#360-degree face detection

[sharkk-finds]

Magnificent Nature: The Hammerhead

Okay, You’re A Shark Conservationist…..

There’s a question I get asked so many times when I bring up what I do for a living, and it seems like it’s always the same thing. “Why does a hammerhead's head look like a hammer, and what is it used for?”

Well, I'm going to do more than just write a research paper on it, that's for sure. I’m going to tell you everything about this fantastic shark species, and why they’re my favorite out of all sharks in the ocean.

The Visible Truth

10 times out of 10 you can spot which shark is a hammerhead, and it all comes down to its name, as well as the simple fact that this shark does indeed have a head like a hammer. So, what is it used for, and how can this oddly shaped head lead to a shark’s survival?

The Head

The head of a hammerhead shark is called a cephalofoil, this helps provide lift making it easier and more efficient to move instead of swimming upright like other predators. This ‘cephalofoil’ or head, helps the shark make quick turns and pin their food to the seafloor. However, this behavior isn’t documented through the lens of a camera.

Unlike most sharks who have their eyes facing forward, a hammerhead’s eyes are widely separated, connecting to the cephalofoil at the sides. This drastic change in appearance, makes the hammerhead have a wider view of the sea rather than its relatives, who only see at a certain angle. In total a hammerhead shark can see 360 degrees around its body, like a panoramic camera. However, these creatures cannot see in-front of them.

They can sense what?!

This hammer head also contains electroreceptor pores, called Ampullae of Lorenzini. These pores help sense electrical waves in the ocean, and make it easier to hunt down and locate prey. It should also be known that the hammerhead has the most electroreceptor pores than any other shark, and these are just in it’s head!

These electroreceptor pores are extremely sensitive and can detect as small as 5 billionths volt per square centimeter. Which is why when humans tend to swim in the ocean, and splash around, sharks can be spotted. A single splash from a single person at the beach can reach a hammerhead’s pores in less than 3 minutes. 

A splash to us, is just a splash. However, a splash to a shark means a struggling fish, leading to possible attacks or encounters. 

How do they Hunt, though?

A hammerhead’s head can help this creature roll over and swim sideways, to save energy for big hunts. How amazing is that? When hunting these species of shark typically hunt alone, and can be found in temperate or tropical waters all around the world. 

These sharks are very social creatures, they form a school of hundreds of hammerheads at a time, but by dawn (which is typically when a hammerhead hunts) they go their separate ways until it is time to have a nice family gathering. 

Hammerhead’s can communicate with each other by simply moving their bodies in a certain way, whether that means a change in weather, prey scouting, or migration. Their prey includes a variety of fish such as; bony fish, crustaceans, batoids, and mollusks. However their preferred prey are animals such as; stingrays, octopus and lobsters.

Migration and Mating

Some populations of hammerheads move pole-ward during the winter, however females tend to migrate offshore earlier than males, and return to the same sites to pup (give birth) once they reach maturity.

These magnificent females can give birth to up to 50 pups all at once, and their pregnancy typically lasts for 8 to 10 months. Some of this species can even give “virgin births’.

Final Thoughts

I love talking about this species, as they are the most sought out for their fins. And in my personal opinion, one of the most cool looking sharks in the open ocean as of today. (Slightly beating the goblin shark.)

I hope you learned something, and as always RESPECT THE LOCALS!

[thephonemenarentreal]

Mysterious Fathoms Below

CHAPTER THREE IS OUT! Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three <<Current Chapter>>

Having a blast writing this fic <3 I just like hurt/comfort bonding and slow burns and friendships and found family things <3

Title: Mysterious Fathoms Below

Rating: PG-13

Warnings: Bonding; Hurt/comfort over trauma; awkward small talk, hand holding

Featured Characters: Titan Speakerman, Charybdis (Sea Camera OC), Executor hanging out as baby semi-titan

Guest Starring: Whistle (@tabieeee awesome chief engineer of the speaker faction! Go give them some love!!) Summary: A chance encounter leads to something a little more, a little complicated, and a house divided as surely as Romeo and Juliet, with a touch of tragedy and yearning that comes under the terror of a war. Feelings of any kind though tend to grow in the strangest of places, starting with the simplest of playful meetings. CHAPTER SUMMARY: Maybe it is something about the sea that makes it easy to get things off one's core...and find someone who sees at you that you haven't seen yourself.

The patrol Titan Speakerman flew today was not the most ideal of weather conditions. High winds had picked up, driving the ocean upwards into a heaving mass of white tipped waves that rose and fell in larger and larger swells. Even for someone of the titan’s size and power, flying was made a bit more tricky in the face of such wild winds, which is why the patrol that day had been modified to allow him to be flying in the same direction of the wind to avoid having to battle a headwind.

When the winds picked up, it also meant the chance for bad weather to develop was a greater risk, thus he kept to a higher altitude above the clouds to avoid the worse of the sea-born squalls and rain showers. Usually having to fly higher up was not a big deal. He had plenty of communication arrays and sensors jammed packed along his frame, including an expansive GPS that easily helped him to tell what was going on beneath him. He had a near complete 360 degree view of his surroundings at all times to detect threats, something the other titans lacked. When it came to threat detection, the Titan Speakerman was good at being the first to be alerted to any sort of changes.

However, that was not entirely useful out here, at least not for hunting down the quarry he wanted to encounter. The shy sea camera’s electrical field could mess with his arrays, only giving him a vague idea that they were in the region, not necessarily where they were.

For that, visuals were best as the shadow of the mysterious sea unit’s outline was a dead giveaway, but harder to see among the waves and cloud cover from so high up.

The Titan Speakerman knew that it wouldn’t be easy to spot them and so far there had been no reports incoming of strange electrical incidents save for one naval ship’s navigation shorting out for a brief moment. The engineer on that ship had reported it as an incident of misadventure, not necessarily some electrical anomaly.

Things had been quiet for the last three days. Three days where the titan had not seen frame nor wire of the sea-based semi-titan of the Conglomerate.

With every missed sighting, every day returning to base empty handed with nothing to report but a few skibidi encounters from time time, the Titan Speakerman was beginning to think he wouldn’t ever see them again at all. The disappointment and acceptance of that fact was finally starting to settle in. Today more than others as he neared the end of his patrol, only an hour out from making his ETA and landing for the day. Not a single sighting of that mysterious semi-titan.

“Weather looks like it is clearing up ahead,” Whistle commented, “Will at least be a nice and breezy end of the patrol,”

“mm,”

“Thought that would make you a bit more upbeat rather than being as broody as Executor,”

“I’m not that broody, Whistle,”

“Getting there!”

The Titan Speakerman gave a low growl of his speakers as he started to coast down closer to the ocean, holding out one hand to listlessly trail over the white tipped waves, “Just disappointed is all. No sighting of that sea camera whatsoever,”

“Maybe the Pleasure Cruise moved on. They probably keep close to it,” Whistle reasoned, “May be back another time,”

“I guess,”

The ocean was starting to calm itself as the wind started to die down at last. Being so close to land, the usual change of the sea breeze would soon start to kick as the heat from the land rolled off and back out to sea. With the weather clearing up, maybe it would be a nice sunset over the ocean. At least that might be something to look forward to. Just as he was starting to resign himself back to base after a rather boring patrol, a slight tingle started to be picked up in his sensors and then along his form. The Titan Speakerman drew his hand away from the water as he felt almost like a small prickle of electricity jolt through his fingers. The titan paused, giving a soft warble and cutting his jets to rise up a bit, hovering over the water.

There was nothing at first, just the white-tipped waves rising and falling on the wide expanse of the ocean. Then slowly, a large shadow began to become more clear, slowly moving below in a lazy circle beneath the titan. There was the bright lights of the front of the face, peering up through the water at him, hesitant, guarded, but there.

Excitement was not an emotion that the Titan Speakerman could hold back too well. Before he could think, as natural as it was for a speaker to dance when pleased, there was a rumbling building up in his speakers, filled with eager noises that finally came out in a loud rancorous roar down at the figure below the water. Such a noise was one of excitement, easy for any speaker to tell, but such a loud noise clearly spooked the semi-titan in the water as they shrank deeper into the depths of the water until the light was barely able to be parsed in the fading light of the evening. That cut off the happy cry of the titan quickly and he quickly raised both hands as he dared to draw a bit closer to the water.

“W-wait! It wasn’t aggressive! I swear! I just was saying hi…!”

The sea cam didn’t come up to the surface, but at least wasn’t continuing to back away. That was progress. The titan hovered there, hands still up to appear as non-threatening as possible. He was excited and thus it was hard to keep his voice down or the want to make noise.

“So uh. Hi there,”

Three days to plan on what even to say to the unknown sea cam and he still couldn’t think of how to start a conversation. Nerves were starting to creep up and one hand inched up to rub at his lower speaker lightly in a bit of a nervous habit as he looked away, “Do you uh, have a name? I don’t think I caught it last time,”

The sea cam remained beneath the water a moment longer before slowly starting to come up to the surface. Only their head breached it, the lens, glowing a bright teal fixing on him quietly for a long moment before tilting away.

“Charybdis,”

Again with the soft voice that didn’t seem to match how large they were. So shy it was almost painfully cute.

“Charybdis,” the titan repeated, “Well, I’m Titan Speakerman, T-speak to my friends, but, uh, I guess you already knew that,”

“Maybe. A little,” Charybdis murmured with maybe a hint of a small laugh.

There was movement along their head as two small robotic arms just beneath began to cling at each other, wringing them in nerves. The titan gave another rub at the lower speaker, head tilted away. “So uh, you come here often?” Even to his own auditory sensors, the question was painfully awkward and sounded like something written for a horrible romance on the Hallmark channel. It had him internally cringing, mentally kicking himself for not trying to come up with something a little bit smoother to ask about.

“No. These are Alliance waters. I don’t usually come in at all,” they said softly, “Does that...upset you?”

“Huh? No! I mean, well, it would upset the Alliance I guess, but not me personally,” the titan stammered out, “I uh, was kind of, maybe, sort of looking for you?”

The sea cam just sunk down a bit, their voice somehow getting even softer, strained to a squeak of a mouse, “You were looking for me?”

The titan paused before holding up both hands, “Not looking! More hoping to run into you again? I wasn’t being like a stalker or something! Just sort of, last time was nice and well, didn’t get your name and it was bugging me!”

“Oh,” Charybdis sunk in the water more, just the lens peaking out, “Well, you have my name,”

“Yeah,”

The conversation was so awkwardly shy, the titan was wondering if it was too late to just dunk himself in the ocean out of embarrassment. Honestly how Whistle made this look easy was beyond the titan. Still he forged forward, giving a loud rumble of his speakers like the clearing of a throat and tried to look more suave, arms crossed, leaning against an invisible wall as he hovered in the air.

The very picture of trying to look cool as hell and looking like the greatest dork to grace the skies.

“What has you in Alliance waters then? Just you know, an official question there for reasons,” The titan said, “Since I am all official in the Alliance. As a faction leader titan leader guy and stuff,”

Whistle save him, he was sounding more and more like the most awkward bastard in the Alliance. His nerves were starting to creep up all the more, causing his fans to start to rev from the sheer heat of his embarrassment.

“Well, I wanted to see you...again. Maybe...do something like we did last time,” Charybdis said softly, although their words were muffled some as they ducked a little more down in the water, “It was nice...doing the chasing game with you,”

The titan perked up, giving another eager rumble that was edging towards another shriek that he was keeping down for now, “Yeah? Well, I liked it too!”

“Really?”

This time he couldn’t help the excited shriek of confirmation, although the titan quickly stiffed it when the sea camera ducked away again and a small crackle of electricity was in the air. A tingly thing that made his com array complain, but nothing serious.

“Sorry,” he said, holding both hands up again, fans giving a rev of nerves, “I uh, tend to get excited and get loud,”

Charybdis circled a bit before once more poking their head out, “...its okay. Sometimes I...shock things when I get excited or startled,”

“Guess we have something in common then, huh?”

“Maybe,” Charybids shyly dipped down in the water a bit, “...You...want to play a game again?”

It took so much self control not to just yell as loudly as possible. The most he got these days was sparring matches with titan Cameraman, and although those were fun, there wasn’t much time to just do something silly. Least of all given his size making it hard to play most simple games. He opted for a more controlled yelling and vigorous nod of the head instead as not to chase the sea camera away, “Yes! The chase game?”

“If you want. Or there are some mines down here the skibidis set in the deep waters,” Charybdis murmured, “With my sibling, sometimes I throw them in the air for him to shoot down, if you want to do that…”

The titan paused, thinking on the offer. Target practice was always fun but it was harder to do at base. Mostly because finding good targets for the size of his guns was hard to begin with. Add to that, him firing his guns around the speaker base tended to invoke a lot of trauma in other units. That thought had him wincing and that kernel of misery twisted just a little deeper. It had been a long time since he had been able to put his guns to work without being told off by the higher ups.

“I would like that,” he finally said, voice a bit soft, “I don’t get to do that much,”

“You sure? You seem sad,”

the titan speakerman gave a rev of his jets rising up over the water some, both hands out as he did a little turn in the air, “Not sad! Just it isn’t something I do at base a lot. You know, too loud and stuff, might make people think we are under attack or something!”

Or think he was going to kill them, the horrid voice sneered at the back of his mind. Just like he did before under the influence of that parasite. Quickly he pushed that thought away, not wanting to come across as dreary around what could be a new friend. Instead he gave a louder warble, revving his jets up to hype himself up more.

“Hit me with your best mine! I’m ready!” he slammed his two fists together and gave another loud cry.

Charybdis gave a nod starting to move about in the water with an eager rumble, “All right. Then get ready!”

The sea camera dove quickly, soon out of sight below the water. The Titan Speakerman hovered over the water before darting back as suddenly there was an eruption of water and a large deep sea mine erupted upwards. He was startled only a moment before he was lifting both arms, locking and loading to unleash a shot on it as he zoomed backwards. The mine went off with a loud satisfying boom, fire and sizzling shrapnel whizzing every which way. The titan couldn’t help a pleased shriek at that, darting away as suddenly several more were shot up out of the water in rapid succession.

