#robust data

[phoenixiancrystallist]

Never thought I'd get weepy over a software presentation keynote and yet, here we are

So for those of you who don't know, I use ProCreate. It's the only art program I've touched in at least five years, and aside from brief stints in my sketchbook, I've done everything in it. The animations I've done last year and this year were all done in ProCreate, which is strictly a drawing and photo editing software and animation was kind of built in as an afterthought. As such, the animation capabilities of ProCreate are kind of... nonexistent. Clunky at best, and I had no way to add sound. And because of how ProCreate's animation worked, I couldn't do long or particularly complex animation. Which is fine, like, I'm still learning how to animate in the first place. But we really are limited by the capabilities of our tools, and as much as I love ProCreate for static art, it left a ton to be desired in the animation department.

But the team that made ProCreate just announced they've made animation software. Not "are making," have made. And it's robust. It covers everything a full animation studio would do with multiple different softwares, all in one app. I can't even begin to say how excited I am for this. And it's only $20, where equally powerful—or hell, even less powerful—desktop animation software would easily cost $500 or more.

I'm so excited! I'll finally be able to follow along in a ton of the animation lessons I own! I couldn't do that before, because of ProCreate's limitations. Mostly the lack of animation timeline and I couldn't add sound—you know, the two most vital aspects of animation. But now I'll be able to! I just have to be patient until the end of November and fork over $20. And then? Then I'll be unstoppable.

I'm gonna conquer the fucking world, y'all.

[bigleapblog]

Your Guide to B.Tech in Computer Science & Engineering Colleges

In today's technology-driven world, pursuing a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) has become a popular choice among students aspiring for a bright future. The demand for skilled professionals in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, and Cloud Computing has made computer science engineering colleges crucial in shaping tomorrow's innovators. Saraswati College of Engineering (SCOE), a leader in engineering education, provides students with a perfect platform to build a successful career in this evolving field.

Whether you're passionate about coding, software development, or the latest advancements in AI, pursuing a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering at SCOE can open doors to endless opportunities.

Why Choose B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering?

Choosing a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering isn't just about learning to code; it's about mastering problem-solving, logical thinking, and the ability to work with cutting-edge technologies. The course offers a robust foundation that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to excel in the tech industry.

At SCOE, the computer science engineering courses are designed to meet industry standards and keep up with the rapidly evolving tech landscape. With its AICTE Approved, NAAC Accredited With Grade-"A+" credentials, the college provides quality education in a nurturing environment. SCOE's curriculum goes beyond textbooks, focusing on hands-on learning through projects, labs, workshops, and internships. This approach ensures that students graduate not only with a degree but with the skills needed to thrive in their careers.

The Role of Computer Science Engineering Colleges in Career Development

The role of computer science engineering colleges like SCOE is not limited to classroom teaching. These institutions play a crucial role in shaping students' futures by providing the necessary infrastructure, faculty expertise, and placement opportunities. SCOE, established in 2004, is recognized as one of the top engineering colleges in Navi Mumbai. It boasts a strong placement record, with companies like Goldman Sachs, Cisco, and Microsoft offering lucrative job opportunities to its graduates.

The computer science engineering courses at SCOE are structured to provide a blend of technical and soft skills. From the basics of computer programming to advanced topics like Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, students at SCOE are trained to be industry-ready. The faculty at SCOE comprises experienced professionals who not only impart theoretical knowledge but also mentor students for real-world challenges.

Highlights of the B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering Program at SCOE

Comprehensive Curriculum: The B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering program at SCOE covers all major areas, including programming languages, algorithms, data structures, computer networks, operating systems, AI, and Machine Learning. This ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, preparing them for various roles in the tech industry.

Industry-Relevant Learning: SCOE’s focus is on creating professionals who can immediately contribute to the tech industry. The college regularly collaborates with industry leaders to update its curriculum, ensuring students learn the latest technologies and trends in computer science engineering.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: SCOE is equipped with modern laboratories, computer centers, and research facilities, providing students with the tools they need to gain practical experience. The institution’s infrastructure fosters innovation, helping students work on cutting-edge projects and ideas during their B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering.

Practical Exposure: One of the key benefits of studying at SCOE is the emphasis on practical learning. Students participate in hands-on projects, internships, and industry visits, giving them real-world exposure to how technology is applied in various sectors.

Placement Support: SCOE has a dedicated placement cell that works tirelessly to ensure students secure internships and job offers from top companies. The B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering program boasts a strong placement record, with top tech companies visiting the campus every year. The highest on-campus placement offer for the academic year 2022-23 was an impressive 22 LPA from Goldman Sachs, reflecting the college’s commitment to student success.

