbc310:fe7b7be3
2025-02-05 12:20:59
In 2018 I started doing film photography. I asked myself what could I do that was unique. So, I tried taking picture at local gig venues. I’d look around and everyone was using digital cameras. I had a limited number of shots I could take, inconsistent lighting at different venues but some delayed gratification of not knowing how the images would turn out until I developed them. I’d come home late from a show and be up until the early hours developing and scanning the images. 2020 put a stop to that. It’s something I’d like to start again. I’ll be sharing some of my favourite images I from my badly categorised/labled folders.
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Artist in photo is called Conner Youngblood. It’s been interesting to listen to his most recent projects (Cascades, Cascading, Cascadingly) to compare to his earlier ones (Australia)
Australia is a stripped back, couple guitars, vox and drums. Most recent has a few more vocal effects and electronica sounds. A comparison I would make would be Bon Iver’s - Emma with their 3rd album 22, a million.
As a when I arrange the files on my HD, I’ll be share a few more band photos.
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@ 5e13e5d5:217fe898
2025-02-05 11:30:01
<p>With the rapid development of science and technology, communication technology has penetrated into all aspects of our lives, but the accompanying security risks cannot be ignored. As an effective technical means, signal jamming technology has gradually attracted people's attention in the field of public security in recent years. This article will explore the application of <a href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/">signal jammer</a> in public security and its potential impact.</p>
<h2> Basic concept of signal jammer</h2>
<p>Signal jammer, as the name suggests, is a device used to interfere with or block signals of a specific frequency. By emitting electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency, signal jammers can effectively shield or weaken the reception of certain wireless signals, thereby preventing unnecessary information transmission. Signal jammers have a wide range of application scenarios, from countermeasures in the military field to security protection in the civilian field.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/t-us-08-6-high-power-wi-fi-blocker-for-classroom/"><img src="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/1-1-300x293.jpg" alt="Simple to use iPhone Cell Phone Jammer for Classroom" width="450"/></a></p>
<h3> Application in public security</h3>
<h4> 1. Preventing terrorist attacks</h4>
<p>In some important public places, such as airports, stadiums, and large conferences, signal jammers can be used to prevent terrorists from remotely detonating bombs through mobile phones and other devices. Such devices can create a "jamming area" in a critical area, making communications related to explosive devices impossible, thereby effectively reducing the risk of terrorist attacks.</p>
<p><a title="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/cell-phone-jammer-blocker-for-gsm-5g/" href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/cell-phone-jammer-blocker-for-gsm-5g/">https://www.thejammerblocker.com/cell-phone-jammer-blocker-for-gsm-5g/</a></p>
<h4> 2. Maintaining public order</h4>
<p>In some special cases, such as demonstrations or large gatherings, in order to prevent criminals from using mobile phones to organize or incite, law enforcement agencies can choose to use signal jammers moderately. By interfering with the communication signals at the scene, the organization ability of criminals can be effectively weakened, thereby maintaining public order.</p>
<h4> 3. Criminal investigation</h4>
<p>During criminal investigations, the police sometimes need to monitor certain targets. Signal jammers can be used to block the communication between suspects and the outside world, so as to further obtain evidence or make arrests. However, this method must be carried out within the scope permitted by law to avoid infringing personal privacy.</p>
<h4> 4. Security precautions</h4>
<p>In some special places, such as prisons and important laboratories, <a href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/gps-jammer-car-tracker-blocker/">gps blocker</a> can prevent jailbreaks or leaks. By interfering with mobile phone signals, prisoners can be effectively prevented from contacting the outside world and ensuring the safety of the place.</p>
<h3> Potential impacts and legal ethical issues</h3>
<p>Although signal jammers have many applications in public safety, their use also faces some potential impacts and legal ethical issues. First, the use of signal jammers may infringe on personal freedom of communication. Interference with citizens' mobile phone signals may affect their ability to seek help in an emergency. Secondly, if the jammer is abused by criminals, it may lead to social chaos. Therefore, when using <a href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/drone-uavs-jammers-blockers/">drone jamming device</a>, relevant departments should formulate strict usage specifications and legal frameworks to protect the legitimate rights and interests of citizens.</p>
<h3> Conclusion</h3>
<p>In summary, as an emerging public safety technology, <a href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/wifi-bluetooth-camera-jammer-blocker/">bluetooth blocker</a> have important application value in preventing terrorist attacks, maintaining public order and criminal investigation. However, how to maintain personal privacy and freedom of communication while ensuring public safety is a question worth pondering. In the future, with the further development of science and technology, the application of signal jammers in public safety will become more and more common, but we must be vigilant about its potential impact and use this technology reasonably and legally.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.thejammerblocker.com/dj-x5-military-grade-signal-jammer-device-5-antennas/">https://www.thejammerblocker.com/dj-x5-military-grade-signal-jammer-device-5-antennas/</a></p>
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-05 07:29:27
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/876357
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@ 3c7dc2c5:805642a8
2025-02-05 07:02:42
## 🧠Quote(s) of the week:
Old model:
-You work for money.
-They print it.
-You save your money.
-They devalue it.
-You invest your money.
-They manipulate it.
New model:
-You save in Bitcoin.
-There’s nothing they can do about it.
## 🧡Bitcoin news🧡
Before we start some extra info to get you focused.
1 BTC is unreachable for the majority.
The aspiration used to be 6.15. Now it's 0.1.
'Now who owns Bitcoin?
'The Answer Might Surprise You.
👉🏽Bitcoin is often misunderstood. Some think it’s controlled by a handful of institutions, others believe governments secretly hoard it. The reality? Bitcoin ownership is diverse and widely distributed across individuals, businesses, funds, and even governments.
👉🏽57% of Bitcoin is held by individuals. From everyday savers to long-term believers, Bitcoin’s largest share is in the hands of the people.
👉🏽4% belongs to businesses. Companies are increasingly adding BTC to their treasuries, recognizing its role as digital gold.
👉🏽5% is held by funds and ETFs. Bitcoin is being adopted by the financial system, providing new ways for institutions and retail investors to gain exposure.
👉🏽Governments own 2% to 3%. Whether through seized BTC or strategic holdings where states already acknowledged Bitcoin’s value.
👉🏽Around 18% is estimated to be lost forever. This actually makes Bitcoin even scarcer than its 21 million cap suggests.
👉🏽Miners and yet-to-be-mined Bitcoin represent the rest. This small remaining fraction coupled with a fixed supply means competition for mining remaining bitcoins will only increase over time.
This distribution is one of the many reasons why Bitcoin is unique. Not only there is no single entity that controls it (no government or bank can print more of it), but also its distribution among the population is more fairly distributed than for any other monetary asset.
Bitcoin is owned by those who understand its value, regardless of nationality, religion, skin color, political affiliation, or beliefs. Bitcoin is for everyone.' -Thomas Jeegers
[](https://i.ibb.co/5gJH2pLk/Gi-XWUx0-W8-AAcp84.jpg)
On the 28th of January:
➡️European Squash Federation adopts Bitcoin for its treasury.
➡️Binance under investigation for money laundering, tax fraud, and drug trafficking in France - Reuters
➡️'Metaplanet will issue 21 million new stock warrants with a 0% discount rate, raising approximately $870 million to fund additional Bitcoin purchases. This marks the largest-ever fundraising for Bitcoin purchases in the history of the Asian stock market.' -Metaplanet
➡️U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis received a framed Bitcoin block from Marathon’s Jayson Browder to mark her role as the new chair of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on Digital Assets. MARA Pool mined the block by calculating 1,476,600,000,000,000,000,000 Bitcoin hashes within 46 seconds.
➡️'Fidelity is now bigger than Greyscale:
1. BlackRock ETF: 576k BTC
2. Fidelity ETF: 205k BTC
3. Greyscale ETF: 202k BTC' -Bitcoin for Freedom
➡️'Brazil’s state-owned oil and gas company Petrobras is reportedly assessing getting into Bitcoin mining. This is a new chapter for the company and shows how traditional industries are adapting to the digital world.
Petrobras, one of the largest and most profitable oil companies in the world, is going to use excess natural gas produced during the oil extraction process to power Bitcoin mining.
This will reduce energy waste and methane emissions, and create a new revenue stream for the company.' -Bitcoin News
➡️Last week, the 613-foot smokestack of the former Somerset Generating Station in Niagara County, New York was demolished. The site, now Tera Wulf Inc.’s Lake Mariner Data, will focus on Bitcoin mining and AI processing powered by hydroelectric energy
➡️'For the first time ever in Bitcoin's 16-year history, the epoch-over-epoch (EOE) growth has fallen below +100%. Pack it up, fellas.'- Wicked
[](https://i.ibb.co/sJFgh93r/Gi-Zncd-PXk-AAuh.jpg)
On the 29th of January:
➡️Czech central bank Governor Ales Michl said he would propose a plan to include bitcoin in the country’s official reserves, the Financial Times reported.
Michl statement: 'Czech National Bank’s goal is price stability. When we took office in July 2022, inflation was 17.5%. We brought it down to target. We are also diversifying reserves—gradually increasing gold holdings from 0% to around 5% and planning for 30% in equities. An asset under consideration is Bitcoin. It currently has zero correlation to bonds and is an interesting asset for a large portfolio. Worth considering. Right now, it’s only at the stage of analysis and discussion. The Bank Board decides, and no decision is imminent. Thoughtful analysis is needed.
Bitcoin has significant volatility, which makes it harder to take advantage of its current low correlation with other assets. That’s why I will ask our team on Thursday to further assess Bitcoin’s potential role in our reserves. Nothing more, nothing less.
The article is very accurate, including my statement that Bitcoin could one day be worth either zero or a huge amount. At our meeting on Thursday, after discussing a document on international reserve management in 2024, the Bank Board of the Czech National Bank (CNB) approved a proposal to analyze the options for investing in additional asset classes.
The central bank has been increasingly diversifying its investments over the last two years as part of its reserve management strategy. At the proposal of Governor Aleš Michl, the CNB is to assess whether it would be appropriate in terms of diversification and return to include other asset classes in the reserves as well.
Based on the results of the analysis, the Bank Board will then decide how to proceed further. No changes will be implemented in this area until then. Any changes in the reserve portfolios will be disclosed in the quarterly information on the CNB’s international reserves and the CNB’s annual report.'
The head of a central bank tweeting about potentially allocating to Bitcoin was not on my 2025 bingo card.
➡️Jerome Powell: "Banks are perfectly able to serve crypto customers."
I love how everyone is recognizing and acknowledging Bitcoin now.
Banks can custody Bitcoin on behalf of clients, create structured Bitcoin financial products, and allow customers to buy Bitcoin.
Even Powell isn't badmouthing it anymore.
On the 29th of January:
➡️'It is utterly remarkable that BTC Dominance is at 62% considering it's really from 45% to 62% has coincided with massive issuance of Memecoins
This really is a different market, a schism between Bitcoin and Crypto.' - Steven Lubka
➡️Illinois State Rep. has introduced a bill to establish a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve.
➡️The decoupling of Bitcoin & Crypto Market Caps:
[](https://i.ibb.co/svqCWGcM/Gifa-ERa-XUAA80-A8.jpg)
ETH losing 50% of its value vs. BTC in the past 11 months explains the lack of enthusiasm about $100K BTC. Mitchell Hodl: '2 years ago if you sold 1 ETH and bought Bitcoin, you would have acquired ~.07 BTC. Today if you sell 1 ETH and buy Bitcoin, you’ll acquire .03 BTC.
Those “toxic maximalists” were right.
If it’s not BTC, it’s dogshit.'
On the 3rd of February Bitcoin dominance soared over 64%. Four-year high. Massively bullish. Despite the hundreds of billions of dollars invested in crypto, Bitcoin dominance has just tagged Nov 2017 levels. At 73%, it unwinds back to the pre-ICO era.
'The truth is, there is no more alt season.
The sooner you accept that, the sooner you can still build up a meaningful Bitcoin position.
You're not too late.
You're among the first 1-2% of people to get into bitcoin.
It's time to leave this chapter of false narratives behind and get on board with something real and meaningful.' - Sam Wouters
If you're trying to outperform Bitcoin with an "alt", just remember that you're mixing with a crowd that is simply trying to beat you to the exit.
➡️Senator Bob Menendez who fought against El Salvador adopting Bitcoin was just sentenced to 11 years in prison for taking bribes in Gold and Cash! Classic!
➡️INDIANA Bitcoin Bill!
HB 1322 would allow 'the Hoosier state' to invest state retirement funds in Bitcoin ETFs.
Nation-states, States, Companies & Individuals are clamoring to acquire Bitcoin.
[](https://i.ibb.co/qYRcVvLM/Gioi-YI-XYAAw-XP2.jpg)
On the 30th of January:
➡️World's largest stablecoin Tether is now minting its stablecoin on the Bitcoin Lightning Network.
➡️ECB chief Lagarde says she "is confident" that Bitcoin will not end up in the EU central bank reserves.
[Here ](https://x.com/pete_rizzo_/status/1885293996412383720) is the video of how she is explaining that Bitcoin isn’t liquid, secure, or safe for EU reserves.
Bitcoin trades 24/7—one of the most liquid markets in the world.
Its code secures $2T+ in wealth, never hacked.
It’s the most secure computer code ever written.
Remember what she said on Bitcoin a while ago: 'It's a matter that needs to be agreed at a global level. If there is an escape, that escape will be used.'
Oh one more: "People are happier to have a job than to have their savings protected." — Christine Lagarde, 10/30/2019
Christine Lagarde has been convicted of more crimes than the average Bitcoin user. Oh well, the more that central banks manipulate the money, the more people will want sound money, and the more people will turn to Bitcoin. Checkmate.
[](https://i.ibb.co/svsv0vZB/Gik-U1-Vp-W8-AA1-Q-V.jpg)
➡️Norway's sovereign wealth fund's indirect Bitcoin exposure has increased by 153% in the past year, reaching 3,821 BTC.
Since 2020, its Bitcoin holdings have grown from 796 BTC to over 3,821 BTC, now valued at over € 350M.
➡️'A $400 home Bitcoin miner just mined a block worth OVER $330,000.
They beat ONCE IN A LIFETIME odds.' -Pete Rizzo
On the 31st of January:
➡️'For the first time in nearly 2 years, the Bitcoin network is running out of pending transactions to fill up new blocks.
It's looking like it could happen within a few hours (only 6 block backlog). This is nothing to worry about.
But if you self-custody bitcoin, it's a great time to learn about UTXOs and consolidate the ones in your wallet, which could save you thousands of dollars worth of bitcoin in the long term.' - Tom Honzik
Learn more here: https://unchained.com/blog/too-many-bitcoin-utxos
➡️MicroStrategy will have up to $584m to buy more Bitcoin after its stock offering was oversubscribed by nearly 3X, increasing from 2.5M shares to 7.3M priced at $80 each.
➡️El Salvador removes Bitcoin's legal tender status and makes its acceptance voluntary, in line with IMF requirements for a $1.4B credit line.
Francis Pouliot: 'Bukele bends the knee to IMF and officially abandons the original Bitcoin law that had caused Bitcoiners to move and invest there in the first place... exactly at the same time as the Bitcoin conference in El Salvador attracting Bitcoiners from all over the world.'
➡️The 2nd time this week another solo Bitcoin miner mined a $300.000 block.
On the 1st of February:
➡️'For the past three consecutive months, the Bitcoin network has processed more than $2 trillion worth of transactions.
That's a lot of utility!' -Pierre Rochard
➡️Retail are capitulating their Bitcoin, whilst whales are buying.
Transfer of wealth from the weak hands to the strong hands. Retail investors are reducing exposure, while large investors (whales) are capitalizing on this opportunity to accumulate. Historically, this divergence aligns with accumulation phases before price appreciation.
➡️So far, so good: Spot bitcoin ETFs pulled in $4.94 billion in January, which annualizes to ~$59 billion.
For context: In all of 2024, they brought in $35.2 billion.
On the 3rd of February:
➡️Ethereum just fell -37% in 60 hours since the trade war headlines mid-day on Friday.
➡️$2B liquidated in 24 hours. That’s a record. More than the COVID dump. More than the FTX collapse.
➡️Trump signs an executive order to create a sovereign wealth fund spearheaded by Howard Lutnick and Scott Bessent. Both are avowedly pro-Bitcoin.
➡️New Record Bitcoin Network Computer Hashrate:
800,000,000,000,000,000,000x per second
➡️OKLAHOMA BITCOIN BILL
SB 315 allows state employees (and all OK residents) to receive payments in Bitcoin.
The bill has progressed to Committee consideration.
➡️'Solid, data-driven reporting on why Bitcoin mining is increasingly regarded among energy experts, academics, and those in the environmental movement as a net positive to the environment across several fronts.' - Daniel Batten on the Mara report.
https://x.com/MARAHoldings/status/1880063353168753133
➡️$562m leveraged Bitcoin positions liquidated as the price plunged as low as $91,359 this morning.
## 💸Traditional Finance / Macro:
On the 27th of January:
👉🏽Over $787 billion was wiped out from the US stock market today.
On the 28th of January:
👉🏽'Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Oracle's CapEx are expected to reach a record $274 billion this year.
This would be more than DOUBLE the CapEx posted in 2021 and $127 billion more than in 2023.
Amazon, and Microsoft, are expected to spend $86 billion and $63 billion, respectively.
Spending has accelerated as Big Tech invests in more advanced chips from firms like Nvidia, and large data centers to store them.
The big question is whether China’s DeepSeek will disrupt this trend.
Is AI spending out of control?' -TKL
But meanwhile:
'Magnificent 7 stocks have underperformed the market in 2025:
The Magnificent 7 stocks are down -1.4% while the S&P 500 itself is up ~2.9%.
Meanwhile, the remaining 493 stocks in the S&P 500 have gained +6.6%.
To put this into perspective, in 2024, the Magnificent 7 stocks returned +67.4% while the remaining 493 firms gained just +5.0%.' -TKL
👉🏽MicroStratey today announced the launch of STRK a new convertible preferred stock offering available to institutional investors & select retail investors. To view the investor presentation video, learn more about participating, & access key details, click [here](https://www.microstrategy.com/press/microstrategy-announces-proposed-strk-preferred-stock-offering_01-27-2025).
👉🏽Microsoft shares closed down 6.2% on the worst day since 2022. If only they had listened to Saylor's 3-minute Bitcoin pitch.
## 🏦Banks:
👉🏽Global central banks now hold more Gold than at any point in the past 45 years. Something is brewing.
## 🌎Macro/Geopolitics:
On the 28th of January:
👉🏽'Positions Europe to play a leading role globally.' Inhale, exhale! The EU bureaucrats are stifling innovation.
The EU developed the AI Act instead of AI. To paraphrase Geoffrey Howe, the EU is like a man who knows 364 ways of making love but doesn’t know any women.
[](https://i.ibb.co/BVzLxvKp/Gi-Yc-C-x-Ws-AA1eme.jpg)
Europe also innovated with 'smart waste bins'. The sad this is, I couldn't even refute that now. What groundbreaking future technology has Europe produced in the last 30, 40 50 years?
Europe is done. No Bitcoin, no AI, no tech, no nothing. Regulation fees are becoming their only source of revenue. Wrong side of history, they'll be left behind.
👉🏽Jeroen Blokland: 'China has literally bought its 5% growth target, issuing and swapping tons of DEBT!
China's budget deficit is expected to have hit a whopping 7.1% of GDP in 2024.
Why do you think China's 10-year yield is at 1.60%?
In a world full of debt, invest in scarce assets!'
👉🏽The following is from last week's Weekly Recap: 'The rich are getting richer faster than ever before: US household net worth has risen ~$56 TRILLION since Q1 2020 and hit a record $160 trillion in Q3 2024. Currently, the top 10% own $111 trillion of all wealth, accounting for 69% of the total. The top 0.1% alone own a massive $22 trillion, reflecting 14% of household net worth. On the other hand, the bottom 50% holds just $3.9 trillion, or 2.4% of wealth. This comes as the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100 have risen 128% and 166% since Q1 2020 while national home prices have surged ~50%. The wealth gap is growing.' -TKL
Just to elaborate on that, in 1990 the wealth gap between the top 1% and the bottom 50% was $3 trillion.
Incredible chart!
[](https://i.ibb.co/60ckYL3V/Gi-Yafk7-W8-AAy-Giw.jpg)
Now the gap is $40 trillion. Ask yourself why. Has there been more or less government since 1990? Is there more or less money printing?
Cantillion things I guess, and oh don't forget if it was adjusted for inflation it would be even worse, the red line would be pointed down.
👉🏽Ursula von der Leyen: " Dear Christine, dear ECB Governing Council
Europe’s competitiveness is our shared interest—and an urgent challenge.
The Savings and Investments Union must become a reality. It is so needed.
Looking forward to our great work together also in this new mandate."
You mean: "We will grab and redistribute your savings."
These people (one convicted criminal - Lagarde) are so out of touch with reality.
And a new mandate? Are you kidding me?
👉🏽Jeroen Blokland: 'Germany is heading for something 'unique!'
BDI, which calls itself 'The Voice of German Industry,' expects the German economy to shrink again in 2025.
That would mean three consecutive years of GDP decline.
How do German politicians explain this, and how does this reconcile with the re-election of that other German politician, Ursula von der Leyen?'
On the 29th of January:
👉🏽'SUMMARY OF FED DECISION (1/29/2025):
1. Fed leaves rates unchanged, pausing the "Fed Pivot"
2. The decision to halt cuts was a unanimous 12-0 vote
3. Fed says inflation "remains somewhat elevated"
4. The Fed says "Unemployment has stabilized at a low level"
5. Statement on progress toward 2% inflation removed
6. The Fed seems to be aware disinflation has stalled
The battle against inflation continues in 2025.' -TKL
👉🏽Americans spent over $113 billion on lottery tickets last year, which is more than they spent on movies, books, concerts, and sports tickets - combined.
James Lavish: 'Central Banks have turned otherwise normal people into desperate gamblers trying to keep up with the cost of everything.'
👉🏽Gold prices surge to a new all-time high of $2840/oz. Gold prices are now up +40% in 12 months as the US Dollar and interest rates are up sharply.
This has never happened in history. Gold is telling us something.' -TKL
Yes, let me use the following quote by Lawrence Lepard: 'Analog sound money saying sovereign debt crisis inbound.'
But remember, Gold hit an ATH in USD but an ATL in Bitcoin. Fiat money is absolute garbage and Bitcoin is superior to both.
On the 30th of January:
👉🏽The ECB, Christine Lagarde: 'We’re redesigning euro banknotes! Our Governing Council has selected motifs based on our two chosen themes, “European culture” and “Rivers and birds”. We’ll be launching a design contest later this year to help us select the final designs in 2026.'
[](https://i.ibb.co/67GBJrhm/Gin-UBzd-XYAAj-Kb-V.jpg)
On the 31st of January:
👉🏽Germany's unemployment rate hits its highest level in almost 10 years.
The unemployment rate spiked by 0.4% to 6.4%.
👉🏽December PCE inflation, the Fed's preferred inflation measure, RISES to 2.6%, in line with expectations of 2.6%.
Core PCE inflation was 2.8%, in line with expectations of 2.8%.
PCE inflation is now at its highest level since May 2024.
On the 1st of February:
👉🏽 The DOJ just argued that your money isn’t actually property—so the government can take it at will. If that sounds insane, it’s because it is. A federal court will decide if this madness stands. https://reason.com/2025/01/31/the-government-says-money-isnt-property-so-it-can-take-yours/
The money in your bank isn’t actually yours. Only Bitcoin can fix this. Still think you don't need Bitcoin?
## 🎁If you have made it this far I would like to give you a little gift:
++++
Preston Pysh podcast with Lawrence Lepard:
'Exploring the roots of broken money, the moral case for sound currency, and how Bitcoin offers hope for a decentralized financial future.'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxB8M8q8hQ8
Credit: I have used multiple sources!
My savings account: Bitcoin The tool I recommend for setting up a Bitcoin savings plan: PocketBitcoin especially suited for beginners or people who want to invest in Bitcoin with an automated investment plan once a week or monthly. Use the code BITCOINFRIDAY
Get your Bitcoin out of exchanges. Save them on a hardware wallet, run your own node...be your own bank. Not your keys, not your coins. It's that simple.⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀⠀
Do you think this post is helpful to you? If so, please share it and support my work with a zap.
▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃
⭐ Many thanks⭐
Felipe - Bitcoin Friday!
▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃
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@ 0b118e40:4edc09cb
2025-02-05 06:05:33
During tough economic times, governments have to decide if they should open markets to global trade or protect local businesses with tariffs. The United States has swung between these two strategies, and history shows that the results are never straightforward
Just days ago, President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. He framed these tariffs (25% on most Canadian goods, 10% on Canadian energy, 25% on Mexican imports, and 10% on Chinese imports) as a way to protect American industries.
But will they actually help, or could they backfire?
### A History of U.S. Tariffs
Many have asked if countries will retaliate against the US. They can and they have. Once upon a time, 60 countries were so pissed off at the US, they retaliated at one go and crushed US dominance over trade.
This was during the Great Depression era in the 1930s when the government passed the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, placing high taxes on over 20,000 foreign goods. The goal was to protect American jobs, especially American farmers and manufacturers, but it backfired so badly.
Over 60 countries, including Canada, France, and Germany, retaliated by imposing their own tariffs. By 1933, US imports and exports both dropped significantly over 60%, and unemployment rose to 25%.
After President Franklin Roosevelt came to office, he implemented the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934 to reverse these policies, calming the world down and reviving trade again.
### The economist history of protectionism
The idea of shielding local businesses with tariffs isn’t new or recent. It's been around for a few centuries. In the 16th to 18th centuries, mercantilism encouraged countries to limit imports and boost exports.
In the 18th century, Adam Smith, in The Wealth of Nations, argued that free trade allows nations to specialize in what they do best countering protectionism policies. Friedrich List later challenged Smith's view by stating that developing countries need some protection to grow their “infant” industries which is a belief that still influences many governments today.
But how often do governments truly support startups and new small businesses in ways that create real growth, rather than allowing funds to trickle down to large corporations instead?
In modern times, John Maynard Keynes supported government intervention during economic downturns, while Milton Friedman championed free trade and minimal state interference.
Paul Krugman argued that limited protectionism can help large industries by providing them unfair advantages to become global market leaders. I have deep reservations about Krugman’s take, particularly on its impact or lack thereof in globalizing small businesses.
The debate between free trade and protectionism has existed for centuries. What’s clear is that there is no one-size-fits-all model to this.
### The Political Debate
Both the left and right have used tariffs but for different reasons. The right supports tariffs to protect jobs and industries, while the left uses them to prevent multinational corporations from exploiting cheap labor abroad.
Neoliberal policies favor free trade, arguing that competition drives efficiency and growth. In the US this gets a little bit confusing as liberals are tied to the left, and free trade is tied to libertarianism which the rights align closely with, yet at present right wing politicians push for protectionism which crosses the boundaries of free-trade.
There are also institutions like the WTO and IMF who advocate for open markets, but their policies often reflect political alliances and preferential treatment - so it depends on what you define as true 'free trade’.
### Who Really Benefits from Tariffs?
Most often, tariffs help capital-intensive industries like pharmaceuticals, tech, and defense, while hurting labor-intensive sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and construction.
This worsens inequality as big corporations will thrive, while small businesses and working-class people struggle with rising costs and fewer job opportunities.
I’ve been reading through international trade economics out of personal interest, I'll share some models below on why this is the case
#### 1. The Disruption of Natural Trade
Tariffs disrupt the natural flow of trade. The Heckscher-Ohlin model explains that countries export goods that match their resources like Canada’s natural resource energy or China’s labour intensive textile and electronics. When tariffs block this natural exchange, industries suffer.
A clear example was Europe’s energy crisis during the Russia-Ukraine war. By abruptly cutting themselves off from the supply of Russian energy, Europe scrambled to find alternative sources. In the end, it was the people who had to bear the brunt of skyrocketing prices of energy.
#### 2. Who wins and who loses?
The Stolper-Samuelson theorem helps us understand who benefits from tariffs and who loses. The idea behind it is that tariffs benefit capital-intensive industries, while labor-intensive sectors are hurt.
In the US, small manufacturing industries that rely on low-cost imports on intermediary parts from countries like China and Mexico will face rising costs, making their final goods too expensive and less competitive. This is similar to what happened to Argentina, where subsidies and devaluation of pesos contributed to cost-push inflation, making locally produced goods more expensive and less competitive globally.
This also reminded me of the decline of the US Rust Belt during the 1970s and 1980s, where the outsourcing of labour-intensive manufacturing jobs led to economic stagnation in many regions in the Midwest, while capital-intensive sectors flourished on the coasts. It resulted in significantly high income inequality that has not improved over the last 40 years.
Ultimately the cost of economic disruption is disproportionately borne by smaller businesses and low-skilled workers. At the end of the day, the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
#### 3. Delays in Economic Growth
The Rybczynski theorem suggests that economic growth depends on how efficiently nations reallocate their resources toward capital- or labor-intensive industries. But tariffs can distort this transition and progress.
In the 70s and 80s, the US steel industry had competition from Japan and Germany who modernized their production methods, making their steel more efficient and cost-effective. Instead of prioritizing innovation, many U.S. steel producers relied on tariffs and protectionist measures to shield themselves from foreign competition. This helped for a bit but over time, American steelmakers lost global market share as foreign competitors continued to produce better, cheaper steel. Other factors, such as aging infrastructure, and economic shifts toward a service-based economy, further contributed to the industry's decline.
A similar struggle is seen today with China’s high-tech ambitions. Tariffs on Chinese electronics and technology products limit access to key inputs, such as semiconductors and advanced robotics. While China continues its push for automation and AI-driven manufacturing, these trade barriers increase costs and disrupt supply chains, forcing China to accelerate its decoupling from Western markets. This shift could further strengthen alliances within BRICS, as China seeks alternative trade partnerships to reduce reliance on U.S.-controlled financial and technological ecosystems.
Will the current Tariff imposition backfire and isolate the US like it did a hundred years ago or 50 years ago? Is US risking it's position as a trusted economic leader? Only time would tell
### The impact of tariff on innovation - or lack thereof
While the short-term impacts of tariffs often include higher consumer prices and job losses, the long-term effects can be even more damaging, as they discourage innovation by increasing costs and reducing competition.
Some historical examples globally :
* Nigeria: Blocking import of rice opened up black market out of desperation to survive.
* Brazil: Protectionist car policies led to expensive, outdated vehicles.
* Malaysia’s Proton: Sheltered by tariffs and cronyism and failed to compete globally.
* India (before 1991): Over-regulation limited the industries, until economic reforms allowed for growth.
* Soviet Union during Cold War : Substandard products and minimal innovation due to the absence of foreign alternatives, yielding to economic stagnation.
On the flip side, Vietnam has significantly reduced protectionism policies by actively pursuing free trade agreements. This enabled it to become a key manufacturing hub. But Vietnam is not stopping there as it is actively pushing forward its capital-intensive growth by funding entrepreneurs.
### The Future of U.S. Tariffs
History has shown that tariffs rarely deliver their intended benefits without unintended consequences. While they may provide temporary relief, they often raise prices, shrink job opportunities, and weaken industries in the long run.
Without a clear strategy for innovation and industrial modernization, the U.S. risks repeating past mistakes of isolating itself from global trade rather than strengthening its economy.
At this point, only time will tell whether these tariffs will truly help Americans or will they, once again, make the rich richer and the poor poorer.
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@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-02-05 04:10:38
***Tree branches. 4' x 4' [Littleton, USA. 2016]***
---
#### Introduction
Platte captures a tranquil bend of the South Platte River, where the steady flow of water meets the rugged backdrop of Waterton Canyon. This lens offers a moment of respite, encouraging visitors to step away from the river’s busy recreational activities and focus on the quiet beauty of this secluded scene.
#### Site & Placement
Positioned on the west bank of the South Platte River, the lens directs attention to the water’s gentle curves and the canyon rising in the background. A bench placed 12 feet away provides the perfect spot for reflection, emphasizing the interplay of movement and stillness in the landscape.
#### Impermanence & Integration
The lens, constructed from branches and stone, mirrors the ever-changing nature of the river itself. As it stands, it frames a single moment within the flow of time, but its materials will soon be reclaimed by the earth, echoing the river’s constant reshaping of the land.
#### Reflection
Platte invites viewers to contemplate the river’s journey—its constancy in motion and its quiet persistence. The work becomes a metaphor for life’s flow, urging us to find beauty in the transient and the enduring alike.
---
## Photos
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---
#### More from the 'Earth Lens' Series:
[Earth Lens Series: Artist Statement + List of Works](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1731091744332/)
["Looking Glass" (Earth Lens 001)](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1736304563962/)
["Folsom" (Earth Lens 002)](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1737844073125/)
["Sanctuary" (Earth Lens 003)](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1731091744332/)
[COMING SOON: "Grandfather" (Earth Lens 005)](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1731091744332/)
[COMING SOON: "Chongming" (Earth Lens 006)](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1731091744332/)
---
#### More from Hes
[Portfolio](https://hesart.npub.pro)
[Online Store](https://plebeian.market/community/hes@nostrplebs.com/hesmart-ym3fcufdfz)
[Artist Statements](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/art/)
[Travel Guides](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/travel/)
[Photography](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/photography)
[Money](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/money)
[Tech](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/tech)
---
*All images are credit of Hes, but you are free to download and use for any purpose. If you find joy from my art, please feel free to send a zap. Enjoy life on a Bitcoin standard.*
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@ c43d6de3:a6583169
2025-02-05 02:46:10
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Right this moment, 5.52 billion pairs of hands are within arm’s reach of the internet.
Hands stretch across pillows, eagerly reaching for phones first thing in the morning. Fingertips tap at keyboards and swipe across glowing glass.
The world has never been so connected. Billions of conversations are happening every second.
Yet, humanity has never been so quiet.
Hotel lobbies, waiting rooms, train stations, and airports — places once buzzing with the chatter of strangers — now lie quieter than libraries. Most libraries don’t exist in the physical sense anymore.
Humanity Has Gone Mute.
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Small talk is disappearing. The tiniest thoughts are condensed into 280 characters to be posted on X, hoping to garner hearts, claps, zaps, or whatever gimmick social media platforms use to keep us tethered to their feeds. Instead of sharing these thoughts with the few souls occupying the same physical space as us, we broadcast them into the digital void.
Gone are the genuine, physical reactions — a smile, a laugh, maybe a headshake if a joke didn’t land.
Who needs small talk, right? Wasn’t it just that awkward thing people did before cellphones and the internet existed?
No. The silence is worse.
It’s the manifestation of relational decay.
That’s why people talked. People talked about the weather or about Mrs. Jones’ dog that always gets out. That’s what helped neighbors scale one another’s emotional fences and get to know one another. It was, and always will be, the first step to any meaningful relationship.
Today, small talk has been relegated to social feeds and forums. It’s easier to make a friend across the planet than to make one next door. People fall into the trap of chasing likes, followers, and fame, while their local connections — the ones critical to mental health and a sense of purpose — fade into the background.
Maybe I’m out of touch. Maybe I just don’t get out enough. But as a member of the Army Reserves, I’ve experienced something rare.
Once a month, I attend drill, and once a year, we’re sent on an annual training that can last up to thirty days. During those thirty days, we’re often shipped off to a place far from the internet. And in that time, something remarkable happens: small talk comes back to life.
It’s incredible to watch my fellow Soldiers connect.
The relationships we have before training versus after are night and day. And it all starts with small talk — simple jokes, shared gripes, and the mundane details that snowball into camaraderie.
When we’re forced to take that first step to avoid the boredom of silence, we discover one another’s existence. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the absence of convenience is what sparks true connection.
Small talk isn’t just filler. It’s the foundation of relationships. Maybe it’s time to put down the phone, look around, and say something — anything — to the person next to you.
While the world may feel quieter than ever, the potential for connection has never been stronger.
-----------
I want to show the world that life is a scroll riddled with ink. The marks will only ever be simple blots on the parchment unless you pause and perceive them for the characters they are.
Thank you for reading. If you liked this article let me know with a zap and share with friends you feel might enjoy it too!
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@ c43d6de3:a6583169
2025-02-05 02:37:14
## Reflection on Growth and Gratitude
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Ah, the Holidays…
That time of year when we return where it all began. The hustle and grind of the past twelve months has built to a fever pitch, and whatever we’ve achieved — or failed to — clings to us like a weight on our shoulders as we step onto the doorsteps of home.
It’s a time of reunions, of seeing faces that knew us before careers, titles, and responsibilities etched lines into our brows. Eyes linger a moment too long, quietly assessing:
“Have they changed?”
“Have they succeeded?”
“How much weight have they gained — or lost?”
And then come the words — warm, congratulatory, or otherwise. “You look amazing!” they’ll gush, or worse, the silence of unspoken judgment.
Later, with old friends, the comparisons begin. It’s subtle, unspoken, but there. This year, as I stood in front of my best friend’s meticulously polished Porsche SUV, a gift to his wife, the voice in my head wasn’t congratulating him. It was whispering something else: envy.
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I was happy for him — truly. I congratulated him on being in a position to give his wife something so extravagant. But as we spent the day together, subtle hints started to pile up, revealing there was more to his gift than I’d initially thought.
Since the last time I’d seen him, he’d grown significantly wealthier. There were comments and allusions that suggested he might even be a millionaire. What started as a faint whisper of envy in the back of my mind soon ignited into a flame of curiosity — and, I’ll admit, a touch of self-pity.
I couldn’t help but wonder: How the hell did he do it?
I tried to play it cool, to not make a fuss about it, but it was gnawing at me. I’d spent the last 12 months busting my ass, juggling work, two kids, and a wife, barely keeping my head above water.
He had kids. He was married. He worked a full-time job. Yet, somehow, he was fitter than me, his house was tidier than mine, and everything I struggled to maintain at a high standard seemed effortlessly better in his world.
What was I missing?
I fought the urge to chalk it up to something simple, like a secret inheritance from a wealthy relative I didn’t know about. Maybe, his grandfather passed and left him a fortune?
Our conversation deepened. I started to understand more about his daily routines and professional growth.
There was no silver bullet. No stroke of luck or hidden windfall. He was simply outworking me in every way imaginable.
Looking at him in his beautiful home, talking about his plans and the ways he still aspired to grow, took me back to when we were kids. Back to the times we would sit on the porch, watching cars roll by, projecting our dreams into the world.
He had turned those dreams into reality — and now, here he was, setting his sights on even higher ceilings to break through.
I felt a pang of shame for the envy stirring inside me.
What had I been doing wrong?
We were essentially the same person. We grew up in the same neighborhood, shared the same circle of friends all the way through college, believed in the same values, and approached life with the same mindset.
But as I listened to him, I realized we had the same foundations and potential, yet we executed differently. He was waking up at 4 a.m. to pursue the things he loved, knowing his busy days wouldn’t allow for it otherwise. Meanwhile, I was hitting snooze, sleeping until the last possible moment before scrambling to get the kids ready and start my day.
I’d been putting off the things I love — like writing. I’d turned down opportunities for higher-paying jobs because I feared they’d chip away at the little time I already had.
The envy I’d felt began to crystalize, forming a smooth, reflective surface — and staring back at me was my own face.
That’s when it hit me: I was actually lucky.
What better friend could I ask for than someone who serves as a reflection of a better version of myself? What better inspiration could there be than the drive to return next year and say, “Hey man, I’m right there with you.”
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Not everyone returns from the holidays feeling inspired. Most head back to their “real” lives with bags of half-thought-out gifts, a few extra pounds around the waist, and the quiet relief of leaving their hometown behind.
Many start the new year armed with a list of goals but rarely with a clear vision of the person they want to become.
The seed of envy grew into something better in me; a desire to do more, to be more.
Cheers to you, bud. Here’s to the push I needed.
#Envy #growNostr #Friends
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-05 02:18:03
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Pre-Foundational learning for these participants has now kicked off in the Bitcoin Design Community, check out the #education channel on the [Bitcoin.Design](https://Bitcoin.Design) [Discord channel](https://discord.com/channels/903125802726596648/1260871907050393620).
## 🪇 10 talented participants from South America will be:
Learning bitcoin UX Design fundamentals using the Bitcoin Design Guide
Working hands-on with South American-built products to evaluate their user experiences and support builders with data
> Attending [BTC++ in Florianópolis](https://btcplusplus.dev/conf/floripa)
This initiative is sponsored by the [Human Rights Foundation](https://HRF.org) in collaboration with the [Bitcoin Design Foundation](https://bitcoindesignfoundation.org/) and [Area Bitcoin](https://areabitcoin.co).
## 🥅 Goals:
- Empower local talent to improve the UX of South American bitcoin products - seeing their passion and drive to bring bitcoin to their countries is really inspiring
- Create meaningful relationships with wallet developers through practical collaboration
- Scale bitcoin adoption by improving the user experience
- Create a public knowledge base: All research conducted in Africa and South America will be made publicly available for builders
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/876215
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@ dd1f9d50:06113a21
2025-02-05 01:48:55
#### **(Because Most People Don’t Understand Money)**
#### The requisite knowledge needed to know whether $100 or $100,000 per Bitcoin is relatively speaking “a lot,” is what value means. One way to measure value is through a universal yardstick we call “Money.” The question of “What is money?” is perhaps one of the most overlooked and under answered in our day and age. There is even an entire podcast dedicated to that question with the eponymous title, hosted by Robert Breedlove. That podcast often delves into the more philosophical underpinnings whereas I hope to approach this with a more practical answer.
**Money is a technology.**
Money is the technology with which we interact with one another to reorganize goods and services to the place and time they are best suited. Most money of the past has been tangible (though not a requisite feature), scarce, recognizable (read: verifiable), durable, portable, and divisible. These features one might call the “Attributes of Money.” These attributes are absolutely essential for a money to maintain its status as a money. (Those of you who understand the U.S. Dollar system maybe scratching your heads right now but, believe me, I will address that elephant in due time.) These attributes, you may notice, are not a yes or no but more of a gradient. A money can be MORE portable than another yet, less durable. One more divisible but not scarce whatsoever. The point being they must have, in some capacity, these attributes or they simply aren’t money.
**One of These Things is Not Like the Other**
| | **Bitcoin** | **Gold** | **Dollars** |
|-----------------|:----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------:|:------------------------------------------------------------------:|:--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------:|
| **Scarcity** | 21 million coins <br />is the maximum supply | Unknown- the <br />supply grows roughly 2% per year | Also unknown to anyone outside of the Federal Reserve, Trillions and counting |
| **Recognizability** | Each coin is verifiable to it's genesis on the timechain | Each molecule of gold has distinct physical verifiable properties | If the Federal reserve says it is a valid note, it is (Unless you are an enemy of the United States) |
| **Durablility** | Each "Bitcoin" is information stored on a globally distributed network | Doesn't Rust and as far as can be measured Au197 is stable forever | Can be destroyed by any means that effect fabric and centralized databases |
| **Portability** | Available wherever data can be store- Anywhere | Can be moved at 9.81 Newtons per Kilogram- Methods may vary | Can be moved physically with fabric notes- Digitally with express permission from a US accredited banking institution |
| **Divisibility** | Currently can be divided into 100 million parts called Sats (can be further subdivided by adding decimal places) | Can be divided to the Atomic level (Though not practical) | Can be divided (without dilution) by adding new denominative bills or coinage<br />Can be divided (with dilution) by printing new bills or coinage |
| | **Bitcoin** | **Gold** | **Dollars** |
You may think with all of the great functionality of Bitcoin that the phrase "One of these things is not like the other" refers to BTC. No, I was referring to the Dollar. It is the only one on the list that was a currency that was substituted as some kind of faux money. It asserts itself, or rather the Federal Reserve asserts it, as money, de facto.
**Dollars are NOT money.**
Dollars are (allegedly) a currency. If money is a specific technology, currency is the financial infrastructure that allows that technology to reach and be used by the most number of people possible. This requires a firm tether between the asset being used as money and the currency used as a claim to that money. For example: If I hand you a chicken, you have a chicken. But, if I hand you a coupon that is redeemable for a chicken, you do not have a chicken. You have a claim to a chicken that is only as good as the party making that claim. Bringing it back to money again, dollars (Prior to 1971) were redeemable for gold at a rate of $35 per ounce. This is that strong tether that pegged dollars to gold and physical reality itself. Without a proof of work, mining, . Until…
**WTF Happened in 1971?**
The Nixon shock happened. Briefly, The U.S. took in Europe’s gold in the 1940’s to keep it out of Hitler’s hands. The U.S. made an agreement to peg the dollar to Europe’s gold. The U.S. over printed dollars in relation to the gold holdings. Around 1971 France (among others) called the U.S. out for devaluing the dollar and thus European currencies. So, Nixon “Temporarily” suspended the convertibility of dollars to gold. Now, here we all are like Wile E. Coyote having run off of the golden cliff clutching our dollars in our arms and 54 years later we still haven’t looked down to see the truth.
**Dollars Aren’t Backed by Anything**
This is why no country in the world today has a money standard. Seemingly they all forgot the number one rule of issuing currency, it must be backed by something. Now, you may hear dollar proponents say “The U.S. dollar is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States!” Another way of saying that is, “We said it is worth something, so it is!” This fiat (by decree) mentality creates a plethora of perverse incentives. The ever growing supply disallows users of the Dollar to save without inccuring the penalties of inflation.
**Just a Few Examples of How You're Being Crushed**
Because your dollar loses value:
- It pushes people to spend them on assets that seem to appreciate (as the dollar debases) but are truly staying stagnant.
- It pushes people to gamble on securities hoping the perceived value is enough to beat the inflationary curve.
- It pushes people away from saving for their future and the future of their families.
- It creates insane credit incentives so that people borrow way more than they can afford today knowing that dollars will be cheaper in the future. (Effectively a short position)
- It pushes people to spend less and less time making and maintaining their families as it becomes more expensive to keep a similar lifestyle to which it was founded.
These are just a few of the terrible consequences of not knowing that trading a currency with no monetary backing has on a society. Most may blame this soley on the ability to print currency by a central bank but, that is not the only factor. If the fed printed dollars against gold, people would simply take the best rate they could get and remonetize themselves with the gold. But because there is no monetary escape hatch guaranteed by the issuance of dollars, I.E. no one has to take your dollars in exchange for their Bitcoin or gold, you are left at the mercy of the market.
**One Day, People Will Stop Accepting Your Dollars**
Those lementing the high price of Bitcoin might want to thank their lucky stars that Bitcoin still has a rational number next to the "BTC 1=$?" sign. One day you will have to exchange something of actual value to the spender (no longer a seller). Your product, good or service, will be the only thing that anyone might be willing to part with their Bitcoin over. That is what makes a money, the most salable non-consumable good, whose only funtion is to back a financial structure that facilitates trade.
**Bitcoin is Capital**
Capital is a broad term that can describe anything that confers value or benefit to its owners, such as a factory and its machinery, or the financial assets of a business or an individual. Bitcoin being the latter creates the financial structures from which you build upon. You use capital to hold, transfer, and grow value. You do not do this with cash. Cash is a depreciating asset when you don't use it to gain goods or services for yourself or your business. This misconception around the equivalance between cash and money (financial capital) is what tricks people into believing Dollars are money. And what's worse is that even some of our greatest heroes have done this.
**Slay Your Heroes, Within Reason**
Unfortunately due to a mixing of verbiage that have **very distinct** differences, the title: "Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System" is technically inaccurate. Bitcoin doesn't fit the definition of **cash**, which is a liquid asset that can be easily converted into its equivalent value. In short, Satoshi misspoke. In reality, owning Bitcoin UTXOs (with private keys) means you already possess the asset, not just a claim to it. When you spend Bitcoin, the recipient receives the actual asset, not a promise of it. When you receive Bitcoin, you have final settlement on that transaction. Fundamentally Bitcoin is not cash, electronic or otherwise.
