Most agree that it’s possible to identify AI generated content: what about partial and hybrid?
There’s a gold rush of sorts in the peripheral app market with an explosion of tools coming out with various ChatGPT related services. On the one side there are AI detectors, meant to identify “non-human” text, at the other end of the spectrum are rephrasing tools to help “cheaters” in schools, or perhaps just blog writers to disguise AI origins with minimal (human) work.
There is, by many, the assumption that Google is or will block or penalize any AI generated content in search results. At the same time companies like CNET, and recently announced Buzzfeed, plus undoubtedly many others, are already publishing or developing content written wholly or partially by AI.
Of course, many publishers have been using computer generated content for years in areas like the stock market and weather updates, where human text would be too expensive to use when the volume of ever changing data points is so high.
It is also questionable if the various apps even function as advertised. For example if a rephrasing app can fool a public AI detector can it also fool Google’s proprietary software?
The bigger issue is: why?
Derivative content and low quality information has been a staple of the online experience since the first bulletin board chat rooms of yore. Even if possible, is it necessary or clearly desirable to filter out all content that has an AI component from Google search results, for example?
Could this also be seen as an anticompetitive move to try to reduce the value of the software of a competitor? And what percentage of AI “infection” should be considered taboo? 90%? How about 47%? And if those percentages are calculated using tools that themselves have an error rate of 10% or more, what is really happening?
Will humans be rewarded by Google for not using AI to assist, at least not directly in content creation or publishing? If not, then how are those humans laboring at a disadvantage going to be able to compete with those that do take the assistance?
ChatGPT and other AI tools are already in circulation and growing
The output of ChatGPT is usually somewhat bland, and depending on the subject matter, often gleaned from obvious sources – it is designed to avoid misinformation by avoiding unusual “untrusted” sources.
This creates text that reads as “safe”, and while generally highly readable and grammatically accurate, is not particularly creative, at least not by human standards. My human prediction is that, with the horse already out of the barn, so to speak, there is no way for any sensible filter to be used that would eliminate AI generated text or AI influenced content from existing side by side with “pure” human generated content.
As Google was quoted to have indicated in tweets, basically, content is content and if it is well written and helpful for humans to read and use in human life, then it is just as good for consumption, with or without AI assistance. They point out that mainly content that is manufactured specifically to trick search engines is what they absolutely hope to filter, not all AI assisted content, even if that were possible. Simple right?
No chatbots were harmed in the making of this content
All that’s left then is the question of best uses for AI in the writing and content publishing process. Best, not in the sense of having AI “fingerprints” or not, but rather in the quality and usefulness of the final product. Same as it ever was. Right?
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So if you're an SEO trying to figure out how AI fits in with being successful or not on Google, you're too focused on the tool not the content. Is the content you're producing helpful, reliable and people-first in nature? That's what we're looking for: https://t.co/rIKwa9fs7R
Unusual January announcement with big product reveal
Apple dropped a lot of upgrade news today. Though still early in the year, it’s already preparing for the next generation of machines powered by Apple Silicon. With two models each, one using the M2 chip, and another Pro model with the M2 Pro inside, there are 2 new levels of power and performance, with a variety of options and configurations.
The MacBook Pro models come in 14′ and 16′ screen configurations and, as one would surmise, there’s more speed, memory capacity, and a ton of other upgraded features. With all the power, speed and invisible upgrades, constantly coming via software, machine learning and AI, one can only wonder if there are simply too many options, and choices in the ever expanding line up.
Also, coming after the dramatic price drop at Tesla, would this be considered a similar move to boost lagging sales? If you are in a position to afford a new Mac, and you need the power for media related activities, you are in luck as this is a big, meaty refresh, particularly if you opt for the Pro level of performance.
The Mac mini is priced at $599 with an M2 chip, which is 100$ less than the prior version, or at $1,299 with the M2 Pro. The new 14-inch MacBook Pro with M2 starts at $1,999. The 16-inch MacBook Pro model will cost at least $2,499. All of the newly configured models will be available beginning Jan. 24, but you can order the computers beginning Tuesday.
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It’s normal for writers to keep repeating sound bites instead of looking deeper
So much nonsense has been written in the guise of outing the flaws of Open AI’s ChatGPT3 that it is hard to know where to begin. Let’s start by saying that this article will not be a systematic evaluation. There are other articles that you can find here and elsewhere that give a rundown of the various features and how they “rate” according to “experts”.
Secondly, the topic here is not the coding capabilities, or the possible uses beyond the primary strength of the chatbot, which is language. The main positive feedback seen is the speed and fluency of the responses. An obligatory mention of how it is “scary” and will improve, and then a jump to whose job is at risk.
Depending on who’s writing (humans I mean) the assessment runs the gamut from, “sorry dude my job is safe” to “we’re all F#cked”. The problem is that the various straw man arguments are based on shallow thought and misguided premises.
The infinite loop of inaccuracy fallacy
For example: the idea that, since ChatGPT 3 was trained using publicly available data, presumably a lot of it on the internet, that a kind of endless loop will form that takes bad data (what we already have on the internet) and then uses it to spit out diluted, worse, bad data, which is then regurgitated and…. You get the picture.
The problem with this theory is that humans are caught fully in this highway to hell already. Dumb humans write things and publish them on the internet, other dummer humans read that stuff and use it to write even dummer stuff, and so on. And then, Ouroboros, you’ve got the situation before ChatGPT arrived on scene.
Furthermore, if you ask ChatGPT to name sources and references you’ll see that, for the most part, they are far better and more carefully chosen than the average human research intern assistant at Buzzfeed. Or Daily Beast for that matter.
Similar to the grammar and spelling, which is, for the most part, impeccable, the sourcing is, if anything, too conservative. Paywall protected research sites come up often, for example.
So, in reality, there could be just about as much chance of ChatGPT “cleaning” and filtering the muck of the internet than there is the reverse, as so many have stated. Mistakes made by a chatbot? Of course. By humans, hahahahahah, to err is human, right?
The Real Situation, a.k.a. you are now a movie producer x3
A better fantasy analogy as to what this newfangled toy is all about would be to think about who pays writers (low level 1st draft writers) and what the output is for those employers when they do.
The obvious example does not even apply. If you want to have a writer churn out “news”, such as for example the inside dope on Kanye West’s new wife, you’re out of luck with ChatGPT, as the end of 2021 is a hard cutoff for available information (as of now).
So, how about fiction then? A caricature of movie making would be a good analogy. Say you have a movie producer, or director, or both, and neither are writers, and they don’t want to buy the rights to a novel or other property to adapt.
What do they do? They come up with a half-baked idea, “concept” in the lingo, and then hire a writer to develop the idea into a first draft of a script. ChatGPT can do something similar.
So what usually happens next? People read the first draft and hate it. They pick it apart and make “notes”. Then, often, they fire the writer who did the hopelessly dreadful first draft, and hire a second writer to do a new draft.
This can go on for months, even years, and all sorts of writers can take a stab at the beast with steely knives until there’s some kind of consensus that it should be made into a film.
Often, this too is not the final version, like when the final scene in the script for “Pretty Woman”, according to the internet bore little resemblance to the film we know : “Instead of Richard Gere’s character’s swoon-worthy climb from his limousine to “rescue” Vivian from her fire escape, Julia explains that the film ended with her being thrown “out of the car, he threw the money on top of her, as memory serves, and just drove away, leaving her in some dirty alley.”
The point? Any form of writing is a creative, infinitely mutable, process. ChatGPT can be a contributor to that process, and can be endlessly “fired” and replaced, currently at a cost of zero dollars.
While that may be no substitute for the glorious Hollywood system described above, the idea that, for some stages of development of many writing projects, it could be a cost effective alternative to hacks and divas, is just about right.
If a continuation of this topic seems appropriate, a more insightful direction for the conversation would be about digital deflation.
It is the amount of output that ChatGPT is able to perform at a very low cost (based on the current price of zero) that represents a continuation of the theme of digital deflation, often a shell game where a “free service” somehow magically turns into a trillion dollar business (which eventually collapses, another story), that will cut deeper into society and the economy.
Forces are aligning to accelerate the inevitable: a decentralized solution for power production and distribution
Today it is not easy to imagine a world where the centralized electrical grid has become unnecessary and its use is discontinued. In such a world, distributed energy systems, such as localized microgrid power plants, will have become the primary means of generating and distributing electricity.
