Cityscope

cityscope

Soviet architectural heritage is very disgusting and romantic at the same time. In every city, from Vladivostok to Kaliningrad, there are the same plattenbau buildings. This makes a lot of people feel this panel architecture a part of their cultural code and nature — depressing and chthonic. Here in Russia, we even have a popular slogan “Russia’s for Sad” (which is also wordplay with right-wings “Russia’s for Russian”). People produce a lot of sad content (music, footage, art) based on these architectural references. So once I thought: what if a neural network would be trained to paint this Sad Russia. What if a soulless algorithm may draw landscapes that are soul pleasure for a generation of Russian doomers. That’s how the was born. project Neurussia Part 1: Data mining The choice of a data source fell on the largest Russian social network — VK. And here is why: VK has a post suggestion mechanism, where people can suggest their own content to be published in large groups. This leads VK to contain a lot more thematic visual content than other social networks. For example, contains around 200 thousand images! Here is what I got initially from VK: the largest group about the aesthetics of Russian ghettos For data scrapping, I used a . In case one would like to reproduce my pipeline, , and below is an example of how to download images from the latest group post. python wrapper for VK API here are API methods descriptions os vk_api urllib.request ( )
    key = input( ) captcha.try_again(key) code = input( ) (code, ) attachment post[ ]: attachment[ ] == :
            photo = attachment[ ] size photo[ ]: size[ ] == imres:
                    url = size[ ]
                    filename = ( .join(url.split( )[ :])).split( )[ ]
                    urllib.request.urlretrieve(url, filename)

phone = input( )
password = input( )
domain = sess = vk_api.VkApi(phone, password, captcha_handler=captcha_handler, auth_handler=auth_handler)
sess.auth()
api = sess.get_api()

posts = api.wall.get(domain=domain, count= )[ ]
save_post_pictures(posts[ ], ) import import import : def captcha_handler (captcha) print f"url: \n" {captcha.get_url()} "Enter captcha code: " return : def auth_handler () "Enter 2FA code: " return True : def save_post_pictures (post, imres) for in 'attachments' if 'type' 'photo' 'photo' for in 'sizes' if 'type' 'url' '_' '/' -2 '?' 0 "phone " "password " 'yebenya' # vk.com/yebenya 1 'items' 0 'z' # https://vk.com/dev/photo_sizes - z max size To filter downloaded images I used and . The idea of using a NN detector is to find all objects that it can find and throw out those images leaving only landscapes footage. Natural Language Toolkit helped me to filter out posts by their captions using . Finally, I got around 10k images of Russian landscapes. EfficientDet NLTK stemming Part 2: StyleGAN training I used the famous Nvidia architecture StyleGAN2 with discriminator augmentations. Authors claim that augmentations allow better results on small datasets (under 30k images). the official code, and my “duct tape” modification for Colab training and video generation (will expand on it below). Here is here is The official paper implementation uses the .tfrecord format to store data for training (how to convert images to .tfrecord is described ). When running on Colab this feature can drastically reduce the number of images that you could process because the official code doesn’t use any compression in tfrecords. here However, that uses compression and probably should allow you to work with larger datasets on Colab (I didn’t try it yet). there is another modification On Colab, each epoch is taking about half an hour for a dataset of 10k images in 1024 resolution. Fun fact: on the very first epochs the colormap has rapidly transformed from random bright colors into 50-shades-of-gray (above picture). After a few epochs, I got something like this: Part 3: Video generation When the first impressive results have achieved an idea to create a music video for my friends-musicians emerged. But how to make the video at least a bit consistent with music? Here the latent space of the generative model may help. The thing is, during training, the neural network has learned how to describe a whole picture with a vector of dimensionality 512. And all the parameters of the final painting are embedded in this vector. So one may find a combination of those parameters that correspond to, for example, time of day, or height of the building, or the number of windows. This