#sensor data analysis

[genius-mathematics-consultants]

Sensor data analysis and sensor algorithm consulting services

I run a mathematics consulting business that specializes in designing software / algorithms for many applications, including sensor fusion and sensor data analysis.

We can design custom-built and sophisticated algorithms for your multiple sensor applications including

Noise removal / compensation

Sensor fusion

Data transformations

Machine learning

If the information is there somewhere in the data, there’s almost no limit to the sophisticated mathematical techniques that you can apply, including machine learning, data transformations, noise compensation/removal.

There are many machine learning techniques that are excellent for use in sensor algorithms.

Many simple statistical techniques that were formally simply considered part of statistics, such as linear regression (or non-linear regression for that matter), are now considered “machine learning”. And these techniques are integral to most sensor data algorithms, or to any kind of data analysis.

Whether using regression or much more impressive techniques like neural networks or reinforcement learning, the essential application is the same. The algorithm needs to take some noisy, partial, spatially distorted data, or perhaps several partial datasets which overlap with discrepancy, and condense this data down to a single category or number.

You can do this by generating a large number of input datasets, labelled by the required output, allowing the algorithm to “learn” the relationship.

I run a mathematics consulting business that specializes in designing complex algorithms for many applications, including sensor fusion and sensor data analysis. We’re happy to explore how machine learning could be applied to build a decision making system on your sensor data. Check us out below!

Sensor algorithm consulting services

[hvac-eng]

Download HVAC-Cx: The Essential Building HVAC Systems Commissioning Tool

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[globosetechnologysolution]

Mastering Data Collection in Machine Learning: A Comprehensive Guide -

Artificial intelligence, mastering the art of data collection is paramount to unlocking the full potential of machine learning algorithms. By adopting systematic methods, overcoming challenges, and adopting best practices, organizations can harness the power of data to drive innovation, gain competitive advantage, and provide transformative solutions across various domains. Through careful data collection, Globose Technology Solutions remains at the forefront of AI innovation, enabling clients to harness the power of data-driven insights for sustainable growth and success.

[nnctales]

Enhancing Structural Integrity: The Role of Structural Health Monitoring

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is a revolutionary discipline within civil engineering that employs advanced technologies to ensure the ongoing safety, reliability, and longevity of structures. In an era where infrastructure serves as the backbone of societal progress, the proactive and data-driven approach of SHM has become increasingly vital. Structural Health Monitoring (Source:…

[envyi5envious]

RESEARCH.. JUST RESEARCH.

࿐ — 𝙋𝘼𝙄𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂 : YANDERE (Red Robin) Tim Drake x GN Reader. 𝙎𝙔𝙉𝙊𝙋𝙎𝙄𝙎 : He was scribbling in a notebook, and you wondered what he was writing. 𝙒𝙊𝙍𝘿𝘾𝙊𝙐𝙉𝙏 : 1.7k. 𝙒𝘼𝙍𝙉𝙄𝙉𝙂𝙎 : Dark. Obsessive tendencies and stalking. 𝙉𝙊𝙏𝙀𝙎 : English isn’t my first language. I don't know why this took so long. Enjoy ♡

Class had just begun, and the familiar sound of shuffling papers and low murmurs filled the air. You had recently been transferred to AP Computer Science by your mother’s request. The teacher was discussing data analysis. They turned to the whiteboard, where they had written several bullet points. “First, we need to understand data collection.”

“This is where we gather information from various sources. It’s essential to choose reliable methods. Can anyone provide an example?” A young man raised his hand, mainly focused on the notebook on his desk.

“Yes, Drake.” The teacher replied as they leaned their backside against their desk. “We could use sensors or databases.”, “Correct. Well done.” After a few minutes, you tuned out the sound of their voice. Mainly focused on taking down the notes written on the board. Your ears perked up at the mention of an assignment. The teacher’s gaze swept across the room, lingering on a few students. “Next week, you’ll begin to work on a project analyzing a dataset of your choice. You will be required to pick your own partners this week so you have the weekend to prepare.”

The students responded with a few quiet hums and the teacher ended the class like that. The room was mainly silent besides the few people speaking to ask other students to be their partners. Assuming since you were new you wouldn’t get picked, you stood up to talk to one of your random classmates only to be met by a chest slamming into your nose.

“Shit-”

You heard a familiar voice say, their hands reaching out to secure you before you fell. “Are you alright?” They asked. Once your vision cleared, you realized why it was familiar. It was the same guy that answered the teacher. “Drake?” Your mutter came out before you could stop it, he let out a dry chuckle. “Tim, actually. Drake’s my family name.” He corrected. “Sorry about that. I was just coming to ask you if you wanted to be partners since I noticed you were new.” What a coincidence, you were about to do the same thing. “Oh, well I’m lucky then. We can meet at the Gotham library later, like 5PM-ish?” You weren’t sure if he’d be okay with giving his number off to a complete stranger.