The Titan Speakerman let out a loud eager shriek then, locked in and eager as he unleashed a volley and perhaps coasting just out of the reach of the explosions, enough to feel the heat against his heels, but be ready to swoop in for more of the mines being thrown up. Charybdis was moving below, the water parting as they gave a somewhat loud trill of their own as the jumped out of the water briefly like a dolphin, tossing up a few more before diving back down just as the titan dove, more than ready to get to each target. There was no telling where Charybdis was throwing them, keeping them both moving in the water in their dangerous game. If high command knew he was doing this, they would be besides themselves with anger and be ready with a lecture about the dangers of using live, dangerous ammunition as target practice, let alone having a unit of the Conglomerate be the one tossing them up.

One wrong move and he could end up blowing up a mine in his face which would leave him with some damages to fix. Still the thrill outweighed the risks sand he was more than confident in his ability to hit targets and get out of the way in time.

It was exciting to get to use his canons without worrying about hitting someone accidentally or being told off for it. The exhilaration had him pushing himself into rather acrobatic aerial maneuvers, up, down, barrel roles, backwards flying, upside down and in quick twirls, all while he was eagerly shouting and shrieking to try and be louder than each thundering boom of the mines as they went off.

“Oi! You okay out there?! I’m detecting multiple explosions!”

The Titan paused a moment at the worried sound of his chief engineer. No doubt Whistle had started to pick up on the explosions on his comm array and had grown concerned when he wasn’t reporting anything. Titan Speakerman titled his head as he mentally ticked on the com, his attention brought back to the ocean as another series of mines were tossed up, “I’m good! Target practice on mines!”

“Mines!?”

“Charybdis is tossing them out of the water!”

“Now hold up-”

“Can’t talk, shooting now!”

He didn’t want to miss a single target in the air, weaving about and shooting, letting out loud shrieks all the while. It was fun. It was loud. It was so much better than patrols or sitting around quietly in the base while everyone else got to make as much noise as they wanted.

The last mine went up in smoke as he dove down towards the water where Charybdis peered up, giving a happy little clap and louder sound, like a whale mixed with some sort of deep sea monstrosity. He responded in kind with another loud roar back, feeling a pleased little trill rumble up as he noted this time the sea cam didn’t pull back. Instead Charybdis seemed to rise up a little more, making a louder cry right back.

“So you can get loud!” he teased, crossing his legs, hovering in mid-air as he regarded the semi-titan.

“When I feel like it,” Charybdis murmured, growing shy a touch, voice still soft, “You fly so elegantly,”

“Yeah?”

“I like how you fly,”

A touch of warmth rose right into his core at that and he gave a small buzz of his jets, “Well, you are super strong yourself. You could really lob those mines up and out of the water,”

Charybdis ducked down with a warble of embarrassment, “...I have to pull ships and go to the bottom of the ocean. Have to be strong to do that I guess,”

“I can’t get in the ocean, so you have me beat there,” The titan paused, drumming his fingers a bit against his leg before he glanced over his shoulder, “You want to...find somewhere to sit and uh, maybe talk?”

“Talk?” Charybdis squeaked out.

The titan speakerman raised a hand to scratch at the side of his bottom speaker lightly, a low nervous hum escaping, “I would like to get to know you better. Like, your favorite things. Not just like...always playing around, although today was really fun,”

The sea cam sunk lower in the water, back with only their lens out of the water, “No one wants to know that about me,”

“I do and kind of hard to hover and talk. I mean, you can stay in the water, just...somewhere to sit and spare my jets,”

Charybdis gave a nervous warble before ducking down under the water a moment, swimming a few little circles before coming up, “There are some rocks along the shore with deep water pools in the direction you were heading,”

“Sounds good!” The titan shifted, lifting into to the air more, “Race you!”

And then he was off like a shot, laughing all the while. Within moments though, Charybdis was below him, keeping pace with him as they hurtled forward. As they did, the titan clicked back on his com.

“What the hell is going on-”

“Was playing a game with that deep sea cam. Their name is Charybdis!”

“Throwing mines!?”

“Shooting them from a safe distance,” the titan corrected, although that was a half truth. He had taken some risks in making them explode maybe a little closer than his chief engineer would approve of, but that wasn’t something Whistle needed to know, “It was nice to be able to actually do target practice,”

He could hear Whistle let out an exasperated sound, falling to silent for a bit, “Well, as long as you are safe and doing okay,”

“Doing fine. We are going to sit and talk a bit so uh, I’ll be late,”

“Don’t trip over yourself,”

“Trust me, my foot is already in one speaker already at this point,” the titan looked down at the shadow, giving a pleased sound and wave as Charybdis looked up at him before jetting forward, “They don’t seem to mind,”

“Well, just check in when your done and don’t stay out too long, got it?”

“Yes mom,” the titan drawled sarcastically, “I’ll be in bed before eleven,”

“Holding you to that,” Whistle returned, her voice amused.

The titan clicked off his comm again, a bit more aware of when it was on and off after an unfortunate accident where some things should not have been heard. He especially didn’t want Whistle listening in to his attempts at small talk less he need to try and bury himself in the field behind the hangar again.

It was not long to the shore, but it felt so much longer or maybe he was just that eager to get the chance to actually have a normal conversation. A voice in the back of his head grumbled how he was trusting too much in a Conglomerate, but at the same time, Charybdis had never done anything to harm him, never asked about the Alliance or trying to get at secrets. They felt safe. They also were someone who didn’t know him or what he had done.

A clean slate that wouldn’t judge him or bring up the past.

The titan speakerman settled himself on one of the taller rocks pocking out of the water, getting comfortable with his feet dipped in the water. He let out a louder ping of the area, looking around to see if there was any threat before allowing himself to relax some. Charybdis surfaced at the edge, daring to bring part of their upper body out of the water as they rested their head on their folded arms.

“I think you won,” the shy cam said softly.

“Hard to tell. Guess we will have to do it again another time,”

Charybdis gave a soft hum, glancing to the side, “so what is it you wanted to talk about?”

He gave a small shrug, draping his arms over his knees as he sat there, only giving a small glance downward, “Well, what are you into? Like...hobbies I guess?” he sighed, rubbing at the back of his head, “Or uh favorite things in general. Small talk I guess,”

“Oh,”

The titan shifted, letting out a quiet laugh, “Seems a polite place to start. I…” the titan speakerman paused, squirming a bit where he at, “Before like, asking personal questions and all that. There is a lot I want to ask you that is probably not really small talk?”

“Like what?”

“I think it would be kind of rude,” the titan let out a hiss of his speakers, shaking his head, “It is fine! I can ask-”

“You can ask. I don’t mind,” Charybdis tilted their head, “I’m not...good at small talk anyways,”

The titan looked down at the sea semi-titan before looking up and towards the horizon. The sun was starting to set now, casting a golden aura over the waves. The white caps glittered like they were covered in jewels washed up from the depths to be shown to the world for a brief moment.

“How do people see you? At your home base I mean. Like, do they see you as...just one of them or like uh,” he glanced away quickly, speakers crackling with his nerves and fans revving all over again, “a monster or something?”

The question had Charybdis pulling back some, some of the lights around their head winking on and off like a blink. The titan looked away quickly, “Uh, sorry that sounds kind of rude. Could go back to hobbies or something like that,”

“No. It is fine. It really doesn’t bother me,” Charybdis said softly, looking down into the water, the little hands under their head fidgeting again, “I’m a monster to those that have heard of me. Most don’t know I exist actually as I don’t reveal myself to many people,” they traced one hand idly against the rock the titan sat on, “Only my family sees me as just Charybdis,”

The sea cam glanced up, head tilted, “...why do you ask?”

He couldn’t help a laugh at that, tired as he leaned forward, resting his elbows against his thighs, hands held together, “People see me as a monster these days. After what I did,” he could feel the tension rising into his shoulders, his speakers rumbling low, “Wanted to know if it was different for you, outside the Alliance that is,”

Charybdis did the blink of lights before tentatively reaching out, hesitating before putting a hand on the foot dangled into the water, “I don’t think you are a monster. You are very kind,”

“Would you say that if I told you I killed people that I saw as my own family?”

The semi-titan hesitated, but didn’t pull back, “Did you mean to do it?”

“Does it matter if I did or not?” the titan let out a low growl, curling in on himself a bit, “It was a parasite. I lost control of everything, like being forced to shut off for days, not knowing what was going on for days in the dark. It felt like, knowing your body was moving, hearing the world, and all it felt like was pain, screams…”

His hands inched up to clutch at his head, one hand going to back of his neck as if he could curl his fingers around the parasite that was no longer there, digging into his mind, “Then suddenly waking up, not knowing where I was, seeing how many were dead, feeling every ache and those upgrades digging into me. I don’t know. I should’ve done something,”

Charybdis let out a soft sound, giving a small rub to his foot, “That sounds so awful, but it doesn’t sound like it was your fault,”

The titan shook his head, “I get many won’t forgive me. I wouldn’t,” he let out a sigh, both hands moving now to cover over the front speaker that served as his face, “Look at me, trauma dumping when we just met,”

“I don’t mind,” the sea cam, looked down at the water, “If anything, I can relate to that. Hurting others without meaning to,”

Their hand continue to rub over the foot, the small tickles of electricity sending a rather pleasant, slow sensation up his leg that had him squirming a bit but not pulling away, “yeah?”

“I’ve hurt people accidentally too. Killed others because I was told that was my purpose. I felt so bad about it and just...just stopped talking to anyone. Stopped interacting with anyone other than my siblings. If I just kept myself deep enough in the water and never spoke again, then I wouldn’t have to be the monster that my engineer made me to be,”

The sea cam sunk into the water some, now up to their neck as the leaned against the rock, “It is very lonely to live like that,”

The titan leaned forward, raising a hand, hesitant before brushing fingers against the shoulder struts of the sea cam, “Sounds like it, but I understand that feeling. Without my chief engineer, I think I would try to do the same thing,” he gave a small laugh, “But she doesn’t let anyone wallow on her watch, so she gets me outside as much as possible,”

Charybdis let out a warble at the touch, tensing, before slowly relaxing, leaning into it as if they had never had someone give them that barest bit of touch before, “I don’t think you deserve to be isolated,” they murmured softly, “You are very kind and I think there are plenty of people in your faction and beyond who still adore you. You fight so well, fly like an eagle in the sky and,”

The sea cam paused as they sunk in the water some, their voice growing soft again, “And even talk to a sea monster like me,”

There was a whir of the titan’s fans at those words, a spark of embarrassment and warmth. Titan Speakerman looked down at the semi-titan, letting out a soft laugh, “I guess it is easy to say those things about me when we just met a few days ago,”

The titan hesitated a moment before he extended a hand, nervously, down to the sea camera, “But I don’t think you deserve to be isolated either. You seem nice too, if super shy,”

Charybdis stared at the offered hand, almost as if confused what to do with the gesture as they looked from it and up to the titan speakerman, “Huh?”

“I don’t want you to be alone either,” he felt the nerves come up as he leaned forward, hand still offered, “So, uh, maybe we can just be alone together yeah? A pair of outcasts from our own factions, a pair of monsters to everyone else,”

Charybdis shook their head, “You aren’t a monster though,”

“And neither are you,”

The sea cam let out a squeak, sinking into the water. The titan just gave a little chuckle, “So. uh...do you...want to hold hands about it?”

“Hold hands?”

“What usually happens when someone holds out a hand to you like this,”

The sea cam did the blink of lights about their head, looking now to his outstretched hand and with some hesitance they reached over. It was awkward, more as it seemed Charybdis was not sure what to do with the small act of offered comfort. They brushed fingers against his own, then the palm, resting it some there, jumping when he moved to thread their fingers together. There was a shock, small, not painful and perhaps a tad pleasant.

Charybdis looked down at their held hands, the water churning around them as their fans kicked up the water in an obvious show of embarrassment. Not that the titan speakerman had much room to talk either with how his own were kicking up a tick more as they sat there, holding hands.

“Your hand is warm,” Charybdis stammered out softly.

“Yeah? Well you got a nice hand too. Really strong feeling, but delicate,” the titan offered back with an awkward laugh.

Truly his flirting game was unmatched, but the shy sea cam still gave a flustered warble, sinking in the water regardless.

“It is nice to hold your hand,”

“Well, can hold both of them if you want,”

The titan offered the other one, leaning a touch down towards the water, “No pressure,”

Charybdis let out a laugh, shyly putting their other hand in his until they were sitting there, holding hands. The sun was lower on the horizon, casting final warm rays up against the clouds and highlighting everything with rich colors of violet, red, and orange. Charybdis tilted their head, looking up at him as they let their fingers curl more into the hold, allowing it to be a big tighter, as if enjoying the touch.

“I’ve never held hands with someone before,”

The admittance had the titan letting out a disbelieving huff of his speakers,“Never?”

The sea cam shook their head, “I’m always...worried I’ll hurt them. Shock them by accident since I can’t control it at all,”

The titan gave a hum before giving a tug, making the semi-titan squeak as they were pulled out of the water some and feeling another jolt of their shock through his frame. A few warnings went off, but the feeling wasn’t painful. An obvious tingle and a hint of pleasure, but nothing he couldn’t easily handle.

“Well,” he began, now with the semi-titan now halfway out of the water, “I haven’t noticed any of your shocks yet. Right now, I felt a tingle,”

“Oh,”

They were leaned in closer now, enough to feel the heat coming off both of them, the loud hum of fans more than obvious. Neither one of them was speaking now. It wouldn’t take much to just lean in a bit closer at this point and leave only inches between them. Maybe less than that. Some wild thought at the back of his processors wanted to do just that. Let one hand trail up under the head to press against sensitive wires there while letting heads knock together and finally give a unit version of a kiss. An innocent little brush of fingers, but if it was returned, then maybe-

The loud bang of a far off explosion had both of them startling, Charybdis squeaking and trying to duck into the water while still holding hands, nearly tugging the titan off his seat. That prompted the sea cam to let go and duck in the water while the titan let go to keep from going headfirst into the brink, clutching at his perched like a spooked cat, on the alert.

He only began to relax when his sensors picked up one of the Alliance ships in the distance doing some sort of evening training game. The titan hissed out a sigh, noting he should have remembered about that happening nearby.

