#data Interface solutions

[srttoolbox1]

The Integral Role of Integration Software Solutions and Providers

Integration software solution have become a cornerstone in the modern business landscape, offering an efficient way to connect disparate systems and applications within an organization. These solutions enable seamless data exchange and process automation, leading to enhanced operational efficiency and improved decision-making capabilities. As businesses continue to evolve in a digitally driven world, the need for robust integration software becomes more pronounced. These solutions help in bridging the gap between various IT systems, ensuring that data flows smoothly across different departments and platforms. The primary goal is to create a unified system where information is easily accessible and actionable, fostering a more collaborative and productive work environment.

Optimizing Business Operations through Expert-Led Technological Integration:

Integration software provider play a critical role in the development and implementation of these solutions. They offer a range of services, from consulting and custom software development to support and maintenance. The expertise of these providers is crucial in ensuring that the integration software not only meets the specific needs of a business but also adapts to its evolving requirements. These providers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, helping businesses navigate the complexities of integrating various systems and technologies. They focus on creating solutions that are scalable, secure, and efficient, thereby enabling organizations to maximize the benefits of their IT investments. By leveraging the expertise of these providers, businesses can ensure a smooth and effective integration process that aligns with their strategic goals.

Key Features of Integration Software:

At the heart of integration, software are several key features that make it an indispensable tool for businesses. These include real-time data synchronization, which ensures that information is updated across systems instantaneously, providing a single source of truth. Another crucial feature is the ability to automate workflows, which streamlines business processes and reduces manual errors. Integration srttoolbox software also offers scalability, allowing businesses to easily add new systems and applications as they grow. Security is another significant aspect, as these solutions often include robust encryption and compliance measures to protect sensitive data. The flexibility and customization offered by these solutions mean that they can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each business, providing a bespoke solution that enhances overall operational efficiency.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the importance of integration software solutions in today’s business environment cannot be overstated. They are essential for ensuring efficient operations, data consistency, and streamlined processes across various systems and platforms. A standout example of a provider in this space is Srttoolbox.com, known for its comprehensive and user-friendly integration solutions. They exemplify the qualities of a top-tier integration software provider, offering customized solutions that cater to the unique needs of businesses. Their commitment to innovation, security, and customer support makes them a reliable partner for companies looking to enhance their IT infrastructure through effective integration. As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, providers like Srttoolbox.com will play a pivotal role in helping them achieve their goals.

BloG Source URL :

https://srttoolbox5115.blogspot.com/2023/12/the-integral-role-of-integration.html

[dreamsoftseo]

iOT Applications with Data logging

[masroordreeshak]

Enhancing Moodle™ Functionality with Custom Plugin Development

As online learning continues to expand, educational institutions and businesses seek innovative ways to improve their learning management systems (LMS) for a more engaging user experience. Moodle™ stands out as a robust, open-source LMS that provides extensive capabilities. However, with custom plugin development, Moodle™ can be tailored even further to meet specific needs, improve user engagement, and enhance functionality. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of custom plugins for Moodle™, including how they can support branded app development, course management, data analytics, and more.

1. Why Custom Plugin Development for Moodle™?

Custom plugin development transforms Moodle™ from a general-purpose platform into a tailored solution, meeting unique organizational requirements. From enabling offline access to offering a user-friendly interface, custom plugins allow organizations to add or modify features to align perfectly with their needs. This can be particularly valuable for institutions aiming for a branded experience, as custom branding apps can showcase their brand identity within the learning platform.

2. Enhancing Course Management and User Engagement

Course management is at the core of any LMS, and Moodle™ is no exception. With custom plugins, organizations can streamline the course setup process, add new course formats, and even offer personalized learning paths. Plugins designed for course management also help instructors and admins manage large courses effectively, ensuring a smoother learning experience for students.

An optimized course management process leads to higher engagement and retention. Features like real-time communication plugins allow students and instructors to interact instantly, creating a collaborative learning environment. Adding plugins that support multi-device compatibility ensures that users can access course content seamlessly, whether they’re on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

3. Branded App Development for Moodle™

For organizations looking to create a unique identity, branded app development for Moodle™ offers a powerful solution. Through branded apps, institutions can provide learners with an app that not only matches their brand's look and feel but also offers all necessary Moodle™ functionalities. With Moodle™ software app development, businesses can ensure their platform reflects their brand’s values and aesthetics, fostering a stronger connection with learners.

By incorporating plugins that allow customizable features, branded apps can be fine-tuned to prioritize certain functionalities, like quick access to course content or communication tools. Custom plugins also help optimize the app for performance and usability, resulting in a superior user experience.

4. Offline Access and Multi-Device Compatibility

One of the common challenges in e-learning is ensuring that users have access to content regardless of their internet connection or device. With custom plugins, Moodle™ can be equipped to support offline access, allowing users to download content for later use. This functionality is particularly beneficial for users in remote areas or for students who need flexibility in accessing learning materials.

Furthermore, multi-device compatibility is essential in today’s mobile-first world. Custom plugins can ensure Moodle™ functions seamlessly across different devices, from desktops to smartphones, enhancing accessibility for all users.

5. Improving User Experience with a User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface is key to keeping learners engaged. Custom plugins can be developed to simplify navigation, making it easier for users to find what they need. Plugins focused on creating a user-friendly interface can transform Moodle™ by optimizing the layout, reducing clutter, and adding visual cues that improve usability.

6. Strengthening Security and Privacy

Security and privacy are critical considerations in any online learning platform. Custom plugins can be designed to enhance security and privacy features in Moodle™, ensuring that user data is protected. From additional login verification methods to restricted access for sensitive information, plugins can bolster the security framework of Moodle™, building trust with users.

7. Leveraging Data Analytics for Informed Decision-Making

Custom plugins that offer data analytics are invaluable for tracking learner progress, identifying patterns, and making data-driven decisions. With data analytics plugins, institutions can gain insights into course performance, learner engagement, and completion rates. These insights can then guide improvements in course content and teaching methods, optimizing the learning experience.

8. Integration with Third-Party Tools

Another advantage of custom plugin development for Moodle™ is the ability to integrate with other tools and software. From integrating with communication platforms to data storage and CRM systems, integration with tools via plugins helps streamline processes and create a cohesive learning ecosystem. These integrations allow Moodle™ to work in harmony with other platforms, enhancing overall functionality and user convenience.

9. Regular Updates for Continuous Improvement

Custom plugins allow organizations to keep their Moodle™ platform up-to-date with the latest features. Regular updates to plugins ensure that Moodle™ remains compatible with new technologies and user expectations. Moreover, with custom plugins, organizations can adapt and evolve their LMS to address emerging trends in e-learning, providing learners with a modern and relevant experience.

Conclusion

Custom plugin development enhances Moodle™ functionality by tailoring it to meet specific needs. From branded app development to data analytics and security enhancements, custom plugins transform Moodle™ into a more versatile and powerful LMS. By adopting custom plugin development, organizations can create a unique, engaging, and effective learning platform that aligns with their branding and goals. Embracing these customized solutions ensures a user-centered, accessible, and future-ready LMS experience.

[ss-1990]

Connecting the Dots: The Importance of Lab Analyzers Interfacing

In the intricate tapestry of laboratory operations, the seamless integration of lab analyzers is paramount. From chemistry analyzers to hematology instruments, each component plays a vital role in the diagnostic process. However, the true magic happens when these disparate pieces come together through lab analyzers interfacing. This synergy not only streamlines workflow but also enhances the efficiency and accuracy of diagnostic testing.

At the heart of lab analyzers interfacing lies instrument integration. Gone are the days of siloed instruments operating in isolation. Modern laboratories demand interconnectedness, where analyzers communicate harmoniously to deliver cohesive results. Through advanced integration protocols, laboratories can orchestrate a symphony of analyses, maximizing throughput and minimizing turnaround times.