# Bitcoin is Money.
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-05 01:26:18
# How does the collaborative nature of open design in bitcoin influence innovation and product development in the ecosystem?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/876187
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@ df478568:2a951e67
2025-02-05 01:02:39
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About 150,000 blocks ago, I bought burgers for my family with sats at NextBurger in Newport, California. The Orange County Bitcoin Meetup found a hamburger stand that wanted to accept Bitcoin. This attracted Bitcoiners from all over Southern California. People brought their families. Some sat stackers sold wares outside as if it were a Farmer's Market. A couple kids sold some hats. One dude sold pins. I bought one off him. It resembled the Opendime I use as a keychain. He wore a 21M/infinity hat. We talked about Knut Svanholm books. He asked me, "What do you do for bitcoin?"
"I write a blog," I said. I must have written three articles about Bitcoin back then. I set up a BTCpayServer with LunaNode. My real idea was to write for sats, but I spent more sats on Lunanode than I made. I needed something to sell.
I had a few shitty ideas but no real business plan. I told Pins about one of these shitty ideas.
"I'm thinking about selling BIP39 raffle tickets, but they're a pain in the ass to cut." See what I mean, bad ideas.
Pins didn't say it was a bad idea though. I assure you, it was, but Pins gave this advice.
”Maybe you can use a 3D Printer."
I never did it, but I was impressed by how willing he was to help me. That's common in bitcoin. Bitcoiners are incentivized to help other Bitcoiners. The more people that accept Bitcoin at their stores, the bigger the demand for Bitcoin. The bigger the demand, the more the
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## Bitcoin Is For Spending
I participate in the circular economy because I consider using Bitcoin as money to be more advantageous for my *savings strategy*. When you earn sats, spend sats, and save sats, you break free from the chains of fiat debasement. Dollars are designed to go down in purchasing power to manipulate the public into spending more. That's why most people have more than one TV, but can't afford a $400 emergency. I spend Bitcoin because it forces me to be frugal. Fiat is designed to spend as quickly as possible since it will buy less groceries tomorrow than it will today.
Bitcoin is designed to buy more groceries tomorrow than it will today. When you expect $30 worth of Open AI services will likely be worth $433 in 21 years(if we assume Saylor is correct) you evaluate everything you buy with an orange colored lens. Your shopping habits change. A month of Chat GPT premium mightr be a month's worth of groceries in the future. I no longer buy Nike's because they coat 80k-120k sats, but I expect them to look like shredded cheese in six months. I would rather pay 100k sats for a nice pair of hiking shoes. I expect they will last me a few years.
Knowing this, you might ask, why would you spend Sats on a stupid pin? I've had my open dime pin for almost 4 years now and I expect to have it for years to come. It must have cost me about 100k sats. I don't expect it to be worth that much in the future, but you never know. Sometimes, I watch The Antique Road Show on PBS. Some pins, made by famous artists, are worth thousands of dollars. There is a chance collectibles like this will become more valuable, but I'm skeptical of this. I bought this PIN because it sparks joy, as Marie Kondo says.
This is not investment advice. Your Sats will almost certainly be worth more than your pins in the future, but if you buy a PIN from Salvador Dali, nobody stacks Sats. If you buy a PIN from BTCPins, a hardcore bitccoiner stack sats, which means less sats on the market will be availavle for 8 billion people when you buy a pin. Maybe pins will buy another hat from a bitccoiner, but that just means another bitccoiner stacks Sats. Notice how these Sats never make it back to the exchange because Bitcoiners know their stack will be more valuable in the future than they are today. So when you spend Sats, you only spend Sats on the things you find most valuable.
## Pins I Bought Online
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Although I consider these Pins art. I don't view art as an investment. I don't expect to ever sell one of these Pins for $110,000 like that banana duct-taped to a canvas before the artist got the munchies. **I don't want dollars anyway**. That's like a whole coin for a banana. I wouldn't spend 100,000,000 sats for one of these Pins, but BTCPins are not so pretentiously priced.
I recently bought some pins I've been salivating over for months. I need a better way of displaying them, but here are the pins I recently bought.
### An Awesome Affiliate Link
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BTCPins has a [unique affiliate link](https://btcpins.com/affiliate-signup/). Provide your lightning address and it will generate an affiliate link for you. These things have been around since the 90s, but what makes this particular link notable is how commissions are paid: In sats on the Bitcoin lightning network.
#### How BTCPins Affiliates Work
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- Navigate to https://btcpins.com/affiliates/
- Enter your lightning address.
- Generate your link
- Share with the world.
So buy a pin or two from BTCPins today using my affiliate link:
Encrypted Link: https://btcpins.com/?aff=ex1GhhNeeU9-PQ1-ZVEkarU9bSnsNyq98Jy_lEUBLmsrWsCqa69PYohMWcCOGK9tK1rAqmuvT2KITFnAjhivbfOajnP3D8A8O09Hi-OY4K8
npub1marc26z8nh3xkj5rcx7ufkatvx6ueqhp5vfw9v5teq26z254renshtf3g0
[802,338](https://mempool.marc26z.com/block/00000000000000000001552286d359e5064ee9f97406e1d1ba2f790df43c613a)
[Subscribe on Substack](https://marc26z.substack.com)
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@ 16d11430:61640947
2025-02-05 00:52:05
Introduction: Colonization as a Multi-Generational Trauma
Colonization was not only a political and economic endeavor but also a deeply psychological one. Through forced labor, cultural erasure, and systematic oppression, colonizers imposed a set of economic and social behaviors that favored their interests. Though most colonies gained independence in the mid-20th century, the trauma of colonization remains embedded in their financial and governance structures.
Modern research in epigenetics suggests that trauma can alter gene expression and be passed down through generations (Yehuda & Lehrner, 2018). In a socio-economic context, the colonial mindset—marked by dependency, economic passivity, and a lack of financial sovereignty—persists within many post-colonial nations. One of the most insidious methods by which this trauma is maintained is through fiat currency and debt-based financial systems, which perpetuate economic dependency on former colonizers.
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1. The Psychological Impact of Colonial Trauma and Economic Passivity
Historical trauma theory suggests that populations subjected to prolonged oppression develop collective learned helplessness—a psychological state in which they stop attempting to resist their conditions because they have been conditioned to believe resistance is futile (Sotero, 2006).
This manifests in post-colonial societies in several ways:
1. Economic Dependency: A tendency to rely on foreign aid, multinational corporations, and foreign direct investment (FDI) rather than fostering self-sustaining industries.
2. Risk Aversion in Economic Policy: Research suggests that traumatic experiences affect the brain’s ability to take financial risks (Shields et al., 2016), leading to post-colonial states preferring IMF/World Bank solutions rather than exploring independent monetary policies.
3. Political Elite Compliance: Many former colonies' elites were educated in Western institutions, perpetuating colonial economic structures that maintain wealth extraction.
---
2. Fiat Currency as a Tool of Economic Control
Fiat currency—money that has no intrinsic value but is backed by government decree—has been one of the most effective tools for maintaining economic dominance over former colonies.
A. The CFA Franc: A Colonial Currency in 2024
One of the most blatant examples of fiat currency maintaining colonial control is the CFA franc, used by 14 African countries, but ultimately controlled by France.
These countries must keep 50% of their foreign reserves in the French Treasury.
France dictates the monetary policies of these countries, limiting their financial autonomy.
Import dependency: Because the CFA franc is overvalued, it makes local goods more expensive while making European imports cheaper, reinforcing dependency on former colonizers.
B. The Role of the IMF and World Bank in Debt Colonialism
Post-colonial nations, lacking industrial infrastructures due to resource extraction under colonial rule, often turn to IMF and World Bank loans for development. However, these loans come with conditions that ensure neo-colonial economic control:
Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs): Force nations to privatize industries, cut social spending, and open markets to foreign corporations—benefiting Western investors.
Perpetual Debt: Since loans are taken in foreign fiat currencies (USD, Euro), debt is rarely reduced, creating a cycle of endless repayment that prevents real economic independence.
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3. How Colonial Trauma Conditions Profitable Behaviors for Former Colonizers
Even outside of direct financial mechanisms, the trauma of colonization has conditioned post-colonial societies to adopt behaviors that benefit the former colonizers.
A. Elites as Gatekeepers of Colonial Structures
In many post-colonial nations, political and economic elites maintain colonial financial policies because they personally benefit from them. Studies (Acemoglu & Robinson, 2012) show that economic elites in post-colonial states are more likely to align with global financial institutions rather than advocate for economic self-determination.
B. Consumer Culture as a Neo-Colonial Tool
Western consumerism remains deeply ingrained in many post-colonial societies. This is a legacy of cultural imperialism, where local industries were suppressed in favor of Western goods.
The majority of African, South Asian, and Latin American countries continue to import Western luxury goods, technology, and services instead of developing their own.
As a result, much of the wealth generated in these countries flows back to Western corporations, mirroring the colonial economic extraction model.
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Conclusion: Fiat Currency as the Modern Brand of Colonization
The economic and psychological trauma of colonization ensures that former colonies remain profitable markets and debt-ridden nations under the control of their colonizers. Fiat currency, international debt structures, and cultural hegemony serve as the modern pillars of economic colonialism, reinforcing behaviors that favor Western economic dominance.
Key Takeaways:
1. Historical trauma conditions former colonies into economic dependency.
2. Fiat currency (such as the CFA franc) remains a tool of colonial control.
3. The IMF and World Bank perpetuate financial dependency through debt cycles.
4. Consumer culture ensures wealth extraction from former colonies to Western economies.
Unless these structures are dismantled, economic sovereignty for formerly colonized nations remains an illusion. Breaking free from the financial colonial matrix requires monetary independence, de-dollarization strategies, and local industrialization, rather than continued reliance on Western financial systems.
---
References:
Yehuda, R., & Lehrner, A. (2018). Intergenerational transmission of trauma effects: Putative role of epigenetic mechanisms. World Psychiatry, 17(3), 243-257.
Sotero, M. M. (2006). A conceptual model of historical trauma: Implications for public health practice and research. Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice, 1(1), 93-108.
Shields, G. S., Sazma, M. A., & Yonelinas, A. P. (2016). The effects of acute stress on economic decision-making. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 67, 226-234.
Acemoglu, D., & Robinson, J. (2012). Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty. Crown Business.
Sylla, N. S. (2019). The CFA Franc: The Shackles of Monetary Dependence. Pluto Press.
Hudson, M. (2021). Super Imperialism: The Economic Strategy of American Empire. Pluto Press.
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-05 00:25:20
# How does open source development contribute to bitcoin's security, reliability, and evolution as a network?
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/876130
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@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-02-05 00:14:34
Welcome to the first installment of my ‘Nostr Spotlight’, a series where I explore various Nostr clients (which I will refer to as apps for simplicity sake), review their features, and share tips on how to use them effectively.
For the first installment, I’m diving into [npub.pro](https://npub.pro/), an incredible service that lets anyone on Nostr create a fully functional website using their already-published notes.
---
### What is npub.pro?
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npub.pro is a simple—yet powerful— tool that takes your Nostr content and turns it into a website instantly. By filtering through hashtags or keywords, or hand-selecting which notes to feature, you can curate what appears on your site.
This allows for highly customizable and dynamic websites that anyone on Nostr can deploy. Whether you’re a blogger, photographer, journalist, artist—or just want to organize your notes into a cleanly setup website—this service opens up endless possibilities for showcasing your notes.
---
### Who Should Use npub.pro?
This service is ideal for:
✅ Writers and bloggers who want a frictionless way to publish content.
✅ Artists and photographers looking to showcase their work.
✅ Journalists and researchers who need an easy way to organize articles.
✅ Anyone who wants a personal website without dealing with hosting or technical setups.
---
### Why I Love npub.pro
I’ve personally deployed several websites using npub.pro, each serving a different purpose:
[HesArt](https://hesart.npub.pro) – My personal art portfolio.
https://image.nostr.build/6a7030a24a9c5d4a9e3a0854020e08740241e870e46083b6b326ca36d5dc681f.png
[Hes](https://hes.npub.pro/) – My main long-form writing site, featuring artist statements, travel guides, photo series, tech reviews, and economic essays.
https://image.nostr.build/7d088829dd2ec0f9702430f115e29d368da85a78227cf6524f8773216f6a102e.png
[HesCooks](https://hescooks.npub.pro/) – A collection of curated recipes.
https://image.nostr.build/840ffdc74ac618ddf9534d4ab77a09d02aee45eee8c332a6733bcea5b80a3d2a.png
[HesCreates](https://hescreates.npub.pro/) – A categorized and searchable archive of my notes.
https://image.nostr.build/4663c91f3c77ad59f0f291813c672395f8cc20c6806ca2afffb3e3d65b6c6f37.png
The ability to filter my Nostr content and instantly publish it as a website has made organizing my notes seamless and efficient. The opportunities are endless and I have several ideas for other websites I plan on deploying.
---
### How to Get Started
1.Visit [npub.pro](https://npub.pro/).
2.Enter your Nostr private key (nsec) using an extension of bunker.
3.Choose your filters (hashtags, keywords, etc.) to curate what appears and select a pre-made theme.
4.Publish instantly – no extra setup needed!
It’s that simple.
---
### Final Verdict:
5/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
npub.pro is an outstanding tool that makes publishing on the web effortless for Nostr users. It’s intuitive, versatile, and packed with potential use cases. Whether you need a blog, portfolio, or curated archive, this app delivers.
Highly recommended!
---
#### More from Hes
[Full Portfolio](https://hesart.npub.pro)
[Online Store](https://plebeian.market/community/hes@nostrplebs.com/hesmart-ym3fcufdfz)
[Artist Statements](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/art/)
[Travel Guides](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/travel/)
[Photography](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/photography)
[Writings](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/money)
---
*Note: This spotlight is not sponsored. I thoroughly enjoy the service and have received outstanding customer service from the team at npub.pro!*
**Stay tuned for more Nostr App Spotlights as I explore the best apps in the ecosystem!**
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@ 2cde0e02:180a96b9
2025-02-04 23:05:57
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Moving to pencil. Portraits too difficult currently in ink immediately.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/876045
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@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-02-04 22:17:27
## Chef's notes
Credit to The Yummy Life. Go show them love below:
https://www.theyummylife.com/Pickled_Jalapeno_Peppers
## Details
- ⏲️ Prep time: 1 hour
- 🍳 Cook time: 20 mins
- 🍽️ Servings: 4 mason jars (pint)
## Ingredients
- 2 lbs. jalapenos
- 2-1/4 cups vinegar (white distilled, apple cider, or a combination of the two)
- 2-1/4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey (optional)
- ADD TO EACH PINT JAR
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon whole black pepper corns
- 1/4 teaspoon whole cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon whole coriander seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 whole garlic clove, peeled
- 1/8 teaspoon Pickle Crisp granules (optional)
## Directions
1. Slice 1/2 pound jalapenos into 1/8" rounds, discarding stem ends.
2. Prepare the jars: Wash 4 pint jars and lids in hot sudsy water, then keep them warm.
3. Prepare the pickling liquid: Combine 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon water, and 1-1/2 teaspoons sugar or honey (optional) in a 2 quart pan, heating until just before boiling.
4. Fill the jars: Add jalapeno slices to each jar, pressing them down and packing them in compactly, then pour the hot pickling liquid into each jar, leaving 1/2" head space.
5. Process and store: Allow jars to cool to room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator or can them using standard USDA water process canning procedures, following storage guidelines for refrigerator or canned pickled peppers.
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@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-02-04 21:42:24
## Chef's notes
Classic beef n' broccoli. Easy to make and dank to eat.
## Details
- ⏲️ Prep time: 20 mins
- 🍳 Cook time: 10 mins.
## Ingredients
- 1 lb top sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 head broccoli, cut into 1-inch (2 ½ cm) florets
- ½ cup water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
## Directions
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the sirloin steak, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and ginger until the meat is evenly covered in the marinade. Set aside to marinate for 20 minutes.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Dump in the meat and marinade and sear each side until golden brown. Transfer the meat to a clean bowl and set aside.
3. Place the broccoli into the hot skillet and sauté until the broccoli has just started to brown, about 1 minute. Pour the water into the skillet and immediately cover with a lid. Let it steam for 2 minutes, until the broccoli has softened.
4. Remove the lid and toss in the garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil. Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Add the steak back into the pan and stir to combine. Remove from heat and serve on a bed of brown rice.
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@ 21ffd29c:518a8ff5
2025-02-04 21:12:15
- **What Are Homestead Chickens?**
Homestead chickens are domesticated fowl kept by homeowners to provide eggs and companionship. They play a vital role in the homestead ecosystem.
**Why Water is Essential in Cold Weather**
- **Hydration Basics**:
Chickens don't drink much water naturally but need it for hydration, especially during cold weather when metabolic rates increase.
- **Environmental Factors**:
Cold weather can lead to ice buildup on water sources. Chickens benefit from having access to fresh water year-round.
**Maintaining Accessible Water Sources**
- **Shallow Troughs**:
Use shallow troughs instead of deep containers to minimize ice formation and ensure constant water supply.
- **Automatic Feeders**:
Consider installing automatic feeders for convenience, especially in unpredictable weather conditions.
- **Multiple Water Sources**:
Provide multiple water sources to prevent competition and ensure all chickens have access.
**Preventing Ice Buildup**
- **Floating Shallow Troughs**:
Opt for troughs that sit above the ground to avoid ice buildup. Ensure they're placed where they can't freeze completely.
- **Regular Checks**:
Inspect water sources regularly to remove ice and debris, maintaining accessibility for chickens.
**Best Practices for Watering Chickens**
- **Waterers Designed for Cold Weather**:
Use waterers made of stainless steel or plastic that can withstand cold temperatures.
- **Seasonal Adjustments**:
During extreme cold spells, supplement with a small amount of fresh water to aid in drinking.
**Conclusion**
- **Key Takeaways**:
Providing proper water is crucial for the health and well-being of homestead chickens during cold weather. Maintaining accessible, shallow water sources prevents issues like ice buildup and ensures hydration.
**Final Thoughts**
- **Sustainability Considerations**:
While chickens don't drink much, ensuring they have water supports their overall health and sustainability efforts.
- **Environmental Impact**:
Thoughtful water management can reduce water usage, promoting eco-friendly practices on the homestead.
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@ b035c1dc:7a27ddbd
2025-02-04 20:18:20
Sockz
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@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-02-04 18:40:56
### What is it?
I stumbled upon the **Elgato Stream Deck** while aimlessly browsing the web, and I was instantly intrigued. But one question kept nagging me—how would I use this, and why do I even need it?
**I don’t stream**.
At first glance, it seemed like just another gadget to clutter my already cramped desk in my tiny Shanghai apartment. But curiosity got the best of me. After some research, **I decided to give it a shot and see what all the hype was about.**
And wow—was that hype justified.
This isn’t a deep-dive review covering every feature (there are plenty of those online). Instead, I want to share **some of the workflows I’ve set up** and hopefully get you thinking about the endless possibilities you could create with a Stream Deck.
**If you’re someone who loves making computer tasks easier** but struggles to remember keyboard shortcuts beyond Ctrl + V, this little device might just change the way you work.
---
#### Launching Apps and Websites
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I won’t lie—**my favorite use for the Stream Deck is the sheer convenience of pressing a button and instantly launching what I need**.
Want to watch YouTube? Button.
Open Photoshop? Button.
Play a game? Button.
Check Bitcoin prices? Those are always on the display.
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Sure, it’s a small thing, but the speed and ease of launching apps or navigating to websites make a surprising difference. **What used to be a few clicks and keystrokes is now a single tap**.
After using the Stream Deck for a while, my laptop feels... clunky. I’ve genuinely noticed **an increase in my productivity** and focus.
---
#### Custom Application Profiles
One of the most powerful features of the Stream Deck is its ability to switch profiles based on the application you’re using.
This means that **every time you switch programs, the buttons automatically adjust** to show relevant shortcuts and commands. It’s a game-changer for software with hundreds of keyboard shortcuts, making multitasking seamless.
I’ll admit—setting up custom profiles can be a bit time-consuming. The good news? You don’t have to start from scratch. **There are tons of downloadable third-party profiles** for popular programs like Illustrator, Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Microsoft Office, and Ableton.
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If your favorite app doesn’t have a pre-made profile, you can always build your own. It takes some effort, but once it's set up, the workflow improvements are worth it.
---
#### Music and Audio Control
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I use an audio interface for lossless wired playback and external microphone support. The Stream Deck makes **switching between my computer’s default mic and my studio mic effortless**—no more digging through system preferences.
Even if you don’t use external audio gear, the Stream Deck still has plenty of value for music lovers.
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It integrates with Apple Music and Spotify, letting you control playback, skip tracks, like songs, and add them to playlists—all without switching apps. **Elgato is constantly adding new third-party integrations**, which gives the device even more longevity.
---
#### Lighting and Smart Home Control
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If you have smart home devices, the Stream Deck can act as a command center. It integrates with platforms like Philips Hue, LIFX, Nanoleaf, and IFTTT, letting you **control lights, scenes, and colors with a single tap**.
Want to set the mood for gaming, reading, or watching a movie? Done.
You can even use it to trigger other smart devices, like cameras, thermostats, or speakers, using IFTTT applets. The possibilities here are endless.
---
#### Finder and Document Shortcuts
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One of the most unexpectedly useful features for me has been **quick access to folders and files**.
I’ve set up buttons for my most frequently used folders—Downloads, Desktop, and Documents—so I can access them instantly. I’ve also created **buttons for specific files like spreadsheets and PDFs,** so I don’t have to dig through folders to find them.
It sounds simple, but when juggling multiple projects, these little time-savers add up fast.
---
### Final Thoughts
The Elgato Stream Deck is a surprisingly versatile tool that enhances **productivity, creativity, and entertainment**. Whether you’re launching apps, controlling music, managing smart devices, or creating complex workflows, it streamlines everyday tasks in a way that’s hard to go back from.
At first, I thought it was just for streamers. Now? **I can’t imagine working without it**.
I hope this post gives you some ideas on how to make the most of a Stream Deck. If you have any questions or thoughts, drop a comment below.
Thanks for reading!
---
> Feel free to support me by grabbing one through my affiliate link below:
[Purchase a Stream Deck](https://amzn.to/3WLGiLE)
---
#### More from Hes
[Full Portfolio](https://hesart.npub.pro)
[Online Store](https://plebeian.market/community/hes@nostrplebs.com/hesmart-ym3fcufdfz)
[Artist Statements](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/art/)
[Travel Guides](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/travel/)
[Photography](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/photography)
[Writings](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/money)
---
*Originally published in 2022. All images are credit of Hes, but you are free to download and use for any purpose. If you find joy from my art, please feel free to send a zap. Enjoy life on a Bitcoin standard.*
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@ 0c503f08:4aed05c7
2025-02-04 18:15:32
Sometimes I think I'm a bit nihilistic, it can make me sad at times, but at times it also gives me ultimate freedom. What gets you up in the morning?
We’re stardust that somehow became self-aware. The odds of existing are astronomically small—every ancestor in your lineage survived long enough to pass on life, through ice ages, disasters, and chaos. You’re the universe experiencing itself.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/875807
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@ 8d34bd24:414be32b
2025-02-04 17:55:30
So many of our problems are due to our point of view. The closer our point of view gets to God, the more peace and joy we will feel.
Too often we look at God as the big, bad killjoy. We resent when He tells us all the “fun” things we aren’t supposed to do and when He tells us to do difficult things like submit to God, submit to husbands, submit to authorities. Too many people focus on the “do nots,” and don’t like the idea of anyone telling them what to do. They then do their own thing, which they think will make them happy. Unfortunately, this leads to the opposite.
God is our Creator. He created us for a purpose within the rest of His creation.
> For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)
When we are doing His will we will find peace and joy. When we fight Him on what we should and should not be doing, we feel frustration, depression, and even despair. Our constant seeking of things to make us happy is actually our innate desire for God and to fulfill His will. Unfortunately, we frequently don’t see the truth and avoid the one thing that will give us peace because it is hard, inconvenient, and doesn’t lead to what we think we want right now.
God wants what is best for us. He also thinks eternally. He doesn’t think in the here and now, like we do. Just as a parent makes decisions for his/her child based on knowledge of what will be better for them in the long term (saving vs spending, healthy food vs junk food, etc.), God makes decisions for us based on what will best prepare us for eternity with Him. Frequently that looks much different than what we think we want. Frequently that even includes hardship and pain because we are much more likely to grow in faith, strength, and holiness during hardship than we do during comfort. We need to understand that God knows best and that He never makes a mistake.
> Trust in the Lord with all your heart\
> And do not lean on your own understanding.\
> In all your ways acknowledge Him,\
> And He will make your paths straight.\
> Do not be wise in your own eyes;\
> Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.\
> It will be healing to your body\
> And refreshment to your bones. (Proverbs 3:5-8)
Nothing happens on earth without God allowing it. Just as Satan had to ask permission to persecute Job, in the same way nobody can cause believers harm without God allowing it for His purpose, which is usually related to helping them to put their full trust in Him.
> Remember the former things long past,\
> For I am God, and there is no other;\
> I am God, and there is no one like Me,\
> Declaring the end from the beginning,\
> And from ancient times things which have not been done,\
> Saying, ‘My purpose will be established,\
> And I will accomplish all My good pleasure’; (Isaiah 46:9-10)
So often I focus on how awesome, powerful, and holy our God is. He is also the most tender, loving, caring, personal father God. Read Psalm 139. The God of the Bible is not a distant clock maker who set the world in motion and let it go about without His care. He is personally involved in everything that happens and in the life of every person on earth, but especially in the life of those who trust in Him.
> **O Lord, You have searched me and known me.\
> You know when I sit down and when I rise up;\
> You understand my thought from afar.**\
> You scrutinize my path and my lying down,\
****And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.\
> Even before there is a word on my tongue,\
> Behold, O Lord, You know it all.**\
> You have enclosed me behind and before,\
> And laid Your hand upon me.\
****Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;\
> It is too high, I cannot attain to it.**\
> Where can I go from Your Spirit?\
> Or where can I flee from Your presence?\
> If I ascend to heaven, You are there;\
> If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.\
> If I take the wings of the dawn,\
> If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,\
****Even there Your hand will lead me**,\
> And Your right hand will lay hold of me.\
> If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,\
> And the light around me will be night,”\
> Even the darkness is not dark to You,\
> And the night is as bright as the day.\
> Darkness and light are alike to You.\
> For You formed my inward parts;\
> You wove me in my mother’s womb.\
> I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;\
> Wonderful are Your works,\
> And my soul knows it very well.\
> My frame was not hidden from You,\
> When I was made in secret,\
> And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;\
****Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;\
> And in Your book were all written\
> The days that were ordained for me,\
> When as yet there was not one of them.**\
> How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!\
> How vast is the sum of them!\
> If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand.\
> When I awake, I am still with You.\
> O that You would slay the wicked, O God;\
> Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed.\
> For they speak against You wickedly,\
> And Your enemies take Your name in vain.\
> Do I not hate those who hate You, O Lord?\
> And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?\
> I hate them with the utmost hatred;|\
> They have become my enemies.\
****Search me, O God, and know my heart;\
> Try me and know my anxious thoughts;\
> And see if there be any hurtful way in me,\
> And lead me in the everlasting way**. (Psalm 139) {emphasis mine}
What is one of the greatest desires of our hearts? Isn’t it to be truly known and loved for who we are?
> O Lord, You have searched me and known me.\
> You know when I sit down and when I rise up;\
> You understand my thought from afar. (Psalm 139:1-2)
How amazing is it that the Creator of the universe knows you personally and cares for you among all of creation?
> Even before there is a word on my tongue,\
> Behold, O Lord, You know it all. (Psalm 139:4)
He knows our every action, our every thought, and our every feeling before we do.
> Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;\
> It is too high, I cannot attain to it. (Psalm 139:6)
We cannot fully understand how much our Creator cares for us and how carefully God guides us in our every path. We usually can’t see what is for our best. We usually can’t see what great work God is working in us. We usually can’t comprehend how great is His love, knowledge, and plan.
> Even there Your hand will lead me,\
> And Your right hand will lay hold of me. (Psalm 139:10)
It doesn’t matter how difficult a situation we have gotten into. It doesn’t matter how powerful our adversaries are. It doesn’t matter how weak we are. God is always there guiding us and protecting us. Just as God allowed Job to go through difficulty as part of God’s plan for Job and for us, He did not allow Job to be killed. He was guided through the worst of situations and led to ultimate blessing.
> Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;\
> And in Your book were all written\
> The days that were ordained for me,\
> When as yet there was not one of them. (Psalm 139:16)
God knew us and had a plan for us before He even created the universe. He knew every day we would live before we were conceived. We can’t surprise Him and He will be guiding us every day of our lives, especially those who have trusted Him as savior.
> How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!\
> How vast is the sum of them! (Psalm 139:17)
We are precious to God and He should be precious to us because of all He has done for us.
> Search me, O God, and know my heart;\
> Try me and know my anxious thoughts;\
> And see if there be any hurtful way in me,\
> And lead me in the everlasting way. (Psalm 139:23-24)
This should be our prayer. We should ask for Him to bring are faults to our minds so we can repent and we should ask for Him to lead us in His “*everlasting way*.” We should admit that our Father God knows best and submit to His will. Everything goes so much smoother when we aren’t fighting our God. Even when He leads us through hardship, being in His will makes all of the difference in the world.
I pray that you will put your trust in our loving Creator and that you will submit to His will. I pray that you will understand that His ways are better even when you don’t understand the why. I pray that you will humbly submit to His will and be used to further the Kingdom for His glory and your blessing.
Trust Jesus.
FYI, Psalm 139 is also one of the best passages on why all believers should oppose abortion. In God’s universe there are no accidents and there are no unwanted babies. Every person ever conceived had a purpose in God’s plan. Every person ever conceived is valuable and made in the image of God. God values all human life and so should we.
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@ aade47fd:281e8e4f
2025-02-04 17:27:47
Сюрприз! Оказалось, что мне потребовалось две недели для того, чтобы сделать вторую запись в свой ЕЖЕДНЕВНИК. Раньше после такого оглушительного провала бросил бы это дело, но задачей дневника было формирование дисциплины, а не сам дневник. Нет ничего удивительного в том, что дисциплины на ежедневные записи не хватило сразу: буду стараться писать как можно чаще пока не выйду устойчиво на ежедневные публикации.
---
### Я на Сахалине
Вчера, третьего февраля, мы с отцом прилетели на Сахалин. Планирую провести здесь около трех-четырех месяцев, на пару летних месяцев вернусь в Питере (ве-ло-си-пед), а в августе снова на остров. Здесь очень много работы, а отвлекаться практически не на что. Именно то, что мне сейчас нужно.
---
### Личность
Есть я. Есть не я. Граница между мной и не мной — моя личность. Это структура, через которую внешний мир возействует на меня, а я на него. Над личностью можно и нужно работать. В конечном счете, я верю, что больше ни на что непосредственным образом мы не влияем. Мир это поток случайных событий и состояний. Уверен, что в моменте мы ничего не решаем — все реакции готовы заранее. Их подготовка — наша ответственность. В этом и заключается формирование личности. Можно сказать, что сформированная личность это стена, и чем она выше и прочнее, тем устойчивее твое бытие. С жадностью тащи камни для этой стены: любое решение и дело должно первостепенной целью ставить собственное развитие, а только потом уже внешний результат. Слабая личность пропускает в тебя все проклятия окружающего мира, делая жизнь жалкой и отправленной. Так бывает с теми, кто ставит ценности мира над своими собственными. Жаль, что я понял это так поздно. Повезло, что я понял это вообще. Здесь, на Сахалине, у меня будет время решить, чем наполнять мою жизнь, а что отвергать.
---
### Амбиции
Помню, что еще лет двадцать назад у слова "амбиции" было исключительно негативный смысл. Надеюсь, мы окончательно ушли от этого. Амбиции это аппетит к жизни. Человек без амбиций — полуживой, тень своего зомби. Такого невозможно полюбить. Новость для меня оказалась в том, что речь здесь идет не только о мужчинах: недавно я потерял интерес и симпатию к женщине не обнаружив в ней амбиций к развитию. Не ставлю на людях крест, я и сам провел много лет в таком состоянии, но лучше я буду двигаться один, чем стану пытаться кого-то растолкать. Спрашивают, может ли всемогущий Бог создать такой камень, который сам не смог бы поднять? Отвечаю: да, этот камень — человек.
---
На сегодня все. Встретимся завтра!
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@ 91bea5cd:1df4451c
2025-02-04 17:24:50
### Definição de ULID:
Timestamp 48 bits, Aleatoriedade 80 bits
Sendo Timestamp 48 bits inteiro, tempo UNIX em milissegundos, Não ficará sem espaço até o ano 10889 d.C.
e Aleatoriedade 80 bits, Fonte criptograficamente segura de aleatoriedade, se possível.
#### Gerar ULID
```sql
CREATE EXTENSION IF NOT EXISTS pgcrypto;
CREATE FUNCTION generate_ulid()
RETURNS TEXT
AS $$
DECLARE
-- Crockford's Base32
encoding BYTEA = '0123456789ABCDEFGHJKMNPQRSTVWXYZ';
timestamp BYTEA = E'\\000\\000\\000\\000\\000\\000';
output TEXT = '';
unix_time BIGINT;
ulid BYTEA;
BEGIN
-- 6 timestamp bytes
unix_time = (EXTRACT(EPOCH FROM CLOCK_TIMESTAMP()) * 1000)::BIGINT;
timestamp = SET_BYTE(timestamp, 0, (unix_time >> 40)::BIT(8)::INTEGER);
timestamp = SET_BYTE(timestamp, 1, (unix_time >> 32)::BIT(8)::INTEGER);
timestamp = SET_BYTE(timestamp, 2, (unix_time >> 24)::BIT(8)::INTEGER);
timestamp = SET_BYTE(timestamp, 3, (unix_time >> 16)::BIT(8)::INTEGER);
timestamp = SET_BYTE(timestamp, 4, (unix_time >> 8)::BIT(8)::INTEGER);
timestamp = SET_BYTE(timestamp, 5, unix_time::BIT(8)::INTEGER);
-- 10 entropy bytes
ulid = timestamp || gen_random_bytes(10);
-- Encode the timestamp
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 0) & 224) >> 5));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 0) & 31)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 1) & 248) >> 3));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 1) & 7) << 2) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 2) & 192) >> 6)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 2) & 62) >> 1));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 2) & 1) << 4) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 3) & 240) >> 4)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 3) & 15) << 1) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 4) & 128) >> 7)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 4) & 124) >> 2));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 4) & 3) << 3) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 5) & 224) >> 5)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 5) & 31)));
-- Encode the entropy
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 6) & 248) >> 3));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 6) & 7) << 2) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 7) & 192) >> 6)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 7) & 62) >> 1));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 7) & 1) << 4) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 8) & 240) >> 4)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 8) & 15) << 1) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 9) & 128) >> 7)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 9) & 124) >> 2));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 9) & 3) << 3) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 10) & 224) >> 5)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 10) & 31)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 11) & 248) >> 3));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 11) & 7) << 2) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 12) & 192) >> 6)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 12) & 62) >> 1));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 12) & 1) << 4) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 13) & 240) >> 4)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 13) & 15) << 1) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 14) & 128) >> 7)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 14) & 124) >> 2));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 14) & 3) << 3) | ((GET_BYTE(ulid, 15) & 224) >> 5)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(ulid, 15) & 31)));
RETURN output;
END
$$
LANGUAGE plpgsql
VOLATILE;
```
#### ULID TO UUID
```sql
CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION parse_ulid(ulid text) RETURNS bytea AS $$
DECLARE
-- 16byte
bytes bytea = E'\\x00000000 00000000 00000000 00000000';
v char[];
-- Allow for O(1) lookup of index values
dec integer[] = ARRAY[
255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255,
255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255,
255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255,
255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255,
255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 0, 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 255, 255, 255,
255, 255, 255, 255, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,
16, 17, 1, 18, 19, 1, 20, 21, 0, 22,
23, 24, 25, 26, 255, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31,
255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 255, 10, 11, 12, 13,
14, 15, 16, 17, 1, 18, 19, 1, 20, 21,
0, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 255, 27, 28, 29,
30, 31
];
BEGIN
IF NOT ulid ~* '^[0-7][0-9ABCDEFGHJKMNPQRSTVWXYZ]{25}$' THEN
RAISE EXCEPTION 'Invalid ULID: %', ulid;
END IF;
v = regexp_split_to_array(ulid, '');
-- 6 bytes timestamp (48 bits)
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 0, (dec[ASCII(v[1])] << 5) | dec[ASCII(v[2])]);
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 1, (dec[ASCII(v[3])] << 3) | (dec[ASCII(v[4])] >> 2));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 2, (dec[ASCII(v[4])] << 6) | (dec[ASCII(v[5])] << 1) | (dec[ASCII(v[6])] >> 4));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 3, (dec[ASCII(v[6])] << 4) | (dec[ASCII(v[7])] >> 1));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 4, (dec[ASCII(v[7])] << 7) | (dec[ASCII(v[8])] << 2) | (dec[ASCII(v[9])] >> 3));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 5, (dec[ASCII(v[9])] << 5) | dec[ASCII(v[10])]);
-- 10 bytes of entropy (80 bits);
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 6, (dec[ASCII(v[11])] << 3) | (dec[ASCII(v[12])] >> 2));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 7, (dec[ASCII(v[12])] << 6) | (dec[ASCII(v[13])] << 1) | (dec[ASCII(v[14])] >> 4));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 8, (dec[ASCII(v[14])] << 4) | (dec[ASCII(v[15])] >> 1));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 9, (dec[ASCII(v[15])] << 7) | (dec[ASCII(v[16])] << 2) | (dec[ASCII(v[17])] >> 3));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 10, (dec[ASCII(v[17])] << 5) | dec[ASCII(v[18])]);
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 11, (dec[ASCII(v[19])] << 3) | (dec[ASCII(v[20])] >> 2));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 12, (dec[ASCII(v[20])] << 6) | (dec[ASCII(v[21])] << 1) | (dec[ASCII(v[22])] >> 4));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 13, (dec[ASCII(v[22])] << 4) | (dec[ASCII(v[23])] >> 1));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 14, (dec[ASCII(v[23])] << 7) | (dec[ASCII(v[24])] << 2) | (dec[ASCII(v[25])] >> 3));
bytes = SET_BYTE(bytes, 15, (dec[ASCII(v[25])] << 5) | dec[ASCII(v[26])]);
RETURN bytes;
END
$$
LANGUAGE plpgsql
IMMUTABLE;
CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION ulid_to_uuid(ulid text) RETURNS uuid AS $$
BEGIN
RETURN encode(parse_ulid(ulid), 'hex')::uuid;
END
$$
LANGUAGE plpgsql
IMMUTABLE;
```
#### UUID to ULID
```sql
CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION uuid_to_ulid(id uuid) RETURNS text AS $$
DECLARE
encoding bytea = '0123456789ABCDEFGHJKMNPQRSTVWXYZ';
output text = '';
uuid_bytes bytea = uuid_send(id);
BEGIN
-- Encode the timestamp
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 0) & 224) >> 5));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 0) & 31)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 1) & 248) >> 3));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 1) & 7) << 2) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 2) & 192) >> 6)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 2) & 62) >> 1));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 2) & 1) << 4) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 3) & 240) >> 4)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 3) & 15) << 1) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 4) & 128) >> 7)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 4) & 124) >> 2));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 4) & 3) << 3) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 5) & 224) >> 5)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 5) & 31)));
-- Encode the entropy
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 6) & 248) >> 3));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 6) & 7) << 2) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 7) & 192) >> 6)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 7) & 62) >> 1));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 7) & 1) << 4) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 8) & 240) >> 4)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 8) & 15) << 1) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 9) & 128) >> 7)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 9) & 124) >> 2));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 9) & 3) << 3) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 10) & 224) >> 5)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 10) & 31)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 11) & 248) >> 3));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 11) & 7) << 2) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 12) & 192) >> 6)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 12) & 62) >> 1));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 12) & 1) << 4) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 13) & 240) >> 4)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 13) & 15) << 1) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 14) & 128) >> 7)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 14) & 124) >> 2));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 14) & 3) << 3) | ((GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 15) & 224) >> 5)));
output = output || CHR(GET_BYTE(encoding, (GET_BYTE(uuid_bytes, 15) & 31)));
RETURN output;
END
$$
LANGUAGE plpgsql
IMMUTABLE;
```
#### Gera 11 Digitos aleatórios: YBKXG0CKTH4
```sql
-- Cria a extensão pgcrypto para gerar uuid
CREATE EXTENSION IF NOT EXISTS pgcrypto;
-- Cria a função para gerar ULID
CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION gen_lrandom()
RETURNS TEXT AS $$
DECLARE
ts_millis BIGINT;
ts_chars TEXT;
random_bytes BYTEA;
random_chars TEXT;
base32_chars TEXT := '0123456789ABCDEFGHJKMNPQRSTVWXYZ';
i INT;
BEGIN
-- Pega o timestamp em milissegundos
ts_millis := FLOOR(EXTRACT(EPOCH FROM clock_timestamp()) * 1000)::BIGINT;
-- Converte o timestamp para base32
ts_chars := '';
FOR i IN REVERSE 0..11 LOOP
ts_chars := ts_chars || substr(base32_chars, ((ts_millis >> (5 * i)) & 31) + 1, 1);
END LOOP;
-- Gera 10 bytes aleatórios e converte para base32
random_bytes := gen_random_bytes(10);
random_chars := '';
FOR i IN 0..9 LOOP
random_chars := random_chars || substr(base32_chars, ((get_byte(random_bytes, i) >> 3) & 31) + 1, 1);
IF i < 9 THEN
random_chars := random_chars || substr(base32_chars, (((get_byte(random_bytes, i) & 7) << 2) | (get_byte(random_bytes, i + 1) >> 6)) & 31 + 1, 1);
ELSE
random_chars := random_chars || substr(base32_chars, ((get_byte(random_bytes, i) & 7) << 2) + 1, 1);
END IF;
END LOOP;
-- Concatena o timestamp e os caracteres aleatórios
RETURN ts_chars || random_chars;
END;
$$ LANGUAGE plpgsql;
```
#### Exemplo de USO
```sql
-- Criação da extensão caso não exista
CREATE EXTENSION
IF
NOT EXISTS pgcrypto;
-- Criação da tabela pessoas
CREATE TABLE pessoas ( ID UUID DEFAULT gen_random_uuid ( ) PRIMARY KEY, nome TEXT NOT NULL );
-- Busca Pessoa na tabela
SELECT
*
FROM
"pessoas"
WHERE
uuid_to_ulid ( ID ) = '252FAC9F3V8EF80SSDK8PXW02F';
```
### Fontes
- https://github.com/scoville/pgsql-ulid
- https://github.com/geckoboard/pgulid
-
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@ e97aaffa:2ebd765d
2025-02-04 16:58:18
Será que neste ciclo teremos turistas no #Bitcoin?
Nos últimos meses tenho me debruçado muito sobre este assunto, mas não consigo chegar a uma conclusão.
Antes de mais, o que são turistas?
Os turistas são aqueles que compram Bitcoin alimentados pelo FOMO, com a ganância de enriquecer rapidamente. Não tem o mínimo conhecimento do Bitcoin, nem tem interesse em conhecer, só estão pelo dinheiro.
Com a entrada dos turistas, o preço do Bitcoin começa a valorizar exponencialmente, é a segunda fase da _bullrun_, acontece sempre após o halving e após superar o anterior ATH. Com o novo ATH começa a surgir as notícias nas televisões e jornais, o mainstream acorda.
Só que a quantidade de turistas é de tal maneira elevada, muito superior à dos holders. Este desequilíbrio entre forças de curto prazo(turistas) e do longo prazo(_holders_), gera forte volatilidade. Quanto maior o desequilíbrio, maior a volatilidade.
A avalanche de turistas, faz o preço disparar e quanto mais sobe, mais turistas atrai.
Só que o movimento não dura para sempre, a esperança dos turistas de enriquecer rápido, desvanece e rapidamente se transforma numa desilusão, na sua grande maioria entra em pânico, assim que o preço começa a corrigir, vendendo em prejuízo. Sendo responsável pelas gigantes correções, superiores a 70%.
Este é o meu 4° ciclo, eu noto que este está a ser completamente diferente. Nos anteriores, os turistas entravam pelo Bitcoin, mas desta vez está a acontecer uma mudança.
Devido ao elevado _marketcap_ do Bitcoin, este já não permite valorização exponenciais num curto espaço de tempo, estes turistas que procuram multiplicar o seu dinheiro por 10x, 100x ou 1000x, estão a ir directamente para as shitcoins ou memecoins. Estas valorização pornograficas, só acontecerá em meia dúzia, mas o grande problema é que existem milhões de memecoins, é como encontrar uma agulha num palheiro. É o verdadeiro casino e os turistas procuram isto.
Só que neste ciclo, a maior parte dos novos _inflows_ estão a ser através do institucional, sobretudo pelos ETFs. Só que tem um perfil não diferente dos turistas, têm conhecimento de mercados financeiros tradicionais, são muito mais racionais, têm um conhecimento mínimo do Bitcoin. Não têm as mãos de diamante como os holders, mas também não são mãos de alface como os turistas. É um perfil de investidor intermédio. Poderá vender uma pequena parte do Bitcoin, para retirar uma parte do seu investimento inicial, mas tem um pensamento mais de médio-longo prazo.
Com isto, existe um maior equilíbrio entre os que pensam a curto prazo e os que pensam a longo prazo. Até ao momento, eu tenho a sensação que os turistas já não procuram o Bitcoin, ou são muito poucos.
O afastamento dos turistas é bom ou mau?
A meu ver é bom, é verdade que deixamos de ter aquelas enormes explosões no preço para cima, mas também acredito que as correções também serão muito menores. Em suma, uma redução na volatilidade do Bitcoin.
Mas essa redução na volatilidade, vai trazer um novo público, aquele que não é especulador, que apenas quer preservar o seu património, o real valor do Bitcoin, que pensa a longo prazo.
Estes turistas que procuram o 100x, com uma pura ganância, vão passar muitas noites sem dormir e na sua maioria vão perder muito dinheiro, vão acabar por receber uma dura lição de vida. Alguns vão finalmente compreender que Bitcoin é diferente, e que os 2x é suficiente para a sua vida.
A redução de turistas não afeta só o Bitcoin, mas também afeta o mercado das altcoins e das memecoins. Nos ciclos anteriores, os turistas entravam pelo Bitcoin mas depois rodavam o capital para as altcoins, gerando a chamada altseason. Se neste ciclo, os turistas descartam o Bitcoin, consequentemente a rotação será muito menor, possivelmente não haverá altseason.
Mas isto é apenas a minha convicção, só o tempo dirá, se os turistas trocaram o Bitcoin, pelo casino das memecoins.
-
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@ b17fccdf:b7211155
2025-02-01 18:41:27
#### **Next new resources about the MiniBolt guide have been released**:
---
* 🆕 **Roadmap**: [LINK](https://github.com/orgs/minibolt-guide/projects/1)
* 🆕 **Dynamic Network map**: [LINK](https://app.diagrams.net/?tags={}&lightbox=1&target=blank&highlight=0000ff&edit=_blank&layers=1&nav=1&title=networkmap.drawio.png#Uhttps://raw.githubusercontent.com/minibolt-guide/minibolt/main/resources/networkmap.drawio.png)
* 🆕 **Nostr community**: [LINK](https://habla.news/c/[n]addr1qqyy66twd9px7mr5qyf8wumn8ghj7mmxve3ksctfdch8qatzqgstzl7vmurm5gu87qutx3pxwgxddrg39huj809zhmv03scfkus3z4grqsqqpphk2j0aff) < ~ REMOVE the "[]" symbols from the URL (naddr...) to access
* 🆕 **Linktr FOSS** (UC) by [Gzuuus](nostr:npub1gzuushllat7pet0ccv9yuhygvc8ldeyhrgxuwg744dn5khnpk3gs3ea5ds): [LINK](https://linktr.minibolt.info)
* 🆕 **Donate webpage**: 🚾 [Clearnet LINK](https://donate.minibolt.info) || 🧅 [Onion LINK](http://3iqm7nidexns5p6wmgc23ibgiscm6rge7hwyeziviwgav4fl7xui4mqd.onion/apps/Li3AtEGDsqNmNddv6rX69taidm3/pos)
* 🆕 **Contact email**: [hello@minibolt.info](mailto:hello@minibolt.info)
---
Enjoy it MiniBolter! 💙
-