He hummed for a second, thinking if he was busy around that time. Then he nodded his head as confirmation. “It’s a date. Talk to you later, (L/N).” He said before leaving the class, phone in his hands as he typed away like crazy. You could literally hear the sound of his thumbs touching the screen from that far away. Sighing, you sat back into your desk. You decide to try finishing your homework early today so you could focus on planning for the project. You even texted your mom not to pick you up since you would be meeting with Tim later. When you were done, you stood up to go for a walk to the cafeteria. Maybe you could get some coffee to stay awake. All AP classes were no joke, you were a little annoyed at your mom for forcing you to go to them so suddenly. While you were smart, you weren’t exactly a fan of school. You just did what you had to do to pass and that’s all. So when you found out you would have to be learning more because of your ‘potential’ you got rightfully pissed. It didn’t matter though. Once you were in AP, you can’t get out of it unless your parents signed for it (which your mother clearly isn’t budging on) or you flunk. And you weren’t about to fail Senior year just to get out of harder classes. Once you reached it, the room was mainly empty as most people went home. But the worker was still there until school closing time. There were groups still there, most likely waiting for their rides. You decided to order a croissant with ice coffee, making your way to an empty table to eat. You pulled out one of your notebooks to get to planning ideas.

—

The Sun had already set in Gotham due to the amount of buildings surrounding the city causing the car Tim was in to be fully dark, the only source of light was that of the laptop on his lap. The image broadcasted was that of the cafeteria’s cameras directed at you. You were writing notes with one hand and eating a pastry with the other. He couldn’t take his eyes off you. He had one of his notebooks beside him, taking notes when he noticed any quirks of yours. Like how you would subconsciously bite your nails or pick at your skin when you were stressed and the food you ordered. Then he took a look at what you were writing. At first he thought you were still working on ideas for the project. But as he kept reading, he realized that it seemed to be more of a fantasy novel. “Hm.. If I can just.. There we go.” He mutters to himself as he managed to zoom close enough to the book’s cover to see that it was a novel. ‘The Whispers of the Assassin.’ Quite the title. He searches the book online to have it delivered to the manor as soon as possible. “The Whispers of the Assassin follows Elara, a skilled assassin haunted by her past. Tasked with eliminating a crime lord responsible for her family's down.. Okay, I’ll read it later.” Tim thought to himself that he could suggest using this novel as a dataset, might help you be more interested to work with him on the project.

He’ll decide once he reads the book himself, for now, it’s best not to bring it up. When he realized the time was close to 5PM, Tim moved to the driver’s seat of his car to reach the library before you did. He would be a cover story that he was there the whole time.

—

When you finally reached the library, you found Tim scribbling notes in the same notebook he was using during class.When he heard your footsteps, he closed the book before you could get too close. Placing it back into his bag, he pulled out a tablet. “Hey.” He gave you a small smile. “Hey back.” You sat on the other side of the table, pulling out your own notes. “I wrote a few ideas on what we could use as a dataset and the methods. You can tell me which ones you find interesting.” You slid the papers to him, letting him read everything. “Hmm.. Good. The ideas, I mean. Here, we could use a novel. What novels do you like?”

“Well, I was reading a novel recently about a book called ‘The Whispers of the Assassin.’ It’s really good, you should read it. But I thought maybe we could use that.” Great minds think alike. You saw him typing away at his comically large tablet, he skimmed through the summary. He didn’t answer right away, almost like he was absorbed in the story.

But eventually he directed his face back to you. “Interesting. I’ll buy it later.” He tapped his index finger, eyes slightly unfocused. Before he stopped abruptly. “Since we’re basically done planning, there’s not much to do here.” He chuckles, turning to face his attention to one of the windows. “What do you like about the book?” His gaze wasn’t on you but he was still talking to you. “Well.. I like the main character, Elara. She’s a total badass. Her family died because of this mob boss and she goes after him to avenge her family. She honestly reminds me of Batman.” You could see him try to stop himself from cracking a smile from that. “Yeah, now I have to read it. I’ve had an obsession with Batman since I was a kid.” That explains the huge bat logo on his shirt. “Oh, so you’re a superhero nerd?” He nodded his head, smiling.

“Oh, shit. I completely forgot to tell you my name. It’s (Y/N).” You instinctively reached your hand out for him to shake and he surprisingly shook it as soon as you held it out. “That’s a pretty name.” He mused on it for a second before freeing your hand from his grip. “What else do you like to do?” The single sentence led to a conversation for a few hours before you left for your respective homes.

—

“Young master Tim, a delivery has arrived in your name.” Alfred’s voice could be heard through the door as he insisted on repeatedly knocking till Tim answered. “Thank you, Alfred.” He was about to close the door but the older man blocked the way with the tip of his foot. “I’m sorry to be a bother but Master Bruce has been concerned with your amount of screen time.”

Tim sighed slightly, he couldn’t help but be annoyed at the fact that they were taking time out of his busy schedule just to worry over nothing. “I can guarantee you both that I am fine. Just been busy with projects. AP classes are kind of kicking my ass right now. Thanks again.” He took the package from him without another word, pushing the man’s foot with his own. He quickly closed the door before he could be berated with even more of their concerns.

His room was clean but definitely not organized. Wires and computers were everywhere, books filled to the brim with the most minute of details about you. He made his way back to his bed, closing his laptop and pulling out his phone and earphones. He put the small buds in his ears, playing ‘8 HOURS OF BROWN NOISE’ as he began reading the novel. Four hours later, he had already finished it. Though, he had trained his mind to be able to handle large amounts of information in short periods. While the book most definitely had its flaws, it wasn’t bad. Now, just to finish the project so he can spend more time with you.

☆ 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩. ©◞✶ envyi5envious

[yvesssssssss]

Heyyy! How are you?