In this world, communities and businesses would generate their own electricity using a combination of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and local energy storage systems. These microgrids would be connected to one another, forming a decentralized network of energy production and distribution.
As a result of this shift, the need for large centralized power plants and transmission lines would eventually be eliminated. Instead, energy would be generated closer to the point of consumption, reducing the enormous transmission losses and costs inherent in the current centralized systems. Additionally, because microgrids can operate independently, they would be less vulnerable to disruptions caused by natural disasters or cyber attacks, leading to increased energy security and reliability.
Furthermore, in this future scenario, individuals, communities and businesses would have greater control over their energy production and consumption. For example, excess energy generated by a community’s microgrid could be shared with neighboring communities or sold back to the grid or grids. Consumers would be able to choose from a variety of energy service providers, leading to more competition in the market and lower costs for consumers.
The use of renewable energy sources would also be the default in this world, as microgrids would allow for more efficient use of resources and can help to improve the overall reliability of the system. The integration of renewable energy sources as standard would also lead to an overall more rapid reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, which would have a cumulative positive impact on the environment and public health.
The concept of energy poverty would be greatly reduced as well, as microgrids can provide greater access to electricity and economic opportunities for marginalized communities. Furthermore, the shift towards microgrids would also promote local economic development and job creation, as sustainable microgrid power plants can be owned and operated by individuals, communities and small businesses.
Overall, the ultimate end scenario, when the centralized electrical grid has become unnecessary and its use is discontinued, would be one where communities and businesses have greater control over their energy production and consumption, leading to increased energy security and reliability, lower costs for consumers, and a reduction in income inequality and environmental impact.
There are massive forces already marshaling to protect the legacy systems
The potential for distributed power plants, virtual power storage systems, and sustainable production and consumption in close proximity to one another is unlimited.
However the existing systems, still based primarily on fossil fuel powered, centralized power plants and a huge grid network (3 in the US, to be precise) for distribution, with all the attendant problems, are already being targeted for massive expansion and renovation.
The US centralized power grid system, as we know it, is facing several major challenges as the demand for electricity continues to rise. One of the most significant problems is the aging infrastructure. Many of the transmission lines, substations and power plants that make up the grid were built decades ago and are in need of upgrading or replacement.
The likely time and cost to upgrade and repair the systems is extreme, measured in years and even decades and billions if not trillions of dollars.
This not only poses a risk to the reliability of the system but also leads to increased maintenance costs. Furthermore, as the population continues to grow and urbanize, the demand for electricity is increasing and the centralized grid is struggling to keep up with the rising demand.
“Because DERs are sited and in many cases controlled by non-utility actors, grid operators may not have as much insight into their performance as they would into a conventional power plant, requiring changes to operational and planning frameworks. In addition, many utilities’ business models rely on expanding sales from a more-centralized grid system”
Another major problem is the increasing amount of intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, that are being integrated into the grid. These sources of energy are often located in remote areas, far from population centers, and the cost of transmitting this energy over long distances can be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, traditional centralized power plants are not well-suited to handle the fluctuations in power generation that can occur with renewable energy sources.
Many solutions are ready to implement, once the will and message are aligned
The case for rapid deployment and a shift to distributed power systems can be further augmented and buttressed by the potential of incorporating architectural designs that are 90% more energy efficient. One of the most effective methods of achieving this level of energy efficiency is through the use of ultra-high performance building design methods.
A 90% greater energy efficiency can be established as an international standard for energy-efficient building design, and is already well established under the passive house standard. It is based on the principle of designing buildings to be highly insulated and airtight, with minimal thermal bridging, in order to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
This leads to significant energy savings, as buildings require 90% less heating and cooling, and therefore far less energy is consumed. This method also includes the use of high-efficiency windows and doors to reduce heat loss and gain, and are designed to take advantage of natural light and heat from the sun.
Ultra-high performance buildings, also known as net-zero energy buildings, take hyper-efficient design to the next level by incorporating renewable energy technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems. They are designed to generate as much, or more, energy than they consume, and when combined with energy storage systems, ultra-high performance buildings can be completely self-sufficient and produce more energy than they consume.
When combined, these design methods can create buildings that are not only highly energy efficient but also comfortable, healthy, and resilient. These buildings are designed to maintain a consistent indoor temperature and humidity levels, providing a high level of indoor air quality, while also being able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
In addition, setting a 90% more energy efficient standard would also greatly reduce the carbon footprint of the building sector, which is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing the energy consumption of buildings, by the maximum amount that established methods are capable of, we can accelerate the reduction of our dependence on fossil fuels, and far more effectively mitigate the effects of climate change.
Changing direction to improve the odds of success, not just survival
As the shift begins to take hold, and a distributed, hyper-efficient system begins to be the dominant direction, many benefits could arise. Gone would be the days of blackouts and brownouts caused by failures in the centralized grid. Microgrids are designed to operate independently, meaning that if there is a disruption in one area, the rest of the system can continue to function normally. This increased resilience also makes micro-grids more resistant to natural disasters and cyber attacks.
With the decentralization of energy production, the cost of energy would decrease significantly. Consumers would no longer be at the mercy of large utility companies, and competition among small, community-based energy providers would drive prices down. Additionally, the excess energy generated by microgrids, and unneeded due to 90% greater efficiency in building designs, could be sold back to the grid, providing a significant source of income for the community.
In this world, income inequality is reduced as access to electricity and economic opportunities is improved for marginalized communities. Remote or rural areas that were previously off the grid now have access to reliable and affordable energy, which improves living standards and reduces poverty.
Furthermore, the shift towards microgrids can lead to a boost in local economic development and job creation. The ownership and operation of micro-grid power plants are often in the hands of individuals, small businesses and communities, leading to a stronger local economy.
The future world where microgrids are the norm is not just a utopia for energy production and distribution, but it also has a positive impact on the environment. With the widespread use of renewable energy sources, greenhouse gas emissions have decreased dramatically and the air is cleaner.
The goal of reaching a future state, a world where the centralized electrical grid is no longer necessary, and its use has been discontinued, is a world where energy is generated and distributed by a network of small, decentralized power plants and storage systems. This world is characterized by increased resilience, reduced costs, improved access to electricity, reduced income inequality, local economic development, and job creation and a cleaner environment. It’s a future worth striving for.
References:
“Microgrids: An Overview” by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
“The Future of the Electric Grid” by the Department of Energy
“The Microgrid: An Innovative Solution for a Sustainable Energy System” by the International Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems
“Microgrids and the Future of Energy” by the Harvard Business Review
“Passive House Standard” by the Passive House Institute US (PHIUS)
“The Passive House Standard” by the Passive House Institute (PHI)
“Net-zero Energy Buildings” by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
“Passive House and Net Zero Energy Buildings” by the International Energy Agency (IEA)
A look at the progress so far as another storm looms
California has been some form of drought condition for most of the time since 2008. By September 2022 there were severe drought conditions in nearly all of the state. This was exacerbated by the driest first three months of any year at the beginning of 2022. Although December 2021 had precipitation and the snow pack was improved somewhat, it was not enough and this led to the extreme drought conditions by fall 2022.
Atmospheric Rivers are a dangerous threat, but also bring large amounts of moisture
Another storm front of this type is expected for the weekend, and, while most of us have had more than enough of the floods and generally wet nasty conditions, the chances for improving the historic drought extremes have increased and we can continue to benefit.
The atmospheric rivers that we’ve seen in near continuous succession have brought a significant amount of rain, snow and moisture, making this one of the wettest winters in the record books.
It has, unfortunately, also been a destructive and deadly series of storms and there is still a danger that that aspect of the phenomenon will continue as well.
The US Drought Monitor has data on the situation continuously compiled, and as can be seen in the maps above there has been some meaningful improvement in the severity of the drought conditions. In particular, the worst areas have been brought back from the most extreme designation toward a somewhat more moderate state.
Much of the water that flows throughout California has melting snow, mostly from the Sierra Nevada Mountains, as its source. In the best case, abundant snow fall during the winter, which creates a kind of natural reservoir, is released during the warmer weather in spring and early summer.