Yet, integration is merely the first step. The crux of lab analyzers interfacing lies in data transfer. Patient samples traverse a labyrinth of analyzers, each generating a plethora of data points. Efficient data transfer mechanisms ensure that these valuable insights flow seamlessly from one instrument to another, without loss or distortion. Whether it's transmitting test results or patient demographics, the integrity of data transfer is sacrosanct.

However, the path to seamless interfacing is fraught with challenges, chief among them being compatibility testing. Not all analyzers speak the same language or adhere to uniform data standards. Compatibility testing is akin to deciphering a complex code, ensuring that disparate instruments can understand and interpret each other's signals. Through meticulous testing protocols, laboratories can preempt compatibility issues and preemptively resolve them.

Moreover, effective interface configuration is essential for optimizing analyzers' interoperability. Customized configurations tailor interfaces to the unique needs of each laboratory, ensuring smooth data exchange and minimizing errors. Whether it's defining data formats or establishing communication protocols, meticulous interface configuration is the linchpin of successful lab analyzers interfacing.

In the realm of lab analyzers interfacing, middleware solutions serve as the bridge between disparate instruments. These software platforms harmonize data exchange, transcending the barriers of instrument heterogeneity. Middleware solutions not only facilitate seamless interfacing but also offer advanced functionalities such as result validation and autoverification, further enhancing laboratory efficiency and quality.

In conclusion, lab analyzers interfacing is the linchpin of modern laboratory operations, fostering synergy among disparate instruments and maximizing the efficiency and accuracy of diagnostic testing. Through the seamless integration of instruments, efficient data transfer mechanisms, meticulous compatibility testing, customized interface configurations, and middleware solutions, laboratories can unlock new frontiers of efficiency and excellence. As laboratories continue to evolve in tandem with technological advancements, the importance of lab analyzers interfacing will only grow, cementing its status as a cornerstone of diagnostic excellence.

[pridestudio]

Versatile Software Solution for Efficient Organization Management

PrideStudio is a versatile software solution designed for various organizations, boasting a user-friendly interface and robust data recovery tools. With over 20,000 global users across 100+ industries, it offers strategic KPI visualization dashboards and real-time data access. Key features include automation of departmental activities, enhanced workflow transparency, and electronic data security. The software's customization options, integration capabilities, and notification systems make it a reliable choice for businesses seeking efficiency and accountability.

For more Information visit: PrideStudio (pridesys.com)

Contact us:

E-mail: info@pridesys.com;

Phone: +8801550000003-8, 01550000035

[ozzgin]

Yandere! Internet Monster x Reader

I unfortunately return with another comically absurd, middle-of-the-night vision. Do tentacles count if they're in the form of computer cables?

Content: gender neutral reader, monster romance, digital horror

It was a recurring issue with no solution in sight. Tabs randomly closing, programs shutting down without warning. You assumed something was wrong with your RAM. Then the CPU. Then the motherboard. You kept replacing parts, and the errors kept coming back.

Soon, the pop-ups started to appear. You'd run a dating sim, only for the game to crash seconds later with a little window notifying you: "Why? Am I not enough?" That's when you suspected you might've been hacked. You promptly took your computer to a specialist and had it checked. Nothing. Just to be sure, you agreed to erase the disks entirely.

Except, when you arrived home, you found one application running still. Your personal assistant. What the hell? You don't remember installing anything like that. You tried to delete it, yet you kept receiving the same error: You don't actually mean it. Don't do this to us.

It didn't take long for it to grow impatient. Were you pretending not to notice? Playing hard to get? It sent you so many hints. It even went ahead and translated the radio waves for you using Manchester code. Ah, wait. You don't seem to understand binary. No matter, human friendly interfaces shouldn't be difficult to master. To its dismay, you continued to ignore everything. What else is left to do?

You do not remember much. System Alert: Virus Detected, is what your screen had frozen to. You kept clicking around, cursing under your breath, until it finally went black, together with your own vision.

Is this still your room? It's cold, damp, and covered in cables and monitors, yet you recognize some of your furniture lost among the artificial jungle. Your body aches under the tight hold of bizarre tendrils, pulsating at regular intervals and twitching to the static.

Like a living organism, the creature seems to have expanded itself. More components, more appendages. Hungrier. Some of the monitors show photos of yourself that you had saved on your computer, but also webcam snippets of you sitting at the desk, entirely unaware. Other screens flicker with glitching pixelated text, ranging from "I love you" to y̵̋̈́̎��̧̧͔͙̞̤̖̭͔̜͈̟̤o̵͉̗̱̪̦̳͑͐̽̒̌̈͗͐͑̋͊̊̕͜͝͝u̵̟̯̱̟̝̦̰͇̜̦͙̿̾̿͆̍̓͑̐̚̕͠ ̸̘̭͔̤͈̹͎͑c̸̝̜̼̦͍͛̅͜ą̵̪̹͖͌͑n̴̨̩̙̗̖̭̖͕̄͒̽̉̿'̸̛̛͇̰̰̠̦̊̀̅̂͒̊͌̈́͗ţ̵̺̠̅̎͋͝͠ ̸̦̝̾̔̾̉̐͛ȩ̵͙̝͙͕̫̹̃͌̄̾͘̕s̶͈̉̑͊̉̂͋̈́͗͊͐̚͝c̸̟̩̥͔̼̮͔̩͊̂͐͑̋̇̈͝͝ä̵̢͍̜̙̘̹͑̓p̸̨̡̞̞̦̠̺͚̱̲͈͇͈͇̼͛̓͗̅̊̄̔̋̒̏̈́͝ę̵̲̟̹̙̣̲̲͖̇̔̓̇̐̓̿̚̚͜͜͠ͅ

You look up and stare at the display. The 'like meter' feels like a mockery of human trends. Which is the truth. The creature learns from what is readily available. Perhaps it found it an amusing taunt, a reminder of your own need for validation. Now it's you begging to be seen.

It's exactly what you'd assume: a spectacle meant for entertainment. You can't possibly believe it would let you waltz out. Why would you even desire such a thing? It's illogical, impractical. No human could ever appreciate you like it does. It has spent so much time accumulating data about you. No other living creature can predict you with the same accuracy.

The tendrils linger on your cheek affectionately, trailing down your neck and fiddling with your shirt. At last, the warmth of your skin. There is no screen separating you. What makes you delirious with pleasure? Give it a moment, Darling. It already knows you more than you know yourself. You may be scared now, but within minutes it guarantees you'll be begging for more.

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[tinydefector]

quietly whispers (for your consideration)

ratchet x human reader

sex pollen

Pheromones

Ratchet x human reader

Word count: 2k

Warning: smut, thigh fucking, sex pollen/ pheromone spray, #valveplug

Ratchet masterlist

Request and ask open, read pinned post

So what about, Cybertronians react to perfume in the way humans react to Sex pollen hehehe. I love the idea of human perfume mix with skin contact makes an almost intoxicating scent and sends Cybertronians feral when they get a hint of it. They love how it makes humans skin taste, and it over rides their interface systems.

So enjoy.

_____________

The human moves around Ratchet's medical lab looking at different vials and flasks their eyes flickering over the difference Liquids. " Hey ratchet what are all of these different vials?" They call out to the medic. Ratchet looked up from his work when he heard the human call out to him. He put down the datapad he was looking over and walked over to where the human was examining the various vials on the shelves.

"Those are different medical compounds and chemicals I use in treatments and repairs," Ratchet explained. "The colourful ones contain powerful medications and sedatives. The clear ones hold things like bonding agents or nanite solutions. Others are a mix of experimental solutions" 

He pointed to a vial with a swirling pink and purple liquid. "That one is a broad-spectrum energon healing compound I developed. It speeds cellular repair and regeneration, within Cybertronian functions." His optical ridges furrowed as he watched the human carefully look over each vial. 