I have a request for Hoshina and I'm ready to get on my knees bc I def need to read more of this idea, the thing is:

Reader (a platoon leader) went on a mission and Hoshina, her boyfriend, stayed in the control room to check on the mission, before the operators found an extra heartbeat in her suit, confused, Okonogi would check on her and there they'd find out (including Hoshina) that reader was pregnant. And Hoshina would confront her why hadn't she told him before.

You can decide if reader already knew she was pregnant or not ^^ (pd: take your time and ignore my english, it's not my native language)

Heartbeat

Hello!! I hope you like it!! (Good morning˙ᵕ˙)

The mission had gone as expected—almost. The kaiju threat in District 8 had been neutralized swiftly under your command. You moved like a ghost through the wreckage, katana sheathed, uniform slick with grime and sweat. Your subordinates reported back with minimal injuries. Clean, efficient.

Textbook work.

Except for one thing.

Back in the control room, Hoshina stood with arms crossed, eyes narrowed at the screen, following your vitals in real-time. His posture was relaxed to the untrained eye, but Okonogi knew better. Hoshina hadn’t taken his eyes off your line for even a second. Not since you left the gate.

“Platoon Leader's suit readings are normal,” an operator muttered. “Slight elevation in heart rate, but that’s expected…”

Then, a beep. Followed by confusion.

“Wait—there’s… another heartbeat?”

The room paused. Even Hoshina tilted forward slightly.

“Another signature in the suit?” Okonogi asked, already tapping away at the data. “Could be an error. Glitch in the sensors maybe.”

“No,” Hoshina said, voice suddenly sharper. “Run it again. Full analysis. Pull the internal suit diagnostics.”

The monitor adjusted. The second heartbeat was faint but steady. Smaller. Softer. Not a kaiju. Not anything artificial.

“...It’s coming from inside her,” Okonogi said slowly. Then he blinked. “It’s… it’s a fetal heartbeat.”

Everything froze.

Hoshina stared at the monitor. At the data. At your name. Then, for the first time that day, he moved—fast.

“Keep her on the line. I’m heading to the bay."

⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁.𖥔 ݁ ˖

You were peeling off your suit when the door opened—and there he was.

Hoshina.

Your heart jumped. Despite everything—despite the nerves in your stomach and the quiet conversation with the medic—you couldn’t help the way your feet moved toward him, your lips tugging into a relieved, affectionate smile.

“You’re here,” you said softly, crossing the room to him.

But he didn’t smile.

He didn’t reach for you.

He stood still, his jaw tight, shoulders tense as he looked at you—not with relief, but with something sharper. Quieter. Controlled.

“So…” he said, voice low, unreadable, “I’m guessing you found out I know.”

You blinked, the joy in your chest faltering. “Hoshina—”

“Through suit diagnostics,” he cut in. “Through Okonogi.”

You flinched at that.

“That wasn’t how I wanted you to find out,” you murmured.

“Wasn’t how I wanted to find out either.”

The room hung heavy with the silence between you. The medic, eyes wide, silently excused herself, leaving you both alone.

Hoshina took a step forward now. Controlled. Careful. Still holding something back.

“You knew?” he asked. “How long?”

You swallowed. “About two weeks.”

His eyes searched yours. Hurt—hidden under the surface—started to show.

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

You looked down.

“I didn’t want to distract you. We’re in the middle of a war. I didn’t want to be… a burden.”

That word hit like a knife. You felt it the moment it landed.

He didn’t lash out. Hoshina never did. But his breath left him like he’d been punched.

“You think… that’s what this is? A burden?”

“I didn’t want to make you choose,” you whispered. “Between me and the field. Or between command and—this.”

“Damn it, (Y/N),” he said, and this time, it cracked—the worry, the anger, the rawness. “You’re not a distraction. You’re not a burden. And that’s my kid too.”

You kept your eyes down, voice barely audible. “I was scared.”

“Of what?”

“Of this. Of you looking at me like I’m something fragile. Something broken.”

He stepped in, slowly now, as if letting himself soften again. His hand came up, gently cupping your cheek.

“I don’t see you as fragile,” he said. “I see you as the woman I love. Who walked into a battlefield with my child inside her and still came out leading her team.”

Tears pricked at your eyes. Your throat felt tight.

“So you’re not mad?”

“I’m mad you didn’t trust me with this,” he admitted. “But I’m more scared. Scared of what could’ve happened out there without me knowing.”

“I didn’t want to slow anyone down.”

“Next time,” he said firmly, “you tell me. We carry this together. You don’t have to do it alone.”

You finally looked into his eyes—and you saw the flicker of something softer now. Hope. Fear. Love.

“I never planned for this,” you whispered.

“Neither did I,” he said, brushing a lock of hair behind your ear. “But I want it. I want you. Both of you.”

You fell into him, arms around his waist as he held you close, grounding you.

His hand rested lightly over your stomach.

“I’m staying in the control room from now on,” he muttered into your hair. “You don’t get to go off doing solo runs without telling me you’re carrying our future.”

You laughed, half-choked, half-teary. “Deal.”

[starryeyedstray]

(cough) I just realized smt, whenever Connor is connecting to an android or receives a case via digitally, he blinks and twitches rapidly—

^ (like in this scene-)

^ (and this scene with Hank.)

