#automation summit

[digiworkforce]

Digital Workforce is proud to be a sponsor of UiPath’s AI-Powered Automation Summit in Helsinki on November 26, 2024. Learn more

[jcmarchi]

Eric Schmidt: AI misuse poses an ‘extreme risk’

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/eric-schmidt-ai-misuse-poses-an-extreme-risk/

Eric Schmidt: AI misuse poses an ‘extreme risk’

Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, has warned that AI misuse poses an “extreme risk” and could do catastrophic harm.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Schmidt cautioned that AI could be weaponised by extremists and “rogue states” such as North Korea, Iran, and Russia to “harm innocent people.”

Schmidt expressed concern that rapid AI advancements could be exploited to create weapons, including biological attacks. Highlighting the dangers, he said: “The real fears that I have are not the ones that most people talk about AI, I talk about extreme risk.”

Using a chilling analogy, Schmidt referenced the al-Qaeda leader responsible for the 9/11 attacks: “I’m always worried about the Osama bin Laden scenario, where you have some truly evil person who takes over some aspect of our modern life and uses it to harm innocent people.”

He emphasised the pace of AI development and its potential to be co-opted by nations or groups with malevolent intent.

“Think about North Korea, or Iran, or even Russia, who have some evil goal … they could misuse it and do real harm,” Schmidt warns.

Oversight without stifling innovation

Schmidt urged governments to closely monitor private tech companies pioneering AI research. While noting that tech leaders are generally aware of AI’s societal implications, they may make decisions based on different values from those of public officials.

“My experience with the tech leaders is that they do have an understanding of the impact they’re having, but they might make a different values judgement than the government would make.”

Schmidt also endorsed the export controls introduced under former US President Joe Biden last year to restrict the sale of advanced microchips. The measure is aimed at slowing the progress of geopolitical adversaries in AI research.  

Global divisions around preventing AI misuse

The tech veteran was in Paris when he made his remarks, attending the AI Action Summit, a two-day event that wrapped up on Tuesday.

The summit, attended by 57 countries, saw the announcement of an agreement on “inclusive” AI development. Signatories included major players like China, India, the EU, and the African Union.  

However, the UK and the US declined to sign the communique. The UK government said the agreement lacked “practical clarity” and failed to address critical “harder questions” surrounding national security. 

Schmidt cautioned against excessive regulation that might hinder progress in this transformative field. This was echoed by US Vice-President JD Vance who warned that heavy-handed regulation “would kill a transformative industry just as it’s taking off”.  

This reluctance to endorse sweeping international accords reflects diverging approaches to AI governance. The EU has championed a more restrictive framework for AI, prioritising consumer protections, while countries like the US and UK are opting for more agile and innovation-driven strategies. 

Schmidt pointed to the consequences of Europe’s tight regulatory stance, predicting that the region would miss out on pioneering roles in AI.

“The AI revolution, which is the most important revolution in my opinion since electricity, is not going to be invented in Europe,” he remarked.

Prioritising national and global safety

Schmidt’s comments come against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny over AI’s dual-use potential—its ability to be used for both beneficial and harmful purposes.

From deepfakes to autonomous weapons, AI poses a bevy of risks if left without measures to guard against misuse. Leaders and experts, including Schmidt, are advocating for a balanced approach that fosters innovation while addressing these dangers head-on.

While international cooperation remains a complex and contentious issue, the overarching consensus is clear: without safeguards, AI’s evolution could have unintended – and potentially catastrophic – consequences.

(Photo by Guillaume Paumier under CC BY 3.0 license. Cropped to landscape from original version.)

See also: NEPC: AI sprint risks environmental catastrophe

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

[primesummitsolutions]

Best Amazon Dropshipping Services for Small Business Owners in the USA

Amazon has become a leading platform for entrepreneurs and business owners seeking automation and growth. However, many struggle to manage their eCommerce businesses effectively due to time constraints, lack of experience, or the complexities of handling day-to-day operations. To bridge these gaps, expert Amazon services can provide valuable support by offering tailored strategies that suit both long-term growth and exit plans.

Amazon’s growth, especially post-pandemic, continues to make it an attractive platform for investment. A survey by eMarketer projects U.S. holiday spending to reach $282 billion in 2024, a 28% increase from the previous year. This demonstrates the continued success of eCommerce platforms like Amazon Seller Central.

For entrepreneurs considering dropshipping, professional managed services are invaluable. Just as an experienced race team helps optimize performance, a managed Amazon service allows business owners to hit the ground running without trial and error. By partnering with experts, owners can avoid the learning curve and start generating consistent revenue sooner.

How Amazon Dropshipping Works

In Amazon dropshipping, sellers list products from suppliers without holding inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, the seller buys the product from the supplier, and the supplier ships it directly to the customer. This model allows sellers to avoid upfront inventory costs and purchase products only after a sale has been made. Additionally, returns are managed by coordinating with suppliers, ensuring efficient refund processing.

Dropshipping is low-risk with the potential for quick growth, making it an ideal option for many entrepreneurs. Prime Summit Solutions offers a checklist-based approach to ensure compliance with Amazon's policies and optimize store performance.

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)

FBA differs from dropshipping in that Amazon manages the entire fulfillment process, including storage, shipping, and customer service. Prime Summit Solutions offers comprehensive FBA services, handling everything from product research to listing management. With FBA, businesses benefit from faster shipping, higher net profit margins, and quicker payouts compared to dropshipping. This model allows sellers to focus on growth while Amazon takes care of logistics.

The Benefits of Managed Amazon Services

Managed companies like Prime Summit Solutions provide expert support, helping small business owners optimize their eCommerce operations from the start. By leveraging expert knowledge, entrepreneurs can avoid the hassle of learning from scratch, saving valuable time and increasing their chances of success.

For long-term growth, services like white labeling and private labeling can help sellers build unique brands, eventually creating more attractive exit strategies. Prime Summit Solutions provides assistance in all areas of eCommerce, from dropshipping and FBA to brand development and Amazon automation, ensuring smooth operations at every stage.

FAQs

Payments: All earnings are paid directly to your bank account by Amazon.

Profit Margins: Dropshipping margins are typically 10-20%, while FBA margins range from 15-30%.

Financial Reports: Detailed monthly reports are provided for accounting purposes.

Return on Investment Guarantee: Prime Summit Solutions offers a legal money-back guarantee if you don’t achieve a full ROI within a specified period.

To get started, business owners can reach out to Prime Summit Solutions through their website for a free consultation. Their Amazon automation services are designed to support business growth and maximize profitability.

For more details, visit: Prime Summit Solutions

[ianfulgar]

I enjoy sharing insights and learning from experts. Here, I am having a panel discussion with Darryl Cluster of CallisonRTKL Asia and Janlo Delos Reyes of JLL Philippines about interventions of modern technology to reinvent retail, the future of shopping, and leisure developments. What innovations will define the future of commercial planning in township developments?

[pathquestsolutions]

Networking, Learning & More: PathQuest Attends Acumatica Summit 2024

Wynn, Las Vegas, January 28-31, 2024 – PathQuest attended the Acumatica Summit 2024, a dynamic platform for networking, learning, and technological exploration. As the premier annual event for the Acumatica Community, it provided attendees with unparalleled opportunities to engage with experts, discover the latest technology trends, and foster business growth.

PathQuest’s Regional Directors of Business Development, Tom Johnson and Joey Majdanski were proud participants at the summit. Amidst visionary mainstage keynotes, informative breakout sessions, and productive networking meetings, they actively contributed to the event’s vibrant atmosphere.

At the summit, PathQuest’s presence went beyond conventional networking. Engaging with industry leaders, our team exchanged insights on the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses. Attendees had the chance to explore PathQuest’s smart solutions, including PathQuest BI, Scale, and our award-winning accounts payable (AP) automation solution for growing businesses. Partnering with PathQuest translates into empowering firms with intelligent tools that save time, resources, and help make informed decisions. For more information visit at https://pathquest.com/knowledge-center/news-event/networking-learning-more-pathquest-attends-acumatica-summit-2024/

[sepdet]

[1st May 2025] Madame Pele putting on a show again tonight.