“nothing to worry about,” Titan Speakerman murmured out, “Not any sort of enemy,”

“Alliance technically are my enemy,” Charybdis murmured from where they had ducked down, hiding away again, “You and Circuit are the only ones that don’t...shoot at me on sight,”

Those words had the titan giving a low rumble of distaste. Rationally, there was no reason to be upset. Charybdis was part of the Conglomerate, a neutral, but not entirely well liked faction. There were treaties in place and technically, Charybdis was skirting those by being here.

At the same time, the thought of someone just shooting at another unit that wasn’t doing anything wrong had the titan bristling just a bit. Especially as he was considering Charybdis a friend. A friend who actually understood the mixed up feelings in his head. It was easy to share how he felt weirdly enough. Enough so he had just spilled it all out awkwardly the first time they talked.

If Whistle heard about that, she was going to sigh something awful and smack him with something for being so dense.

But then, Charybdis has shared right back and left him...seen for the first time in a while.

Like finally he could start unpacking all the guilt.

“I would never shoot you on sight. I might make a lot of noise, but that isn’t the same as shooting most of the times,”

“You are very loud,”

The titan ducked his head sheepishly, “Is that a bad thing?”

Charybdis shook their head, the little hands under their head fidgeting again, “No. I think it is...cute how loud you get when happy,”

The words had a warmth rising up in the titan’s core and he couldn’t help a louder thrum that started to peak up into a small screech. He was trying to hold it back, causing the sound to be more like a squeal as he leaned forward, arched like a cat all but ready to pounce, “You think I’m cute?! I think you are cute too! In that shy way!”

Charybdis let out a warbled then, ducking under the water deep enough that only the lights of their head could be seen. The titan startled at that before sinking back, “Sorry! Was that coming on too strong?”

The response back was a series of bubbles up to the surface of the water that had the titan letting out another sound caught between concern and also how cute that was. If he was more water-tight, he might just dive in after them. Instead, he laid out flat on his perch, reaching both hands down into the water, holding them out to the shy sea camera. There was a moment of pause before Charybdis moved to hold them against, giving a gentle squeeze that had the titan speaker warbling all the louder and give another tug to lightly pull them back up to the surface.

“I don’t mean to offend you,”

Charybdis shook their head, “I’m not offended just… you think I’m cute?”

“Yeah,” the titan looked away, feeling his fans creep up a notch, “And fun to be around. And the color teal is a nice color on you,”

“Oh...red is nice on you too,”

They hadn’t let go of where they were holding hands. There was something to be said about being able to hold hands of someone that was more akin to his own size. He certainly didn’t have to painfully aware of being as gentle as possible or risk harm.

He let his grip tighten a bit and give a small pull closer. Charybdis let out a warble, still so shy, but didn’t pull away this time. Their gaze fell down to the held hands, before giving a shy glance up.

“It is...nice to talk to you. I don’t feel like I’m…” their voice dropped to a soft whisper, “Inadequate, if that makes sense. Like, I’m not just a thing,”

“Yeah?”

“You said I wasn’t a monster. You are the first one to really say that. Even my siblings believe that, as surely as they believe themselves monsters,” Charybdis gave a squeeze to the titan’s hands, “It means a lot. Probably more than I can possibly say,”

The Titan Speakerman could feel his fans humming again and words once more becoming so hard to grasp. Tongue-tied was the human term for it. That inability to focus and find the right words to say. He was stumbling, but he didn’t let go of their hands, that touch was grounding.

A sure sign of the trust being shared.

“I don’t know if I’m the best person to judge on that, given what I did,” he managed out at last, “I can’t take back what I did. I nearly killed a fellow titan, wiped out so many of my own faction,”

There was a crackle in his speakers as he looked down at their held hands, “I know they keep saying it wasn’t my fault. The therapist says it. The engineers say it. The high command says it, but what does their words matter when I can’t see myself as anything but one? That I’m the one who can’t ever say it wasn’t my fault?”

“Its hard,” Charybdis said softly, one hand letting go then, tentatively reaching up to touch the side of one speaker comfortingly, “And I can’t say I have answers. I hid away from everyone and became afraid to be seen,”

The sea camera let out a quiet laugh, “Which I think makes you so much braver than you think, because you still let others see you and I didn’t see a monster when I first saw you. I saw someone who was free, a bit loud and overly eager, but someone with a very kind core who inspires even someone like me to maybe have a little hope,”

His fans were revving hard and his head was tilted, leaned into that comforting touch against the side of his head. There was a thrum of a purr deep in his bass speakers that he wasn’t even aware of as his free hand rose up to trace larger fingers carefully against the side of Charybdis’s head.

“I must be a good actor, as I didn’t really have much hope in anything,” he leaned in a touch, feeling embarrassed and warm all at once, “until I met you. Just even playing a little chase, I felt...normal again. For a moment. Like the whole world finally decided to let me be me again,”

There was an embarrassed squeak from the sea camera, another little noises that the speaker couldn’t help but chuckle over, but again, they didn’t sink away.

Maybe just lightly leaned into his touch, the lights around their head glowing a touch brighter in the low light of the nearly vanished sun, “I think you are wonderful...when you are allowed to be yourself,”

“Loud and all?”

“Loud and all,” Charybdis said with a small laugh.

They both fell to a gentle silence with only the rush of the ocean against rocks creating any sort of din. The world felt peaceful for once, like the war was a thousand light years away on some other planet and the two of them were granted their own little place of peace. The Titan Speakerman couldn’t stop purring, letting fingers trail over Charybdis’s head, being mindful to avoid sensitive wires. More as he didn’t want to rush anything, even if a part of him wanted to do just that.

The longing for far more touch and to explore that new burning in his core that was familiar, and yet also becoming something unfamiliar all at once.

“I should get back home,” Charybdis said softly, “I’m expected back soon,”

He couldn’t help the disappointed rumble in his speakers as the sea camera pulled away, but he knew well how tight schedules could be. Like the fact he was overdue and had turned off his communications and no doubt the whole engineer staff was worried, let along the chief engineer since last he spoke to her, he had admitted to playing with explosive mines.

“Could we meet up again?” he blurted out the question as he pushed himself up into a sitting position.

Charybdis shifted, considering the question before nodding shyly, “I would like that,”

“Maybe find a place to meet? Like, here seems nice,”

“We could meet her again,” Charybdis shifted in the water, “But might be a few days,”

He bit back the disappointed noise, but knew that was also wise to do so. They still were a part of different factions. No doubt high command would raise the alarm about him sitting around talking with the enemy. Not like they were sharing secrets.

Other than the personal ones they had both kept to their cores but now confided to each other. Their little shared isolation of feeling adrift.

“three days then?” the titan speaker put forth.

“That should be fine. Near evening,” Charybdis said, starting to push out from the rock, drifting gracefully out into the froth of the ocean more, “Maybe after your patrol so you don’t get in trouble for not reporting back,”

“What are they going to do? Fire me?” The titan gave a small chuckle, “Really there is little the Alliance can do if a titan decides they want to go out,”

Charybdis looked almost confused at his words as they tilted their head, “You just...do what you want?”

“Kind of. I still care about my faction and doing my part for the war and being their defender,” he said as he hopped up to his feet, starting to rev his jets, “But I am still able to make my own choices,”

“Oh,”

The sea camera fidgeted a bit, “You really are free as a bird,”

“Maybe. If I was really free, I would want to see you tomorrow and the day after that, and the day after that,” he admitted with an embarrassed rumble.

“You would get bored seeing me so often though…”

He shook his head, “No, I don’t think I would,”

Mostly because his core was already aching at the thought of not seeing his new friend and he was not a patient titan. Not to mention something felt different. It felt like the first time he had been around Titan Cameraman to actually talk to him outside of combat. That warm buzzing feeling all warm in his chest that his chief engineer had teased was him having a crush.

It felt like that, but different. A stronger sort of buzz.

“Well, I’ll see you again,” Charybdis said, starting to duck into the water, “in three days, at this point,”

“Yeah. I look forward to it!”

He couldn’t help a loud shriek then of goodbye, excited as ever, although this time Charybdis made their own loud noise back, although it was still a touch softer than what the speaker titan was use to. He jumped into the air, hovering there a moment until he lost sight of Charybdis into the depths of the ocean, far below the waves and into parts of the world only they knew.

He felt light and heavy all at once as he headed finally back to base. The sun had set fully by the time he touched down and knowing full well he was...five hours past his ETA time to report. Already he could see a member of high command stalking towards him in a bluster with Whistle having to jog just to keep up with the long strides of the larger speaker.

“Titan! Report! And there better be a reason your com was turned off and you weren’t broadcasting your location nor responding!” the large speaker barked.

“Hard to talk to someone when you have someone else talking in your auditory receptor,” The titan said with a shrug, “And then forgot to turn it on while I was tracking something,”

The lie came easier than it probably should have as he stood there, arms crossed, looking for all purposes aloof and without a care.

The larger speaker for high command gave a dissatisfied rumble before looking at Whistle, “Does this match with the communication you had before he cut off?”

Whistle shoved her hands into her pockets and gave a shrug, “Sounds about right,”

She gave a pointed look to the titan and in return, the titan gave a subtle nod that had her posture easing more, “I maybe was talking his auditory receptor off about something when he had to go radio silent a bit. Nothing out of the ordinary,”

The High Commander let out a low growl before pointing a finger back at the titan, “I expect a full detailed report as soon as possible,”

“Of course,”

The high command gave one last growl of the speakers before he was turning on his heels and stalking away. The titan watched him go, giving a huff before moving to lower a hand to his chief engineer, “What crawled up his aft?”

“I don’t know. Our titan being late without any word?” Whistle drawled as she stepped onto his palm, “Am I going to get the full story then?”

“I don’t know, you going to tell high command if I do?”

Whistle snorted as she was lifted up to the titan’s shoulder, taking her usual seat as he headed towards the hangar, “I just covered you. I think it shows well enough where I stand on the issue,”

The Titan Speakerman gave a hum in response, “Then maybe I will once there are no prying speakers about. My official report is tracking possible skibidi naval units and it turned out to be some scramble signal we should probably make note of,”

“Of course. Just a little nothing burger,” Whistle said as she took out her tablet to start looking over his systems, “Nothing to do with the mines?”

The titan gave a small huff as he ducked down just a bit to step into the hangar and move to the bay for check in and debrief as well as system reviews before detox and cleanup, “Was just playing a game there,”

The titan gave a glance around, pausing just a moment as he saw the Executor off to the side, zoned out, although the semi-titan gave a small glance there way. It was still something to get use to having company in the large hangar, especially with Executor being a rather quiet speaker, unusual in that regard, and far too serious. The joke was Whistle had been too locked in while he had been under the influence of the parasite and it resulted in Executor’s more serious nature.

The semi-titan was not armed yet, still in his infancy as an actual unit with training well underway, but he also was not someone the titan speakerman trusted entirely. Not personally at least. Executor was more beholden to the higher ups still, more likely to side with high command over himself or the chief engineer. A kiss-ass is what titan speakerman would call him although Whistle would tell him it was more just Executor was a new unit still feeling things out.

Being a new unit was complicated enough. Being one of the first semi-titans and larger unit born of an AI getting a grasp on everything meant there was a lot for them to take in, consider, and make their opinions known. In their own, quiet, serious, somewhat blunt sort of way.

The Executor watched them for a moment before returning to the book he was reading, giving a faint grumble, “You’re back late,”

“Thanks for noticing,”

“I suppose you are going to give a report on why?”

“In progress,” Whistle said, moving to slide off the Titan’s shoulder and with a hop, jump to her station, “Doing the usual checks for a returning titan. Diagnosis first, check all systems, assess damages, then with permission, download memory banks to confirm details of already given report,”

The Executor gave a small, disinterested shrug at the explanation,“Ah,”

“Would you mind doing me a favor though and going to get some materials from the warehouse? Think I might have to do some hardcore buffering and replacing of some plating,” Whistle said casually.

The Executor was silent before giving a nod and rising to his feet, “of course Chief Engineer,”

The titan watched him leave the hangar before letting out a snort, looking down at her, “One way to get rid of the emo speaker,”

“Oh be nice. He’s practically your sibling given I had to use your code as the basis for his AI,” Whistle tutted, “I would rather you two get along than not,”

“He’s a-”

“I know you don’t like how he goes over our heads to report things to high command, but technically that is what a lot of units are suppose to do and I recall you used to be eager to yap about everything to high command if you got the chance to get praised,” Whistle swiped a finger over the screen of her tablet, “Give him time and he’ll start seeing the higher ups as having their own thumbs up their afts. He isn’t processor-dead and picks up on things quickly,”

The titan speakermand grumbled, shaking his head as he stared off, trying to be patient for the usual checks before he was free to go to recharge, “Sure,”

“So, while he’s away, mind telling me what was really happening out there? I really don’t want to be putting my codes in your memory disk to see,” Whistle said, setting aside her tablet.

The Titan Speakerman shifted, his fans giving a faint rev before he sighed, leaning in, “Met that sea camera again. Their name is Charybdis and...we kind of became friends,”

“Kind of?”

“Well, I mean, okay, we are very much friends, but, you know,” the titan waved his hand a bit, “friends who you kind of want to, sit a little closer with?”

“So like you and Titan Cameraman?” Whistle asked with a snicker.

The Titan Speakerman gave a loud huff, although his speakers kicked up, “I had a crush for all of two weeks!”

“Uh huh,”

“This is different!”

