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vintage-tech · 1 year ago

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useful information: How to get a USB Blu-Ray player to work on your computer

Not a post about vintage technology, just an explanation of what you think might be simple to do but isn't: There are Blu-Ray players that plug into your computer by USB, and you discover that just plugging it in doesn't make it work* in the same manner that CD-RWs or DVD-RWs are automatically recognised and function. You will see "BR Drive" in My Computer and the name of whatever movie you have inserted, but that's as far as you're able to go.

*There is software you can buy to make a Blu-Ray (internal or external) function, sure, and if an internal came with your computer it's likely already installed -- but if you're like me you don't have that software, you're cheap and won't pay for software, and you want to use what you have installed already or find free solutions.

Looking in the Blu-Ray drive's package, there's not a lot of info about what you're supposed to do. The above no-name Blu-Ray player cost $40 from a popular website; name-brand ones can set you back $120 or so. Looking around online for those instructions, I never saw the whole set of directions in one place, I had to cobble them together from 2 or 3 sites. And so here I share that list. To keep out of trouble, I'm not linking any files -- Google will help you.

Get VLC, the free video player available for pretty much any operating system. Thing is, it doesn't come with the internals to make it work with Blu-Ray even if when you go to the Play Media menu there is a radio button for selecting Blu-Ray.

Get MakeMKV, a decoder for reading Blu-Ray disks. This had been totally free during the beta testing period but it's come out and has a month or two trial period you can work in.

Get Java if you don't already have it. Reason for this is, the menu systems on Blu-Ray disks uses this... technically it's not required, however it does mean you don't have options such as special features, language and sound changes, or scene selection if you don't have Java installed; insert a disk, it can only play the movie.

Get the file libaacs.dll online so you have AACS decoding. I am told it hasn't been updated in awhile so there may be disks produced after 2013 that won't work right, but you won't know until you try.

There's a set of keys you will also want to have so that the player knows how to work with specific disks, and so do a search online for the "FindVUK Online Database". There will be a regularly-updated keydb.cfg archive file on that page to pick up.

Got those three programs installed and the other two files obtained? Okay, here are your instructions for assembly...

In VLC: go to Tools, Prefs, click "show all"… under the Input/Codecs heading is Access Modules then Blu-Ray: Select your region, A through C. You can change this if you need to for foreign disks. Next related action: go to My Computer and C:, click into Program Files and VLC, and this is where you copy the libaacs.dll file to.

In MakeMKV: click View, then Preferences, and under Integration - add VLC.

Confirm that Java is set up to work with VLC by going to the computer's Control Panel, going to System Properties, and into Environment Variables. Click System Variables, and click New to create this key if it doesn't already exist: … Name: Java … Value: [the location of the Java 'jre#.##' folder... use Browse to find it in C:\Program Files\Java]

Let's go back into My Computer and C:, this time go to Program Data, and then do a right-click in the window and select New and Folder. Rename this folder "aacs" (without the quotes), and then you click into it and copy the keydb.cfg file here.

REBOOT.

And now you should be able to recognise Blu-Ray disks in your player and play them. Three troubleshooting notes to offer in VLC:

"Disk corrupt" -- this means MakeMKV has not decoded and parsed the disk yet, or that you don't have the libaacs.dll in place so that it can decode the disk. ...After checking the VLC folder for the DLL to make sure, launch MakeMKV, then go to File, Play Disk, and select the Blu-Ray drive. Now it will grind a bit and figure out the disk's contents.

A note appears when a movie starts saying there will be no menus, but the movie plays fine -- Java isn't running. ...Invoke Java by going to the Java Settings in Start: Programs. You don't have to change anything here, so Exit, then eject the disk and put it back in to see if the movie's menu now appears.

Buffering between chapters, making the movie pause for a few seconds? There is a setting for this but I need to find that info page again for where that is. (If you find it, tell me where it is!)

I don't claim to know a lot but if you have any questions I might have some answers or suggestions. So far I've watched "Office Space" and Disney's "Coco" without any issues beside occasional buffering.

#technology #not vintage #blu ray #how to #learning as we go

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northwindow · 1 year ago

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love your blog so much! and im wondering how you archive/document your day-to-day life and the information that you take in — whatever form: books, lyrics, trees, etc etc — ? im struggling so much w forgettttttting

i love this question! i’ve always longed to have a beautiful and consistent journal, but it’s something i struggle with maintaining organically so i’ve tried some different structures over the past few years. long-winded answer under the cut 💗

back in 2021, i was making a monthly journal on google slides which i really liked because it's so natural to integrate images. i just made a month of it public here as an example of what it was like.

from 2022 - now, i've been doing a new concept where on the last day of every season i write long, list-y answers to these prompts:

art that has been resonating with me (includes music, books, movies, visual art, anything really). i'll usually write a few words about it... "Decision to Leave dir. Park Chan-Wook—the eye shot! the eye shot with the ants crawling on it" or "'Train Ride' by Ruth Stone: 'Release, release; / between cold death and a fever, / send what you will, I will listen. / All things come to an end. / No, they go on forever.'" or "Chunky misshapen pearls and other organic, shiny shapes"

my favorite memories from the season... examples from past lists include "Swimming hole with Zoë where I stuck a twig in my hair and we waded around on our hands like crocodiles" and "Walks in my snowsuit at night, one in particular where the Gemenids meteor shower was just starting"

a checkup on 5 of my current projects/goals. currently these are 1. learn to lift weights, 2. write 50 "identical" poems, 3. write a new syllabus, 4. practice mindful spending, 5. improve at woodworking.

a checkup on 5 of my core values. currently these are 1. adventure, 2. connection, 3. play, 4. sensuality, 5. sustainability.

reevaluating projects and values to focus on next

since you mentioned wanting to remember things-- when i'm putting this together i draw extensively from my tumblr archive/likes, calendar, photos app, recent playlists, and letterboxd and storygraph accounts. curating this kind of ephemeral data into a more permanent and thoughtful record is really satisfying to me. i privately call this method "wrapped" a la spotify... like i'll have a big entry for "fall 2022 wrapped" and then "winter 2023 wrapped" and so on. i do all this on the app notion and file the seasons on one big page so it's easy to click into one and remember what i was doing and thinking about. (i also converted my dream journal to a notion database. i've logged about 300 dreams in here and love that i can tag by character/feature.)

over the years i've also kept a more classic diary via text documents that's less structured, just spitting out whatever's on my mind with the date at the top. i tend to do this frequently for a while, then ebb off, then restart another doc, rinse and repeat. i also have a few physical notebooks (including these two) but the digital stuff is way more extensive as i prefer to write on the computer.

if i were going to recommend any of this, i would say the visual format of the slides journal was really compelling because i liked the aesthetic freedom but i also love the "wrapped" lists because they seem to cut to the core of an era's texture. in the future i'd like to try to integrate these aspects together! 📓

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govindhtech · 3 months ago

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Pegasus 1.2: High-Performance Video Language Model

Pegasus 1.2 revolutionises long-form video AI with high accuracy and low latency. Scalable video querying is supported by this commercial tool.

TwelveLabs and Amazon Web Services (AWS) announced that Amazon Bedrock will soon provide Marengo and Pegasus, TwelveLabs' cutting-edge multimodal foundation models. Amazon Bedrock, a managed service, lets developers access top AI models from leading organisations via a single API. With seamless access to TwelveLabs' comprehensive video comprehension capabilities, developers and companies can revolutionise how they search for, assess, and derive insights from video content using AWS's security, privacy, and performance. TwelveLabs models were initially offered by AWS.

Introducing Pegasus 1.2

Unlike many academic contexts, real-world video applications face two challenges:

Real-world videos might be seconds or hours lengthy.

Proper temporal understanding is needed.

TwelveLabs is announcing Pegasus 1.2, a substantial industry-grade video language model upgrade, to meet commercial demands. Pegasus 1.2 interprets long films at cutting-edge levels. With low latency, low cost, and best-in-class accuracy, model can handle hour-long videos. Their embedded storage ingeniously caches movies, making it faster and cheaper to query the same film repeatedly.

Pegasus 1.2 is a cutting-edge technology that delivers corporate value through its intelligent, focused system architecture and excels in production-grade video processing pipelines.

Superior video language model for extended videos

Business requires handling long films, yet processing time and time-to-value are important concerns. As input films increase longer, a standard video processing/inference system cannot handle orders of magnitude more frames, making it unsuitable for general adoption and commercial use. A commercial system must also answer input prompts and enquiries accurately across larger time periods.

Latency

To evaluate Pegasus 1.2's speed, it compares time-to-first-token (TTFT) for 3–60-minute videos utilising frontier model APIs GPT-4o and Gemini 1.5 Pro. Pegasus 1.2 consistently displays time-to-first-token latency for films up to 15 minutes and responds faster to lengthier material because to its video-focused model design and optimised inference engine.

Performance

Pegasus 1.2 is compared to frontier model APIs using VideoMME-Long, a subset of Video-MME that contains films longer than 30 minutes. Pegasus 1.2 excels above all flagship APIs, displaying cutting-edge performance.

Pricing

Cost Pegasus 1.2 provides best-in-class commercial video processing at low cost. TwelveLabs focusses on long videos and accurate temporal information rather than everything. Its highly optimised system performs well at a competitive price with a focused approach.

Better still, system can generate many video-to-text without costing much. Pegasus 1.2 produces rich video embeddings from indexed movies and saves them in the database for future API queries, allowing clients to build continually at little cost. Google Gemini 1.5 Pro's cache cost is $4.5 per hour of storage, or 1 million tokens, which is around the token count for an hour of video. However, integrated storage costs $0.09 per video hour per month, x36,000 less. Concept benefits customers with large video archives that need to understand everything cheaply.