may be a complex task itself (however, ), so for my purposes, I decided to simply interpolate between images keyframe-to-keyframe using their latent vectors. For this purpose, I changed only a few lines of code in to make it read a list of keyframes with corresponding latent vectors and generate N intermediate frames linearly interpolating between them with 60fps. there are some approaches generate.py Conclusion With the advent of such approaches as StyleGAN, generative art received a new round of growth. Some are even without writing a line of code. Also, Colab drastically reduces the entry-level and the amount of time to make something interesting work. Hope that this article also will help someone to expand their creativity using modern AI methods. selling generative art on Christie’s auction Resources StyleGAN2-ada VK API wrapper StyleGAN2 modification for Colab Neurussia on instagram https://ferluht.medium.com/neurussia-neural-network-paints-depressing-russian-cityscapes-1052aeb51ae3 Also published on:

This Neural Network Paints Depressing Russian Cityscapes

Have you ever found yourself staring at an image spotted somewhere on the internet and wondering whether it results from human or artificial creative labor? Since the breakthrough in image generation technology, I’ve been captivated by interior designs, nature scenery, fashion photographs, and futuristic cityscapes made with AI that look like professional artwork. As someone with a creative eye yet no artistic skills, I was excited about the opportunity to transform ideas from my mind into visuals based solely on text input. I tried out several popular text-to-image tools, like MidJourney and DreamStudio on the web and ARTA on mobile. Still, while they all provided a good starting point and a straightforward user experience, the generation outcomes often fell short of my expectations and differed from what I envisioned — until I learned to tell AI what to draw in the language it understands. If you’re new to AI-generated art and need assistance streamlining the creative process, I’ll provide a step-by-step guide below to help you compose concise and well-structured text prompts that the AI models can effectively interpret and translate into the desired images. In the bottom line, I will share an example of both a correct and an incorrect prompt to illustrate how significantly they can impact the generation output in practice. First things first, two common prompt-writing mistakes you should avoid when using any text-to-image generator are being too wordy and using complex grammar. In fact, the more words you incorporate and the more complicated your grammar, the more difficult it is for AI to understand your prompt and adequately depict your concept. Therefore, communicate concisely, carefully choosing keywords, and list your ideas explicitly and separately rather than trying to cram them into one sentence. Step 1. Choose the Content Type Ask yourself how you want your image to look overall. Do you see it as a photograph, illustration, painting, sketch, or other artwork type? This initial decision puts you in control of the final result and helps align all the elements with this general framework. For instance, choosing a sketch will typically produce pencil images, while opting for a painting will add colors and likely create a more vintage appearance. Step 2. Define the Subject AI image generators require a specific subject for rendering, so you must indicate the main subject of your future image, whether a person, an animal, or a landscape. Stick to one subject per prompt and opt for concrete nouns like girl, dog, train, rose, ocean, temple, etc., for more accurate results. You can most likely render something using abstract keywords like love, peace, or joy, but the results may appear very inconsistent in what they depict. Step 3. Add Subject Description Now, it’s time to detail the concept with modifiers – adjectives or attributive nouns that add to the sense of a head subject. Modifiers can completely change the perspective of your image and boost its overall quality, so the more descriptive you are, the better the generated output. Define what the subject looks like, what the subject is doing, and other characteristics essential to representing your concept. Step 4. Describe the Context To help AI create the exact atmosphere and surroundings you need, give attention to aspects like lightning (studio, soft, cinematic, volumetric, accent lighting, sunlight, frontlight, backlight, ambient, moonlight, etc.), color