Captured from livestream just before midnight HST.

Kilauea's been erupting from vents up in the summit crater every few days since December; this is episode 19 anticipated by the daily Hawai'i Volcanoes Obsevatory bulletin quoted in the automated text scroll at the bottom of the webcam.

[empty-movement]

Welcome to Something Eternal: A Website Forum in 2023 wtf lmao

It's 2023, and a single belligerent rich guy destroyed one of the primary focal points of uh...global communication. Tumblr is, shockingly, kinda thriving despite the abuse it gets from its owners, but that I will call the iconic refusal of Tumblr users to let Tumblr get in the way of their using Tumblr. Reddit killed its API, removing the functionality of mobile apps that made it remotely readable (rip rif.) Discord, our current primary hangout, has made countless strange choices lately that indicate it has reached the summit of its usability and functionality, and can only decline from here as changes get made to prepare for shareholders. (NOTE: WROTE THIS POST BEFORE THEIR MOBILE "REDESIGN" LMAO)

The enshittification is intense, and it's coming from every direction. Social media platforms that felt like permanent institutions are instead slowly going to let fall fallow incredible amounts of history, works of art, thought, and fandoms. It kinda sucks!

A couple years ago, I posted about a new plan with a new domain, to focus on the archiving of media content, as I saw that to be the fatal weakness of the current ways the internet and fandoms work. Much has happened since to convince me to alter the direction of those efforts, though not abandon them entirely.

Long story short? We are launching a fucking website forum. In 2023.

If you remember In the Rose Garden, much about Something Eternal will be familiar. But this has been a year in the making, and in many ways it's far more ambitious than IRG was. We have put money on this. The forum is running on the same software major IT and technology businesses use, because I don't want the software to age out of usability within five years. It has an attached gallery system for me to post content to, including the Chiho Saito art collection. It has a profile post system that everyone already on the forum has decided is kinda like mini Twitter? But it is, fundamentally, a website forum, owned and run and moderated by us. We are not web devs. But we have run a website on pure spite and headbutting code for over twenty years, and we have over a decade of experience maintaining social spaces online, both on the OG forum, and on our Discord. Better skilled people with far more time than we have can and will build incredible alternatives to what is collapsing around us. But they're not in the room right now. We are. And you know what? Maybe it's time to return to a clunkier, slower moving, more conversation focused platform.

You're not joining a social media platform with the full polish of dozens of devs and automated moderation. Things might break, and I might need time to fix them. The emojis and such are still a work in progress. Because e-mails no longer route in reasonable normal ways, the sign-up process instead happens within the software, and has to be approved by mods. Design and structure elements may change. Etc. The point being, that the forum isn't finished, but it is at a place where I feel like I can present it to people, and it's people I need to help direct what functions and things will be in this space. You all will shape its norms, its traditions, its options...choices I could try to make now, but really...they're for us to create as a group! But the important stuff? That's there. Now let's drive this baby off the damn lot already!

Come! Join us!!

PS. As always, TERFs and Nazis need not apply.

[sxvual]

Felicity • n i n e

a/n: In light of recent events I completely understand this book and character may not be your cup of tea anymore. so if there’s anybody wanting to be removed from the tag list please let me know. I take zero offense, promise xx I want everyone to do what’s best for them, you can lmk in the comments or private message me ❤️

cw: Athena be raging ngl.

word count: 5.3k

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Athena sat at her desk, absently twirling a pen between her fingers as her gaze drifted toward the sprawling cityscape outside her office window. The skyline stretched endlessly, glass and steel standing tall against the afternoon sun. It was a sight she usually found grounding—something to keep her tethered to reality. But today, her mind was elsewhere, drifting somewhere between the cabin of a private jet, a little girl’s laughter, and the steady, magnetic pull of a man who had somehow wormed his way beneath her skin.

Natalie’s voice droned in the background, listing off meetings, deadlines, and obligations with machine-like efficiency.

“—Conference call with the Savino Group at ten tomorrow morning, followed by your meeting with the accounting team at one. Then there’s the keynote speech for the multimedia summit next week, which still needs to be finalized,” she rattled off, barely pausing as she scrolled through Athena’s schedule on her tablet like an automated machine.

Athena hummed in response, nodding vaguely.

Natalie stopped mid-scroll, her sharp gaze flicking up. “She’s not listening, is she?”

Across from Athena, Amina reclined in one of the sleek leather chairs, popping a grape into her mouth before smirking. “Not even a little bit.”

Athena scoffed, snapping out of her daze. “I am listening.”

Amina arched a skeptical brow. “Oh yeah? What did Nat just say?”

Athena opened her mouth, stalled, and then quickly pressed her lips shut. “Natalie said…Something about… a conference call?”

Natalie sighed, muttering something under her breath about overpaid CEOs who couldn’t be bothered to remember their own schedules. “Share it with the group.” 

Athena bit with a snarky smile, causing a slight flicker of annoyance to appear on the face of her assistant. But it’s quickly masked by a sickly sweet professional grin.

Amina paid it no mind though and grinned like a cat toying with a mouse. “Alright, spill it. Where’s your head at? And don’t even try to say it’s work, because we both know that’s a damn lie.”

Athena hesitated, her fingers stilling against the cool surface of her desk. She knew exactly where her mind had wandered—to the past few days. Gigi’s infectious giggles. The tiny, plastic tiara perched on Roman’s head. The way he had humored his daughter without an ounce of hesitation. He had looked utterly ridiculous. And yet, devastatingly sweet.

Then there was him as a whole. 

His presence was steady, reassuring in a way she hadn’t expected. His gestures—grand yet thoughtful—weren’t performative; they came from a place of knowing her. In such a little time he already seemed to know her. He listened to her in a way no one ever really had. The necklace, the trip to the Dominican Republic… those weren’t just gifts. They were proof. Proof that he saw her. That he had been paying attention when no one else ever had.

“It’s nothing,” she muttered, too quickly to be convincing.

Amina and Natalie exchanged a glance.

“Oh,” Amina mused, smirking. “It’s definitely something. You wouldn’t be chewing on that pen like it owed you some money if it wasn’t.”

Natalie leaned against the desk, intrigued. “Wait… is this about him? Because, by the way, your meeting with him is still on the calendar, but he hasn’t called to confirm.”

Athena’s brows furrowed. “He hasn’t?”

Natalie shook her head. “Nope. Which is weird, because he doesn’t seem like the type to forget. I mean flowers with sweet notes, messages to the office..”

That gave her pause. Roman was nothing if not consistent. If he hadn’t confirmed, it meant one of two things—either something had come up, or…

Amina studied her carefully. “So, what is it? Are you waiting for him to confirm, or are you hoping he cancels so you don’t have to deal with whatever this is?” She gestured vaguely at Athena, as if trying to physically point out the distraction Roman had become.

Athena exhaled slowly, tapping her nails against the desk. “I don’t know,” she admitted, frustration tightening her tone. “I spent time with him and Gigi, and she’s just… she’s such a sweet kid. I didn’t think I was the type to enjoy being around kids, but she made my heart feel…” She trailed off, searching for the right word.

“Full?” Amina offered.

Athena’s expression softened. “Yeah.”

Natalie and Amina exchanged another knowing look, but neither interrupted.

“And Roman?” Amina pressed gently. “Where does he fit into all of this?”

That was the harder question, the one Athena had been carefully avoiding. But the truth was, Roman had slowly become… something to her. More than a client. More than a friend. He was thoughtful in ways that caught her off guard. No matter how much she tried to convince herself otherwise, she liked it.

“…He makes me happy,” she admitted, voice quieter this time, as if saying it out loud made it more real.

Amina grinned. “Well, well, well. My ice queen sister has a crush.”

Athena rolled her eyes, but the warmth creeping up her neck betrayed her. “It’s not a crush. It’s… curiosity.” It was only then Athena took note of Natalie’s lingering presence. 

“Reynolds, I got it. You can go now.” 

Natalie snorted but took her leave with a smile. 