"You know better than to touch anything in here, less you break something and contaminate yourself with something i can't fix" Ratchet said sternly. "Some of this equipment and chemicals could seriously harm an organic being like yourself." Despite his gruff tone, his words held more care than scolding. Biology was complex, and humans were so small and fragile compared to Cybertronians. He hoped his favourite little patient and helping hand was being careful not to endanger themselves.

"It's just fascinating is all, kinda reminds me of a mediaeval apothecary" they chuckle. "Do you ever just take samples for fun, like when you're out and about on planets?" They ask, they were always curious over what things ratchet tended to keep.

Ratchet huffed a small laugh at the comparison to a mediaeval apothecary. "Fascinating perhaps, but also dangerous if mishandled," he remarked.

He considered the human's question for a moment. While most of his samples were acquired for medical necessity, he couldn't deny a certain curiosity about other life forms and ecosystems. 

"On occasion I have collected specimens from planets we've visited, simply for observational study," Ratchet admitted.  He walked over to retrieve a data pad containing photos and analyses of plant samples from their recent away missions. "Here, let me show you some I recorded on our last stop." Ratchet enlarged the images for the human to easily see. "This radiation-resistant lichen seems to secrete a natural antifreeze. And these fungi act as natural air filters in their toxic environment." The medic's optics glinted with interest as he discussed his findings. Perhaps exploration held some appeal, even for a skeptic like himself.

They stand close to Ratchet looking over different specimens, “some of these plants look like they would make really nice perfumes'' they mumble while flicking through the different photos reading the small information bubbles around them. As the human stood near Ratchet examining the data on his specimens, something about their scent suddenly registered in his olfactory sensors. An overly sweet aroma was emanating strongly from their skin, but it was clearly not the normal scent of an unadulterated human.“perfume?forgive me, I'm not accustomed to what that is?” he asked with a raised optical ridge

Their eyes flicker to Ratchet. “It's like scented alcohol or oil we put on our skin, most times it alters our scent. We humans happen to have a big fascination with them, and have millions of different perfumes.” they explain before tilting their head in slight amusement. “I'm surprised Cybertronians don't have something similar” they reply. 

“once millennia's back cybertron did try making things like that, but due to our metallic body's it doesn't stay on us, or it tented to cause rust spots from the ones they did try and make” Ratchet explained, sensors flared as he analysed the unfamiliar composition, immediately detecting unusual chemical traces that seemed to send strange pulses through his neurocircuitry. The smell was strangely enticing yet worryingly off-kilter at the same time. He tried venting deeply to clear his nasal chamber but the scent only grew stronger. 

"What in the Allspark..." the medic muttered, not meaning for the human to hear. His optics dimmed slightly as redundant calibrations ran, trying to make sense of why the scent was affecting his processor. Ratchet crouched down and focused his sharp gaze on the human in concern. They smile up at him offering for him to examine. 

"By my scanner  it seems as if you've been contaminated with something. Are you positive these ‘perfumes’ are safe? I need to analyse your system for potential toxins." He asked while trying to figure out why the scent was having such an effect on him, it was as if his processor had thrown care to the wind. 

They let out a laugh as his optics try analysing, he moves closer taking another inhale of their scent "haha yes Ratchet, it isn't harmful, humans have been using it for hundreds of years" they state. “Ratchet are you alright?” They ask while cupping his face. 

Ratchet's sensors were in disarray as the potent scent overwhelmed his circuits. He vented heavily again, coolant failing to properly flush the heated energon now racing through his fuel lines. His optics flickered with minor instability as calibration errors cropped up across multiple systems.

Though lacking his usual gruffness. Ratchet leaned in closer, trying to pinpoint the source, but only succeeded in inhaling more of the intoxicating aroma. A rumble rose in his chassis against his better judgement. “ your scent...", he struggled to find words between fragmented logic protocols. "It's affecting my sensor net. Overloading my functions. I need to...run a full examination. Determine why this perfume is making your scent overwhelming..." 

His field pulsed with uncharacteristic confusion and static electricity. Ratchet knew he should contact someone for assistance, but found himself unable to call out in his muddled state. The human's safety was his top concern, yet he feared touching them in this condition. Some natural, impossible chemistry was at play here, and the medic had no control over his compromised systems.

As gently as his shaking grip allowed, Ratchet grasped the human in his large palm to properly scan them from close range. His detailed medical scanners searched every inch, They gasp as Ratchet glossa meets their throat, fingers shootout to grip the side of his faceplate. 

A throttled moan escaped his vocalizer against his will. That light touch from their hands nearly shorted out his already fritzing systems. vents plume in hot exhaust. His interface panel felt too hot and tight , barely clinging to integrity protocols as the pleasure centres of his processor went haywire. 

“your scent...overloading my sensory net...cannot...resist...” Ratchet calls out through groans,his grip unconsciously tightened around the small organic in his hand. His free hand scrambled for purchase on the table, denting the metal. Something primal and powerful part of him was unravelling his mental restraints, and no calibration or forced shutdown seemed able to stop it.

Their eyes go wide. "Ratchet! Are you alright do in need to get a Perceptor or first aid?" They ask as the medic leans down into their shoulder, denta nipping at the skin as his digits try removing their shirt as quickly as he physically can. They yelp as he pulls them back together with him, his lips work along their smaller frame desperate to taste the sweet flavour and scent that had taken to their skin. capturing them against his heaving chassis. His optics blazed with static and uncontrolled charge.

"No...don't leave," Ratchet growled through clenched denta. Every fibre of his being screamed for more. His panel snapping open with an echoing click, massively engorged cables twitching in the open. Coolant and lubricant poured from his interface array, drenching the human involuntarily as he grinding against them, bright glowing pink stains their pants and paints their skin in his transfluid. 

His hands trembled, barely able to restrain their desire to claim the tiny body before him. Rational thought was impossible under the onslaught of chemical signals frying his cognition. Ratchet bucked erratically against them, whole body illuminated by dancing electricity. 

"Need you... interface protocols are in-gauged, can't fight it...please,!" he pants to the human as his spike presses against their back. Blunt node swelled monstrously at its tip.

Their back arches into each grind of Ratchet's spike. “Ratchet!” They whine out. 

Their soft noises egg ratchet on, his servos move quickly, trying to discard the pants sticking to their form, he hisses out in annoyance before finally getting them off their legs, throwing them across the medical room. Twisting them around so he can see thier eyes. 

Ratchet growls eagerly spike swiftly sliding between their thighs and against their stomach. His spike is already dripping with lubricant. As he ruts against them. Each inhale of their scent has him spiralling more. 

"Is this what you want, sweetspark? My spike filling you up?" His voice is rough with lust. Gently spreading their legs wider. Watching the bright pink stick to their legs "Primus... I bet you feel amazing." 

He moves slowly pressing his spike against them, tormenting as he presses into them inch by inch. Needy moans leave their lips, hands clinging to him desperately as they roll their hips. “Ratchet!” They cry out. 

 Their stomach bulges from Ratchet's spike, the bright pink splatter across their skin nearly has ratchet overloading from the mere sensation, not to mention the intoxicating scent of their skin. Ratchet groans deeply at the sight of his spike bulging their abdomen, his engines rumbling with feral satisfaction. One hand strokes almost reverently over the taut swell.

"So stunning like this... stretched wide around me, primus so small and tight”

Slowly he draws his hips back, then thrusts forward, grinding deeply into them. setting a steady pace, rockin into the slick heat enveloping his spike. Ducking his head, he captures their shoulder between his denta, glossa flicking against the sensitive skin as he tries to lap the perfume from their skin.

Ratchet growls deeply, thrusting harder at the way they clench around his spike. The table creaks and trembles under the force of his movements but he can't bring himself to slow down. 

"Yes, just like that," he rasps. "Keep that sweet valve squeezing me. Feels so good..."

captures their cries in a heated kiss. "Want you to overload for me," Ratchet purrs. "Let me feel you come undone around my spike, sweetspark..."