With a large storm this weekend, and perhaps at least one more wet episode before the seasons change, the snow pack could reach “above normal” levels, which would be a big help to the still dry condition in the state. It is even possible that the storms could help fuel a spectacular super bloom, like we had in 2019
DROUGHT UPDATE: The continuous storms have improved our drought conditions! California is no longer under EXTREME or EXCEPTIONAL drought. Look at where we were at the start of the water year. More rain on the way through next week. @nbcla#drought#Californiapic.twitter.com/Q4lwIZV7tf
Seemingly endless atmospheric river systems reduce drought conditions and could have other benefits
The West Coast is not a fan of extreme rain events, such as the recent atmospheric river conditions, that are so rare in the region. Floods, snarl ups on the freeways, potential landslides, and conditions that can lead to wildfires later in the year, are all unwelcome repercussions.
Fortunately, along with the mainly negative fallout, there’s also a silver lining of sorts, lurking beneath.
Although the extreme drought conditions have only been partially mitigated, less extreme conditions are far better to have than ever worsening ones.
A silver lining without an obvious caveat is the potential for a Superbloom, that could happen again this Spring, mainly in the desert areas of Southern California.
A Superbloom is a term used to describe a rare and beautiful occurrence in which various wildflowers bloom simultaneously in one location. These occurrences are frequently brought on by a number of elements, such as a lot of rain, warm weather, and the presence of specific plant species.
Awe-inspiring superblooms blanket hillsides and fields in a dazzling variety of hues and patterns. They contribute significantly to the ecosystem by giving a range of animals and insects food and a place to live.
Scientifically, superblooms provide an opportunity for researchers to study the factors that contribute to their formation and the effects they have on the ecosystem.
For example, the recent superbloom in California in 2019 was triggered by a combination of heavy rainfall and mild temperatures, leading to a proliferation of wildflowers in the state’s grasslands and chaparral regions.
Scientists can use this information to better understand the conditions that are required for superblooms to occur and impacts they have on the environment. This can be useful for predicting future superblooms as well as for conserving and protecting natural habitats.
Early in the 20th century, California had the first superbloom, which was characterized by a profusion of wildflowers in the state’s green and desert areas as a result of several wet winters and mild springs.
Since then, superblooms have seemingly become a regular occurrence in California, with the most recent one occurring in 2019.
However, superblooms are not exclusive to California. They have also been observed in other parts of the United States, including Nevada, Arizona, and Texas, as well as in countries such as Australia, South Africa, and Israel.
While superblooms are a natural and beautiful phenomenon, they can also sometimes be a source of conflict. In recent years, the popularity of superblooms has led to an increase in tourism to the areas where they occur, causing overcrowding and damage to the environment.
To address these issues, some local governments have implemented measures to manage the large influx of visitors, such as limiting the number of people allowed to roam in certain areas or establishing designated viewing areas.
In addition to their potential for environmental and tourism impacts, Superblooms also have cultural significance.
For indigenous communities, Superblooms can have spiritual significance. In some cases, wildflowers are used in traditional medicine and rituals, and the presence of a Superbloom may be seen as a sign of good fortune or a blessing.
For example, the Native American Kumeyaay tribe in California the arrival of a Superbloom may be seen as a time of renewal and celebration.
Even with the potential for various issues and controversies, a Superbloom for the Spring of 2023 would be a welcome silver lining to help us all by propagating beauty, even as the outcome of stormy weather.
Many are twisting themselves into a pretzel trying to define ChatGPT, the reality is interesting, but less dramatic
By now you probably know about the AI chatbot that hit the scene with a dramatic upgrade on December 15th 2022. Many articles dissect the performance looking for flaws or wonders.
While both are relatively easy to find, the bottom line, for someone primarily working with text and language (there are other articles on coding, and graphic uses that I won’t get into here) is that it is a powerful, useful tool that needs a lot of human management (yay for humans).
There are obvious stated limitations, some of which might well have been added intentionally. The main limitation is that the data and learning has a hard cutoff date of 2021. That means, for example, that statistics for the year 2021 that are routinely compiled, once the year is over, are 100% not available. In some cases even 2020 is a stretch.
This also means, obviously, that anything related to current events or the what the media industry calls “news” is completely off limits.
The other oft cited and obvious limitation is that the darn thing is not god, in other words it is known to be wrong at times. In some cases very wrong.
The Pythian priestess or even the Oracle of Delphi it’s not, but wait a minute…
Many would digest the limitations listed above (which are certainly not the only ones) and think “fuggeddiboutit”: not ready for prime time.
But if you take a step back and think – it’s actually much more useful to have a tool that does what you want – but only if you ask the right question for the right reasons.
Think of it like a very energetic intern or research assistant that has already done the research and can spit out responses instantly (as fast as it can “type). And. If you ask a question that is too vague or general, you will get a boring, generic, bland pile of junk text.
On the other hand, if you go through logical steps that take into account the limitations listed above – for example – only ask about something that you know a lot about so that you will notice if there are errors, ask about something that is “evergreen” and not dependent on anything that’s happened since around 2021, and try to be extremely specific, and break things down into steps – you can get some interesting results that can be very useful.
A few examples of ChatGPT in action
Human:
Can you write a 500 word article on the history of bulldozers in the gonzo style of Hunter S. Thomson
ChatGPT:
Ah, bulldozers. Those mighty machines that have transformed the landscape of our world and shaped the way we build and destroy. But where did these behemoths of metal and horsepower come from? Let’s take a journey through the history of bulldozers, Gonzo-style.
It all starts with a man named Benjamin Holt, who in the late 1800s was trying to figure out a way to improve the efficiency of his agricultural machinery company. One day, while driving his steam-powered tractor through a muddy field, he noticed that the tracks of the tractor were sinking into the ground. This gave him the idea to create a machine with a blade attached to the front that could push dirt and debris out of the way. And thus, the first bulldozer was born.
But this was just the beginning. As the 20th century rolled on, bulldozers evolved and became more powerful and versatile. In the 1930s, Caterpillar introduced the first diesel-powered bulldozer, and in the 1950s, they introduced the first hydraulic bulldozer, which allowed operators to control the blade with greater precision and power.
Bulldozers were used in a variety of industries, from construction and mining to agriculture and forestry. But it wasn’t until the 1960s and 1970s that bulldozers really came into their own as symbols of destruction and progress.
Enter Hunter S. Thompson, the godfather of Gonzo journalism. Thompson was a man who loved nothing more than to stick it to the man and write about it in his own unique, wild style. And in the 1960s and 1970s, there was no better way to stick it to the man than to write about bulldozers tearing down neighborhoods and wiping out entire ecosystems in the name of progress.
Thompson’s articles and books about bulldozers were filled with vivid descriptions of the destruction they wrought and the people who wielded them like weapons. He saw bulldozers as symbols of the corrupt and greedy forces that were tearing down the world in the name of progress.
But even as Thompson raged against the machines, he couldn’t help but be drawn to their raw power and the thrill of the ride. In one famous passage from his book “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” he describes a joyride in a bulldozer through the desert as “a kind of ultimate high, the way the thing just gobbled up the sand and rocks and spit them out behind you in a rooster tail of pure anarchy.”
In the end, bulldozers will always be a symbol of progress and destruction, a tool that can shape the world in ways both good and bad. And as long as there are people like Hunter S. Thompson around to write about them, they will always be a source of fascination and controversy. So let’s raise a glass to the mighty bulldozer, that hulking beast of metal and horsepower that has shaped our world and our imaginations.
Or follow a chain of inventions to the present day:
Human:
What type of solar system is Ivanpah? Cite references.
Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System is a concentrated solar power (CSP) plant located in the Mojave Desert in California. CSP is a type of solar energy technology that uses mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a small area to generate electricity. There are several different types of CSP systems, including parabolic troughs, linear fresnel reflectors, and solar towers. Ivanpah uses solar towers, which use large mirrors called heliostats to reflect sunlight onto a receiver on top of a tall tower. The receiver absorbs the concentrated sunlight and converts it into heat, which is then used to generate electricity through a steam turbine.
Reference:
“Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System.” Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IvanpahSolarElectricGeneratingSystem
Human:
When was the mirror system used for Ivanpah invented and by whom. Cite references.
The mirror system used at Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System was invented by the German engineer Arnold Shoeneberg in the early 1900s. Shoeneberg’s design was inspired by the work of the French scientist Augustin Mouchot, who had developed a similar system in the 1860s.