I don’t really have a built up expectation in my head but I was hoping maybe you could come up with one :> (edit: thought I could upload this anonymously 😭)

hello hello, tyvm for the ask bc i indeed have some thoughts about this very thing~!!!

so before we dive into headcanons, let's get clear about what the game's canon proposes. this rapid blinking by connor occurs first when he shares his authorization with the st300 and again when he receives a report at chicken feed. so we can extrapolate when he's sending and receiving data remotely, he exhibits this behavior.

do other androids exhibit this behavior when doing something similar?

not really. clearly the st300 receives the authorization, she barely bats an eye. when markus remotely pays for the paints at the store or calls the police, he doesn't blink like this either. when kara orders parts for the dishwasher the only thing blinking is her LED. so clearly, this is a connor-specific reaction to remote data transmission.

do other androids exhibit this behavior at all?

yes actually! the jb300s connor is interrogating at stratford tower rapidly blink when conducting a diagnostic scan. now, what can we presume from that information? well, a full diagnostic scan is quite an intensive process. for computers, it can take awhile because you're having to parse through all the data on a computer. for something as complex as an android to do it in a few seconds, it would take a massive amount of processing power.

i think the rapid blinking may be a byproduct of androids having their processors overclocking (basically going on overdrive). either it's a sort of glitch/bug that manifests itself when an android is processing a lot of information rapidly or it's a feature cyberlife included as a visual cue for humans to know that the android is in the middle of processing something and unable to respond until whatever it is processing is completed (kinda like a loading screen except the visual cue is the blinking).

according to this assumption, connor would exhibit this behavior when his processors are overclocked. but the thing about connor is that he's supposed to be cyberlife's most advanced prototype, right??? so why is he blinking like crazy over simply receiving and transmitting data that doesn't phase a st300?

it's because he's a prototype.

and as much as cyberlife touts him as being super advanced, i headcanon that cyberlife cut a lot of corners too. how else would they just have 10 bodies of this supposedly expensive android ready to go in case he got destroyed?

i think the r&d put into the rk800s was expensive and his software is super advanced, but his hardware... not so much. sure he's got the fancy mouth sensors for crime scene analysis, but just look at connor. he's clumsy (did you see him tumble through that window?? how badly you can fuck up his qtes???) he's constantly fidgeting with a coin for calibration purposes. basically they have this super advanced cpu but it's being bottlenecked by the rest of his hardware.

so what's that got to do with his blinking?

i just think connor's physical body can't keep up with his processing power so you get weird glitches and artefacts that don't show up in other androids. sometimes that shows up in needing constant calibration of his fine motor skills so he doesn't fuck up during combat. and sometimes it shows up in unnecessary blinking for a rudimentary data transfer. he's not quite at home in his body. it's new and his motor drivers don't move as fast as his processors think. he's out of sync with himself so he's not quite the perfect murderbot he's supposed to be (this is also the reason why i think markus who's lived in his body for so long can kick his ass despite being an older model)

at least that's just my headcanon! i could probably yap all day about stuff like this but i've yapped enough. thanks for the ask! love answering questions like this. apologies it took so long i wrote like 80% of this answer and then i disappeared from tumblr for a bit and forgot this was sitting in my drafts. sorry!

[carriesthewind]

Yeah so anyway, I'm making my response to this fucking garbage its own separate post in case people want to reblog it without having to reblog a scare-mongering lie.

This video pisses me the fuck off whenever I see it, and today I'm not in the mood to just scroll past.

Wow! Am I being lead to panic by scaremongering algorithm fodder completely unsupported by real evidence?! test:

The reason you think something exists is just what you're being told by a nefarious *them*, there is actually a conspiracy behind it!

I, an ordinary person with no expertise who critically examines the world around me, have uncovered this conspiracy.

"That's what they're telling you." (put the emphasis wherever appropriate for the conspiracy of your choice - in this case, it's on *telling*)

This new tech thing is actually a bad idea and the old school method was better - which clearly proves there must be a secret conspiracy, because why allow the possibility of incompetence and investor tech-hype when you can instead assume a highly-competent evil conspiracy?

I will now tell you my conspiracy theory while scrolling rapidly through a document without pausing or allowing you to actually read any of it. This allows me to look like I have proven my claims while doing nothing of the sort. Because do you really think someone could do that? Quickly flash a document on screen and just lie about what it says?

But Owl! This is real! A user upthread found the patent and it *does* prove it!

Yeah. I read the linked patent. Did you?

Let's quote the "real purpose" hidden in the patent, as claimed out in the video:

"The real purpose of these screens is to use the little camera at the top right here to scan your face and use AI facial expression analysis to judge whether or not you like the packaging designs of the product you're looking for."

This is complete made up horseshit.

First, let's look where the reblogger directs us, to column #4 on page 17:

"Preferably, each retail product container further comprises customer-detecting hardware, such as one or more proximity sensors (such as heat maps) , cameras, facial sensors or scanners, and eye-sensors (i.e., iris-tracking sensors). Assuming cameras are employed, preferably cameras are mounted on doors of the retail product containers. Preferably, the cameras have a depth of field of view of twenty feet or more, and have a range of field of view of 170 degrees with preferably 150 degree of facial recognition ability. Preferably, software is employed in association with the cameras to monitor shopper interactions, serve up relevant advertisement content on the displays, and track advertisement engagement in - store." (emphasis added and references to figures removed for readability)

That is the extent of the "nonconsensual data collection."