Personal Growth: Beyond academics, SCOE encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, coding competitions, and tech fests. These activities enhance their learning experience, promote teamwork, and help students build a well-rounded personality that is essential in today’s competitive job market.

What Makes SCOE Stand Out?

With so many computer science engineering colleges to choose from, why should you consider SCOE for your B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering? Here are a few factors that make SCOE a top choice for students:

Experienced Faculty: SCOE prides itself on having a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members. The faculty’s approach to teaching is both theoretical and practical, ensuring students are equipped to tackle real-world challenges.

Strong Industry Connections: The college maintains strong relationships with leading tech companies, ensuring that students have access to internship opportunities and campus recruitment drives. This gives SCOE graduates a competitive edge in the job market.

Holistic Development: SCOE believes in the holistic development of students. In addition to academic learning, the college offers opportunities for personal growth through various student clubs, sports activities, and cultural events.

Supportive Learning Environment: SCOE provides a nurturing environment where students can focus on their academic and personal growth. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including spacious classrooms, labs, a library, and a recreation center.

Career Opportunities After B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering from SCOE

Graduates with a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering from SCOE are well-prepared to take on various roles in the tech industry. Some of the most common career paths for CSE graduates include:

Software Engineer: Developing software applications, web development, and mobile app development are some of the key responsibilities of software engineers. This role requires strong programming skills and a deep understanding of software design.

Data Scientist: With the rise of big data, data scientists are in high demand. CSE graduates with knowledge of data science can work on data analysis, machine learning models, and predictive analytics.

AI Engineer: Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing various industries, and AI engineers are at the forefront of this change. SCOE’s curriculum includes AI and Machine Learning, preparing students for roles in this cutting-edge field.

System Administrator: Maintaining and managing computer systems and networks is a crucial role in any organization. CSE graduates can work as system administrators, ensuring the smooth functioning of IT infrastructure.

Cybersecurity Specialist: With the growing threat of cyberattacks, cybersecurity specialists are essential in protecting an organization’s digital assets. CSE graduates can pursue careers in cybersecurity, safeguarding sensitive information from hackers.

Conclusion: Why B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering at SCOE is the Right Choice

Choosing the right college is crucial for a successful career in B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering. Saraswati College of Engineering (SCOE) stands out as one of the best computer science engineering colleges in Navi Mumbai. With its industry-aligned curriculum, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and excellent placement record, SCOE offers students the perfect environment to build a successful career in computer science.

Whether you're interested in AI, data science, software development, or any other field in computer science, SCOE provides the knowledge, skills, and opportunities you need to succeed. With a strong focus on hands-on learning and personal growth, SCOE ensures that students graduate not only as engineers but as professionals ready to take on the challenges of the tech world.

If you're ready to embark on an exciting journey in the world of technology, consider pursuing your B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering at SCOE—a college where your future takes shape.

[toptrendingforexbrokers]

6 Best Online Brokers for Day Trading of September 2024

1. Capitalix: Innovative Features and Robust Platform

Key Features:

Advanced Charting Tools: Capitalix includes state-of-the-art charting tools that help traders analyze market trends and make informed decisions.

Low Spreads: Competitive spreads across various asset classes minimize trading costs.

Educational Resources: Comprehensive educational materials and webinars are available to enhance trading skills.

2. SmartSTP : User-Friendly and Versatile

SmartSTP.com is renowned for its user-friendly interface and versatile trading options. It caters to a diverse range of traders with its extensive market access and customizable trading environment.

SmartSTP.com excels in providing a seamless trading experience across multiple devices, ensuring that traders can stay connected and make trades on the go.

Key Features:

Mobile Compatibility: The platform is optimized for mobile devices, allowing for on-the-go trading.

Real-Time Data: Access to real-time market data and news helps traders make timely decisions.

Personalized Alerts: Set custom alerts for price movements and market events.

3. TradeEu: Cutting-Edge Technology and Comprehensive Tools

Key Features:

Algorithmic Trading Support: Utilize advanced algorithms to execute trades automatically based on pre-set criteria.

High-Speed Execution: Benefit from lightning-fast trade execution to capitalize on market opportunities.

Customizable Platform: Tailor the trading platform to meet individual preferences and strategies.

4. FX Road: Reliable and Cost-Effective

FX Road is a broker that stands out for its reliability and cost-effectiveness. With competitive trading fees and a focus on customer service, FX Road provides a solid foundation for day traders looking for value and efficiency. The platform supports a variety of asset classes and is known for its transparent fee structure.