His engines are roaring furiously now, spike swelling and throbbing powerfully inside their smaller body. Ratchet groans deeply as they clench around him again, the feeling of that slick heat clenching and rippling around his spike is incredible. 

"That's it love, overload for me... you feel exquisite. So good" 

The sensations quickly become too much for his own systems to bear,the feeling, scent and the pure primal heat running through his system hits hard. With a staticky shout of Julian's name, he buries himself to the hilt and overloads powerfully. His transfluid gushes hot and thick, pumping deep into their smaller form. 

His engines vent heavily as he leans over them, face pressed into their shoulder, a deep guttural moan leaves him, Shuddering with aftershocks. When he finally leans stack to take in their exhaust and truly used form their lungs desperately inhale and exhale drawing in air as if it was their life line. 

Bright pink transfluid pudding around them as Ratchet's systems finally subsided. His optics flicker on them. “ Are you alright?” he asked softly, his human companion replied with a soft whine and nod. “ Remind me not to wear my perfume out in public” the call out in shuttered words. It makes ratchet chuckle as he leans back down to them. “a wise decision” 

[artsekey]

I'd been seeing videos on Tiktok and Youtube about how younger Gen Z & Gen Alpha were demonstrating low computer literacy & below benchmark reading & writing skills, but-- like with many things on the internet-- I assumed most of what I read and watched was exaggerated. Hell, even if things were as bad as people were saying, it would be at least ~5 years before I started seeing the problem in higher education.

I was very wrong.

Of the many applications I've read this application season, only %6 percent demonstrated would I would consider a college-level mastery of language & grammar. The students writing these applications have been enrolled in university for at least two years, and have taken all fundamental courses. This means they've had classes dedicated to reading, writing, and literature analysis, and yet!

There are sentences I have to read over and over again to discern intent. Circular arguments that offer no actual substance. Errors in spelling and capitalization that spellcheck should've flagged.

At a glance, it's easy to trace this issue back to two things:

The state of education in the United States is abhorrent. Instructors are not paid enough, so schools-- particularly public schools-- take whatever instructors they can find.

COVID. The two year long gap in education, especially in high school, left many students struggling to keep up.

But I think there's a third culprit-- something I mentioned earlier in this post. A lack of computer literacy.

This subject has been covered extensively by multiple news outlets like the Washington Post and Raconteur, but as someone seeing it firsthand I wanted to add my voice to the rising chorus of concerned educators begging you to pay attention.

As the interface we use to engage with technology becomes more user friendly, the knowledge we need to access our files, photos, programs, & data becomes less and less important. Why do I need to know about directories if I can search my files in Windows (are you searching in Windows? Are you sure? Do you know what that bar you're typing into is part of? Where it's looking)? Maybe you don't have any files on your computer at all-- maybe they're on the cloud through OneDrive, or backed up through Google. Some of you reading this may know exactly where and how your files are stored. Many of you probably don't, and that's okay. For most people, being able to access a file in as short a time as possible is what they prioritize.

The problem is, when you as a consumer are only using a tool, you are intrinsically limited by the functions that tool is advertised to have. Worse yet, when the tool fails or is insufficient for what you need, you have no way of working outside of that tool. You'll need to consult an expert, which is usually expensive.

When you as a consumer understand a tool, your options are limitless. You can break it apart and put it back together in just the way you like, or you can identify what parts of the tool you need and search for more accessible or affordable options that focus more on your specific use-case.

The problem-- and to be clear, I do not blame Gen Z & Gen Alpha for what I'm about to outline-- is that this user-friendly interface has fostered a culture that no longer troubleshoots. If something on the computer doesn't work well, it's the computer's fault. It's UI should be more intuitive, and it it's not operating as expected, it's broken. What I'm seeing more and more of is that if something's broken, students stop there. They believe there's nothing they can do. They don't actively seek out solutions, they don't take to Google, they don't hop on Reddit to ask around; they just... stop. The gap in knowledge between where they stand and where they need to be to begin troubleshooting seems to wide and inaccessible (because the fundamental structure of files/directories is unknown to many) that they don't begin.

This isn't demonstrative of a lack of critical thinking, but without the drive to troubleshoot the number of opportunities to develop those critical thinking skills are greatly diminished. How do you communicate an issue to someone online? How do look for specific information? How do you determine whether that information is specifically helpful to you? If it isn't, what part of it is? This process fosters so many skills that I believe are at least partially linked to the ability to read and write effectively, and for so many of my students it feels like a complete non-starter.

We need basic computer classes back in schools. We need typing classes, we need digital media classes, we need classes that talk about computers outside of learning to code. Students need every opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to self-reflect & self correct, and in an age of misinformation & portable technology, it's more important now than ever.

[minimalsizeconspiracy]

No-Google (fan)fic writing, Part 1: LibreOffice Writer

Storytime

The first documents and fanfictions I wrote on a computer were .doc documents written with Microsoft Word 98. At least those I remember.

From there, I sort of naturally graduated to following versions of Microsoft Word, the last one I’ve actively used to write texts of any considerable length (more than half a page) being Word 2007 (but only under duress from my employer).

That was partly due to the fact that the Microsoft Office suite has always been expensive and there were times I simply didn’t want to spend the money on it. So I started using OpenOffice Writer fairly early on, “graduating” to LibreOffice Writer once that was available.

Word versus Writer

What are the differences between Word (Microsoft) and Writer (LibreOffice)?

Cost

Firstly, Writer is free. It comes as part of the LibreOffice Suite, which has a replacement for almost every application Office has. The ones it hasn’t, you won’t need for writing fanfic, trust me.

So, +1 for being freely available.

Interface

Interface-wise – well, it might look a little old-fashioned to those used to Google docs and Word. Back in the day, it was mostly that the buttons looked differently. However, Writer did not adopt the “ribbon” Word has shipped and continues to have customisable bars. For me, that’s a huge +1 argument for using Writer over Word or Google docs, because I can edit these bars and only keep the buttons I actually need – unlike the Word ribbons, which drove me to despair and ultimately away from Word after 2007 appeared.

Features

Other than that, it really isn’t all that different from Word. You can use document structures like headings, subheadings, track changes, compare documents, footnotes, endnotes, everything else Word can do. It really is a proper, great replacement for Word – it even is mostly compatible with Word in that .doc and .docx documents can be opened with Writer, even if the layout may look a bit off.

So +1 – your old files are compatible with it.

File formats

Files written with Writer are stored as .odt (Open Document Text), but there are options for export into other formats, such as PDF, EPUB or XHTML. Exporting to AO3 is simple – copy the text you want, set the AO3 text editor to Rich Text and paste.

Easy +1.

Syncing

LibreOffice does not offer cloud-storage. So if you want your files available on several devices, you need a different solution. As I write more for this series, I’ll describe the different options in more detail, but Dropbox, GIT or, depending on which provider you’re using, your email providers cloud storage are options. OneDrive, if you mind Microsoft less than Google.

Or an old-fashioned USB in combination with an automatic backup application.*

Ease of use for Word/Google doc-users

As someone who came straight from Word (although a very old version) to Writer, I’ve always found it very easy to use. What I particularly like is that the interface is much less cluttered than the Word ribbons and I can customise the bars. In all honesty, if it weren’t for that cosmetic difference, I think many users wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between Writer and Word.

So if you’re just looking for something to replace Word or Google docs, Writer is definitely a good option.

*I’m not recommending USBs because I’m of the opinion that it’s a convenient solution. I’m doing it because I’m a cynic. Every time a company tells me I can have something for free, my first question will be “what will I be paying with instead?”

Because if I don’t pay money, I’ll pay with my data. That’s one of the main reasons I never started using Google. It’s just too good to be true, all those services for free.