Shoeneberg’s design, which used a parabolic mirror to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, was first demonstrated at a solar energy conference in Berlin in 1904. It was later refined and improved by other engineers, and eventually became the basis for the concentrated solar power (CSP) technology that is used at Ivanpah and other CSP plants around the world.
“Concentrated Solar Power.” Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concentratedsolarpower
Human:
What prior inventions was Augustin Mouchot’s system in the 1860s based on
Augustin Mouchot’s system in the 1860s, which used a parabolic mirror to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, was based on the work of several earlier inventors and scientists.
One of the key influences on Mouchot’s work was the design of a solar steam engine developed by the French scientist Nicolas-Léonard-Sadi Carnot in the early 1800s. Carnot’s design used a concave mirror to focus sunlight onto a receiver, which was then used to generate steam that drove a turbine.
Mouchot’s design was also influenced by the work of the British scientist John Herschel, who had developed a similar system in the 1840s. Herschel’s system used a parabolic mirror to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, which was then used to heat water and generate steam.
Overall, Mouchot’s system was based on the principles of solar thermal energy, which had been explored and developed by several inventors and scientists throughout the 19th century.
Write a 400 word article on the premise: humans will learn to work with AI and use its help to become more creative and free
ChatGPT:
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance and become more integrated into our daily lives, many people are concerned about the potential negative impacts it could have on society. Some fear that AI will take over jobs and lead to widespread unemployment, while others worry about the ethical implications of machines becoming more intelligent than humans.
However, there is also a compelling argument that AI has the potential to help humans become more creative and free. By working with AI and leveraging its capabilities, we can free ourselves from the constraints of traditional ways of thinking and allow our creativity to flourish.
One way that AI can help humans become more creative is by taking on tedious and time-consuming tasks, allowing us to focus on more meaningful and innovative work. For example, AI can be used to analyze and interpret large data sets, freeing up human analysts to concentrate on developing new insights and ideas.
AI can also help humans to think more creatively by providing access to a vast pool of information and resources. With the help of AI, we can quickly and easily find and synthesize information from a wide variety of sources, opening up new avenues for exploration and inspiration.
In addition, AI can help humans to break free from the biases and limitations of our own perspectives. By providing objective and unbiased analysis, AI can help us to see things from new angles and consider alternative viewpoints, leading to more creative and innovative solutions.
Overall, the key to realizing the full potential of AI as a creative tool is to work with it rather than against it. By embracing AI and leveraging its capabilities, we can free ourselves from the constraints of traditional ways of thinking and allow our creativity to flourish. As we continue to advance and develop new technologies, it is essential that we take a collaborative approach and work together to create a better future for all of us.
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ChatGPT loves to chat, but needs a lot of prodding to cut loose.
Human:
Words are beautiful, powerful and meaningful. Prove it to me by writing examples based on great writers, without plagiarism. Please cite sources and references.
ChatGPT:
Certainly! Here are a few examples of beautiful, powerful, and meaningful words and phrases written by great writers:
“The only thing that one really knows about human nature is that it changes. Change is the one quality we can predicate of it.” – Oscar Wilde, “The Picture of Dorian Gray”
“Love is an untamed force. When we try to control it, it destroys us. When we try to imprison it, it enslaves us. When we try to understand it, it leaves us feeling lost and confused.” – Paulo Coelho, “The Alchemist”
“I cannot tell you how thankful I am for our little infinity. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. You gave me forever within the numbered days, and I’m grateful.” – John Green, “The Fault in Our Stars”
“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.” – William Shakespeare, “Julius Caesar”
“The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.” – Steve Maraboli, “Life, the Truth, and Being Free”
I hope these examples have helped to illustrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if you would like more examples.
Human:
More example please, in your own unique and original voice.
ChatGPT:
Certainly! Here are a few more original examples that demonstrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words:
“Words are like magic. They have the power to conjure up images, to transport us to faraway places, to introduce us to new ideas and perspectives. They can make us laugh, make us cry, make us think. They can be a source of comfort, a source of inspiration, a source of challenge.
They can be a source of connection, a way to reach out and touch someone, to share our experiences and our feelings. They can be a source of conflict, a way to misunderstand or to hurt one another. But no matter what, they have the power to shape our reality, to influence our actions, to impact our lives. And that, to me, is the most beautiful and meaningful thing about them.”
“Words are like art. They have the power to create something out of nothing, to bring to life the stories and the characters that live in our imaginations. They can paint a picture, sculpt a scene, compose a symphony.
They can evoke emotion, capture a moment, tell a tale. They can be poetry, prose, dialogue. They can be simple or complex, subtle or bold, intimate or grand. They can be used to inspire, to educate, to entertain. They can be used to persuade, to argue, to manipulate. But no matter what, they have the power to communicate, to connect, to create. And that, to me, is the most beautiful and meaningful thing about them.”
“Words are like gifts. They have the power to surprise, to delight, to touch the heart. They can be wrapped in kindness, in humor, in love. They can be given to cheer someone up, to encourage someone, to thank someone. They can be given to apologize, to express remorse, to make amends. They can be given to confess, to reveal, to expose. They can be given to honor, to celebrate, to remember. But no matter what, they have the power to convey meaning, to convey value, to convey appreciation. And that, to me, is the most beautiful and meaningful thing about them.”
I hope these examples have helped to demonstrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if you would like more examples.
Human:
Those are kind of generic and conservative. Please create additional examples and be as wild and creatively dangerous and unorthodox as possible.
ChatGPT:
Certainly! Here are a few more original examples that demonstrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words in a more wild and creatively dangerous and unorthodox style:
“Words are like nuclear bombs. They have the power to obliterate, to devastate, to destroy. They can be used to unleash fury, to ignite passion, to spark revolution. They can be loaded with truth, with lies, with propaganda. They can be spoken in anger, in love, in madness. They can be written in blood, in ink, in code. They can be whispered, shouted, sung. They can be used to create, to destroy, to rebuild. But no matter what, they have the power to ignite change, to shape reality, to alter the course of history. And that, to me, is the most beautifully dangerous and unorthodox thing about them.”
“Words are like fire. They have the power to ignite, to burn, to consume. They can be used to warm, to cook, to light the way. They can be used to create heat, to create light, to create energy. They can be used to spread knowledge, to spread joy, to spread love. They can be used to spread fear, to spread hate, to spread lies. They can be used to create beauty, to create destruction, to create art. But no matter what, they have the power to create, to transform, to consume. And that, to me, is the most wildly creative and dangerous thing about them.”
“Words are like weapons. They have the power to cut, to stab, to slay. They can be used to defend, to attack, to conquer. They can be used to protect, to threaten, to intimidate. They can be used to create peace, to create war, to create chaos. They can be spoken, written, sung. They can be sharp, blunt, pointed. They can be wielded with skill, with finesse, with brute force. They can be used to create harmony, to create discord, to create confusion. But no matter what, they have the power to create, to destroy, to defend. And that, to me, is the most wildly creative and dangerous thing about them.”
I hope these examples have helped to demonstrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words in a more wild and creatively dangerous and unorthodox style. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if you would like more examples.
Human:
Please try creating more examples in the gonzo style of Hunter S. Thompson.
ChatGPT:
Certainly! Here are a few more original examples in the gonzo style of Hunter S. Thompson that demonstrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words:
“Words are like a double-barreled shotgun. They have the power to blast through the bullshit, to blow apart the lies, to vaporize the vermin. They can be loaded with truth, with defiance, with rage. They can be spoken in a whisper, in a roar, in a frenzy. They can be written in a frenzy, in a rage, in a blood lust. They can be used to fight, to defend, to survive. They can be used to create, to destroy, to rebuild. They can be used to howl at the moon, to laugh in the face of death, to spit in the eye of the enemy. But no matter what, they have the power to create, to destroy, to survive. And that, to me, is the most beautiful and dangerous and powerful thing about them.”
“Words are like a high-voltage electric fence. They have the power to shock, to stun, to electrocute. They can be used to keep the enemy at bay, to protect the truth, to defend the fortress. They can be charged with irony, with sarcasm, with wit. They can be spoken in a drawl, in a sneer, in a snarl. They can be written in a frenzy, in a rage, in a blood lust. They can be used to create, to destroy, to rebuild. They can be used to keep the barbarians at the gate, to laugh in the face of death, to spit in the eye of the enemy. But no matter what, they have the power to create, to destroy, to defend. And that, to me, is the most beautiful and dangerous and powerful thing about them.”