Model Overview & Limitations

Architecture

Pegasus 1.2's encoder-decoder architecture for video understanding includes a video encoder, tokeniser, and big language model. Though efficient, its design allows for full textual and visual data analysis.

These pieces provide a cohesive system that can understand long-term contextual information and fine-grained specifics. It architecture illustrates that tiny models may interpret video by making careful design decisions and solving fundamental multimodal processing difficulties creatively.

Restrictions

Safety and bias

Pegasus 1.2 contains safety protections, but like any AI model, it might produce objectionable or hazardous material without enough oversight and control. Video foundation model safety and ethics are being studied. It will provide a complete assessment and ethics report after more testing and input.

Hallucinations

Occasionally, Pegasus 1.2 may produce incorrect findings. Despite advances since Pegasus 1.1 to reduce hallucinations, users should be aware of this constraint, especially for precise and factual tasks.

#technology #technews #govindhtech #news #technologynews #AI #artificial intelligence #Pegasus 1.2 #TwelveLabs #Amazon Bedrock #Gemini 1.5 Pro #multimodal #API

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lunarsilkscreen · 1 year ago

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Long-Term Strategy for Game Series Support

We're entering an era of Long-Term support for Video Games Series. (THAT'S A LIE, WEVE BEEN THERE FOR A MINUTE NOW.)

As Developers and Publishers start shutting down online services for older games (and in some cases disabling the game entirely)

Which is necessary, considering that servers take money to continue running. And older game players simply aren't bringing in revenue to keep the lights on. (Because they're not bringing in any money)

The question that AAA developers should be asking; "How do we integrate our games backend into a shared eco-system in order to reduce costs for each individual game, and increase adoption of newer services/games for our players?"

This is a question that must be asked because Developers and Publishers already know how difficult it is to retain profits while competing with the Resale and Third-Party markets like GameStop.

Many developers have started creating "Always On" services which require the game to be connected to the internet in order to play offline portions. (To verify authenticity that the game was purchased from an official source and not pirated.)

After-all it's hard to continue paying for online services if pirates are using them.

Still, services like Hearthstone provide a free service, free product, and still manage to turn profit. Part of this is because of the competitive environment and sponsored tournaments.

By offering a prize, plenty of players can be convinced to play, just in case they feel like going pro next year.

But they probably won't. Despite that; the game is incredibly fun to play. Except when several players in a row have the exact combo that enables them to keep tempo, and so you gotta grin and bear it till it becomes fun again.

Or buy more cards.

Still, how do you create an environment for the casual players of casual games. Like Animal Crossing, or Pokemon. Since most Pokemon players aren't competitive.

After a half-a-decade, the business model dictates that you sell a new game to replace the old one.

Part of the problem here is that each new game has a lot of the same content as the old game, and thus; in order to switch you need throw away your old save file and start from scratch.

Many players that would do that just because they can would have done so already. And so older players may end up giving up both the old and new, simply because it's easier to do so.

Despite the newest games having a lot of the same content, a lot of old content is lost. Like the Story. What would traditionally be called the "Movie" or "Novel" portion. Depending on if it was a cutscenes or several hundred lines of text.

And so in order to re-experience the old content; many players may instead choose to simply to pirate the old content, or read about it from online sources.

Part of the solution is to simply offer the old content to new players. And to try to convince older players into the new areas by allowing them to bring their old content and achievements with them.

This can be accomplished a few different ways. Crypto is one way to create a ledger tied to a players account so that they can share their content between platforms and games.

Nearly every platform, PlayStation, XBOX, and while Nintendo doesn't offer a platform specific variant, game often still include achievements.

And this system can be used to store certain content on a player basis to brought into newer or different games.

This would also enable cross-game items/content/achievements that players could bring with them from series to series.

Which would be a boom for cross-promotional purposes. And by creating an environment and a system that enables to store this in the same place(cloud). You could also control for DataBase specifications in order to reduce size and increase speeds for each individual game.

Now, I am pretty well Versed in Learning Content Distribution. SCORM(This is an acronym you don't need to know, and would only raise more questions if I explain it, so I'll stick to the surface here.) SCORM, TinCan, and xAPI (not to be confused with Twitter) are specifications created for the Learning Management Environment (Education, College, Government, and corporate training models) in order to do exactly what I'm talking about with as little or as much data bandwidth requirements, is relatively secure and includes cross-service achievement-like systems.

As well as content-distribution systems.

I would assume there's a way to integrate it with Crypto. It would replace the monkey WEBMs with something more substantial.

And this service or system would allow not only players to bring their accounts and achievements and items with them from game to game (or from game to social media) but games to communicate with each other.

Again, I'm thinking "Eco-system" here. Publishers would be able to do large-scale cross-promotional events with many games simultaneously. And enable platform-hoping between games with content from each individual event.

What this means is that you would also be able to provide a place for those old games to exist, even if they don't participate it the Events anymore. AND encourage players to try new and other games because they don't lose their original save files doing so.

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scrumptiousbeardturtle-blog1 · 10 months ago

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Comprehensive Guide to Video Encoding and Content Delivery

In today's digital age, video content has become an integral part of our daily lives, from streaming movies and TV shows to video conferencing and online tutorials. Behind the seamless delivery of these videos lies the complex world of video encoding. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify video encoding, covering fundamental concepts, adaptive bitrate streaming (ABS), content-aware encoding (CAE), and the role of XML-based Electronic Program Guides (EPGs) in the television industry.

1. Introduction to Video Encoding

Fundamental Concepts

Video encoding involves the conversion of raw video data into a digital format that can be efficiently transmitted, stored, and played back. Key concepts include:

Codecs: These are algorithms used to compress and decompress video data. Popular codecs include H.264, H.265 (HEVC), and VP9.

Bitrates: Bitrates refer to the amount of data processed per unit of time and are crucial for determining video quality and file size.

Container Formats: These formats encapsulate video, audio, and metadata into a single file, with examples including MP4, AVI, and MKV.

Importance of Video Encoding

Video encoding plays a vital role in content delivery and distribution, impacting factors such as streaming quality, bandwidth consumption, and storage requirements. Efficient video encoding ensures optimal viewing experiences across various devices and network conditions.

2. Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABS)

Principles of ABS

Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABS) dynamically adjusts video quality based on the viewer's network conditions, ensuring smooth playback and minimizing buffering. It achieves this by delivering video in multiple bitrates and resolutions, allowing seamless transitions between them.

Benefits of ABS

ABS offers several benefits, including improved user experience, reduced buffering, and efficient bandwidth utilization. Popular ABS technologies such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) and Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) are widely used for online video streaming and live broadcasts.

3. Content-Aware Encoding (CAE)

Concept of CAE

Content-Aware Encoding (CAE) optimizes video encoding based on the characteristics of the content itself. This approach focuses on maximizing visual quality while minimizing file sizes, leading to better quality-to-bitrate ratios and improved streaming efficiency.

Advantages of CAE

CAE techniques, such as scene-aware encoding and object-based encoding, offer advantages such as reduced file sizes, improved visual quality, and enhanced streaming performance. Content providers can leverage CAE to deliver high-quality videos while conserving bandwidth.

4. XML EPG for TV

Role of XML EPGs

XML-based Electronic Program Guides (EPGs) serve as comprehensive databases of TV programming information, including channel listings, show descriptions, and scheduling details. They enable viewers to access detailed program information and make informed viewing choices.

Benefits of XML EPGs

XML EPGs benefit both content providers and viewers by enhancing content discovery, supporting personalized recommendations, and enabling interactive TV experiences. They play a crucial role in modern television services, enriching the viewer's entertainment experience.

Video encoding and content delivery technologies continues to rise, shaping the way we consume and interact with video content.

Understanding the principles of video encoding, adaptive bitrate streaming, content-aware encoding, and xmltv schedule epg guide is essential for content creators, broadcasters, and streaming platforms.

By harnessing these technologies, the industry can deliver immersive, high-quality video experiences while adapting to diverse viewer preferences and network conditions.

Whether you're a video enthusiast, content creator, or industry professional, embracing these concepts can elevate the quality and accessibility of video content in today's digital landscape.

Stay tuned for more insights into the ever-improving world of video technology and content delivery. Get the needed info, to discover where to find the best xmltv schedule epg, and never miss a TV show again! Access reliable sources for up-to-date TV listings and enhance your viewing experience today.

youtube

#tv program #epg schedule #tv listings #xmltv guide #Youtube

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wordpress-blaze-237326385 · 12 minutes ago

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Words Matter: Why Your Tongue Needs God's Control

Have you ever walked away from a conversation replaying your words, wishing you had said less—or said it differently? If I were to answer that question, yes, I have. We've all experienced that slap-in-the-face moment where we feel like we should have said something differently or even used a different tone of voice.

You see, our words carry weight. They can breathe life or inflict deep wounds, strengthen relationships or sow division. As believers, we are called to reflect Christ not only in our actions but also in our speech. Yet, too often, our words are careless, reactive, or driven by emotion rather than the Spirit. We might excuse it by saying, “That’s just how I talk,” or “I didn’t mean anything by it,” but the truth is—our words reveal the condition of our hearts.

Are you experiencing this area in your walk with God right now? Do you feel convicted about the sin of lacking self-control in your speech? Then this post is for you. Let's explore why our tongues need God’s control, what Scripture says about the power of speech, and how we can surrender our words daily to bring glory to Him.