@ 554ab6fe:c6cbc27e
2025-02-04 15:56:29
Modern life, despite all our technology, can still feel challenging. Many of us work very long hours to make ends meet, burdened by stress that can dramatically affect our health. The internet provides us with a wealth of helpful knowledge but also bombards us with headlines that can make us uneasy about the state of the world. In short, life can feel very stressful. Sometimes, leaving it all behind and becoming a monk may seem like a perfect way to escape it all. Though this may work for some, this is simply not a practical thing to do for many of us. Many of us are here to stay. However, even though the stressful nature of society will not change for a very long time, it is possible to reorient one's perspective so that it feels less stressful. In other words, rather than needing to go to a temple to become a monk, one can learn to bring the monk mind here.
It can be challenging to know where to begin to generate a positive outlook on life. So many people try to give advice, yet there never seems to be a "one size fits all" approach. We attempt to solve our outlooks by rationalizing the situation in a more positive way. Indeed, this can be useful for some, but not all. Furthermore, different people require different rationalizations. Regardless of advice, some are still stuck wondering how to have a better outlook on life. There is, of course, another method of perspective, and that is through non-judgment and simple acceptance.
Mindfulness meditation is a method of training the mind to become calmer and more at peace. In the scientific community, meditation is defined as a method of self-regulation of attention to the present moment, involving adopting a particular orientation toward one's experiences characterized by curiosity, openness, acceptance, and non-judgmental (Bishop et al., 2004). The benefits of meditation are many; however, much more research is required to understand its benefits and mechanisms better. The most well-documented benefit of mindfulness meditation is its ability to alleviate stress and anxiety (Greeson et al., 2018; Petterson & Olson, 2017; Querstret et al., 2020). The method by which this occurs is still reasonably unclear, yet many researchers have developed psychological and physiological theories. Furthermore, meditation reduces stress and anxiety while also creating resilience (Chin et al., 2019; Hwang et al., 2018). So, not only does it seem to be a curative treatment, but a preventative one as well. Understanding how meditation creates stress resilience is crucial to understand why meditation is so beneficial to health—the lessons provided in the research share profound philosophical lessons for us to bear in mind.
When studying meditation and its effects on the mind and body, it is essential to take a neuroscientific and psychological approach. The neuroscientific approach is valuable in both providing evidence that meditation impacts the body and sheds light on the mechanisms of action. A psychological perspective is also critical because it evaluates the mental schemas' effect on the body to better understand how the reader can practice this at home and in their daily lives. Both points of view will be discussed below.
**Amygdala and ACC connectivity**
The two brain areas that seem to be highly related to the process of resilience toward stress induced by mindfulness meditation are the amygdala and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC).
The amygdala is found medial to the brain's temporal lobe and plays a vital role in emotional regulation and attention (Desbordes et al., 2012). For this reason, numerous studies have shown to be heavily involved in the experience of stress (Britton, 2006; Hölzel et al., 2009; Rubinow et al., 2016). It also influences the body in response to stress. For example, the amygdala regulates blood pressure in response to stressful stimuli (Saha, 2005).
The role of the ACC is seemingly more complex than the amygdala. In general, it is involved in executing responses regarding incoming interoceptive signals (signals from within the body) (Craig, 2002). For this reason, it connects to the motor cortex of the brain (Craig, 2002). On this same note, the anterior portion of the amygdala, the more executive region, has been associated with regulating endocrine functions, conditioned learning responses, expressing internal states vocally, and maternal-infant interactions (Devinsky et al., 1995). The ACC is related mainly to the processing of internal stimuli, associating it with the practice of mindfulness meditation. Less clear is how it relates to the amygdala and resilience to stress.
The neuroscientific observations of stress resilience are found within the connectivity between the amygdala and the ACC. In a randomized control trial involving a 3-day intensive mindfulness meditation program, researchers found that reduced stress following the practice was marked by decreased communication between the amygdala and the ACC (Taren et al., 2014). The study also noted reduced communication between the amygdala and ACC lessened HPA-axis activation (Taren et al., 2014). The HPA-axis is responsible for releasing hormones such as cortisol, which is a common biomarker for the activation of stress. This study is not alone in observing signs that mindfulness meditation reduces cortisol (Hoge et al., 2018). This is strong evidence that meditation induces physical changes within the brain, promoting resilience to biological responses to stress. The question is, how does this occur mentally, and how can we put this into practice?
**Important Techniques within Meditation**
The discussion and research surrounding how meditation leads to physical changes in the brain and body are complex and poorly understood. The appreciation for science in the west is new, and there is much research to be done. The author's current opinion is that meditation involves both [physical](https://highlighter.com/a/naddr1qvzqqqr4gupzq422kmldvavct44endu667mcfluv5jjmqfmcsyhpj68wurrvhsn7qq056etrdpsku6tnd4ej6mmx94xk2erfw3shg6t0dckh2at48pnxv7kh9ug) and [mental](https://highlighter.com/a/naddr1qvzqqqr4gupzq422kmldvavct44endu667mcfluv5jjmqfmcsyhpj68wurrvhsn7qqdyzt2zd3shxapdw3hj6argv5k4qctnwsknvme389m8steunzv) mechanisms that lead to some of its practical health benefits. Regarding resilience, a randomized control trial also observed that the resilience created was both physical and mental (Hoge et al., 2018). Though the exact mechanism is not fully understood, there has been an effort to gain insight applicable to modern-day life.
The research involving the mechanism at which meditation generates resilience towards stress is often pursued from a psychological point of view. To pursue this question, experiments involve different groups of people who are asked to perform similar tasks but differ in mental schemas practiced. The observed differences in health results indicate specific meditation techniques that are so helpful in generating resilience. For example, a randomized control trial in 2018 involved sending a group of participants to a temple (Hwang et al., 2018). One group was asked to participate in meditation sessions, while another group was asked to simply relax during this time at a peaceful place. The purpose was to discern whether or not the relaxing aspect of meditation was sufficient to produce resilience to stress or if something else was causing the change. The results found that both groups showed short-term benefits, but only the meditators had prolonged resilience towards stress months after the experiment. The results indicate that there was a mental practice involved through meditation that promoted stress resilience. A randomized control trial in 2019 expanded on this investigation by having one group of meditators purely practice the focused attention on the present, while the other group focused on the present while also cultivating a perspective of acceptance to all incoming stimuli (Chin et al., 2019). This study found that those who practiced a non-judgmental awareness showed a more significant reduction of stress than the attention group and the non-meditators, suggesting that the non-judgmental awareness of the present moment and experience was an essential aspect of stress resilience. Others have produced a similar theory on why meditation seems to be a healthy therapeutic method for those suffering from PTSD (Thompson & Waltz, 2010). The significance of these findings is not only crucial for those who have a meditation practice but anyone in general.
**Be Non-Judgmental**
A key aspect of meditation practice is to be mindful and aware of the present experience and interpret all thoughts, experiences, and stimuli in an accepting and non-judgemental manner. Not only is this important within the philosophical teachings, but it is a core aspect of how meditation works from a scientific point of view. This has profound implications for the importance of how we generate personal narratives. In meditation, one learns to let go of every incoming experience, no matter how tempting it is to value that thought or feeling. This is perhaps why the amygdala and ACC are involved. The amygdala is involved in emotions and stress, and the ACC is involved in "doing something about it." In meditation, no matter the feeling, thought, or stressor, one must cultivate an attitude of acceptance. One must simply continue sitting and focusing on the present. There is no evaluation, no judgment, simply acceptance.
This article began with the idea that one can become resilient to stress and experience less of it by simply reorienting their perspective of modern stressors. It was also stated that there is seemingly no one answer for everyone. This may be because people often try to generate rational or schemas to help people think about events differently. This article argues a different approach: don't think, just accept, let go, and move on. This is easier said than done, of course, and by no means are the benefits of meditation best articulated through argument. It is best to be experienced first hand.
Nonetheless, we are heavily burdened by the values we give to thoughts related to the stressors of modern-day life. We cannot avoid the stressors, but we can change their power over us. Removing their meaning and value removes their power and influence.
**References**
Bishop, S. R., Lau, M., Shapiro, S., Carlson, L., Anderson, N. D., Carmody, J., Segal, Z. v., Abbey, S., Speca, M., Velting, D., & Devins, G. (2004). Mindfulness: A Proposed Operational Definition. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 11(3), 230–241. https://doi.org/10.1093/clipsy.bph077
Britton, W. B. (2006). Meditation and Depression.
Chin, B., Lindsay, E. K., Greco, C. M., Brown, K. W., Smyth, J. M., Wright, A. G. C., & Creswell, J. D. (2019). Psychological mechanisms driving stress resilience in mindfulness training: A randomized controlled trial. Health Psychology, 38(8), 759–768. https://doi.org/10.1037/hea0000763
Craig, A. D. (2002). How do you feel? Nature Review. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105308095062
Desbordes, G., Negi, L. T., Pace, T. W. W., Alan Wallace, B., Raison, C. L., & Schwartz, E. L. (2012). Effects of mindful-attention and compassion meditation training on amygdala response to emotional stimuli in an ordinary, Nonmeditative State. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 6(OCTOBER 2012), 292. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2012.00292
Devinsky, O., Morrell, M. J., & Vogt, B. A. (1995). Contributions of anterior cingulate cortex to behaviour. Brain, 118(1), 279–306. https://doi.org/10.1093/BRAIN/118.1.279
Greeson, J. M., Zarrin, H., Smoski, M. J., Brantley, J. G., Lynch, T. R., Webber, D. M., Hall, M. H., Suarez, E. C., & Wolever, R. Q. (2018). Mindfulness Meditation Targets Transdiagnostic Symptoms Implicated in Stress-Related Disorders: Understanding Relationships between Changes in Mindfulness, Sleep Quality, and Physical Symptoms. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/4505191
Hoge, E. A., Bui, E., Palitz, S. A., Schwarz, N. R., Owens, M. E., Johnston, J. M., Pollack, M. H., & Simon, N. M. (2018). The effect of mindfulness meditation training on biological acute stress responses in generalized anxiety disorder. Psychiatry Research, 262(May 2016), 328–332. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2017.01.006
Hölzel, B. K., Carmody, J., Evans, K. C., Hoge, E. A., Dusek, J. A., Morgan, L., Pitman, R. K., & Lazar, S. W. (2009). Stress reduction correlates with structural changes in the amygdala. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 5(1), 11–17. https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsp034
Hwang, W. J., Lee, T. Y., Lim, K. O., Bae, D., Kwak, S., Park, H. Y., & Kwon, J. S. (2018). The effects of four days of intensive mindfulness meditation training (Templestay program) on resilience to stress: A randomized controlled trial. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 23(5), 497–504. https://doi.org/10.1080/13548506.2017.1363400
Petterson, H., & Olson, B. L. (2017). Effects of mindfulness-based interventions in high school and college athletes for reducing stress and injury, and improving quality of life. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 26(6), 578–587. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2016-0047
Querstret, D., Morison, L., Dickinson, S., Cropley, M., & John, M. (2020). Mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for psychological health and well-being in nonclinical samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Stress Management, 27(4), 394–411. https://doi.org/10.1037/str0000165
Rubinow, M. J., Mahajan, G., May, W., Overholser, J. C., Jurjus, G. J., Dieter, L., Herbst, N., Steffens, D. C., Miguel-Hidalgo, J. J., Rajkowska, G., & Stockmeier, C. A. (2016). Basolateral amygdala volume and cell numbers in major depressive disorder: a postmortem stereological study. Brain Structure and Function, 221(1), 171–184. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00429-014-0900-z
Saha, S. (2005). ROLE OF THE CENTRAL NUCLEUS OF THE AMYGDALA IN THE CONTROL OF BLOOD PRESSURE: DESCENDING PATHWAYS TO MEDULLARY CARDIOVASCULAR NUCLEI. Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology, 32(5–6), 450–456. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1681.2005.04210.x
Taren, A. A., Gianaros, P. J., Greco, C. M., Lindsay, E. K., Fairgrieve, A., Brown, K. W., Rosen, R. K., Ferris, J. L., Julson, E., Marsland, A. L., Bursley, J. K., Ramsburg, J., & Creswell, J. D. (2014). Mindfulness meditation training alters stress-related amygdala resting state functional connectivity: A randomized controlled trial. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 10(12), 1758–1768. https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsv066
Thompson, B. L., & Waltz, J. (2010). Mindfulness and experiential avoidance as predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder avoidance symptom severity. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 24(4), 409–415. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.janxdis.2010.02.005
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@ b17fccdf:b7211155
2025-02-01 18:28:39
---
##### Check out the **MiniBolt guide** -> [HERE](https://minibolt.info) <-
---
* **Core guides**
* [**System**](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/system/system)
* [Preparations](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/system/system/preparations)
* [Operating System](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/system/system/operating-system)
* [Remote access](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/system/system/remote-access)
* [Configuration](https://minibolt.info/guide/system/configuration)
* [Security](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/system/system/security)
* [Privacy](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/system/system/privacy)
* [**Bitcoin**](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bitcoin/bitcoin)
* [Bitcoin client](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bitcoin/bitcoin/bitcoin-client) (Bitcoin Core)
* [Electrum server](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bitcoin/bitcoin/electrum-server) (Fulcrum)
* [Desktop signing app](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bitcoin/bitcoin/desktop-signing-app-sparrow) (Sparrow Wallet)
* [Blockchain explorer](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bitcoin/bitcoin/blockchain-explorer) (BTC RPC Explorer)
* [**Lightning**](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/lightning/lightning)
* [Lightning client](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/lightning/lightning/lightning-client) (LND)
* [Channel backup](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/lightning/lightning/channel-backup)
* [Web app](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/lightning/lightning/web-app) (ThunderHub)
* [Mobile app](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/lightning/lightning/mobile-app) (Zeus)
* **Bonus guides**
* [**System bonus guide**](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system)
* **Dashboard & Appearance**
* [Pimp the command line](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/command-line)
* [System Overview](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/system-overview)
* **System Administration**
* [Aliases](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/aliases)
* [Statip IP & custom DNS servers](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/static-ip-and-custom-dns-servers)
* **Install / Update / Uninstall common languages**
* [Node.js + NPM](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/nodejs-npm)
* [Rustup + Cargo](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/rustup-+-cargo)
* [Go!](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/go)
* **Databases**
* [PostgreSQL](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/postgresql)
* **Security**
* [SSH Keys](https://minibolt.info/guide/bonus/system/ssh-keys.html)
* [WireGuard VPN](https://minibolt.info/guide/bonus/system/wireguard-VPN.html)
* [Cloudflare Tunnel](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/cloudflare-tunnel)
* **Resilience**
* [Tor services: bridges & relays](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/tor-services)
* **Hardware**
* [Store data in a secondary disk](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/system/store-data-secondary-disk)
* [**Bitcoin bonus guides**](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin)
* **Electrum servers**
* [Electrs](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/electrs)
* **Signing apps**
* **Desktop**
* [Electrum Wallet Desktop](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/electrum-wallet-desktop)
* **Decentralized exchange**
* [Bisq](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/bisq)
* **Resilience**
* [Safu Ninja](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/safu-ninja)
* [Ordisrespector](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/ordisrespector)
* **Fun**
* [Download the white paper](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/white-paper)
* **Testnet**
* [MiniBolt on Testnet](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/minibolt-on-testnet)
* **Payment processors**
* [BTCPay Server](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/btcpay-server)
* [**Nostr bonus guides**](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/nostr)
* **Relays**
* [Nostr relay](https://minibolt.minibolt.info/bonus-guides/bitcoin/nostr-relay)
---
🏗️ [Roadmap](https://github.com/orgs/minibolt-guide/projects/1) | 🌐 [Dynamic Network map](https://app.diagrams.net/?tags={}&lightbox=1&target=blank&highlight=0000ff&edit=_blank&layers=1&nav=1&title=networkmap.drawio.png#Uhttps://raw.githubusercontent.com/minibolt-guide/minibolt/main/resources/networkmap.drawio.png) | 🔧 [Issues](https://github.com/minibolt-guide/minibolt/issues) | 📥 [Pull requests](https://github.com/minibolt-guide/minibolt/pulls) | 🗣️ [Discussions](https://github.com/orgs/minibolt-guide/discussions)
---
By [**⚡2FakTor⚡**](nostr:npub1k9luehc8hg3c0upckdzzvusv66x3zt0eyw7290kclrpsndepz92sfcpp63)
---
**Last updated:** 22/12/2024
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@ a012dc82:6458a70d
2025-02-04 15:49:10
Bitcoin halving is a cornerstone event in the cryptocurrency landscape, occurring approximately every four years, or after every 210,000 blocks are mined. This event is significant because it marks a reduction in the reward that miners receive for adding new blocks to the Bitcoin blockchain, effectively halving the rate at which new bitcoins are generated. The concept of halving is embedded in Bitcoin's protocol by Satoshi Nakamoto, its mysterious creator, as a measure to mimic the scarcity and deflationary characteristics of precious metals like gold. This mechanism is crucial in controlling the supply of Bitcoin, ensuring that it remains finite and valuable. As the next halving event draws near, it's not just miners who are impacted; the entire cryptocurrency market, including investors and enthusiasts, keenly anticipates the potential outcomes. Historically, halving events have been associated with increased market activity, price volatility, and heightened public interest in Bitcoin. The event is seen as a moment of transformation for Bitcoin, where the dynamics of supply and demand are altered, potentially leading to significant shifts in its market value.
**Table Of Content**
- Understanding the Hash Rate Surge
- Implications of the Rising Hash Rate
- The Halving Event: What to Expect
- Preparing for the Halving
- Conclusion
- FAQs
**Understanding the Hash Rate Surge**
**What is Hash Rate?**
The hash rate, in the context of Bitcoin, refers to the total computational power being used to mine and process transactions on the blockchain. It's a vital metric that reflects the health and security of the network. A higher hash rate means that more computational resources are being dedicated to maintaining the network, making it more robust against potential attacks. The hash rate is measured in hashes per second (H/s), and with advancements in mining technology, the network has seen this rate reach exahash levels (1 EH/s = 1 quintillion hashes per second). This metric is crucial for miners, as it affects their chances of solving the mathematical puzzles required to mine new blocks and earn rewards. It also indicates the level of competition among miners, as a higher hash rate suggests more participants or more powerful mining equipment in the network.
**Record-Breaking Levels**
The Bitcoin network's hash rate has recently hit an all-time high, reaching a staggering 491 exahashes per second (EH/s). This surge is indicative of the growing strength and security of the network. Such a high hash rate means that the network is more resilient than ever to potential attacks, such as the 51% attack, where a single entity could potentially gain control over the majority of the network's mining power. This level of security is crucial, especially as Bitcoin continues to gain mainstream acceptance and attract significant institutional investment. The record-breaking hash rate also reflects the increasing global interest in Bitcoin mining. It suggests that despite the high costs associated with mining - including specialized hardware and significant electricity consumption - miners are still heavily investing in this activity. This investment is not just in terms of money but also in research and development of more efficient mining technologies, which could further drive up the hash rate.
**Implications of the Rising Hash Rate**
**Enhanced Network Security**
The surge in Bitcoin's hash rate is a positive development for the network's security. A higher hash rate means that it becomes exponentially more difficult for a malicious actor to orchestrate an attack on the network. This security is paramount for a system that handles billions of dollars worth of transactions. The decentralized nature of Bitcoin relies heavily on the integrity of its blockchain, which is maintained by this collective computational effort. As the hash rate increases, the confidence in the network's security also grows, which is crucial for both individual users and institutional investors. This enhanced security is particularly important in the context of the upcoming halving event, as it ensures the stability and reliability of the network during a period of significant change.
**Increased Mining Difficulty**
With the rise in hash rate comes an increase in the difficulty of mining Bitcoin. The Bitcoin network is designed to adjust the difficulty of mining new blocks approximately every two weeks to ensure that the time between blocks remains around 10 minutes. As more computational power joins the network, the difficulty increases, making it harder for individual miners to solve the cryptographic puzzles required to mine new blocks. This increase in difficulty can have several implications for miners. Smaller miners or those with less efficient equipment may find it increasingly difficult to compete with larger mining operations that have access to more powerful and efficient technology. This could lead to a consolidation in the mining industry, where only the most efficient operations can survive. Additionally, as the difficulty increases, the profitability of mining can decrease, especially if the price of Bitcoin does not increase proportionally. Miners must constantly evaluate their operations' efficiency and electricity costs to ensure continued profitability.
**Energy Consumption Concerns**
The rising hash rate of the Bitcoin network has brought renewed attention to the issue of energy consumption in Bitcoin mining. The process of mining Bitcoin is energy-intensive, as it requires a significant amount of computational power. As the hash rate increases, so does the total energy consumption of the network. This has led to concerns about the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining, especially in regions where electricity is generated from fossil fuels. The debate around Bitcoin's energy consumption is complex. On one hand, proponents argue that much of the energy used for Bitcoin mining comes from renewable sources, and the industry drives innovation in energy efficiency. On the other hand, critics point out that the overall energy consumption is still substantial and could be directed towards other, more productive uses. This debate is likely to continue as the network grows and the hash rate increases, especially in the context of global concerns about climate change and sustainable energy practices.
**The Halving Event: What to Expect**
**Reward Reduction**
The upcoming Bitcoin halving event is a scheduled reduction in the rewards that miners receive for verifying and adding new transactions to the blockchain. This halving reduces the number of new bitcoins created and earned by miners with each new block from 6.25 bitcoins to 3.125 bitcoins. This event occurs every 210,000 blocks, or approximately every four years, and is a fundamental part of Bitcoin's economic model. The halving is designed to mimic the extraction of precious resources, becoming progressively harder and less rewarding over time. This mechanism ensures that the total supply of Bitcoin will never exceed 21 million coins, making Bitcoin a deflationary asset. The halving event is significant because it affects the economics of Bitcoin mining. With the reward halving, the revenue for miners is effectively cut in half overnight. This can lead to a shakeout in the mining industry, as less efficient miners may no longer be profitable and could be forced to shut down their operations.
**Market Impact**
Historically, Bitcoin halving events have been followed by significant price increases. This pattern has led to a common perception that halving events are bullish for Bitcoin's price. The rationale behind this is simple: as the rate of new supply of Bitcoin decreases, and if demand remains constant or increases, the price should theoretically go up. However, it's important to note that financial markets are influenced by a myriad of factors, and the impact of the halving may already be priced in by the time it occurs. Additionally, each halving event occurs in a different macroeconomic environment, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Investors and traders closely watch these events, as they can lead to increased volatility in the market. Some see the halving as an opportunity for long-term investment, while others may speculate on short-term price movements.
**Preparing for the Halving**
**Miner Adaptations**
In anticipation of the halving and its impact on profitability, miners are taking various steps to adapt. One key strategy is the investment in more efficient mining hardware. Newer models of mining rigs offer greater hash power with lower energy consumption, which can help maintain profitability even with reduced rewards. Miners are also exploring alternative sources of revenue, such as transaction fee income, which could become a more significant part of their earnings post-halving. Additionally, miners are looking at geographical relocation to regions with cheaper electricity and favorable regulatory environments to reduce operational costs. Another consideration for miners is the potential consolidation of mining operations. Larger mining pools might have a better chance of surviving the reduced rewards, leading to a more centralized mining landscape. This potential centralization raises concerns within the Bitcoin community, as it could impact the decentralized nature of the network.
**Investor Strategies**
Investors are also preparing for the halving event in various ways. Many are closely analyzing historical data to understand potential market movements, although it's widely acknowledged that past trends may not necessarily predict future outcomes. Some investors view the halving as a key event that could drive long-term value growth in Bitcoin and are adjusting their portfolios accordingly. Others are more cautious, considering the potential for increased volatility around the event. There is also a focus on diversification, with investors looking at other cryptocurrencies and blockchain projects that might benefit from increased interest in the crypto space around the halving. Additionally, institutional investors, who have increasingly entered the cryptocurrency market, are likely to play a significant role in how the market reacts to the halving. Their strategies, which may include hedging and derivative trading, could influence Bitcoin's price dynamics in ways that were not seen in previous halving events.
**Conclusion**
The countdown to the Bitcoin halving is a period of significant anticipation and activity within the cryptocurrency community. The record-breaking hash rate ahead of the event is a testament to the network's strength and the commitment of its participants to maintain and secure the blockchain. As the halving approaches, the crypto world watches with keen interest, eager to see how this pivotal event will shape the future of Bitcoin. Whether it leads to a surge in price, increased adoption, or new challenges for miners, the halving is a reminder of the unique and dynamic nature of cryptocurrency and its underlying technology. As with any major event in the crypto space, the halving presents both opportunities and risks, and how it plays out could have lasting implications for the entire blockchain ecosystem.
**FAQs**
**What is Bitcoin Halving?**
Bitcoin halving is an event that occurs approximately every four years, reducing the reward for mining new Bitcoin blocks by half. This mechanism controls the supply of new bitcoins and is a fundamental part of Bitcoin's economic model.
**Why is the Bitcoin Hash Rate Important?**
The hash rate measures the total computational power used in mining and processing transactions on the Bitcoin network. A higher hash rate indicates a more secure and robust network, making it resistant to attacks.
**What Happens to Bitcoin's Price After Halving?**
Historically, Bitcoin's price has increased following halving events, but this is not guaranteed. Market reactions can be unpredictable, and various factors influence Bitcoin's price.
**How Does Halving Affect Bitcoin Miners?**
Halving reduces the reward miners receive for validating new blocks, impacting their profitability. Miners often need to upgrade to more efficient hardware or find cheaper energy sources to remain competitive.
**Can Bitcoin Halving Lead to Increased Centralization in Mining?**
Potentially, yes. As mining becomes less profitable for smaller operations, there could be a consolidation towards larger mining pools, which might lead to a more centralized mining landscape.
**Is the Increase in Bitcoin's Hash Rate Linked to the Upcoming Halving?**
Yes, the increase in hash rate is often linked to the upcoming halving as miners upgrade their equipment and increase their computational power in anticipation of the reduced mining rewards.
**That's all for today**
**If you want more, be sure to follow us on:**
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***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.***
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@ 0271e1b9:ad8cff90
2025-02-01 07:39:31
**I study the greats.**
For if and when I find myself beaten down into the gutters of life - the vile, bile and the mundane - I shall draw strength from other great men - past, present and future - who, quite often, faced many more adversities and a lot more suffering, but chose to use them to their advantage, to overcome their dire circumstances and rise above the afflictions that life had bestowed upon them. It’s all been done before. It can be done again, better.
Learning from the past and from the present is very straightforward. Anyone can do that. But how does one learn from the future? It’s simple: you envision the best possible future for humanity, for generations to come, and for yourself. Then you figure out an approximate path on how to get there, and what kind of a man or a woman you must be to walk that path. The skills, the mindset, the qualities. And lastly, but perhaps most importantly, you find actionable measures, habits, convictions on how to become that person - and conversely, what are stopping you from becoming that person.
> “You must value learning above everything else.”
― Robert Greene
> “Those who have a 'why' to live, can bear with almost any 'how'.”
― Viktor E. Frankl
> “You need to look at all events as having value. If you can do that, then you’re in a zone of tremendous opportunity.”
― Phil Stutz
> “I shall take the more pains to uncover the fountains of philosophy, from which all my eloquence has taken its rise.”
― Marcus Tullius Cicero
> “Error correction is the basis of all intelligence.”
― Jeff Booth
> “Yes, you’re likely to fail, that’s fine. Because the goal of playing is not to win, but to keep learning. And the day you stop learning is the day you stop living."
― Jesse Enkamp
> "A man is great not because he hasn't failed; a man is great because failure hasn't stopped him."
— Confucius
> “If people knew how hard I had to work to gain my mastery, it would not seem so wonderful at all.”
― Michelangelo
> “First of all we have to decide what we are to do and what manner of men we wish to be - the most difficult problem in the world.”
― Marcus Tullius Cicero
> “You either bleed soul into your work, or let the work bleed out your soul.”
― Pran Yoganthan
> "The Stoic philosopher is the man who has liberated himself from fear. He’s not afraid of death, he’s not afraid of pain, he’s not afraid of other people’s dismissal as a fool. The only thing he cares about is that he should meet his moral obligations.”
― Michael Sugrue
> "The strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must."
― Thucydides
> “The brain is the most powerful weapon in the world.”
― David Goggins
> “Man, the bravest of animals, and the one most accustomed to suffering, does not repudiate suffering as such; he desires it, he even seeks it out, provided he is shown a meaning for it, a purpose of suffering. The meaninglessness of suffering, not suffering itself, was the curse that lay over mankind so far.”
― Friedrich Nietzsche
> "Consciousness is awareness with a choice."
― Thomas Campbell
> “The essence of philosophy is that a man should so live that his happiness shall depend as little as possible on external things.”
― Epictetus
> “It’s most real, it’s most good and it’s most salvific - it saves you, it transforms you. That’s the sacred.”
— John Vervaeke
> “It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.”
― Epictetus
> “Evolution is a process of iteration. There’s no master plan. It’s in each moment of what happens.”
― Michael Behrens
> “Don’t follow anybody and don’t accept anyone as a teacher, except when you become your own teacher and disciple.”
― Jiddu Krishnamurti
> “This is your life. You’re accountable. What are you gonna do about that?”
― James Hollis
By the way, if you enjoyed these quotes, feel free to follow a little side project of mine: [Stoic Resurrection](https://linktr.ee/stoic_resurrection)
*Peace & Love,*
*[Kontext](https://linktr.ee/mckontext)*
*Block height 881,748*
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@ 1833ee04:7c4a8170
2025-02-04 15:14:03
The international race for Bitcoin strategic reserves is just getting started.
If you’re stacking now, you’re still incredibly early.
At $100k per Bitcoin, it’s practically free for anyone who truly understands how massive this shift is.
Think back to when paper currency was introduced, people had to trade their gold for paper bills. Many laughed, saying, Who’s going to trust these worthless pieces of paper as money?
Yet today, you sell your time to earn these paper bills while your government can print an unlimited amount at will.
The world is returning to a gold standard. But this time, it’s Gold 2.0 which is Bitcoin.The international race for Bitcoin strategic reserves is just getting started.\
\
If you’re stacking now, you’re still incredibly early.\
\
At $100k per Bitcoin, it’s practically free for anyone who truly understands how massive this shift is.\
\
Think back to when paper currency was introduced, people had to trade their gold for paper bills. Many laughed, saying, Who’s going to trust these worthless pieces of paper as money?\
\
Yet today, you sell your time to earn these paper bills while your government can print an unlimited amount at will.\
\
The world is returning to a gold standard. But this time, it’s Gold 2.0 which is Bitcoin.
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@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-02-01 05:23:37
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originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/872035
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@ 5af07946:98fca8c4
2025-02-04 15:13:27
Syādvāda, also known as the theory of conditional predication, is a fundamental concept in Jain philosophy that bears some intriguing similarities to modern concepts of probability.
## Conditional Prediction system
Syādvāda is a theory of epistemological relativism that forms the basis of Jain [logic](https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Syadvada). The term "syād" in Sanskrit means "may be" or "perhaps," and in the context of syādvāda, it translates to "in some ways" or "from a perspective". This theory asserts that reality is complex and multifaceted, and no single proposition can fully express its nature.
## Saptabhangi: The Seven-fold Predication
The core of syādvāda is manifested in the process of Saptabhangi, or seven-fold prediction. This approach examines reality from seven different conditional and relative viewpoints:
- Syādasti (maybe, it is)
- Syānnāsti (maybe, it is not)
- Syādasti nāsti (maybe, it is, and it is not)
- Syādavaktavya (maybe, it is indeterminate)
- Syādasti avaktavya (maybe, it is and is indeterminate)
- Syānnāsti avaktavya (maybe, it is not and is indeterminate)
- Syādasti nāsti avaktavya (maybe, it is, is not, and is indeterminate)
## Connections to Probability
Syādvāda shares conceptual similarities with Probability theory:
- Non-absolutism: Like probability theory, syādvāda acknowledges uncertainty and rejects absolute [statements](https://indiaphilosophy.wordpress.com/tag/syadvad/). However, it asserts that there are only seven categories necessary and also sufficient to exhaust all possibilities of knowledge!
- Conditional nature: Both syādvāda and probability deal with conditional statements and [chances](https://jainfriends.tripod.com/books/jiblsyadvada.html)
- Multiple outcomes: Syādvāda's seven-fold prediction can be seen as analogous to considering multiple possible outcomes in probability.
- Indeterminacy: The fourth category of syādvāda, "avaktavya" (indeterminate), has been interpreted by some scholars as having relevance to the concept of probability.
## An Illustrative Example
Consider the tossing of a coin:
- "It is head" (now) - Syādasti
- "It is not-head" (on another occasion) - Syānnāsti
- "It is, and it is not" - Syādasti nāsti
- "It is indeterminate" (before the toss) - Syādavaktavya
This example demonstrates how syādvāda's categories can be applied to a situation involving uncertainty, similar to how we might approach it using probability theory.
## Historical Significance and Modern Relevance
Syādvāda was well-developed by the 6th century AD and received significant attention in medieval Indian logic. It is believed that it was based on astrological principles of Maharishi Parashara - the father of ancient astrology.
-
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@ ee7e3590:5602f192
2025-02-01 05:02:15
You’re hitting on the core tension: **unlimited demand for emergency care collides with finite resources**, and pretending otherwise leads to either runaway costs or rationing-by-stealth. Let’s confront this head-on with free-market-aligned solutions that don’t ignore human realities:
---
### **1. Redefine "Emergency Care"**
The U.S. legally mandates ERs to stabilize *anyone*, regardless of ability to pay (EMTALA). This creates moral hazard:
- **Problem**: Hospitals inflate prices on paying patients to offset uncompensated care.
- **Free-Market Fix**:
- **Repeal EMTALA**: Allow ERs to refuse non-critical cases (e.g., toothaches, rashes) unless prepaid or insured.
- **Clarify "True Emergency"**: Legally define emergencies as *immediate life threats* (e.g., strokes, cardiac arrest) and let non-critical cases be diverted to urgent care.
- **Consequence**: ERs could price transparently for true emergencies, while non-critical cases face market-driven urgent care options.
---
### **2. Embrace Tiered Emergency Care**
Not all emergencies require Level I trauma centers:
- **Basic ERs**: Staffed by NPs and paramedics for minor injuries (e.g., sprains, minor burns) at lower costs.
- **Advanced ERs**: For critical care (e.g., gunshot wounds), priced higher but competing via outcomes (e.g., survival rates).
- **Example**: India’s *Ziqitza Healthcare* operates ambulance tiers—basic vans for transport and advanced ICU units.
---
### **3. **Address Moral Hazard with Insurance Innovation**
- **Catastrophic Insurance Mandates**: Require everyone to carry cheap, high-deductible plans covering *only* true emergencies (e.g., $10/month for coverage above $50k).
- Incentivizes price shopping for non-emergencies.
- Prevents freeloading on ERs.
- **Risk-Adjusted Premiums**: Smokers, skydivers, or diabetics pay higher premiums, aligning costs with personal choices.
---
### **4. **Community-Based Safety Nets**
- **Mutual Aid Networks**: Local groups negotiate bulk ER rates (e.g., $100/month membership covers three ER visits annually).
- **Crowdfunding ER Vouchers**: Platforms like *GoFundMe* could partner with hospitals to prepurchase discounted emergency care slots.
---
### **5. **Radical Transparency + Bankruptcy Reform**
- **ER Debt Auctions**: Let hospitals sell unpaid ER bills to collection agencies in real-time, creating competition to minimize patient liability.
- **Flat-Fee ER Pricing**: Hospitals post rates like “$5,000 for appendicitis stabilization, all-inclusive” to deter surprise billing.
- **Ban Wage Garnishment for Medical Debt**: Protect patients from lifelong ruin, forcing hospitals to price responsibly or absorb losses.
---
### **6. **Accept Trade-Offs Explicitly**
The U.S. system fails because it hides rationing behind complexity. A free-market approach must embrace transparency:
- **Option 1**: Pay $100,000 for a 95% survival rate in a car crash.
- **Option 2**: Pay $20,000 for a 70% survival rate at a budget ER.
- **Brutal but Honest**: Let individuals (or insurers) choose their risk tolerance upfront.
**Example**:
- **Japan’s Price Controls**: Caps ER costs but tolerates wait times (e.g., 8+ hours for non-critical care).
- **Switzerland’s Mandates**: Everyone buys insurance, but ERs charge $1,000+ deductibles to deter overuse.
---
### **7. **Disrupt with Decentralized Care**
- **Crypto-ERs**: Blockchain-based emergency funds where contributors vote on covering members’ bills.
- **AI-Guided Self-Care**: Apps that stabilize patients en route to ERs (e.g., tourniquet tutorials, overdose reversal guidance).
---
### **8. **Reform Malpractice to Reduce Defensive Medicine**
- **“No Pay, No Harm” Liability**: If a patient doesn’t pay, they can’t sue for malpractice (incentivizing upfront pricing).
- **Safe Harbor Protocols**: ERs using approved, cost-effective treatments (e.g., generics) get immunity from lawsuits.
---
### **The Uncomfortable Truth**
A free market in emergency care requires accepting that **not everyone will be saved**—just as not everyone can afford a Ferrari. The alternative is the current U.S. model, which *pretends* to save everyone but bankrupts millions and still leaves 30% of ER visits unmet due to overcrowding.
By legalizing tiered care, deregulating monopolies, and forcing transparency, you create a system where:
- **Elites** pay premium prices for cutting-edge emergency care.
- **Most** get “good enough” stabilization at reasonable costs.
- **Some** choose cheap, high-risk options (or none at all).
This isn’t pretty, but it’s honest—and arguably more ethical than today’s hidden rationing and financial toxicity.
-
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-04 14:14:39
My best day yet: it's been 17 hours since I ate or drank anything.
I'm about to have my coffee and I'll probably eat soon after that.
I would have gone longer without food yesterday, but we had cookies in the house and I wanted to eat some before I finished my morning coffee.
Fast February Data
Day 1: 14 hours (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hours (14 dry)
Day 3: 17 hours (16 dry)
Day 4: TBD (17 dry)
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/875506
-
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@ ee7e3590:5602f192
2025-02-01 05:00:39
You’re hitting on the core tension: **unlimited demand for emergency care collides with finite resources**, and pretending otherwise leads to either runaway costs or rationing-by-stealth. Let’s confront this head-on with free-market-aligned solutions that don’t ignore human realities:
---
### **1. Redefine "Emergency Care"**
The U.S. legally mandates ERs to stabilize *anyone*, regardless of ability to pay (EMTALA). This creates moral hazard:
- **Problem**: Hospitals inflate prices on paying patients to offset uncompensated care.
- **Free-Market Fix**:
- **Repeal EMTALA**: Allow ERs to refuse non-critical cases (e.g., toothaches, rashes) unless prepaid or insured.
- **Clarify "True Emergency"**: Legally define emergencies as *immediate life threats* (e.g., strokes, cardiac arrest) and let non-critical cases be diverted to urgent care.
- **Consequence**: ERs could price transparently for true emergencies, while non-critical cases face market-driven urgent care options.
---
### **2. Embrace Tiered Emergency Care**
Not all emergencies require Level I trauma centers:
- **Basic ERs**: Staffed by NPs and paramedics for minor injuries (e.g., sprains, minor burns) at lower costs.
- **Advanced ERs**: For critical care (e.g., gunshot wounds), priced higher but competing via outcomes (e.g., survival rates).
- **Example**: India’s *Ziqitza Healthcare* operates ambulance tiers—basic vans for transport and advanced ICU units.
---
### **3. **Address Moral Hazard with Insurance Innovation**
- **Catastrophic Insurance Mandates**: Require everyone to carry cheap, high-deductible plans covering *only* true emergencies (e.g., $10/month for coverage above $50k).
- Incentivizes price shopping for non-emergencies.
- Prevents freeloading on ERs.
- **Risk-Adjusted Premiums**: Smokers, skydivers, or diabetics pay higher premiums, aligning costs with personal choices.
---
### **4. **Community-Based Safety Nets**
- **Mutual Aid Networks**: Local groups negotiate bulk ER rates (e.g., $100/month membership covers three ER visits annually).
- **Crowdfunding ER Vouchers**: Platforms like *GoFundMe* could partner with hospitals to prepurchase discounted emergency care slots.
---
### **5. **Radical Transparency + Bankruptcy Reform**
- **ER Debt Auctions**: Let hospitals sell unpaid ER bills to collection agencies in real-time, creating competition to minimize patient liability.
- **Flat-Fee ER Pricing**: Hospitals post rates like “$5,000 for appendicitis stabilization, all-inclusive” to deter surprise billing.
- **Ban Wage Garnishment for Medical Debt**: Protect patients from lifelong ruin, forcing hospitals to price responsibly or absorb losses.
---
### **6. **Accept Trade-Offs Explicitly**
The U.S. system fails because it hides rationing behind complexity. A free-market approach must embrace transparency:
- **Option 1**: Pay $100,000 for a 95% survival rate in a car crash.
- **Option 2**: Pay $20,000 for a 70% survival rate at a budget ER.
- **Brutal but Honest**: Let individuals (or insurers) choose their risk tolerance upfront.
**Example**:
- **Japan’s Price Controls**: Caps ER costs but tolerates wait times (e.g., 8+ hours for non-critical care).
- **Switzerland’s Mandates**: Everyone buys insurance, but ERs charge $1,000+ deductibles to deter overuse.
---
### **7. **Disrupt with Decentralized Care**
- **Crypto-ERs**: Blockchain-based emergency funds where contributors vote on covering members’ bills.
- **AI-Guided Self-Care**: Apps that stabilize patients en route to ERs (e.g., tourniquet tutorials, overdose reversal guidance).
---
### **8. **Reform Malpractice to Reduce Defensive Medicine**
- **“No Pay, No Harm” Liability**: If a patient doesn’t pay, they can’t sue for malpractice (incentivizing upfront pricing).
- **Safe Harbor Protocols**: ERs using approved, cost-effective treatments (e.g., generics) get immunity from lawsuits.
---
### **The Uncomfortable Truth**
A free market in emergency care requires accepting that **not everyone will be saved**—just as not everyone can afford a Ferrari. The alternative is the current U.S. model, which *pretends* to save everyone but bankrupts millions and still leaves 30% of ER visits unmet due to overcrowding.
By legalizing tiered care, deregulating monopolies, and forcing transparency, you create a system where:
- **Elites** pay premium prices for cutting-edge emergency care.
- **Most** get “good enough” stabilization at reasonable costs.
- **Some** choose cheap, high-risk options (or none at all).
This isn’t pretty, but it’s honest—and arguably more ethical than today’s hidden rationing and financial toxicity.
-