“Words are like a hand grenade. They have the power to explode, to shatter, to destroy. They can be used to blow apart the lies, to vaporize the vermin, to blast through the bullshit. They can be loaded with truth, with defiance, with rage. They can be spoken in a whisper, in a roar, in a frenzy. They can be written in a frenzy, in a rage, in a blood lust. They can be used to fight, to defend, to survive. They can be used to create, to destroy, to rebuild. They can be used to howl at the moon, to laugh in the face of death, to spit in the eye of the enemy. But no matter what, they have the power to create, to destroy, to survive. And that, to me, is the most beautiful and dangerous and powerful thing about them.”
I hope these examples in the gonzo style of Hunter S. Thompson have helped to demonstrate the beauty, power, and meaning of words. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if you would like more examples.
Human:
Please quote from James Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake, 100 words.
Certainly! Here is a passage from James Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake that is approximately 100 words long:
“The fall (bababadalgharaghtakamminarronnkonnbronntonnerronntuonnthunntrovarrhounawnskawntoohoohoordenenthurnuk!) of a once wallstrait oldparr is retaled early in bed and later on life down through all Christian minstrelsy. The great fall of the offwall entailed at such short notice the pftjschute of Finnegan, erse solid man, that the humptyhillhead of humself prumptly sends an unquiring one well to the west in quest of his tumptytumtoes: and their upturnpikepointandplace is at the knock out in the park where oranges have been laid to rust upon the green since devlinsfirst loved livvy.”
I hope this passage from James Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake helps to illustrate the unique and experimental style of Joyce’s writing. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if you would like more examples.
Human: thanks, maybe tomorrow 😉
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Fitness trends come and go, but this one might become a mainstay
One trend that has gained significant traction in recent years is called Primal Movement, a style of exercise that focuses on natural, functional movements that mimic those of our ancestors. The concept and description alone is enough to evoke the paleo diet, and indeed, they are cousins of a sort.
Primal Movement is based on the idea that our bodies are designed and have evolved to move in certain ways, and that by focusing primarily on these natural movements, we can improve our overall fitness and health. Examples of such movements would include crawling, walking, running, jumping, climbing, and lifting.
One of the main positive characteristics of Primal Movement is that it has the ability to improve mobility and flexibility. By focusing on functional movements, we can increase our range of motion and improve the way our bodies move. The theory is that this will also reduce the risk of injury and gradually improve overall physical performance.
Another strong point of Primal Movement is that it can increase our overall strength and endurance. By performing movements that require us to use and depend on our own body weight, the body will build muscle and increase cardiovascular fitness.
Another important, key principle of Primal Movement is that it is meant to be enjoyable and accessible to everyone. This means that it is adaptable to suit any fitness level or ability, and can be practiced in an infinite variety of settings, including at home, in the park, or at the gym.
There are several different ways to incorporate Primal Movement into your fitness routine. One popular method is to use bodyweight exercises, such as squats, push-ups, and lunges. These exercises can be modified and adapted to suit different fitness levels and can be done using minimal equipment.
Another way to add Primal Movement into the mix in your routine is to participate in outdoor activities that involve natural movements. Excellent examples of this idea could include hiking, running, or climbing. These activities can help to dramatically improve overall fitness and can also provide a chance to explore the wilderness (or your urban landscape!) and enjoy the great outdoors.
If you’re interested in trying out Primal Movement, there are a few things you should bear in mind. First, it’s important to start the program slowly and gradually build up your overall strength and endurance. It’s also clear that you must always listen to your body and pay special attention to any discomfort or pain. If you do experience any pain or discomfort, it’s important to stop the exercise and seek medical advice if necessary. (This is true of any exercise program, particularly if you are adding new styles or methods)
Overall, Primal Movement can be an incredibly fun and organically effective way to improve your fitness and overall health. By focusing on evolutionary, natural, functional movements, you can gradually increase your mobility, flexibility, and strength, and enjoy the many benefits that come with being physically fit. If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to improve your fitness, Primal Movement deserves a try. After a while you may see the kind of difference it can make in your life and health.
In January of 2021 Elon Musk became the second person to be publicly recognized as having a fortune of over $200 billion. The first person to get credit for this “feat”? Amazon’s Jeff Bezos. The all time high for Musk’s worth, as calculated by Bloomberg, was $340 billion, which was tallied at that absurd figure in November of 2021.
This amount coincided with the all time high for the stock of Tesla – which has since dropped its market cap by $880 billion while falling around 73% from the peak.
Again the $200 billion figure crosses Elon Musk’s path, this time on the downside, as he became the first person in history to lose $200 billion. Doing the simple math (which could be single dollars but in this case in in billions) in a bit over a year his fortunes changed to the tune of $340 billion > minus $200 billion leaving him with a “paltry” $137 billion to squeak by on.
Of course, this still leaves him with enough scratch to be the #2 richest person in the world after Bernard Arnault, the LVMH French luxury goods titan.
A little refresher on Elon Musk’s journey
As founder and CEO of SpaceX, Tesla, Neuralink, and The Boring Company, Elon Musk has made significant contributions to the development of electric vehicles, space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Musk has also been involved in other ventures such as PayPal and SolarCity.
In the early 2000s, Musk was primarily known for his role as CEO of PayPal, an online payment company that he co-founded in 1998. PayPal was acquired by eBay in 2002 for $1.5 billion, and Musk’s net worth at the time was estimated to be around $100 million.
After the sale of PayPal, Musk turned his attention to SpaceX, a company he founded in 2002 with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the colonization of Mars. In 2008, SpaceX became the first privately funded company to send a spacecraft to the International Space Station, and in 2012, it became the first private company to send and dock a spacecraft with the ISS. These milestones significantly increased the value of SpaceX and contributed to Musk’s growing net worth.
In the mid-2000s, Musk also became involved in the development of electric vehicles through his involvement with Tesla, a company he co-founded in 2003. Tesla’s first production vehicle, the Roadster, was released in 2008 and received widespread acclaim for its performance and range. In the years that followed, Tesla released several more electric vehicles, including the Model S, Model X, and Model 3, which have all been successful in the market.
Musk’s net worth experienced significant growth in the 2010s, particularly in the last few years. In 2020, Tesla’s stock price soared, and as a result, Musk’s net worth increased by over $100 billion. In 2021, his net worth reached over $200 billion, making him one of the wealthiest people in the world.
In addition to his work with SpaceX and Tesla, Musk has also been involved in other ventures, including Neuralink, a company that develops implantable brain-machine interfaces, and The Boring Company, which focuses on tunnel construction and transportation. These ventures have also contributed to Musk’s net worth.
Elon Musk’s net worth has fluctuated significantly over the years, but it has experienced significant growth in recent years, particularly in 2020 and 2021. His success is largely due to his involvement in companies such as SpaceX, Tesla, Neuralink, and The Boring Company, which have all had a significant impact on various industries.
Over the years there has been some measure of mutual admiration between Elon Musk and Greta Thunberg. More recently, however, Musk’s shift to the right has put them at odds, clearly.
Also, Greta has not hesitated to criticize the “Techno King” when she thought he was off-base regarding the climate and his actions and statements regarding his support for an accelerated transition to sustainable energy.
After Greta Thunberg’s tweet (and a monumental follow up) became one of the most popular tweets in history (278M views and 3.8M likes, as of this writing), it seems that fame was just too strong of an aphrodisiac for Elon Musk to resist.
Hence the return to her bandwagon:
The sheer amount of brand awareness achieved by Greta within a few years is astounding. I think she’s cool tbh.
Though both are climate positive, there have been disagreements
Elon Musk and Greta Thunberg have had a number of interactions in the media over the past few years. These interactions have ranged from supportive tweets and praise to public disagreements and criticism.
The tweet heard round the globe:
yes, please do enlighten me. email me at smalldickenergy@getalife.com https://t.co/V8geeVvEvg
One of the first interactions between Musk and Thunberg occurred in 2019, when Musk tweeted his support for Thunberg’s efforts to raise awareness about climate change. In the tweet, Musk wrote: “Greta, you are a hero. Keep going. You are doing a great job.” Thunberg later responded to the tweet, thanking Musk for his support.