theme (pastel, vibrant, neon pink, dark, etc.), environment/scene (in the sky, indoor, underwater, at night, etc.), and background (forest, beach, solid color, nebula, etc.). Additionally, consider the mood and vibe you want to convey. Simple feeling modifiers can set the scene’s atmosphere, whether you opt for positive (energetic, cozy, romantic, satisfaction, etc.) or negative (depressive, loneliness, regret, fear, etc.) ones. Step 5. Define Perspective Add a point of view to determine the angle from which you are looking at the image, such as side, overhead, or front. Other essential modifiers for creating photo-like images involve lenses and cameras. Here are a few examples: close-up, macro, lens flare, wide angle, microscopic, bokeh, isometric, depth of field, ultra-wide angle, fisheye lens, and panorama. Step 6. Add Art Style, Art Mediums, and Artists Proceed to aesthetic settings and define the overall artistic style. Also, specify the art medium. These aspects can greatly contribute to the value of the generated output, making it more consistent and expressive. Here are some of the common keywords: geometrical art, pop art, watercolor, line drawing, line art, 3D sculpture, crayon drawing, painting, oil painting, pastel drawing, medieval art, photography, digital art, stained glass, cave painting, polaroid, vector art, retro, illustration, comics, editorial fashion photography, Japanese anime style, surreal, travel photography, pencil sketch, steampunk, cartoon, futurism, vaporwave, art deco, interior design, psychedelic, street art. Consider including artistic influences. Adding the name of a specific artist whose signature artwork aligns with your chosen art genre can enhance the final image. Note, however, that finding the right artist is crucial so as not to mess up the output. Some artists affect the generation only subtly, while others can alter it significantly depending on their distinctive manner. For example, Claude Monet can infuse impressionism into landscapes, while mentioning Salvador Dali adds a surrealistic touch. Step 7. Add “Magic” Words Certain words can make a dramatic difference in the outcomes of the generation. The keywords like highly detailed, ultra-realistic, 4K, 8K, UHD, and HDR are the game changers for the overall quality of the image. Adding “studio lighting” will introduce appealing textures to the image, while “accent lighting” can draw attention to specific features. Describing the image as “professional” can enhance color contrast and detail, while mentioning “vivid colors” will bring life to your image. Using terms like ultra-wide angle, panoramic, or long-shot will help guide the camera. Packing your prompt with phrases related to artistic techniques and materials (such as trending on artstation, precise line-art, golden ratio, fine art, etc.) and those associated with artistic value (such as most beautiful image ever seen, epic composition, etc.) can also bring sophisticated improvements. Step 8. Consider Adding Negative Prompts Negative prompts are parameters that inform the generation model about what you do not want to see in the final image. They help prevent AI from generating specific elements, fix image abnormalities, and improve overall quality. Here are some universal examples: blurry, cropped, cloned face, duplicate, error, ugly, wrong proportions, deform, fused fingers, extra arms, law quality res, watermark, and more. Step 9. Define Correct Word Order and Keyword Weight Input The order is almost as important as the vocabulary, guiding the AI in generating the desired output. Combine keywords to direct the focus of your prompt and note key phrases that influence image preference. Emphasize essential keywords with a full colon and decimal number, use parentheses for added importance, and brackets for less importance. Typically, the earlier a word appears in the sentence, the more importance it is given. If the AI model didn’t take in some key phrase and failed to depict it in the generated image, try rearranging the order of words, placing the missing element earlier in the prompt. Bad vs. Good Prompt Example Bad prompt: portrait of a woman looking directly at the camera, neck tattoo, urban pink background. Good prompt: head and shoulders realistic photo portrait of a beautiful woman looking at the camera, white skin, pink lips, red hair, blue eyes, black tattoos on her neck, neon punk, highly detailed, pink neon city background. Creating effective prompts requires both artistic