Key Features:

Low Trading Fees: Enjoy low trading costs with transparent fee structures.

Diverse Asset Range: Access to a broad range of financial instruments, including forex and indices.

Customer Support: Responsive customer service to assist with trading inquiries and issues.

5. Trade EU Global: Comprehensive Market Access

Trade EU Global is a broker that offers comprehensive market access and a wide range of trading options. This platform is well-suited for traders who seek exposure to global markets and diverse asset classes. Trade EU Global provides advanced trading tools and research resources to support strategic trading decisions.

Key Features:

Global Market Access: Trade a wide variety of assets from around the world.

In-Depth Research: Access detailed market research and analysis to inform trading strategies.

Advanced Tools: Utilize sophisticated trading tools for enhanced market analysis.

6. CapPlace: Innovative Solutions for Modern Traders

CapPlace is a broker known for its innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology. It offers a range of tools and features designed to meet the needs of modern traders. CapPlace stands out for its emphasis on technology and user experience, making it a strong choice for those who value innovation in their trading activities.

Key Features:

Tech-Driven Platform: Experience a technologically advanced trading environment with enhanced features.

Customizable User Interface: Personalize the trading interface to suit individual trading styles.

Educational Tools: Access a range of educational resources to improve trading skills.

Conclusion

Choosing the right online broker is essential for day trading success. As of September 2024, Capitalix, TradeEu, FX Road, Trade EU Global, and CapPlace are among the best brokers offering a range of features and benefits tailored to meet the diverse needs of traders. By selecting a broker that aligns with your trading goals and preferences, you can enhance your trading experience and achieve better outcomes

[nazninakther]

7 Secrets Every Aspiring Data Scientist Should Know

In recent years, the field of data science has exploded in popularity, driven by the increasing availability of data and the growing demand for professionals who can analyze and interpret this information. As businesses and organizations strive to make data-driven decisions, the role of the data scientist has become more critical than ever. For those looking to break into this exciting field, several key insights and strategies can help pave the way to a successful career. Here are seven secrets every aspiring data scientist should know.

Master the Fundamentals Before diving into the more glamorous aspects of data science, it’s essential to have a strong grasp of the fundamentals. This includes understanding basic concepts in statistics, probability, and linear algebra. A solid foundation in these areas will not only help you understand the algorithms and models you’ll be working with but also enable you to troubleshoot and refine them effectively.

Statistics and Probability Understanding statistical measures like mean, median, variance, and standard deviation is crucial. Probability theory helps in understanding distributions, hypothesis testing, and statistical significance, which are integral to data analysis.

Linear Algebra Linear algebra is the backbone of many data science algorithms. Concepts like vectors, matrices, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors are essential for understanding complex models, especially in machine learning and deep learning.

Develop Strong Programming Skills Proficiency in programming is a must for any data scientist. Python and R are the most popular languages in the field due to their extensive libraries and frameworks that support data manipulation, analysis, and visualization.

Python Python is favored for its simplicity and readability. Libraries such as NumPy, pandas, Scikit-learn, and TensorFlow are instrumental for data manipulation, statistical modeling, and machine learning.

R is particularly strong in statistical analysis and visualization. Packages like ggplot2, dplyr, and caret are powerful tools for creating detailed and informative visualizations and performing robust statistical analyses.

Gain Practical Experience While theoretical knowledge is important, hands-on experience is invaluable. Engaging in practical projects, internships, and competitions can help solidify your understanding and provide tangible proof of your skills.

Kaggle Competitions Participating in Kaggle competitions can provide exposure to real-world data problems and allow you to apply and test your skills against a global community.

Internships and Projects Internships offer practical experience and insights into the workings of the industry. Working on real-world projects, either through internships or independently, helps in understanding the end-to-end process of data science workflows.

Understand Data Cleaning and Preparation A significant portion of a data scientist’s time is spent on data cleaning and preparation. Raw data is often messy, incomplete, or inconsistent, and must be cleaned and transformed before analysis.

Data cleaning involves handling missing values, correcting errors, and ensuring consistency. Techniques include imputation, outlier detection, and normalization.

Data Transformation Data transformation includes scaling, encoding categorical variables, and feature engineering. Properly prepared data is crucial for building accurate and reliable models.

Learn Machine Learning Algorithms Machine learning is at the heart of data science. Understanding various machine learning algorithms and knowing when and how to apply them is critical.