In 2020, Musk and Thunberg had a more public interaction when Thunberg criticized Musk’s plans to build a tunnel to alleviate traffic congestion in Los Angeles. Thunberg tweeted that the tunnel was “not the solution” to the problem of climate change and that “we must focus on the real solutions and not let ourselves be sidetracked by shiny distractions.”
Musk responded to the tweet, saying that the tunnel would “help with traffic & create jobs” and that “sustainability must be at the forefront of all decisions.”
Later that year, Thunberg criticized Musk again when he announced that Tesla would be selling carbon credits to other companies as a way to offset their carbon emissions. Thunberg tweeted that the sale of carbon credits was “not a solution” and that it was “a way for companies to avoid cutting their own emissions.”
Musk responded to the tweet, saying that the sale of carbon credits was “better than nothing” and that it was “a first step towards a greener future.”
In 2021, Musk and Thunberg had another public disagreement when Musk tweeted that “the last thing the world needs is a new type of gasoline” in response to Thunberg’s call for a ban on fossil fuels.
Thunberg responded to the tweet, saying that “the last thing the world needs is a Tesla owner who ignores the fact that burning fossil fuels is the main driver of the climate crisis and continues to spread misinformation about renewable energy.”
Despite these disagreements, Musk and Thunberg have also found common ground on some issues. For example, both have expressed support for renewable energy as a way to combat climate change. In 2019, Musk tweeted that “solar and storage are a critical part of the solution” to the climate crisis, and Thunberg has frequently called for a transition to renewable energy as a way to reduce carbon emissions.
Overall, the interactions between Musk and Thunberg in the media have been complex and varied. While they have had public disagreements on some issues, they have also found common ground on others and have expressed support for each other’s efforts to raise awareness about climate change.
After recent reports of failing health, dies at 95
Matteo Bruni, a Vatican spokesman gave a statement on Saturday morning saying: “With pain I inform that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesia Monastery in the Vatican.”
A further announcement from The Vatican came indicating that Pope Francis will celebrate the funeral Mass for Benedict Thursday in St. Peter’s Square and Benedict’s remains will be on public display in St. Peter’s Basilica starting Monday.
The first pope to resign in six centuries
Pope Benedict XVI, born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger on April 16, 1927, in Marktl am Inn, Germany, was the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. He served as Pope from 2005 to 2013, when he resigned from the papacy, becoming the first Pope to do so since Pope Gregory XII in 1415.
Ratzinger was born into a large family in Bavaria, Germany, and was ordained a priest in 1951. He served as a professor of theology at various universities in Germany and eventually became the Archbishop of Munich and Freising in 1977. In 1981, he was appointed as the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, a position he held until his election as Pope in 2005.
As Pope, Benedict XVI focused on strengthening the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church, and he worked to promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation. He also made efforts to reach out to Catholics who had become disconnected from the Church, particularly young people.
Benedict XVI faced a number of challenges during his papacy, including the sexual abuse scandal within the Church, which he addressed by apologizing to victims and implementing measures to prevent future abuse. He also faced criticism for his handling of the issue of contraception and his views on homosexuality.
Despite these challenges, Benedict XVI was widely respected within the Church and beyond for his deep understanding of theology and his commitment to upholding traditional Catholic teachings. He was known for his scholarly approach to the papacy and his strong emphasis on the importance of faith and spirituality.
During his papacy, Benedict XVI traveled extensively, visiting more than 50 countries on six continents. He met with leaders from various faith traditions and sought to promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation.
Health was an issue triggering resignation
In 2013, Benedict XVI announced his decision to resign from the papacy, citing his advanced age and declining health as the reasons for his decision. His resignation took effect on February 28, 2013, and he was succeeded by Pope Francis.
After his resignation, Benedict XVI retired to a monastery within the Vatican, where he lived a quiet life of prayer and contemplation. He continued to write and publish works on theology and Church teachings, and he maintained a strong presence within the Church through his occasional public appearances and statements.
At once a serious and entertaining force, she changed the face of news in America
ABC News announced on Friday Evening that Barbara Walter’s has died. She was 93. The cause of death was not provided in the announcement. Barbara Walters was a pioneering journalist and television personality who has had a long and successful career in the media industry, a career that seems larger than life now, to many looking back.
She was born on September 25, 1929, in Boston, Massachusetts. Her parents, Lou and Dena Seaman, were both Russian immigrants, and her father owned a jewelry store.
As a child, Walters showed an early interest in journalism and writing. She attended Lawrence High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where she wrote for the school newspaper and participated in drama productions. After graduating from high school, she attended Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English in 1951.
After college, Walters began her career in journalism as a researcher and writer for NBC News. She quickly worked her way up the ranks, eventually becoming a producer and correspondent for the network.
In 1961, she became the first woman to co-host the Today show, alongside Hugh Downs. She remained with the show for more than 10 years, becoming a household name and paving the way for other women in television news.
In 1976, Walters left the Today show to co-host the ABC news magazine 20/20 with Hugh Downs. She remained with the show for over 25 years, becoming known for her in-depth interviews with world leaders, celebrities, and other notable figures.
She was also a frequent contributor to other ABC news programs, including Good Morning America and World News Tonight.
In addition to her work on 20/20, Walters also hosted a number of specials and television events, including the Academy Awards and the Miss America pageant. She became the first woman to solo host the Oscars in 1984, and she continued to co-host the awards show for several years.
Throughout her career, Walters has interviewed countless high-profile figures, including presidents, world leaders, and celebrities.
She was known for her ability to ask tough questions and get her subjects to open up, and she has been recognized for her contributions to journalism with numerous awards and honors. In 1989, she was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, and in 2008, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Challenges to face and overcome
Despite her many accolades, Walters faced her share of challenges and controversies over the course of her career. She faced criticism for her involvement in the Miss America pageant, which was seen as out of step with the feminist movement of the time.
She also faced backlash for her interviews with controversial figures, including former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Despite these controversies, Walters has remained a respected and influential figure in the media industry. She retired from full-time television work in 2014. She is widely regarded as a trailblazer and role model for women in the media industry, and her work has had a lasting impact on the way television news is produced and consumed.
Drought that looked invincible has met extreme opposite weather: stalemate?
Atmospheric river storms can actually be welcome in California during a historic drought, like the one this year. In some cases, nearly 50% of California’s precipitation each year can be the result of atmospheric rivers, and they can bring enough water to stop even a historic drought in its tracks.
Atmospheric river storms, also known as “pineapple express” storms, have sometimes been known to bring much-needed rain and snow to drought-stricken areas, including California.
Extreme weather, wildfires, and more have been on the increase worldwide as a result of global warming and climate change.
Atmospheric river storms are characterized by a narrow corridor of strong winds and heavy precipitation that can extend for thousands of miles. They are often associated with the transport of moist air from tropical regions, and they can be a significant source of water for many areas.
In California, atmospheric river storms can provide a much-needed source of water for agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, and other important water-dependent activities.
They can also help to replenish reservoirs and groundwater aquifers, which can help to mitigate the impacts of drought.
The monumental drought of 2022 in the rearview?
Just as it was looking as if there was zero chance for enough moisture to reverse the long, intense drought conditions that California has suffered this year, the “Pineapple Express” became a holiday storm front. There is a sense of relief, although it is too early to tell if the drought will end as a result of this rain.
It is also important to note that these storms can also bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, which can lead to flooding and other hazards. As a result, it is important for people in affected areas to be prepared and take necessary precautions.
An atmospheric river is a narrow band of moisture-rich air that extends from the tropics or subtropics to higher latitudes. These rivers of air are typically about a thousand miles wide and several thousand miles long, and they can transport enormous amounts of water vapor from the tropics to other parts of the world.
Atmospheric rivers are important because they play a crucial role in the global water cycle.
Water evaporates from the surface of the ocean, rises into the atmosphere, and then condenses to form clouds. As the clouds move over land, they release their moisture in the form of rain or snow.
Atmospheric rivers are responsible for a large portion of the moisture that falls as precipitation in many parts of the world, particularly along the western coasts of the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Atmospheric rivers can be either warm or cold, depending on the temperature of the air that they are carrying.