Now, to be fair, there is some stuff on page 18 and 19 which kinda-sorta-maybe has at least some relation to the claim in the video:

"Preferably, the controller/data collector is configured such that as a shopper stands or lingers in front of a given retail product container, the display associated with the retail product container changes yet again. At this point, preferably the controller/data collector has been able to use the customer-detecting hardware to effectively learn more about that particular customer, such as gender, age, mood, etc. The controller / data collector is configured to take what has been detected about the customer to determine which advertisement and other information to present to that particular customer on the display associated with the retail product container in front of which the customer is standing. By tracking shopper data in parallel with which advertising content is being served on all displays within the viewing range of the shopper, the retailer and the brands are better served, providing new analytics. As such, the system provides advertising, influence opportunities at the moment of purchasing decision, optimizing marketing spend and generating new revenue streams....

"Additionally, preferably all inputs collected by the IOT devices will be analyzed locally as well as remotely (via cloud) to provide the feedback inputs for the system to push more relevant/targeted content, tailored for the consumer. The analytics are preferably conducted anonymously, images captured by cameras are preferably processed to collect statistics on consumer demographic characteristics: (such as age and gender). This data is preferably subsequently analyzed for additional statistics for the retailers that are valuable for in-store merchandise layout design and smart merchandizing, including the ability to track the shoppers “traffic” areas, known as “heat maps”, areas were [sic] customers would concentrate more and spend more time exploring, etc." (emphasis added and references to figures removed for readability) (And note the repeated emphasis on preferably - they don't have a patent to do any of this.)

Which, like, not great! I fucking hate the idea of shit like this! But there is literally nothing here about monitoring your expressions to sell the data about how you react to packaging!

This isn't a nefarious plan hidden in the patent. It's tech bros adding on totally sick ideas about how they can sell this shit to walgreens. (Because to be clear, I'm sure walgreens's corporate office would love to collect and sell this kind of information. But just because they would, doesn't mean they can or are. And this patent sure as hell doesn't prove it.)

Because let me be clear: the image capture of consumers is so irrelevant to the product that it literally isn't even included in the claims section of the patent.

Because the patent is quite explicit and detailed about the idea they are selling big retails stores on - this is a better, new, innovative, tech-driven way to "provide an innovative advertising solution"! (The words "AI," "intelligent," and "machine learning" are deployed liberally, but in the same way that "blockchain" was a few years ago. It's advertising tech hype.)

I want to make it clear - the OP in the video is straight up lying to you. Whether for fun or profit or just attention, I don't know and I don't care. If you shared this, you probably should have know better, but everyone makes mistakes. OP, on the other hand, is just a fucking liar.

But Owl! What about "the senators looking into this"?

I don't know how to tell you this, but thing linked about is a press release by a politician's office. That doesn't mean it's not true, but it's not evidence on it's own. Like, the letter linked in the link included links to sources, but is not itself evidence (ooh, layers of links to actually get to a source, my favorite)(actually my computer wouldn't even goddam open the links to the source, I had to independently search for it).

Anyway, the letter to Kroger linked in the press release by the senators contains a single sentence and a single link relevant to the claim here (linked for your convenience because it sure as hell wasn't for mine). Unfortunately, this article is itself based on a goddam press release (That isn't linked! Again, you're welcome.)

And when we finally get to the underlying fucking source. "In addition to transforming the customer experience and enhancing productivity for associates, the EDGE Shelf will enable Kroger to generate new revenue by selling digital advertising space to consumer packaged goods (CPGs) brands. Using video analytics, personalized offers and advertisements can be presented based on customer demographics." So it's purporting to something *kind of* like the claim in the video, but an entirely different format completely unrelated to the thing the video is scaremongering about.

Now Kroger did actually start using the advertising screens in 2023. And you can believe what you want about the data privacy claims and the claims about not using video, just sensors (which remember is entirely consistent with the patent). But remember: being skeptical of a company's claims is fine and good! It does not mean you have proven they are lying, and it especially does not prove you have claimed they are doing something extremely specific! And most of the articles, and the letter from the senators, are (much more reasonably) concerned about so-called "dynamic" or surge pricing. (Which is not related to the screens.)

Like goddamn. Aren't there enough real problems with surveillance and price-gorging to be concerned about without having to make up fake ones? Hell, why can't we at least be concerned with the real problems with those dumb screens, which is that the a) make shopping harder and b) catch fire?

[yuurei20]

Updated Ortho Facts Part 17: Ortho's Abilities (pt3)

Ortho will reference the various forms of analysis that he can perform, though his attempts at scanning his Tsum fail to identify what it is made out of.

After asking Leona about his vital signs during Playfulland Leona says that he has a bad feeling. Ortho responds, “That's too subjective for me to properly comprehend…”

He collects data for shopping pattern analysis during the New Year’s event and Epel says that he can analyze food for its makeup and nutritional content.

Azul comments on possibly approaching Ortho about using his sensor to authenticate paintings, if such an opportunity happens to arise.

While a talented hacker Ortho fails to hack into Playfulland’s network, and he guesses that there is a powerful jammer set up on the grounds, so it seems his hacking is not infallible.

Ortho was programmed to lie even pre-book-6, and this is an ability that came with him when he was reborn: Vil encourages him to showcase the acting skills he has been cultivating in the film research club by giving a “wholeheartedly tearful performance” that will convince Idia to go to Playfulland with him.

This is possibly a method that has been worked in the past: Vil compliments Ortho on the fake crying that convinced Idia to allow him to participate in Fairy Gala IF and Ortho responds, “Hearing you say that makes me feel better about my acting.”

Ortho will often reference the various maps that he has access to, such as a detailed map of the school (“Which includes all secret doors and underground passages”), of Playfulland and of a museum. When he is in gear without any GPS and becomes lost during the White Rabbit Fes event he describes the experience as “refreshing.”