Supervised Learning Supervised learning algorithms, such as linear regression, decision trees, and support vector machines, are used

when you have unlabeled data. These algorithms identify patterns and structures in the data.

Deep Learning Deep learning, a subset of machine learning, uses neural networks with many layers (hence "deep"). It is particularly effective for tasks like image and speech recognition.

Cultivate Communication Skills Data scientists must be able to communicate their findings effectively to stakeholders who may not have a technical background. Strong communication skills are essential for explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely.

Data Visualization Data visualization is a powerful tool for communicating insights. Tools like Tableau, Power BI, and Matplotlib can help you create compelling visualizations that tell a story with data.

presentation and Storytelling Being able to present your findings in a compelling narrative is crucial. Focus on clarity, conciseness, and relevance to your audience’s needs.

Stay Curious and Keep Learning The field of data science is constantly evolving, with new techniques, tools, and algorithms being developed regularly. A successful data scientist must stay curious and committed to continuous learning.

Online Courses and Certifications Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer courses and certifications in data science and related fields. Continuous learning helps you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.

Research and Reading Following academic research papers, blogs, and forums can provide insights into cutting-edge developments. Engaging with the data science community through conferences and meetups can also be beneficial.

Conclusion Embarking on a career in data science can be both exciting and challenging. By mastering the fundamentals, developing strong programming skills, gaining practical experience, understanding data cleaning and preparation, learning machine learning algorithms, cultivating communication skills, and committing to continuous learning, you can position yourself for success in this dynamic field. Remember, the journey of a data scientist is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay curious, keep learning, and enjoy the process of uncovering insights from data.

Additional Resources for Aspiring Data Scientists To help you on your journey, here are some additional resources that can provide valuable knowledge and experience:

Books "Python Data Science Handbook" by Jake VanderPlas "Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras, and TensorFlow" by Aurélien Géron "Deep Learning" by Ian Goodfellow, Yoshua Bengio, and Aaron Courville Online Courses "Machine Learning" by Andrew Ng on Coursera "Data Science MicroMasters" by UC San Diego on edX "Deep Learning Specialization" by Andrew Ng and team on Coursera Communities and Forums Kaggle: Participate in competitions and discussions Stack Overflow: Ask questions and share knowledge Data Science Reddit: Engage with a community of data enthusiasts Practical Steps to Get Started Build a Portfolio: Start by working on small projects and gradually take on more complex ones. Create a portfolio showcasing your work on platforms like GitHub. Network: Attend meetups, conferences, and webinars to connect with other data professionals. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and collaborations. Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can provide guidance and feedback. A mentor can help you navigate the challenges of starting a career in data science. Stay Updated: Follow influential data scientists on social media, subscribe to newsletters, and regularly read blogs to keep up with the latest trends and best practices.

Data science is a field that offers endless opportunities to learn and grow. Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance your career, the key is to stay motivated and persistent. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities and always strive to improve your skills. With dedication and the right approach, you can achieve success in the exciting world of data science.

[zapperrr]

Securing Your Website: Best Practices for Web Developers

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, website security has become a paramount concern for businesses and individuals alike. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial for web developers to adopt robust security measures to safeguard their websites and the sensitive data they handle. In this article, we'll delve into the best practices that web developers can implement to enhance the security of their websites and protect against potential threats.

Introduction

In today's interconnected world, websites serve as the digital storefront for businesses, making them vulnerable targets for cyber attacks. From data breaches to malware infections, the consequences of a security breach can be severe, ranging from financial loss to damage to reputation. Therefore, prioritizing website security is essential for maintaining the trust and confidence of users.

Understanding Website Security

Before diving into best practices, it's crucial to understand the importance of website security and the common threats faced by websites. Website security encompasses measures taken to protect websites from cyber threats and unauthorized access. Common threats include malware infections, phishing attacks, SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and brute force attacks.

Best Practices for Web Developers

Keeping Software Updated

One of the most fundamental steps in website security is keeping all software, including the content management system (CMS), plugins, and server software, updated with the latest security patches and fixes. Outdated software is often targeted by attackers due to known vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

Implementing HTTPS

Implementing HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypts the data transmitted between the website and its users, ensuring confidentiality and integrity. HTTPS not only protects sensitive information but also boosts trust among visitors, as indicated by the padlock icon in the browser's address bar.