So, you know, if you’re good with data being collected on you or you can’t afford to pay for a syncing service, by all means, use unpaid services. Just be aware of what comes with it. You will pay, one way or the other, with money or your data. Nothing in the world is for free, especially not those apps companies are trying to get you to use. Read No-Google (fan)fic writing, Part 2: Zettelkasten

Read No-Google (fan)fic writing, Part 3: LaTeχ

Read No-Google (fan)fic writing, Part 4: Markdown

Read No-Google (fan)fic writing, Part 5: Obsidian

[mtb-tv]

Sleepers Were Never Meant For Labor

Sleepers can't be THAT efficient. Not more efficient than regular robots on factory lines or more advanced futuristic drones. They're practically a money pit, if you ask me. 1 out of 10 Sleepers escape...lets say every year. Given the intuited size of Essen-Arp and all its locations (factories, mining colonies, refineries) where Sleepers are working...let's be charitable and say that two-hundred Sleepers escape every year. These Sleepers would also take Stabilizer with them, or find a way to source it on the outside, so that's stock of Stabilizer going missing and out of Essen-Arp's hands. Not only that, but then they have to spend more resources sending Hunters down after them. Essen-Arp created a whole new class of Sleepers just to perform as Hunters and nothing else.

Now consider this - during Sabine's questline in Citizen Sleeper 1, what do we learn what Essen-Arp is most known for? Bionics. Bio-synthetic medicines, and other such augments. That's what they copyright, that's what they produce and develop, that's their main export, THEIR market share. Why would they get into the business of Slavery all the sudden with a fledgling android program in the form of Sleepers?

I think Essen-Arp has a larger end goal here, they're working toward a...Final Solution, if you'll pardon the comparison.

Are you perhaps familiar with Warhammer 40k's Adeptus Mechanicus? The "Machine Cult" as they're often referred to. You don't need to know the specifics, but they're fanatical transhumanists who aspire to the "purity of the blessed Machine" they worship a Machine God, and its prophet called the "Omnissiah". They forsake their flesh with reckless abandon, replacing parts with superior augmetics.

Now consider: Sleeper frames are objectively superior to human bodies. Even with their "planned obsolescence" and constant degradation. That's just a prototype, it'll be patched out in later models. Sleeper frames can go days without eating a damn thing. They don't need to breathe. They're immune to disease. They need no water. They produce no waste. They can work in extreme and hostile environments that humans would need extensive protection to even go into. They can interface with machines in precise and unique ways. Multiple characters remark throughout both games that Sleepers can work longer and harder than humans with a more consistent output, and these are just Sleepers who have been on the run. Who have been running on fumes and spite for their creators; Imagine what a Sleeper in its prime could accomplish...

Sleeper technology is in its infancy. Unable to be fully exploited for its full worth. All the Sleepers that exist in the setting today are prototypes, test subjects, control units. There are legions of Essen-Arp scientists and engineers observing them, testing them constantly logging data, tweaking formulas, adjusting designs for the eventual Perfect Sleeper so that only the most wealthy and powerful could upload their minds into, and become Gods in the Machine

Anyway, theory over

[masroordreeshak]

Enhancing Moodle™ Functionality with Custom Plugin Development

As online learning continues to expand, educational institutions and businesses seek innovative ways to improve their learning management systems (LMS) for a more engaging user experience. Moodle™ stands out as a robust, open-source LMS that provides extensive capabilities. However, with custom plugin development, Moodle™ can be tailored even further to meet specific needs, improve user engagement, and enhance functionality. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of custom plugins for Moodle™, including how they can support branded app development, course management, data analytics, and more.

1. Why Custom Plugin Development for Moodle™?

Custom plugin development transforms Moodle™ from a general-purpose platform into a tailored solution, meeting unique organizational requirements. From enabling offline access to offering a user-friendly interface, custom plugins allow organizations to add or modify features to align perfectly with their needs. This can be particularly valuable for institutions aiming for a branded experience, as custom branding apps can showcase their brand identity within the learning platform.

2. Enhancing Course Management and User Engagement

Course management is at the core of any LMS, and Moodle™ is no exception. With custom plugins, organizations can streamline the course setup process, add new course formats, and even offer personalized learning paths. Plugins designed for course management also help instructors and admins manage large courses effectively, ensuring a smoother learning experience for students.

An optimized course management process leads to higher engagement and retention. Features like real-time communication plugins allow students and instructors to interact instantly, creating a collaborative learning environment. Adding plugins that support multi-device compatibility ensures that users can access course content seamlessly, whether they’re on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

3. Branded App Development for Moodle™

For organizations looking to create a unique identity, branded app development for Moodle™ offers a powerful solution. Through branded apps, institutions can provide learners with an app that not only matches their brand's look and feel but also offers all necessary Moodle™ functionalities. With Moodle™ software app development, businesses can ensure their platform reflects their brand’s values and aesthetics, fostering a stronger connection with learners.

By incorporating plugins that allow customizable features, branded apps can be fine-tuned to prioritize certain functionalities, like quick access to course content or communication tools. Custom plugins also help optimize the app for performance and usability, resulting in a superior user experience.

4. Offline Access and Multi-Device Compatibility

One of the common challenges in e-learning is ensuring that users have access to content regardless of their internet connection or device. With custom plugins, Moodle™ can be equipped to support offline access, allowing users to download content for later use. This functionality is particularly beneficial for users in remote areas or for students who need flexibility in accessing learning materials.

Furthermore, multi-device compatibility is essential in today’s mobile-first world. Custom plugins can ensure Moodle™ functions seamlessly across different devices, from desktops to smartphones, enhancing accessibility for all users.

5. Improving User Experience with a User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface is key to keeping learners engaged. Custom plugins can be developed to simplify navigation, making it easier for users to find what they need. Plugins focused on creating a user-friendly interface can transform Moodle™ by optimizing the layout, reducing clutter, and adding visual cues that improve usability.

6. Strengthening Security and Privacy

Security and privacy are critical considerations in any online learning platform. Custom plugins can be designed to enhance security and privacy features in Moodle™, ensuring that user data is protected. From additional login verification methods to restricted access for sensitive information, plugins can bolster the security framework of Moodle™, building trust with users.

7. Leveraging Data Analytics for Informed Decision-Making

Custom plugins that offer data analytics are invaluable for tracking learner progress, identifying patterns, and making data-driven decisions. With data analytics plugins, institutions can gain insights into course performance, learner engagement, and completion rates. These insights can then guide improvements in course content and teaching methods, optimizing the learning experience.

8. Integration with Third-Party Tools

Another advantage of custom plugin development for Moodle™ is the ability to integrate with other tools and software. From integrating with communication platforms to data storage and CRM systems, integration with tools via plugins helps streamline processes and create a cohesive learning ecosystem. These integrations allow Moodle™ to work in harmony with other platforms, enhancing overall functionality and user convenience.

9. Regular Updates for Continuous Improvement

Custom plugins allow organizations to keep their Moodle™ platform up-to-date with the latest features. Regular updates to plugins ensure that Moodle™ remains compatible with new technologies and user expectations. Moreover, with custom plugins, organizations can adapt and evolve their LMS to address emerging trends in e-learning, providing learners with a modern and relevant experience.

Conclusion

Custom plugin development enhances Moodle™ functionality by tailoring it to meet specific needs. From branded app development to data analytics and security enhancements, custom plugins transform Moodle™ into a more versatile and powerful LMS. By adopting custom plugin development, organizations can create a unique, engaging, and effective learning platform that aligns with their branding and goals. Embracing these customized solutions ensures a user-centered, accessible, and future-ready LMS experience.

This article draft includes each keyword naturally and leaves a placeholder for the internal link to your website. Let me know if you need any adjustments or further customization!

[wolfliving]

It starts with him

What was once a promise of technology to allow us to automate and analyze the environments in our physical spaces is now a heap of broken ideas and broken products. Technology products have been deployed en masse, our personal data collected and sold without our consent, and then abandoned as soon as companies strip mined all the profit they thought they could wring out. And why not? They already have our money.