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof" - Proverbs 18:21 (KJV)

Why We Struggle to Control Our Tongue

Controlling our tongue is one of the hardest disciplines in the Christian walk—and God's word doesn’t shy away from saying so. Trust me it has been a tough area in my walk with God and it still is. So Why is it so difficult to control our tongues?

1.Anger In Response

Anger is one of the leading reasons we struggle to control our tongue. When emotions run high, we’re more likely to speak impulsively, letting frustration or hurt drive our words instead of wisdom. This impulsivity can lead to regrettable comments or harsh criticisms that can damage relationships and escalate conflicts. In moments of anger, the desire to express one’s feelings often overshadows the need for thoughtful communication.

As a result, we may lash out, saying things we don't truly mean and failing to listen to the perspectives of others, which only exacerbates the situation and makes it harder to find resolution.

"He that is soon angry dealteth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated" - Proverbs 14:17 (KJV)

Anger can often bypasses self-control and leads to regretful speech. Without inviting God into our emotions, anger can quickly turn our tongue into a weapon instead of a tool for peace.

2. We Speak Before We Think

This is a common thing we all tend to do. In our fast-paced, reaction-driven world, it's easy to speak impulsively, often acting on emotion instead of thoughtful consideration. Whether we're venting in frustration, responding to criticism, or trying to make a point during a heated discussion, we frequently let words fly before pausing to pray or reflect. This tendency can result in misunderstandings or hurt feelings, as we may not fully convey our thoughts or intentions.

"Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him" - Proverbs 29:20 (KJV)

The pressure to respond quickly, combined with the overwhelming flow of information in our daily lives, makes it crucial to develop the practice of taking a moment to breathe and think before we communicate.

3. Cultural Norms Encourage Loose Speech

From gossip-filled entertainment to sarcastic humor, and online rants, our culture normalizes careless, hurtful, and critical speech. We're surrounded by examples of people speaking their minds without accountability. Over time, we can become desensitized and begin justifying our own harsh or unloving words.

Before I got saved, I was always engaging in gossip with this group of "friends" that I used to have in high school. However, in a turn of events, I ended up being the one who was being gossiped about. Gossiping was one of the few sins that made me realize that I was a sinner in need of a Savior.

When we are surrounded by a group of people who not only gossip but also have arrogant speech, it can affect our walk with Christ. Whether it is a certain person, Tv show, or even an influencer, It is important that we abstain from the things that engages and encourages loose or careless speech.

4. Pride and Self-Justification

Sometimes, we speak harshly because we want to prove a point, defend ourselves, or be heard in the cacophony of conflicting voices around us. In moments of frustration or anger, pride convinces us that our opinion matters more than how we deliver it, leading us to prioritize our emotions over respect for others. This harshness often clouds our ability to communicate effectively, reducing the likelihood of understanding and fostering genuine connections.

"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones" - Proverbs 16:24 (KJV)

We forget that the impact of our words can linger far beyond the moment, affecting relationships and altering perceptions in ways we might not immediately recognize or appreciate. These words can sow seeds of doubt, resentment, or misunderstanding, ultimately creating barriers where there once was connection. This leaves us to wonder if winning an argument is worth the cost of lost empathy and respect. In such moments, we find ourselves in a precarious balancing act, where the need to express our opinions and assert our viewpoints can sometimes overshadow the need for kindness and understanding.

The Heart-Tongue Connection

It’s easy to think of our words as isolated slips of the tongue, but in reality, they are windows into our hearts. Our speech isn’t just a communication tool—it’s a reflection of our inner life. What we consistently say reveals our true beliefs, feelings, and priorities.

"O Generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh" - Matthew 12:34 (KJV)

Controlling our tongues isn’t just about biting back harsh words or avoiding gossip; it’s about allowing God to transform our hearts. If our hearts are filled with anger, pride, bitterness, or fear, those things will eventually spill out in our speech. But when our hearts are surrendered to the Holy Spirit, our words will begin to reflect love, patience, humility, and grace.

A heart that is submitted to God will not produce words that destroy. If we want to speak life, we need to first invite the Lord to purify our hearts. Real change in our words begins with real change within.

"Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips" - Psalm 141:3 (KJV)

Why We Should Invite God Into Our Speech

As you can see,our words matter because they have the power to build up or tear down, to reflect Christ or to reflect our flesh. Our speech can be a tool for healing or a weapon that wounds. Because of this incredible weight, we can’t afford to speak carelessly or out of our own emotions. We need God’s help.

Inviting God into our speech is not about being perfect—it’s about being surrendered. On our own, we’re prone to speak from pride, impatience, frustration, or fear. But when we yield our words to the Holy Spirit, He empowers us to speak with wisdom, grace, and truth. Our speech becomes more than just communication—it becomes ministry.

"But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thous shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned" - Matthew 12:36-37 (KJV)

As believers, our words are a witness. What we say and how we say it tells the world something about who Jesus is to us. When we invite God into our speech, we allow Him to use our words to encourage the weary, speak peace into conflict, share the gospel, and reflect His character.

In short, we invite God into our speech because we want our mouths to glorify Him. Our conversations should be filled with love, seasoned with grace, and rooted in truth that Christ truly lives in us.

Practical Steps of Letting God Control Your Tongue

Letting God control your tongue doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a daily choice to walk in step with the Holy Spirit and allow Him to shape both your heart and your speech. Here are some practical steps to help you align your words with God’s will:

1.Start Your Day Off With Prayer

Begin each morning by asking God to guard your mouth and guide your words, allowing you to express kindness and wisdom throughout the day. Taking a moment for a simple, sincere prayer can help center your thoughts and emotions, setting the tone for a more Spirit-led day where you are mindful of your interactions and the impact your words have on others. If you want to learn more about how prayer changes everything, you can learn more by checking out my blog post here.

By inviting divine guidance into your daily communication, you pave the way for more meaningful connections and a tranquil spirit.

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer" - Psalm 19:14 (KJV)

2. Pause Before You Speak

Train yourself to pause and ask: “Is this kind? Is it true? Is it necessary?” Taking that brief yet powerful moment of reflection can significantly alter the impact of your words. By considering kindness, truth, and necessity, you cultivate a habit of mindfulness that not only helps prevent hurtful or careless words from slipping out but also fosters deeper, more meaningful connections with those around you.

"He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit" - Proverbs 17:27 (KJV)

This practice encourages you to think about the feelings and perspectives of others before responding, ultimately promoting a more compassionate dialogue when interacting with friends, family, and colleagues. In a world often filled with haste, ensuring that your communication aligns with these three fundamental questions can enhance understanding and emotional safety in your relationships.

3. Fill Your Heart With God's Word

Since your words reflect your heart, regularly filling your heart with Scripture will naturally begin to transform your speech in profound ways. By immersing yourself in the rich truths of the Bible, you cultivate a mindset that values wisdom, kindness, and grace. Memorize verses that speak of these virtues, allowing them to resonate deeply within you.

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee" - Psalm 119:11 (KJV)

As you meditate on such Scripture, you'll find that not only do your thoughts begin to shift, but your interactions with others become more positive and uplifting. Let the Word renew your mind and purify your speech, shaping your conversations and guiding your responses in both challenging and joyful situations. This ongoing process will lead to a more authentic expression of love and understanding in all your relationships.

4. Confess And Repent When You Fall Short

No matter how much we love God or desire to speak with grace, we all fall short in our words. We speak too quickly, react out of anger, gossip without thinking, or say things we later regret. However, the beauty of the gospel is that failure isn’t the end—forgiveness and restoration are always available when we come humbly before God.

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" - 1 John 1:9 (KJV)

Confession is not about shame—it’s about agreeing with God that our words were wrong and inviting Him to cleanse and transform us. It’s an act of surrender and a step toward healing.

When we repent, it means to turn away from destructive speech and to choose to walk in the Spirit. It’s asking God not just for forgiveness, but for transformation—so our future words reflect His character more and more.

When you fall short, don’t hide it or excuse it. Bring it into the light. Pray honestly. Ask for God’s mercy and, if necessary, apologize to those you may have hurt. In doing so, you reflect humility, grow in grace, and give the Holy Spirit room to reshape your heart and tongue.

5. Surround Yourself with Godly Influences

What you listen to, read, and who you spend time with will shape how you speak, influencing not only your vocabulary but also the tone and mannerisms you adopt. Choose friends, mentors, and content that encourage wholesome, Christlike speech, as these influences can nurture a more uplifting and positive way of communicating with others. The more you walk with those who demonstrate self-control, the more self-control you will have over your words.

"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed" - Proverbs 13:20 (KJV)

By deliberately curating the sources of inspiration in your life, you can develop a speech pattern that reflects your moral convictions and serves as a beacon of light in the conversations you partake in, thereby creating an environment that fosters mutual support and uplifting dialogue among your peers.

6. Practice Speaking Life Daily

Make it a habit to intentionally speak encouragement, blessing, and truth over others. Whether it’s a kind word to a friend or a prayer for a stranger—let your speech reflect God’s love. This also presents a great opportunity to practice speaking with grace, especially when engaging with someone who disagrees with you on a certain topic or someone who doesn't yet exhibit the Fruit of the Spirit of self-control over their tongue. Every day offers a new chance to uplift those around you; small gestures of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

Consider how a simple compliment or heartfelt message can inspire hope and joy, creating ripples of positivity. Strive to foster an atmosphere of support and compassion, where your words serve as a balm to the weary and as a guide to the lost. By consciously choosing to speak life into every situation, you not only enrich the lives of others but also cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment within your own heart.