“Curiosity huh? That tends to be what people say right before they fall head first into something.” 

Athena groaned, rubbing her temples. “Okay, I’m officially done with this conversation.”

Amina laughed. “Sure. But don’t think I’m dropping this. Now, are you gonna call him? Or are you just gonna sit there pretending not to care?”

Athena glanced at her phone, lips pressing together.

“I’ll wait,” she finally said.

But deep down, she wanted him to call.

It had been well over a week now and Athena couldn’t help but expect Romans usual flirtatious antics, she got used to them before she even realized it. 

Yet he still didn’t call. 

An entire day dragged by at an agonizing, glacial pace. Conference calls. Contract signings. Meetings that blurred together. It was a ceaseless stream of work, but none of it distracted her from the silence.

No texts.

No flowers.

Not even a quick, Hey, we still on?

Nothing.

It didn’t matter. It shouldn’t matter. And yet, the longer the silence stretched, the more it gnawed at her.

Had she imagined things? Had she misread everything—the warmth, the gestures, the quiet intimacy of it all? Maybe it hadn’t meant as much to him as it had to her.

She hated that thought—hated the vulnerability in it.

Athena was almost over it. Almost. But if she was being honest? Not even close. Today had been a day—the kind that felt like a week compressed into twenty-four relentless hours. Award season loomed just around the corner, and the chaos had arrived early, dragging stress and long nights in its wake. Clients, particularly the B-list disasters, were making a sport out of self-sabotage, leaving her and her team to play cleanup crew. Every morning brought a fresh scandal splattered across blogs and gossip columns—cheating rumors, drunken tirades, social media meltdowns. And somehow, it always landed on Athena’s desk to smooth over. It was grating, infuriating. She wasn’t some glorified janitor, but lately, that’s exactly how it felt.

And then there was Amina.

If there was an award for persistence, her twin would have taken home the trophy and the lifetime achievement honor along with it. From the moment Athena’s eyes opened to the late evening hours, Amina had been relentless—poking, prying, dissecting every detail of the past weekend. Roman. Gianna. The way Athena had disappeared after the gala. And the most irritating question of all: Had he reached out?

That was the one that made Athena’s skin prickle.

Because the answer remained the same, unwavering and undeniable: No.

He hadn’t.

And every time Amina circled back to it, the annoyance chipped away at Athena’s patience, wearing her thin. She didn’t want to care, didn’t want to dissect the silence—but the absence of a message, a call, anything, sat in the back of her mind like a splinter she couldn’t tweeze out. It was irrational. So what if he hadn’t reached out? She had more important things to focus on. But the irritation built, slow and sharp, until it bit down too hard to ignore.

And by the time Natalie, her assistant,  opened her mouth to bring Roman’s name up again, Athena’s patience snapped.

“—And I just assumed you’d want to push the evening meeting with Mr. Reigns, considering he still hasn’t—”

“Assumed?” Athena’s voice was a blade, sharp and precise.

Natalie faltered, blinking at the shift in tone. “I just meant—”

“No, I heard what you meant.” Athena shut the folder in front of her with a deliberate snap. “But see, here’s the problem: You don’t assume anything for me.”

Natalie’s lips parted, but Athena was already standing, moving around her desk with slow, measured steps.

“You schedule meetings. You manage calls. You handle my calendar. That’s your job.” Athena’s voice was clipped, cold. “Your job is not to speculate about my personal life. Your job is not to make adjustments based on your opinion. And your job is certainly not to involve yourself in things that do not concern you.”

Natalie’s jaw tightened, color rising to her cheeks. “That’s not what I was—”

“It’s exactly what you were doing,” Athena cut in. “And I’m done with it. If I have a problem, I’ll handle it. If I need something changed, I’ll tell you. Until then? Stay in your lane.”

The silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken tension.

Natalie swallowed hard before nodding stiffly. “Understood.”

Athena held her gaze for a moment longer before giving a sharp, dismissive nod. “Good. Now get out.”

Natalie turned and left, the door clicking shut behind her.

And still, despite the blow up, Athena’s frustration lingered.

Because no matter how much she deflected, no matter how cold she made herself—

The truth remained:

She wasn’t mad at Natalie or her twin.

She was mad at him.

Athena exhaled slowly, pressing her fingers against her temples as the door clicked shut behind Natalie. The room was thick with the weight of her words, the sharp edges of her anger still lingering in the air.

For a moment, there was silence.

But such a luxury could only last so long. 

“Damn,” Amina murmured from her chair, drawing out the word like she was savoring it. “Remind me never to piss you off.”

Athena’s jaw clenched. “Don’t start.”

Amina tilted her head, watching her sister with measured curiosity. “I mean, I know Natalie has a tendency to push boundaries, but that?” She let out a low whistle. “That was brutal, even for you.”

Athena shot her a look. “She was out of line.”

“Maybe.” Amina shrugged. “But you didn’t have to tear her apart like that. You could’ve just reminded her of her place instead of—”

Athena scoffed. “That’s rich, coming from you. This is your fault, you know.”

Amina blinked, caught off guard. “Excuse me?”

“You’re too lax with them,” Athena accused, pacing toward her desk. Her heels clicked sharply against the marble floor, punctuating her frustration. “You let them joke with you, pry into your business, blur the lines. And because you do it, they think they can do it with me.” She turned, eyes flashing. “But they can’t. I’m not just their boss. I’m the boss. Everyone’s boss. Even yours.”

The moment the words left her mouth, she saw the flicker of something in Amina’s expression. A brief shift—annoyance, irritation, something she tried to mask but didn’t quite manage.

Amina let out a slow, measured breath. “Oh, so that’s what this is about.”

Athena crossed her arms. “It’s about making sure people know their place—”

“No,” Amina cut in, her voice suddenly sharper, less amused. “It’s about you being pissed off at something else and taking it out on Natalie. You know that, right?”

Athena bristled. “That’s not what happened.”

Amina let out a dry laugh. “Bullshit.”

Athena’s gaze hardened. “You’re missing the point.”

“No, you’re avoiding the point,” Amina countered. “You’ve been in a mood all damn day, snapping at people, walking around like a storm cloud, and I’m supposed to believe it’s just because Natalie stepped out of line?” She shook her head, exasperated. “Come on, Athena. I know you better than that.”

Athena pressed her lips together, unwilling to give an inch.

Amina studied her for a long moment, then exhaled, rolling her shoulders as she pushed up from her seat. “Fine. Be like that.” She strode toward the door, but before she left, she paused, glancing back over her shoulder.

“You know, for someone who prides themselves on control, you sure let your emotions whip you around like a ragdoll today.”

Athena’s head snapped up, her expression sharp. “Excuse me?”

Amina turned fully, her hand still on the doorknob. “You heard me. That wasn’t leadership, Athena. That was a tantrum in designer heels.”

Athena’s nostrils flared. “You think I threw a tantrum?”

“I know you did,” Amina shot back. “You tore into Natalie like she was the one who ghosted you. And let’s not pretend that’s not what this is about.”

“I’m not doing this with you,” Athena said, waving her off like the conversation was beneath her.

“Oh, but you are,” Amina said, stepping back into the room and letting the door shut behind her. “Because I’m not going to let you project your shit onto everyone else just because a man made you feel something.”

“That’s not fair.”

“No, what’s not fair is watching you burn everyone around you because you’re scared to admit you care. Scared that maybe—just maybe—he matters more than you want him to.”

Athena looked away, jaw clenched. “You’re reading way too much into this.”

“No, you’re not reading into it enough.” Amina’s voice softened slightly, but the steel remained beneath it. “You felt something real. And instead of sitting with it—processing it like an adult—you’re lashing out. At Natalie. At me. Hell, you probably barked at the barista this morning too.”

Athena’s gaze flicked up, guilt flashing behind her irritation.

“Look,” Amina continued, voice gentler now. “I get it. Vulnerability? It’s not your thing. It never has been. But what Roman gave you this weekend? That wasn’t just a fling or a PR stunt. It was connection. And it scared the hell out of you.”

Athena’s hands tightened into fists at her sides. “It didn’t scare me.”