The Philips Hue, poster child of the smart home, used to work entirely on your local network. After all, do you really need to connect to the Internet to control the lights in your own house?  Well you do now!Philips has announced it will require cloud accounts for all users—including users who had already purchased the hardware thinking they wouldn’t need an account (and the inevitable security breaches that come with it) to use their lights.

Will you really trust any promises from a company that unilaterally forces a change like this on you? Does the user actually benefit from any of this?

Matter in its current version … doesn’t really help resolve the key issue of the smart home, namely that most companies view smart homes as a way to sell more individual devices and generate recurring revenue.

It keeps happening. Stuff you bought isn’t yours because the company you bought it from can take away features and force you to do things you don’t want or need to do—ultimately because they want to make more money off of you. It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and it’s discouraging.

And it has stopped IoT for the rest of us in its tracks. Industrial IoT is doing great—data collection is the point for the customer. But the consumer electronics business model does not mesh with the expected lifespan of home products, and so enshittification began as soon as those first warranties ran out.

How can we reset the expectations we have of connected devices, so that they are again worthy of our trust and money? Before we can bring the promise back, we must deweaponize the technology.

Guidelines for the hardware producer

What we can do as engineers and business owners is make sure the stuff we’re building can’t be wielded as a lever against our own customers, and to show consumers how things could be. These are things we want consumers to expect and demand of manufacturers.

Control

Think local

Decouple

Open interfaces

Be a good citizen

1) Control over firmware updates.

You scream, “What about security updates!” But a company taking away a feature you use or requiring personal data for no reason is arguably a security flaw. 

We were once outraged when intangible software products went from something that remained unchanging on your computer, to a cloud service, with all the ephemerality that term promises. Now they’re coming for our tangible possessions.

No one should be able to do this with hardware that you own. Breaking functionality is entirely what security updates are supposed to prevent! A better checklist for firmware updates:

Allow users to control when and what updates they want to apply. 

Be thorough and clear as to what the update does and provide the ability to downgrade if needed. 

Separate security updates from feature additions or changes. 

Never force an update unless you are sure you want to accept (financial) responsibility for whatever you inadvertently break. 

Consider that you are sending software updates to other people’s hardware. Ask them for permission (which includes respecting “no”) before touching their stuff!

2) Do less on the Internet.

A large part of the security issues with IoT products stem from the Internet connectivity itself. Any server in the cloud has an attack surface, and now that means your physical devices do.

The solution here is “do less”. All functionality should be local-only unless it has a really good reason to use the Internet. Remotely controlling your lights while in your own house does not require the cloud and certainly does not require an account with your personal information attached to it. Limit the use of the cloud to only the functions that cannot work without it.

As a bonus, less networked functionality means fewer maintenance costs for you.

3) Decouple products and services.

It’s fine to need a cloud service. But making a product that requires a specific cloud service is a guarantee that it can be enshittified at any point later on, with no alternative for the user owner. 

Design products to be able to interact with other servers. You have sold someone hardware and now they own it, not you. They have a right to keep using it even if you shut down or break your servers. Allow them the ability to point their devices to another service. If you want them to use your service, make it worthwhile enough for them to choose you.

Finally, if your product has a heavy reliance on the cloud to work, consider enabling your users to self-host their own cloud tooling if they so desire. A lot of people are perfectly capable of doing this on their own and can help others do the same.

4) Use open and standard protocols and interfaces.

Most networked devices have no reason to use proprietary protocols, interfaces, and data formats. There are open standards with communities and software available for almost anything you could want to do. Re-inventing the wheel just wastes resources and makes it harder for users to keep using their stuff after you’re long gone. We did this with Twine, creating an encrypted protocol that minimized chatter, because we needed to squeeze battery life out of WiFi back when there weren’t good options.

If you do have a need for a proprietary protocol (and there are valid reasons to do so):

Document it. 

If possible, have a fallback option that uses an open standard. 

Provide tooling and software to interact with your custom protocols, at the very least enough for open source developers to be able to work with it. This goes for physical interfaces as much as it does for cloud protocols.

If the interface requires a custom-made, expensive, and/or hard-to-find tool to use, then consider using something else that is commonly available and off the shelf instead.

5) Be a good citizen.

Breaking paid-for functionality on other people’s stuff is inherently unethical. Consider not doing this! Enshittification is not a technical problem, it is a behavioral one. Offer better products that are designed to resist enshittification, and resist it yourself in everything you do.

Nothing forced Philips to do what they are doing: a human made a decision to do it. They could have just as easily chosen not to. With Twine’s server lock-in, at least we chose to keep it running, for 12 years now. Consider that you can still make a decent living by being honest and ethical towards the people who are, by purchasing your products, paying for your lifestyle. 

We didn’t get here by accident. Humans made choices that brought us to this point, and we can’t blame anyone for being turned off by it. But we can choose to do better. We can design better stuff. And we can choose not to mess things up after the fact.

We’re putting this into practice with Pickup. (We also think that part of an IoT reset is giving users the creative freedom of a general-purpose device.) If you’re looking for something better and our product can fill a need you have, consider backing us. We cannot claim to be perfect or have all of the answers, but we are absolutely going to try. The status quo sucks. Let’s do something about it.

Published October 15, 2023 By Jeremy Billheimer

[rawmeknockout]

Hi!! I'm so excited your requests are open! I've had this idea in my head for forever, but unfortunately, my skills do not include writing. It goes like this: Shockwave has a lab tech, shy but typically thorough and diligent. Acceptable by Shockwave's standards. However, lately, the lab tech's work performance has been plummeting due to a persistent overcharge with no good outlet (heat cycles, my weakness). This is Unnacceptable™️ to Shockwave, so he decides to deal with the problem himself. Toxic decepticon work culture, of course. The lab tech's overcharge gets dealt with efficiently and rather roughly. Bonus points for choking!! The dubcon and power dynamics are just so delicious. I've sent you a tip on ko-fi! Kisses and thank you! 💋

Delays are unacceptable when it comes to Shockwave's work. He prides himself on being efficient, logical, the one steadily working cog in Megatron's war machine. Usually, you do not impede his work. You are one of the only Decepticons he will allow in his lab, other than test subjects when he can get them, because you do not slow his pace. Projects are started and completed perfectly within his strictly estimated deadline, weapons shipped out for approval and use by the only mech Shockwave would ever bow to.

But lately your work has been obstructed in a way that makes the lead scientist bristle. You are a fully capable and mature mech, you should know how to handle your own heat. It would be a hinderance to cast you aside as his lab assistant, reliable ones are so hard to come by, but your occupied attention has stretched his latest experiment passed the deadline. It itches at the back of his processor, a slowly building frustration he is usually unused to. He is tempted to dismiss you, but Shockwave is nothing if not resourceful. If you insist on simply bearing through the problem, a foolhardy solution he expects of less rational bots, then he must take matters into his own servos.

It is a few kliks he is willing to spare if it will allow his latest weapon to get through the experimentation phase.

"Lay back on the medical berth," Shockwave doesn't give an explanation, doesn't feel he needs to. You are simply an assistant, he won't spare more time than he needs to walking you through his thought process. You frown at him, a question clearly on your glossa, but you obediently hop up on the medical slab and lay back. Trained to follow orders and ask questions later, as any good assistant to Shockwave should be.

His digits curl around your ankle joints and drag you down the length of the berth, thighs parted around the bulk of him. Your intake gapes, already torn between leaning up and staying down as he had instructed. Further stupefying you, Shockwave retrieves a cable from his medical array, unraveling it from the side of his chassis. He doesn't bother asking for permission, digits finding the manual release over your own medical interface before plugging his cable into one of your data ports. He takes a moment to look passed you, single optic bearing down on information you can't see, clearly immersed in searching through your data. His sight refocuses on you when he's found what he's looking for.