Whistle tilted her head slowly, “Oh really now?”

the Titan Speakerman gave a glance to the hangar door, making sure the Executor wasn’t going to wander in before he leaned in closer, voice as low as he could make it, “I really like them. Talking to them makes me feel...normal again,”

That had Whistle pausing a moment at her desk, her hand pausing on the blueprints she was double checking, “You don’t say,”

“They get me and they don’t care I’m awkward or don’t know what to say sometimes,” the titan fidgeted, “and unlike Titan Cameraman, I don’t know, it feels like they need me too? Like… me being me, is what they need too,”

The chief engineer looked up, silent before letting out a sigh and coming over to pat at one of his hands, “Sounds like you got the love bug bad,”

“...I didn’t open any emails that said I love you,”

Whistle snorted, “not that love bug,” she moved to jab a finger at his core, “Looks like your crush might be a touch serious this time,”

“Oh. Right,” the titan drummed his fingers against the causeway lightly, “Maybe. Yeah. I am..going to see them again. In three days. You know to catch up and hang out,”

Whistle was quiet, just giving a rub over one of his fingers with that sort of silent concern, “High command isn’t going to like you hanging out with a Conglomerate and I can’t say I’m one-hundred percent sold on all of this. Nice or not, those units have their own concerning features and quirks,”

The Titan Speakerman tensed just a touch, “Whistle-”

“I am not going to tell you what to do, going to set the record straight there,” she said firmly, “I see you as my overgrown yappie son, but you also are more than capable of making your own choices and,” the chief engineer let out a sigh, “I can tell this is good for you. Has been a while since I’ve seen you in good spirits,”

“I don’t want to worry you,”

“Being a chief engineer means accepting you worry a lot,” she gave a small laugh, “But I would rather see you happy than miserable, so guess on record, I don’t know a thing about you and your puppy love for a sea camera,”

The titan felt a hum of embarrassment again, his fans whirring a bit as he looked away, “Not a puppy crush. I just want to make them happy too. Like they make me happy,”

“Fine then. I don’t know anything about you falling hard and fast for a mermaid,” Whistle corrected, “And you are clear to go clean up and get to recharge and I mean recharge,”

The chief engineer pointed to her neck as she gave him a look, “I better see you plugged in proper or I’m having Executor put it in and be your emotional support speaker,”

“No,”

“You already share a hangar now,”

“And I don’t need him being a judgmental body pillow,” the titan drawled, “Bad enough you gave him the top bunk,”

“He’s lighter and that bed was built quickly so rather not risk your weight breaking it and crushing down on the new semi-titan. Pretty sure high command would throw a fit if he got damaged so soon after his online date,”

“I’m sure you got warranty on him,”

Whistle snorted, “Ha. Didn’t know you were getting a sense of humor like Optical,” she gave a shooing motion, “now get going off to recharge. You got a long day tomorrow running training simulations with the other titans,”

“Right,”

He slid out of the diagnosis seat and headed into the decontamination room, painstakingly getting undressed. With all the hardware and offensive weaponry strapped to him, it was always a hassle to get stripped down. However, it was required before every recharge, just to make sure all the ports were blown out of debris and everything cleaned up. Being a titan meant it was rather easy to get dirty from just stepping outside for a minute and with all the delicate circuitry and systems that went into a titan’s body, cleanliness was a top priority.

The hot spray of water was nice, followed by the automatic buffers moving into action to get scratches out and apply wax to maintain the finish from rust. He still hated when the air machines started off, always giving an unhappy rubble as they blasted out his ports and making him jump. If it was just warm water and soap with the massaging pressure of the larger spinning washers, he would have been fine.

The air was always the worse, especially at his neck ports. Without fail it had him making noises and trying to reach back to cover it as it felt too much like a parasite trying to get in.

Eventually the decontamination dinged and he was permitted to leave, grabbing the titan size towel to dry off her and there before getting into the recharge clothes. More simple clothing, less thick and more lose to allow more comfortable ventilation while at rest.

He flopped into his berth, once more pausing before letting out a sigh and picking up the recharge cord. He stared at it for a long minute before rolling over and tentatively raising one hand to feel about at the ports near his neck and resisting the urge to flinch away as he put the recharge cord in. the feeling of the cord going in had him writhing a bit, nearly ripping it back out with a sound of panic before forcing himself to calm down and just roll over, arms crossed over his chest, and try to get some sleep and ignore the feeling.

If he was recharged, he would perform better tomorrow in the training and the higher ups would be more pleased. That would keep them off his back during the long patrols.

Which meant more time to spend with Charybdis without anyone really noting oddities in his return times.

Three days for from now he could see them again. He just had to be patient.

He let himself start to power down, even as hie let out a loud wistful sigh.

Three days was going to feel like years, of that he was more than certain.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

NASA Turns Off Science Instrument to Save Voyager 2 Power

The mission has been working to postpone the shut-off as long as possible. Four other instruments aboard the interstellar spacecraft continue to operate.

Mission engineers at NASA have turned off the plasma science instrument aboard the Voyager 2 spacecraft due to the probe’s gradually shrinking electrical power supply.

Traveling more than 12.8 billion miles (20.5 billion kilometers) from Earth, the spacecraft continues to use four science instruments to study the region outside our heliosphere, the protective bubble of particles and magnetic fields created by the Sun. The probe has enough power to continue exploring this region with at least one operational science instrument into the 2030s.

Mission engineers have taken steps to avoid turning off a science instrument for as long as possible because the science data collected by the twin Voyager probes is unique. No other human-made spacecraft has operated in interstellar space, the region outside the heliosphere.

The plasma science instrument measures the amount of plasma (electrically charged atoms) and the direction it is flowing. It has collected limited data in recent years due to its orientation relative to the direction that plasma is flowing in interstellar space.

Both spacecraft are powered by decaying plutonium and lose about 4 watts of power each year. After the twin Voyagers completed their exploration of the giant planets in the 1980s, the mission team turned off several science instruments that would not be used in the study of interstellar space. That gave the spacecraft plenty of extra power until a few years ago. Since then, the team has turned off all onboard systems not essential for keeping the probes working, including some heaters. In order to postpone having to shut off another science instrument, they also adjusted how Voyager 2’ voltage is monitored.

Monitoring Results

On Sept. 26, engineers issued the command to turn off the plasma science instrument. Sent by NASA’s Deep Space Network, it took 19 hours to reach Voyager 2, and the return signal took another 19 hours to reach Earth.

Mission engineers always carefully monitor changes being made to the 47-year-old spacecraft’s operations to ensure they don’t generate any unwanted secondary effects. The team has confirmed that the switch-off command was executed without incident and the probe is operating normally.

In 2018, the plasma science instrument proved critical in determining that Voyager 2 left the heliosphere. The boundary between the heliosphere and interstellar space is demarcated by changes in the atoms, particles, and magnetic fields that instruments on the Voyagers can detect. Inside the heliosphere, particles from the Sun flow outward, away from our nearest star. The heliosphere is moving through interstellar space, so at Voyager 2’s position near the front of the solar bubble, the plasma flows in almost the opposite direction of the solar particles.

The plasma science instrument consists of four “cups.” Three cups point in the direction of the Sun and observed the solar wind while inside the heliosphere. A fourth points at a right angle to the direction of the other three and has observed the plasma in planetary magnetospheres, the heliosphere, and now, interstellar space.

When Voyager 2 exited the heliosphere, the flow of plasma into the three cups facing the Sun dropped off dramatically. The most useful data from the fourth cup comes only once every three months, when the spacecraft does a 360-degree turn on the axis pointed toward the Sun. This factored into the mission’s decision to turn this instrument off before others.

The plasma science instrument on Voyager 1 stopped working in 1980 and was turned off in 2007 to save power. Another instrument aboard Voyager 2, called the plasma wave subsystem, can estimate the plasma density when eruptions from the Sun drive shocks through the interstellar medium, producing plasma waves.

The Voyager team continues to monitor the health of the spacecraft and its available resources to make engineering decisions that maximize the mission’s science output.

[princess-of-the-corner]

Y'know a stupid meta thing that bugs me in Heart Hunter is that, for that Akumas power set, the Bee is actually a really really bad pick to and the Dragon would have been a better power to use

(Not saying Maribug picking Kagami was a good call, but the Dragon was a more tactical call for that Akuma)

Like, Venom requires the user to get close enough to make physical contact to their target to paralyze them

Heart Hunter is a floating monstrosity with 360 degrees of vision and a power that shoots out of both faces as soon as they detect any love. That's like, the worst Akuma to bring in an ally who needs to make physical contact for their power

Dragons powers, Wind and Lightning especially, would have been much better at combating Heart Hunter

Would it?

Like the Dragon would be harder to hit, but they /do/ need to get up close to the Akuma to defeat it. (In /theory/ the Dragon could use its' power to dodge and grab the Akumatied item, but if that were the case they'd be using it on every single Akuma because it'd be OP(and REALLY would've helped with MQ), so just.... assume they can't hold physical objects in wind/water/lightning form to nerf the power? Same reason the Horse doesn't just open a portal on the Akumatized Item to grab it.)

I don't really think the Bee was the best choice either, but it wouldn't be worse than the Dragon.

I think you would've been better off getting a Hero who could either get close without being seen, or provide a distraction to allow someone else to get close.

I think the best choice would've been the Mouse, which could either be tiny and sneak(having many chances as there's many of them), or they could rush the Akuma and there's too many to hit so a few of them would get through to hit the Akuma.

The Fox is a good second as creating an Illusion to mask whatever Hero is actually running for the Akuma is on the table.

[rimurufan18]

Chapter 8: Impact of the Orc Lord

New skills

Unique skill: Eye of the Ancients

Allows the user x100 thought acceleration, more efficient analyses of things around them, 360-degree vision, view of their hp % and magicule %, status effect durations, as well as detect spiritual energy and concealed presences.

Unique skill: Copy Machine

A more efficient copycat can take in more at a time and requires far fewer magicules to fill in the gaps for skills.

Part 1: Our First Felled Demon Lord

After consuming his former master, Geld began evolving into a Demon Lord Seed. He was on the verge of reaching a form that could potentially defeat me. However, my comrades and I were determined to stop his army from claiming more souls.

"You were on the cusp of greatness, but it's time to bring you down a peg.” I said, slashing at him with all my might. My blade grazed his arm, leaving a deep gash. I quickly drank a few drops of his blood, hoping to gain an advantage. But before I could react, a blade was aimed directly at my forehead. Time seemed to slow down, allowing me to dodge the attack by a hair's breadth. What just happened? I knew I had thought acceleration, but he appeared almost motionless. "Notice: Through the ingestion of the Demon Lord Seed, conditions have been met. The Unique skill Magic Eyes has combined with the Extra skill Sense Spiritual Energy to create the Unique skill Eye of the Ancients, and the Unique skill Copycat has combined with the Unique skill Starved to create the Unique skill Copy Machine. Obtained Demon Lord Seed." So that's the answer.

"Well... it seems we're both Demon Lord Seeds now. But you won't win," I declared, my voice filled with determination. I unleashed a barrage of attacks, rapidly cutting him up with decay and caustic flames to prevent his regeneration. The battlefield was engulfed in a chaotic dance of destruction.

Geld retaliated with a powerful swing of his blade, aiming for my head. Before I could react, it pierced my skull, but I managed to move just in time to avoid a fatal blow, but the force of the attack sent me crashing into the ground. Pain surged through my body as I struggled to regain my footing. My mimicked skull shattered, and I felt a true sense of terror like never before. The fear threatened to consume me, but I refused to let it overpower my will to survive.

With a surge of determination, I healed my shattered skull, nursing the throbbing headache. Shaky legs carried me back onto the battlefield, where I faced Geld once again. Adrenaline coursed through my veins as I prepared to unleash my next attack. But before I could make a move, a searing pain shot through me. I finally understood this was reality, not some video game or anime, he wouldn't wait for me to recover. I fell to my knee, witnessing my now severed leg, and saw him preparing for a killing blow. I roll to the left, barely dodging his blade and grounding myself with thoughts of Rimuru, I regenerate my leg and get back into the fight.

Adrenaline coursing through my veins, my eyes start glowing as I activate my eye of ancients. I remember one move that I haven't tested in combat yet. I fire multiple corrosive bullets at the Orc Disaster, blowing holes all throughout his body, and like the abomination he is, he just regenerates. “What the hell even are you?!!” I shout as I realize that he is now staving off the corrosion and flames and regenerating through them.

The orc lord grins evilly and takes a bite of something in his hand. “You can call me what you want, but you are making me stronger.”

“Y-you didn't… You couldn't have.” I say as the horror unfolds, in his hand is my disembodied leg, and he's eating it like a snack. I go to chop off his head with my scythe but it's far too late, he grabs me out of the air and takes a bite out of my shoulder. I scream at the top of my lungs, the pain wracks my body as he rips off a piece of my flesh with his teeth. I try to escape his grasp but he puts rot on me. Slowly my consciousness fades as I succumb to the pain of my injuries. In one last ditch effort, I use thought communication. “ Rimuru!! Help me!! ” I say to Rimuru then see a blinding blue streak hurtling to me and the orc lord.

"ROBIN!" Rimuru's familiar voice echoed through the battlefield as he descended from the sky, his aura radiating power. He unleashed his predator skill on the orc lord, halting my imminent demise and absorbing the orc lord. The ground trembled beneath us as the battle reached its climax. I could feel as the Orc Lord became no more, his soul disappearing as Rimuru absorbs his body. Held tries to escape but he's too far gone and fades away as Rimuru consoles him in his dying moments.

I tried to speak, but the words eluded me aswas still in a state of shock, golden slime oozed from my shoulder and side where he took big bites out of me. The fear still lingered in my mind, but the pain was all I could focus on, urging me to give up, wanting me to lose all hope. But I clung to my will to survive, my determination to see another day, and my unwavering desire to be with Rimuru.

Rimuru gently scooped up my body as I remained frozen. I didn't know what to do. If I needed air to survive, I would have suffocated by now. Crushed by my own body giving up on me. However, Rimuru's voice became my ray of hope. "Let's celebrate this victory, so you better not die on me." Confidence resonated in his voice, but there was also a hint of worry.

His words grounded me, and I managed to speak. "It'll take more than that to take me down for good." I said, trying to convince myself as much as Rimuru. "Let's have a feast, with plenty of booze. I bet we can have Kaijin and the dwarves get some for us, if they haven't already started brewing it." I attempted to distract myself from the fear and pain with humor, though it brought little results.

"I'm sure I saw them drinking some once or twice.” he chuckles. “Let's do this!" Rimuru replied with determination in his voice. The battle may have been won, but the journey was far from over. Together, we would face whatever challenges lay ahead, united in our unwavering resolve.

Part 2: FINALLY

The scene unfolded in the heart of revelry, a magnificent feast set before them and spirits flowing freely. Laughter danced on the breeze, an infectious symphony that echoed the joy of the festivities. Even Rimuru, known for his composed demeanor, had succumbed to the allure of the drinks, much to the amusement of the crowd.

On the outskirts, the once-hostile orcs observed, their apprehension slowly giving way to a glimmer of hope. The banquet had brought together former enemies, now united by a shared optimism for a brighter future. The pain and fear of the battle, dulled greatly by the alcohol and comradery of the moment.