Amina tilted her head. “Didn’t it? Because the Athena I know—the real you—doesn’t get quiet over men. Doesn’t let silence rattle her. And she sure as hell doesn’t get so worked up that she snaps at people who’ve done nothing wrong.”

Athena looked down, her voice brittle. “I didn’t mean to—”

“I know,” Amina cut in gently. “But that doesn’t make it okay. Natalie’s not the problem here. Roman is. Or rather, how he made you feel is.”

Silence stretched between them, thick and unrelenting.

Finally, Athena let out a slow breath, her voice barely above a whisper. “He made me feel seen. Like really seen. And I think… I think I liked it more than I should’ve.”

Amina’s expression softened. “And now he’s gone quiet.”

Athena nodded, folding her arms tightly. “And now I feel stupid. I don’t do this. I don’t let people in. But I let him in—just a little—and now he’s disappeared like it meant nothing. And I’m the idiot sitting here waiting on a call that might never come.”

Amina crossed the room slowly, placing a hand on her twin’s shoulder. “You’re not an idiot. You’re human. And believe it or not, that’s not a weakness. It’s just proof you’re still capable of feeling.”

Athena’s eyes glistened, but she blinked the tears away before they could fall. “I hate this.”

“I know,” Amina said softly. “But you’re not alone in it. You’ve got me, remember?”

Athena looked up, the tension in her shoulders loosening just a bit. “Yeah. I know.”

Amina gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze. “So maybe go a little easier on the people around you, huh? We’re not the enemy.”

Athena managed a faint, rueful smile. “Noted.”

“And maybe,” Amina added, stepping back with a wink, “instead of waiting on a call, you pick up the damn phone and make one.”

Athena didn’t reply, but as Amina left the room this time, there was no slamming of doors, no sharp retorts—only the quiet hum of possibility left in her wake.

Athena prided herself on never waiting around for a man. That was her excuse for not calling. 

She was too busy, too important, too focused to waste time on something as trivial as 

And yet, as the hours of the day slipped away, she couldn’t shake the gnawing irritation that settled in the pit of her stomach.

She wasn’t expecting much—she never did. But after everything, after the weekend, after the way he looked at her when she agreed to try… she figured he’d at least say something.

Instead, she got nothing.

By noon, she brushed it off, too immersed in a brutal negotiation call to care.

By two, she had silenced her phone entirely, forcing herself not to check it between meetings.

By four, she was staring blankly at the pages of a contract while Natalie’s voice droned in the background.

“…conference call with the Zurich team at ten tomorrow—Ms. James?”

Athena didn’t even look up. “I got it.”

There was a beat of silence before Natalie cleared her throat. “Right. I’ll email you the details.” She hesitated, gaze flickering to Amina, who was perched on the other side of Athena’s desk, watching her sister like a hawk. “I’ll leave you two to it.”

Athena barely registered her assistant’s exit, flipping a page in the contract like she was actually absorbing any of the words in front of her.

“I think you’ve traumatized that poor girl.” 

“Bite me.” Athena's words were quick and cutting almost. 

“Like you’ve done the head of every employee we have today, no little sister I’m the nice boss remember? They’re boss at least.” The shade was obvious. 

Amina let the silence stretch before she finally sighed, setting down her cappuccino.

“So, we're gonna talk about the brooding thing you’ve got going on, or are you gonna keep pretending that you’re not pissed off?”

Athena didn’t look up. “I’m not brooding.”

Amina arched her brow. “Right. And I’m not your twin. With a matching face and brain?’

Athena turned a page scoffing.

Amina snorted. “Girl, give it up. You’ve been about as present as a deadbeat dad today. And I know why.”

Athena’s gaze finally lifted, sharp and unimpressed. “Do you?”

Amina smirked, crossing her legs. “Nothing still.”

Athena exhaled sharply, shutting the folder in front of her. “I have work to do, Amina.”

Amina ignored that entirely, leaning forward. “You really thought he’d call, huh?”

Athena’s nails tapped against the desk, slow and deliberate. “I wasn’t expecting anything.”

It was a lie.

They both knew it.

And Athena hated that Amina saw right through her.

Her sister tilted her head, examining her. “You’re mad.”

Athena scoffed. “I’m not mad.”

Amina grinned. “Oh, you big mad.”

Athena leveled her with a look. “Drop it.”

Amina just studied her, unfazed. “I never thought I’d see you like someone so much.”

Athena let out a humorless laugh. “I never said that.”

Amina lifted a brow. “Oh, honey. The fact that you’re spiraling over radio silence says everything for you.”

Athena opened her mouth ready to argue, but nothing came out. She did like him. 

Athena didn’t dignify that with a response, pushing up from her chair with a curt, “I’ll see you later.”

Amina didn't push further, but the glint in her eyes told her that her sister knew exactly what was going on.

As she walked to the door, she felt the weight of everything pressing down on her—the work, the disappointment, and the unresolved feelings that had begun to crowd her mind.

Once in the hallway, Athena stopped, taking a deep breath to steady herself. She'd spent so much of her life building walls around her emotions, making sure nothing ever got too close. But Roman… he had breached those walls in ways she hadn’t even noticed until now. The way he made her laugh, the quiet moments with him that felt like they held more weight than anything else, and the way he’d shown up for her when it mattered most. It wasn’t just the attraction—though that was undeniable—it was something deeper, something that made her feel like she might not have to do it all alone anymore.

But the silence… the lack of any communication since that weekend? It gnawed at her. And now, it felt like a cruel test. Was she important enough for him to reach out, or had he simply moved on?

By the time Athena got home, the silence in her penthouse was suffocating. Her exhaustion went beyond the physical.

She went through the motions—shower, skincare, moisturizing, then dressing in one of her dark silky midi robes. Her mind was still reeling a thousand miles away—she didn’t like this feeling, waiting. It made her feel beyond vulnerable.

Any yet, she still sat at the edge of her bed, hand fisting her freshly washed and detangled curls in frustration. Checking her phone like a schoolgirl waiting for the boy she liked to text her back. 

She had been stupid to think he was different.

Stupid to think it had meant anything.

She glanced at her phone, expression impassive, thumb hovering over his contact. 

Don’t do it.

She locked it and set it down.

Then—

FaceTime Incoming: Roman Reigns.

Her heart stalled.

For a second, she considered ignoring it. Making him wait the way he had made her.

But she wasn’t that childish.

So she answered.

The screen filled with his face, hair pulled into a messy bun, dark circles under his eyes. Despite his obvious exhaustion, he still looked… good.

Annoyingly good.

He exhaled the second she appeared.

“I’m so sorry.”

Athena’s face remained neutral. “Are you?”

Roman hesitated, caught off guard by her clipped tone.

Then he nodded. “Yeah. I meant to call, but Gigi—” He sighed, rubbing a hand down his face. “She got sick. Stomach bug. It’s been hell.”

Athena remained still, unreadable.

Then, quietly, “Is she okay?” her voice was soft and concerned.

Roman nodded. “Getting better. Just been a rough couple of days.”

A beat of silence stretched between them.

Then—

“You should’ve just said that,” Athena said evenly. “Would’ve taken two seconds.”

Roman blinked.

Athena tilted her head, eyes cool. “I get it. You were busy. But you could’ve said something.”

Roman held her gaze, something unreadable flickering behind his own.

Then he sighed. “You’re right.”

Athena waited, watching him.

Finally, he exhaled, voice softer. 

“I didn’t mean to leave you hanging, babygirl. I’m sorry.”

Something in her expression wavered, just for a second.

But then she nodded, as if satisfied.

“Alright.”

Roman studied her.

“…Alright?”

Athena shrugged, but there was something distant in her eyes.

“Nothing else to say.”

A pause.

Then, “Meeting’s still on tomorrow?” she asked, businesslike.

Roman’s jaw tensed slightly, as if he wasn’t sure how to read her shift in demeanor.

“Yeah,” he said. “But at my place.”

Athena stilled.

Roman saw the hesitation, so he pressed.

“I can’t leave Gigi. And I don’t want to put this off.”

A moment passed.