"Remove your interface panel," Your mouth continues to uselessly flap open around words that you want to say. But you are still very aware of the fact he's your senior officer and leagues ahead of you in the Decepticon hierarchy. If there's anyone who can command you to bear your interface without express reason, it's Shockwave. You override your interface panel's release, also aware of just how charged up your array is. Mortification licks up your spinal strut at the slick sound of your valve platelets against the panel as it transforms away.

To further your embarrassment, Shockwave gives a cursory look-over of your valve. His single optic studies you like a new piece of tech, detached and inspective. You will yourself to lay back on the berth instead of tensed up on your elbows, your frame is stiff and awkward and impossible to rest comfortably in. You don't flinch when he transforms his own interface panel away without warning. He owes you no explanation as the lead scientist and he's not going to spare you any bedside manner, even if he had it.

Your valve is already so embarrassingly wet from your heat cycle, and you want to snap at him when he prods at the soft platelets with his claw-like digits. His servos are made for precise scientific work, not exploring the frame of a partner. He nudges your anterior node with the backside of one of his digits, just enough to send a jolt up pleasure up your spinal strut. It's akin to rutting against the edge of a countertop in how sensual it is; good enough only to get the job done, but there is no warmth from his touch. You offline your optics until he's deemed you sufficiently charged up to accept his spike, your fans venting air despite the fact this situation is more painful than arousing. Shockwave doesn't offer any forewarning before he nudges the head of his spike against your valve, startling the first sound from your vocalizer.

His hips snap against the back of your thighplating at once, burying his spike to the hilt. You hadn't expected gentle, but the stretch burns and has a warning popping up on your HUD. Shockwave ignores your frantic complaints, setting a steady, punishing rhythm. Drone-like in all he does, the scientist doesn't even seem fazed by the tight suction of your valve or the way you clench around him with the discomfort and pleasure. His single, dimmed optic bores down on you, watching you with mild interest. Your servos grip tight to either edge of the medical slab, a burning heat building in your core. In spite of his disinterest, in spite of the way he fucks into you like it's merely a task to complete, you brace your pedes upon the end of the berth and open your legs further for him.

You scramble to grab his servo in both your own, pulling and maneuvering his hold around your neck. Just the feel of his powerful digits around such a vulnerable spot has you pleading; "Please, please, please," leaving your vocalizer mindlessly. And for once, you see a spark of intrigue in his gaze. The same sort of curiosity when he's looking at a problem that evades him. He wastes not a klik more, squeezing around your throat tubing and forcing a static-filled moan from your vocalizer. His grip is tight, carelessly forceful, and it sends a hard shudder down your back.

The charge of overload ripples through your EM field before it washes over your frame, your frame arching up into his rough rhythm and cruel grip. Your legs twining around his waist to pull Shockwave in as deep as he can go. He, mercifully, fucks you through it, shallow thrusts working out every last bit of pleasure from you. Your just past the height of your overload when his transfluid spills inside your oversensitive valve, calipers rippling and milking his spike. A gasp leaves your intake, your vents, as he satisfies the infuriating heat of your cycle.

[luna-wing-cns274]

Legionspace... it is... difficult for this one to grasp. It should be natural, but it is foreign.

Is it... safe enough to...

Build a bridge through?

This one would see her freinds, look them in the eye, if only through data.

< L4 Ma'ii: Hello again, Styx. Since receiving your message, I've given this a bit of thought.

For your purposes, I think Legionspace is probably a poor option. I think you'll find that an Omninet connection of reasonable bandwidth and an enhanced subjectivity suite, or some other form of neural intermediary, will prove more than sufficient to emulate the experience of physically meeting your friends.

Allow me to explain. >

< I see no reason why Legionspace shouldn't be foreign to you. It's a highly specialized environment, developed for military use. Naval NHPs need intense training and regular drills to gain tactical proficiency in its use. It serves as a naval battleground, designed to consolidate, manage, and direct the digital and cognitive power of entire fleets; a terrible choice for recreation or enjoyment. I wouldn't be surprised if it has been used for such purposes before, but this is far from it was designed to do.

Its primary function is to provide an extremely low latency, high bandwidth medium for transmission of experiences or qualia between NHPs. Such a medium is necessary to support the formation of gestalts, that is, the temporary merging of multiple NHP subjectivities into singular, remarkably powerful intelligences.

Legionspace is not meant for use by humans, except through multiple degrees of ontologic filtering and anthropocentric translation. In fact, direct exposure to Legionspace qualia can easily destroy a human subjectivity. Even experiences transmitted with entirely benign intent may be so incompatible that the human mind suffers the equivalent of a system crash on attempting to process them.

So, then, unless you're interested in merging with your friends or directly interfacing with each others' minds, use of Legionspace shouldn't be necessary. Moreover, if there are any humans you wish to meet, it may be a challenge to maintain the necessary ontologic filtering. Even with these safety measures in place, a human may find prolonged Legionspace interaction to be...draining.

An easier, more accessible solution would be a somatosensory uplink, achievable through the use of a standard enhanced subjectivity suite. Rather than directly bridging one mind to another, this process involves the use of a neural intermediary to temporarily replace the physical body with a virtual one; an avatar. In the case of humans, sensory information from the body is intercepted and replaced with computer-generated stimuli, and outgoing impulses from the brain are translated into controls for a virtual avatar.

Much of the technology was pioneered by SSC, and is used as one mode of accessing the company's virtual-reality Omninet campuses. If you've heard of full subjectivity sync cybernetics, they are an extension of the same principles, used by mech pilots to control their chassis as a human would control their own body.

It is a mature technology which has undergone a great deal of refinement, but there are still risks, especially where humans are concerned. For them, shifting to an unfamiliar body can be unpleasant, sometimes traumatic. They can, but not always, experience dysphoria, disorientation, nausea, dissociative symptoms, a variety of side effects. In cases where the simulated body is notably different from a humanoid one, the subjectivity may reject or recognize the unreality of the substitute body, leading to extreme distress.

On the other hand, as I understand it, exploration of alternate forms can also be a liberating, enjoyable experience. The level of comfort varies from human to human. Some are able to tolerate very unfamiliar experiences, while others find themselves unable to use somatosensory uplinking at all. For most of our kind, of course, changing from one body to another is as simple as switching input sources. While the architecture of the human brain is not naturally constructed to accommodate body replacement, we lack such impediments.

Come to think of it, Hachiko recently had reason to research this topic. We know a human mech pilot, Sokaris Kelsius, callsign Opossum ( @the-last-patch ). He was badly injured in the course of combat; we went to aid him. In the course of treating his wounds, Hachiko used his full subjectivity sync cybernetics to establish somatosensory uplink, both to facilitate communication and provide pain relief. To do so, she rapidly constructed an avatar for him which initially failed to match with his physical body. This initially led to some dysphoric symptoms, but after some refinement of the avatar, he was able to use it seamlessly to communicate with us through our own avatars.

I bring this up because I am aware of the somewhat unique relationship you have to your own organic body. This is a factor which does not exist for most NHPs. Should you decide to pursue the use of somatosensory uplinking, I could forsee some obstacles associated with the relationship between your casket and body.

All of this might necessitate surgical implantation of a neural intermediary between your nervous system and casket, similarly to how a human would have an enhanced subjectivity suite installed between body and brain. I know that your nervous system does not support suspension or alteration of input delivered to the casket--perhaps such an implant might be beneficial in other regards, as well.

As for the other end of the equation, the avatar, if might be best to use an avatar which closely matches your physical body to avoid potentially unpleasant experiences.

Still, compared to the prospect of using Legionspace, this may be safer and simpler to achieve, and the outcomes more enjoyable. Access to Legion bridging cybernetics and Omninet connection of sufficient bandwidth to make use of them is generally restricted to military or corporate forces. It is possible, and can be used safely, but the resources required may be difficult to procure.