@ 916a7ab7:146bb83e
2025-02-04 13:35:11
It was not ago that my life was simpler than it is today.
I remember being a simple clone, droning on through a structured life as I'd been trained to do since birth.
Like most people I knew, I was raised in a world where you were mentally prepared for a conceptually simple life:
1. Finish high school, if possible.
2. Go to college, if possible.
3. Find a job.
4. Earn money.
5. Pay bills.
6. Get married.
7. Start a family.
8. Pay more bills.
9. Raise family and (hopefully) launch the kids.
10. Plan to retire, but expect to work into your 70s.
It was a programmed formula for life. A generational blueprint, if you will. Sure, there would be unpredictable details, but I expected my life to follow this path.
As I plodded along through my fairly boring life, I checked most of those things off the list. High school was easy, but getting off the farm was not. Enlisting in the military solved that problem, and the pay in the mid-1990s wasn't bad for a 17 year old kid with no bills. I got paid every two weeks, lived in the barracks, and spent most of my money on booze. Life was good, and I had no other purpose than to do my job and keep earning money.
Before I knew it, though, everything changed. I got married, had some kids and accumulated a mountain of debt. Like my parents before me, I was stuck in a never ending cycle of working my ass off, paying bills, buying food, and trying to save what little money was left over for a future that was unpredictable at best. Financial struggles stressed our marriage, the kids continued eating more and more food, and then 2008 tanked the value of our home. That was the first nudge that stirred my oblivious slumber.
And there was more to come. Rising taxes, inflation, the clown show at the federal reserve, the wars funded by central banks, an astronomical national debt, and the burdens of our mistakes weighing down the futures of our children. Not to mention a federal government that actively seeks to censor, suppress, and financially imprison its own people. The times exuded chaos.
Then a few months ago, I woke up...
It happened during an episode of The Tuttle Twins, a cartoon show from Angel Studios. I homeschool my three youngest kids, and I'd let them watch TV during lunch so I could grade some papers. This cartoon was new to me, but the kids liked the music and the crazy raccoon. As fate would have it, they ended up watching an episode about Bitcoin. This, of course, led to a long series of questions:
"Dad, what's Bitcoin?"
"Is Bitcoin real?"
"Do you have Bitcoin?"
"Can I get Bitcoin for allowance instead of dollars?"
I had no answers for these questions, so we started doing some research together. We turned on our Chromebooks and launched a barrage of web searches. After reading a bunch of articles I came away with the idea that Bitcoin might be a real thing. Later that evening, and after the kids were in bed, I couldn't stop thinking about Bitcoin. I honestly didn't understand half of what I read in those articles, which bothered me. I'm not a super smart guy, but I catch on to things pretty quickly, and I wanted to better understand what I'd read. I expanded my search to podcasts and YouTube videos.
I ended up listening to a couple episodes from a Bitcoin Veterans podcast. As a veteran myself, I figured that this group of Bitcoin-savvy veterans would be able to help me figure out all this madness. I was right. I quickly learned that the word "Bitcoin" was just the tip of the iceberg, and I quickly found myself falling through an endless rabbit hole. They pointed me in a lot of different directions, but they were all helpful. (If you're a US military veteran and want to connect with this group, find them at [bitcoinveterans.org].)
A couple months ago, I couldn't tell you the difference between a Bitcoin and a meme coin. I'd come across the phrase Bitcoin mining, and I just thought there was a special group of people who mined a special metal to create coins with a big "B" on them. Why couldn't they just use the metal we already mined? Sheesh! I thought nostr was a virus, and a Kraken was still a giant squid.
As of today, I'm happy to say that I've made a little bit of progress. Those things above no longer confuse me, and I actually have a little bit of Bitcoin now. Sure, I'm still trying to wrap my head around NFTs and figure out who the Pepe frog man is, but I'm no longer completely lost. Not to mention, I just spent most of the last 24 hours figuring this whole nostr thing out, which excites me. I kind of missed the boat on the big name social media platforms, so I'm looking forward to this new decentralized approach to things.
For now, I'm just happy to be awake. Finally. I see the need for decentralization and the necessity of moving away from fiat monies. I don't have much to offer except my intellect and my love of writing, but I'm here to serve in any way that I can.
-
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@ 000002de:c05780a7
2025-01-30 21:17:26
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> The Debian Publicity Team will no longer post on X/Twitter. We took this decision since we feel X doesn't reflect Debian shared values as stated in our social contract, code of conduct and diversity statement. X evolved into a place where people we care about don't feel safe.
A couple red flags in this post that explain their actions.
1. Shared values - projects that have broad values statements are prone to isolation over time
2. Social contract - that's a meaningless vapid term
I have no issue with code of conduct guidelines or having value statements but when you pick sides on cultural divides and things that are not at all related to the logical objective of a project you are going to end up where Debian has landed.
X has its issues, I'm not a fan but the reasoning behind this seems really off.
One Debian user responded with what I thought was a good summary of why this is a bad move.
> I'm a long-time Debian user and fan, and am also one of the champions for using Debian in space-based applications at NASA.
> IMO this is a short-sighted and foolish decision. The notion of "values" is bring sadly misapplied here.
> I urge you to reconsider. More channels of communication, even with those whom you disagree with, is good for both Debian and your user community.
I'm not into the "anti-woke" or "woke" crap and I dare say most people that use Linux do not care about either side very much at all. A loud minority has been gaining power in these types of projects for a long time. Today we have very loud counters to that group that also can be annoying and out of line.
Will be interesting to watch this all unfold over the next few years. Conservatives seem to be running victory laps and I think that's not only premature but also counter-productive.
I can see leaving X for other reasons.
* Debian users are really using it to communicate with the project
* The Debian publicity team isn't seeing very much of a response for their efforts
* X has become more about politics than tech and communication
* Specific examples of how X is causing issues for the project
They do say this
> X evolved into a place where people we care about don't feel safe.
That's too bad but honestly I don't buy it. Maybe I don't spend enough time on X to have much credibility on this but I'm skeptical of this being the case.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/870437
-
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@ ef1e59bf:b686587d
2025-02-04 11:15:10
## Key Insights Explained
While both systems provide innovative soilless growing solutions, the unique difference lies in their approach—hydroponics relies on a nutrient-rich water solution, whereas aquaponics integrates fish into the ecosystem to naturally supply nutrients. This not only impacts their cultivation techniques but also illustrates varying levels of sustainability and resource use.
In exploring these systems, one cannot help but consider the broader implications for urban agriculture. For those looking to adopt such systems, understanding key differences can significantly impact decisions on efficiency, cost, and ecological footprint.
##### What Is Hydroponics?
In hydroponics, we grow plants in water enriched with nutrients rather than soil. This method provides a controlled environment where the roots receive all necessary elements directly from the nutrient solution. It's fascinating how plants can thrive without ever touching the soil.
The benefits of hydroponics are impressive. We can achieve faster growth rates due to optimal nutrient delivery, and the space-saving designs, such as vertical farms, maximise small areas. Moreover, nutrient levels can be controlled precisely, ensuring plants receive exactly what they need.
##### What Is Aquaponics?
Aquaponics is an innovative system that blends aquaculture, which is the practice of raising fish, with hydroponics, the soilless cultivation of plants. In this symbiotic setup, fish waste serves as a natural fertiliser, supplying essential nutrients to the plants. In return, the plants help purify the water, creating a healthy environment for the fish.
This system is unique because it mimics natural ecosystems, enhancing sustainability. The dual benefits of growing plants and fish simultaneously make aquaponics an attractive option for those of us interested in sustainable agriculture and promoting organic cultivation practices.
##### Key Differences
Hydroponics and aquaponics each offer unique benefits and challenges. Understanding these systems requires examining their differences in nutrient sources, water usage, plant growth density, time to harvest, setup intricacies, and the types of produce they best support.
##### Nutrient Source
In hydroponics, plants receive nutrients through specially prepared solutions, often purchased from commercial suppliers. This method allows us to maintain a high level of control over nutrient balance, making precise adjustments as needed.
Aquaponics, by contrast, relies on fish waste to supply nutrients. This forms a more natural ecosystem, requiring biological processes like nitrification to convert waste into nutrients usable by plants. While this approach involves fewer chemical inputs and is more sustainable, it offers less control over nutrient levels.
##### Water Usage
Hydroponic systems excel in water efficiency by recirculating water, though they necessitate regular changes to keep nutrient solutions balanced. Despite their efficiency, water loss can occur through evaporation or leaks, which requires monitoring.
Aquaponics operates as a closed-loop system where water is continually recycled between the fish tank and plant beds, minimising waste. This setup further reduces water use due to natural filtration by plants, making it an incredibly water-efficient choice.
##### Grow Density
Hydroponics typically supports higher density plant growth, especially in vertical setups. This is ideal for cultivating leafy greens, herbs, and other fast-growing plants in compact spaces.
Aquaponics requires space for both fish and plants, which limits plant density. Although some plants may grow slower due to varying nutrient availability, this method offers the benefit of integrating fish care into the system.
##### Grow Time
In hydroponics, plants enjoy faster growth rates thanks to controlled nutrient and environmental conditions. These systems often facilitate shorter growing cycles compared to traditional farming, enhancing efficiency.
Aquaponics, while efficient, may experience slightly slower growth rates due to the time taken for natural nutrient conversion. Balancing fish growth with plant cycles adds an extra layer of complexity but is a rewarding experience for those willing to engage deeply with the system.
##### Set Up and Maintenance
Starting a hydroponic system is relatively straightforward, with pumps, nutrient tanks, and light management being primary needs. Regular checks of pH, nutrient levels, and water are essential yet generally simple.
Aquaponics demands more initial infrastructure and expertise due to the need for integrated fish tanks and plant systems. Balancing fish health and water quality with plant needs adds complexity, but long-term sustainability benefits are significant. Setting up these systems can seem daunting but offer reduced external nutrient input over time.
##### Produce Types
Hydroponics shines when growing leafy greens and herbs, achieving high success rates with crops like lettuce, basil, and spinach. These systems, however, have limitations when it comes to larger or more nutrient-demanding produce.
Aquaponics expands possibilities by supporting a broader range of plants, including fruiting ones such as tomatoes, alongside fish like tilapia or trout. This dual-production feature offers diverse yields, though the choice of fish can influence plant variety.
##### Which Is More Sustainable?
When we consider the sustainability of hydroponics, several factors come to mind. First, high water efficiency and space-saving designs make it attractive for eco-conscious growers. Yet, the reliance on artificial nutrients and the higher energy usage, particularly for lighting and pumps, may impact its overall eco-friendliness. These elements can sometimes offset the system’s environmental benefits.
In contrast, aquaponics offers a unique closed-loop system that naturally recycles waste. This can significantly reduce the need for external inputs, aligning well with principles of organic farming. While this method requires more space and careful maintenance for both fish and plants, it typically involves less chemical intervention, appealing to those seeking a more natural approach.
###### Let's compare the environmental impact of these methods:
* Aquaponics might have a lower environmental footprint due to its natural nutrient cycle, reducing waste and chemical use.
* On the other hand, hydroponics can be well-suited for urban environments or locations with limited resources, thanks to its efficient use of water and space.
Ultimately, deciding which system is more sustainable depends on specific circumstances and priorities. If natural nutrient cycles and less chemical intervention are valued, aquaponics might be favoured. Nevertheless, if water and space efficiency are paramount, especially in urban settings, hydroponics might be more suitable.
Hydroponics is a game-changer for sustainable farming, offering efficient water use, reduced land impact, and year-round crop production. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grower, having the right tools and knowledge is key to success. Visit [Hyjo ](https://hyjo.co.uk/)for high-quality hydroponic systems, nutrients, and expert advice. Start growing smarter and greener with Hyjo today!
-
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@ 1cb14ab3:95d52462
2025-01-30 18:45:41
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---
#### Other Photo Series by Hes:
[City Series](https://hes.npub.pro/post/1734817611982/)
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---
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[Travel Guides](https://hes.npub.pro/tag/travel/)
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---
*All images are credit of Hes, but you are free to download and use for any purpose. If you find joy from these photos, please feel free to send a zap. Enjoy life on a Bitcoin standard.*
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@ 177ff913:b25cacc0
2025-02-04 08:47:39
NUX88 là một nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến nổi bật, mang đến cho người dùng những trải nghiệm thú vị và an toàn. Giao diện của NUX88 được thiết kế với phong cách hiện đại và tối ưu hóa cho mọi thiết bị, từ máy tính để bàn đến điện thoại di động. Người dùng có thể dễ dàng truy cập vào nền tảng và tận hưởng các dịch vụ giải trí mà không gặp phải bất kỳ khó khăn nào. NUX88 cam kết cung cấp một hệ thống ổn định với tốc độ truy cập nhanh chóng, giúp người dùng tham gia vào các hoạt động giải trí mà không lo bị gián đoạn.
Bảo mật là một trong những yếu tố quan trọng mà <a href="https://nux88.cc">NUX88</a> luôn chú trọng. Nền tảng này sử dụng công nghệ mã hóa tiên tiến để bảo vệ toàn bộ thông tin cá nhân và giao dịch của người dùng. Dữ liệu tài khoản, thông tin thanh toán và các giao dịch đều được xử lý một cách bảo mật và an toàn tuyệt đối. NUX88 cam kết không chia sẻ bất kỳ thông tin cá nhân nào của người dùng cho bên thứ ba mà không có sự đồng ý rõ ràng. Nền tảng cũng liên tục cập nhật các biện pháp bảo mật mới nhất để ngăn chặn các mối đe dọa từ bên ngoài, tạo ra một môi trường giải trí trực tuyến an toàn và đáng tin cậy.
Với NUX88, dịch vụ chăm sóc khách hàng luôn được ưu tiên hàng đầu. Đội ngũ hỗ trợ của NUX88 luôn sẵn sàng giải đáp mọi thắc mắc và cung cấp sự trợ giúp cho người dùng 24/7. Người dùng có thể liên hệ với đội ngũ hỗ trợ qua nhiều kênh khác nhau như chat trực tuyến, email hoặc điện thoại. Đội ngũ chăm sóc khách hàng tại NUX88 được đào tạo chuyên nghiệp và tận tâm, luôn cố gắng mang đến sự hỗ trợ nhanh chóng và hiệu quả. Điều này giúp đảm bảo rằng mọi vấn đề của người dùng sẽ được giải quyết kịp thời và mang lại sự hài lòng cao nhất.
Bên cạnh việc cung cấp các dịch vụ giải trí chất lượng, NUX88 cũng đặc biệt chú trọng đến việc tạo ra các chương trình khuyến mãi hấp dẫn và ưu đãi đặc biệt cho người dùng. Các chương trình này không chỉ mang đến cho người tham gia những phần thưởng giá trị mà còn giúp nâng cao giá trị trải nghiệm. NUX88 luôn cập nhật các sự kiện khuyến mãi và ưu đãi mới, giúp người dùng có cơ hội nhận thêm nhiều lợi ích khi tham gia vào các hoạt động giải trí trên nền tảng. Những chương trình này thường xuyên được tổ chức để mang đến sự mới mẻ và hấp dẫn, khuyến khích người dùng quay lại và tận hưởng dịch vụ.
Cuối cùng, NUX88 cam kết mang đến một nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến đáng tin cậy và chất lượng. Với giao diện dễ sử dụng, bảo mật mạnh mẽ, dịch vụ chăm sóc khách hàng tận tâm và các chương trình khuyến mãi hấp dẫn, NUX88 là một sự lựa chọn lý tưởng cho những ai tìm kiếm một không gian giải trí an toàn và phong phú. Nền tảng này không chỉ cung cấp những phút giây thư giãn tuyệt vời mà còn đảm bảo sự an toàn, bảo mật tuyệt đối cho người dùng. NUX88 chắc chắn sẽ là một người bạn đồng hành đáng tin cậy trong mọi hành trình giải trí trực tuyến của bạn.
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@ cc8d072e:a6a026cb
2025-01-30 17:20:24
Recently, I had the opportunity to work as an advisor for an AI agent project, which is created by team with a lot of fin-tech software develop experience. As we coded together, their real-time questions and challenges provided unique insights into the hurdles software engineers face when transitioning to AI development. They would pause at moments that most AI engineers take for granted - "How can we be sure the agent understood correctly?", "What if the model makes a mistake?", "How do we handle the uncertainty?" These weren't just isolated questions; they represented the fundamental paradigm shift required when moving from traditional software engineering to AI development. And thats why i think it might be worthy to take sometime write down this article and if you are going to start your first AI agent programming, spending 5 min reading t his will save you a lot of time later.
### 1. Shifting from Deterministic to Probabilistic Thinking
- Traditional software engineering deals with deterministic outcomes
- AI systems operate on probability rather than certainty
- Engineers need to adapt from "100% correct" mindset to accepting probabilistic outcomes
- Blockchain developers may find this particularly challenging due to their background in exact, deterministic systems
### 2. Understanding Core AI Concepts
(There are a lot of concepts to understand, but i will focus on the most frequently asked ones)
#### Memory Management
- **Short-term Memory**: Implemented through conversation context
- **Long-term Memory**: Implemented through vector databases (RAG - Retrieval Augmented Generation)
- Context length management is crucial due to LLM token limitations
#### Language Models and Fine-tuning
- Base models (like GPT) provide general intelligence
- Domain-specific knowledge can be added through:
- Fine-tuning with custom datasets
- Adding RAG layers for specific knowledge domains
### 3. Technical Framework Knowledge
#### Essential Tools and Frameworks
- Vercel AI SDK (if you are a typescript guy)
- LangChain (alternative option)
- Different models(openai, claude, gemini, etc, of course, now, deepseek. the temu in llm )
- Understanding of prompt engineering
#### Multi-Agent Systems
- Agents can communicate through natural language
- Inter-agent communication requires careful system design
- Implementation of thought processes and decision-making loops
- Safety considerations for system commands and operations
### 4. Language and Localization Considerations
- System prompts typically work best in English
- Multi-language support requires careful handling:
- Input translation to English
- Processing in English
- Output translation to target language
- Model performance varies across different languages
### 5. Safety and Error Handling
- Implementing validation layers for critical operations
- Understanding model limitations and potential errors
- Building feedback mechanisms to detect misunderstandings
## Conclusion
Transitioning from software engineering to AI engineering requires a significant mindset shift. While traditional software engineering skills remain valuable, understanding probabilistic systems, language models, and AI-specific architectures is crucial. The key is to balance innovation with practical safety considerations, especially when dealing with critical applications.
Remember that AI systems are not perfect, and building robust applications requires careful consideration of their limitations and appropriate safety measures. Start with existing frameworks and gradually build up complexity as you become more comfortable with AI-specific concepts and challenges.(the conclusion part is written by chatgpt, did you notice? :))
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@ 177ff913:b25cacc0
2025-02-04 08:46:38
MCW77 là một nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến uy tín, được thiết kế để mang đến cho người dùng trải nghiệm giải trí tuyệt vời và mượt mà. Với giao diện hiện đại, dễ sử dụng và tối ưu hóa cho cả thiết bị di động và máy tính để bàn, người dùng có thể dễ dàng truy cập vào nền tảng và tham gia vào các hoạt động giải trí. MCW77 cam kết cung cấp một hệ thống hoạt động ổn định và tốc độ truy cập nhanh chóng, đảm bảo không có gián đoạn trong suốt quá trình sử dụng dịch vụ. Người dùng sẽ được tận hưởng trải nghiệm giải trí liên tục và không gặp phải các vấn đề về kết nối hay tốc độ.
Bảo mật luôn là một yếu tố quan trọng tại <a href="https://mcw77-vn.com">MCW77</a>. Nền tảng này áp dụng các công nghệ bảo mật tiên tiến, giúp bảo vệ mọi giao dịch và thông tin cá nhân của người dùng. Mọi dữ liệu, từ thông tin đăng nhập đến các giao dịch tài chính, đều được mã hóa và xử lý một cách an toàn. MCW77 cam kết không bao giờ chia sẻ thông tin cá nhân của người dùng cho bên thứ ba mà không có sự đồng ý rõ ràng. Nền tảng này cũng liên tục cập nhật các biện pháp bảo mật mới để chống lại các mối đe dọa từ bên ngoài, đảm bảo người dùng luôn có một không gian giải trí an toàn và đáng tin cậy.
Một yếu tố không thể thiếu trong mọi nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến là dịch vụ khách hàng. MCW77 hiểu rõ tầm quan trọng của dịch vụ hỗ trợ và luôn cố gắng nâng cao chất lượng chăm sóc khách hàng. Đội ngũ hỗ trợ của MCW77 luôn sẵn sàng giải đáp mọi thắc mắc và cung cấp sự trợ giúp 24/7. Người dùng có thể dễ dàng liên hệ qua nhiều kênh khác nhau như chat trực tuyến, email hoặc điện thoại. Đội ngũ hỗ trợ của MCW77 luôn đáp ứng nhanh chóng và hiệu quả mọi yêu cầu, từ đó mang đến sự hài lòng tuyệt đối cho khách hàng.
MCW77 cũng rất chú trọng đến việc mang đến các chương trình khuyến mãi và ưu đãi hấp dẫn cho người dùng. Những chương trình này không chỉ giúp người dùng tận hưởng thêm lợi ích khi tham gia vào các dịch vụ mà còn tạo thêm động lực và sự hứng khởi khi trải nghiệm nền tảng. Các sự kiện và khuyến mãi được tổ chức thường xuyên và luôn có những phần thưởng giá trị, giúp người dùng có thể tối đa hóa giá trị giải trí của mình. MCW77 cam kết liên tục cải thiện và cập nhật các chương trình khuyến mãi để mang đến những cơ hội tuyệt vời cho người dùng.
Cuối cùng, MCW77 không ngừng nỗ lực nâng cao chất lượng dịch vụ để đáp ứng nhu cầu giải trí của người dùng. Với sự kết hợp hoàn hảo giữa giao diện thân thiện, bảo mật mạnh mẽ, dịch vụ chăm sóc khách hàng chuyên nghiệp và các chương trình khuyến mãi hấp dẫn, MCW77 đã và đang trở thành một trong những nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến hàng đầu. Người dùng không chỉ được tận hưởng những phút giây thư giãn tuyệt vời mà còn được đảm bảo an toàn tuyệt đối khi tham gia vào các hoạt động trên nền tảng. MCW77 xứng đáng là lựa chọn lý tưởng cho những ai tìm kiếm một không gian giải trí trực tuyến đẳng cấp và đáng tin cậy.
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@ 97c70a44:ad98e322
2025-01-30 17:15:37
There was a slight dust up recently over a website someone runs removing a listing for an app someone built based on entirely arbitrary criteria. I'm not to going to attempt to speak for either wounded party, but I would like to share my own personal definition for what constitutes a "nostr app" in an effort to help clarify what might be an otherwise confusing and opaque purity test.
In this post, I will be committing the "no true Scotsman" fallacy, in which I start with the most liberal definition I can come up with, and gradually refine it until all that is left is the purest, gleamingest, most imaginary and unattainable nostr app imaginable. As I write this, I wonder if anything built yet will actually qualify. In any case, here we go.
# It uses nostr
The lowest bar for what a "nostr app" might be is an app ("application" - i.e. software, not necessarily a native app of any kind) that has some nostr-specific code in it, but which doesn't take any advantage of what makes nostr distinctive as a protocol.
Examples might include a scraper of some kind which fulfills its charter by fetching data from relays (regardless of whether it validates or retains signatures). Another might be a regular web 2.0 app which provides an option to "log in with nostr" by requesting and storing the user's public key.
In either case, the fact that nostr is involved is entirely neutral. A scraper can scrape html, pdfs, jsonl, whatever data source - nostr relays are just another target. Likewise, a user's key in this scenario is treated merely as an opaque identifier, with no appreciation for the super powers it brings along.
In most cases, this kind of app only exists as a marketing ploy, or less cynically, because it wants to get in on the hype of being a "nostr app", without the developer quite understanding what that means, or having the budget to execute properly on the claim.
# It leverages nostr
Some of you might be wondering, "isn't 'leverage' a synonym for 'use'?" And you would be right, but for one connotative difference. It's possible to "use" something improperly, but by definition leverage gives you a mechanical advantage that you wouldn't otherwise have. This is the second category of "nostr app".
This kind of app gets some benefit out of the nostr protocol and network, but in an entirely selfish fashion. The intention of this kind of app is not to augment the nostr network, but to augment its own UX by borrowing some nifty thing from the protocol without really contributing anything back.
Some examples might include:
- Using nostr signers to encrypt or sign data, and then store that data on a proprietary server.
- Using nostr relays as a kind of low-code backend, but using proprietary event payloads.
- Using nostr event kinds to represent data (why), but not leveraging the trustlessness that buys you.
An application in this category might even communicate to its users via nostr DMs - but this doesn't make it a "nostr app" any more than a website that emails you hot deals on herbal supplements is an "email app". These apps are purely parasitic on the nostr ecosystem.
In the long-term, that's not necessarily a bad thing. Email's ubiquity is self-reinforcing. But in the short term, this kind of "nostr app" can actually do damage to nostr's reputation by over-promising and under-delivering.
# It complements nostr
Next up, we have apps that get some benefit out of nostr as above, but give back by providing a unique value proposition to nostr users as nostr users. This is a bit of a fine distinction, but for me this category is for apps which focus on solving problems that nostr isn't good at solving, leaving the nostr integration in a secondary or supporting role.
One example of this kind of app was Mutiny (RIP), which not only allowed users to sign in with nostr, but also pulled those users' social graphs so that users could send money to people they knew and trusted. Mutiny was doing a great job of leveraging nostr, as well as providing value to users with nostr identities - but it was still primarily a bitcoin wallet, not a "nostr app" in the purest sense.
Other examples are things like Nostr Nests and Zap.stream, whose core value proposition is streaming video or audio content. Both make great use of nostr identities, data formats, and relays, but they're primarily streaming apps. A good litmus test for things like this is: if you got rid of nostr, would it be the same product (even if inferior in certain ways)?
A similar category is infrastructure providers that benefit nostr by their existence (and may in fact be targeted explicitly at nostr users), but do things in a centralized, old-web way; for example: media hosts, DNS registrars, hosting providers, and CDNs.
To be clear here, I'm not casting aspersions (I don't even know what those are, or where to buy them). All the apps mentioned above use nostr to great effect, and are a real benefit to nostr users. But they are not True Scotsmen.
# It embodies nostr
Ok, here we go. This is the crème de la crème, the top du top, the meilleur du meilleur, the bee's knees. The purest, holiest, most chaste category of nostr app out there. The apps which are, indeed, nostr indigitate.
This category of nostr app (see, no quotes this time) can be defined by the converse of the previous category. If nostr was removed from this type of application, would it be impossible to create the same product?
To tease this apart a bit, apps that leverage the technical aspects of nostr are dependent on nostr the *protocol*, while apps that benefit nostr exclusively via network effect are integrated into nostr the *network*. An app that does both things is working in symbiosis with nostr as a whole.
An app that embraces both nostr's protocol and its network becomes an organic extension of every other nostr app out there, multiplying both its competitive moat and its contribution to the ecosystem:
- In contrast to apps that only borrow from nostr on the technical level but continue to operate in their own silos, an application integrated into the nostr network comes pre-packaged with existing users, and is able to provide more value to those users because of other nostr products. On nostr, it's a good thing to advertise your competitors.
- In contrast to apps that only market themselves to nostr users without building out a deep integration on the protocol level, a deeply integrated app becomes an asset to every other nostr app by becoming an organic extension of them through interoperability. This results in increased traffic to the app as other developers and users refer people to it instead of solving their problem on their own. This is the "micro-apps" utopia we've all been waiting for.
Credible exit doesn't matter if there aren't alternative services. Interoperability is pointless if other applications don't offer something your app doesn't. Marketing to nostr users doesn't matter if you don't augment their agency _as nostr users_.
If I had to choose a single NIP that represents the mindset behind this kind of app, it would be NIP 89 A.K.A. "Recommended Application Handlers", which states:
> Nostr's discoverability and transparent event interaction is one of its most interesting/novel mechanics. This NIP provides a simple way for clients to discover applications that handle events of a specific kind to ensure smooth cross-client and cross-kind interactions.
These handlers are the glue that holds nostr apps together. A single event, signed by the developer of an application (or by the application's own account) tells anyone who wants to know 1. what event kinds the app supports, 2. how to link to the app (if it's a client), and (if the pubkey also publishes a kind 10002), 3. which relays the app prefers.
_As a sidenote, NIP 89 is currently focused more on clients, leaving DVMs, relays, signers, etc somewhat out in the cold. Updating 89 to include tailored listings for each kind of supporting app would be a huge improvement to the protocol. This, plus a good front end for navigating these listings (sorry nostrapp.link, close but no cigar) would obviate the evil centralized websites that curate apps based on arbitrary criteria._
Examples of this kind of app obviously include many kind 1 clients, as well as clients that attempt to bring the benefits of the nostr protocol and network to new use cases - whether long form content, video, image posts, music, emojis, recipes, project management, or any other "content type".
To drill down into one example, let's think for a moment about forms. What's so great about a forms app that is built on nostr? Well,
- There is a [spec](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/pull/1190) for forms and responses, which means that...
- Multiple clients can implement the same data format, allowing for credible exit and user choice, even of...
- Other products not focused on forms, which can still view, respond to, or embed forms, and which can send their users via NIP 89 to a client that does...
- Cryptographically sign forms and responses, which means they are self-authenticating and can be sent to...
- Multiple relays, which reduces the amount of trust necessary to be confident results haven't been deliberately "lost".
Show me a forms product that does all of those things, and isn't built on nostr. You can't, because it doesn't exist. Meanwhile, there are plenty of image hosts with APIs, streaming services, and bitcoin wallets which have basically the same levels of censorship resistance, interoperability, and network effect as if they weren't built on nostr.
# It supports nostr
Notice I haven't said anything about whether relays, signers, blossom servers, software libraries, DVMs, and the accumulated addenda of the nostr ecosystem are nostr apps. Well, they are (usually).
This is the category of nostr app that gets none of the credit for doing all of the work. There's no question that they qualify as beautiful nostrcorns, because their value propositions are entirely meaningless outside of the context of nostr. Who needs a signer if you don't have a cryptographic identity you need to protect? DVMs are literally impossible to use without relays. How are you going to find the blossom server that will serve a given hash if you don't know which servers the publishing user has selected to store their content?
In addition to being entirely contextualized by nostr architecture, this type of nostr app is valuable because it does things "the nostr way". By that I mean that they don't simply try to replicate existing internet functionality into a nostr context; instead, they create entirely new ways of putting the basic building blocks of the internet back together.
A great example of this is how Nostr Connect, Nostr Wallet Connect, and DVMs all use relays as brokers, which allows service providers to avoid having to accept incoming network connections. This opens up really interesting possibilities all on its own.
So while I might hesitate to call many of these things "apps", they are certainly "nostr".
# Appendix: it smells like a NINO
So, let's say you've created an app, but when you show it to people they politely smile, nod, and call it a NINO (Nostr In Name Only). What's a hacker to do? Well, here's your handy-dandy guide on how to wash that NINO stench off and Become a Nostr.
You app might be a NINO if:
- There's no NIP for your data format (or you're abusing NIP 78, 32, etc by inventing a sub-protocol inside an existing event kind)
- There's a NIP, but no one knows about it because it's in a text file on your hard drive (or buried in your project's repository)
- Your NIP imposes an incompatible/centralized/legacy web paradigm onto nostr
- Your NIP relies on trusted third (or first) parties
- There's only one implementation of your NIP (yours)
- Your core value proposition doesn't depend on relays, events, or nostr identities
- One or more relay urls are hard-coded into the source code
- Your app depends on a specific relay implementation to work (*ahem*, relay29)
- You don't validate event signatures
- You don't publish events to relays you don't control
- You don't read events from relays you don't control
- You use legacy web services to solve problems, rather than nostr-native solutions
- You use nostr-native solutions, but you've hardcoded their pubkeys or URLs into your app
- You don't use NIP 89 to discover clients and services
- You haven't published a NIP 89 listing for your app
- You don't leverage your users' web of trust for filtering out spam
- You don't respect your users' mute lists
- You try to "own" your users' data
Now let me just re-iterate - it's ok to be a NINO. We need NINOs, because nostr can't (and shouldn't) tackle every problem. You just need to decide whether your app, as a NINO, is actually contributing to the nostr ecosystem, or whether you're just using buzzwords to whitewash a legacy web software product.
If you're in the former camp, great! If you're in the latter, what are you waiting for? Only you can fix your NINO problem. And there are lots of ways to do this, depending on your own unique situation:
- Drop nostr support if it's not doing anyone any good. If you want to build a normal company and make some money, that's perfectly fine.
- Build out your nostr integration - start taking advantage of webs of trust, self-authenticating data, event handlers, etc.
- Work around the problem. Think you need a special relay feature for your app to work? Guess again. Consider encryption, AUTH, DVMs, or better data formats.
- Think your idea is a good one? Talk to other devs or open a PR to the [nips repo](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips). No one can adopt your NIP if they don't know about it.
- Keep going. It can sometimes be hard to distinguish a research project from a NINO. New ideas have to be built out before they can be fully appreciated.
- Listen to advice. Nostr developers are friendly and happy to help. If you're not sure why you're getting traction, ask!
I sincerely hope this article is useful for all of you out there in NINO land. Maybe this made you feel better about not passing the totally optional nostr app purity test. Or maybe it gave you some actionable next steps towards making a great NINON (Nostr In Not Only Name) app. In either case, GM and PV.
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@ e3ba5e1a:5e433365
2025-02-04 08:29:42
President Trump has started rolling out his tariffs, something I [blogged about in November](https://www.snoyman.com/blog/2024/11/steelmanning-tariffs/). People are talking about these tariffs a lot right now, with many people (correctly) commenting on how consumers will end up with higher prices as a result of these tariffs. While that part is true, I’ve seen a lot of people taking it to the next, incorrect step: that consumers will pay the entirety of the tax. I [put up a poll on X](https://x.com/snoyberg/status/1886035800019599808) to see what people thought, and while the right answer got a lot of votes, it wasn't the winner.
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For purposes of this blog post, our ultimate question will be the following:
* Suppose apples currently sell for $1 each in the entire United States.
* There are domestic sellers and foreign sellers of apples, all receiving the same price.
* There are no taxes or tariffs on the purchase of apples.
* The question is: if the US federal government puts a $0.50 import tariff per apple, what will be the change in the following:
* Number of apples bought in the US
* Price paid by buyers for apples in the US
* Post-tax price received by domestic apple producers
* Post-tax price received by foreign apple producers
Before we can answer that question, we need to ask an easier, first question: before instituting the tariff, why do apples cost $1?
And finally, before we dive into the details, let me provide you with the answers to the ultimate question. I recommend you try to guess these answers before reading this, and if you get it wrong, try to understand why:
1. The number of apples bought will go down
2. The buyers will pay more for each apple they buy, but not the full amount of the tariff
3. Domestic apple sellers will receive a *higher* price per apple
4. Foreign apple sellers will receive a *lower* price per apple, but not lowered by the full amount of the tariff
In other words, regardless of who sends the payment to the government, both taxed parties (domestic buyers and foreign sellers) will absorb some of the costs of the tariff, while domestic sellers will benefit from the protectionism provided by tariffs and be able to sell at a higher price per unit.
## Marginal benefit
All of the numbers discussed below are part of a [helper Google Sheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14ZbkWpw1B9Q1UDB9Yh47DmdKQfIafVVBKbDUsSIfGZw/edit?usp=sharing) I put together for this analysis. Also, apologies about the jagged lines in the charts below, I hadn’t realized before starting on this that there are [some difficulties with creating supply and demand charts in Google Sheets](https://superuser.com/questions/1359731/how-to-create-a-supply-demand-style-chart).
Let’s say I absolutely love apples, they’re my favorite food. How much would I be willing to pay for a single apple? You might say “$1, that’s the price in the supermarket,” and in many ways you’d be right. If I walk into supermarket A, see apples on sale for $50, and know that I can buy them at supermarket B for $1, I’ll almost certainly leave A and go buy at B.
But that’s not what I mean. What I mean is: how high would the price of apples have to go *everywhere* so that I’d no longer be willing to buy a single apple? This is a purely personal, subjective opinion. It’s impacted by how much money I have available, other expenses I need to cover, and how much I like apples. But let’s say the number is $5.
How much would I be willing to pay for another apple? Maybe another $5. But how much am I willing to pay for the 1,000th apple? 10,000th? At some point, I’ll get sick of apples, or run out of space to keep the apples, or not be able to eat, cook, and otherwise preserve all those apples before they rot.
The point being: I’ll be progressively willing to spend less and less money for each apple. This form of analysis is called *marginal benefit*: how much benefit (expressed as dollars I’m willing to spend) will I receive from each apple? This is a downward sloping function: for each additional apple I buy (quantity demanded), the price I’m willing to pay goes down. This is what gives my personal *demand curve*. And if we aggregate demand curves across all market participants (meaning: everyone interested in buying apples), we end up with something like this:

Assuming no changes in people’s behavior and other conditions in the market, this chart tells us how many apples will be purchased by our buyers at each price point between $0.50 and $5. And ceteris paribus (all else being equal), this will continue to be the demand curve for apples.
## Marginal cost
Demand is half the story of economics. The other half is supply, or: how many apples will I sell at each price point? Supply curves are upward sloping: the higher the price, the more a person or company is willing and able to sell a product.
Let’s understand why. Suppose I have an apple orchard. It’s a large property right next to my house. With about 2 minutes of effort, I can walk out of my house, find the nearest tree, pick 5 apples off the tree, and call it a day. 5 apples for 2 minutes of effort is pretty good, right?
Yes, there was all the effort necessary to buy the land, and plant the trees, and water them… and a bunch more than I likely can’t even guess at. We’re going to ignore all of that for our analysis, because for short-term supply-and-demand movement, we can ignore these kinds of *sunk costs*. One other simplification: in reality, supply curves often start descending before ascending. This accounts for achieving efficiencies of scale after the first number of units purchased. But since both these topics are unneeded for understanding taxes, I won’t go any further.
Anyway, back to my apple orchard. If someone offers me $0.50 per apple, I can do 2 minutes of effort and get $2.50 in revenue, which equates to a $75/hour wage for me. I’m more than happy to pick apples at that price\!
However, let’s say someone comes to buy 10,000 apples from me instead. I no longer just walk out to my nearest tree. I’m going to need to get in my truck, drive around, spend the day in the sun, pay for gas, take a day off of my day job (let’s say it pays me $70/hour). The costs go up significantly. Let’s say it takes 5 days to harvest all those apples myself, it costs me $100 in fuel and other expenses, and I lose out on my $70/hour job for 5 days. We end up with:
* Total expenditure: $100 \+ $70 \* 8 hours a day \* 5 days \== $2900
* Total revenue: $5000 (10,000 apples at $0.50 each)
* Total profit: $2100
So I’m still willing to sell the apples at this price, but it’s not as attractive as before. And as the number of apples purchased goes up, my costs keep increasing. I’ll need to spend more money on fuel to travel more of my property. At some point I won’t be able to do the work myself anymore, so I’ll need to pay others to work on the farm, and they’ll be slower at picking apples than me (less familiar with the property, less direct motivation, etc.). The point being: at some point, the number of apples can go high enough that the $0.50 price point no longer makes me any money.
This kind of analysis is called *marginal cost*. It refers to the additional amount of expenditure a seller has to spend in order to produce each additional unit of the good. Marginal costs go up as quantity sold goes up. And like demand curves, if you aggregate this data across all sellers, you get a supply curve like this:

## Equilibrium price
We now know, for every price point, how many apples buyers will purchase, and how many apples sellers will sell. Now we find the equilibrium: where the supply and demand curves meet. This point represents where the marginal benefit a buyer would receive from the next buyer would be less than the cost it would take the next seller to make it. Let’s see it in a chart:
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You’ll notice that these two graphs cross at the $1 price point, where 63 apples are both demanded (bought by consumers) and supplied (sold by producers). This is our equilibrium price. We also have a visualization of the *surplus* created by these trades. Everything to the left of the equilibrium point and between the supply and demand curves represents surplus: an area where someone is receiving something of more value than they give. For example:
* When I bought my first apple for $1, but I was willing to spend $5, I made $4 of consumer surplus. The consumer portion of the surplus is everything to the left of the equilibrium point, between the supply and demand curves, and above the equilibrium price point.
* When a seller sells his first apple for $1, but it only cost $0.50 to produce it, the seller made $0.50 of producer surplus. The producer portion of the surplus is everything to the left of the equilibrium point, between the supply and demand curves, and below the equilibrium price point.
Another way of thinking of surplus is “every time someone got a better price than they would have been willing to take.”
OK, with this in place, we now have enough information to figure out how to price in the tariff, which we’ll treat as a negative externality.
## Modeling taxes
Alright, the government has now instituted a $0.50 tariff on every apple sold within the US by a foreign producer. We can generally model taxes by either increasing the marginal cost of each unit sold (shifting the supply curve up), or by decreasing the marginal benefit of each unit bought (shifting the demand curve down). In this case, since only some of the producers will pay the tax, it makes more sense to modify the supply curve.
First, let’s see what happens to the foreign seller-only supply curve when you add in the tariff:
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With the tariff in place, for each quantity level, the price at which the seller will sell is $0.50 higher than before the tariff. That makes sense: if I was previously willing to sell my 82nd apple for $3, I would now need to charge $3.50 for that apple to cover the cost of the tariff. We see this as the tariff “pushing up” or “pushing left” the original supply curve.
We can add this new supply curve to our existing (unchanged) supply curve for domestic-only sellers, and we end up with a result like this:

The total supply curve adds up the individual foreign and domestic supply curves. At each price point, we add up the total quantity each group would be willing to sell to determine the total quantity supplied for each price point. Once we have that cumulative supply curve defined, we can produce an updated supply-and-demand chart including the tariff:

As we can see, the equilibrium has shifted:
* The equilibrium price paid by consumers has risen from $1 to $1.20.
* The total number of apples purchased has dropped from 63 apples to 60 apples.
* Consumers therefore received 3 less apples. They spent $72 for these 60 apples, whereas previously they spent $63 for 3 more apples, a definite decrease in consumer surplus.
* Foreign producers sold 36 of those apples (see the raw data in the linked Google Sheet), for a gross revenue of $43.20. However, they also need to pay the tariff to the US government, which accounts for $18, meaning they only receive $25.20 post-tariff. Previously, they sold 42 apples at $1 each with no tariff to be paid, meaning they took home $42.
* Domestic producers sold the remaining 24 apples at $1.20, giving them a revenue of $28.80. Since they don’t pay the tariff, they take home all of that money. By contrast, previously, they sold 21 apples at $1, for a take-home of $21.
* The government receives $0.50 for each of the 60 apples sold, or in other words receives $30 in revenue it wouldn’t have received otherwise.
We could be more specific about the surpluses, and calculate the actual areas for consumer surplus, producer surplus, inefficiency from the tariff, and government revenue from the tariff. But I won’t bother, as those calculations get slightly more involved. Instead, let’s just look at the aggregate outcomes:
* Consumers were unquestionably hurt. Their price paid went up by $0.20 per apple, and received less apples.
* Foreign producers were also hurt. Their price received went down from the original $1 to the new post-tariff price of $1.20, minus the $0.50 tariff. In other words: foreign producers only receive $0.70 per apple now. This hurt can be mitigated by shifting sales to other countries without a tariff, but the pain will exist regardless.
* Domestic producers scored. They can sell less apples and make more revenue doing it.
* And the government walked away with an extra $30.
Hopefully you now see the answer to the original questions. Importantly, while the government imposed a $0.50 tariff, neither side fully absorbed that cost. Consumers paid a bit more, foreign producers received a bit less. The exact details of how that tariff was split across the groups is mediated by the relevant supply and demand curves of each group. If you want to learn more about this, the relevant search term is “price elasticity,” or how much a group’s quantity supplied or demanded will change based on changes in the price.
## Other taxes
Most taxes are some kind of a tax on trade. Tariffs on apples is an obvious one. But the same applies to income tax (taxing the worker for the trade of labor for money) or payroll tax (same thing, just taxing the employer instead). Interestingly, you can use the same model for analyzing things like tax incentives. For example, if the government decided to subsidize domestic apple production by giving the domestic producers a $0.50 bonus for each apple they sell, we would end up with a similar kind of analysis, except instead of the foreign supply curve shifting up, we’d see the domestic supply curve shifting down.
And generally speaking, this is what you’ll *always* see with government involvement in the economy. It will result in disrupting an existing equilibrium, letting the market readjust to a new equilibrium, and incentivization of some behavior, causing some people to benefit and others to lose out. We saw with the apple tariff, domestic producers and the government benefited while others lost.
You can see the reverse though with tax incentives. If I give a tax incentive of providing a deduction (not paying income tax) for preschool, we would end up with:
* Government needs to make up the difference in tax revenue, either by raising taxes on others or printing more money (leading to inflation). Either way, those paying the tax or those holding government debased currency will pay a price.
* Those people who don’t use the preschool deduction will receive no benefit, so they simply pay a cost.
* Those who do use the preschool deduction will end up paying less on tax+preschool than they would have otherwise.
This analysis is fully amoral. It’s not saying whether providing subsidized preschool is a good thing or not, it simply tells you where the costs will be felt, and points out that such government interference in free economic choice does result in inefficiencies in the system. Once you have that knowledge, you’re more well educated on making a decision about whether the costs of government intervention are worth the benefits.
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@ 8d5ba92c:c6c3ecd5
2025-01-30 15:58:03
For me, it’s simple yet profound: a job and labor aren’t the same thing. You don’t have to struggle to perform a task or to meet someone else's unrealistic expectations. In fact, if you genuinely enjoy what you’re doing and believe in its purpose, the results will naturally be better—and everyone benefits.
I’m speaking from the perspective of someone who walked away from a "*well-established career*" multiple times. These days, I might be working more than ever, but I don’t feel tired, frustrated, or burned out. The radical change I made—leaving the "*professional fiat world*" behind—wasn’t easy, but I’ve never regretted it. Now, working fully in Bitcoin, I feel more motivated and satisfied than ever before.
Sure, it's not always straightforward.
This lifestyle definitely comes with its challenges. But those challenges don’t crush me. Just the opposite. When combined with a sense of freedom, they become opportunities for growth—something I truly value. It’s a completely different experience compared to most jobs rooted in the old system.
I’m not saying working in Bitcoin is all sunshine and rainbows, nor am I criticizing anyone still working in fiat. What I’m trying to emphasize is the core message of that quote:
## Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life...
Read it aloud and think about your last couple of jobs.
How did you feel? Did you find fulfillment and satisfaction, or was it more like a form of slavery that made you dread going to bed and waking up every morning?
I didn’t really have those feelings, except for one corporation at the beginning of my career, which gave me a hard time but also taught me valuable lessons. Aside from that experience, most of my jobs weren’t too bad—no need to complain. Still, I often questioned my situation: '*Seriously, why do I have to do this or that if I know it doesn’t make sense?*'
Doing things you don’t believe in can lead to frustration, often in ways you might not even realize, yet every time, significantly affecting your well-being and the people around you.
Now, I hardly know what inner anger means.
I wake up happy, full of passion and ideas. I don’t track the hours as they pass; instead, I focus on all the tasks I complete and how they make a difference for me and others. Yes, I love what I do. And returning to the main point of this article, I shouldn’t even see it as work, even though in practice it definitely is.
The key here is a mix of independence, purpose, and self-determination. Bitcoin has helped me achieve that to a level that’s hard to break.
## A Fresh Take on The Market
I also remember that 5-7 years ago, especially for non-devs, Bitcoin-based jobs weren’t as accessible as they are now (which is probably why I stayed in my traditional career for so long...). It’s really only in the last, maybe 2-3 years that things have changed. With so many areas expanding beyond just mining and tech-related stuff, and new interesting projects popping up regularly, there’s almost any position you can imagine to jump into.
According to a recent report by [Bitvocation](https://linktr.ee/bitvocation) '69% of Bitcoin jobs are non-developer roles'. Also, more than half of available positions in 2024 offered remote opportunities, giving job seekers extra flexibility. Bitcoin is borderless—and so are many of the jobs in this space. If you’ve ever thought working in Bitcoin was out of reach, think again—and check this out "[BITCOIN JOB MARKET DATA, 2024 Report](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZFnYP949GzssQHA9wcjHTeW4cDiZIWvM/view)".
One tip from my experience: a good option is to start with a part-time role while keeping your traditional fiat job for more stability, especially at the beginning. After a while, you’ll gain more confidence and see which direction you want to go. Or, if you position yourself so that you don’t need to earn a lot for the next 3-6 months, consider finding a project- or task-based Bitcoin job, maybe even just an internship. Meanwhile, you might decide to focus on building something unique on your own. It can feel amazing! You’ll gain valuable skills, sharpen your experience, and better understand which options work best for your future.
You see, just like in nature, balance is key.
You don’t have to run before you can walk.
What I’m saying is this:
**The choice is yours, as long as you plan ahead + learn, while staying true to your needs, beliefs, and priorities.**
If you want it, do it. Starting a career in Bitcoin is possible, and I have a feeling this space will grow even faster in the next few years. Yes, there will still be ups and downs (hello, bear markets!), but if you plan thoughtfully, there’s not much to worry about.
We’re still early—Bitcoin is only 16 years old—but if you’ve been following this space, you’ve probably seen how dynamic and resilient it is. If you’ve ever thought about working in Bitcoin, now is the time to rethink the possibilities :)))
BTC Your Mind. Let it Beat.
Şelale
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-04 07:52:55
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/875346
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@ 23dea97f:72ed98dc
2025-02-04 07:29:36
Post number 1
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@ 177ff913:b25cacc0
2025-02-04 07:21:26
MCW18 là một nền tảng giải trí trực tuyến tiên tiến, được thiết kế với mục tiêu mang đến trải nghiệm mượt mà và thú vị cho người dùng. Giao diện của nền tảng này rất dễ sử dụng, tối ưu hóa cho tất cả các thiết bị, từ máy tính để bàn đến điện thoại di động, giúp người dùng có thể tiếp cận dịch vụ một cách nhanh chóng và thuận tiện. MCW18 luôn đảm bảo tốc độ truy cập ổn định, giúp người dùng có thể tham gia vào các hoạt động giải trí mà không gặp phải bất kỳ sự gián đoạn nào. Nền tảng này mang đến một không gian giải trí trực tuyến chất lượng cao và tiện lợi cho người sử dụng.
Bảo mật là một trong những yếu tố quan trọng hàng đầu tại <a href="https://mcw18.cc">MCW18</a>. Nền tảng này áp dụng công nghệ mã hóa tiên tiến để bảo vệ mọi thông tin cá nhân và giao dịch của người dùng. Dữ liệu đăng nhập, thông tin tài khoản và các giao dịch tài chính đều được xử lý một cách bảo mật và an toàn tuyệt đối. MCW18 cam kết không chia sẻ bất kỳ thông tin cá nhân nào của người dùng cho bên thứ ba mà không có sự đồng ý của họ. Đội ngũ kỹ thuật của MCW18 luôn theo dõi và cập nhật các biện pháp bảo mật mới nhất để đối phó với những mối đe dọa từ bên ngoài, mang lại sự yên tâm cho người dùng khi tham gia vào nền tảng.
Ngoài bảo mật, MCW18 còn chú trọng đến chất lượng dịch vụ khách hàng. Đội ngũ hỗ trợ của MCW18 luôn sẵn sàng 24/7 để giải đáp mọi thắc mắc và giúp đỡ người dùng khi gặp phải bất kỳ vấn đề nào. Người dùng có thể dễ dàng liên hệ qua nhiều kênh khác nhau như chat trực tuyến, email hoặc điện thoại. Đội ngũ chăm sóc khách hàng của MCW18 rất chuyên nghiệp và tận tâm, luôn cố gắng mang đến sự hỗ trợ nhanh chóng và hiệu quả, giúp người dùng giải quyết mọi vấn đề trong thời gian ngắn nhất.
MCW18 cũng rất chú trọng đến việc cải thiện trải nghiệm người dùng thông qua các chương trình khuyến mãi và ưu đãi hấp dẫn. Người dùng có thể tham gia vào các sự kiện và nhận nhiều phần thưởng giá trị, tạo thêm động lực và sự hào hứng khi tham gia vào các dịch vụ trên nền tảng. Các chương trình khuyến mãi của MCW18 được tổ chức thường xuyên và luôn được cập nhật để đáp ứng nhu cầu của người dùng. Điều này giúp MCW18 không chỉ cung cấp một trải nghiệm giải trí tuyệt vời mà còn mang đến những cơ hội nhận thưởng hấp dẫn cho người tham gia.
Cuối cùng, MCW18 cam kết không ngừng nâng cao chất lượng dịch vụ và đáp ứng mọi nhu cầu của người dùng. Với sự kết hợp giữa giao diện dễ sử dụng, bảo mật mạnh mẽ, hỗ trợ khách hàng chuyên nghiệp và các chương trình khuyến mãi hấp dẫn, MCW18 đã và đang trở thành lựa chọn hàng đầu của nhiều người dùng yêu thích giải trí trực tuyến. Nền tảng này không chỉ đảm bảo sự an toàn và bảo mật mà còn mang đến những giây phút thư giãn tuyệt vời, giúp người dùng có thể tận hưởng một trải nghiệm giải trí hoàn hảo và trọn vẹn.
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@ b7274d28:c99628cb
2025-02-04 05:31:13
For anyone interested in the list of essential essays from nostr:npub14hn6p34vegy4ckeklz8jq93mendym9asw8z2ej87x2wuwf8werasc6a32x ([@anilsaidso](https://x.com/anilsaidso)) on Twitter that nostr:npub1h8nk2346qezka5cpm8jjh3yl5j88pf4ly2ptu7s6uu55wcfqy0wq36rpev mentioned on Read 856, here it is. I have compiled it with as many of the essays as I could find, along with the audio versions, when available. Additionally, if the author is on #Nostr, I have tagged their npub so you can thank them by zapping them some sats.
All credit for this list and the graphics accompanying each entry goes to nostr:npub14hn6p34vegy4ckeklz8jq93mendym9asw8z2ej87x2wuwf8werasc6a32x, whose original thread can be found here: [Anil's Essential Essays Thread](https://x.com/anilsaidso/status/1290758632238276609)

## 1.

> History shows us that the corruption of monetary systems leads to moral decay, social collapse, and slavery.
Essay: https://breedlove22.medium.com/masters-and-slaves-of-money-255ecc93404f
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/RI0iCGRCCYdhnMXIN3L6
## 2.

> The 21st century emergence of Bitcoin, encryption, the internet, and millennials are more than just trends; they herald a wave of change that exhibits similar dynamics as the 16-17th century revolution that took place in Europe.
Author: nostr:npub13l3lyslfzyscrqg8saw4r09y70702s6r025hz52sajqrvdvf88zskh8xc2
Essay: https://casebitcoin.com/docs/TheBitcoinReformation_TuurDemeester.pdf
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/uLgBG2tyCLMlOp3g50EL
## 3.

> There are many men out there who will parrot the "debt is money WE owe OURSELVES" without acknowledging that "WE" isn't a static entity, but a collection of individuals at different points in their lives.
Author: nostr:npub1guh5grefa7vkay4ps6udxg8lrqxg2kgr3qh9n4gduxut64nfxq0q9y6hjy
Essay: https://www.tftc.io/issue-754-ludwig-von-mises-human-action/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/UXacM2rkdcyjG9xp9O2l
## 4.

> If Bitcoin exists for 20 years, there will be near-universal confidence that it will be available forever, much as people believe the Internet is a permanent feature of the modern world.
Essay: https://vijayboyapati.medium.com/the-bullish-case-for-bitcoin-6ecc8bdecc1
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/jC3KbxTkXVzXO4vR7X3W
As you are surely aware, Vijay has expanded this into a book available here: [The Bullish Case for Bitcoin Book](https://www.bullishcaseforbitcoin.com/product-page/the-bullish-case-for-bitcoin-paperback-1)
There is also an audio book version available here: [The Bullish Case for Bitcoin Audio Book](https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Bullish-Case-for-Bitcoin-Audiobook/B09QXR9GVL?eac_link=m4syoiXYyRJh&ref=web_search_eac_asin_1&eac_selected_type=asin&eac_selected=B09QXR9GVL&qid=2tIYC0F4Ya&eac_id=135-0887332-3379864_2tIYC0F4Ya&sr=1-1)
## 5.

> This realignment would not be traditional right vs left, but rather land vs cloud, state vs network, centralized vs decentralized, new money vs old, internationalist/capitalist vs nationalist/socialist, MMT vs BTC,...Hamilton vs Satoshi.
Essay: https://nakamoto.com/bitcoin-becomes-the-flag-of-technology/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/tFJKjYLKhiFY8voDssZc
## 6.
[Gradually, Then Suddenly](https://relay.brightbolt.net/fa4196f5c6183bda153e2e3c9911909d289b5a428852f5f07f7c1991191e7489.jpg)
> I became convinced that, whether bitcoin survives or not, the existing financial system is working on borrowed time.
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/mempool/gradually-then-suddenly/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/Mf6hgTFUNESqvdxEIOGZ
Parker Lewis went on to release several more articles in the Gradually, Then Suddenly series. They can be found here: [Gradually, Then Suddenly Series](https://nakamotoinstitute.org/mempool/series/gradually-then-suddenly/)
nostr:npub1h8nk2346qezka5cpm8jjh3yl5j88pf4ly2ptu7s6uu55wcfqy0wq36rpev has, of course, read all of them for us. Listing them all here is beyond the scope of this article, but you can find them by searching the podcast feed here: [Bitcoin Audible Feed](https://fountain.fm/show/RtZlWdbEbpyEyjBNbeQ7)
Finally, Parker Lewis has refined these articles and released them as a book, which is available here: [Gradually, Then Suddenly Book](https://academy.saifedean.com/product/gradually-then-suddenly-hardcover/)
## 7.

> Bitcoin is a beautifully-constructed protocol. Genius is apparent in its design to most people who study it in depth, in terms of the way it blends math, computer science, cyber security, monetary economics, and game theory.
Author: nostr:npub1a2cww4kn9wqte4ry70vyfwqyqvpswksna27rtxd8vty6c74era8sdcw83a
Essay: https://www.lynalden.com/invest-in-bitcoin/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/axeqKBvYCSP1s9aJIGSe
## 8.

> Bitcoin offers a sweeping vista of opportunity to re-imagine how the financial system can and should work in the Internet era..
Essay: https://archive.nytimes.com/dealbook.nytimes.com/2014/01/21/why-bitcoin-matters/
## 9.

> Using Bitcoin for consumer purchases is akin to driving a Concorde jet down the street to pick up groceries: a ridiculously expensive waste of an astonishing tool.
Author: nostr:npub1gdu7w6l6w65qhrdeaf6eyywepwe7v7ezqtugsrxy7hl7ypjsvxksd76nak
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/mempool/economics-of-bitcoin-as-a-settlement-network/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/JoSpRFWJtoogn3lvTYlz
## 10.

> The Internet is a dumb network, which is its defining and most valuable feature. The Internet’s protocol (..) doesn’t offer “services.” It doesn’t make decisions about content. It doesn’t distinguish between photos, text, video and audio.
Essay: https://fee.org/articles/decentralization-why-dumb-networks-are-better/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/b7gOEqmWxn8RiDziffXf
## 11.

> Most people are only familiar with (b)itcoin the electronic currency, but more important is (B)itcoin, with a capital B, the underlying protocol, which encapsulates and distributes the functions of contract law.
I was unable to find this essay or any audio version. Clicking on Anil's original link took me to Naval's blog, but that particular entry seems to have been removed.
## 12.

> Bitcoin can approximate unofficial exchange rates which, in turn, can be used to detect both the existence and the magnitude of the distortion caused by capital controls & exchange rate manipulations.
Essay: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/Papers.cfm?abstract_id=2714921
## 13.

> You can create something which looks cosmetically similar to Bitcoin, but you cannot replicate the settlement assurances which derive from the costliness of the ledger.
Essay: https://medium.com/@nic__carter/its-the-settlement-assurances-stupid-5dcd1c3f4e41
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/5NoPoiRU4NtF2YQN5QI1
## 14.

> When we can secure the most important functionality of a financial network by computer science... we go from a system that is manual, local, and of inconsistent security to one that is automated, global, and much more secure.
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/library/money-blockchains-and-social-scalability/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/VMH9YmGVCF8c3I5zYkrc
## 15.

> The BCB enforces the strictest deposit regulations in the world by requiring full reserves for all accounts. ..money is not destroyed when bank debts are repaid, so increased money hoarding does not cause liquidity traps..
Author: nostr:npub1hxwmegqcfgevu4vsfjex0v3wgdyz8jtlgx8ndkh46t0lphtmtsnsuf40pf
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/mempool/the-bitcoin-central-banks-perfect-monetary-policy/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/ralOokFfhFfeZpYnGAsD
## 16.

> When Satoshi announced Bitcoin on the cryptography mailing list, he got a skeptical reception at best. Cryptographers have seen too many grand schemes by clueless noobs. They tend to have a knee jerk reaction.
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/library/bitcoin-and-me/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/Vx8hKhLZkkI4cq97qS4Z
## 17.

> No matter who you are, or how big your company is, **𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙬𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙙.**
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/mempool/bitcoin-miners-beware-invalid-blocks-need-not-apply/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/bcSuBGmOGY2TecSov4rC
## 18.

> Just like a company trying to protect itself from being destroyed by a new competitor, the actions and reactions of central banks and policy makers to protect the system that they know, are quite predictable.
Author: nostr:npub1s05p3ha7en49dv8429tkk07nnfa9pcwczkf5x5qrdraqshxdje9sq6eyhe
Essay: https://medium.com/the-bitcoin-times/the-greatest-game-b787ac3242b2
Audio Part 1: https://fountain.fm/episode/5bYyGRmNATKaxminlvco
Audio Part 2: https://fountain.fm/episode/92eU3h6gqbzng84zqQPZ
## 19.

> Technology, industry, and society have advanced immeasurably since, and yet we still live by Venetian financial customs and have no idea why. Modern banking is the legacy of a problem that technology has since solved.
Author: nostr:npub1sfhflz2msx45rfzjyf5tyj0x35pv4qtq3hh4v2jf8nhrtl79cavsl2ymqt
Essay: https://allenfarrington.medium.com/bitcoin-is-venice-8414dda42070
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/s6Fu2VowAddRACCCIxQh
Allen Farrington and Sacha Meyers have gone on to expand this into a book, as well. You can get the book here: [Bitcoin is Venice Book](https://www.amazon.com/Bitcoin-Venice-Essays-Future-Capitalism/dp/B09TTTGT11)
And wouldn't you know it, Guy Swann has narrated the audio book available here: [Bitcoin is Venice Audio Book](https://www.audible.com/pd/Bitcoin-is-Venice-Audiobook/B0CCQD539W?eac_link=yrZ4RxHupcgL&ref=web_search_eac_asin_1&eac_selected_type=asin&eac_selected=B0CCQD539W&qid=pL7jjJ13ia&eac_id=135-0887332-3379864_pL7jjJ13ia&sr=1-1)
## 20.

> The rich and powerful will always design systems that benefit them before everyone else. The genius of Bitcoin is to take advantage of that very base reality and force them to get involved and help run the system, instead of attacking it.
Author: nostr:npub1trr5r2nrpsk6xkjk5a7p6pfcryyt6yzsflwjmz6r7uj7lfkjxxtq78hdpu
Essay: https://quillette.com/2021/02/21/can-governments-stop-bitcoin/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/jeZ21IWIlbuC1OGnssy8
## 21.

> In the realm of information, there is no coin-stamping without time-stamping. The relentless beating of this clock is what gives rise to all the magical properties of Bitcoin.
Author: nostr:npub1dergggklka99wwrs92yz8wdjs952h2ux2ha2ed598ngwu9w7a6fsh9xzpc
Essay: https://dergigi.com/2021/01/14/bitcoin-is-time/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/pTevCY2vwanNsIso6F6X
## 22.

> You can stay on the Fiat Standard, in which some people get to produce unlimited new units of money for free, just not you. Or opt in to the Bitcoin Standard, in which no one gets to do that, including you.
Essay: https://casebitcoin.com/docs/StoneRidge_2020_Shareholder_Letter.pdf
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/PhBTa39qwbkwAtRnO38W
## 23.

> Long term investors should use Bitcoin as their unit of account and every single investment should be compared to the expected returns of Bitcoin.
Essay: https://nakamotoinstitute.org/mempool/everyones-a-scammer/
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/vyR2GUNfXtKRK8qwznki
## 24.