Then another.

Athena finally exhaled, nodding. “…Fine.”

Roman’s lips twitched, but he didn’t push his luck.

“Good.”

Another bout of silence stretched on between them. Roman of course being the one to break it, flashing her a teasing smile. “Hey, beautiful.” 

“Don’t hey me, asshole.”

“Don’t do that beautiful. You know I missed you right?”

Athena rolled her eyes, of course the handsome bastard would try and charm his way out of this. “Cut the crap, I still don’t like you right now. I just feel bad for Gigi.” 

“So give her poor dad some slack would you?” 

Athena leaned back onto her perfectly coiffed pillows, her face still stony, while the handsome devil just grinned on. 

“She threw up on me twice.”  

“You probably deserved it.” 

“She didn’t even apologize, just demanded more blue gatorade.” Finally she cracked and let out a high pitched squeal of a laugh that slightly shocked them both. But Athena couldn’t be bothered to care; she giggled without abandon and Roman enjoyed every second of it. 

“I like it when you laugh like that.”

“What are you talking about, a laugh is a laugh.” He shook his head, smirking. 

"You're not fooling anyone, Athena," he said softly, his voice carrying a hint of amusement mixed with something else, something heavier.

Athena shot him a glance, trying to maintain her composure. "And what’s that supposed to mean?" she asked, her tone sharp but laced with a thread of curiosity.

He leaned back slightly, his posture casual, but there was an intensity to his gaze that made her feel like the room was getting smaller. "I think you know exactly what I mean." He paused for a moment, his smirk softening into something almost unreadable. "But maybe you're just too proud to admit it."

Her breath hitched slightly at his words, a mix of frustration and something else tightening in her chest. "You're full of yourself," she muttered, but the words didn’t feel as strong as she wanted them to. Roman's smirk deepened, a knowing glint flickering in his eyes.

"Maybe," he said, his voice lowering, "but I’m right, aren’t I?"

For a moment, they stood in silence, the tension hanging thick between them. Athena tried to look away, but something in his stare held her captive, a pull that made her heart race in a way she wasn’t prepared for.

Before she could respond, he took a step closer, the space between them closing rapidly. "I don't bite, you know," he said with a quiet chuckle. "Unless you want me to."

Her pulse quickened, a mixture of irritation and something more dangerous bubbling to the surface. "You think you're funny?"

His hand brushed against hers as he passed her, his touch barely there, but it sent a jolt of electricity through her. He didn’t look back, but his words lingered in the air.

“Come to mine tomorrow, we can talk shop over dinner.” 

“Absolutely not.” 

Roman just grinned at her hard “no,” like it was a dare instead of a denial. “C’mon, Athena,” he said, voice low and coaxing. “Let me cook for you. One dinner. At my place. Gigi will be asleep by the time you get there.” He leaned closer into the camera, the screen filled with those ridiculous eyes and that cocky mouth, and she hated how much power they had over her.

“I’ll make the steak the way you like it,” he added, like he had any damn business knowing that. Athena narrowed her eyes. “You don’t know how I like my steak.” “I do. Medium rare, cast iron, garlic butter. Simple.” She blinked. “How—” “I pay attention.” His voice was softer now, and it tugged something loose in her chest.

But still— “That’s not the point,” she said quickly. “We have a meeting, Roman. This is business.” “So we’ll talk business,” he said easily. “You help me prep for your interview, I’ll handle dinner. You’re busy, I get it. That’s why I’m making it easy. You don’t have to think, don’t have to get dressed up, don’t even have to wear shoes. Just show up.” Athena bit the inside of her cheek, trying not to show how much she was wavering. “And if I say no?” “I’ll probably still send a car. Might even guilt-trip you with a sad dad text. Maybe a picture of Gigi making her ‘please’ face.” Athena rolled her eyes. “You’re impossible.” Roman smiled. “But charming. Admit it.” “No.” “Admit it just a little.” She exhaled a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding. “Fine. Dinner. Meeting. That’s it.” Roman beamed. “Yes ma’am. I’ll even wear a real shirt this time.” He looked down at his stained white beater with some of Gigi’s spilled gatorade and probably snot as well. “Please do. You looked like you just crawled out of a swamp.” “Still look good though.” Athena glared at him, but her lips twitched. “I’ll see you at seven.” “I’ll be ready.” He paused, then added, “And Athena?” She met his gaze through the screen, the smallest tilt of her head. “I’m really glad you picked up.” She didn’t respond right away, but her face softened. “…So am I.”

The call ended, leaving her staring at her screen in silence. And despite everything—the radio silence, the tension, the frustration—she felt her chest lift, just a little.

Not because he had charmed her. Not because he apologized. But because he showed up, again.

And maybe, just maybe… She wasn’t as alone in this thing as she thought.

Roman stared at the empty screen long after the call ended, the faint echo of Athena’s laugh still bouncing around his head like a melody he didn’t want to forget.

That laugh… it had cracked through the distance between them, just for a second. And God, he’d missed it more than he realized.

He leaned back against the couch, one arm cradling Gigi’s small frame where she dozed on his chest, knocked out from the fever and exhaustion. Her breath was slow and steady now, but Roman had been on edge for two days—up every hour, washing sheets, cleaning up messes, making soothing sounds when she cried. It had been chaotic. And in the middle of it, he’d gone silent.

He hadn’t meant to. But his babygirl commanded nearly all of him and Roman would always happily give it. 

But Athena didn’t deserve radio silence. Not her. Not the woman who carried steel in her spine and grief in her eyes like a secret language only a few would ever understand.

He let his head fall back against the cushion with a low exhale.

There were a lot of beautiful women in his world. Loud, magnetic, carefully crafted illusions that all seemed to blend together the second he left the room.

But not her.

Athena wasn’t just someone you noticed—she was the one you remembered. Not because she demanded it. Not because she tried. But because the second she walked into a room, he didn’t see anyone else.

And more than that—he felt her. Even in silence. Even now.

Roman glanced toward the soft lamp glow spilling across his living room and imagined her here. Her heels kicked off in the entryway. Her face pinched from the weight of her day. Her body stiff from holding too much tension for too damn long. He thought about what he really wanted tomorrow to look like.

Not just a meal. Not just business.

He wanted to cook for her, plate her favorite food—even if he had to Google ten recipes just to get it right. He wanted to sit her down, take off her shoes, and rub her feet while they argued over something dumb on TV. He wanted to learn what movie made her laugh without thinking, what comfort film she watched when she was too exhausted to keep pretending she didn’t need anyone.

He wanted to hear how she liked her tea, if she slept with a fan on, if she always twisted her hair like that when she was thinking.

Because caring for her didn’t feel like a responsibility.

It felt like a privilege.

And yeah, he’d messed up by not calling. He owned that.

But tomorrow… tomorrow he’d make it up to her. With dinner. With quiet care. With small things that added up to something bigger than words.

He glanced down at Gigi, brushing her hair back from her warm forehead. Then he looked back at his phone, thumb hovering over the Notes app.

Athena’s favorite comfort movie – Ask her first thing.

*Foot rub. No arguments. No negotiations. She needs it.

*Something sweet after dinner. Not just dessert. Say what you feel, don’t hide behind charm this time.

Roman smiled softly to himself, locking the screen.

He didn’t just want her in his bed.

He wanted her in his life.

And if tomorrow was the first step to proving that—then he’d make damn sure it counted.

🏷️ tags:

@trippinsorrows @southerngirl41 @lilucey @alichesmi @skyesthebomb

@reginawhorge01 @jazzyboo123-blog1 @overrboarrd @heerah34 @whowrotethenote

@sharmelasworld @purplementalitybluebird @sheaabuttaababyy @beccalynns-world @littlepieceofsh

@diamondlifeee

[mariacallous]

Following latest news and developments, the American Coalition for Ukraine, issues statement on the U.S. Administration's Decision to Pause Military Aid to Ukraine Undermines U.S. Security. 