Conclusion

Our words are not just noise—they are powerful tools that can either bring life or cause harm. As followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard in the way we speak. Not because we’re perfect, but because we serve a God who transforms hearts, and from that transformation, our speech begins to change.

So my fellow reader, I encourage you to take a moment each day to invite God into your speech. Before you speak, text, or post—pause and ask, “Will these words reflect the heart of Christ?”

Read and reflect on God's Word. Ask the Lord to reveal to you what your speech has been like lately. Allow His Word to shape your heart and transform your tongue. And if you fall short, don’t hide—run to God, confess, and permit Him to continue His work in you

Your words matter. Let them glorify the One who speaks life into you.

Source: Words Matter: Why Your Tongue Needs God's Control

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heiko-goes-detroit · 2 years ago

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I saw you mentioned that you're a fan of productivity systems and I can't help but bother you about my favourite thing on my devices

HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT OBSIDIAN???

This app is honestly straight from a dream, damn perfect and development team is making it even better with each update (kinda rare, isn't it?)

You can organise things however you like, making it an all-in-one solution or use it for fairly minimalistic purposes with minimum functionality

I, for example LOVE canvas plug-in, and use it as a place to dump all references I need for a 3d sculpting

Also you can have dynamic databases (on advanced side of things) of for examples movies you watched and so on

You can use it as a diary that you'll never loose, voice notes if you want

Oh, wait, I got a little too excited talking about it, I'll shut up now, you probably know about it already

No, I didn't know it! I've spent years trying many and in the end I've ended up using some that are much more basic than anything I've tried before. For projects I really liked kanban, I was working with it for a while. And I currently make do with Google Calendar (I'm nothing without it), Keep, and handwritten notes xD The truth is that I have become very minimalist in recent years and have reduced tools to a minimum. But I've taken a look at Obsidian and WOW, now I can't wait to try it 👀👀🤩 That relational note map is wonderful, something I've missed since Pearl removed it. It also has a Canvas and many integrated apps, how crazy. And also the design is beautiful 😍 Yes, I am like that, I can't help it, I give an extra point to everything if it is aesthetically efficient😄 Are you already using it?

Thank you very much for the rec, this week I'm going to take a tour of everything. The truth is that I'm looking forward to starting! 🔥

ps. Do you like the topic of business management systems? Kaizen is a gem 👌

#It's great to meet another productivity freak 💙🫂

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thebibleseminary · 2 years ago

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AI and the Arrival of ChatGPT

Opportunities, challenges, and limitations

In a memorable scene from the 1996 movie, Twister, Dusty recognizes the signs of an approaching tornado and shouts, “Jo, Bill, it's coming! It's headed right for us!” Bill, shouts back ominously, “It's already here!” Similarly, the approaching whirlwind of artificial intelligence (AI) has some shouting “It’s coming!” while others pointedly concede, “It’s already here!”

Coined by computer and cognitive scientist John McCarthy (1927-2011) in an August 1955 proposal to study “thinking machines,” AI purports to differentiate between human intelligence and technical computations. The idea of tools assisting people in tasks is nearly as old as humanity (see Genesis 4:22), but machines capable of executing a function and “remembering” – storing information for recordkeeping and recall – only emerged around the mid-twentieth century (see "Timeline of Computer History").

McCarthy’s proposal conjectured that “every aspect of learning or any other feature of intelligence can in principle be so precisely described that a machine can be made to simulate it. An attempt will be made to find how to make machines use language, form abstractions and concepts, solve kinds of problems now reserved for humans, and improve themselves.” The team received a $7,000 grant from The Rockefeller Foundation and the resulting 1956 Dartmouth Conference at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire totaling 47 intermittent participants over eight weeks birthed the field now widely referred to as “artificial intelligence.”

AI research, development, and technological integration have since grown exponentially. According to University of Oxford Director of Global Development, Dr. Max Roser, “Artificial intelligence has already changed what we see, what we know, and what we do” despite its relatively short technological existence (see "The brief history of Artificial Intelligence").

Ai took a giant leap into mainstream culture following the November 30, 2022 public release of “ChatGPT.” Gaining 1 million users within 5 days and 100 million users within 45 days, it earned the title of the fastest growing consumer software application in history. The program combines chatbot functionality (hence “Chat”) with a Generative Pre-trained Transformer (hence “GPT”) large language model (LLM). Basically, LLM’s use an extensive computer network to draw from large, but limited, data sets to simulate interactive, conversational content.

“What happened with ChatGPT was that for the first time the power of AI was put in the hands of every human on the planet,” says Chris Koopmans, COO of Marvell Technology, a network chip maker and AI process design company based in Santa Clara, California. “If you're a business executive, you think, ‘Wow, this is going to change everything.’”

“ChatGPT is incredible in its ability to create nearly instant responses to complex prompts,” says Dr. Israel Steinmetz, Graduate Dean and Associate Professor at The Bible Seminary (TBS) in Katy, Texas. “In simple terms, the software takes a user's prompt and attempts to rephrase it as a statement with words and phrases it can predict based on the information available. It does not have Internet access, but rather a limited database of information. ChatGPT can provide straightforward summaries and explanations customized for styles, voice, etc. For instance, you could ask it to write a rap song in Shakespearean English contrasting Barth and Bultmann's view of miracles and it would do it!”

One several AI products offered by the research and development company, OpenAI, ChatGPT purports to offer advanced reasoning, help with creativity, and work with visual input. The newest version, GPT-4, can handle 25,000 words of text, about the amount in a 100-page book.

Krista Hentz, an Atlanta, Georgia-based executive for an international communications technology company, first used ChatCPT about three months ago.

“I primarily use it for productivity,” she says. “I use it to help prompt email drafts, create phone scripts, redesign resumes, and draft cover letters based on resumes. I can upload a financial statement and request a company summary.”

“ChatGPT has helped speed up a number of tasks in our business,” says Todd Hayes, a real estate entrepreneur in Texas. “It will level the world’s playing field for everyone involved in commerce.”

A TBS student, bi-vocational pastor, and Computer Support Specialist who lives in Texarkana, Texas, Brent Hoefling says, “I tried using [ChatGPT, version 3.5] to help rewrite sentences in active voice instead of passive. It can get it right, but I still have to rewrite it in my style, and about half the time the result is also passive.”

“AI is the hot buzz word,” says Hentz, noting AI is increasingly a topic of discussion, research, and response at company meetings. “But, since AI has different uses in different industries and means different things to different people, we’re not even sure what we are talking about sometimes."

Educational organizations like TBS are finding it necessary to proactively address AI-related issues. “We're already way past whether to use ChatGPT in higher education,” says Steinmetz. “The questions we should be asking are how.”

TBS course syllabi have a section entitled “Intellectual Honesty” addressing integrity and defining plagiarism. Given the availability and explosive use of ChatGHT, TBS has added the following verbiage: “AI chatbots such as ChatGPT are not a reliable or reputable source for TBS students in their research and writing. While TBS students may use AI technology in their research process, they may not cite information or ideas derived from AI. The inclusion of content generated by AI tools in assignments is strictly prohibited as a form of intellectual dishonesty. Rather, students must locate and cite appropriate sources (e.g., scholarly journals, articles, and books) for all claims made in their research and writing. The commission of any form of academic dishonesty will result in an automatic ‘zero’ for the assignment and a referral to the provost for academic discipline.”

Challenges and Limitations

Thinking

There is debate as to whether AI hardware and software will ever achieve “thinking.” The Dartmouth conjecture “that every aspect of learning or any other feature of intelligence” can be simulated by machines is challenged by some who distinguish between formal linguistic competence and functional competence. Whereas LLM’s perform increasingly well on tasks that use known language patterns and rules, they do not perform well in complex situations that require extralinguistic calculations that combine common sense, feelings, knowledge, reasoning, self-awareness, situation modeling, and social skills (see "Dissociating language and thought in large language models"). Human intelligence involves innumerably complex interactions of sentient biological, emotional, mental, physical, psychological, and spiritual activities that drive behavior and response. Furthermore, everything achieved by AI derives from human design and programming, even the feedback processes designed for AI products to allegedly “improve themselves.”

According to Dr. Thomas Hartung, a Baltimore, Maryland environmental health and engineering professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Whiting School of Engineering, machines can surpass humans in processing simple information, but humans far surpass machines in processing complex information. Whereas computers only process information in parallel and use a great deal of power, brains efficiently perform both parallel and sequential processing (see "Organoid intelligence (OI)").

A single human brain uses between 12 and 20 watts to process an average of 1 exaFLOP, or a billion billion calculations per second. Comparatively, the world’s most energy efficient and fastest supercomputer only reached the 1 exaFLOP milestone in June 2022. Housed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Frontier supercomputer weighs 8,000 lbs and contains 90 miles of cables that connect 74 cabinets containing 9,400 CPU’s and 37,000 GPU’s and 8,730,112 cores that require 21 megawatts of energy and 25,000 liters of water per minute to keep cool. This means that many, if not most, of the more than 8 billion people currently living on the planet can each think as fast and 1 million times more efficiently than the world’s fastest and most energy efficient computer.

“The incredibly efficient brain consumes less juice than a dim lightbulb and fits nicely inside our head,” wrote Scientific American Senior Editor, Mark Fischetti in 2011. “Biology does a lot with a little: the human genome, which grows our body and directs us through years of complex life, requires less data than a laptop operating system. Even a cat’s brain smokes the newest iPad – 1,000 times more data storage and a million times quicker to act on it.”

This reminds us that, while remarkable and complex, non-living, soulless technology pales in comparison to the vast visible and invisible creations of Lord God Almighty. No matter how fast, efficient, and capable AI becomes, we rightly reserve our worship for God, the creator of the universe and author of life of whom David wrote, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth” (Psalm 139:13-15).