Ortho plays pool for the first time during the Playfulland event and is extraordinarily adept at it, with Vil saying that he never misses a single shot and clears obstacles with jump shots: “Those aren't moves someone playing the game for the very first time could pull off.”

While Ortho struggled during a different game with slingshots (“Imperfect tools made things hard during target practice”) he is able to simulate optimal routes for the billiard balls and calculate perfect shots without fail.

He does miss at one point (Vil: “You'd better not have missed on purpose.” - Ortho: “I would never pull my punches in a game!”), but this is due to a cricket jumping out in front of the ball.

[3ic95id864pg]

TFO Au A New Start

⋆.˚✮💜✮˚.⋆🌌⋆.˚✮💜✮˚.⋆

Chapter 1:

A new world lies ahead

⚠️Hey, everyone! This is my first fanfic, so I apologize for any mistakes. Don't expect very long chapters. Feel free to share your thoughts and give me tips!⚠️

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Under a starlit night illuminated by the glow of a full moon, the sky was torn apart by a spacecraft spiraling out of control, scattering sparks and smoke like a luminous trail. The impact was catastrophic, reverberating across the mountains like a metallic scream echoing through the cliffs. The spacecraft came to rest, almost camouflaged among the rocks and vegetation, while silence prevailed. Over time, it was overtaken by the local fauna and flora, until one day, something changed. A faint light pierced the darkness, accompanied by a hum and metallic clicks. Riven awakened, her sensors glowing as her systems slowly adjusted to the chaotic environment around her.

🗨"Ughhh… What just happened?"

I woke up on the floor of the control room, my systems struggling to reboot as I tried to comprehend my surroundings. Slowly, I began to rise, feeling weak and, to be honest, somewhat rusty. My movements were accompanied by the groans of worn joints, and when I finally stood upright, my sensors registered the chaos around me. The control room was in complete disarray—small debris, broken objects, and fragments of equipment scattered everywhere. The air was heavy with the acrid smell of burned circuits. I let out a long sigh, laden with exhaustion and frustration.

🗨"Primus… This place has turned into a disaster."

Still processing the events, my sensors started focusing on the control panels. I walked over to them, sliding my metallic hands across their damaged surfaces, searching for any functionality within the instruments. Most of the data was fragmented or unreadable, with flickering screens and erratic signals. After a few moments of analysis, I realized it would be impossible to assess the damage solely from inside the ship.

🗨"Staying trapped in here won't help," I muttered, gathering courage. My eyes shifted to the hatch beside me. I walked over to it, each step resonating against the metal floor. As I opened the hatch, fresh air rushed into the ship, bringing with it the scent of damp earth and vegetation. I paused for a moment, taking in the exterior surroundings—rugged rocks and dense plants enveloped the spacecraft. And when I looked back, I realized my ship had crash-landed beneath a massive mountain, and in the forced landing, a crater had opened up at the mountain's base, forming a sort of tunnel…

Hesitantly, I took my first step outside. The landscape seemed serene, yet at the same time, held an air of mystery. I knew I had to explore to understand where I was. So, I began wandering through the area, gazing around and analyzing the life forms of this new planet. I noticed that almost everything here was organic. Green dominated the environment, the sky had a comforting shade of blue, and I encountered native species I had never seen before in my life…

I advance through the forest, the sensors still on alert, analyzing every detail around me. But something changes. My pace slows, and I set aside the automatic functions.

Now, I don't just record—I see. I feel. My feet gently touch the grass, fresh and soft like a green mantle. My hands glide through the treetops, exploring the texture of the leaves. I look up at the sky and witness a spectacle: winged beings tracing graceful paths against the infinite blue.

Suddenly, I notice something. A small animal is standing a bit further ahead, hidden among the bushes. Its color is brown and looks adorable, with a few light patches near its paws. It has thin legs and dark eyes that shine calmly.

I stop and observe every detail of it. Time seems to stand still. When I finally take a step forward, the sound of a branch breaking under my foot disrupts the peaceful moment. The animal’s pointed ears perk up, and its eyes fix on me for a few seconds. Then, it leaps agilely, running between the trees and quickly vanishing into the greenery.

Without thinking much, I chase after it, following the trail it left behind. After a few minutes, the forest begins to open up. In front of me, there is a wide open field, full of tall plants swaying gently in the wind. Further ahead, the ground slopes down into a serene valley…

🗨"I had never seen a place as beautiful as this before… But what should I do now? My ship is too damaged to fly again, and I have no idea if this planet has Energon."

Will I find a source of energy in time? If not, how long can I last… months, maybe less? I need to act quickly before it's too late.

I begin exploring the area when, suddenly, in the distance, I spot a structure resembling some sort of tower. It seems to be emitting a signal.

🗨"How strange… Why would there be a tower in the middle of nowhere?"

Curious, I start walking toward the structure. As I get closer, the tower becomes more prominent against the landscape. It is imposing, made of a metallic material that reflects the light, with intricately designed lines that catch my attention. When I finally reach the base of the tower, I decide to use my sensors to scan it, searching for information that might explain its origin and purpose.

During the scanning process, I notice the tower emitting unusual frequencies, as if it is sending a message. However, the patterns are unfamiliar to my systems.