Using Strong Authentication Methods

Implementing strong authentication methods, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and CAPTCHA, adds an extra layer of security to user accounts. MFA requires users to provide multiple forms of verification, such as a password and a one-time code sent to their mobile device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Securing Against SQL Injection Attacks

SQL injection attacks occur when malicious actors exploit vulnerabilities in web applications to execute arbitrary SQL commands. Web developers can prevent SQL injection attacks by using parameterized queries and input validation to sanitize user inputs effectively.

Protecting Sensitive Data

It's essential to employ encryption techniques to protect sensitive data, such as passwords, credit card information, and personal details, stored on the website's servers. Encrypting data at rest and in transit mitigates the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Regular Security Audits

Conducting regular security audits helps identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the website's infrastructure and codebase. Penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and code reviews enable web developers to proactively address security issues before they are exploited by attackers.

Choosing a Secure Hosting Provider

Selecting a reputable and secure hosting provider is critical for ensuring the overall security of your website. When evaluating hosting providers, consider factors such as security features, reliability, scalability, and customer support.

Evaluating Security Features

Choose a hosting provider that offers robust security features, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), malware scanning, and DDoS protection. These features help protect your website from various cyber threats and ensure continuous uptime.

Ensuring Regular Backups

Regularly backing up your website's data is essential for mitigating the impact of security incidents, such as data breaches or website compromises. Choose a hosting provider that offers automated backup solutions and store backups securely offsite.

Customer Support and Response to Security Incidents

Opt for a hosting provider that provides responsive customer support and has established protocols for handling security incidents. In the event of a security breach or downtime, prompt assistance from the hosting provider can minimize the impact on your website and business operations.

Implementing Firewall Protection

Firewalls act as a barrier between your website and external threats, filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules. There are several types of firewalls, including network firewalls, web application firewalls (WAF), and host-based firewalls.

Configuring and Maintaining Firewalls

Properly configuring and maintaining firewalls is crucial for effective security. Define firewall rules based on the principle of least privilege, regularly update firewall configurations to reflect changes in the website's infrastructure, and monitor firewall logs for suspicious activity.

Educating Users about Security

In addition to implementing technical measures, educating users about security best practices is essential for enhancing overall website security. Provide users with resources, such as security guidelines, tips for creating strong passwords, and information about common phishing scams.

Importance of User Awareness

Users play a significant role in maintaining website security, as they are often the targets of social engineering attacks. By raising awareness about potential threats and providing guidance on how to recognize and respond to them, web developers can empower users to stay vigilant online.

Providing Training and Resources

Offer training sessions and educational materials to help users understand the importance of security and how to protect themselves while using the website. Regularly communicate updates and reminders about security practices to reinforce good habits.

Monitoring and Responding to Security Incidents

Despite taking preventive measures, security incidents may still occur. Establishing robust monitoring systems and incident response protocols enables web developers to detect and respond to security threats in a timely manner.

Setting Up Monitoring Tools

Utilize monitoring tools, such as intrusion detection systems (IDS), security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and website monitoring services, to detect abnormal behavior and potential security breaches. Configure alerts to notify you of suspicious activity promptly.

Establishing Incident Response Protocols

Develop comprehensive incident response plans that outline roles, responsibilities, and procedures for responding to security incidents. Establish clear communication channels and escalation paths to coordinate responses effectively and minimize the impact of security breaches.

Securing your website requires a proactive approach that involves implementing a combination of technical measures, choosing a secure hosting provider, educating users about security best practices, and establishing robust monitoring and incident response protocols. By following these best practices, web developers can mitigate the risk of security breaches and safeguard their websites and the sensitive data they handle.

[vozoehr]

Mirthconnect

Mirth Connect is an open-source, cross-platform integration engine that is used for healthcare data integration. It is developed by Mirth Corporation, which is now a part of the Allscripts healthcare solutions. Mirth Connect is widely used in the healthcare industry to facilitate the exchange of health information between different systems and healthcare organizations.

Key features of Mirth Connect include:

Message Transformation: Mirth Connect allows users to transform messages from one format to another, facilitating interoperability between different healthcare systems that may use different data formats and standards.

Message Routing: The integration engine enables the routing of messages between various systems based on configurable rules. This is crucial for directing healthcare data to the appropriate destinations.

Connectivity: Mirth Connect supports a wide range of communication protocols and standards, such as HL7 (Health Level Seven), DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine), and various web services protocols, making it versatile in connecting different healthcare systems.

Data Mapping: Users can create maps to define how data should be translated and transformed between different systems. This is essential for ensuring that data is accurately represented and understood by the receiving systems.

Alerts and Monitoring: Mirth Connect provides monitoring tools and alerts to notify administrators of potential issues or errors in the data integration process, allowing for quick identification and resolution.