For decades, the United States has championed peace through strength. Now, the current Administration’s pause on military aid and intelligence information to Ukraine undermines U.S. interests by signalling retreat to our adversaries. While the battlefield impact of this decision will take weeks to play out, the moral and diplomatic fallout is immediate, and the risk of civilian casualties increases immediately. 

Additionally, lifting economic sanctions imposed on Russia would only serve to empower Putin and hand him additional resources to continue his invasion, while making  the U.S. look weak and unreliable.

Supporting Ukraine is a smart defense investment. Less than 5% of the U.S. defense budget helped significantly degrade Russia’s military without American boots on the ground. If Ukraine falls, U.S. costs and risks will escalate.

Any pause or disruption of aid to Ukraine helps Putin, weakens NATO, and emboldens America’s adversaries. China may target Taiwan, while Iran and North Korea will test U.S. resolve. Ignoring Russia’s war crimes against Christians, children, and civilians does not represent America’s values of faith and freedom. 

The American Coalition for Ukraine calls on the administration to immediately restore military and intelligence aid to Ukraine and pursue peace talks from a position of strength. We urge Congress to represent the will of their constituents, who overwhelmingly support Ukraine and distrust Putin; to act decisively to uphold American values in the face of autocratic aggression; and to continue bipartisan support for Ukraine through military, economic, and humanitarian assistance.

The situation is evolving rapidly, but one thing must continue to grow — the number of calls from Ukraine supporters to Congress.

We urge you to keep calling your representatives. To make this process easier, we have launched an automated tool that allows you to reach your elected officials in just a few clicks. Your voice matters — let’s make it heard! 

visit http://americancoalitionforukraine.org for more details, or click the link below for quick access to our online tool.

JOIN RALLIES FOR UKRAINE

In recent days, many of our communities have come together for emergency rallies to demonstrate the broad support Ukraine has among the American people. We invite you to join our rally in Washington, D.C., this weekend or stand with your local community to voice your support for Ukraine.

visit event Facebook page for more details 

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MEDIA

Write a letter to the editor, an op-ed, or reach out to your local radio and TV stations to share your perspective on this critical moment for Ukraine. Your voice matters!

REGISTER FOR UKRAINE ACTION SUMMIT, SPRING 2025

Three years in, Ukraine still fights for its survival. The Ukraine Action Summit is an incredible opportunity to reinforce long-term support for Ukraine at a crucial moment.

Register today to take advantage of early bird pricing—prices increase tomorrow!

Our community of advocates has grown exponentially since the launch of the American Coalition for Ukraine. We are committed to delivering expert-driven advocacy coordination and reliable support for our community, ensuring that all our actions and engagements yield top results. But we need your help to make it happen! 

Please donate to support our work for Ukraine!

Zelle email for donations: donate@americancoalitionforukraine.org

or use button below to donate via PayPal and CC

[cardiacreports2]

Paramedic Incident Report

Incident Number: 2024-19245 Date: December 6, 2024 Time of Call: 15:23

Incident Location: ClimbX Indoor Gym, 345 Summit Street, Boulder, CO

Patient Information:

Name: Daniel Carson

Age: 20

Gender: Male

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 165 lbs

Physical Description: Lean and muscular build with well-defined arms and torso typical of an experienced climber. Short dark brown hair, light complexion.

Description of Incident: At 15:23, dispatch received a 911 call reporting a young male climber had collapsed while bouldering at an indoor climbing facility. The patient was reportedly scaling a mid-level climb when witnesses described him suddenly clutching his chest, losing his grip, and falling to the mat below. He was unresponsive upon initial assessment by gym staff.

Initial Assessment Upon Arrival (15:30):

Level of Consciousness: Unresponsive

Pulse: Absent

Respiratory Effort: None

Skin Condition: Pale, cool, and clammy

Pupils: Fixed and dilated

Bystanders reported that staff initiated CPR immediately after the collapse and delivered one shock using the facility's automated external defibrillator (AED).

Treatment at Scene (15:30-15:45):

CPR: High-quality chest compressions continued upon paramedics’ arrival.

Airway Management: Airway secured with a bag-valve mask; oxygen at 15 L/min.

AED Analysis: AED advised one additional shock, which was administered at 15:35. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) achieved at 15:37.

Vital Signs Post-ROSC:

Pulse: Weak and irregular at 45 bpm

Blood Pressure: 80/50 mmHg

Respiration: Shallow and labored at 10 breaths/min

Oxygen Saturation: 78%

Transport Summary (15:45-16:00): Patient was loaded into the ambulance for transport to St. Anthony's Hospital. During transport, the patient exhibited further signs of cardiac distress. At 15:50, he experienced ventricular fibrillation (VF).

Intervention: CPR resumed, epinephrine 1 mg administered IV, and defibrillation attempted twice.

Outcome: No ROSC achieved after second cardiac arrest.

Time of Death: 16:00

Remarks: The patient suffered two cardiac arrests within a 30-minute period, likely indicative of a severe underlying cardiac condition. Efforts to stabilize were unsuccessful due to continued arrhythmias and compromised circulation.

Autopsy Report

Case Number: 2024-AU-1245 Date of Examination: December 7, 2024 Time of Examination: 09:00

Name: Daniel Carson Age: 20 Height: 5'11" Weight: 165 lbs Sex: Male Race: Caucasian

External Examination:

General Appearance: Well-developed and muscular young male. No evidence of external trauma except for mild abrasions on the back of hands and forearms, consistent with climbing activities. Skin pale with slight cyanosis around the lips and nail beds.

Scars/Marks: None significant.

Tattoos: None noted.

Clothing: Patient arrived wearing climbing shorts and a tank top.

Internal Examination:

Cardiovascular System:

Heart: Enlarged, weighing 420 grams (average for age/weight: 300-350 grams).

Valves: Mitral valve revealed significant calcification and fibrosis, indicative of a congenital defect. The defective valve exhibited stenosis, which restricted blood flow and created turbulent circulation.

Coronary Arteries: Severe occlusion (95%) of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery due to atherosclerotic plaque.

Myocardium: Evidence of acute ischemic changes and scarring, suggesting prior silent infarctions. The ventricular walls were thickened (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

Aorta: Normal caliber and appearance.

Respiratory System:

Lungs congested, with frothy fluid in the trachea and bronchi.

Right lung: 450 grams; Left lung: 430 grams.

Gastrointestinal System:

Stomach contained approximately 200 mL of partially digested food.

No abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

Central Nervous System:

Brain weight: 1,450 grams. No gross abnormalities.

Other Organs:

Liver: Enlarged (1,600 grams), possibly due to mild congestion.

Kidneys: Unremarkable.

Spleen: Normal size.

Microscopic Examination:

Heart Tissue: Acute myocardial infarction visible in sections of the left ventricle.

Coronary Arteries: Advanced plaque buildup with rupture and thrombus formation.

Mitral Valve: Fibrotic thickening and calcification evident.

Toxicology:

No evidence of drugs or alcohol.

Summary and Cause of Death: Daniel Carson, a 20-year-old male, died from complications of a congenital mitral valve defect and severe coronary artery disease. The primary event was a massive myocardial infarction triggered by the blockage of the LAD artery. A second cardiac arrest during transport proved fatal.

Final Diagnosis:

Acute myocardial infarction secondary to LAD artery occlusion.

Congenital mitral valve stenosis and calcification.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy contributing to cardiac instability.

Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest due to a defective valve and blocked artery.

Manner of Death: Natural.

Signed by: Dr. Margaret Li, MD Pathologist

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

USP team wins Nuclear Olympiad with project to improve access to radiotherapy in Brazil

The Polythermic Neutrons group, from USP’s School of Engineering (Poli), won the nuclear medicine category in the 2024 Brazilian Nuclear Olympiad, organized by the Brazilian Association for the Development of Nuclear Activities (ABDAN). The competition began in April this year and the winners were announced at the beginning of November at the Nuclear Summit 2024 event, with the theme challenge Cancer treatment: how can Brazil advance in the implementation of new technologies?