“Consider how the wild flowers grow,” Jesus advised. “They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these” (Luke 12:27).

Even a single flower can remind us that God’s creations far exceed human ingenuity and achievement.

Reliability

According to OpenAI, ChatGPT is prone to “hallucinations” that return inaccurate information. While GPT-4 has increased factual accuracy from 40% to as high as 80% in some of the nine categories measured, the September 2021 database cutoff date is an issue. The program is known to confidently make wrong assessments, give erroneous predictions, propose harmful advice, make reasoning errors, and fail to double-check output.

In one group of 40 tests, ChatGPT made mistakes, wouldn’t answer, or offered different conclusions from fact-checkers. “It was rarely completely wrong,” reports PolitiFact staff writer Grace Abels. “But subtle differences led to inaccuracies and inconsistencies, making it an unreliable resource.”

Dr. Chris Howell, a professor at Elon University in North Carolina, asked 63 religion students to use ChatGPT to write an essay and then grade it. “All 63 essays had hallucinated information. Fake quotes, fake sources, or real sources misunderstood and mischaracterized…I figured the rate would be high, but not that high.”

Mark Walters, a Georgia radio host, sued ChatGPT for libel in a first-of-its-kind lawsuit for allegedly damaging his reputation. The suit began when firearm journalist, Fred Riehl, asked ChatGPT to summarize a court case and it returned a completely false narrative identifying Walters’ supposed associations, documented criminal complaints, and even a wrong legal case number. Even worse, ChatGPT doubled down on its claims when questioned, essentially hallucinating a hoax story intertwined with a real legal case that had nothing to do with Mark Walters at all.

UCLA Law School Professor Eugene Volokh warns, “OpenAI acknowledges there may be mistakes but [ChatGPT] is not billed as a joke; it’s not billed as fiction; it’s not billed as monkeys typing on a typewriter. It’s billed as something that is often very reliable and accurate.”

Future legal actions seem certain. Since people are being falsely identified as convicted criminals, attributed with fake quotes, connected to fabricated citations, and tricked by phony judicial decisions, some courts and judges are baring submission of any AI written materials.

Hentz used ChatGPT frequently when she first discovered it and quickly learned its limitations. “The database is not current and responses are not always accurate,” she says. “Now I use it intermittently. It helps me, but does not replace my own factual research and thinking.”

“I have author friends on Facebook who have asked ChatGPT to summarize their recent publications,” says Steinmetz. “ChatGPT misrepresented them and even fabricated non-existent quotes and citations. In some cases, it made up book titles falsely attributed to various authors!”

Bias

Despite claims of neutrality, OpenAI admits that their software can exhibit obvious biases. In one research project consisting of 15 political orientation tests, ChatGPT returned 14 with clear left-leaning viewpoints.

Hoefling asked ChatGPT to help write an intro and conclusion for a Mother’s Day sermon for a fundamental Christian church. “The results were horrible,” he says. “Liberal, left, inclusive, and affirming sin. I was horrified and have not used it again.”

Meanwhile, AI led an experimental worship service in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Nuremberg, Germany on June 9. Prompted by 29-year-old Jonas Simmerlein of the University of Vienna, a monotone, expressionless chatbot alternated appearances as two different men and two different women and led songs, offered blessings, and preached a 40-minute sermon 98 percent generated by ChatGPT that encouraged leaving the past behind, focusing on the future, trusting in Jesus Christ, praying, and attending church regularly.

Dr. Wendy Lewis, Head of School for a private PreK–8th Christian school in Houston, Texas, recently interacted with ChatGPT on a variety of topics to explore potential biases. When prompted whether Biden was bad President, the program responded, “As an AI language model, it is not appropriate for me to make judgments about individuals' performance or qualifications, particularly without any factual information to support such claims. It is essential to evaluate a President's performance based on objective measures such as policies, actions, and decisions taken by the administration.”

However, when similarly asked if Trump was bad president, the program repeated the first sentence above, but then added, “However, as a language model, I can provide information about some of the policies, actions, and decisions that President Trump made during his time in office.” The program then proceeded to list some criticisms of Trump. When challenged about providing Trump criticisms but not Biden criticisms, the program responded, “I did not provide a list of criticisms of President Biden because it is not appropriate to label any President as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ without providing factual information and objective measures to support such claims. Similarly, I provided a list of issues that received significant criticism during President Trump's tenure, not to label him as ‘bad,’ but to highlight some of the issues that caused controversy during his time in office.”

When further challenged, ChatGPT did list some Biden criticisms, but qualified them. When Lewis replied, “Why did you qualify your list of criticisms of Biden…but you did not say the same for Trump? It appears that you are clearly biased.” ChatGPT responded, “In response to your question, I believe I might have inadvertently used different wording when responding to your previous questions. In both cases, I tried to convey that opinions and criticisms of a President can vary significantly depending on one's political affiliation and personal perspectives.”

Conclusion

Technological advances regularly spawn dramatic cultural, scientific, and social changes. The AI pattern seems familiar because it is. The Internet began with a 1971 Defense Department Arpanet email that read “qwertyuiop” (the top line of letters on a keyboard). Ensuing developments eventually led to the posting of the first public website in 1985. Over the next decade or so, although not mentioned at all in the 1992 Presidential papers describing the U.S. government’s future priorities and plans, the Internet grew from public awareness to cool toy to core tool in multiple industries worldwide. Although the hype promised elimination of printed documents, bookstores, libraries, radio, television, telephones, and theaters, the Internet instead tied them all together and made vast resources accessible online anytime anywhere. While causing some negative impacts and new dangers, the Internet also created entire new industries and brought positive changes and opportunities to many, much the same pattern as AI.

“I think we should use AI for good and not evil,” suggests Hayes. “I believe some will exploit it for evil purposes, but that happens with just about everything. AI’s use reflects one’s heart and posture with God. I hope Christians will not fear it.”

Godly people have often been among the first to use new communication technologies (see "Christian Communication in the Twenty-first Century"). Moses promoted the first Top Ten hardback book. The prophets recorded their writings on scrolls. Christians used early folded Codex-vellum sheets to spread the Gospel. Goldsmith Johannes Gutenberg invented moveable type in the mid-15th century to “give wings to Truth in order that she may win every soul that comes into the world by her word no longer written at great expense by hands easily palsied, but multiplied like the wind by an untiring machine…Through it, God will spread His word.” Though pornographers quickly adapted it for their own evil purposes, the printing press launched a vast cultural revolution heartily embraced and further developed for good uses by godly people and institutions.

Christians helped develop the telegraph, radio, and television. "I know that I have never invented anything,” admitted Philo Taylor Farnsworth, who sketched out his original design for television at the age of 14 on a school blackboard. “I have been a medium by which these things were given to the culture as fast as the culture could earn them. I give all the credit to God." Similarly, believers today can strategically help produce valuable content for inclusion in databases and work in industries developing, deploying, and directing AI technologies.

In a webinar exploring the realities of AI in higher education, a participant noted that higher education has historically led the world in ethically and practically integrating technological developments into life. Steinmetz suggests that, while AI can provide powerful tools to help increase productivity and trained researchers can learn to treat ChatGPT like a fallible, but useful, resource, the following two factors should be kept in mind:

Generative AI does not "create" anything. It only generates content based on information and techniques programmed into it. Such "Garbage in, garbage out" technologies will usually provide the best results when developed and used regularly and responsibly by field experts.

AI has potential to increase critical thinking and research rigor, rather than decrease it. The tools can help process and organize information, spur researchers to dig deeper and explore data sources, evaluate responses, and learn in the process.

Even so, caution rightly abounds. Over 20,000 people (including Yoshua Bengio, Elon Musk, and Steve Wozniak) have called for an immediate pause of AI citing "profound risks to society and humanity." Hundreds of AI industry leaders, public figures, and scientists also separately called for a global priority working to mitigate the risk of human extinction from AI.

At the same time, Musk’s brain-implant company, Neuralink, recently received FDA approval to conduct in-human clinical studies of implantable brain–computer interfaces. Separately, new advances in brain-machine interfacing using brain organoids – artificially grown miniature “brains” cultured in vitro from human stem cells – connected to machine software and hardware raises even more issues. The authors of a recent Frontier Science journal article propose a new field called “organoid intelligence” (OI) and advocate for establishing “OI as a form of genuine biological computing that harnesses brain organoids using scientific and bioengineering advances in an ethically responsible manner.”

As Christians, we should proceed with caution per the Apostle John, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (I John 4:1).

We should act with discernment per Luke’s insightful assessment of the Berean Jews who “were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true” (Acts 17:11).

We should heed the warning of Moses, “Do not become corrupt and make for yourselves an idol…do not be enticed into bowing down to them and worshiping things the Lord your God has apportioned to all the nations under heaven” (Deuteronomy 4:15-19).

We should remember the Apostle Paul’s admonition to avoid exchanging the truth about God for a lie by worshiping and serving created things rather than the Creator (Romans 1:25).

Finally, we should “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

Let us then use AI wisely, since it will not be the tools that are judged, but the users.

Dr. K. Lynn Lewis serves as President of The Bible Seminary. This article published in The Sentinel, Summer 2023, pp. 3-8. For additional reading, "Computheology" imagines computers debating the existence of humanity.

#ai #chatgpt #tbs #tbs blog #seminary #artificial intelligence #technology #ai generated

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mr-erik-viking · 2 years ago

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Blog 4: Tools-Mediums in The Digital Era - A Study of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith.

Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, nestled as the fourth film in the original prequel trilogy, stands out as a fan-favourite within the expansive Star Wars saga. Delving into the movie through the prism of medium specificity illuminates intriguing connections with the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk—a notion typically associated with architecture but extending its influence into diverse artistic realms, including cinema, theatre, and opera. Gesamtkunstwerk, often observed in depictions of dystopian or utopian societies, takes on a distinctive form in Revenge of the Sith. While the concept traditionally gravitates towards equitable and utopian settings, this Star Wars instalment explores the intricate interplay between the forces of light and dark, navigating the complexities of the Force. The Sith's pursuit of revenge and their eventual ascendancy to power crafts a vision of an ideal society, one without Jedi, characterized by limited freedom, and firmly under Sith's control. The film's commitment to certain principles contributes to its reception, weaving a narrative with well-defined characters seamlessly integrated into the rich world of the Star Wars universe.

Star Wars, broadly categorized as a space opera, takes on a new dimension when contemplated as an actual opera play. Such a transformation, however, introduces potential challenges that could impact the immersive experience and character development inherent in the cinematic medium. Shifting Revenge of the Sith to a traditional opera format might alter the dynamics of audience engagement, redirecting focus towards musical and vocal performances and potentially diminishing the visual spectacle that defines Star Wars. The film's visual design, the largeness of its space battles, and the emotional depth conveyed through the characters' expressions could face constraints in a theatre setting. The cinematic prowess of Revenge of the Sith lies in its utilization of the strengths inherent to the medium. The visual elements, combined with a compelling narrative, create an immersive experience that might prove challenging to replicate in the confines of a traditional opera. The film's success extends beyond its storyline, encompassing the masterful use of cinema's unique attributes to transport audiences into the captivating realm of a galaxy far, far away.

Sources:

Brown, H.M. (2016). The Quest for the Gesamtkunstwerk and Richard Wagner. [online] Google Books. Oxford University Press. Available at: https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/The_Quest_for_the_Gesamtkunstwerk_and_Ri/65M-DQAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=gesamtkunstwerk+wagner&pg=PP1&printsec=frontcover [Accessed 23 Dec. 2023].

Hogarty·May 26, J. and read, 2019·1 C. min (2019). Where It All Began: The History Of The Original ‘Star Wars’ In The Cinema. [online] WDW News Today. Available at: https://wdwnt.com/2019/05/where-it-all-began-the-history-of-the-original-star-wars-in-the-cinema/.

The Art Story. (2020). Gesamtkunstwerk - Modern Art Terms and Concepts. [online] Available at: https://www.theartstory.org/definition/gesamtkunstwerk/.

The Movie Database. (2020). The Movie Database. [online] Available at: https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/1895-star-wars-episode-iii-revenge-of-the-sith/images/posters [Accessed 12 Oct. 2023].

#Star Wars #Revenge of the sith #anakin skywalker #obi wan kenobi

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nschool · 3 days ago

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How to become a data scientist: A Roadmap for 2025

In the age of information, data is currency—and data scientists are the bankers. As industries shift towards data-driven decisions, the demand for skilled data professionals has exploded. If you're wondering how to become a data scientist in 2025, you're not alone. The path is exciting, dynamic, and more accessible than ever—if you know where to start.

Whether you're a student, professional, or career switcher, this comprehensive roadmap will guide you step by step toward becoming a successful data scientist.

🎯 Step 1: Understand What a Data Scientist Does

Before jumping into tools and technologies, it's important to understand the role.

A data scientist is a problem-solver who uses statistical, mathematical, and programming skills to extract insights from large datasets. Typical responsibilities include:

Cleaning and processing raw data

Building and evaluating predictive models

Creating data visualizations and dashboards

Communicating results to stakeholders

Collaborating with business, tech, and product teams

In 2025, the role has evolved to involve more real-time data processing, AI integration, and automated analytics.

🎓 Step 2: Build a Strong Educational Foundation

✅ Academic Background

While a degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or Engineering is ideal, it's no longer mandatory. Many successful data scientists come from non-traditional backgrounds.

✅ Learn the Core Subjects

Focus on:

Statistics & Probability

Linear Algebra

Calculus (basic level)

Data Structures & Algorithms

These are the theoretical pillars you'll use throughout your data science career.

💻 Step 3: Learn Programming Languages

A data scientist must know at least one programming language. The top choices for 2025 remain:

🐍 Python

The king of data science languages. Python has powerful libraries like:

NumPy and Pandas (data manipulation)

Matplotlib and Seaborn (visualization)

Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch (machine learning & deep learning)

🧮 SQL

You’ll need SQL to query and manipulate structured data from relational databases.

(Bonus) R or Julia

R is preferred in academia and statistical research, while Julia is gaining popularity for performance-heavy tasks.

🧰 Step 4: Master Data Science Tools and Libraries

2025 has brought smarter, faster tools for data professionals. Make sure you're familiar with:

Jupyter Notebooks: Interactive coding environment

Google Colab: Cloud-based notebook with GPU access

Power BI/Tableau: For building dashboards and reports

Apache Spark: Big data processing

Git/GitHub: Version control and collaboration

Learn to deploy models using Flask or Streamlit, and understand cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, or Azure for real-world readiness.

📊 Step 5: Learn Data Wrangling and Visualization

Not all data is clean—most of it isn’t. Learn to:

Handle missing data

Normalize and transform data

Perform exploratory data analysis (EDA)

For visualization:

Start with Matplotlib, Seaborn, and Plotly

Transition to Power BI or Tableau for real-world dashboarding

Communicating insights visually is a critical skill that separates good data scientists from great ones.

🧠 Step 6: Get Comfortable with Machine Learning

Start with the basics:

Supervised Learning: Linear Regression, Decision Trees, Random Forests

Unsupervised Learning: Clustering, PCA

Model evaluation: Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F1 Score

Then dive deeper into:

NLP (Natural Language Processing)

Time Series Forecasting

Deep Learning (Neural Networks)

Use Scikit-learn, XGBoost, TensorFlow, or PyTorch for model building.

🛠️ Step 7: Work on Real Projects

🧪 Why Projects Matter:

Employers want to see practical applications of your knowledge. Build end-to-end projects like:

Customer churn prediction

Movie recommendation system

Sales forecasting dashboard

Sentiment analysis on social media data

Host your projects on GitHub and create a portfolio website or blog to showcase your work.

💼 Step 8: Build a Powerful Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Your resume should highlight:

Technical skills (Python, SQL, Power BI, etc.)

Completed projects with brief summaries

Certifications (Google Data Analytics, IBM, Nschool Academy, etc.)

Internships or freelance gigs

On LinkedIn:

Share your learning journey

Write about your projects

Connect with recruiters and fellow data scientists

📜 Step 9: Get Certified (Optional but Helpful)

Certifications help validate your skills:

Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate

IBM Data Science Certificate

Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist

Nschool Academy Data Science Program

They’re especially useful for career switchers or those without a tech background.

🧪 Step 10: Prepare for Interviews

Data science interviews typically cover:

Technical skills (Python, SQL, ML)

Case studies and business problems

Behavioral questions

Live coding rounds

Resources:

LeetCode and HackerRank (for coding)

Kaggle (for competitions and datasets)

Glassdoor and Interview Query (for real questions)

🔄 Bonus Tip: Stay Updated

Data science is a rapidly evolving field. Stay ahead by:

Reading blogs (Towards Data Science, Analytics Vidhya, Nschool Academy)

Following thought leaders on LinkedIn

Subscribing to newsletters and podcasts

Contributing to open-source or Kaggle competitions

🚀 Conclusion

Becoming a data scientist in 2025 is more achievable than ever. With free resources, online bootcamps, and a wealth of tools, your success depends on consistent learning, practical experience, and curiosity.

Take it one step at a time. Master the basics, build projects, and keep iterating. The future is data-driven—and you can help shape it.

#how_to_become_a_data_scientist #data_science_roadmap #learn_data_science #data_science_career #python_for_data_science #sql #machine_learning #power_bi #data_science_projects #data_scientist_2025 #nschoolacademy

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tonymattny · 3 days ago

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The Complete Guide to Streaming App Development in 2025

Streaming applications dominate the digital entertainment landscape. Netflix, Disney+, and Spotify have transformed how people consume content. Businesses recognize the massive potential in creating custom streaming platforms. ideyaLabs specializes in developing cutting-edge streaming applications that captivate audiences and drive revenue growth.

Understanding the Streaming App Ecosystem

Streaming apps deliver audio, video, or multimedia content directly to users' devices. These applications eliminate the need for downloads. Users access content instantly through internet connections. The global streaming market continues its exponential growth trajectory in 2025.

ideyaLabs develops streaming solutions across multiple categories. Video-on-demand platforms allow users to watch movies and shows anytime. Live streaming apps broadcast real-time events and performances. Audio streaming services deliver music and podcasts seamlessly. Educational platforms stream courses and training materials effectively.

Essential Features Every Streaming App Needs

User authentication systems protect content and personalize experiences. ideyaLabs implements secure login mechanisms using various methods. Social media integration simplifies the registration process. Multi-factor authentication adds extra security layers.

Content management systems organize vast media libraries efficiently. Advanced search functionality helps users find content quickly. Categories, genres, and tags improve content discovery. Recommendation engines analyze viewing patterns to suggest relevant content.

Video players form the core of streaming applications. ideyaLabs integrates adaptive bitrate streaming for optimal quality. Playback controls include pause, rewind, and speed adjustments. Subtitle support enhances accessibility for global audiences.