Open Source: Mirth Connect is open-source software, which means that users can access and modify the source code. This flexibility allows developers to customize the integration engine to meet specific organizational requirements.

Community Support: As an open-source project, Mirth Connect benefits from a community of developers and users who contribute to its ongoing development and provide support through forums and other online channels.

Keep in mind that information about specific software can change, so it's advisable to check the official Mirth Connect documentation or community forums for the latest and most accurate information.

[my-financials]

Cybersecurity in Personal Finance Management: Essential Strategies for Digital Safety

In today’s digital age, where a staggering 76% of Americans engage in online banking (Pew Research Center), the importance of cybersecurity in managing personal finances cannot be overstated. This comprehensive guide explores the essential strategies for protecting your online banking, investment, and transaction activities from cyber threats. Fortifying Online Banking and Investments: An…

[dieterziegler159]

Discover the pivotal role of data governance in DevOps evolution. Build stronger foundations for compliance, security, and efficiency.

[public-cloud-computing]

Discover how robust data governance shapes DevOps evolution, ensuring secure foundations & compliance. Uncover insights now!

[enterprise-cloud-services]

Discover how robust data governance shapes DevOps evolution, ensuring secure foundations & compliance. Uncover insights now!

[rubylogan15]

Discover how robust data governance shapes DevOps evolution, ensuring secure foundations & compliance. Uncover insights now!

[eileen-crys]

AI DISTURBANCE "OVERLAYS" DO NOT WORK!

To all the artists and folks who want to protect their art against AI mimicry: all the "AI disturbance" overlays that are circulating online lately DON'T WORK!

Glaze's disturbance (and now the Ibis Paint premium feature, apparently. Not sure.) modifies the image on a code-level, it's not just an overlayed effect but it actually affects the image's data so AI can't really detect and interpret the code within the image. From the Glaze website:

Can't you just apply some filter, compression, blurring, or add some noise to the image to destroy image cloaks? As counterintuitive as this may be, the high level answer is that no simple tools work to destroy the perturbation of these image cloaks. To make sense of this, it helps to first understand that cloaking does not use high-intensity pixels, or rely on bright patterns to distort the image. It is a precisely computed combination of a number of pixels that do not easily stand out to the human eye, but can produce distortion in the AI's “eye.” In our work, we have performed extensive tests showing how robust cloaking is to things like image compression and distortion/noise/masking injection. Another way to think about this is that the cloak is not some brittle watermark that is either seen or not seen. It is a transformation of the image in a dimension that humans do not perceive, but very much in the dimensions that the deep learning model perceive these images. So transformations that rotate, blur, change resolution, crop, etc, do not affect the cloak, just like the same way those operations would not change your perception of what makes a Van Gogh painting "Van Gogh."

Anyone can request a WebGlaze account for FREE, just send an Email or a DM to the official Glaze Project accounts on X and Instagram, they reply within a few days. Be sure to provide a link to your art acc (anywhere) so they know you're an artist.

Please don't be fooled by those colorful and bright overlays to just download and put on your art: it won't work against AI training. Protect your art with REAL Glaze please 🙏🏻 WebGlaze is SUPER FAST, you upload the artwork and they send it back to you within five minutes, and the effect is barely visible!

Official Glaze Project website | Glaze FAQs | about WebGlaze

[typhlonectes]

GOOD NEWS:

Enduring the Earthquake: Rediscovery of the Critically Endangered Mesilau Stream Toad, Ansonia guibei Inger, 1966 (Anura, Bufonidae) and its conservation implications

EVAN S.H. QUAH, PAUL YAMBUN IMBUN, SZE HUEI YEK

Abstract

The Mesilau Stream Toad (Ansonia guibei) is a species of bufonid endemic to Sabah, Borneo, and restricted to a single mountainous location above 1600m in elevation. The species is only known from the type locality, the Mesilau watershed on Mount Kinabalu. An earthquake in 2015 resulted in massive landslides, causing extensive damage to the species’ habitat at Mesilau. This event was expected to have caused significant population declines of at least 80% or even the potential extinction of the species. A survey in 2017 at Mesilau failed to locate any individuals, which resulted in it being listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. Surveys in late 2023 to reassess the status of the species and its habitat resulted in the rediscovery of a single subadult specimen of A. guibei. Tadpoles of the species were recorded in the main Mesilau River and one additional tributary, which indicates the species survives and is breeding. Studies are ongoing to collect more ecological data on the species and determine its current distribution. The data gathered will be used to construct a robust conservation plan for the species. Nevertheless, these preliminary observations bode well for the future of the species as it demonstrates that it is resilient and capable of recovering from the damages caused by the earthquake.