Carrying the lively atmosphere, I swayed my way over to Geld One's son, a mischievous grin playing on my lips. A friendly slap on his back, and I playfully suggested, "How about a name, buddy?" I chuckle as I don't give him a second to reply. "From now on, you're Geld, You admired your father, didn't you? Either way, it's a good name for you." I say having forgotten how dreadful the battle was, was it due to the alcohol or did I suppress it, I may never know, but right now I was happy.

Geld's eyes widened in surprise, gratitude warming his expression. "Lady Robin... I don't even know what to say. Does this mean my people have a chance?"

"Absolutely!" I exclaimed, fueled by the spirit of the moment. "Just swear your loyalty to Rimuru and me, and your people will find mercy."

Geld's voice trembled with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "Yes, Lady Robin."

"Perfect!" I chirped, my enthusiasm unabated as I made my way back to Rimuru, who was now clearly under the influence. Giving him a playful pat on the back, I quipped, "How's it going, Rimuru?"

His response was a merry drawl, his words melting into each other. "Livin' the dream~ or somethin' like it~"

Raising an eyebrow, I couldn't help but tease, "And how much have you had to drink?"

"Only... two~" Rimuru replied, his words elongated with a playful slowness.

"Wow, lightweight!" I laughed, realizing he was in no condition to navigate his way home. "Looks like you're staying at my place tonight."

With a bit of effort, I hoisted Rimuru onto my back and set off, leading us to my house as Rimuru's house was locked and Rimuru was mysteriously asleep, however, my inebriated mind thought nothing of it. Gently settling him onto my bed, I intended to leave, but Rimuru's grip on my wrist changed the course of events.

He pulled me down, flipping our positions as he lay atop me. His voice carried a longing tone as he whispered, "Robin~ I've been waiting so long to say this... to tell you that I lo-"

Swiftly, I maneuvered, cutting him off and straddling him, and confessed my own emotions, unburdening myself of the feelings that had silently grown between us. "No~ It's my turn to speak~ I love you, Rimuru~ I've been feeling this way for a while~"

His blushing face reflected a mixture of emotions: surprise, hope, and a touch of disbelief. "Robin... you mean it?" he ventured, a note of hope threading through his words.

I respond by burying my face in his chest, I sought closeness, the exhaustion of the night finally catching up with me. Great sage let Rimuru sleep as well, silently approving of me and my love for Rimuru. The lightweight sleeps under me, as I lovingly hold him tightly, hoping and praying that when I wake up he is still here as I drift off to sleep.

Part 3: Time For Payback, After Rimuru of Course

As the morning sun bathed us in its gentle, golden light, I relished the warmth of Rimuru's body pressed against mine. Our hearts danced in perfect harmony, and the world beyond our embrace faded into obscurity, leaving just the two of us in this tender moment.

Resting on Rimuru's chest, I gracefully rose to meet his affectionate gaze. A warm smile adorned my face as I drew nearer. "Good morning, Rimuru," I whispered softly, leaning in closer.

Rimuru, now free from the haze of the previous night, blushed and stuttered, "G-good morning, Robin."

With a tender smile, I gently brushed a stray strand of hair from Rimuru's face and murmured, "Last night was truly beautiful, wasn't it?"

Rimuru's eyes glistened with affection as he nodded, his breath quickening with emotion. "It was, Robin," he admitted, his words slightly tangled. "B-but perhaps we should s-start our d-mmph?!"

I silenced him with a loving kiss, our lips meeting in a soft, lingering embrace that solidified the love that had blossomed between us. Smiling, I say “I agree, let's start our day~”

Rimuru is too flustered for words and just nods in response. We get ready for the day, wearing similar outfits. Rimuru wore his blue coat, white fluffy scarf, black pants, and blue fur lined boots, and I wore the darker colors of a black scarf, black coat, black pants, and black fur lined boots.

“Looking good, cutie~” I say to Rimuru.

“T-thank you, R-Robin.” Rimuru replies flustered.

Wait… we never officially stated what we are. “Hey Rimuru… Are we like… together now?”

He blushes and has to think for a moment before he finally replies. “Yes, we're… together.” he says softly, too embarrassed to speak loudly.

I wrap my arms around him in a loving embrace. “Thank you, my cutie~”

He makes a quite adorable squeak of fluster and pouts. “I'm not cute, I'm a really cool and strong dude.”

“That I can pick up like a little doll and play with.”

“Ok, maybe I'm a little cute… b-but you're cuter!” he retorts while blushing.

I laugh, “Thank you, now let's set off and start our day, I have a few people to talk to.” I say in a sinister tone.

Rimuru nods and we part ways for the day. I go out to first find Soui while Rimuru goes to name the orcs.

I find Soui and Benimaru conversing over some tea. I approach in a friendly manner so as to not raise suspicions of my anger at Soui. Why am I mad at Benimaru too though? I guess Rimuru does think him to be a hot guy, so that does make him competition in a way… eh, I'll beat him up too.

“Heya, how are my Kijen doing?” I ask in a comeraderous tone, belying my hatred of them.

“We’re doing great, lady Robin, how about you?” Benimaru replies in a chipper tone.

“Well, I'm doing perfect, Rimuru and I are a thing now, so isn't that neat?” I brag. “But I was thinking, since you've gotten your names, I haven't fought either of you, so how about a little friendly spar?” I suggest with mischief painted on my face.

“Oh… uh… lady Robin, are you sure? I mean, you must be a little hungover from last night, right? Also… congrats on the relationship… I guess.” Benimaru says nervously.

I grin evilly. “Absolutely sure.”

“Ok then, but if you lose, don't get mad.” Benimaru replies.

“Oh? You think I might lose?” I laugh. “No no, I'll fight you both two on one purely because I need a quick and easy win right now.”

The Pair’s eyes widen in shock and Benimaru attempts to ask, "What are you trying to-"

But his words are interrupted as I swiftly seize both Benimaru and Soui by their collars, dragging them towards the training grounds. Their protests are muffled, and their attempts to free themselves are futile. My laughter cuts through the tension. "By the way, the loser will have the 'pleasure' of indulging in Shion’s cooking for an entire week, so give it your all, boys~" I tease, a smirk playing on my lips.

The mere mention of Shion's cooking instills a deep-seated dread in the pair. As soon as I release them onto the field, they immediately assume their battle positions. Soui mutters, "With those stakes, winning is our only option."

"We'll overcome this. Give it everything, and together, we have a chance." Benimaru states, his voice steely with renewed determination.

A playful giggle escapes my lips. "Whatever helps you sleep at night." I retort, lowering my hood. The power of the Eye Of The Ancients activates, my irises radiating an intense blue. My scythe materializes in my hand. "I'm waiting." I taunt.

Benimaru draws his blade while Soui melds into the darkness. Relying on my heightened perception, I parry Benimaru's incoming strike with my scythe. Simultaneously, I swing the end of the shaft, catching Soui squarely on his face. The impact knocks him unconscious, and his body hurtles hundreds of feet, crashing into a distant tree. Seeing his comrade downed so easily, Benimaru's bravado falters. "Mercy?" he asks, hope slowly diminishing in his eyes.

I scoff, "Coward." Swiftly, I deliver a kick to his midriff, following it with a slashing motion that severs his sword arm.

Tossing him a healing potion, I remark, "Freshen up, you're a mess." Contemplating my actions, I concede, "Perhaps I did go a bit overboard. No need to suffer Shion’s dishes."

To my surprise, gratitude replaces the pain in their eyes. "We promise to train harder, Lady Robin. Next time, we'll present a true challenge!" Benimaru pledges, cradling his mended arm.

I raise an eyebrow, bemused. "Well, I look forward to it." Struggling to maintain my composure, I add, "For now, I have to check on Rimuru." Then walk to find Rimuru.

I find Rimuru engrossed in the task of naming the orcs, his expression a picture of boredom. To speed things up and perhaps to steal a few moments with him, I initiate another line, eager to assist my newfound love interest.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHo1yKt2wpw919BjCB4uVvxqv2rJZW31zc4vRv7TsLE188Lg/viewform

[brownbiochemist]

Face Blur Technology in Public Surveillance: Balancing Privacy and Security

As surveillance technology continues to evolve, so do concerns about privacy. One solution that addresses both the need for public safety and individual privacy is face blur technology. This technology automatically obscures individuals’ faces in surveillance footage unless there’s a legitimate need for identification, offering a balance between security and personal data protection.

Why Do We Need Face Blur Technology?

Surveillance systems are increasingly used in public spaces, from streets and parks to malls and airports, where security cameras are deployed to monitor activities and prevent crime. However, the widespread collection of images from public spaces poses serious privacy risks. Personal data like facial images can be exploited if not properly protected. This is where face blur technology comes in. It reduces the chances of identity theft, unwarranted surveillance, and abuse of personal data by ensuring that identifiable information isn’t exposed unless necessary. Governments, businesses, and institutions implementing face blur technology are taking a step toward more responsible data handling while still benefiting from surveillance systems (Martinez et al., 2022).

Key Technologies Behind Face Blur

Face blur technology relies on several key technologies:

Computer Vision: This technology enables systems to detect human faces in images and videos. Using machine learning algorithms, cameras or software can recognize faces in real-time, making it possible to apply blurring instantly.

Real-life example: Google’s Street View uses face blur technology to automatically detect and blur faces of people captured in its 360-degree street imagery to protect their privacy.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI plays a crucial role in improving the accuracy of face detection and the efficiency of the blurring process. By training models on large datasets of human faces, AI-powered systems can differentiate between faces and non-facial objects, making the blurring process both accurate and fast (Tao et al., 2023).

Real-life example: Intel’s OpenVINO toolkit supports AI-powered face detection and blurring in real-time video streams. It is used in public surveillance systems in places like airports and transportation hubs to anonymize individuals while maintaining situational awareness for security teams.

Edge Computing: Modern surveillance systems equipped with edge computing process data locally on the camera or a nearby device rather than sending it to a distant data center. This reduces latency, allowing face blurring to be applied in real-time without lag.

Real-life example: Axis Communications’ AXIS Q1615-LE Mk III surveillance camera is equipped with edge computing capabilities. This allows for face blurring directly on the camera, reducing the need to send sensitive video footage to a central server for processing, enhancing privacy.

Encryption: Beyond face blur, encryption ensures that any data stored from surveillance cameras is protected from unauthorized access. Even if footage is accessed by someone without permission, the identity of individuals in the footage remains obscured.

Real-life example: Cisco Meraki MV smart cameras feature end-to-end encryption to secure video streams and stored footage. In conjunction with face blur technologies, these cameras offer enhanced privacy by protecting data from unauthorized access.

How Does the Technology Work?

The process of face blurring typically follows several steps:

Face Detection: AI-powered cameras or software scan the video feed to detect human faces.

Face Tracking: Once a face is detected, the system tracks its movement in real-time, ensuring the blur is applied dynamically as the person moves.

Face Obfuscation: The detected faces are then blurred or pixelated. This ensures that personal identification is not possible unless someone with the proper authorization has access to the raw footage.

Controlled Access: In many systems, access to the unblurred footage is restricted and requires legal or administrative permission, such as in the case of law enforcement investigations (Nguyen et al., 2023).

Real-life example: The Genetec Omnicast surveillance system is used in smart cities and integrates privacy-protecting features, including face blurring. Access to unblurred footage is strictly controlled, requiring multi-factor authentication for law enforcement and security personnel.

Real-Life Uses of Face Blur Technology

Face blur technology is being implemented in several key sectors:

Public Transportation Systems: Many modern train stations, subways, and airports have adopted face blur technology as part of their CCTV systems to protect the privacy of commuters. For instance, London's Heathrow Airport uses advanced video analytics with face blur to ensure footage meets GDPR compliance while enhancing security.

Retail Stores: Large retail chains, including Walmart, use face blur technology in their in-store cameras. This allows security teams to monitor activity and reduce theft while protecting the privacy of innocent customers.

Smart Cities: In Barcelona, Spain, a smart city initiative includes face blur technology to ensure privacy in public spaces while gathering data to improve city management and security. The smart cameras deployed in this project offer anonymized data to city officials, allowing them to monitor traffic, crowd control, and more without compromising individual identities.

Journalism and Humanitarian Work: Media organizations such as the BBC use face blurring technology in conflict zones or protests to protect the identities of vulnerable individuals. Additionally, NGOs employ similar technology in sensitive regions to prevent surveillance abuse by oppressive regimes.

Public Perception and Ethical Considerations

Public perception of surveillance technologies is a complex mix of support and concern. On one hand, people recognize the need for surveillance to enhance public safety, prevent crime, and even assist in emergencies. On the other hand, many are worried about mass surveillance, personal data privacy, and the potential for abuse by authorities or hackers.

By implementing face blur technology, institutions can address some of these concerns. Studies suggest that people are more comfortable with surveillance systems when privacy-preserving measures like face blur are in place. It demonstrates a commitment to privacy and reduces the likelihood of objections to the use of surveillance in public spaces (Zhang et al., 2021).

However, ethical challenges remain. The decision of when to unblur faces must be transparent and subject to clear guidelines, ensuring that this capability isn’t misused. In democratic societies, there is ongoing debate over how to strike a balance between security and privacy, and face blur technology offers a middle ground that respects individual rights while still maintaining public safety (Johnson & Singh, 2022).

Future of Face Blur Technology

As AI and machine learning continue to evolve, face blur technology will become more refined, offering enhanced accuracy in face detection and obfuscation. The future may also see advancements in customizing the level of blurring depending on context. For instance, higher levels of obfuscation could be applied in particularly sensitive areas, such as protests or political gatherings, to ensure that individuals' identities are protected (Chaudhary et al., 2023).

Face blur technology is also expected to integrate with broader privacy-enhancing technologies in surveillance systems, ensuring that even as surveillance expands, personal freedoms remain protected. Governments and businesses that embrace this technology are likely to be seen as leaders in ethical surveillance practices (Park et al., 2022).

Conclusion

The need for effective public surveillance is undeniable in today’s world, where security threats can arise at any time. However, the collection of facial images in public spaces raises significant privacy concerns. Face blur technology is a vital tool in addressing these issues, allowing for the balance between public safety and individual privacy. By leveraging AI, computer vision, and edge computing, face blur technology not only protects individual identities but also enhances public trust in surveillance systems.