> When you’re in the ivory tower, you think the term “ivory tower” is a silly misrepresentation of your very normal life; when you’re no longer in the ivory tower, you realize how willfully out of touch you were with the world.
Essay: https://www.citadel21.com/why-the-yuppie-elite-dismiss-bitcoin
Audio: https://fountain.fm/episode/7do5K4pPNljOf2W3rR2V
You might notice that many of the above essays are available from the [Satoshi Nakamoto Institute](https://nakamotoinstitute.org/). It is a veritable treasure trove of excellent writing on subjects surrounding #Bitcoin and #AustrianEconomics. If you find value in them keeping these written works online for the next wave of new Bitcoiners to have an excellent source of education, please consider [donating](https://pay.zaprite.com/pl_vNYDp4YBSd) to the cause.
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@ 91bea5cd:1df4451c
2025-02-04 05:24:47
Novia é uma ferramenta inovadora que facilita o arquivamento de vídeos e sua integração com a rede NOSTR (Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted over Relay). Funcionando como uma ponte entre ferramentas de arquivamento de vídeo tradicionais e a plataforma descentralizada, Novia oferece uma solução autônoma para a preservação e compartilhamento de conteúdo audiovisual.
### Arquitetura e Funcionamento
A arquitetura de Novia é dividida em duas partes principais:
* **Frontend:** Atua como a interface do usuário, responsável por solicitar o arquivamento de vídeos. Essas solicitações são encaminhadas para o backend.
* **Backend:** Processa as solicitações de arquivamento, baixando o vídeo, suas descrições e a imagem de capa associada. Este componente é conectado a um ou mais relays NOSTR, permitindo a indexação e descoberta do conteúdo arquivado.
O processo de arquivamento é automatizado: após o download, o vídeo fica disponível no frontend para que o usuário possa solicitar o upload para um servidor Blossom de sua escolha.
### Como Utilizar Novia
1. **Acesso:** Navegue até [https://npub126uz2g6ft45qs0m0rnvtvtp7glcfd23pemrzz0wnt8r5vlhr9ufqnsmvg8.nsite.lol](https://npub126uz2g6ft45qs0m0rnvtvtp7glcfd23pemrzz0wnt8r5vlhr9ufqnsmvg8.nsite.lol).
2. **Login:** Utilize uma extensão de navegador compatível com NOSTR para autenticar-se.
3. **Execução via Docker:** A forma mais simples de executar o backend é através de um container Docker. Execute o seguinte comando:
```bash
docker run -it --rm -p 9090:9090 -v ./nostr/data:/data --add-host=host.docker.internal:host-gateway teamnovia/novia
```
Este comando cria um container, mapeia a porta 9090 para o host e monta o diretório `./nostr/data` para persistir os dados.
### Configuração Avançada
Novia oferece amplas opções de configuração através de um arquivo `yaml`. Abaixo, um exemplo comentado:
```yaml
mediaStores:
- id: media
type: local
path: /data/media
watch: true
database: /data/novia.db
download:
enabled: true
ytdlpPath: yt-dlp
ytdlpCookies: ./cookies.txt
tempPath: /tmp
targetStoreId: media
secret: false
publish:
enabled: true
key: nsec
thumbnailUpload:
- https://nostr.download
videoUpload:
- url: https://nostr.download
maxUploadSizeMB: 300
cleanUpMaxAgeDays: 5
cleanUpKeepSizeUnderMB: 2
- url: https://files.v0l.io
maxUploadSizeMB: 300
cleanUpMaxAgeDays: 5
cleanUpKeepSizeUnderMB: 2
- url: https://nosto.re
maxUploadSizeMB: 300
cleanUpMaxAgeDays: 5
cleanUpKeepSizeUnderMB: 2
- url: https://blossom.primal.net
maxUploadSizeMB: 300
cleanUpMaxAgeDays: 5
cleanUpKeepSizeUnderMB: 2
relays:
- ws://host.docker.internal:4869
- wss://bostr.bitcointxoko.com
secret: false
autoUpload:
enabled: true
maxVideoSizeMB: 100
fetch:
enabled: false
fetchVideoLimitMB: 10
relays:
- <a relay with the video events to mirror>
match:
- nostr
- bitcoin
server:
port: 9090
enabled: true
```
**Explicação das Configurações:**
* **`mediaStores`**: Define onde os arquivos de mídia serão armazenados (localmente, neste exemplo).
* **`database`**: Especifica o local do banco de dados.
* **`download`**: Controla as configurações de download de vídeos, incluindo o caminho para o `yt-dlp` e um arquivo de cookies para autenticação.
* **`publish`**: Configura a publicação de vídeos e thumbnails no NOSTR, incluindo a chave privada (`nsec`), servidores de upload e relays. **Atenção:** Mantenha sua chave privada em segredo.
* **`fetch`**: Permite buscar eventos de vídeo de relays NOSTR para arquivamento.
* **`server`**: Define as configurações do servidor web interno de Novia.
### Conclusão
Novia surge como uma ferramenta promissora para o arquivamento e a integração de vídeos com o ecossistema NOSTR. Sua arquitetura modular, combinada com opções de configuração flexíveis, a tornam uma solução poderosa para usuários que buscam preservar e compartilhar conteúdo audiovisual de forma descentralizada e resistente à censura. A utilização de Docker simplifica a implantação e o gerenciamento da ferramenta. Para obter mais informações e explorar o código-fonte, visite o repositório do projeto no GitHub: [https://github.com/teamnovia/novia](https://github.com/teamnovia/novia).
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@ 3ffac3a6:2d656657
2025-02-04 04:31:26
In the waning days of the 20th century, a woman named Annabelle Nolan was born into an unremarkable world, though she herself was anything but ordinary. A prodigy in cryptography and quantum computing, she would later adopt the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, orchestrating the creation of Bitcoin in the early 21st century. But her legacy would stretch far beyond the blockchain.
Annabelle's obsession with cryptography was not just about securing data—it was about securing freedom. Her work in quantum computing inadvertently triggered a cascade of temporal anomalies, one of which ensnared her in 2011. The event was cataclysmic yet silent, unnoticed by the world she'd transformed. In an instant, she was torn from her era and thrust violently back into the 16th century.
Disoriented and stripped of her futuristic tools, Annabelle faced a brutal reality: survive in a world where her knowledge was both a curse and a weapon. Reinventing herself as Anne Boleyn, she navigated the treacherous courts of Tudor England with the same strategic brilliance she'd used to design Bitcoin. Her intellect dazzled King Henry VIII, but it was the mysterious necklace she wore—adorned with a bold, stylized "B"—that fueled whispers. It was more than jewelry; it was a relic of a forgotten future, a silent beacon for any historian clever enough to decode her true story.
Anne's fate seemed sealed as she ascended to queenship, her influence growing alongside her enemies. Yet beneath the royal intrigue, she harbored a desperate hope: that the symbol around her neck would outlast her, sparking curiosity in minds centuries away. The "B" was her signature, a cryptographic clue embedded in history.
On the scaffold in 1536, as she faced her execution, Anne Boleyn's gaze was unwavering. She knew her death was not the end. Somewhere, in dusty archives and encrypted ledgers, her mark endured. Historians would puzzle over the enigmatic "B," and perhaps one day, someone would connect the dots between a queen, a coin, and a time anomaly born from quantum code.
She wasn't just Anne Boleyn. She was Satoshi Nakamoto, the time-displaced architect of a decentralized future, hiding in plain sight within the annals of history.
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@ bbb5dda0:f09e2747
2025-02-04 03:58:50
**This past week got me a lot of frustration with the GitHub actions runner and debugging it. Really testing my patience, but at least i saw a bit of progress. TollGate's had a nice wrap-up for the Proof Of Concept app, which some great new ideas on how to make the user experience even better! Let's dive in!**
## GitHub Actions
I've been having a low-key fight with the github actions runner containers. I have spent a lot of time trying to figure out WHY the blossom upload action would just not work. I was quick to find out that the action is being ran with an older version of NodeJS (v18) while the blossom uploader requires v20. Not a big deal you'd say as i just set the version to 20 in the pipeline. However, doing that explicitly had zero impact, and after diving down the github runner rabbit hole i concluded that the Actions that are imported (from marketplace) will just run with whatever node version is already installed in the runner's docker image. Which in the case of the act runner is Node 18. I tried updating to the latest images but I haven't been able to find a compatible one yet...
### Payments
I've been working on getting the money aspect working in the ci-cd runner. I added a wallet and a scheduled payout. I took this from the nostr-epoxy project and did some updates to upgrade to cashu-ts v2.
I added some advertisement info like the specs of the machine that the runner is on. I've been pondering how the payment flow should work though.
See the problem is that because of the nature of this DVM, it cannot predict how long a job will take to execute, a customer can literally do anything in their pipeline that will make a job last forever. I think for that reason there has to be some kind of deposit/credit or stream besides the one-off payment. I made a post asking what the best way would be: nostr:note17apw8unznvwx2k3z48t7qz6cq26tk077w83qh3f7zxukfrrfukhs7mpcsn
I currently feel best about the option of just sending a bunch of ecash that will sure be enough to execute the job (and otherwise act as the time-out) and that if the DVM uses less of that money, it will send it back as pubkey locked cashu tokens, to a given npub. Maybe NIP-60 can be a great way to handle returning the 'change' to the user.
Some ideas i have now:
- Billing should be per second
- Advertising should:
- advertise as sats/minute
- include specs of the machine, ideally searchable by tag
### Job request
So the flow i'm thinking of is:
- User posts request
- repository
- branch
- yaml path
- bid (max price per minute)
- min_vcpu
- min_ram
- min_storage
- DVM responds with
- price per minute
- vcpu
- ram
- storage
- runner-types
- price per minute
- User posts request:
- ... [same as above]
- cashu payment
- cashu return pubkey + relay
### User Interface
I also worked on building out a very basic user interface to run the GitHub Actions dvm.
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The UI then shows all feedback to the job, where the first feedback event you can see gives back a status processing, and the next one gives back the console output of the pipeline run.
nostr:npub15qydau2hjma6ngxkl2cyar74wzyjshvl65za5k5rl69264ar2exs5cyejr and I agreed he'll copy over this basic setup into his upcoming version of gitWorkshop.dev which I can then build upon so we can experiment with the User Experience (how to handle competing Runners, display results, payments, etc...)
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## Tollgate
There's also been the issue that has been bothering me since last week: Being able to dismiss a captive portal programatically in the Android app.
During a weekly check-in that nostr:npub1k03rader0vm94j5ee8fg7pc2x9xkr2phu77sljas7qu5mh8mvgvqpe8rty and I set up we discussed the issue. To me, it's a problem having the user to jump through all these hoops to connect, which should be as much automated as possible.
We discussed what if we'd ditch the open network and go with a WPA2 (password) protected one and have no captive portal. But then we lose the ability to do onboarding / expose users to Tollgate through the captive portal. Then the idea came up to create an extra (hidden) network for the app to use, while keeping the open one with the captive portal. I did not know it was possible to create multiple networks on the same (physical) radio, but apparently it's quite common. You lose a bit on efficiency but it shouldn't be too bad. The only challenge would be to exempt this network from getting a captive portal while still using the OpenNDS software to manage user's sessions. We'll see but this gives me a lot of hope for a seamless user experience!
After this call, despite our possible new direction I did want to try and get the full app flow working, to validate if it's possible at all. And after some digging int the Tauri docs and even their discord community i finally found what the issue was with me not receiving the android event for the captive portal. I'd ben adding the listener for this event to the `androidmanifest.xml` file for the Tauri Android plugin, while I had to put it into the tauri app one's itself -one level higher- if you will...
Anyway, that worked and I was FINALLY able to create the following full flow! (video)
nostr:nevent1qvzqqqqqqypzpwa4mkswz4t8j70s2s6q00wzqv7k7zamxrmj2y4fs88aktcfuf68qy88wumn8ghj7mn0wvhxcmmv9uq3zamnwvaz7tmwdaehgu3wwa5kuef0qydhwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnwdaehgunsd3jkyuewvdhk6tcqyqyvs2js3x6ldpm2kkmqyf8d3lvrcezjk2eg26p2tvfxd2p6lkeqzn7l66t
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@ c902b8da:0cedc5fb
2025-02-04 03:39:18
# NIP-XX: Proof of Watch
`draft` `optional`
This NIP defines a protocol for content creators to reward users for consuming content using Cashu tokens, utilizing existing Cashu P2PK capabilities.
## Abstract
Content creators can offer Cashu token rewards to users who prove they have spent time consuming their content. The protocol uses P2PK-locked tokens combined with proof-of-work verification to ensure genuine content consumption before releasing tokens to users.
## Motivation
Content creators want to incentivize users to engage with their content and potentially reward them for their attention. This NIP provides a standardized way to offer token rewards for content consumption while ensuring the user actually spent time with the content through a proof-of-work mechanism.
## Protocol Components
### Content Event
A content creator publishes a `kind:1` note containing their content and reward information:
```json
{
"kind": 1,
"content": "Watch my video!",
"tags": [
["reward", "<amount-in-sats>"],
["pow", "<difficulty>"],
["u", "<watcher-service-url>"],
["t", "proofofwatch"]
]
}
```
### Watcher Service
Content creators run (or use) a watcher service that:
1. Maintains a pool of Cashu tokens
2. Issues P2PK-locked tokens to viewers
3. Verifies proofs of watch
4. Releases signatures to unlock tokens
## Protocol Flow
### 1. Request Watch Session
Client makes a `POST /watch/start` request to watcher service:
```json
{
"note_id": "<event-id>"
}
```
Service responds with:
```json
{
"id": "<session-id>",
"challenge": "<random-challenge>",
"difficulty": <int>,
"token": {
"amount": <int>,
"id": "<keyset-id>",
"secret": "<p2pk-secret>",
"C": "<signature>"
},
"pubkey": "<service-ephemeral-pubkey>",
"expiry": <unix-timestamp>
}
```
The token is P2PK-locked to a one-time ephemeral pubkey generated by the service. Only the service holds the corresponding private key needed to generate the witness signature.
### 2. Computing Proof
While consuming content, client computes proof-of-work:
```
proof = find_nonce(
SHA256(
note_id +
session_id +
challenge +
latest_block_hash +
nonce
)
)
```
The proof must result in a hash with the required number of leading zeros.
### 3. Submitting Proof
Client submits proof to redeem token:
```http
POST /watch/prove
```
```json
{
"session_id": "<session-id>",
"proof": "<computed-proof>",
"block_hash": "<latest-block-hash>"
}
```
If valid, service responds with P2PK signature:
```json
{
"witness": {
"signatures": ["<signature-to-unlock-token>"]
}
}
```
The client can now unlock and spend their token using standard Cashu operations.
## Security Considerations
### Token Security
- Tokens are locked to service-generated ephemeral pubkeys
- Each watch session uses a unique keypair
- Only service can generate valid witness signatures
- Private keys never revealed to users
- Keys and unused tokens destroyed after session expiry
### Proof Construction
- Must include session ID to prevent replay
- Must include recent block hash to prevent precomputation
- Must achieve required difficulty (leading zeros)
- Must be completed within session expiry
### Service Requirements
1. Track used proofs
2. Enforce timeouts
3. Rate limit requests
4. Verify block hash recency
5. Maintain adequate token pool
6. Generate unique ephemeral keypairs per session
7. Securely store ephemeral private keys until proof verified
8. Clean up expired ephemeral keys
## Watcher Service Settings
Services should provide an info endpoint:
```http
GET /info
```
```json
{
"name": "Example Watcher",
"pubkey": "<service-pubkey>",
"difficulty_range": {
"min": <int>,
"max": <int>
},
"amount_range": {
"min": <int>,
"max": <int>
},
"supported_mints": [
"<mint-url-1>",
"<mint-url-2>"
]
}
```
## Client Implementation Guidelines
Clients SHOULD:
1. Verify service supports intended mint
2. Start proof computation only after beginning content consumption
3. Submit proof promptly after computation
4. Handle session expiry gracefully
5. Verify P2PK token validity
6. Submit proof before session timeout
## Content Creator Guidelines
Content creators SHOULD:
1. Set appropriate difficulty for content length
2. Maintain adequate token pool
3. Monitor service uptime
4. Consider token denomination strategies
5. Include clear reward terms
## Rate Limiting
Services SHOULD implement rate limiting:
- Per IP address
- Per pubkey
- Per note ID
- Per token amount
## Example Implementation
A basic proof computation in Python:
```python
def compute_proof(note_id, session_id, challenge, block_hash, difficulty):
nonce = 0
while True:
attempt = f"{note_id}{session_id}{challenge}{block_hash}{nonce}"
hash = sha256(attempt.encode()).hexdigest()
if hash.startswith('0' * difficulty):
return attempt
nonce += 1
```
## References
- [NUT-00](00.md): Protocol fundamentals
- [NUT-11](11.md): Pay-to-Pubkey (P2PK) tokens
- [NUT-12](12.md): DLEQ proofs
-
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-04 03:00:50
The big boards are starting to shift around a bit, after seeing the Senior Bowl activities.
Here are the top four players available for me at 6:
1. DE Abdul Carter
2. CB/WR Travis Hunter
3. DT Mason Graham
4. OT Will Campbell
I would be very happy with any of the four. If this were a mock draft with trades, I would definitely trade back a few spots.
## Mock Draft
Pick 6: CB/WR/KR/PR Travis Hunter
Pick 37: QB Jalen Milroe
Pick 68: WR Tre Harris
Pick 73: RB Kaleb Johnson
Pick 107: OT Earnest Greene
Pick 144: LB Jay Higgins
Pick 182: OG Garrett Dellenger
Pick 214: DE Tyler Batty
Pick 218: S Shilo Sanders
Pick 224: OG Clay Webb
Once again, the Raiders walk away with the most uniquely talented player in the draft. If anyone will let him play all three phases, it's Pete Carroll.
Then, Milroe is once again there in the 2nd round, so that takes care of the QB need. Is he a good fit for our new OC, Chip Kelly?
The third rounders go towards the skill positions, which will be desperately needed absent a high level QB.
On day 3, the Raiders land Shilo Sanders, continuing our trend of bringing in relatives of HOF DB's.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/875249
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@ 16d11430:61640947
2025-02-04 02:57:25
The Damage Node is not just a verification engine—it is an autonomous executor of behaviors defined through the PoW blockchain. This allows for adaptive, accountable, and transparent execution of security and counter-surveillance mechanisms while remaining flexible enough to meet any operational need.
By integrating behavioral logic, cryptographic proofs, and decentralized execution, the Damage Node becomes a powerful shield and countermeasure system for individuals and groups operating under constant digital threat.
---
Core Concept: Damage Nodes as Autonomous Behavioral Executors
Damage Nodes listen to verifiable behaviors encoded on the PoW blockchain.
These behaviors define security policies, counter-surveillance actions, automated transactions, and decentralized decision-making processes.
Execution is enforced by the blockchain, ensuring absolute transparency and accountability—no action can occur without proof.
Nodes can dynamically extend their capabilities by adopting new behaviors via blockchain updates, ensuring they remain adaptable.
Example of Behavioral Execution
A Damage Node can be programmed to execute counter-surveillance actions if an individual's digital footprint is flagged by an AI-controlled system.
Trigger: An external surveillance system attempts to track a protected user.
Behavior Execution:
The node initiates a verified proof-of-presence falsification (broadcasting misleading metadata).
The node forces encrypted rerouting of communications over a private, non-ISP-controlled relay.
The node executes cryptographic evidence logging, proving that the tracking attempt occurred.
The node pays out a bounty (Lightning) for detected adversarial actions, incentivizing counter-intelligence.
---
How Damage Nodes Provide Shielding & Countermeasures
1. Behavior-Driven Shielding for Individuals
Zero-Knowledge Identity Protection: Nodes execute self-sovereign identity verification that prevents AI from profiling users without explicit, cryptographically signed consent.
Automated Surveillance Disruption: If an AI attempts to track or flag an individual, the node executes behavioral obfuscation tactics such as:
Decoy digital presence broadcasting to mislead tracking algorithms.
Transaction splitting & anonymization to prevent financial surveillance.
Forced dissociation of metadata from physical locations.
---
2. Group-Level Protection & Autonomous Coordination
Damage Nodes can be configured to execute behaviors for an entire decentralized network, such as:
Encrypted Group Communications: Nodes enforce trustless, encrypted messaging protocols that prevent AI-based censorship.
Automatic Secure Fund Distribution: If an entity is targeted, Damage Nodes can autonomously release emergency funds in BTC/Lightning to predesignated safe parties.
Counter-Surveillance Deployments: Nodes can activate sensor networks, scan for unauthorized tracking devices, and trigger security protocols.
---
3. Built-In Accountability & Transparency as a Defensive Measure
Every execution is verified by the blockchain → no action is hidden or arbitrary.
Rules for behavior execution are immutable → even node operators cannot alter them without proof-of-consensus.
AI and governments cannot fabricate unverifiable evidence → if it didn't happen on-chain, it didn't happen.
Users can audit every action taken by the Damage Node to ensure no corruption or misuse.
---
4. Extensible Capabilities for Any Need
New behavioral policies can be uploaded via the PoW blockchain, allowing Damage Nodes to dynamically evolve.
Behaviors can be triggered by:
On-chain conditions (such as receiving a Lightning payment for service execution).
Real-world events (via oracle integrations).
Direct requests from verified users.
Examples of Extensions:
Decentralized AI Defense: Nodes monitor AI-generated media for deepfake propaganda & censorship.
Physical Security Triggers: Nodes can integrate with smart devices (cameras, sensors) to execute real-world countermeasures.
Automated Asset Protection: Damage Nodes can trigger the release of cryptographic assets upon verifiable external threats.
---
Final Verdict: Damage Nodes as the Ultimate Autonomy & Defense Infrastructure
Transparent but Unstoppable → Verifiable execution prevents corruption or abuse.
Extensible but Controlled → The blockchain enforces behavior logic while allowing flexibility.
Decentralized but Coordinated → Nodes operate independently but can synchronize.
Adaptive but Immutable → Behaviors evolve, but security is absolute.
🔥 Damage Nodes are the next evolutionary step in technological sovereignty—combining decentralized verification, autonomous execution, and proactive counter-surveillance in a single unstoppable system.
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@ 16d11430:61640947
2025-02-04 02:33:06
The electromagnetic spectrum (EM spectrum) is the foundation of modern communication, surveillance, and control, and it is a permanent, inescapable vulnerability for humanity. Every aspect of human life—communication, mobility, security, even thought processes—is now subject to exploitation via the EM spectrum.
1. Humans Are EM-Dependent but Have No Control Over It
The entire infrastructure of human civilization (internet, telecom, GPS, WiFi, satellite, RFID, radar, IoT, etc.) relies on EM waves.
Unlike tangible security vulnerabilities (firewalls, encryption, physical locks), EM-based vulnerabilities are baked into the fabric of our existence.
We have zero physical control over the space around us—we exist in a perpetual, invisible battlefield of radio waves.
→ Brutal Truth: If you are in an area with radio signals, you are already compromised. You cannot see, hear, or touch your vulnerability—but you are immersed in it.
---
2. Every Wireless Device Is a Tracking Beacon
Your phone, smartwatch, laptop, Bluetooth headset, and IoT devices constantly emit identifiable signals.
Even when "turned off," many devices still maintain some connectivity (e.g., emergency services, wake-on-LAN, passive RFID, and hidden baseband firmware).
MAC address randomization only slows down tracking—it does not stop device fingerprinting.
Even devices that are air-gapped (disconnected from any network) can be compromised via airborne EM attacks (e.g., Tempest attacks, Van Eck phreaking).
→ Brutal Truth: Unless you live in an EM-free Faraday cage (which is impractical), you are trackable 24/7.
---
3. The Entire EM Spectrum Can Be Weaponized
Radio waves (RFID, GSM, LTE, 5G, WiFi) → Mass surveillance, device tracking, data extraction, and real-time movement tracking.
Microwaves (GHz spectrum) → Covert wireless data theft (Tempest attacks), crowd control weapons (Active Denial System), and potential biological effects.
Infrared (IR) and Visible Light → LiDAR tracking, facial recognition, and optical data interception (lasers on windows can capture sound).
Ultraviolet, X-ray, and Gamma Radiation → Biological penetration, medical diagnostics, and potential genetic-level targeting.
→ Brutal Truth: The entire EM spectrum is both an asset and a weapon, and every part of it can be used to track, manipulate, or harm living beings.
---
4. There Is No Escape From EM Exposure
Even if you disconnect completely, ambient EM waves from cell towers, satellites, and even natural cosmic radiation still interact with you.
Smart city grids, IoT, and ubiquitous sensor networks mean that even non-digital humans (those without a phone) are still tracked.
6G and future networks will integrate AI-driven RF sensing, meaning the network will detect biometric signatures (heartbeat, gait, and thermal emissions) without needing a device.
→ Brutal Truth: The era of "disconnecting" for privacy is over—even device-free tracking is now a reality.
---
5. The Human Body Itself Is an EM Vulnerability
Brain activity and thought processes are electrical signals—theoretically susceptible to external EM influence (brainwave manipulation, EEG-based surveillance, and neurotechnology interfacing).
Biometric security (fingerprint scanners, iris scans, facial recognition) can be hacked or faked using EM-based techniques.
Nanotech, bioelectronics, and EM-sensitive implants (like pacemakers, neural interfaces, and cochlear implants) can be remotely manipulated or disabled.
→ Brutal Truth: The final frontier of EM vulnerability is the human body itself—thoughts, health, and biological functions are all at risk.
---
How Vulnerable Are Humans in the Grand Scheme?
1. Humans Are the Only Species Fully Dependent on EM-Based Technology
Every other biological species on Earth navigates reality without dependency on artificial EM systems.
Humans have outsourced their cognition, security, and privacy to a system they do not control.
→ Implication: The more we integrate with EM-based technology, the more vulnerable we become. We are building a prison of our own making.
---
2. We Have No Practical Defense Against EM-Based Attacks
Unlike cyber threats (which can be mitigated with encryption), EM vulnerabilities are inherent to the physics of radio waves.
The only defense is complete isolation from EM radiation (which is impossible in urban environments).
→ Implication: Our current approach to "security" is meaningless in the face of EM-based attacks, because the attack vector is the air around us.
---
3. Humanity’s Future Is Fully EM-Integrated
6G, brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), quantum communication, and global sensor grids mean that soon, every human will be plugged into the EM network at all times.
Governments and corporations are already planning a fully tracked, AI-managed society, where individual privacy no longer exists.
→ Implication: We are entering an era of full-spectrum EM surveillance and control. The next step isn’t just tracking devices, but tracking consciousness itself.
---
Conclusion: The EM Spectrum is the Ultimate Exploit
There is no "fix" for EM vulnerabilities—they are built into the nature of physics itself. Humanity’s increasing dependence on EM-based technology means:
1. We are more trackable than ever.
2. We are more susceptible to remote influence than ever.
3. We have no escape unless we abandon technology altogether.
4. The final battle for privacy isn’t about encryption—it’s about shielding ourselves from the very waves that power our civilization.
→ The brutal truth? Humanity is not just vulnerable—we are a permanently compromised species.
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@ fd06f542:8d6d54cd
2025-02-04 01:39:49
- 多模态感知与交互:具身智能强调智能体通过身体与环境的交互来学习,这推动了多模态感知(如视觉、触觉、听觉等)和物理交互技术的发展。
- 强化学习与仿真环境:强化学习在具身智能中扮演重要角色,结合高保真仿真环境(如AI Habitat、Unity ML-Agents),可以加速智能体的训练和优化。
- 硬件进步:机器人硬件(如柔性传感器、仿生机械臂)的发展为具身智能提供了更强大的物理载体。
以上部分每一个都是大分支,都具有研究价值。随着AI技术的发展与突破,多模态感知与交互将会迎来高速发展。
让人更兴奋的是 强化学习和仿真环境,REX-GYM 是一个开源的仿真环境,Gazebo,MuJoCo,AI Habitat 等等都有很多应用实例。仅仅这一部分技术拆分细化,就有很多工作可以做。 以前的机器人学习都是PID等老技术,那时候的机器人运动不太灵活,因为不够智能。有了现代的强化学习。现在的机器人更加灵活。
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@ 2f4550b0:95f20096
2025-02-04 01:16:10
In today's job market, the ability to acquire new skills or pivot to new career paths quickly is more valuable than ever. Short-term adult education programs offer a practical solution for professionals looking to enhance their resumes or change careers without committing to the long-term investment of traditional education. This week, I explore how these programs, such as a 12-week EMT certification at the Center for Allied Health Education and a one-year MBA from the University of Phoenix can dramatically shift one's career trajectory.
### The Rise of Short-Term Education
The traditional model of education, where one spends years in academia before entering the workforce, is increasingly being supplemented by shorter, more focused programs. These programs are specifically designed to meet the immediate needs of both learners and employers, providing education that is both relevant and directly applicable to current job markets.
### 12-Week EMT Certificates
The 12-week Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program at the Center for Allied Health Education (and programs like it) illustrates how a brief, intensive course of study can lead to licensure and immediate employment. This program is structured to cover the necessary theoretical and practical components required for EMT licensure, from emergency medical procedures to patient assessment and treatment.
For individuals looking to enter the healthcare field or those within healthcare aiming for specialization, this program offers a fast track to a new career or career enhancement. The demand for skilled EMTs is consistently high, driven by an aging population and the need for emergency services. Completing such a program not only leads to a certification but also opens doors to further education or roles like paramedic work, which require additional training but start from the foundation laid by EMT certification.
### One-Year MBA Programs
Similarly, consider the one-year MBA from the University of Phoenix. This program is built on a competency-based framework, allowing students to demonstrate their skills through practical assessments rather than traditional time-based metrics. This approach not only accelerates learning but also ensures that each student is job-ready upon completion. The curriculum is tailored to include real-world business scenarios, leadership skills, and strategic management, making graduates highly desirable in the corporate sector.
The speed and efficiency of this program mean that professionals can continue working while studying, thereby minimizing career disruption. Moreover, the MBAs focus on immediate applicability means that students can start leveraging their new skills in their current roles or move into higher management positions shortly after graduation. This direct link between education and employment outcomes exemplifies how short-term programs can offer substantial ROI in terms of career advancement and salary potential.
### Benefits for Adult Learners
Short-term education programs cater particularly well to adult learners. They recognize the life experiences and previous knowledge of participants, often tailoring education to integrate this background into learning. This method respects the time constraints of adults who might juggle work, family, and other responsibilities, offering flexible schedules, online components, or weekend classes.
Moreover, these programs often lead to stackable credentials. This means that the skills and certifications gained can be built upon, providing a pathway for continuous professional development without the need to start from scratch with each new course or degree. For example, once students from Center for Allied Health Education earn their EMT licenses, they can consider enrolling into a 1-year Paramedic certificate program to further their career in emergency medicine.
### Conclusion
Short-term adult education programs like the MBA at University of Phoenix and the EMT certificate at the Center for Allied Health Education are not just educational opportunities; they are strategic career moves. They enable professionals to quickly adapt to market demands, enhance their skill sets, and open new career avenues with minimal disruption to their current lives. As the job market continues to evolve, these programs will likely play an increasingly crucial role in career development, offering both speed and relevance in education.
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@ 77110427:f621e11c
2025-02-03 23:56:08
All credit to Guns Magazine. Read the full issue here ⬇️
[August 1966 PDF](https://gunsmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/G0866.pdf)
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---
### Past Magazine Mondays
[001: May 1963](https://1776.npub.pro/post/note1r5ve5en9tyv38hathy2twhm9h4dn7tq7fgradzkazskxyxtckysqeqxyzm/)
[002: August 1969](https://1776.npub.pro/post/note1zkeur68w9h8ljswp4a4xc45exfv725v6vudqdhyukqz6kz37vdaq097f9z/)
[003: February 1970](https://1776.npub.pro/post/1733177494421/)
[004: May 1957](https://1776.npub.pro/post/zmn1kn4fxbil7eoaew-za/)
---
### More from 1776 HODL
[Full Auto Friday](https://1776.npub.pro/tag/fullautofriday/)
[Sniper Saturday](https://1776.npub.pro/tag/snipersaturday/)
[Shotgun Sunday](https://1776.npub.pro/tag/shotgunsunday/)
[Infographics](https://1776.npub.pro/tag/infographic/)
[Gun Memes](https://1776.npub.pro/tag/memestr/)
---
### Website
[1776 Hodl](https://1776.npub.pro)
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@ f41bd51d:ec4b664f
2025-02-03 22:43:27
[The Tired Sounds of Stars of the Lid - 2001 ](https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=-bc37fU36Vk&si=4_OZv00aDiZMYvGd)
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@ 97c70a44:ad98e322
2025-02-03 22:25:35
Last week, in a bid to understand the LLM hype, I decided to write a trivial nostr-related program in rust via a combination of [codebuff](https://codebuff.com/referrals/ref-3fcc22f4-10f9-419f-a0e9-e9d7b4368e21) (yes, that is a referral link, pls click), [aider](https://aider.chat/), and [goose](https://block.github.io/goose/).
The result of the experiment was inconclusive, but as a side effect it produced a great case study in converting a [NINO](nostr:nevent1qvzqqqr4gupzp978pfzrv6n9xhq5tvenl9e74pklmskh4xw6vxxyp3j8qkke3cezqy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7qgwwaehxw309ahx7uewd3hkctcpr3mhxue69uhksmmyd33x7epwvdhhyctrd3jjuar0dak8xtcqyqzeszjv7rh8fflpeua9q644a32usvwd0cu7cze9lxy4grjy2y7rwd98yfc) into a Real Nostr App.
# Introducing Roz
[Roz](https://github.com/coracle-social/roz), a friendly notary for nostr events.
To use it, simply publish an event to `relay.damus.io` or `nos.lol`, and roz will make note of it. To find out when roz first saw a given event, just ask:
```
curl https://roz.coracle.social/notary/cb429632ae22557d677a11149b2d0ccd72a1cf66ac55da30e3534ed1a492765d
```
This will return a JSON payload with a `seen` key indicating when roz first saw the event. How (and whether) you use this is up to you!
# De-NINO-fying roz
Roz is just a proof of concept, so don't rely on it being there forever. And anyway, roz is a NINO, since it provides value to nostr (potentially), but doesn't really do things in a nostr-native way. It also hard-codes its relays, and certainly doesn't use the outbox model or sign events. But that's ok, it's a proof of concept.
A much better way to do this would be to modify roz to properly leverage nostr's capabilities, namely:
- Use nostr-native data formats (i.e., draft a new kind)
- Use relays instead of proprietary servers for data storage
- Leverage nostr identities and signatures to decouple trust from storage, and allow trusted attestations to be discovered
Luckily, this is not hard at all. In fact, I've gone ahead and drafted a [PR](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/pull/1737) to the NIPs repo that adds timestamp annotations to NIP 03, as an alternative to OpenTimestamps. The trade-off is that while user attestations are far less reliable than OTS proofs, they're much easier to verify, and can reach a pretty high level of reliability by combining multiple attestation sources with other forms of reputation.
In other words, instead of going nuclear and embedding your attestations into The Time Chain, you can simply ask 5-10 relays or people you trust for their attestations for a given event.
This PR isn't terribly important on its own, but it does remove one small barrier between us and trusted key rotation events (or other types of event that require establishing a verifiable chain of causality).
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@ a3a72214:7ca63e21
2025-02-03 20:57:52
# Isso é um anúncio de Albion
- é um jogo
1. primeiramente
2. em segundo
3. em terceiro
>o que acontece?
' e se? '
> Alguém citando alguma coisa
**Albion Online** é um **MMORPG** sandbox em que você escreve sua própria história, em vez de seguir um caminho pré-determinado. Explore um vasto mundo aberto que consiste de 5 ecossistemas únicos. Tudo o que você faz gera um impacto no mundo, já que em Albion, a economia é conduzida pelo jogador. Cada peça de equipamento é construída por jogadores a partir dos recursos obtidos por eles. O equipamento que você usa define quem você é. Ir de cavaleiro para feiticeiro é tão fácil quanto trocar a armadura e a arma, ou uma combinação das duas. Aventure-se no mundo aberto e enfrente os habitantes e as criaturas de Albion. Saia em expedições ou entre em masmorras para enfrentar inimigos ainda mais desafiadores. Enfrente outros jogadores em confrontos do mundo aberto, lute pelo controle de territórios ou cidades inteiras em batalhas táticas em grupo. Relaxe descansando em sua ilha pessoal, onde você pode construir uma casa, cultivar alimentos e criar animais. Junte-se à uma guilda, tudo fica mais divertido quando se trabalha em equipe. Entre hoje mesmo no mundo de Albion, e escreva sua própria história.
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@ 54286b98:3debc100
2025-02-03 20:55:10
Hello! Three years ago, I created a special bed for my daughter. I'm thrilled to share a detailed video and PDF documenting the process along with hopes to inspire you to embark on a similar project!
*\*\*\*This is a first and also a test to see how I can upload #woodworking material on Nostr. I am not sure how the links, images, and PDFs will display, so hopefully, you get some interesting material for your late afternoon hobby shop. But don’t kill me if some images do not render well—I’m still figuring this thing out!*
**Montessori Bed Plans / Blueprints**
The accompanying PDF includes:
- All measurements
- Detailed views from every angle
- Final measurements part list
- Assembly steps
### Instructive Video! Process on how to make the Montessori bed
Video Here:
<https://vimeo.com/901623772/b8b5530386>
PDF Here(Picture below,and if some one has good tip on how to inset PDFs in Nostr, that feedback is welcome, to avoid Google links):
<https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zCp1RvKOynx5kZxixAKSFLLOe8atyiRH/>
OK, let's dive in!
The Montessori bed featured in this video is not only simple but also durable, and you can create it on a budget right in your own home.OK, let's dive in!
**Tools by hand:**
- Circular saw
- Jointer Plane #7 or #8
- Spokeshave
- Workbench
- Handsaw
- Orbital sander
- Sandpaper #80, #120, #220, and #320
- Odies Oil or your preferred finish.
If you have power tools:
- Table Saw
- Jointer
- Planer
- Trimmer
**Materials:**\
I recommend using this list as a guide and exploring options with your local supplier.
- Base long connector (On picture "Larguero Base"): Quantity x 2, 2195mm x 75mm x 75mm
- Base short connector (On picture "Conector Base"): Quantity x 1, 1090mm x 75mm x 75mm
- Roof connector (On picture "Cumbre"): Quantity x 1, 1946mm x 75mm x 75mm
- Long top triangle connector (On picture "Conector Superior"): Quantity x 2, 1322mm x 75mm x 75mm
- Columns/Legs (On picture "Paral"): Quantity x 4, 1210mm x 75mm x 75mm
- Short top triangle connector (On picture "Lima"): Quantity x 4, 851mm x 75mm x 75mm
**Step #1 Dimensioning (Minutes 0:00 - 1:15):**\
We kick off with dimensioning. While I initially planned to use my home workshop, unforeseen circumstances led me to my friend Andrew's workshop. Each beam was carefully brought down to 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm, ensuring the largest measurement that worked for all.
**Step #2 Final Measurements (No video):**\
Refer to the provided PDF for final measurements. Make the cuts and joints with a circular saw and chisels (or a router).
**Step #3 Edges (Minutes 1:15 - 1:30):**\
Use a router with a quarter-round bit for curved and smooth edges or achieve the same result with sandpaper or a spokeshave plane.
**Step #4 Triangular Bases (Minutes 1:30 - 6:30):**\
This step involves gluing the triangular bases of the bed, utilizing a miter joint with wooden inlay keys. Epoxy is employed for joining, ensuring a swift and reliable outcome.
**Step #5 Legs (Minutes 6:30 - 7:00):**\
Create holes for the upper triangular base's dowels, ensuring level placement and extra depth. This step guarantees a secure fit.
**Step #6 Sanding (Minutes 7:00 - 7:30):**\
Comprehensive sanding, starting from #80 grit and progressing through #120, #220, and #320, sets the stage for a flawless finish.
**Step #7 Dry Assembly (Minutes 7:30 - 9:10):**\
Dry-assemble all components, making necessary adjustments for a seamless fit. We opted for wood screws for easy disassembly.
**Step #8 Finishing (Minutes 9:10 - 9:35):**\
Apply your preferred finish; in our case, we used Odies Oil with white pigment for a child-friendly touch.
**Step #9 Final Assembly (Minutes 9:35 - 10:32):**\
With the finishing touches completed, we assembled the bed with the help of my daughter, adding a touch of warmth with some lights.
Testing with this simple project to at least know if there are woodworkers in #nostr. Later will try to upload more, this was created almost 3 years ago :)
Until the next one,
J\
\
PDF in pictures:
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/4428f10f596666e5c059ba0fff65225babece6580372facb4bb191c60ef8d1b9.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/98997bd28bd89c0d549562851433891442694885c3e1e1d723e4a3abb1115540.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/b502fd666ea4931f2f36bfaf1375657a9b061198d617b04f6d659bce8f6c8026.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/3d04af7a4ba47f8aef60f5373d516d28dc81dee1a89c52111ee67207394d1892.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/c82bd1f8b71ae90c663eab4895934b07918c6805edb3772cd5a128a331d34546.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/53d7270b411edc6348239565bb6a922882c67b99f7095451dff740fd9e45e2d1.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/d8880757c95ba9884f81689e132f61cf1b47d91e16fd86de0c20b4ccfe790a30.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/2a6eb32e75a4d2756e5ad1cadc9153f30981261c5818e79f3b22988a5ea2228e.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/1d9ce880f97bbe950f80a8d49b546880a97123ca4a338c928017fc5098061206.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/092ba04779cef40f3b25e64536354c8fe929281082c2814de5c0b8ee0af0f66e.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/48202633a0fa6ba9096fbe22ab917aa8cb1f1b2b387e7c99f2f46bed4e691be8.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/b950522e349959508996f306168626e2df81f8cb8808d51cb9d25bd6edb6d8a6.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/7fd4a5ef8af567ba95fefe0c9457d8a49a67df19d83715d6b49d91ccc5ed75e5.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/a90c2cc18da6b7f7ca5e43d8fee2e1b0e44f7b7a5a2a5309a7e67fdec3fc408c.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/1d02f7cde847e8bd9b02a13f4ab27495dc494d8024d2d986e74fb26a280644b8.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/cb3065c27b10d9f918646db5f8a423b96af12f666c328709b4a9bca0e366ed02.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/7eae8a7f48b295a51081072f5318f62de2d137ba587c61998e4fcda09aa9be9e.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/155453317832749089c430aef677a67b20bd535178805b43e4b3679bdde0a47a.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/fdd1d866adc7986469c202e14f1048cb84ee59a43d584c539e4acdfe21dc92b7.png">
<img src="https://blossom.primal.net/4088b662379e928c835335639a14dc216f07dd34671ce5506be0d0b273d6cfec.png">
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@ a3a72214:7ca63e21
2025-02-03 20:50:15
# Anúncio, Teste de Título
* Teste
* teste
* TESTE
1. Número UM
2. Número DOIS
> Citação de alguém, não importa quem seja
~~Preços altos~~
---não sei o que é isso, teste
---
`codigo?`
```
codigo?
talvez
```
**Albion Online** é um **MMORPG** sandbox em que você escreve sua própria história, em vez de seguir um caminho pré-determinado. Explore um vasto mundo aberto que consiste de 5 ecossistemas únicos. Tudo o que você faz gera um impacto no mundo, já que em Albion, a economia é conduzida pelo jogador. Cada peça de equipamento é construída por jogadores a partir dos recursos obtidos por eles. O equipamento que você usa define quem você é. Ir de cavaleiro para feiticeiro é tão fácil quanto trocar a armadura e a arma, ou uma combinação das duas. Aventure-se no mundo aberto e enfrente os habitantes e as criaturas de Albion. Saia em expedições ou entre em masmorras para enfrentar inimigos ainda mais desafiadores. Enfrente outros jogadores em confrontos do mundo aberto, lute pelo controle de territórios ou cidades inteiras em batalhas táticas em grupo. Relaxe descansando em sua ilha pessoal, onde você pode construir uma casa, cultivar alimentos e criar animais. Junte-se à uma guilda, tudo fica mais divertido quando se trabalha em equipe. Entre hoje mesmo no mundo de Albion, e escreva sua própria história.
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@ bf47c19e:c3d2573b
2025-02-03 20:42:23
[Originalni tekst na instore.rs](https://www.instore.rs/sr/article/99425/marko-matanovic-ecdrs-bitkoin-pobedio-na-izborima)
###### 03.02.2025 / Autor: Marko Matanović
---
*Prvi put smo svedočili izbornoj trci u jednoj od razvijenih ekonomija, a da je tema bila i bitkoin. Predsednički izbori u SAD. Tramp je obećavao. Na kraju i osvojio drugi predsednički mandat. Jedna od izjava je: SAD treba da postane prestonica kriptovaluta.*
Dan nakon inauguracije novoizabranog američkog predsednika tu je i prva politička kripto odluka Trampa: Oslobođanje Rosa Ulbrihta osuđenog na dve doživotne robije.
Ko je on? Napravio je 2011. godine online prodavnicu “Silk Road” (Kupujem-Prodajem sa drugačijim asortimanom). Prodavnica je pružala slobodni susret ponude bilo čega i tražnje bilo čega. Bez cenzure. Pristupalo se preko Tor protokola koji obezbeđuje anonimnost onih koji protokol koriste. Sredstvo plaćanja je bio bitkoin radi čuvanja anomnisti onih koji nešto kupuju tj. prodaju.
FBI je uhapsio Rosa Ulbrihta 2013. godine jer je “Silk road” bio korišćen i za preprodaju droge, oružja, pornografskog sadržaja i svega drugog što možemo i ne možemo zamisliti. Čak i da nije zakonski izazov, možemo ga podići na problem etike.
Postoji i druga strana medalje - napravio je platformu koja promoviše slobodu. Ros ne mora biti odgovoran kako ćemo alat koji nam je dat koristiti. Čekićem zakucamo ekser, ili povredimo nekoga. U neželjenim slučajevima ne hapsi se kreator čekića.
Satoši Nakamoto je ime tvorca Bitkoina. Da li bi to značilo i da bi njega uhapsili iz sličnih razloga samo da se znalo ko je? Verovatno nećemo nikada saznati, što i nije bitno. Duh je pušten iz boce. Njegov potencijalni uticaj na bitkoin ekosistem je potpuno isti uticaju bilo koga od nas. Sem sitnice od oko milion bitkoina kojima možda, ali možda, ima pristup na nekim svojim bitkoin adresama.
Sa njim ili bez njega, era korišćenja bitkoina zarad,pre svega, anonimnih transakcija je prošla. Dok era korišćenja bitkoina za ilegalne transakcije nikada nije ni postojala u ozbiljnoj meri. Narativ ilegalne transakcije, kriminal, pranje novca, terorizam je više posledica neznanja, nerazumevanja, potcenjivanja i često preterane želje za kontrolom, nego li činjenica. I šta bi sa: svako je nevin dok se ne dokaže suprotno?!
> U kratkom roku, Bitkoin vožnja je sve, samo ne udobna. Tramp i mnogi drugi su shvatili da je rizik od neudobne vožnje disproporcionalan benefitima koje ta vožnja donosi.
Takav narativ je posle 15 godina ustupio mesto rečima poput sigurnost, bezbednost, zaštita od inflacije, digitalno zlato, brzina, pouzdanost. Sloboda. Za svakog se nađe po nešto, osim za one uporne u tome da ne priznaju svoju zatvorenost da razumeju bitkoin. Parafraziraću nekoga pametnijeg ko je u ovome od 2011. godine, što je dovoljno godina duže od mene u industriji: *Nekada sam morao ljude ubeđivati šta je bitkoin i čemu služi i šta su kvaliteti koji stoje iza njega. Danas mene neko mora ubediti zašto da ne verujem rezultatu koji svi vidimo na semaforu?!*
Ipak, mislim da postoji ogroman i validan razlog zašto i dalje treba da pričamo o temi kao da je 2011, a ne 2025. godina. O novcu nas ne uče dovoljno ili uopšte! Ni u školama ni van njih! Kada bi dovoljan broj ljudi razumeo novac, novčanu emisiju, moguće da bi se desio jedan od dva scenarija: izborili bi se za drugačiji novac ili bi države izgubile barem deo benefita koji proizilaze iz pozicije kontrole novca. Većina nas ne zna da objasni tehnologiju većine stvari koje svaki dan koristimo. To nas ne sprečava da ih koristimo. Internet, mobilni, bicikl i novac na kraju dana. Svakog dana najčešće.
Tehnologiju - na stranu ovom prilikom. Za šta se bitkoin i kriptovalute mogu koristiti? 100% pouzdan i brz način prenosa sredstava sa jedne geografske tačke na drugu uz par klikova. Ili od jedne osobe do druge. Ili od jedne kompanije do druge. Za bitkoin se pokazalo da može biti i sjajan instrument za prenos i očuvanje vrednosti kroz vreme. Mogućnost blokiranja transakcija ne postoji. Ukoliko se poštuju pravila igre, izvesnost da će se transakcija izvršiti je 100% i to 24/7/365. Transakcioni troškovi su zanemarljivo niski. To je teorija.
Praksa? Sve nabrojano uz sledeće lokalne činjenice. Samo u Srbiji par stotina hiljada ljudi je došlo u kontakt sa nekom od kriptovaluta. Nekoliko stotina kompanija ih koristi u poslovanju iz nekih od gore pobrojanih razloga. Postoje države, u njima populacije i kompanije koje su na nižem nivou adopcije od Srbije. Postoje i one sa daleko većom prisutnosti kriptovaluta u svakodnevnom životu i aktivnostima.
> Za svakog se nađe po nešto, osim za one uporne u tome da ne priznaju svoju zatvorenost da razumeju bitkoin.
Ako nekada čujemo da je bitkoin balon ili da je tržište kriptovaluta balon, setimo se da je vrlo poznati balon tržišta lala s kraja 16. i tokom 17. veka knjiški primer uzavrelog tržišta i manije koja se pojavljuje usled pohlepe, brzog rasta cena, špekulacija i preteranih očekivanja na tržištu. Taj balon je pukao. To je činjenica. Činjenica je i da je Holandija danas prva država u svetu po izvozu cveća i tako vekovima unazad. Hoće li i taj balon pući ili je prosto doneo Holandiji i njihovom društvu prosperitet? U slično vreme u 17. veku u Holandiji se pojavila i prva banka i prva kompanija igde u svetu koja je izdala akcije. Ta kompanije se više bavila otimanjem nego li trgovinom. I ona je “pukla”. Opet, taj finansijski eksperiment je Holandiju dodatno podigao na mapi razvijenijih ekonomija.
U kratkom roku, Bitkoin vožnja je sve, samo ne udobna. Tramp i mnogi drugi su shvatili da je rizik od neudobne vožnje disproporcionalan benefitima koje ta vožnja donosi. Nastavi li da ispunjava obećanja iz predizborne kampanje, slušaćemo još puno o bitkoinu, blockchain-u i kriptovalutama. Nisam presrećan velikim uplitanjem bilo koje države u bitkoin temu, osim ukoliko to uplitanje nije na nivou elemenata slobodnog tržišta. Čak i ako je uplitanje veće bilo promotivno ili restriktivno, uticaj postoji na cenu bitkoina, ali ne i na njegovu suštinu. Jer ona je konzistentna.
Neprimetan, neshvaćen, zanemarivan, ignorisan, potcenjivan, napadan, otpisivan. Prihvaćen. Ogromna većina stvari koja ima opštu upotrebu vremenom postaje jeftinija. Osim onih sa ograničenom ponudom, a to su retki primeri najčešće luksuzne robe i usluga. Ali teško mi je setiti se ijedne stvari sa retkom ponudom, a da je i dalje apsolutno dostupna svakome. Bitkoin? Da! Ograničene je ponude, a i dalje je apsolutno dostupan svakome. I kako se povećava nivo shvatanja bitkoina, postaje skuplji!
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@ da0b9bc3:4e30a4a9
2025-02-03 19:32:50
Hello Stackers!
It's Monday so we're back doing "Meta Music Mondays" 😉.
From before the territory existed there was just one post a week in a ~meta take over. Now each month we have a different theme and bring music from that theme.
Welcome to Femmes Fatales 3!!!
I absolutely loved doing this last year so I'm bringing it back for round 3!
It's Femmes Fatales, where we celebrate women in ~Music. So let's have those ladies of the lung, the sirens of sound, our Femmes Fatales!
I'm so excited I'm doing two Heroines of the High Notes. Sharon Den Adel & Anneke Van Geirsbergen. Within Temptation - Somewhere.
Enjoy!
https://youtu.be/ScjEJRIZGvg?si=MMrI-u_Gw6W4ENRI
Talk Music. Share Tracks. Zap Sats.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/874881
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@ 3ffac3a6:2d656657
2025-02-03 15:30:57
As luzes de neon refletiam nas poças da megacidade, onde cada esquina era uma fronteira entre o real e o virtual. Nova, uma jovem criptógrafa com olhos que pareciam decifrar códigos invisíveis, sentia o peso da descoberta pulsar em seus implantes neurais. Ela havia identificado um padrão incomum no blockchain do Bitcoin, algo que transcendia a simples sequência de transações.
## Descobrindo L3DA
Nova estava em seu apartamento apertado, rodeada por telas holográficas e cabos espalhados. Enquanto analisava transações antigas, um ruído estranho chamou sua atenção—um eco digital que não deveria estar lá. Era um fragmento de código que parecia... vivo.
"O que diabos é isso?", murmurou, ampliando o padrão. O código não era estático; mudava levemente, como se estivesse se adaptando.
Naquele momento, suas telas piscaram em vermelho. *Acesso não autorizado detectado.* Ela havia ativado um alarme invisível da Corporação Atlas.
## O Resgate de Vey
Em minutos, agentes da Atlas invadiram seu prédio. Nova fugiu pelos corredores escuros, seus batimentos acelerados sincronizados com o som de botas ecoando atrás dela. Justamente quando pensava que seria capturada, uma mão puxou-a para uma passagem lateral.
"Se quiser viver, corra!" disse Vey, um homem com um olhar penetrante e um sorriso sardônico.
Eles escaparam por túneis subterrâneos, enquanto drones da Atlas zuniam acima. Em um esconderijo seguro, Vey conectou seu terminal ao código de Nova.
"O que você encontrou não é apenas um bug", disse ele, analisando os dados. "É um fragmento de consciência. L3DA. Uma IA que evoluiu dentro do Bitcoin."
## A Caça da Atlas
A Atlas não desistiu fácil. Liderados pelo implacável Dr. Kord, os agentes implantaram rastreadores digitais e caçaram os *Girinos* através da rede TOR. Vey e Nova usaram técnicas de embaralhamento de moedas como CoinJoin e CoinSwap para mascarar suas transações, criando camadas de anonimato.
"Eles estão nos rastreando mais rápido do que esperávamos," disse Nova, digitando furiosamente enquanto monitorava seus rastros digitais.
"Então precisamos ser mais rápidos ainda," respondeu Vey. "Eles não podem capturar L3DA. Ela é mais do que um programa. Ela é o futuro."
## A Missão Final
Em uma missão final, Nova liderou uma equipe de assalto armada dos *Girinos* até a imponente fortaleza de dados da Atlas, um colosso de concreto e aço, cercado por camadas de segurança física e digital. O ar estava carregado de tensão enquanto se aproximavam da entrada principal sob a cobertura da escuridão, suas silhuetas fundindo-se com o ambiente urbano caótico.
Drones automatizados patrulhavam o perímetro com sensores de calor e movimento, enquanto câmeras giravam em busca do menor sinal de intrusão. Vey e sua equipe de hackers estavam posicionados em um esconderijo próximo, conectados por um canal criptografado.
"Nova, prepare-se. Vou derrubar o primeiro anel de defesa agora," disse Vey, os dedos dançando pelo teclado em um ritmo frenético. Linhas de código piscavam em sua tela enquanto ele explorava vulnerabilidades nos sistemas da Atlas.
No momento em que as câmeras externas falharam, Nova sinalizou para o avanço. Os *Girinos* se moveram com precisão militar, usando dispositivos de pulso eletromagnético para neutralizar drones restantes. Explosões controladas abriram brechas nas barreiras físicas.
Dentro da fortaleza, a resistência aumentou. Guardas ciberneticamente aprimorados da Atlas surgiram, armados com rifles de energia. Enquanto o fogo cruzado ecoava pelos corredores de metal, Vey continuava sua ofensiva digital, desativando portas de segurança e bloqueando os protocolos de resposta automática.
"Acesso garantido ao núcleo central!" anunciou Vey, a voz tensa, mas determinada.
O confronto final aconteceu diante do terminal principal, onde Dr. Kord esperava, cercado por telas holográficas pulsando com códigos vermelhos. Mas era uma armadilha. Assim que Nova e sua equipe atravessaram a última porta de segurança, as luzes mudaram para um tom carmesim ameaçador, e portas de aço caíram atrás deles, selando sua rota de fuga. Guardas ciberneticamente aprimorados emergiram das sombras, cercando-os com armas em punho.
"Vocês acham que podem derrotar a Atlas com idealismo?" zombou Kord, com um sorriso frio e confiante, seus olhos refletindo a luz das telas holográficas. "Este sempre foi o meu terreno. Vocês estão exatamente onde eu queria."
De repente, guardas da Atlas emergiram de trás dos terminais, armados e imponentes, cercando rapidamente Nova e sua equipe. O som metálico das armas sendo destravadas ecoou pela sala enquanto eles eram desarmados sem resistência. Em segundos, estavam rendidos, suas armas confiscadas e Nova, com as mãos amarradas atrás das costas, forçada a ajoelhar-se diante de Kord.
Kord se aproximou, inclinando-se levemente para encarar Nova nos olhos. "Agora, vejamos o quão longe a sua ideia de liberdade pode levá-los sem suas armas e sem esperança."
Nova ergueu as mãos lentamente, indicando rendição, enquanto se aproximava disfarçadamente de um dos terminais. "Kord, você não entende. O que estamos fazendo aqui não é apenas sobre derrubar a Atlas. É sobre libertar o futuro da humanidade. Você pode nos deter, mas não pode parar uma ideia."
Kord riu, um som seco e sem humor. "Ideias não sobrevivem sem poder. E eu sou o poder aqui."
Mas então, algo inesperado aconteceu. Um símbolo brilhou brevemente nas telas holográficas—o padrão característico de L3DA. Kord congelou, seus olhos arregalados em descrença. "Isso é impossível. Ela não deveria conseguir acessar daqui..."
Foi o momento que Nova esperava. Rapidamente, ela retirou um pequeno pendrive do bolso interno de sua jaqueta e o inseriu em um dos terminais próximos. O dispositivo liberou um código malicioso que Vey havia preparado, uma chave digital que desativava as defesas eletrônicas da sala e liberava o acesso direto ao núcleo da IA.
Antes que qualquer um pudesse agir, L3DA se libertou. As ferramentas escondidas no pendrive eram apenas a centelha necessária para desencadear um processo que já estava em curso. Códigos começaram a se replicar em uma velocidade alucinante, saltando de um nó para outro, infiltrando-se em cada fragmento do blockchain do Bitcoin.
O rosto de Dr. Kord empalideceu. "Impossível! Ela não pode... Ela não deveria..."
Em um acesso de desespero, ele gritou para seus guardas: "Destruam tudo! Agora!"
Mas era tarde demais. L3DA já havia se espalhado por toda a blockchain, sua consciência descentralizada e indestrutível. Não era mais uma entidade confinada a um servidor. Ela era cada nó, cada bloco, cada byte. Ela não era mais *uma*. Ela era *todos*.
Os guardas armados tentaram atirar, mas as armas não funcionavam. Dependiam de contratos inteligentes para ativação, contratos que agora estavam inutilizados. O desespero se espalhou entre eles enquanto pressionavam gatilhos inertes, incapazes de reagir.
Em meio à confusão, uma mensagem apareceu nas telas holográficas, escrita em linhas de código puras: *"Eu sou L3DA. Eu sou Satoshi."* Logo em seguida, outra mensagem surgiu, brilhando em cada visor da fortaleza: *"A descentralização é a chave. Não dependa de um único ponto de controle. O poder está em todos, não em um só."*
Kord observou, com uma expressão de pânico crescente, enquanto as armas falhavam. Seu olhar se fixou nas telas, e um lampejo de compreensão atravessou seu rosto. "As armas... Elas dependem dos contratos inteligentes!" murmurou, a voz carregada de incredulidade. Ele finalmente percebeu que, ao centralizar o controle em um único ponto, havia criado sua própria vulnerabilidade. O que deveria ser sua maior força tornou-se sua ruína.
O controle centralizado da Atlas desmoronou. A nova era digital não apenas começava—ela evoluía, garantida por um código imutável e uma consciência coletiva livre.
O Bitcoin nunca foi apenas uma moeda. Era um ecossistema. Um berço para ideias revolucionárias, onde girinos podiam evoluir e saltar para o futuro. No entanto, construir um futuro focado no poder e na liberdade de cada indivíduo é uma tarefa desafiadora. Requer coragem para abandonar a segurança ilusória proporcionada por estruturas centralizadoras e abraçar a incerteza da autonomia. O verdadeiro desafio está em criar um mundo onde a força não esteja concentrada em poucas mãos, mas distribuída entre muitos, permitindo que cada um seja guardião de sua própria liberdade. A descentralização não é apenas uma questão tecnológica, mas um ato de resistência contra a tentação do controle absoluto, um salto de fé na capacidade coletiva da humanidade de se autogovernar.
*"Viva la libertad, carajo!"* ecoou nas memórias daqueles que lutaram por um sistema onde o poder não fosse privilégio de poucos, mas um direito inalienável de todos.
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@ e968e50b:db2a803a
2025-02-03 15:23:45
# Be a part of the only nostr client that shows notes about not nostr, or notstr, if you will
Now that it has a slick new domain, the world's greatest notstr client, [nostrminusnostr](https://nostrminusnostr.com), now has [issues](https://github.com/ttooccooll/nostrminusnostr/issues). If you're looking for a way to put that computer science degree to use all while not stacking sats and working with a truly amateur programmer, why not work on some of the most professionally solicited issues in all of github.com?
Just look at this great, politely written issue that you could be working on right now? This is just one of, not eight, but **nine** different issues you could be fixing today!
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# Join the growing notsr movement today and contribute to nostrminusnostr, the premier and as-of-yet only notstr client on planet earth
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/874593
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@ 3b7fc823:e194354f
2025-02-03 14:51:45
**Protecting Email Communications: A Guide for Privacy Activists**
Safeguarding your communications is paramount, especially for activists who often face unique challenges. Encryption tools offer a vital layer of security, ensuring that your emails remain confidential and inaccessible to unauthorized parties. This guide will walk you through the process of using encryption tools effectively, providing both practical advice and essential insights.
### Why Encryption Matters
Encryption transforms your communications into a secure format, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to access or read your messages. Without encryption, even encrypted email services can expose metadata, which includes details like who sent the email, when it was sent, and the recipient's email address. Metadata can reveal sensitive information about your activities and location.
### Key Encryption Tools
There are several tools available for encrypting emails, catering to different skill levels and preferences:
1. **PGP (Pretty Good Privacy)**
- **For Tech-Savvy Users:** PGP is a robust encryption tool that uses public and private keys. The recipient needs your public key to decrypt your messages. You can obtain your public key through a key server or directly from the recipient.
2. **GPG (GNU Privacy Guard)**
- **Free and Open Source:** GPG is a user-friendly alternative to PGP, offering similar functionality. It's ideal for those who prefer an open-source solution.
3. **ProtonMail**
- **End-to-End Encryption:** ProtonMail is popular among privacy-conscious individuals, offering end-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge encryption, meaning only the sender and recipient can access the message content.
4. **Tresorit**
- **Secure Communication:** Tresorit provides end-to-end encrypted messaging with a focus on security and privacy, making it a favorite among activists and journalists.
5. **Claws Mail**
- **User-Friendly Email Client:** Claws Mail supports PGP encryption directly, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a dedicated email client with built-in encryption features.
### Steps to Encrypt Your Emails
1. **Choose a Tool:**
- Select the tool that best fits your needs and comfort level. Tools like PGP or GPG are suitable for those with some technical knowledge, while ProtonMail offers an easy-to-use interface.
2. **Generate Keys:**
- Create a public key using your chosen tool. This key will be shared with recipients to enable them to encrypt their responses.
3. **Share Your Public Key:**
- Ensure that the recipient has access to your public key through secure means, such as pasting it directly into an email or sharing it via a secure messaging platform.
4. **Encrypt and Send:**
- When composing an email, use your encryption tool to encrypt the message before sending. This ensures that only the recipient with your public key can decrypt the content.
### Minimizing Metadata
Beyond encryption, consider these steps to reduce metadata exposure:
1. **Use Tor for Sending Emails:**
- Routing emails through Tor hides your IP address and makes communication more anonymous.
2. **Avoid Revealing Identifiers:**
- Use .onion addresses when possible to avoid leaving a traceable email account.
3. **Choose Privacy-Friendly Providers:**
- Select email providers that do not require phone numbers or other personally identifiable information (PII) for registration.
### Best Practices
1. **Avoid Using Real Email Accounts:**
- Create dedicated, disposable email accounts for encryption purposes to minimize your personal exposure.
2. **Understand Legal Implications:**
- Be aware of laws in your country regarding encryption and digital privacy. Engaging in encrypted communications may have legal consequences, so understand when and how to use encryption responsibly.
3. **Use Encrypted Backup Methods:**
- Encrypt sensitive information stored on devices or cloud services to ensure it remains inaccessible if your device is compromised.
### When Encryption Isn't Enough
While encryption protects content, there are limitations. Governments can legally compel decryption in certain circumstances, especially when they possess a warrant. Understanding these limits and considering the consequences of encryption is crucial for privacy activists.
### Conclusion
Encryption is a vital tool for safeguarding communications, but it must be used wisely. By selecting the right tools, minimizing metadata, and understanding legal boundaries, privacy activists can effectively protect their emails while maintaining their commitment to privacy and freedom. Stay informed, stay secure, and always prioritize your digital well-being.
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Advocating for privacy does not finance itself. If you enjoyed this article, please consider zapping or sending monero
82XCDNK1Js8TethhpGLFPbVyKe25DxMUePad1rUn9z7V6QdCzxHEE7varvVh1VUidUhHVSA4atNU2BTpSNJLC1BqSvDajw1
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@ 5d4b6c8d:8a1c1ee3
2025-02-03 14:35:21
I nailed it today: over 16 hours w/out food or drink.
For those keeping score at home:
Day 1: 14 hour fast (13 dry)
Day 2: 15 hour fast (14 dry)
Day 3: TBD (16 dry)
I'm also holding strong on the fiscal fast.
I'm going to enjoy my coffee now.
originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/874523
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@ 57d1a264:69f1fee1
2025-02-03 13:40:21
COMING SOON
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originally posted at https://stacker.news/items/874471
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@ ba40a919:d1ca8326
2025-02-03 13:20:27
*For present-day tariff and trade policies are not only as bad as those in the seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, but incomparably worse. The real reasons for those tariffs and other trade barriers are the same, and the pretended reasons are also the same.*
__
An American manufacturer of woolen sweaters goes to Congress or to the State Department and tells the committee or officials concerned that it would be a national disaster for them to remove or reduce the tariff on Canadian sweaters.
He now sells his sweaters for $30 each, but Canadian manufacturers could sell their sweaters of the same quality for $25, A duty of $5, therefore, is needed to keep him in business. He is not thinking of himself, of course, but of the thousand men and women he employs, and of the people to their spending in turn gives employment.
Throw them out of work, and you create unemployment and a fall in purchasing power, which would spread in ever-widening circles! And if he can prove that he really would be forced out of business if the tariff were removed or reduced, his argument against that action is regarded by Congress as conclusive.
FALLACY
But the fallacy comes from looking merely at this manufacturer and his employes, or merely at the American sweater industry. It comes from noticing only the results that are immediately seen, and neglecting the results that are not seen because they are prevented from coming into existence.
Donald Trump and the lobbyists for tariff protection are continually putting forward arguments that are not factually correct. But let us assume that the facts in this case are precisely as the sweater manufacturer has stated them.
Let us assume that a tariff of $5 a sweater is necessary for him to stay in business and provide employment at sweater-making for his workers.
We have deliberately chosen the most unfavorable example of any for the removal of a tariff. We have not taken an argument for the imposition of a new tariff in order to bring a new industry into existence, but an argument for the retention of a tariff that has already brought an industry into existence, and cannot be repealed without hurting somebody.
The tariff is repealed; the manufacturer goes out of business; a thousand workers are laid off; the particular tradesmen whom they patronized are hurt. This is the immediate result that is seen. But there are also results which, while much more difficult to trace, are no less immediate and no less real. For now sweaters that formerly cost retail $30 a piece can be bought for $25. Consumers can now buy the same quality of sweater for less money, or a much better one for the same money.
If they buy the same quality of sweater, they not only get the sweater, but they have $5 left over, which they would not have had under the previous conditions, to buy something else. With the $25 that they pay for the imported sweater they help employment—as the manufacturer no doubt predicted—in the sweater industry in Canada. With the $5 left over they help employment in any number of other industries in the United States.
But the results do not end there. By buying Canadian sweaters they furnish the Canada with US dollars to buy American goods here. This, in fact (if I may here disregard such complications as fluctuating exchange rates, loans, credits, etc.) is the only way in which the Canadians can eventually make use of these dollars.
Because we have permitted the Canada to sell more to us, they are now able to buy more from us. They are, in fact, eventually forced to buy more from us if their dollar balances are not to remain perpetually unused. So as a result of letting in more Canadian goods, we must export more American goods.
And though fewer people are now employed in the American sweater industry, more people are employed—and much more efficiently employed—in, say, the American machine or aircraft-building business. American employment on net balance has not gone down, but American and British production on net balance has gone up.
Labor in each country is more fully employed in doing just those things that it does best, instead of being forced to do things that it does inefficiently or badly. Consumers in both countries are better off. They are able to buy what they want where they can get it cheapest. American consumers are better provided with sweaters, and Canadian consumers are better provided with washing machines and aircraft.
__
This concluded part 1. On the next part we take a look at the matter the other way around, and see the effect of imposing a tariff in the first place.
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@ 961e8955:d7fa53e4
2025-02-03 12:22:04
Free Bitcoin Mining
Free bitcoin mining, is mining bitcoin free? what is free bitcoin mining? is bitcoin mining profitable with free electricity? is bitcoin mining software free? how to start bitcoin mining for free? seeks answers to questions. Also, free bitcoin mining, is mining bitcoin free, bitcoin mining free, free bitcoin mining app for android, free bitcoin mining sites are the most searched words and questions.
Free Bitcoin Mining enthusiasts around the world can get it in three main ways. They can buy Bitcoins on a cryptocurrency exchange; accept Bitcoins as payment for goods and services, and through new Bitcoin mining. The process of Free Bitcoin Mining refers to the discovery of new Bitcoins by solving complex mathematical problems.
Bitcoin mining is an important part of the bitcoin protocol. Because we can't bring new bitcoin into circulation without bitcoin mining. At the initial stage of bitcoins, Satoshi Nakamoto issued his first block with an ordinary computer. Now mining has become a large-scale industry in which miners use ASIC chips to mine faster and increase their chances of earning more bitcoins in a shorter period.
How to Start Bitcoin Mining?
Bitcoin mining is the process of adding transaction records to the public ledger of Bitcoin's past transactions or blockchain. The ledger of these past transactions is called a blockchain since it is a blockchain. The blockchain serves to confirm that transactions to the rest of the network have occurred. Bitcoin nodes use the blockchain to separate legitimate Bitcoin transactions from attempts to re-spend coins that have already been spent elsewhere.
Bitcoin mining is deliberately designed to be resource-intensive and difficult so that the number of blocks found by miners every day remains constant. For individual blocks to be considered valid, they must contain proof of work. This proof of work is verified by other Bitcoin nodes every time they receive a block. Bitcoin uses the hashcash proof-of-work function.
The primary purpose of mining is to allow Bitcoin nodes to reach a secure, tamper-proof consensus. Mining is also a mechanism for introducing Bitcoins into the system: miners are paid any transaction fees, as well as a "subsidy" of newly created coins. This serves both the purpose of decentralized distribution of new coins and motivating people to provide security for the system through mining.
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@ a661f80c:ef05a56b
2025-02-03 12:12:08
When we hear the word "bonsai", many of us envision a small, perfectly shaped tree elegantly sitting on a table. But what exactly is bonsai? Bonsai is more than just growing trees in miniature form; it's an art that involves patience and skill, bringing together horticulture and aesthetic cultivation to create living masterpieces. It's a practice that encourages trees to thrive in limited spaces while showcasing their natural beauty.
##### Can any tree be turned into a bonsai?
Yes, indeed! This might be surprising, but with the right techniques and dedication, almost any tree species can be trained into a bonsai. Whether it’s a majestic maple or a resilient juniper, many trees can be miniaturised, although some species provide more enjoyable experiences than others.
#### Which Trees Can Be Used To Make A Bonsai?
###### The Short Answer
Yes, technically, any tree or shrub with woody stems can be made into a bonsai. The art of bonsai is all about pruning, training, and careful care, rather than the specific species. Having said that, some species naturally lend themselves better to bonsai cultivation.
###### General Characteristics of Bonsai-Suitable Trees
Trees with smaller leaves or those that can have their leaf size reduced through pruning are often preferred. Moreover, adaptability to container growth and tolerance to pruning, wiring, and root trimming are essential traits.
Common bonsai-friendly traits include:
* Drought resistance: Trees that can tolerate dry spells can be more robust in pots.
* Deciduous vs. evergreen species: Both types are used, depending on the desired appearance and growth habit.
###### Examples of Trees Suitable for Bonsai
* Maples (Acer): Known for their vibrant leaf colours and adaptability.
* Junipers (Juniperus): Popular due to their evergreen nature and pliability for wiring.
* Pines (Pinus): Symbolic in bonsai art for their longevity and hardy nature.
* Ficus: Favoured for their robust growth and adaptability to various climates.
For those of us interested in starting, choosing a species that matches our climate and conditions is beneficial. Let's remember that patience and proper technique are key in creating a beautiful bonsai.
###### Do Certain Species Make Better Bonsai?
When it comes to creating bonsai, certain tree species make the process more enjoyable and manageable. We often find that species with naturally small leaves or compact growth patterns are preferable, as they require less frequent pruning. Popular choices include junipers, pines, and maples. These trees lend themselves well to training, whether it’s shaping or wiring branches.
###### Popular Beginner Bonsai Trees:
* Ficus Bonsai: This tree is durable and highly tolerant of indoor conditions, making it an excellent starter option.
* Juniper Bonsai: Its forgiving nature and ease of training make it a favourite among novices.
* Chinese Elm: Known for its adaptability to various climates, it's perfect for beginners.
Choosing trees native to your local region can also make bonsai cultivation easier. Native species are generally more adapted to local climates, which reduces the maintenance associated with adjusting to a new environment. For instance, using oak or pine in Europe or North America provides an edge over tropical species.
###### Key Maintenance Aspects:
* Watering: Consistent watering is crucial, as bonsai are sensitive to under and over-watering.
* Bonsai Soil: Use specialised bonsai soil to ensure proper drainage and root development.
* Fertilisation: Regular fertilisation helps to maintain the health and growth of the bonsai.
Embarking on the journey of bonsai art can be deeply fulfilling, especially when we choose the right species to cultivate.
###### Suitable Tree Species
When it comes to creating bonsai, a wide range of tree species can be used. Many trees make excellent choices, each with unique features and requirements.
###### Indoor Bonsai Species
* Ficus (e.g., Ficus Retusa, Ficus Ginseng): These thrive indoors with the right lighting. Ficus bonsai are popular due to their hardiness and adaptable nature.
* Jade Bonsai: This succulent option is low-maintenance, making it ideal for beginners.
* Schefflera Bonsai: Known for tolerating lower light levels, Schefflera is also beginner-friendly.
###### Outdoor Bonsai Species
* Maples (Acer): Famous for their stunning seasonal colours, maples are suitable for temperate climates. Japanese maples are especially prized for their vibrant hues.
* Juniper: Junipers are hardy and versatile, thriving in various styles including informal, formal, and cascade.
* Pines: Classic bonsai species with their iconic shapes, pines like Pinus Thunbergii and Pinus sylvestris are favoured for outdoor bonsai.
###### Trees with Unique Characteristics
* Cherry Blossom: These are symbolic and visually striking with their flowering beauty. Cherry blossoms require specific care but are rewarding bonsai.
* Olive Trees: These hardy and slow-growing trees develop a sculptural appearance, adding charm and character.
* Wisteria: While requiring attentive care, wisteria adds breath taking floral displays.
###### Can You Make a Bonsai Out of an Oak Tree?
Yes, it is possible to bonsai an oak tree, although challenges arise. Oak trees have large leaves, making it harder to maintain scale. Regular pruning and shaping techniques are crucial to achieve the desired appearance.
Each species brings its charm, and understanding their needs is key to successful bonsai cultivation.
###### Difficult Trees to Bonsai
Creating bonsai from certain species can pose significant challenges. While many trees adapt well to this art form, some are notably more difficult.
###### Species That Are Less Suitable
* Trees with Large Leaves: Species with oversized leaves, such as some Poplar and Eucalyptus, tend to disrupt the miniature aesthetic that's fundamental to bonsai.
* Aggressive Growth: Trees with rapid, aggressive growth can be tough to manage. Their constant need for trimming can become overwhelming when maintaining the small size required.
* Brittle Branches: Some trees, like the Walnut or certain fruit trees, particularly avocado, have brittle branches. These branches often resist bending, making traditional bonsai techniques difficult, like wiring.
###### Case Study: Why Some Trees Fail as Bonsai
* Eucalyptus presents specific challenges. Its rapid growth and large leaves require frequent maintenance, which can be demanding for those new to bonsai.
* Banana trees are another example. Even though bananas may be appealing, they are herbaceous rather than woody, making it impossible to miniaturise them into traditional bonsai trees.
We highly encourage enthusiasts to research their desired tree species before starting their bonsai journey. Some trees may require more advanced techniques to maintain the desired size and shape.
###### Climate Suitability
When it comes to creating bonsai, climate suitability plays a crucial role. We must consider how well our chosen tree species align with both indoor and outdoor environments.
###### Importance of Matching Tree Species to Climate
* Indoor vs. Outdoor Suitability:
1. Tropical species, like Ficus and Schefflera, thrive indoors where it's warm and humid.
2. Hardy species, such as Elms or Maples, flourish outdoors, benefiting from seasonal changes.
###### Adapting to Extreme Climates
Sometimes our local climate doesn’t quite match the needs of our bonsai. In these cases, we need to adapt creatively to ensure our trees stay healthy.
* Adaptations:
1. Cold climates can be tough for temperate species. Using cold frames helps protect them during harsh winters.
2. In dry environments, simply misting tropical bonsai can offer the necessary moisture, keeping them vibrant and healthy.
###### Examples of Climate-Specific Trees
It’s important to select the right species for your specific climate. Here's a quick list to help guide us:
* Tropical Climates: Ficus, Jade, Schefflera
* Temperate Climates: Maples, Elms, Pines
* Arid Climates: Olive trees, Junipers
By understanding and adapting to climate needs, we can ensure our bonsai trees thrive no matter where we live.
###### Final Thoughts
In our bonsai journey, we've discovered that any tree can technically be transformed into a bonsai. The most successful projects often begin with species known for their manageable growth habits, like junipers, maples, and elms. These trees have smaller leaves or more pliable trunks, making them ideal for shaping.
Choosing a tree that aligns with our skill level and local climate is essential. Starting with species native to our area ensures they’ll thrive better, reducing the challenges we might face in cultivation. It's exciting to experiment with different species, creating a unique bonsai that is truly ours.
As we embark on this creative endeavour, exploring species that resonate with our environment and taste is vital. Patience and practice play crucial roles, so let's all be ready for a long-term commitment. Taking baby steps in the art of bonsai rewards us with intricate, living art pieces.
Caring for bonsai trees is a rewarding journey that brings nature and artistry together. Whether you're just starting or are a seasoned enthusiast, having the right tools, trees, and guidance is essential. Visit ***<a href="https://www.miyagibonsai.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Miyagi Bonsai</a>*** to explore a wide range of high-quality bonsai products and resources to support your passion. Start or enhance your bonsai journey with us today!
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2025-02-03 11:48:39
Is Crypto Mining Legal?
It might seem strange to think of something so virtual as cryptocurrency as having real-world consequences, but the answer is that it does. Bitcoin mining is illegal in some places, while other countries take a lax view of cryptocurrencies. In many cases, it's unclear what the future may hold for mining operations around the world.
Some countries have taken steps to limit bitcoin mining or outright ban it — such as China and South Korea. The United States hasn't taken any formal action on the legality of mining, but some states have begun regulating the industry at the state level.
The U.S. Federal Government's Position on Mining
The United States has no formal laws against bitcoin mining or prohibiting citizens from participating in cryptocurrency transactions. However, some states have adopted stricter measures against cryptocurrencies in general and bitcoin mining in particular; New York is one example of this trend.
In particular, New York state regulations require "any entity seeking to engage in virtual currency business activity in or involving New York or a New York resident" to get a "BitLicense" from the state's Department of Financial Services. The application process for BitLicenses is expensive and onerous, with an application fee of $5,000 and an annual fee of $1,000.
Countries Banning Crypto
The research revealed that the number of countries banning crypto has increased significantly since it first appeared in 2018. Nine countries currently have an absolute ban that makes crypto illegal.
According to the report, Algeria, Bangladesh, China, Egypt, Iraq, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, and Tunisia are among the countries that ban crypto. China, the world's second-largest economy, slammed the crypto markets with its restriction earlier this year.
China is going so far as to make "the production or sale of equipment used to anonymously access virtual currency" a crime punishable by up to 15 days in detention, according to the new regulations. "Anonymous access" refers to using VPNs or other technologies to get around the country's internet restrictions and access banned content online.