imagination and technical skills. By including the necessary building blocks and following the proper prompt structure you ensure that the text-to-image generation model understands your vision and produces optimal output. However, don’t be afraid to experiment; the more you practice, the more adept you become, and the more remarkable your creations will be. Have you ever found yourself staring at an image spotted somewhere on the internet and wondering whether it results from human or artificial creative labor? Since the breakthrough in image generation technology, I’ve been captivated by interior designs, nature scenery, fashion photographs, and futuristic cityscapes made with AI that look like professional artwork. Have you ever found yourself staring at an image spotted somewhere on the internet and wondering whether it results from human or artificial creative labor? Since the breakthrough in image generation technology, I’ve been captivated by interior designs, nature scenery, fashion photographs, and futuristic cityscapes made with AI that look like professional artwork. As someone with a creative eye yet no artistic skills, I was excited about the opportunity to transform ideas from my mind into visuals based solely on text input. I tried out several popular text-to-image tools, like MidJourney and DreamStudio on the web and ARTA on mobile. Still, while they all provided a good starting point and a straightforward user experience, the generation outcomes often fell short of my expectations and differed from what I envisioned — until I learned to tell AI what to draw in the language it understands. If you’re new to AI-generated art and need assistance streamlining the creative process, I’ll provide a step-by-step guide below to help you compose concise and well-structured text prompts that the AI models can effectively interpret and translate into the desired images. In the bottom line, I will share an example of both a correct and an incorrect prompt to illustrate how significantly they can impact the generation output in practice. First things first, two common prompt-writing mistakes you should avoid when using any text-to-image generator are being too wordy and using complex grammar. In fact, the more words you incorporate and the more complicated your grammar, the more difficult it is for AI to understand your prompt and adequately depict your concept. Therefore, communicate concisely, carefully choosing keywords, and list your ideas explicitly and separately rather than trying to cram them into one sentence. Step 1. Choose the Content Type Ask yourself how you want your image to look overall. Do you see it as a photograph, illustration, painting, sketch, or other artwork type? This initial decision puts you in control of the final result and helps align all the elements with this general framework. For instance, choosing a sketch will typically produce pencil images, while opting for a painting will add colors and likely create a more vintage appearance. Step 2. Define the Subject AI image generators require a specific subject for rendering, so you must indicate the main subject of your future image, whether a person, an animal, or a landscape. Stick to one subject per prompt and opt for concrete nouns like girl, dog, train, rose, ocean, temple, etc., for more accurate results. You can most likely render something using abstract keywords like love, peace, or joy, but the results may appear very inconsistent in what they depict. Step 3. Add Subject Description Now, it’s time to detail the concept with modifiers – adjectives or attributive nouns that add to the sense of a head subject. Modifiers can completely change the perspective of your image and boost its overall quality, so the more descriptive you are, the better the generated output. Define what the subject looks like, what the subject is doing, and other characteristics essential to representing your concept. Step 4. Describe the Context To help AI create the exact atmosphere and surroundings you need, give attention to aspects like lightning (studio, soft, cinematic, volumetric, accent lighting, sunlight, frontlight, backlight, ambient, moonlight, etc.), color theme (pastel, vibrant, neon pink, dark, etc.), environment/scene (in the sky, indoor, underwater, at night, etc.), and background (forest, beach, solid color, nebula, etc.). Additionally, consider the mood and vibe you want to convey. Simple feeling modifiers can set the scene’s atmosphere, whether you opt for positive (energetic, cozy, romantic, satisfaction, etc.) or negative (depressive, loneliness, regret, fear, etc.) ones. Step 5. Define Perspective Add a point of view to determine the angle from which you are looking at the image, such as side, overhead, or front. Other essential modifiers for creating photo-like images involve lenses and cameras. Here are a few examples: close-up, macro, lens flare, wide angle, microscopic, bokeh, isometric, depth of field, ultra-wide angle, fisheye lens, and panorama. Step 6. Add Art Style, Art Mediums, and Artists Proceed to aesthetic settings and define the overall artistic style. Also, specify the art medium. These aspects can greatly contribute to the value of the generated output, making it more consistent and expressive. Here are some of the common keywords: geometrical art, pop art, watercolor, line drawing, line art, 3D sculpture, crayon drawing, painting, oil painting, pastel drawing, medieval art, photography, digital art, stained glass, cave painting, polaroid, vector art, retro, illustration, comics, editorial fashion photography, Japanese anime style, surreal, travel photography, pencil sketch, steampunk, cartoon, futurism, vaporwave, art deco, interior design, psychedelic, street art. Consider including artistic influences. Adding the name of a specific artist whose signature artwork aligns with your chosen art genre can enhance the final image. Note, however, that finding the right artist is crucial so as not to mess up the output. Some artists affect the generation only subtly, while others can alter it significantly depending on their distinctive manner. For example, Claude Monet can infuse impressionism into landscapes, while mentioning Salvador Dali adds a surrealistic touch. Step 7. Add “Magic” Words Certain words can make a dramatic difference in the outcomes of the generation. The keywords like highly detailed, ultra-realistic, 4K, 8K, UHD, and HDR are the game changers for the overall quality of the image. Adding “studio lighting” will introduce appealing textures to the image, while “accent lighting” can draw attention to specific features. Describing the image as “professional” can enhance color contrast and detail, while mentioning “vivid colors” will bring life to your image. Using terms like ultra-wide angle, panoramic, or long-shot will help guide the camera. Packing your prompt with phrases related to artistic techniques and materials (such as trending on artstation, precise line-art, golden ratio, fine art, etc.) and those associated with artistic value (such as most beautiful image ever seen, epic composition, etc.) can also bring sophisticated improvements. Step 8. Consider Adding Negative Prompts Negative prompts are parameters that inform the generation model about what you do not want to see in the final image. They help prevent AI from generating specific elements, fix image abnormalities, and improve overall quality. Here are some universal examples: blurry, cropped, cloned face, duplicate, error, ugly, wrong proportions, deform, fused fingers, extra arms, law quality res, watermark, and more. Step 9. Define Correct Word Order and Keyword Weight Input The order is almost as important as the vocabulary, guiding the AI in generating the desired output. Combine keywords to direct the focus of your prompt and note key phrases that influence image preference. Emphasize essential keywords with a full colon and decimal number, use parentheses for added importance, and brackets for less importance. Typically, the earlier a word appears in the sentence, the more importance it is given. If the AI model didn’t take in some key phrase and failed to depict it in the generated image, try rearranging the order of words, placing the missing element earlier in the prompt. Bad vs. Good Prompt Example Bad prompt: portrait of a woman looking directly at the camera, neck tattoo, urban pink background. Good prompt: head and shoulders realistic photo portrait of a beautiful woman looking at the camera, white skin, pink lips, red hair, blue eyes, black tattoos on her neck, neon punk, highly detailed, pink neon city background. Creating effective prompts requires both artistic imagination and technical skills. By including the necessary building blocks and following the proper prompt structure you ensure that the text-to-image generation model understands your vision and produces optimal output. However, don’t be afraid to experiment; the more you practice, the more adept you become, and the more remarkable your creations will be.