References

Chaudhary, S., Patel, N., & Gupta, A. (2023). AI-enhanced privacy solutions for smart cities: Ethical considerations in urban surveillance. Journal of Smart City Innovation, 14(2), 99-112.

Johnson, M., & Singh, R. (2022). Ethical implications of face recognition in public spaces: Balancing privacy and security. Journal of Ethics and Technology, 18(1), 23-37.

Martinez, D., Loughlin, P., & Wei, X. (2022). Privacy-preserving techniques in public surveillance systems: A review. IEEE Transactions on Privacy and Data Security, 9(3), 154-171.

Nguyen, H., Wang, T., & Luo, J. (2023). Real-time face blurring for public surveillance: Challenges and innovations. International Journal of Surveillance Technology, 6(1), 78-89.

Park, S., Lee, H., & Kim, J. (2022). Privacy in smart cities: New technologies for anonymizing public surveillance data. Data Privacy Journal, 15(4), 45-61.

Tao, Z., Wang, Y., & Li, S. (2023). AI-driven face blurring in public surveillance: Technical challenges and future directions. Artificial Intelligence and Privacy, 8(2), 123-140.

Zhang, Y., Lee, S., & Roberts, J. (2021). Public attitudes toward surveillance technology and privacy protections. International Journal of Privacy and Data Protection, 7(4), 45-63.

[dzthenerd490]

File: Assassin's Creed - Spear of Leonidas

Warning! The following is to only be seen by O5 council members and Administrative Staff. If you are not of Level 5 Clearance, you will be exterminated by order of the O5 council!

SCANNING

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CHECKING RANK DATA OF VIEWER

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RANK OF VIEWER CONFIRMED

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NO SIGNS OF TAMPERING DETECTED

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VIEWING OF SCP-ABP APPROVED

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SCP#: ABP

Code Name: Spear of Leonidas

Object Class: Al'amal Al'akhiru

Special Containment Procedures: SCP-ABP is to be contained at Site-AP, a Fallout site for K Class Apocalyptic Scenarios. It is to be stored in the emergency armory located in level 5, the lowest and most secure level of the Site. Within the armory, SCP-ABP is locked in a weapon case with explosive, elemental, and experimental dimensional protection plating. The case can only be opened with biometric scanners that only recognize Level 5 and Level 6 Foundation Clearance Staff. The armory and by extension the Site is to only be opened when a K Class Apocalyptic Scenario event occurs. As such anyone who even tries to enter Site-AP when no such event has occurred or without the proper clearance, they are to be targeted under Protocol "Legacy's Downfall", there will be no exceptions.

Description: SCP-ABP was originally a spear with a broken staff but was upgraded back in 451 BC with technology from Species of Interest: The ISU. The upgrades were done by Person of Interest: Kasandra and resulted in SCP-ABP having numerous anomalous abilities including:

- Increased Strength of User.

- Increased Speed of User.

- Instant Vitality and Health Regeneration of User.

- Coating itself and the User's Secondary Weapons with Poison.

- Coating itself and the User's Secondary Weapons with Fire.

- Giving Projectile Weapons such as Arrows and Bullets of the User increased speed, accuracy, and power.

- Turn Itself and User Invisible.

- Gives User the Ability to see Past Events.

- Allows User to see all 360 Degrees around them.

- Increases Dodging, Movement, and Overall Agility of User.

- Allows User to Manipulate the Weather to a Limited Degree.

Because SCP-ABP is made with ISU technology it can increase in power as it bonds with its user and of course collect the memories of those who use it. With this in mind, MTF Commander Garret Kite of Mobile Task Force Omega-45 "Street Samurai" was originally to be given SCP-ABP. However, this was denied by the O5 Council as it's a weapon powerful enough to turn anyone into a Keter Class threat if used incorrectly even by accident. Instead, it was agreed that SCP-ABP should be stored in the armory of Site-AP. Site-AP is an emergency Fallout Site for a scenario where earth face an overwhelming threat. It is the ultimate fallout shelter built to ensure the Foundation's survival. Created with the strongest and most powerful natural and anomalous materials in the world and enhanced with anomalous items that prevent any kind of threat from infiltrating the Site.

SCP-ABP was discovered in 2018 during a successful expedition of one of the ISU vaults without the assistance of MTF Athena-1. This area was declared high priority by the O5 Council after reviewing several archives surrendered by the Assassins Creed before the dissolving of their group. This is where the Foundation encountered Person of Interest: Kassandra who died after surrendering SCP-[data expunged by order of the O5 Council] along with SCP-ABP. Foundation researchers who had been studying ISU tech were able to quickly discover the power SCP-ABP possessed through archives and testing. It was agreed it’s best members of MTF Athena-1 are not to be made aware SCP-ABP is in Foundation custody.

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SCP: Horror Movie Files Hub

[fromdevcom]

As the remote work trend accelerates, keeping corporate secure servers accessible yet protected is essential. TSplus Advanced Security delivers robust cybersecurity for Windows servers with an all-in-one solution.  It comprehensively secures remote access infrastructure against modern threats through features like Homeland Protection, Brute Force Defender and Ransomware Protection.  When paired with TSplus Remote Access, administrators gain complete control over which users connect from where and when coupled with powerful protection blocking over 368 million known hacker IP addresses. What is TSplus Advanced Security? TSplus Advanced Security is a robust cybersecurity software that protects Windows servers and remote access infrastructure.  It provides 360-degree protection against modern threats like ransomware, brute force attacks and malware. Key features include Homeland Protection to restrict access by country, Brute Force Defender to block login attempts, and Ransomware Protection to detect and prevent infections.  When paired with TSplus Remote Access, admins can securely manage remote connections and work resources across distributed teams. Its comprehensive security toolbox safeguards remote servers cost-effectively. How Does it Work?  TSplus Advanced Security functions through straightforward installation and management. Admins download and install the software on Windows servers needing protection. The admin console also provides real-time monitoring of security events and the status of protection measures. Logs automatically refresh to keep admins informed.  When combined with TSplus Remote Access, additional controls are gained to define user access based on location, time, group or device. This centralized visibility and customization level empowers admins to efficiently lock down infrastructure while supporting remote team connectivity and productivity. Why TSplus Advanced Security? Here are some benefits you need to know: Secure your Remote Work infrastructure. With more employees working remotely, your servers face increased risk if they are properly safeguarded. TSplus Advanced Security shields these remote access points from modern cyberattacks through a unified security toolkit that facilitates distributed productivity through remote user management. Fine-tune security to your needs TSplus enables administrators to customize each layer of protection precisely for their environment through an intuitive admin console. Easily configure features such as network restrictions by country, device approval, and working hours to dictate how and when remote staff connect securely. Maximize security. Minimize cost. As a one-time purchase with no ongoing fees or subscriptions, TSplus Advanced Security delivers around-the-clock protection affordably. Its perpetual licenses also ensure long-term value for budgets compared to temporally licensed alternatives that require periodic renewal payments over time. Key Features Here are some features you need to know: Homeland Protection Restrict where users connect by defining allowed countries and networks. Administrators enhance security by whitelisting specific IP addresses with server access while excluding risks from unknown locations. Brute Force Defender Block automated login attempts from password-cracking programs. This feature prevents hackers and scanners from repeatedly trying standard credentials combinations to exploit servers. Access is locked if too many failed attempts occur. Global IP Management Centrally manage IP block and allowlists streamlined for simplified oversight. Blocked and approved addresses are visible together for quick reference and control over individual IPs or entire blocks/ranges. Working Hours Tailor availability around work schedules. Limit times employees connect remotely, such as regular business days and hours only. After-hours access is thus revoked for added control and potential compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions Which edition is included in the free trial? The free trial allows you to fully use the Ultimate Edition of TSplus Advanced Security for 15 days before purchase. Are the licenses permanent? Yes, TSplus offers permanent licenses for their software. You can use Advanced Security indefinitely without worrying about subscriptions or renewals. Can I get support to deploy my TSplus software? Yes, support is available to help with deploying TSplus products. Their knowledge base, guides and staff can assist if needed. How to get certified for TSplus Advanced Security? Complete the online Advanced Security course through the TSplus Academy to obtain your official certification in their cybersecurity solution. Can I talk to the TSplus sales team? Of course, the sales team can discuss any unique requirements you have. Contact them through the website for assistance. Can I become a partner? Yes, working with TSplus as a partner allows you to offer their security software to your clients as part of your service offerings. Conclusion Choosing a complete yet cost-effective security platform is critical as businesses adapt to remote and hybrid work models.  TSplus Advanced Security provides administrators with extensive tools to manage permissions and lock down servers while supporting a distributed workforce.  Its comprehensive capabilities and 24/7 updates ensure robust protection without compromising usability or the bottom line. By maximizing both security and accessibility, TSplus is ideal for organizations seeking to empower remote operations securely and seamlessly.

[peterbrusso]

Defender Confidence Series Video 5 Your First Line of Defense from Peter Brusso on Vimeo.

�️ Situational Awareness: Your First Line of Defense - See Trouble Before It Sees You The best self-defense fight is the one that never happens. The best courtroom case is the one you never face. Today we're teaching you simple techniques to spot trouble before it finds you—and why this skill alone can make you nearly untouchable to predators.

� What You'll Learn: ✅ The 3-Zone Awareness System: Immediate, Intermediate, and Distant ✅ The Baseline Principle: How to quickly spot what doesn't belong ✅ The Phone Trap: Why smartphones make you an easy target (and how to fix it) ✅ The Approach Test: Simple techniques to determine if you're being followed ✅ The Confidence Connection: How awareness creates a deterrent feedback loop

� THE MODERN THREAT: Your smartphone is broadcasting "EASY TARGET" to every predator within 100 yards. When you're staring at that screen, you've essentially put a sign on your back.

� THE SIMPLE FIX: The "Lift and Look" technique: Every 15 seconds, lift your head and do a quick 360-degree scan. See who's around, where they're going, what's changed.

� THE 3-ZONE SYSTEM:

Zone 1 (0-6 feet): Immediate/Touching distance - If threats reach here unnoticed, options are limited Zone 2 (6-25 feet): Intermediate/Decision distance - Time to assess and decide Zone 3 (25+ feet): Distant/Observation distance - Early detection zone

� PATTERN RECOGNITION: Every environment has a baseline—what normal looks like. Your job: establish the baseline quickly, then notice what doesn't fit. Trust that "off" feeling.

� THE APPROACH TEST:

Stop Test: Stop suddenly—do they stop too? Turn Test: Change direction—do they follow? Speed Test: Speed up/slow down—do they match?

� THE BEAUTIFUL TRUTH: Good situational awareness creates confidence. Confidence deters predators. When you're clearly aware and alert, you don't fit their victim profile.

� Building on our series foundation: Video 3: Appropriate Force vs. Maximum Force Video 4: The Courtroom Test

� DEFENDER CONFIDENCE SERIES:

Video 1: Why Attackers Choose Victims ✓ Video 2: The Wheelchair Warrior Principle ✓ Video 3: Appropriate Force vs. Maximum Force ✓ BONUS: The Brisbane Mugging Story ✓ Video 4: The Courtroom Test ✓ Video 5: Situational Awareness ← YOU ARE HERE Coming Next: Video 6 - The UFC Fighter Effect

�️ Get Your Defender: PDWS.Biz #SituationalAwareness #PersonalSafety #DefenderConfidence #SelfDefense #BodyLanguage #PersonalProtection #SafetyTips #CrimePrevention #DefenderSeries #StreetSmart #SelfDefenseTraining #Awareness

⚠️ SAFETY REMINDER: Situational awareness is about intelligence, not paranoia. The goal is confident awareness that deters threats while allowing you to enjoy life safely.

[semiconductorlogs]

Global Ultrasonic Radar Market : Share, Size, Trends by 2025-2032

MARKET INSIGHTS

The global Ultrasonic Radar Market was valued at US$ 1.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 3.4 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.0% during the forecast period 2025-2032. While the U.S. holds the largest market share at USD 310 million in 2024, China is expected to witness accelerated growth with projected revenues reaching USD 420 million by 2032.

Ultrasonic radar systems utilize high-frequency sound waves to detect objects and measure distances through echolocation technology. These systems consist primarily of transmitters, receivers, and signal processors, finding applications in automotive parking assistance, collision avoidance, and autonomous navigation across various industries. The market is segmented into PA (Parking Assist) and APA (Automatic Parking Assist) ultrasonic radar systems, with APA systems projected to grow at a faster 9.2% CAGR through 2032.

The market expansion is driven by increasing ADAS adoption in vehicles, with over 45% of new cars globally now equipped with ultrasonic sensors. However, technological challenges in harsh weather conditions remain a restraint. Key industry players including Valeo, Bosch, and Denso collectively hold 58% market share, with recent developments focusing on higher frequency (80+ kHz) sensors for improved accuracy in autonomous vehicle applications.

MARKET DYNAMICS MARKET DRIVERS

Growing Demand for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) to Accelerate Market Expansion

The ultrasonic radar market is experiencing robust growth due to the increasing adoption of ADAS in modern vehicles. With over 60% of new vehicles globally now equipped with some form of ADAS, ultrasonic sensors have become indispensable for parking assistance and collision avoidance systems. These radar systems provide accurate short-range detection, typically between 30 cm to 500 cm, making them ideal for low-speed maneuverability. Automakers are increasingly integrating multiple ultrasonic sensors around vehicle perimeters to enable 360-degree obstacle detection, driving component demand. The expansion of autonomous vehicle testing programs across North America, Europe, and Asia further amplifies this need for reliable proximity sensing solutions.

Expansion of Industrial Automation to Fuel Ultrasonic Radar Adoption

Industrial sectors are rapidly adopting ultrasonic radar technology for material handling, robotic positioning, and conveyor belt monitoring applications. The technology’s immunity to environmental factors like dust, smoke, or lighting conditions makes it particularly valuable in manufacturing environments. Recent advancements in signal processing algorithms have enhanced measurement accuracy to sub-millimeter levels, enabling precise robotic control in automated assembly lines. With the global industrial automation market projected to maintain steady growth, ultrasonic radar solutions are becoming critical components in smart factory implementations across automotive, electronics, and logistics sectors.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Signal Interference Issues to Hamper Market Progress

While ultrasonic radar offers numerous advantages, the technology faces persistent challenges with signal interference in crowded electromagnetic environments. Multiple ultrasonic sensors operating simultaneously can create signal crosstalk, leading to false readings or detection failures. This limitation becomes particularly pronounced in complex industrial settings where numerous automated systems operate in close proximity. Current solutions involving time-division multiplexing or frequency modulation add complexity and cost to system implementations. Additionally, environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations and humidity variations can impact signal propagation characteristics, requiring sophisticated compensation algorithms to maintain accuracy.