Read the paper here:

Enduring the Earthquake: Rediscovery of the Critically Endangered Mesilau Stream Toad, Ansonia guibei Inger, 1966 (Anura, Bufonidae) and its conservation implications | Zootaxa (mapress.com)

[beatingtheouijaboardallegations]

forever tired of our voices being turned into commodity.

forever tired of thorough medaocrity in the AAC business. how that is rewarded. How it fails us as users. how not robust and only robust by small small amount communication systems always chosen by speech therapists and funded by insurance.

forever tired of profit over people.

forever tired of how companies collect data on every word we’ve ever said and sell to people.

forever tired of paying to communicate. of how uninsured disabled people just don’t get a voice many of the time. or have to rely on how AAC is brought into classrooms — which usually is managed to do in every possible wrong way.

forever tired of the branding and rebranding of how we communicate. Of this being amazing revealation over and over that nonspeakers are “in there” and should be able to say things. of how every single time this revelation comes with pre condition of leaving the rest behind, who can’t spell or type their way out of the cage of ableist oppression. or are not given chance & resources to. Of the branding being seen as revolution so many times and of these companies & practitioners making money off this “revolution.” of immersion weeks and CRP trainings that are thousands of dollars and wildly overpriced letterboards, and of that one nightmare Facebook group g-d damm it. How this all is put in language of communication freedom. 26 letters is infinite possibilities they say - but only for the richest of families and disabled people. The rest of us will have to live with fewer possibilities.

forever tired of engineer dads of AAC users who think they can revolutionize whole field of AAC with new terrible designed apps that you can’t say anything with them. of minimally useful AI features that invade every AAC app to cash in on the new moment and not as tool that if used ethically could actually help us, but as way of fixing our grammar our language our cultural syntax we built up to sound “proper” to sound normal. for a machine, a large language model to model a small language for us, turn our inhuman voices human enough.

forever tired of how that brand and marketing is never for us, never for the people who actually use it to communicate. it is always for everyone around us, our parents and teachers paras and SLPs and BCBAs and practitioners and doctors and everyone except the person who ends up stuck stuck with a bad organized bad implemented bad taught profit motivated way to talk. of it being called behavior problems low ability incompetence noncompliance when we don’t use these systems.

you all need to do better. We need to democritize our communication, put it in our own hands. (My friend & communication partner who was in Occupy Wall Street suggested phrase “Occupy AAC” and think that is perfect.) And not talking about badly made non-robust open source apps either. Yes a robust system needs money and recources to make it well. One person or community alone cannot turn a robotic voice into a human one. But our human voice should not be in hands of companies at all.

(this is about the Tobii Dynavox subscription thing. But also exploitive and capitalism practices and just lazy practices in AAC world overall. Both in high tech “ mainstream “ AAC and methods that are like ones I use in sense that are both super stigmatized and also super branded and marketed, Like RPM and S2C and spellers method. )

[probablyasocialecologist]

In international development circles, most people are familiar with the World Bank’s data showing that extreme poverty has declined dramatically over the past several decades, from 43 per cent of the world’s population in 1981 to less than 10 per cent today. This narrative is based on the World Bank’s method of calculating the share of people who live on less than $1.90 per day (in 2011 “PPP” terms). But a growing body of literature argues that the World Bank’s PPP-based method suffers from a major empirical limitation, in that it does not account for the cost of meeting basic needs in any given context (see here, here and here). Having more than $1.90 PPP does not guarantee that a person can afford the specific goods and services that are necessary for survival. In recent years, scholars have developed a more accurate method for measuring extreme poverty, by comparing people’s incomes to the prices of essential goods in each country (specifically food, shelter, clothing and fuel). This approach is known as the “basic needs poverty line” (BNPL), and it more closely approximates what the original concept of “extreme poverty” was intended to measure. 

[...]

Extreme poverty is not a natural condition, but a sign of severe dislocation. Historical data on real wages since the 15th century indicates that under normal conditions, across different societies and eras, people are generally able to meet their subsistence needs except during periods of severe social displacement, such as famines, wars, and institutionalised dispossession, particularly under European colonialism. What is more, BNPL data shows that many countries have managed to keep extreme poverty very close to zero, even with low levels of GDP per capita, by using strategies such as public provisioning and price controls for basic essentials. In other words, extreme poverty can be prevented much more easily than most people assume. Indeed, it need not exist at all. The fact that it persists at such high levels today indicates that severe dislocation is institutionalised in the world economy – and that markets have failed to meet the basic needs of much of humanity. To address this problem, and to end extreme poverty – the first objective of the Sustainable Development Goals – will require public planning to prioritise the production of, and guarantee access to, the specific goods and services that people need to live decent lives.