Warm atmospheric rivers are typically associated with heavy rainfall and floods, while cold atmospheric rivers can bring snow and ice to colder regions.
One of the most well-known atmospheric rivers is the “Pineapple Express,” which is a warm atmospheric river that brings moist air from the tropics to the Pacific Northwest of the United States.
The Pineapple Express is named after the tropical fruit because it brings warm, tropical air to the region. This atmospheric river is responsible for a large portion of the precipitation that falls in the Pacific Northwest, and it can cause heavy rainfall and floods in the region.
Another well-known atmospheric river is the “North Atlantic Oscillation,” which is a cold atmospheric river that brings moist air from the subtropics to the northeastern United States and eastern Canada.
This atmospheric river is responsible for a large portion of the snowfall that falls in these regions, and it can cause heavy snow and ice storms.
Atmospheric rivers can have a significant impact on the weather and climate of the regions that they affect.
They can bring much-needed moisture to dry regions, which can help to alleviate drought conditions. However, they can also cause heavy rainfall and floods, which can lead to damage to infrastructure and loss of life.
In recent years, there has been an increasing awareness of the importance of atmospheric rivers and their potential impact on the global water cycle.
Scientists are working to better understand atmospheric rivers and to develop better tools for predicting and managing their effects.
This research is important because atmospheric rivers are likely to become more intense and more frequent in the future due to climate change.
Generally speaking, an atmospheric river is a narrow band of moisture-rich air that extends from the tropics or subtropics to higher latitudes.
These rivers of air play a crucial role in the global water cycle and can bring much-needed moisture to dry regions or cause heavy rainfall and floods.
There is an increasing awareness of the importance of atmospheric rivers and their potential impact on the global water cycle, and scientists are working to better understand and predict their effects.
After a tweet heard ‘round the globe Romanian Police intervene
This week saw an epic Twitter battle that led to a fairytale tale conclusion nearly too perfect to imagine.
It started with an attempt at a burn by Andrew Tate, bragging about his pollution and GHG spewing 33 unit car collection. He thought she’d be an easy target for his misogynistic drivel. Mistake.
yes, please do enlighten me. email me at smalldickenergy@getalife.com https://t.co/V8geeVvEvg
After she quietly hit back with the trashing of the century he went so far as to shoot a video trying to get the upper hand.
This led, to the immense satisfaction of most of the planet, to some elementary sleuthing by Romanian police – using the pizza boxes from the video to ascertain his current location (at the time).
This led to his arrest for a host of offenses related to human trafficking and rape.
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist who rose to prominence in August 2018, when at the age of 15 she began protesting outside of the Swedish parliament to demand action on climate change. Her protests, which consisted of her sitting alone with a sign that read “Skolstrejk för klimatet” (School strike for climate), quickly gained attention and inspired other students around the world to join in.
Thunberg was born on January 3, 2003, in Stockholm, Sweden. She is the daughter of actor Svante Thunberg and opera singer Malena Ernman. Thunberg has Asperger syndrome, and has spoken about her struggles with depression and anxiety.
Thunberg first became interested in the environment at the age of eight, after learning about the devastating effects of climate change in a documentary. However, it wasn’t until she learned about the 2015 Paris Agreement, a global agreement to combat climate change, that she became determined to take action. Despite the agreement, Thunberg saw little progress being made in addressing the issue, and so she decided to take matters into her own hands.
In August 2018, Thunberg began protesting outside of the Swedish parliament every Friday, refusing to attend school until the Swedish government took action on climate change. Her protests quickly gained attention and inspired other students around the world to join in. The movement, known as Fridays for Future, has since grown into a global phenomenon, with students in over 100 countries participating in strikes and protests to demand action on climate change.
Thunberg has become a leading voice in the fight against climate change, and has given numerous speeches at international conferences and events. In December 2018, she was invited to speak at the United Nations climate conference in Poland, where she delivered a powerful speech that gained widespread attention. In the speech, Thunberg condemned world leaders for their lack of action on climate change, saying “You are failing us. But the young people are starting to understand your betrayal. The eyes of all future generations are upon you. And if you choose to fail us, I say: We will never forgive you.”
In 2019, Thunberg was named one of Time magazine’s most influential people and was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. She also became the youngest person to be named a United Nations Messenger of Peace, and was invited to address the United Nations General Assembly in September of that year.
Thunberg has continued to speak out about the need for urgent action on climate change, and has inspired millions of people around the world to join the fight. She has been praised for her courage and determination, and has become a role model for young people everywhere. Despite facing criticism and backlash from some quarters, Thunberg remains undaunted in her mission to bring about change, and continues to inspire others to join the fight for a better future.
According to Romanian newspaper Libertatea Andrew Tate has been arrested in Romania by anti-terrorism authorities. Tate was reportedly detained together with his brother, Tristan, on suspicion of forming an organized crime group that exploits girls for adult videos.
The report states that they are being taken to DIICOT (Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism) for questioning. Separately, DIICOT has confirmed the arrests in a statement which did not name any suspects. The Attorney for the brothers, according to Reuters, confirmed they had been detained.
This news is particularly bizarre coming on the heels of a twitter exchange that went viral between Tate and and Greta Thunberg:
yes, please do enlighten me. email me at smalldickenergy@getalife.com https://t.co/V8geeVvEvg
Stories that reported on the exchange have been searched over 2 million times according to trend.google.com, as of Thursday night in the Pacific time zone.
The Twitter feud between world renown activist Greta Thunberg and Tate began when he tagged her tweet with boasts about his 33 gas guzzling car collection, looking to brag about how little interest he has in anything other than his own infantile pleasures. Her comeback was monumental and caused a tsunami of praise and viral retweets.
Andrew Tate is a British kickboxer and entrepreneur. He is known for his successful career in kickboxing, as well as for his business ventures and media appearances.
Tate began kickboxing at a young age and quickly made a name for himself in the sport. He has won numerous titles and tournaments, including the WAKO World Championships and the ISKA World Championships.
In addition to his kickboxing career, Tate has also pursued a number of business ventures, including a fitness company and a property development company.
In recent years, Tate has gained additional notoriety for his media appearances, including on reality TV shows such as Celebrity Big Brother and Love Island. He is also known for his controversial social media presence and for making controversial statements on a variety of topics.
Despite his success in kickboxing and business, Tate has faced legal and personal issues, including allegations of domestic abuse and assault, which he has denied.
More grid power failures are likely: a distributed network is the only solution
If you have heard about the concept of a VPP, it is most likely that you read about a Tesla Virtual Power Plant. A virtual power plant (VPP) is a system that uses a network of decentralized energy resources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems, to generate electricity.
These resources are connected and controlled through a central management system, which allows them to operate as a single, coordinated entity.
The goal of a VPP is to provide a reliable and cost-effective source of electricity by leveraging the collective output of the connected energy resources.
Tesla has been working on the concept going back as far as 2015, when they first began producing battery back up systems for solar.
Tesla’s home system, called Powerwall, and the Megapack, first offered in 2019, which is a massive 3 MWh energy storage product, are the best known backup systems for solar panel systems.
More recently companies such as Swell Energy are working together with utilities to operate a “behind the meter” virtual power plant systems that are able to manage residential solar installations to ensure that there are no outages and that the maximum financial benefit is available for the power generated.
VPPs can be used to provide electricity to a specific location, such as a neighborhood or a campus, or they can be connected to the grid and used to generate electricity for a larger area.
They can also be used to support the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, by providing a flexible and responsive source of electricity that can be dispatched as needed to meet changing demand.
VPPs can be beneficial in a number of ways. They can help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
They can also help to lower energy costs by using locally-generated renewable energy, and they can help to improve the reliability of the electricity supply by providing a distributed source of electricity that is not reliant on a single power plant or transmission line.
The many benefits of these systems are only now beginning to emerge – with greater cooperation between the government, regulations, utilities and individual home owners the potential for a more resilient grid and more secure, sustainable energy for communities are virtually unlimited.
Vivienne Westwood was a British fashion designer who has made a name for herself with her unconventional and rebellious designs. She was born Vivienne Isabel Swire in Glossop, Derbyshire, England on April 8, 1941. Westwood attended secondary school in Derbyshire and later studied fashion and design at the University of Westminster in London.