“We chose to take part in the medical category because it was something new for us and because we didn’t have much contact with this sector during our undergraduate studies,” says Luana Gomes da Silva, one of the members of the group, from the Materials Engineering course. The team also includes students Álvaro Sant’Anna Ferreira Neto, Enzo Yamamoto, João Pedro Oliveira Glóder Prado and Thais Kaori Yazawa, all from the first class of Poli’s Nuclear Engineering course, entrants in 2021.

They developed NPoli, a suite of software for scheduling medical appointments, exams and radiotherapy sessions, which aims to reduce barriers and speed up the stages of treatment in this area of medicine. “Some of the functions offered by the platform are: Smart Radiotherapy Scheduling; Integration with Exam Regulation and Management Systems; Control Panel for Physicians and Healthcare Professionals; and Automated Notifications and Interactivity with Patients,” explains Luana.

Inspired by the main international private solutions, such as Varian’s ARIA and Elekta’s Mosaiq, and the systems used by the SUS (Unified Health System), such as Sisreg and e-SUS APS, NPoli has a simplified interface, making it easy to use for different audiences, and integrates with the health regulation systems already in place in Brazil. The idea was to create a system that would adapt to the decentralized reality of the SUS, serving both large centers and less favored regions. Another difference is that, unlike private solutions, NPoli’s focus is on inclusion and accessibility, facilitating communication with patients. The platform also offers the possibility of managing the use of hospital resources, such as radiotherapy machines, optimizing their use and reducing waiting times.

Continue reading.

[nikproxima]

Horizon Lore Post

The Climate Victory Compact, contrary to its name, was not an admission of victory - it was a crushing defeat on all sides. The Great War acted as the primary driver for this, a massive, continent scaling conflict that saw every piece of military equipment utilized. Initially a proxy war between states, by the 2080s the Rus-Sino-NATO conflict had boiled over into full peer-to-peer conflict, with both forces making territorial grabs across Asia and Northern Africa. Resources were scarce, and the quest for continued extraction had come to blows. The Siberian steppe became the new Verdun, and NATO-Allied forces held their own for nearly two years. In the Middle East, oil fields were hastily burned to prevent Chinese and Russian forces from making a land grab. Lines were breaking on both sides, and the tunnel vision of conflict prevented the major powers from identifying the sheer degradation of global order. Nations grew tired, people grew tired, and the delicate framework that kept the planet together seemed to border on crisis. In space, battles raged - automated war frigates carried out their espionage and counterspace maneuvers, a cat and mouse game that had unfortunately broken the allure of space for peace. On the Moon, the great settlements locked their doors, and astronauts bolstered rifles as their home countries duked it out on the surface. It is unknown if any skirmeshes occurred on the lunar surface. Mars was silent, as it always was. Cities had been ravaged by natural disasters, one after the other, for so many years - and many were beginning to wonder if the end of times was truly upon them.

November 19th, 2089 was a day like any other. The US-led "Cavalier Brigade" was preparing to push through a Chinese blockade, potentially allowing for a small town's water filtration system to fall back into NATO hands. CENTCOM had it first, a brilliant flash had been observed by SBIRS satellites hiding out at GEO, roaring upward from the deserts of Iran. A missile had been launched - it's target unknown. In a quick ballistic arc, the missile would shed its first and second stages, before deploying a confusing volley of chaff - designed to confuse enemy interceptors. And then, it began to fall. Skipping across the atmosphere, the warhead sought its target before finally detonating over the city of New Dehli. 76 megatons would kill millions in moments, the largest wartime nuclear detonation since Hiroshima. A decapitation strike, the Indian government could not respond - and for a precious few minutes, the world hung in the balance. The Indian president, away for a UN summit, found his nation in ruins - an entire line of government destroyed. In a passionate speech delivered to the UN, he pleaded his case - citing the destruction of his beloved home city as a failure of the modern world. It would not fall on deaf ears.

Gradually, the war would lead to atrophy - as constrained resources made the conflict harder to keep up. Even with the advent of fusion power, the outdated equipment being thrown into the conflict could not be maintained sustainably. The last shot was fired by an M1 Abrams tank in January of 2090, as a 1,000 year storm ravaged the East Coast. Sheltering in the UN headquarters in New York, leaders of the world began to face what they had made. Superstorm Elena is marked by many as the final blow of the Rus-Sino-NATO war, later referred to as the Great War or the Dark War by Lunar historians. It is out of this 3 day storm that the agreements of the C-V-C were established, the creation of a combined, UN military for keeping of the peace, and the transition to sustainability projects with the hope of protecting a crippled world from slipping further into darkness.

[sunshinesmebdy]

Moon in Capricorn: Power Up Your Business with Earthly Ambition

Strap on your climbing boots, entrepreneurs! The moon is entering the ambitious realm of Capricorn, bringing an earthy blend of practicality, determination, and long-term vision. As an astrologer and business consultant, I’m here to guide you on harnessing this potent energy to propel your business to new heights.

What does the Moon in Capricorn signify?

Imagine a mountain goat, scaling treacherous peaks with unwavering focus. That’s the essence of this transit. It’s about setting realistic goals, building solid foundations, and taking strategic action. Think long-term plans, financial responsibility, and laser-sharp focus. Emotions take a backseat, replaced by calculated decisions and a drive for tangible results.

How to Utilize this Energy for Your Business:

Goal Setting: Define your SMART goals, those that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This transit favors practicality, so break down your vision into actionable steps.

As the Moon in Capricorn urges practicality, ditch the vague aspirations and embrace the power of SMART goals! Define exactly what you want (Specific), track your progress with data (Measurable), ensure it’s within reach (Achievable), align it with your overall vision (Relevant), and set a clear deadline (Time-bound). Break your ambitions into bite-sized, actionable steps — Capricorn celebrates the steady climb, not just the summit. This focused approach helps you conquer your goals with grounded determination, channeling the Earthly essence of this impactful transit.

Structure & Systems: Capricorn craves order. Streamline your operations, optimize workflows, and implement efficient systems. This boosts productivity and frees up your time for strategic thinking.

Embrace the mountain goat’s love for order! Under the Moon in Capricorn, streamline your business operations like a well-oiled machine. Optimize workflows, automate tasks where possible, and implement efficient systems for everything from communication to inventory management. Remember, structure isn’t rigidity, it’s liberation. By minimizing chaos, you boost productivity, free up valuable time for strategic thinking, and lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth. This transit favors organization, so channel your inner efficiency expert and watch your business soar to new heights.

Financial Planning: Get serious about your finances. Create a budget, analyze your spending, and explore investments for sustainable growth. Remember, security is key for this moon phase.

Buckle up for financial responsibility under the Moon in Capricorn! This isn’t a time for whimsy — it’s time to create a realistic budget that tracks your income and expenses with laser focus. Analyze your spending patterns ruthlessly, identify areas for improvement, and eliminate unnecessary outflows. Remember, security is paramount. Explore investment options with a long-term lens, prioritizing stability and sustainable growth over risky ventures. This transit favors prudence, so treat your finances like a well-built fortress, weatherproofing your business for future success.

Networking & Partnerships: Connect with people who share your ambitions and values. Look for collaborators who bring expertise and stability to your endeavors. Remember, quality over quantity.

As the Moon in Capricorn emphasizes quality over quantity, ditch the scattered networking and seek strategic partnerships. Look for individuals who not only share your ambition but also embody the grounded values of this transit. Seek collaborators who bring complementary expertise and a commitment to stability, fostering a foundation built to last. Think quality over quantity — a few well-chosen partnerships can provide invaluable support, shared resources, and diverse perspectives, propelling your business forward with the collective strength of like-minded individuals. Remember, under this moon’s influence, synergy trumps superficial connections, so curate your network carefully and watch your endeavors flourish with the power of collaboration.

Strategic Marketing: This is a time for targeted marketing efforts. Analyze your audience, refine your messaging, and focus on strategies that deliver long-term ROI. Don’t get swayed by fads — build a brand with staying power.