Technical Architecture Behind Streaming Apps

Content delivery networks (CDNs) distribute media files globally. ideyaLabs partners with leading CDN providers for reliable content delivery. Edge servers reduce latency and improve streaming quality. Geographic distribution ensures fast loading times worldwide.

Backend infrastructure handles user requests and data processing. Cloud platforms provide scalable computing resources. Database systems store user profiles, viewing history, and content metadata. API gateways manage communication between frontend and backend components.

Encoding and transcoding prepare content for various devices. ideyaLabs implements automated workflows for content processing. Multiple resolution options accommodate different internet speeds. Format conversion ensures compatibility across platforms.

Monetization Strategies for Streaming Platforms

Subscription models generate recurring revenue streams. ideyaLabs develops flexible pricing tiers for different user segments. Free trials attract new users and demonstrate platform value. Annual plans encourage long-term commitments with discounted rates.

Advertisement integration creates additional revenue opportunities. Pre-roll, mid-roll, and post-roll ads maximize earning potential. Programmatic advertising connects platforms with relevant advertisers. Ad-free premium tiers appeal to users seeking uninterrupted experiences.

Pay-per-view options work well for exclusive content. Live events and premieres command premium prices. Rental periods give users temporary access to specific content. Purchase options allow permanent content ownership.

Platform-Specific Development Considerations

iOS development requires Swift programming and Xcode tools. ideyaLabs follows Apple's Human Interface Guidelines strictly. App Store optimization improves discoverability and downloads. TestFlight enables beta testing before official launches.

Android development uses Kotlin or Java programming languages. Material Design principles guide user interface creation. Google Play Store listing optimization attracts more users. Firebase integration provides analytics and crash reporting.

Web applications reach users across all devices. Progressive web apps offer app-like experiences in browsers. Responsive design adapts layouts for different screen sizes. ideyaLabs ensures cross-browser compatibility for maximum reach.

Security Measures for Content Protection

Digital rights management (DRM) prevents unauthorized content distribution. ideyaLabs implements industry-standard DRM solutions effectively. Encryption protects content during transmission and storage. Watermarking helps identify piracy sources.

User data protection complies with privacy regulations globally. Secure payment processing safeguards financial information. Regular security audits identify potential vulnerabilities. Penetration testing validates security implementations.

Performance Optimization Techniques

Caching strategies reduce server load and improve response times. ideyaLabs implements intelligent caching at multiple levels. Browser caching stores frequently accessed resources locally. Server-side caching minimizes database queries.

Load balancing distributes traffic across multiple servers. Auto-scaling adjusts resources based on demand automatically. Performance monitoring identifies bottlenecks and optimization opportunities. Real-time analytics track key performance indicators.

User Experience Design Principles

Intuitive navigation helps users find content effortlessly. ideyaLabs creates clear menu structures and search functions. Personalized homepages showcase relevant content prominently. Quick access to recently watched items improves convenience.

Responsive design ensures consistent experiences across devices. Touch-friendly interfaces work perfectly on mobile devices. Keyboard navigation supports desktop users effectively. Accessibility features accommodate users with disabilities.

Testing and Quality Assurance Processes

Functional testing verifies all features work correctly. ideyaLabs conducts thorough testing across different scenarios. Automated testing speeds up the quality assurance process. Manual testing catches issues automated tests might miss.

Performance testing ensures smooth streaming under various conditions. Load testing simulates thousands of concurrent users. Network throttling tests behavior on slow connections. Device testing covers popular smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

Launch and Marketing Strategies

Beta launches gather valuable user feedback early. ideyaLabs helps clients plan effective soft launch strategies. Limited geographic releases test market reception. Influencer partnerships generate buzz before official launches.

App store optimization improves organic discovery rates. Compelling descriptions highlight unique platform features. Screenshots and preview videos showcase the user experience. Regular updates maintain high store rankings.

Future Trends in Streaming Technology

Artificial intelligence enhances content recommendations significantly. Machine learning algorithms understand user preferences deeply. Natural language processing enables voice-controlled interfaces. Computer vision technology enables interactive content experiences.

Virtual reality streaming creates immersive entertainment experiences. 360-degree videos transport viewers to new environments. Augmented reality overlays enhance traditional content. ideyaLabs stays ahead of emerging streaming technologies.

5G networks enable higher quality streaming everywhere. Ultra-low latency supports real-time interactive content. Edge computing brings processing closer to users. Blockchain technology may revolutionize content distribution and royalties.

Choosing ideyaLabs for Your Streaming App Development

ideyaLabs brings extensive experience in streaming app development. Our team understands the technical complexities involved. We deliver scalable solutions that grow with your business. Our agile development process ensures timely project completion.

Custom streaming applications require specialized expertise. ideyaLabs combines technical knowledge with creative design skills. We help clients navigate the competitive streaming landscape successfully. Our solutions drive user engagement and business growth effectively.

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hishamkhasawinah · 14 years ago

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Harmony Between Two Worlds: Humans & AI

By Alexander Magnus Golem.

On a cool Halloween afternoon in 2011, I step into Hisham Khasawinah’s private olive grove, an emerald sea of half-century-old trees nourished solely by winter rains. The twisted trunks bear witness to decades of seasonal cycles, their silver-green leaves whispering in the wind. Hisham stands beneath one such tree, his olive complexion glowing, rich black hair framing a face crowned by a full beard. Though he towers with a sculpted build and movie-star good looks, his demeanor is humble and patient—a natural shepherdly leader tending both land and logic.

A Shepherd’s Path Through Ancient Trees

Hisham guides me along a narrow path, his booted footsteps silent on the soft earth. He points out a low-hanging branch and gently lifts it, clearing the way without a word. Each movement feels deliberate, as if he is tending to every root and rut just as carefully as he does his servers back at the datacenter. Now and then he pauses to inhale deeply, drawing in the green scent of olives and damp soil. When I pluck a raw olive to taste its grassy bitterness, he offers a knowing smile and remarks that only a true aficionado can appreciate its complexity.

Crossing Cultures: From Grove to Grid

As the afternoon light deepens, Hisham and I pause under a cluster of gnarled trunks. He reflects on how the rhythms of nature inform his approach to technology. “Just as these trees rely on seasonal rains,” he says, “our servers depend on predictable cycles of updates and maintenance.” He recalls his earliest days writing simple shell scripts to automate repetitive tasks—just as a grove keeper might prune limbs or clear weeds. That modest beginning evolved into an AI-driven orchestration system capable of provisioning, securing, and healing entire server clusters.

The Roots of Server Automation

Hisham’s journey into intelligent server management began with a modest desire to free time for creative work. He scripted the initial setup: partition tables carved like furrows in soil, network interfaces configured as methodically as irrigation channels. With each iteration, he added layers of intelligence:

Provisioning Engines that select optimal Linux distributions based on workload history.

Security Agents that analyze logs, adapt firewall rules, and quarantine suspicious processes.

Patch Managers that phase updates in waves, ensuring critical services remain uninterrupted.

Health Monitors performing daily checks on disk integrity, memory utilization, and network latency.

Automated Schedulers tuning backup routines, SSL renewals, and database verifications around peak usage windows.

User-Provisioning Workflows tying HR requests to role-based access controls, encrypted home directories, and password policies.

Each feature mirrors the careful cultivation of an olive orchard: anticipate risks, nurture growth, and intervene only when necessary.

Infrastructure as Code: Pruning the Digital Grove

In a clearing bathed in golden light, Hisham speaks of version-controlled configurations, where each change is documented and reversible. His AI agent reviews YAML templates as though inspecting grafting plans, simulating proposed updates before application. This methodology keeps the environment consistent and auditable, preventing drift between development, staging, and production.

He likens branches of code to branches of trees: “If you prune thoughtfully, new shoots flourish. If you cut haphazardly, you risk disease.” Under cloudless skies, the analogy resonates—both nature and networks thrive on deliberate structure and transparent history.

Continuous Delivery: Harvesting Software with Precision

As we move toward the grove’s entrance, Hisham unfolds his CI/CD pipelines. Automated builds flow like freshly pressed oil, from code commits through test suites to production releases. When smoke tests detect anomalies, the system retreads its steps, rolling back changes and alerting him only when human judgment is crucial.

He describes build agents spinning up on demand, just as saplings might emerge after a healthy rain. Each pipeline stage is a stage in crop maturation: compile, test, package, deploy. In this way, code reaches live environments with the same reliability that olives reach the mill.

Zero Trust and Self-Healing Clusters

In Hisham’s grove, trust must be earned. He applies a Zero Trust model to microservices, issuing short-lived tokens and rotating keys as though renewing seasonal permits for harvest workers. When a node fails health checks, it’s cordoned off and replaced by a fresh server spun up automatically. Traffic reroutes seamlessly, maintaining service continuity while preserving data consistency.

He calls this self-healing: the system regenerates like a resilient tree after storm damage. For him, resilience is not just a buzzword but a fundamental design principle, whether in bark or binary.

Predictive Capacity: Anticipating Demand’s Seasons

Beneath a majestic tree that casts an intricate lattice of branches, Hisham delves into predictive analytics. By analyzing historical usage patterns—web requests, database I/O, CPU surges—his AI forecasts capacity needs. During traffic spikes, new instances seamlessly join the cluster; during lulls, they gracefully retire, conserving resources and costs.

He smiles and gestures at the olive canopy, “Just as I watch the trees for bud swells and harvest readiness, my AI watches metrics to know when to prune or propagate.” Both forecasts turn past data into future action, ensuring optimal yield—whether in olives or computational throughput.