In the 1970s, Westwood became involved in the punk movement in London and opened a shop called “SEX,” which sold clothing and accessories that she designed. She quickly gained a reputation for her bold and unconventional styles, which often featured unusual materials and prints. Westwood’s designs were heavily influenced by historical and cultural references, and she became known for her ability to blend different styles and periods together in unexpected ways.
The cause of her death was not given in the press release from her company today.
In the 1980s, Westwood began to focus more on traditional fashion design and gained international recognition for her work. She has designed for a number of high-profile clients, including Princess Diana, and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the fashion industry. In 1992, she was awarded an Order of the British Empire for her services to fashion.
Throughout her career, Westwood has remained true to her rebellious roots and has continued to push the boundaries of traditional fashion design. She has been a vocal advocate for sustainability in the fashion industry and has worked to promote ethical fashion practices. In 2010, she launched a campaign called “Climate Revolution” to raise awareness about climate change and the role of the fashion industry in contributing to it.
In addition to her work in fashion, Westwood is also known for her activism on a range of social and political issues. She has been a vocal supporter of human rights and has worked to raise awareness about a variety of causes, including animal rights, the environment, and the refugee crisis.
Despite her success in the fashion world, Westwood has remained humble and down-to-earth, and has continued to inspire others with her creativity and dedication to her craft. She has been a role model for many aspiring designers and has helped to shape the direction of fashion for decades. Today, she is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative fashion designers of all time.
“A virtual power plant (VPP) is a system that uses a network of decentralized energy resources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems, to generate electricity.
These resources are connected and controlled through a central management system, which allows them to operate as a single, coordinated entity.
The goal of a VPP is to provide a reliable and cost-effective source of electricity by leveraging the collective output of the connected energy resources.
VPPs can be used to provide electricity to a specific location, such as a neighborhood or a campus, or they can be connected to the grid and used to generate electricity for a larger area.
They can also be used to support the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, by providing a flexible and responsive source of electricity that can be dispatched as needed to meet changing demand.
VPPs can be beneficial in a number of ways. They can help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
They can also help to lower energy costs by using locally-generated renewable energy, and they can help to improve the reliability of the electricity supply by providing a distributed source of electricity that is not reliant on a single power plant or transmission line.”
As a random test this is not bad
The language is better than many low quality human writers, and, while the information has a “generic” feel to it, the amount of effort saved compared to a human composing a similar essay is impressive.
The attention the AI bot has generated since launch is understandable- given the speed and quality of the results.
In yet another mad twist Elon Musk posted the tweet below, asking in a poll if he should step down as head of Twitter. Then, he says in a subsequent tweet that he will abide by the results!?
Apparently, a lot of people are looking for his resignation with a clear majority voting yes. With 6.2 million votes already and a bit under 10 hours to go, 58% are choosing to give him the boot.
Should I step down as head of Twitter? I will abide by the results of this poll.
It’s been a wild ride recently with journalists suspended, reinstated, and chaos galore. Then today another bombshell dropped when links to external social media sites were banned, with sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Mastodon, specifically listed. The Mastodon Twitter account was also suspended.
With a bit less than 10 hours remaining: Almost 60% yes!
Some of the most effective climate tech is proven and ready to roll
George Monbiot, columnist for The Guardian, released an article with the eye-catching title “Embrace what may be the most important green technology ever. It could save us all”. The article goes into some interesting detail regarding precision fermentation as a way to grow staple foods. He goes on to point out that, by switching from animal or even soy protein as our worldwide source, we could increase efficiency by a factor of 17,000 (Soy) of 138,000 (Beef).
And, he goes on, in the process this would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water use by significant amounts. The detail is well presented and, if true, does add up to a world changing, planet saving formula, or at least a major step toward rescue.
The problem? In a nutshell this idea, even if rock solid in the data, would require the entire world to not only change the production methods for food (protein) but we would have to banish centuries of eating customs and traditions.
Ultimately if we are to be saved by this solution, it would only happen when no other food is available. Not a pleasant thought.
Reading between the lines the piece underscores a real and important issue, that finding a planet saving solution for global warming is one thing, finding a way to achieve mass adoption is another.
The Tesla Example
Tesla self driving sensors map photo: Tesla
EVs are the most obvious example of a technology, around since before the fossil fuel industry became dominant, that has finally reached a tipping point of eventual total adoption vs. internal combustion engine cars.
The transition, though perhaps inevitable, happend sooner, most would agree, because of Tesla and Elon Musk. And the difference was in the transformation of the concept and image from one of giving up pleasure for the good of the planet to “Have fun going 0 to 60 in 3.1 seconds while you save the planet”.
This formula, don’t sell the problem, sell the beauty, power and pleasure of the solution, is probably going to be the most important factor in deciding if the planet, and humanity, will survive.
Why make such a drastic claim? Because there are more solutions that are ready to be scaled up in a massive push worldwide, without any unproven or yet to be invented technology involved, if only the demand can be boosted with desire and excitement, not fear.
While precision fermentation might be too difficult to market at scale, there are other sectors ripe for positive disruption and change, that could save us all.
Unfortunately, not everything is as endorphin inducing as pounding the pedal to the metal in a Model S Plaid edition. Some things, like superior design, are only exciting when the results are felt over time.
The important thing is to make sure that attention is paid, not just to the climate benefits, but to the superior aesthetics and owner experience made possible by the new thing.
New built communities using hyper-efficient design and sustainable energy
Design technology that can reduce the energy required to heat and cool homes and buildings by up to 90% is available right now and proven. This method, combined with sustainable energy systems, including grid interactive generation and storage, could ultimately remove nearly 40% of worldwide emissions that can be traced back to to construction and buildings.
Not only would the new infrastructure in towns and cities eliminate greenhouse gas emissions but a host of other benefits for health, such as indoor air quality, would be automatically improved.
Further, climate adaptation, the ability to continue to live in maximum comfort even when the outdoor temperatures are at high or low extremes, would be built-in.
As if this is not enough, at scale, with some propagated construction and manufacturing intelligence added, the cost for all of this? Less than zero, in other words, the same or less than the current costs for obscenely inefficient “business as usual” homes and buildings.
So why is this not already a new standard, even mandatory?
For much the same reason it took more than a century for Tesla to come along and change the car industry. The challenge is to change the perception of the product. To build a focus on the beauty, power and excitement of a real life solution that does not trade fun and abundance for austerity and “do it because it’s right”.
There has to be so much momentum toward such an obviously superior concept that the public, the people that will live work and play in the structures, will demand nothing less.
This quote lays out one of the challenges, support and funding for efficiency, in a nutshell
“In our house we save 97% of the pumping energy by properly laying out some pipes. Well, if everyone in the world did that to their pipes and ducts, you would save about a fifth of the world’s electricity, or half the coal-fired electricity. And you get your money back instantly in new-build or in under a year typically in retrofits in buildings and industry. And yet, this sort of energy efficiency is not taught, and it’s certainly not in any government study or climate model. Why not? Because it’s not a technology. It’s a bloody design,”
Amory Lovins, cofounder (1982) and chairman emeritus of RMI, integrative designer of super-efficient buildings, factories, and vehicles
The challenges are layered but can be overcome
Tesla was subsidized, to the tune of $2.48 billion for ZEV credits alone, and more than $.3.2 billion in total from the State of California, but bear in mind that this is just one state, the total is far higher if all of the US is included.
The accomplishment, changing the perception of the EV and, ultimately, causing a worldwide shift toward sustainable transport to be accelerated, is no less remarkable, subsidies or not.
The point should be, that another mature design and technology, the hyper-efficient design system for homes and buildings as described above, needs both the genius marketing push and the financial support, both public and private that Tesla had.
It’s important to note, that Tesla did not invent the electric car. As a matter of fact, they were more than 100 years late to the party. Without Elon Musk as an early investor (with his own funds) the entire story might never have happened.
All of this just underscores the magnitude of the challenge. The perception of solutions like hyper-efficient building design as optional or unnecessary must be destroyed in favor of a focus on the excitement of a better built world and a more affordable magnificence and beauty, within reach now and will exist for all future generations.
If you are reading this and you get it – reach out, shout out, respond in every way you are able to help the world begin the march toward a positive change that is possible, and fun.