Forget the fleeting trends! The Moon in Capricorn demands strategic marketing with enduring impact. Dive deep and truly understand your target audience, their needs, and their pain points. Refine your messaging with laser-sharp clarity, ensuring it resonates and compels action. Focus on campaigns that deliver long-term return on investment, building brand loyalty instead of fleeting attention. Don’t get swayed by the latest fads; this transit favors classics that stand the test of time. Invest in high-quality content, targeted advertising, and genuine connections. Remember, under this moon’s influence, slow and steady wins the marketing race, so build a brand with a solid foundation that attracts and retains customers for years to come.

Tips for the Transit:

Embrace Discipline: Stick to your schedule, resist distractions, and cultivate self-discipline. Remember, slow and steady wins the race under this moon influence.

Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Taking the time to appreciate your progress fuels motivation and keeps you moving forward.

Prioritize Self-Care: While ambition is high, don’t neglect your well-being. Grounding activities like exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature can help you stay centered and energized.

Remember, the moon moves quickly, so make the most of this powerful transit. By aligning your actions with the Capricorn moon’s energy, you can build a resilient business that stands the test of time. As always, consult a professional astrologer for personalized guidance tailored to your unique birth chart and business needs.

[mila-violet]

Kody Technolab Ltd. Captivates Vibrant Gujarat 2024 with India’s First Humanoid Robot, Honored by Prime Minister’s Visit

Kody Technolab’s AI Humanoid Revolutionizes Tech at Vibrant Gujarat 2024, Earns Acclaim with PM’s Visit

The experience of interacting with Kody Technolab’s humanoid was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s not just a robot; it’s a glimpse into the future of human-robot collaboration.”

AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT, INDIA, January 10, 2024 / EINPresswire/ — In a landmark event at Vibrant Gujarat 2024 Summit, Kody Technolab Limited launches Skändä, India’s first indigenously developed, most advanced AI-powered humanoid. The significance of this launch was further highlighted when Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who was there to inaugurate the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 visited the hall where Kody Technolab Ltd’s indigenous robots, a part of his marquee “Make in India” movement, were displayed.

Brief about our product i.e. Humanoid Robot Skändä

The humanoid robot, equipped with advanced AI and interactive communication capabilities, rapidly became a centerpiece of the Summit, symbolizing a new era in India’s technological advancement.

The robot’s ability to engage with attendees, answer queries, and demonstrate its functionalities made it a sensation, with many visitors expressing their fascination and excitement. A visitor, Dr. Ayesha Sharma, a tech enthusiast and professor at a leading university, remarked, “The experience of interacting with Kody Technolab’s humanoid was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s not just a robot; it’s a glimpse into the future of human-robot collaboration.”

This is the fourth automated robot launched by Kody Technolab Limited in the last year. Its commitment to innovation aligns with India’s strategic vision of becoming a global leader in robotics and AI. By focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries, Kody Technolab Limited is not only contributing to the nation’s technological prowess but also aiding in its economic growth. Their endeavors in robotic development are a testament to India’s capacity for cutting-edge innovation, showcasing the nation’s potential to revolutionize industries globally.

These robots are indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ ideology, underscoring commitment to technological advancement within our nation. Kody Technolab Ltd.’s approach of leveraging cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), has been pivotal in creating these futuristic robots that are set to revolutionize global business operations.

“This humanoid is a peek into the future of technology and human interaction,” said Mr. Manav Patel, Founder and Managing Director of Kody Technolab Limited. “We are overwhelmed by the response from the visitors and are excited about the potential this holds for India and the world.”

Details of Participation: You can experience this marvelous humanoid by visiting the Kody Technolab Stall (Hall №10, Stall no. 15) at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024. The humanoid will be on display from January 10th to 13th, offering a unique glimpse into the future of human-robot interaction. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a groundbreaking moment in robotics.

About Kody Technolab Limited:

Kody Technolab Limited is a leading software development company specializing in enterprise-level projects and mobile application solutions. With a focus on emerging technologies such as AI, ML, and robotics solutions, Kody Technolab Limited has ventured into the robotics space with its products such as India’s premier surveillance robot Athena, and its custom service robot Dasher. Having successfully delivered 250+ projects and garnered the satisfaction of 150+ clients, Kody Technolab Limited is poised to transform the industry and continue delivering cutting-edge software solutions to businesses in more than 30+ countries around the world.

Nirav Panchal (Chief Marketing Officer) Kody Technolab Limited +91 93167 56367 info@kodytechnolab.com

Meet Skändä, India’s most advanced and AI-powered Humanoid Robot that became a sensation at Vibrant Gujarat 2024!

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Trends in AI & Generative AI: Insights from The 2023 AI Summit New York 

Last week, I covered the AI Summit in New York. I was excited to learn about the trends in AI and generative AI and to see some commercial applications of these new technological advancements. 

Patrick Murphy of UAB led the AI Exhibitor hub. Patrick shared insights from his research on Entrepreneurship. He shared how start-ups use AI, and Generative AI to scale up and bring products to market. 

Generative AI is being used in the following eight ways:

Content and Asset Generative

Automated Processes

Ideation

Financial Management

Project Design

Optimized Structures

Acceleration and incubation

Ethics and Risk Management. 

There was a pitching completion where start-ups did pitches in multiple rounds. At the beginning of the competition, they received advice from judges on best practices. 

One of the start-ups that was of interest was Botwise. Jan Nowak shared how his team shared a use case on how they leveraged Language Learning models (LLM)using statistics and GPT solutions for rapid automation in customer service for Mylead.global is a platform that allows influencers to earn money. As a result, MyLead.global was able to screen influencers faster and better for their big brand clients.

AI-Powered Use Cases from across the board panel discussion

Leaders Saira Kazmi Ph. D. (CVS Health), Matthew Blakemore (Creative Industries Council) Taha Mokfi (HelloFresh), Kriti Kohli (Shopify), and Kris Perez (Data Force) share how they use chatbots, improving both the buyer and seller experience using AI. How AI can be used in video games to identify levels of violence and how AI can improve in healthcare and Radiology reducing the amount of time images are read while improving accuracy and detail. 

Another interesting Panel was by Tim Delesio CTO of techolution

Tim asked What’s driving the explosive rise of AI all of a Sudden?

The answer is the economics of the labor market.

On the demand side, he cited labor shortages and persistent high inflation. 

On the supply side, he cites the rise of ChatGPT and, major scientific and Technological breakthroughs in the past five to seven years. 

He shared trends in AI for 2024 that include:

Physical Labor with AI to help deliver small batch sizes with high-precision quality control

Improved customer engagement by providing a new generation of customer service agents using Generative AI 

Tim demonstrated some of these trends when he ordered a soda using an AI-powered robotic arm. 

The booth had another machine showing how AI can enhance inventory management when items are ordered. 

I was amazed to see some AI Tech that techolution brought to the marketplace.

On that note, I saw an AI-powered Kiosk by Graphen where a man ordered his food and paid. This company is using AI to revolutionize all industries.

Man orders food AI Kiosk

Man pays for food at AI Kiosk

There were so many great talks and exhibits. 

Additional pictures can be found on Instagram. 

I want to thank the AI Summit for having me as their guest. If you want to use AI and Generative to improve business outcomes, sign up for the AI summit in your city.

What do you think is next for AI and Generative AI?

Comment and share below.

Additional pictures can be found on Instagram. 

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LEV (Korps Adopt)

Meet "Lev", created by Kraken, creator of the Korps setting, and adopted from the Digital Villainy Summit charity auction. Lev awakened in a Korps base with no memories, just some mysterious implants and a tube-top that read either "80-LEV" or "VEL-08" in Korps cipher. Unfortunately, there was nobody there to explain things as the base was being rapidly evacuated amidst a Cape attack. After fending off a hero who decided to "punch first, ask questions never" Lev picked up some weapons the Korps left behind and be very uncooperative. And she'll need those weapons, because somethings else that got left behind are stirring in the bowels of the base that she's claimed as her home. Augmentations: - Prosthetic eye: Lev can interface with the remnants of the base's security systems through her prosthetic left eye. Can view camera feeds from anywhere with functional sensors and trigger automated defenses, but takes up part of her field of view. - Reinforced shoulder: Lev's right shoulder is reinforced with some sort of semi-metallic cords that give her a hell of a swing.

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