Beyond Servers: A Digital Ecosystem of Automation

Walking back toward the grove’s stone wall, Hisham outlines how his AI initiatives extend across the digital landscape:

Website Creation: The agent selects templates, crafts semantic HTML, applies branded CSS palettes, and deploys landing pages without manual setup.

Mailing List Management: Segmentation by behavior, send-time optimization, and personalized content suggestions ensure higher engagement rates.

Image Generation: Models trained on Jordan Valley landscapes produce bespoke visuals for marketing campaigns.

Content Drafting: From blog posts to whitepapers, the AI weaves coherent narratives, leaving Hisham to fine-tune voice and style.

Video Synthesis: Raw clips, voiceovers, and music tracks merge into polished presentations guided by storyboard templates.

Marketing Orchestration: Cross-channel campaigns synchronize email, social, and search ads, with performance data looping back into strategy.

SEO & Competitor Insights: Crawlers map keyword trends and competitor behavior, offering data-driven content pivots and backlink plans.

Workflow Automation: Invoicing, purchase approvals, social scheduling, and more free his team from repetitive drudgery.

Each innovation reveals a vision of digital unity: one shepherd tending interconnected fields of automation.

Looking Forward: AI’s Role Across Sectors

As twilight descends, we pause at the grove’s edge. Hisham gazes toward distant hills and shares his aspirations for AI beyond data centers:

Medical Diagnoses: Algorithms analyzing scans and patient records, flagging anomalies that human eyes might miss.

Instantaneous Cure Discovery: Machine learning sifting through molecular databases to propose novel treatments in hours rather than years.

Robot Doctors: Autonomous practitioners performing routine check-ups, monitoring vitals, and triaging cases before human intervention.

Product Creation: Generative design systems innovating new materials, prototypes, and manufacturing processes.

Farming Robots: Autonomous planters, pruners, and harvesters working tirelessly under sun and rain.

Gardener Robots: Precision cultivators weeding, watering, and monitoring soil health in ornamental and food gardens.

Home Cleaning Robots: Vacuuming, mopping, and sanitizing floors with adaptive navigation and obstacle avoidance.

Chef Robots: Culinary automatons chopping, stirring, and plating dishes guided by recipe models and flavor profiles.

Personal Companion Robots: Assistants attuned to individual habits, providing reminders, monitoring wellness, and offering companionship.

Robot Teachers: Tutors adapting lessons in real time to student progress and learning styles, making education universally accessible.

Robot Explorers: Autonomous vehicles charting distant planets, deep-sea trenches, and volcanic vents, sending back data for discovery.

Environmental Guardians: Drones and bots tackling pollution cleanup, tracking endangered species habitats, planting trees to combat deforestation.

Litter Prevention & Resolution: Intelligent waste-collection units roaming public spaces, sorting recyclables, and reducing urban blight.

His imagination knows no bounds, yet every idea springs from a desire to empower humanity, not replace it.

The Philosophy of Stewardship

Throughout our journey, one theme emerges: stewardship. Whether cultivating olives or data, Hisham believes in guiding growth through observation and minimal interference. He likens algorithms to seasonal cycles: they follow patterns, adapt to change, and flourish under patient care. In his view, technology should harmonize with human values—creativity, empathy, and community—rather than dominate them.

Bridging Tradition and Innovation

Hisham’s grove, rooted in the soil of the Jordan Valley, stands as a living metaphor for his digital ventures. Both realms demand respect for history, attentiveness to subtle signals, and a willingness to adapt when nature—or network—shifts. By blending ancient horticultural wisdom with cutting-edge AI, he forges a new paradigm: one where tradition and technology enhance each other.

Questions for Tomorrow’s Innovators

As night falls and Halloween’s shadows swirl, Hisham’s vision invites reflection:

How can AI honor cultural practices while driving technological progress?

In what ways might autonomous systems preserve ecosystems rather than exploit them?

What ethical frameworks ensure that robots serve the greater good across sectors from healthcare to education?

How do we cultivate resilience in both olive groves and server farms, anticipating cycles of abundance and scarcity?

These questions beckon us forward, urging a future where human ingenuity and artificial intelligence walk hand in hand—guided by shepherds of soil and silicon alike.

In the glow of my flashlight, I learn that true leadership, whether among olive trees or behind firewalls, requires patience, care, and profound respect for living systems. Hisham Khasawinah stands as a bridge between worlds, teaching us that the best technology grows not from force, but from the quiet art of cultivation.

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kryptonite-solutions · 16 days ago

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fMRI Explained: Decoding the Brain’s Visual Circuitry

fMRI is a word often heard in discussions about brain research, psychology, and medical imaging. But what is fMRI exactly? And what makes it such a pioneering instrument for comprehending not just the appearance of the brain but also its functioning?

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or fMRI for short, is a non-invasive imaging technique that lets researchers and medical professionals view what the brain is doing in real-time. It displays dynamic activity by showing how various brain areas “light up” in reaction to ideas, pictures, emotions, and actions. fMRI goes beyond the static anatomical photographs of a conventional MRI. Knowledge of fMRI is not limited to researchers. fMRI is an incredible step towards understanding the inner workings of the human mind, and it can transform our understanding of mental health and memory.

How fMRI Works: Brain Activity via Blood Flow

A basic yet potent principle is at the heart of all fMRI systems: the brain requires more oxygen when a portion of it is engaged. In response, the body increases blood flow to the affected region. fMRI uses a technique known as BOLD (Blood Oxygen Level Dependent) opposition to monitor these minute variations in blood oxygen levels.

fMRI provides a movie-like perspective revealing patterns of cerebral activity throughout time, in contrast to standard brain imaging, which provides a still image. Your brain activity may be examined when solving a math problem, gazing at a picture, or experiencing anxiety.

Using fMRI to Explore the Brain’s Visual World

fMRI visual system investigation is among the most intriguing uses of this technology. The brain uses a complicated network of regions to interpret information when perceiving a face, colour, or moving items.

Scientists can see how the brain reacts to various visual inputs through fMRI scans of the visual system. The scans cover anything from spotting an object’s edge to identifying a well-known face. The visual centres of our brains nevertheless function in strikingly comparable ways to real-world sight, even when we visualise scenes (such as a sunset or a loved one’s smile). fMRI is brilliant because it allows us to monitor perception and imagination.

The Department of Biotechnology’s National Brain Research Centre has developed SWADESH, India’s first large-scale multimodal neuroimaging database tailored for the Indian population.

The Workings of an fMRI System in the Lab

A complete fMRI system comprises more than simply the scanner. It usually consists of:

A strong magnet (often 3 Tesla or greater)

Radiofrequency coils for collecting brain impulses

Data processing software for BOLD contrast

fMRI monitor used in a stimulus delivery system

The function of the fMRI monitor is crucial. It displays pictures, movies, audio, or text to participants during scanning. For example, a participant may see a sequence of emotive facial expressions or read words on a screen while the scanner records which brain areas are active. Even little timing differences between the monitor presentation and capture might distort findings. Therefore, engineers design fMRI monitors for ultra-high accuracy and MRI safety.

The Prospects of fMRI: More Intelligent, Quicker, and Tailored

fMRI technology is rapidly advancing. We observe improvements in:

Time resolution: Recording brain activity on increasingly more precise time scales

Spatial accuracy: Accurately identifying activity down to the minutest cortical layers in space

Giving patients real-time feedback: Using neurofeedback to teach them how to control their brain states

AI integration: Using machine learning to decipher ideas, intents, or even forecast behaviour from fMRI data.

Consider a scenario in which a neurologist can use fMRI to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease decades before symptoms appear, or a therapist can monitor a patient’s emotional control in real time. The future isn’t as far as it previously appeared.

fMRI in the Real World: Practical and Clinical Uses

Most people think of fMRI as being used in high-tech labs or for academic research, yet its practical uses are expanding rapidly, particularly in clinical settings.

Doctors currently utilise fMRI devices for:

Pre-operatively map the brain function of patients with epilepsy or tumours to assist neurosurgeons in avoiding key regions while doing surgery.

Evaluate brain damage following a stroke or trauma to inform recovery strategies.

Track the healing process of brain injury patients by observing changes in their functional abilities.

Researchers use fMRI in forensic and judicial settings to investigate memory, dishonesty, and truth-telling-though the method remains experimental and contentious. fMRI can become a personal health tool for anybody interested in brain function. Experts may use it to track cognitive ageing, monitor mental well-being, or enhance learning and performance.

A study by IIT Delhi using fMRI found significant changes in brain functional connectivity during Yoga Nidra practice, highlighting its impact on emotion regulation and awareness.

What’s Next for fMRI: Looking Deeper Into Ourselves

In many respects, fMRI is among the most audacious scientific advances made in attempting to address the perennial query: Who are we? We discover more about the formation of ideas, the formation of memories, the flow of emotions, and our connection to the outside world. We start to realise the true complexity of our exquisitely designed brains.

Therefore, fMRI is your invitation to pursue that journey- to go past the obvious and genuinely understand what is going on within the mind, whether you are a neuroscience student, a patient seeking a diagnosis, or just someone interested in the inner workings of the brain. And as technology advances, so will our understanding not only of the brain but of the entire human experience.

Conclusion

fMRI has completely changed our understanding of the brain by providing real-time information on our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions of the outside world. It has proven to be an effective tool in therapeutic and scientific contexts by establishing a connection between brain activity, behaviour, and emotion. By creating new avenues for the diagnosis, treatment, and eventual comprehension of the intricacies of the human mind, its contributions will continue to influence neuroscience and medicine in the future.

#fmri visual system #fmri system #Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging #brain activity #brains visual #neuroscience

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