Other Challenges

Limited Detection Range The effective operating range of ultrasonic radar typically falls below 5 meters, restricting its applications compared to competing technologies like LiDAR or microwave radar. This range limitation prevents ultrasonic solutions from being used in highway-speed collision avoidance systems where longer detection distances are required.

Acoustic Noise Sensitivity High ambient noise levels in industrial environments can mask ultrasonic signals, reducing system reliability. Although signal processing techniques help mitigate this issue, they increase computational requirements and power consumption.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Competition from Alternative Sensing Technologies to Limit Market Penetration

Ultrasonic radar systems face increasing competition from emerging sensing technologies, particularly in premium automotive applications. While ultrasonic sensors dominate parking assistance applications, their market share in forward collision warning systems is being eroded by camera-based vision systems and millimeter-wave radar. These alternative technologies offer superior performance in critical parameters such as detection range, angular resolution, and resistance to weather conditions. Automotive OEMs are increasingly adopting sensor fusion approaches that combine multiple technologies, potentially reducing the number of ultrasonic sensors per vehicle. This industry shift toward multi-modal sensing architectures could constrain the growth potential for standalone ultrasonic radar solutions.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Emerging Applications in Mobile Robotics to Drive Future Market Growth

The rapid expansion of service robotics and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) presents significant growth opportunities for ultrasonic radar manufacturers. Autonomous mobile robots require robust proximity sensing for navigation and obstacle avoidance in dynamic environments. Emerging applications in healthcare robots, warehouse logistics automatons, and last-mile delivery drones are fueling demand for compact, low-power ultrasonic sensing solutions. The development of advanced phased-array ultrasonic radar systems capable of beam-forming and 3D object classification opens new possibilities for robotic perception systems. With the global service robot market expected to maintain strong growth, ultrasonic radar technologies are well-positioned to capture a substantial portion of this expanding application space.

Smart City Infrastructure Development to Create New Revenue Streams

Municipalities worldwide are deploying intelligent transportation systems as part of smart city initiatives, creating opportunities for ultrasonic radar applications. Innovative implementations include ultrasonic vehicle detection at intersections, parking space monitoring, and traffic flow analysis. These applications benefit from the technology’s reliability and lower cost compared to alternative sensing methods. The increasing focus on pedestrian safety in urban environments is driving demand for ultrasonic crosswalk monitoring systems that can detect vulnerable road users in all weather conditions. As smart city projects gain momentum globally, ultrasonic radar solutions are emerging as cost-effective components for various infrastructure monitoring applications.

ULTRASONIC RADAR MARKET TRENDS Increasing Automotive Safety Requirements Driving Market Growth

The ultrasonic radar market is witnessing robust growth due to stringent automotive safety regulations and the rising adoption of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). With over 60% of new passenger vehicles now equipped with parking assistance systems incorporating ultrasonic sensors, demand for high-performance ultrasonic radar solutions has surged. Emerging innovations such as 4D imaging radar are pushing the boundaries of object detection accuracy, enabling vehicles to detect obstacles with millimeter-level precision. Furthermore, the integration of AI-powered signal processing algorithms has enhanced the capability of ultrasonic radar systems to distinguish between static and dynamic objects in challenging environments.

Other Trends

Expansion in Autonomous Robotics

The proliferation of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and drones across industrial and commercial applications is creating new opportunities for ultrasonic radar technology. Unlike traditional optical sensors, ultrasonic systems perform reliably in diverse lighting conditions, making them ideal for warehouse automation and last-mile delivery drones. Recent market data indicates that 35% of commercial drones now incorporate ultrasonic obstacle avoidance systems, demonstrating the technology’s crucial role in collision prevention. As robotics manufacturers seek more cost-effective sensing solutions, ultrasonic sensors are becoming preferred alternatives to expensive LiDAR systems for short-range applications.

Miniaturization and Energy Efficiency Advancements

Technological breakthroughs in semiconductor manufacturing are enabling the development of smaller, more power-efficient ultrasonic radar solutions. The latest generation of MEMS-based ultrasonic sensors consumes 40% less power while offering improved detection ranges compared to conventional piezoelectric counterparts. This evolution is particularly significant for battery-powered IoT devices and wearable applications where size and energy constraints dictate design parameters. Concurrently, advancements in beamforming techniques are allowing single ultrasonic sensor units to replace multi-sensor arrays in certain applications, reducing system complexity and cost without compromising performance.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE Key Industry Players

Automotive Giants and Tech Innovators Drive Ultrasonic Radar Market Competition

The global ultrasonic radar market features a mix of established automotive suppliers and emerging technology specialists, creating a dynamic competitive environment. Valeo and Bosch currently dominate the market, collectively holding approximately 35% revenue share in 2024. Their leadership stems from decades of automotive sensor development and strong OEM relationships across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Meanwhile, Denso Corporation has been gaining significant traction through its advanced parking assist systems, while Murata Manufacturing brings unique miniaturization expertise from the electronics sector. These companies are driving innovation in compact radar designs, particularly for drone and robotics applications where size and weight are critical factors.

The competitive intensity is further heightened by Chinese manufacturers like Audiowell Electronics and Hangsheng Electronics who are rapidly expanding their production capacity. These regional players are fueling price competition while simultaneously improving technological capabilities, particularly in the cost-sensitive Asian markets.

Strategic movements in the sector include Continental AG’s 2023 acquisition of a specialized sensor firm to boost its ultrasonic technology portfolio. Similarly, Whetron Electronics recently announced a joint development program with two major Chinese automakers, indicating how partnerships are becoming crucial for market penetration.

List of Key Ultrasonic Radar Companies Profiled Valeo (France) Bosch (Germany) Nicera (Japan) Murata Manufacturing (Japan) Denso Corporation (Japan) Audiowell Electronics(Guangdong)Co.,Ltd. (China) Continental AG (Germany) Coligen (China) Corp. (China) Hangsheng Electronics (China) Whetron Electronics (Taiwan) Tung Thih Electron (Taiwan) Shunhe (China) Longhorn Auto (China) Segment Analysis: By Type

PA Ultrasonic Radar Segment Leads Due to Cost-Effectiveness and Automotive Integration

The market is segmented based on type into:

PA Ultrasonic Radar Subtypes: Single-beam, Multi-beam, and others APA Ultrasonic Radar By Application

Automotive Segment Dominates Market Share Owing to Rising Demand for Parking Assistance Systems

The market is segmented based on application into:

Automotive Drone Robot Other By Frequency Range

40-100kHz Range Holds Major Share Due to Optimal Balance of Range and Resolution

The market is segmented based on frequency range into:

20-40kHz 40-100kHz Above 100kHz Regional Analysis: Ultrasonic Radar Market

North America The North American ultrasonic radar market is experiencing steady growth, driven by strong demand from the automotive sector, particularly for parking assistance and collision avoidance systems. The United States leads the region, accounting for a significant share of the market revenue, supported by stringent safety regulations and the rapid adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has further spurred demand by allocating funds for smart mobility solutions. Key players like Bosch and Continental are investing in next-generation ultrasonic sensing technologies to meet evolving industry needs. However, high development costs and competition from LiDAR-based systems pose challenges to market expansion.

Europe Europe remains a critical hub for ultrasonic radar innovation, with Germany and France at the forefront. The region benefits from strict automotive safety standards under the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), which mandates collision avoidance and parking assistance features. European automakers are integrating ultrasonic radars with AI-powered systems for autonomous driving, creating new market opportunities. Environmental regulations also encourage manufacturers to enhance energy efficiency in sensor production. While market penetration is high, competition from alternative sensing technologies and economic uncertainties in Eastern Europe pose growth constraints.

Asia-Pacific As the fastest-growing ultrasonic radar market, the Asia-Pacific region is powered by China, Japan, and South Korea’s thriving automotive industries. China dominates both production and consumption, with automakers leveraging ultrasonic sensors for cost-effective ADAS solutions. Emerging applications in robotics and drones further boost demand, particularly in industrial automation. However, pricing pressures from regional low-cost manufacturers challenge profitability for global suppliers. India’s expanding auto sector presents significant opportunities, though infrastructure limitations slow widespread adoption. The shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to drive ultrasonic radar integration in battery management and charging systems.

South America South America’s ultrasonic radar market is nascent but growing, fueled by Brazil and Argentina’s efforts to modernize automotive safety standards. Local manufacturers prioritize affordability, leading to increased adoption of ultrasonic radar systems as a cost-efficient alternative to LiDAR. Economic volatility and supply chain disruptions, however, limit the scope of technological advancements. The aftermarket segment plays a crucial role due to slower OEM adoption, though government initiatives promoting smart mobility could accelerate market expansion in the coming years.

Middle East & Africa The Middle East & Africa region shows moderate growth potential, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia investing in smart city projects and autonomous vehicle trials. Ultrasonic radar adoption is increasing in fleet management and logistics applications. However, low vehicle electrification rates and limited regulatory frameworks hinder broader market penetration. Africa’s market remains underdeveloped, though urbanization and infrastructure investments in select countries could create future opportunities.

Report Scope

This market research report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global and regional Ultrasonic Radar markets, covering the forecast period 2024–2032. It offers detailed insights into market dynamics, technological advancements, competitive landscape, and key trends shaping the industry.

Key focus areas of the report include:

Market Size & Forecast: Historical data and future projections for revenue, unit shipments, and market value across major regions and segments. The global Ultrasonic Radar market was valued at USD million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD million by 2032. Segmentation Analysis: Detailed breakdown by product type (PA Ultrasonic Radar, APA Ultrasonic Radar), application (Automotive, Drone, Robot, Others), and end-user industry to identify high-growth segments and investment opportunities. Regional Outlook: Insights into market performance across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, including country-level analysis where relevant. The U.S. market is estimated at USD million in 2024, while China is projected to reach USD million. Competitive Landscape: Profiles of leading market participants including Valeo, Bosch, Nicera, Murata, Denso, Audiowell Electronics, and others, covering their product offerings, R&D focus, and recent developments. Technology Trends & Innovation: Assessment of emerging technologies in ultrasonic sensing, integration with ADAS systems, and evolving industry standards. Market Drivers & Restraints: Evaluation of factors driving market growth along with challenges, supply chain constraints, regulatory issues, and market-entry barriers. Stakeholder Analysis: Insights for component suppliers, OEMs, system integrators, investors, and policymakers regarding the evolving ecosystem and strategic opportunities.

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[hrtechpub]

AI and Automation in Managing Gig and Contract Workers

In today’s rapidly evolving workforce, the gig economy has emerged as a dominant force. From ride-sharing drivers to freelance designers, contract software developers to remote customer support agents, businesses are increasingly relying on gig and contract workers to meet demand with agility. But managing this flexible, decentralized workforce comes with unique challenges—especially in areas like onboarding, performance tracking, payments, and compliance.

Enter AI and automation—the transformative technologies reshaping how businesses operate. By leveraging artificial intelligence and intelligent automation tools, companies can more efficiently manage gig and contract workers, offering streamlined operations, real-time insights, and a superior work experience.

Here are five key ways AI and automation are revolutionizing gig and contract workforce management:

1. Smart Talent Sourcing and Matching

One of the first challenges businesses face is finding the right talent at the right time. Traditional methods of recruiting are time-consuming and ineffective for fast-moving, short-term gig roles.

AI-powered platforms use natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to analyze job requirements and automatically match them with candidate profiles.

Systems can predict a candidate’s fit based on historical performance data, skillsets, location, and availability.

Automated talent pools continuously learn and improve, helping reduce time-to-hire and optimize workforce utilization.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr already use intelligent matching algorithms, but enterprise-grade tools like WorkMarket and Field Nation take it a step further with real-time analytics and custom business rules.

2. Automated Onboarding and Compliance

Onboarding gig workers traditionally involves a lot of manual paperwork, training modules, and compliance checks. This can be inefficient and error-prone when dealing with large numbers of temporary workers.

Automation streamlines onboarding, from identity verification to e-signatures and document submission.

AI compliance tools can flag missing documents, detect regulatory risks (e.g., misclassification of contractors), and adapt onboarding processes to meet legal requirements in different regions.

Training programs can be personalized using AI to ensure that workers are up to speed quickly, reducing ramp-up time.

This is particularly important in regulated industries like healthcare or finance, where incorrect onboarding can result in legal penalties.

3. Performance Monitoring and Workforce Analytics

Gig workers typically operate outside the traditional office structure, making it difficult to track performance and engagement. This is where AI-driven analytics tools shine.

Real-time dashboards track worker productivity, task completion rates, customer feedback, and even behavioral patterns.

Natural language processing can be used to analyze qualitative data such as reviews or chat transcripts.

Predictive analytics help managers identify potential issues (e.g., high churn risk or performance dips) and take proactive steps.

By integrating data across platforms (e.g., CRM, task management, payments), businesses can get a 360-degree view of their gig workforce.

4. Automated Scheduling and Workflow Management

One of the major operational headaches in gig work is coordinating schedules, task assignments, and communication across distributed teams.

AI-powered scheduling tools automatically assign tasks based on worker availability, location, and skill match—optimizing efficiency and minimizing downtime.

Chatbots and virtual assistants can handle routine queries, send reminders, and update workers in real-time.

Automated workflows ensure that work moves seamlessly between teams or stages, reducing administrative overhead.

These systems are especially useful for industries like delivery, field services, and customer support, where quick coordination is essential.

5. Streamlined Payments and Financial Management

Timely and accurate compensation is a key factor in gig worker satisfaction. But managing variable pay rates, multiple currencies, and tax documentation can be complex.

Automated payroll systems calculate earnings, taxes, bonuses, and reimbursements with minimal human intervention.

AI tools can detect payment anomalies, fraud risks, or compliance issues before they become problems.