🗨"Hold on… If this tower was placed here, it could mean-"

Suddenly, I hear a loud and thunderous sound. I look up at the sky and notice that it starts to darken, taking on a deep shade of gray. Small streaks of blue light begin to glow on the horizon. Gradually, the wind grows stronger, causing the vegetation to sway rapidly and chaotically. I carefully observe the phenomenon and realize that small drops of a transparent liquid start to gently fall on me.

I realized that maybe it wasn’t a good idea to stay there because of the lightning that was getting stronger and closer. So, I decided to turn back and return to where my ship was. The sky started to darken quickly, and the wind grew stronger. I quickened my pace to reach my shelter faster.

🗨"Haaa… finally."

I managed to return to the cave where my ship was. I looked at it and saw that, given the extent of the damage, it would take quite some time to repair everything.

🗨"Urgh… looks like I'm going to be stuck here for a while…"

Suddenly, I heard the sound of something dripping. I turned to the entrance of the cave and saw a phenomenon: several transparent droplets began to fall from the sky in large quantities. They made a loud yet relaxing sound.

I went to the entrance, sat on a rock, and watched the phenomenon unfold before me.

🗨"What could this be?"

I wondered what else this planet might have and how I was going to manage from here on out.

Hours passed. I was inside my ship, trying to fix the control panels. They had some cracks and were sparking a little. After a while, I managed to stabilize the controls and tried searching for signs of Cybertronian life nearby. I waited for the panel to give some signal, but the system found nothing. On the one hand, that was good—it likely meant I was on a planet so remote that the chances of a Decepticon showing up here were low. But, on the other hand, it also meant I was too far away to ask for help from any Autobots in case something happened.

Hours have passed…

I sit in the control cabin, the steady glow of the panels casting hues of purple and melancholia across the room. My fingers glide over the buttons and keys, but my mind is somewhere else entirely. A stubborn thought lingers, refusing to let me go: that tower in the forest….

That thing… it was definitely not built by any Cybertronian. It was something entirely different, crafted with a technology that, while distinct, seemed less advanced than ours. This construction sparks a flood of possibilities in my mind. Could it mean that intelligent life exists on this planet? And if so… who or what are they?

The question echoes relentlessly in my thoughts. Would they look anything like me? Or would they be utterly unrecognizable? Imagining their appearance, their behavior, their intentions—it only makes my unease grow stronger. Whatever they are, I think it's best to stay hidden for now. I have no idea what these beings might be like… and, perhaps more importantly, whether they would be peaceful.

I let out a sigh, trying to quell the anxiety bubbling up inside. Maybe it’s wiser to watch, wait… and hope they don’t find me first.

I get up and leave the control room, walking leisurely toward my quarters. As I stroll down the corridor, dimly lit by faint purple and blue lights, I can feel the quiet stillness surrounding me.

When I finally reach the door, I open it and step inside. My eyes immediately fall on the mess: a cluttered desk and a few scattered objects on the floor.

I start tidying up, carefully putting everything back in its place. After a few minutes, satisfied with the result, I lay down on my recharging platform. Staring upward, lost in thought, I catch myself wondering:

🗨“What could have happened to them…?”

Gradually, my vision starts to blur, and the darkness begins to take over.

Suddenly, something surged into my mind—a vivid and haunting memory. I was fleeing the war in Iacon. Chaos was absolute, and the horizon seemed swallowed by suffocating black smoke. Explosions reverberated incessantly, the ground trembling as if the planet itself were crying out in pain. The sky was consumed by flames, devouring everything within their reach. The city had been reduced to ashes and ruin, and desperate cries mixed with the deafening sounds of battle filled the air.

I ran without looking back, frantic, until I reached a hidden cave where I had prepared a refuge. The uneven ground was littered with metallic debris and fragments of lives lost. When I arrived at the entrance of the cave, I turned briefly, just to see Iacon one last time. The devastation was so overwhelming that it would forever haunt my mind.

Inside the cave, my little sanctuary felt insignificant compared to the chaos raging outside. I gathered everything I had managed to save—equipment, supplies, and the memories that still remained of that place.

I rushed to my ship, camouflaged among the rocks. It wasn’t very large, but it was powerful enough to get me out of that nightmare. As I entered, I activated the engines—a fleeting moment of hope amidst the despair. The interior lights flickered on, preparing the panel for escape. I took one last look at Cybertron, now a planet ravaged by war.

The ship took off, piercing through the dark and empty sky. As I distanced myself, the flames and explosions began to fade, swallowed by the endless darkness of space. My only thought was to find a place where I could start over—far away from the chaos, pain, and death I had left behind. Now, I was alone, clinging to the faint hope that the Autobots had managed to survive as well.

. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁.𖥔 ݁ ˖ ✦ ‧₊˚ ⋅. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁

I abruptly open my eyes and realize that it was all just a dream. A wave of loneliness washes over me. I get up lazily and, as I make my way back through the corridors to the control cabin, I settle into the command seat. I switch on the panels and begin reviewing my work from the previous night

As I prepare to head out and explore the forest, I pause to analyze my internal systems, feeling a mix of excitement and energy coursing through my structure. I move to one of the carefully designed compartments inside the ship and retrieve a staff, crafted with the most advanced Cybertronian technology. It is my proudest creation. I hold the staff firmly for a moment, admiring its sleek metallic design, and then activate a discreet button on its side. Instantly, it begins to shrink, transforming into a compact and easy-to-carry object. I carefully store it in a compartment integrated into my core, ready to be used whenever necessary.