[reasonsforhope]

Interior Department Announces New Guidance to Honor and Elevate Hawaiian Language

"In commemoration of Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, or Hawaiian Language Month, and in recognition of its unique relationship with the Native Hawaiian Community, the Department of the Interior today announced new guidance on the use of the Hawaiian language.  

A comprehensive new Departmental Manual chapter underscores the Department’s commitment to further integrating Indigenous Knowledge and cultural practices into conservation stewardship.  

“Prioritizing the preservation of the Hawaiian language and culture and elevating Indigenous Knowledge is central to the Biden-Harris administration's work to meet the unique needs of the Native Hawaiian Community,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “As we deploy historic resources to Hawaiʻi from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the Interior Department is committed to ensuring our internal policies and communications use accurate language and data."  

Department bureaus and offices that engage in communication with the Native Hawaiian Community or produce documentation addressing places, resources, actions or interests in Hawaiʻi will use the new guidance on ‘ōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) for various identifications and references, including flora and fauna, cultural sites, geographic place names, and government units within the state.  The guidance recognizes the evolving nature of ‘ōlelo Hawaiʻi and acknowledges the absence of a single authoritative source. While the Hawaiian Dictionary (Pukui & Elbert 2003) is designated as the baseline standard for non-geographic words and place names, Department bureaus and offices are encouraged to consult other standard works, as well as the Board on Geographic Names database.  

Developed collaboratively and informed by ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi practitioners, instructors and advocates, the new guidance emerged from virtual consultation sessions and public comment in 2023 with the Native Hawaiian Community. 

The new guidance aligns with the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to strengthening relationships with the Native Hawaiian Community through efforts such as the Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program and Hawaiian Forest Bird Keystone Initiative. During her trip to Hawaiʻi in June, Secretary Haaland emphasized recognizing and including Indigenous Knowledge, promoting co-stewardship, protecting sacred sites, and recommitting to meaningful and robust consultation with the Native Hawaiian Community."

-via US Department of the Interior press release, February 1, 2024

--

Note: I'm an editor so I have no idea whether this comes off like as big a deal as it potentially is. But it is potentially going to establish and massively accelerate the adoption of correctly written Native Hawaiian language, as determined by Native Hawaiians.

Basically US government communications, documentations, and "style guides" (sets of rules to follow about how to write/format/publish something, etc.) can be incredibly influential, especially for topics where there isn't much other official guidance. This rule means that all government documents that mention Hawai'i, places in Hawai'i, Hawaiian plants and animals, etc. will have to be written the way Native Hawaiians say it should be written, and the correct way of writing Hawaiian conveys a lot more information about how the words are pronounced, too, which could spread correct pronunciations more widely.

It also means that, as far as the US government is concerned, this is The Correct Way to Write the Hawaiian Language. Which, as an editor who just read the guidance document, is super important. That's because you need the 'okina (' in words) and kahakō in order to tell apart sizeable sets of different words, because Hawaiian uses so many fewer consonants, they need more of other types of different sounds.

And the US government official policy on how to write Hawaiian is exactly what editors, publishers, newspapers, and magazines are going to look at, sooner or later, because it's what style guides are looking at. Style guides are the official various sets of rules that books/publications follow; they're also incredibly detailed - the one used for almost all book publishing, for example, the Chicago Manual of Style (CMoS), is over a thousand pages long.

One of the things that CMoS does is tell you the basic rules of and what specialist further sources they think you should use for writing different languages. They have a whole chapter dedicated to this. It's not that impressive on non-European languages yet, but we're due for a new edition (the 18th) of CMoS in the next oh two to four years, probably? Actually numbering wise they'd be due for one this year, except presumably they would've announced it by now if that was the case.

I'm expecting one of the biggest revisions to the 18th edition to add much more comprehensive guidance on non-Western languages. Considering how far we've come since 2017, when the last one was released, I'll be judging the shit out of them if they do otherwise. (And CMoS actually keep with the times decently enough.)

Which means, as long as there's at least a year or two for these new rules/spellings/orthographies to establish themselves before the next edition comes out, it's likely that just about every (legit) publisher will start using the new rules/spellings/orthographies.

And of course, it would expand much further from there.