Workers can access financial dashboards to track income, expenses, and tax deductions—improving transparency and trust.

Platforms like Deel and Remote have started to integrate AI into global contractor payment solutions, making compliance and cross-border payments more scalable.

Conclusion: The Future of Flexible Workforce Management

As the gig economy continues to grow, organizations must embrace modern tools to manage a flexible workforce effectively. AI and automation are not just enhancing efficiency—they're becoming essential for compliance, worker satisfaction, and business agility. Companies that invest in intelligent workforce management systems will not only save time and money but also position themselves as leaders in the future of work.

By enabling smarter decision-making, predictive capabilities, and streamlined operations, AI is helping businesses unlock the full potential of gig and contract workers—one algorithm at a time.

To learn more, visit HR Tech Pub.

[djiusa]

Why an iPhone Gimbal and Video Stabilizer Are Game-Changers

Smartphone cameras—especially iPhones—have come a long way. With each generation, we get better sensors, improved computational photography, and more control in our hands. But while iPhones can now shoot in 4K, offer cinematic mode, and handle low light impressively, there’s still one challenge that’s hard to beat without external gear: stability.

Enter the gimbal for iPhone—a tool that has completely changed the game for mobile videography. Whether you’re a travel vlogger, content creator, or just someone who values smooth, professional-looking footage, an iPhone gimbal offers more than just steady shots—it’s an extension of creative freedom.

Why Stability Still Matters in the Age of AI

It’s easy to assume digital stabilization can do it all. And to a degree, iPhones do offer impressive onboard stabilization, especially in models like the iPhone 13 Pro and beyond. But even then, you’re dealing with digital correction—something that crops your image and works best in moderate scenarios.

When you’re filming while walking, chasing motion, or rotating the camera creatively, digital tools fall short. That’s where a dedicated video stabilizer truly shines. It allows for real-time correction of shaky hand movements without degrading your video quality. And unlike bulky rigs of the past, today’s gimbals are lightweight, intuitive, and smartphone-ready.

What Makes a Gimbal for iPhone a Worthy Investment?

A gimbal isn’t just a fancy handle—it’s a three-axis motorized system designed to counteract hand tremors and jerky movement. So, when you tilt, pan, or move around, the gimbal reacts in real-time to keep the camera level and motion buttery smooth.

But the advantages don’t stop at stabilization:

Creative angles: Gimbals enable tracking shots, crane-style lifts, low-angle perspectives, and 360-degree pans—something handheld shooting just can’t manage with finesse.

Auto-tracking and face detection: Many iPhone gimbals include companion apps that let your phone track your face or a subject. Great for solo creators or live streamers.

Button control and zoom: Rather than tapping your screen, you can control your iPhone’s camera from the gimbal grip itself, including zooming and switching modes.

These features unlock professional techniques with minimal setup, giving you studio-level versatility right from your pocket.

The Gimbal vs. Traditional Video Stabilizer Debate

Some might ask, “What’s the difference between a video stabilizer and a gimbal?” The answer lies in how they function.

A traditional video stabilizer is usually mechanical. It relies on counterweights and physical balance to minimize motion. It doesn’t use motors or software and is often more compact and affordable. They’re still useful in some filmmaking circles—especially if you don’t want to rely on battery-powered gear.

However, for iPhone users, a gimbal is typically the better option. It’s specifically designed for smartphones, integrates seamlessly with apps, and offers precise motorized control that mechanical rigs can’t match. Plus, the ease of use, smart features, and compact design make it the go-to for everyday creators.

When Should You Use an iPhone Gimbal?

Vlogging on the move: Walking through a busy city? A gimbal keeps your face in focus and your steps looking cinematic.

Travel and nature videos: Smooth pans of landscapes, waterfalls, and temples instantly elevate your storytelling.

Short films and music videos: Professional-level movement with minimal gear.

Live streaming and virtual tours: Stay centered and in-frame while your audience gets a steady experience.

And the best part? Most iPhone gimbals now fold into compact, travel-friendly shapes and can be deployed in seconds.

Final Thoughts

The combination of an iPhone gimbal and a reliable video stabilizer is no longer optional—it’s essential for anyone who wants to make videos that truly stand out. Even if you’re not a filmmaker or influencer, having access to smooth, visually pleasing footage enhances everything from family vacation videos to school projects.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets, documenting your startup journey, or filming a DIY tutorial, don’t let shaky footage hold you back. Explore how a gimbal for iPhone can transform your mobile content—one smooth shot at a time.

[atplblog]

Price: [price_with_discount] (as of [price_update_date] - Details) [ad_1] Product Description IP66 Waterproof Conbre ultraXR PTZ wifi camera can be widely used in home, front-door, porch, garage, farms, barn, garden, stairs, backyard, etc, no need to worry about extreme weather. Support 355° Pan & 90° Tilt, Cover More Corners Conbre ultraXR PTZ Outdoor Surveillance Camera helps you expand your field of view. It pans and tilts to capture a 360-degree field of view with 24/7 recording, making it easy to cover large areas and protect your property. Full Color Night Vision with Adjustable Mode Once a moving object is detected at night, this wifi outdoor cameras for home security will automatically switch to Full color mode to see the face at a glance. Set cruise points Set present points in the camera and enable automatic patrol on those points. This way this camera will cover more than you expected. Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 14 x 14 x 9 cm; 580 g Date First Available ‏ : ‎ 22 November 2023 Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Conbre Enterprise ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CNTGCGGV Item model number ‏ : ‎ UltraXR Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Conbre Enterprise Packer ‏ : ‎ Conbre Enterprise Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 580 g

Item Dimensions LxWxH ‏ : ‎ 14 x 14 x 9 Centimeters Net Quantity ‏ : ‎ 1.00 count Included Components ‏ : ‎ Adapter [Remote Control and View Everywhere] : Once the light bulb camera connect WIFI, the living stream can be accessed via iOS/Android mobile phone, you can control it on the APP. It support multi cameras display at the same time and multi users share. [Multiple Device Support] : Support Multiple Device and Multi-user Download the V380 Pro APP on your mobile phone, laptop, tablet or computer. Support ios, android and windows operating systems, you can share the camera with your family. [Full HD and Night Vision ] : 1080P high-definition, 90° wide-angle advanced glass lens combined with 355° horizontal & 120° vertical rotation range create a complete 360° coverage. Cover the entire room no blind spots, remote control pan&tilt, just sliding screen to see wherever you want in the phone screen. 10pcs infrared LEDs automatically turn on in low light and in darkness , the night vision can up to 10 meters. [Motion Detection and Two Way Audio] : This bulb security camera will push alert notification to your cellphone real time when it detects movement, you can set the time that needs to be detected as you like. This bulb surveillance camera allows you to communicate with the camera side whenever you want, convenient and practical. [Supports upto 128GB sd card] : The TF card slot allows you to insert a 128GB Micro TF card, which means you can save images and videos for later viewing. Meanwhile, the large memory allows you to record everything you want without missing a moment. [ad_2]

[globosetechnology]

Data Warehousing in Banking

In the banking sector, managing vast amounts of transactional and customer data is a daily challenge. Data warehousing in banking provides a centralized solution to store, process, and analyze this data, enabling better decision-making, regulatory compliance, and customer service. At Global Techno Solutions, we’ve implemented data warehousing solutions to empower banks, as showcased in our case study on Data Warehousing in Banking. As of May 26, 2025, these solutions are more critical than ever in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

The Challenge: Centralizing and Analyzing Banking Data

A regional bank approached us on May 15, 2025, with a pressing issue: their data was scattered across multiple legacy systems, making it difficult to generate unified reports for decision-making. They faced delays in identifying fraud, struggled with regulatory reporting, and couldn’t effectively cross-sell services due to a lack of customer insights. Their goal was to implement a data warehousing solution to centralize data, improve analytics, and ensure compliance with banking regulations like GDPR and Basel III.

The Solution: A Robust Data Warehouse for Banking

At Global Techno Solutions, we designed a data warehousing solution to address their challenges. Here’s how we transformed their operations:

Data Integration: We consolidated data from disparate sources—transactional systems, CRM platforms, and loan databases—into a centralized data warehouse using ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes powered by Apache NiFi.

Real-Time Analytics: We enabled real-time data processing with tools like Apache Spark, allowing the bank to generate instant reports on customer behavior and transaction patterns.

Fraud Detection: Machine learning models within the data warehouse analyzed historical and real-time data to flag suspicious activities, reducing fraud incidents.

Regulatory Compliance: We implemented automated reporting features to ensure compliance with GDPR, Basel III, and other regulations, minimizing manual effort and audit risks.

Customer Insights: The data warehouse provided a 360-degree view of customers, enabling personalized product recommendations, such as tailored loan offers, based on spending habits.

For a detailed look at our methodology, explore our case study on Data Warehousing in Banking.

The Results: Smarter Decisions, Better Outcomes

The data warehousing solution delivered significant benefits for the bank:

60% Faster Reporting: Unified data enabled quicker generation of financial and regulatory reports.

30% Reduction in Fraud Losses: Real-time analytics and ML models identified fraudulent transactions early.

20% Increase in Cross-Selling Revenue: Personalized offers based on customer insights boosted sales.

Improved Compliance: Automated reporting reduced audit preparation time by 40%.

These outcomes highlight the power of data warehousing in banking. Learn more in our case study on Data Warehousing in Banking.

Why Data Warehousing Matters in Banking

As of May 2025, data warehousing is essential for banks, offering benefits like:

Centralized Data: A single source of truth improves accuracy and accessibility.

Enhanced Analytics: Real-time insights drive better risk management and customer engagement.

Regulatory Compliance: Automated reporting ensures adherence to strict banking regulations.

Scalability: Data warehouses handle growing data volumes, supporting long-term growth.

At Global Techno Solutions, we specialize in creating data warehousing solutions that empower banks to stay competitive and compliant.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Data Warehousing in Banking

The future of data warehousing in banking includes advancements like AI-driven predictive analytics, cloud-native warehouses for scalability, and integration with blockchain for secure transactions. By staying ahead of these trends, Global Techno Solutions ensures our clients remain leaders in financial innovation.

For a comprehensive look at how we’ve helped banks leverage data warehousing, check out our case study on Data Warehousing in Banking. Ready to transform your banking operations with data warehousing? Contact Global Techno Solutions today to learn how our expertise can support your goals.

[santoshhospitals]

The Role of Critical Care in Saving Lives from Sepsis

Sepsis is a silent killer that can escalate rapidly, causing organ failure and even death if not treated in time. Often misunderstood as just an infection, sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that demands prompt and specialized care. At Santosh Hospitals, recognized as the Best Critical Care Hospital in Ghaziabad, we are equipped with advanced ICU facilities and a skilled critical care team to handle complex cases like sepsis with precision and compassion.

In this blog, we’ll explore how critical care plays a life-saving role in the treatment of sepsis, what symptoms to look for, and why choosing the best hospital in Ghaziabad makes all the difference.

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. When your immune system overreacts to an infection, it can trigger widespread inflammation, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. It can start from infections in the lungs, urinary tract, skin, or gastrointestinal system.

While anyone can develop sepsis, it is more dangerous in:

Elderly patients

People with weakened immune systems

Patients with chronic illnesses

Children and infants

Symptoms of Sepsis to Watch Out For

Time is critical in sepsis management. Recognizing the signs early can save a life. Seek emergency help if you notice:

High fever, chills, or hypothermia

Rapid heart rate

Difficulty breathing

Confusion or disorientation

Low blood pressure

Decreased urine output

Skin that feels cold, pale, or mottled

If these symptoms appear, visit the Best Emergency Care Hospital in Ghaziabad – Santosh Hospitals – without delay.

The Critical Care Approach to Sepsis at Santosh Hospitals

Sepsis patients often require intensive monitoring and advanced support, which is where critical care units (ICUs) play a vital role. Our Doctors for Critical Care in Ghaziabad are trained to handle complex, life-threatening infections with the help of:

1. Advanced Monitoring

Continuous tracking of vital signs, blood oxygen levels, heart function, and organ activity to detect changes immediately.

2. Intravenous Antibiotics

Timely administration of high-grade IV antibiotics is key to controlling the infection and preventing its spread.

3. Fluid Resuscitation & Blood Pressure Support

Fluids and vasopressors help restore circulation and improve organ perfusion.

4. Mechanical Ventilation & Oxygen Support

In severe cases, respiratory support is provided to manage lung function and oxygen delivery.

5. Kidney Support (Dialysis)

Sepsis often impairs kidney function. Our ICU team uses dialysis machines to support or replace kidney activity if needed.

6. Multidisciplinary Coordination

Our critical care team works closely with infectious disease experts, nephrologists, pulmonologists, and cardiologists to ensure 360-degree care.

At Santosh Hospitals, the Best Critical Care Hospital in Ghaziabad, we provide tailored care plans for each sepsis patient to increase survival and speed up recovery.

Expertise Matters – Choose the Best in Ghaziabad

Our reputation as the Best Emergency Care Hospital in Ghaziabad is built on our:

Rapid response ICU team

State-of-the-art intensive care units

24x7 emergency and trauma services

Experienced doctors for critical care in Ghaziabad

Proven track record in managing high-risk infections

From immediate diagnosis to post-recovery rehabilitation, Santosh Hospitals offers a continuum of care that prioritizes safety, speed, and outcomes.

Post-ICU Recovery: What Comes Next?

Recovery from sepsis doesn’t end at discharge. Patients often face physical and emotional challenges like fatigue, weakness, anxiety, or memory loss. That’s why our critical care unit works with physiotherapists and nutritionists to create a holistic recovery plan.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Sepsis can often be prevented through simple practices like:

Prompt treatment of infections

Good hygiene and wound care

Staying updated with vaccinations

Managing chronic diseases effectively

Educating families and caregivers is an important part of our mission at Santosh Hospitals, the Best Hospital in Ghaziabad for infection-related emergencies and intensive care.

Sepsis is a serious condition, but with early detection and expert care, survival rates can significantly improve. Critical care isn’t just treatment—it’s a life-saving intervention. That’s why choosing the Best Critical Care Hospital in Ghaziabad can make all the difference.

If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of sepsis, don’t delay. The critical care experts at Santosh Hospitals, the Best Hospital in Ghaziabad, are ready 24x7 to provide emergency support, advanced care, and hope for recovery.