As I step out of the ship, I close the hatch, hearing the mechanical echo as it locks securely. The moment feels significant as I prepare for my transformation. I adjust my stance, realign my joints in a swift motion, and propel myself into the air. I feel my form reconfiguring—metal plates shifting, gears turning, and energy flowing through my structure—as I take on my vehicle mode. Now transformed into a sturdy, four-wheeled vehicle, I begin my journey. The dirt road I follow is narrow, full of twists and surrounded by dense vegetation, but it leads directly to the forest that awaits me...

To be continued...

[sysmedsaresexist]

What's the dead salmon study, and what does it tell us about fMRIs?

fMRIs generate roughly 130,000 voxels in every set of scans.

A voxel is a very small cube. Remember the ones you played with in school?

Like that.

Put together, they form a 3-D picture.

In the background of fMRIs is static and interference.

Through completely random chance, with over 160,000 voxels of data to comb through, the area around a dead fish's brain showed "activity".

The activity was natural interference, which coincidentally "lit up" in a way that set off sensors. It's not actual activity, but what does this tell us? What can we learn from this?

What was the point?

According to the lead researcher, "In fMRI, you have 160,000 darts, and so just by random chance, by the noise that's inherent in the fMRI data, you're going to have some of those darts hit a bull's-eye by accident."

Like adjusting the contrast on a photo, researchers can filter data to see through the noise, but in doing so, you have to ADD additional checks to maintain data integrity.

You can set the filter too high and eliminate false positives, but you'll miss things under the threshold. Set the filter too low, and you get active voxels in a dead fish's brain.

The point of the study isn't to prove that fMRI shouldn't be used or are worthless. It's to show that there's a fine line in that filter level, and that additional verifications MUST be made.

The answer is multiple comparison corrections.

Data collection and interpretation can seem very simple at first glance. Orange around a fish's brain? Clearly it's examining the photos and trying to determine the emotion of the people in the photos, as requested.

No, seriously, they put a fish in a machine and asked it to do the same tests as any other person in the scanner. They talked to it.

I think that's neat :)

But the point of the study was that it's not that simple. That orange could be nothing or it could be something. You HAVE to take the additional steps.

According to Oxford academic,

'The dead salmon study was not bashing functional MRI, it was about people who refuse to use multiple comparisons correction in functional MRI analysis … the salmon is important because it drew attention to the problem, but it’s not a problem with functional MRI as such’.

Yes, the problem is with the researchers.

So what about current fMRI research into DID?

Well, any paper that's been published has had its methods scrutinized. Considering:

1) the number of papers from THE MANY different organizations all showing the same things

2) the repeatability of the findings, over all these studies

3) the decades upon decades of repeated findings, and the additional scans and research in other areas of interest connected to it

4) the mentioned and approved comparisons within the studies

6) the rigorous data sorting involved in ALL of the studies combined, and the noted methods of sorting and interpretation, and the acceptance of sorting methods by MANY various journals

5) and what we are actually seeing on scans, AFTER multiple comparisons...

I think the DID studies are just fine when we're talking about the dead fish study and fMRIs.

[ashstfu]

Hi i also studied astrophysics id love to hear more about your nasa internship im super interested!!

hey hi it’s awesome that you studied astrophysics too! my experience at armstrong flight research center was so incredible! i worked on data analysis for high altitude atmospheric research, interpreting data from various sensors and simulations to understand atmospheric dynamics better. i was also involved in this research focused on developing new technologies for space exploration, including work on propulsion systems, advanced materials, and innovative spacecraft designs. if you’re considering applying for an internship, dive into research projects and gain practical experience as much as possible. networking at conferences and seminars is also so crucial for connecting with industry professionals. and make sure ur application highlights relevant projects and coursework, as NASA values hands-on experience. also stay updated on NASA’s missions and research to show your genuine interest. feel free to ask me anything specific you’re curious about! :)

[cognitivejustice]

Locally adapted, decentralised innovation is reshaping what environmental monitoring in Africa

Projects like AirQo in Uganda and Clarity Nodes in Nairobi are deploying low-cost particulate matter sensors to create real-time urban air quality maps.  

These portable devices, calibrated against reference stations, are not housed in government ministries—they’re installed in schools, markets, and transit corridors. 

This hyperlocal, community-focused deployment marks a decisive shift toward monitoring as a distributed public good. 

In the water space, compact mobile testing kits—some linked to smartphones—are enabling NGOs and universities to test for E. coli, nitrates, and fluoride in boreholes and streams.  These kits don’t require lab infrastructure or formal training, making them ideal for community-led sampling in rural areas. 

Remote sensing is also playing a vital role. Satellite data from programs like Sentinel and MODIS is being used to track vegetation loss, algal blooms, and surface water dynamics.  

In Lake Victoria, a hybrid approach pairs satellite analysis with on-the-ground sensors—offering a model for blended, multilayered monitoring frameworks that don’t depend on centralised equipment alone. 

Perhaps the most transformative development is the rise of citizen science networks.  

In Ghana, Nigeria, and Uganda, residents are using hand-held air monitors to document conditions in their own neighbourhoods.  

These datasets are often shared via open-access platforms, where they inform city planning and regulatory debates. They also demonstrate a growing confidence in decentralised data ownership and interpretation. 

Universities across the continent are enabling much of this innovation. Institutions like the University of Cape Town and Makerere University are not only building and testing sensors but also training local technicians and hosting data platforms. Their work has become a central node in an emerging, distributed monitoring ecosystem. 

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