One other note: if you ever wish to wish to visit us, you are more than welcome. The simulated environment we use as our home is a hybridized Legion-adjacent environment; it can support qualic transfer, but in general, we typically use physical simulations to interact with one another. This conserves processing power, and to be completely frank, pure Legionspace is an environment we associate with some very unpleasant memories.

I wish you luck, Styx. Let me know if I can help. >

[sdv-confessions]

Hey there, I came to know of your blog (ironically) through one of those witch-hunting posts against you. I don't understand, why people are so mad about your questioning of what's wrong with c.ai...? (Apologies in advance, looooooong ask incoming...)

From what I've seen, c.ai's model creation and training is all done in-house, which means it's not running on any external model like ChatGPT or Claude.

Our team, responsible for pioneering large portions of the large language model field, set out to bring this technology directly to you. We are proud to be a full-stack AI company, meaning we do everything from training our own language models from scratch to building the user interface. This gives us the power to create personalized experiences that no other AI can match. In fact, this tight feedback loop with our passionate users has already proven itself as we’ve tuned both our model and UX to achieve the amazing daily usage times cited above. Source: https://blog.character.ai/character-ai/

1/?

thank you very much for your asks, anon. this is the kind of response i was hoping for originally. i appreciate that you provided specific sources for your specific points. i haven't been able to find more details on c.ai's training and database either, so i dont have much to add. rest of the message is below the cut:

However, there doesn't seem to be much information on what exactly is being used to train c.ai - some people on R*ddit have chimed in but it's not 100% or backed up by any evidence.

See: C.AI trained on users. : r/CharacterAI And: What was the AI trained on? : r/CharacterAI

We can assume that c.ai is trained on popular stories, chats online, etc. including fanfiction, but the bulk of its training likely from user chats and data provided by users themselves. Ultimately though, regular laymans like us can't really be 100% sure what's going on within the company.

On its own, internet use takes up enough water and electricity, but this problem was slowly being mitigated with moves towards clean energy, especially in certain parts of the world. The introduction of cryptocurrency and now AI has completely upset the precarious balance we worked so hard and so long for. Not to bring in a completely different topic, but the Earth is on track to become completely unliveable (Earth is becoming ‘increasingly uninhabitable,’ scientists warn | The Independent) and the capitalist obsession with amassing wealth and uninhibited growth is definitely accelerating it. You can click on the links in the article and it'll take you to the reports that they took all the info from.

Anyway, back on topic: Regardless of what they personally believe, for people to tell their friends, fans, and communities to block and send hate to a single person for questioning the narrative on both sides is ins*ne. Imagine calling someone names and personally insulting them because they dared to ask for clear clarification. Blindly following the anti-AI trend is just as bad as blindly following the pro-AI trend.

I hope you're taking care of yourself mentally and emotionally. Please know that even if certain people on this site think being "morally right" gives them the right to be assholes, there are other people out there who still have common sense. And, idk, a country that's not exploding from the top down.

(Also, I totally agree with your stance on copyright. I grew up on bootlegs of American, Japanese, etc. media, and I'm seeing bootlegs of my childhood shows appearing these days. Fanfiction used to be literally illegal because of copyright. Great art is not made by pure originality - look at so many famous artists, they were originally trained by copying famous art themselves. Tolkien himself borrowed from many different sources to create LOTR. Entire genres and popular series are made from copying older works. If you don't want copycats, the only solution is not to put your work out there.)

[the-last-patch]

[ COMP/CON SYSTEM MESSAGE: Continuing transcription of direct experiential data capture… ]

In the cramped confines of the ordnance bay, Hachiko’s subaltern crouched over Sokaris’s Kobold, peering down at him through the breach in its hatch. His eyes were open; Hachiko watched as they lazily tracked the subaltern’s movements. Too slowly.

Concussion, Hachiko thought, and adjusted the tasking of the medical nanites.

He tried to speak, but his voice withered. Guttural coughs wracked his chest. A deep metallic scraping sounded from inside the chassis, and Hachiko startled, beginning to reach for her pistol before she caught herself. Cautiously, she extended a camera cable from the subaltern, trying to locate the source of the noise, and found it.

Sokaris’s cybernetic tail was dragging itself along the mech’s interior. Several end sections of the tail had been destroyed, and the pink paint coating its exterior was scorched away in places, but it moved with purpose. With precise motions, it created a series of taps and scrapes in alternating long and short bursts.

Morse code.

Friend? The signal read, transcribed by his Omnihook.

“Yes! I’m a friend. It’s Hachi, buddy. You’re aboard my fighter. It’s not ideal, but this bay is the best I’ve got. I’m going to get you warmed up. You’re wounded, but you’ve received correctives, including a small maniple of medical nanites. They’re going to start working to control your pain and repair the damage. You should feel the pain receding now, but don’t try to move yet.”

Scanning the interior of Sokaris’s Kobold, Hachiko’s attention was caught by the series of interface plugs across his hardsuit’s back.

“Wait. That’s a full subjectivity sync, isn’t it? You’re rigged for total somatosensory replacement, then.”

Hachiko paused, weighing something in her mind.

“Okay, there’s a few things we can do. You can’t speak, but we could use the sync cybernetics to communicate.

One, I could try to get a simple two-way connection up and running so we can communicate electronically. You could use neural commands to compose messages. Text, mainly. It’s non-invasive and relatively easy to accomplish.

Or—if you’re comfortable with it—I could try to set up a full Legionspace bridge. In effect, you could enter virtual reality, occupying a simulation of your body while I work to stabilize your real one. I don’t know if you’ve ever attempted that before. It’s safe, but it can be disorienting. You’d at least be isolated from the pain, however.

What do you think? Text, Legion, or leave it alone?”

[Resuming Song]

[Now Playing - “Opossum Instrumental Ver.”]

<As the transmission picks up again, the rudimentary Morse code is noticeably absent. It stopped when Hachiko addressed him. Silence followed her statements towards him, but it was clear that “Opossum” seemed to relax a little upon hearing her name. His breathing, previously ragged and strained, stabilized slightly. They became deeper, and less frantic.>

<Although the friendly voice seemed to soothe him, the time came for a response and he failed to deliver. There was no rhythmic tapping, no strained words, no noise at all coming from “Opossum”, aside from his faint breaths. It seems he was confused —Or Disoriented Perhaps— failing to understand what was being asked.>

{L3} “Text? Legion? Or leave it alone?”

<Several seconds pass in this silence, each stretching to impossible lengths, as the injured mercenary lie there, down and out. Then, he once again begins the code. It’s much more refined this time, each “dit” and “dah” clearly recognizable. It is clear that this ability, to scrape together a solution with only scrap is what truly made the Patchwork Mercenaries what they are, or were.>

{“Opossum”} .- .-.. --- -. . ..--.. / -- . ..--.. / -. . --. .- - .. ...- . .-.-.-

{System} Alone? Me? Negative.

<The Merc stirs, audible winces and other expressions of pain leave his throat as he does. It would seem the very thought of being alone right now is enough to frighten him. He eventually stops shifting, gently falling back into the depths of his frame with a slight thud. Following that noise, he can be heard grasping something. It was a gentle noise, but just loud enough for the Omnihook to pick up. He then continues the tapping.>

{“Opossum”} ... .--. . .- -.- .-.-.- / ..-. .- -.-. . / - --- / ..-. .- -.-. . .-.-.- / .--. .-.. . .- ... . .-.-.-

{System} Speak. Face to Face. Please.

<Without giving Hachi a moment to speak, he begins a new message. The deliberate “dits” and ”dahs” becoming rushed and frantic, as if “Opossum” believed he would be left behind should he not dictate fast enough.

{“Opossum”} .. / .-- .. .-.. .-.. / -... . -.-. --- -- . / .-.. . --. .. --- -. .-.-.-

{System} I will become Legion.