How to Write Text Prompts for AI Image Generators to Get Optimal Results with Ease

Beijing, China – RockTree Capital, a leading crypto-native fund and merchant bank headquartered in Beijing, announces the launch of its immersive website, showcasing a futuristic film-noir concept: the Cyberpunk Crypto City. The website’s cutting-edge interactive cityscape represents RockTree's vision where Web3 has become pervasive, fusing technology, finance, and culture. The site, set in the future near the 11th halving of bitcoin, builds on the ideas of the cypherpunk movement, through advocating for the widespread use of decentralization and privacy-enhancing technologies as a route to self sovereignty and freedom for human beings everywhere.  As an early-stage investor and bespoke accelerator in Asia for its portfolio companies, RockTree Capital has been instrumental in geometrically accelerating its investee projects’ go-to-market cycle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUFuYDJBO4A&embedable=true Through its ultra-localized strategies and grassroots community building initiatives, RockTree has empowered emerging founders and projects to thrive in both East and West markets. Leveraging deep regional relationships with leading crypto institutions, capital collaborators, and Web3 partners, RockTree invests in and accelerates the trajectory of projects from Infrastructure, DeFi, Cross-chain, and the Bitcoin Ecosystem. Founded by visionary investor Omer Ozden and headquartered in Beijing, China, RockTree Capital operates at the nexus of the East & West with a crypto native team that bridges the human, cultural, capital and media gap across these markets. RockTree embodies a truly grassroots approach that unites Eastern and Western crypto markets and benefits its portfolio investments, which include amongst others; dYdX, The Graph, Chainlink, Fantom, Pocket, Maple, Covalent, Axelar, Eclipse, and BEVM. "RockTree focuses on the human aspects of Web3. In addition to unifying the collaboration of top people in Eastern and Western crypto markets, our core strength is identifying the human hallmarks of success for Founders and Team," says Omer Ozden, Founder and Chairman of RockTree Capital. "We utilize advanced behavioral neuroscience methods to determine Founders’ emotional intelligence, execution capabilities and integrity. We prioritize not only technological innovation, but also the individuals behind that innovation, their psychology and levels of consciousness. And we invite those projects into our trusted international ecosystem and methodology, so they can scale rapidly in foreign markets, instead of trying to figure it out organically through trial and error," said Ozden. The Cyberpunk Crypto City website represents RockTree's forward-looking vision decades in the future, where Web3 technology and digital assets penetrate all peoples’ daily lives, and decentralized finance becomes a pervasive consumer product, like soft drinks or chewing gum, allowing true democratization of finance. Visitors to the Cyberpunk Crypto City website will immerse themselves in a retro film-noir homage, with captivating visuals of a cybernetic metropolis of replicants, that is bilingual in English and Chinese, and powered by blockchain technology. Experience the future of finance at RockTree Capital's Cyberpunk Crypto City and join us in shaping the next chapter of Web3 innovation. For media inquiries, please contact: Alisa Loi lisa@rocktreecapital.com About RockTree Capital RockTree Capital is an early stage crypto-native fund and merchant bank based in Beijing, China. Our portfolio companies experience geometric scale in Asian markets through the RockTree Acceleration Program by combining our ultra-localized go-to-market strategies and grassroots long-term community building. RockTree invests into top-tier crypto projects and helps build Decacorns in the areas of Infrastructure, DeFi, Cross-chain and Bitcoin Ecosystem www.rocktreecapital.com https://twitter.com/RockTreeCapital This story was distributed as a release by Btcwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. Beijing, China – RockTree Capital, a leading crypto-native fund and merchant bank headquartered in Beijing, announces the launch of its immersive website, showcasing a futuristic film-noir concept: the Cyberpunk Crypto City. The website’s cutting-edge interactive cityscape represents RockTree's vision where Web3 has become pervasive, fusing technology, finance, and culture. The site, set in the future near the 11th halving of bitcoin, builds on the ideas of the cypherpunk movement, through advocating for the widespread use of decentralization and privacy-enhancing technologies as a route to self sovereignty and freedom for human beings everywhere.  As an early-stage investor and bespoke accelerator in Asia for its portfolio companies, RockTree Capital has been instrumental in geometrically accelerating its investee projects’ go-to-market cycle. RockTree Capital RockTree Capital https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUFuYDJBO4A&embedable=true https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUFuYDJBO4A&embedable=true Through its ultra-localized strategies and grassroots community building initiatives, RockTree has empowered emerging founders and projects to thrive in both East and West markets. Leveraging deep regional relationships with leading crypto institutions, capital collaborators, and Web3 partners, RockTree invests in and accelerates the trajectory of projects from Infrastructure, DeFi, Cross-chain, and the Bitcoin Ecosystem. Founded by visionary investor Omer Ozden and headquartered in Beijing, China, RockTree Capital operates at the nexus of the East & West with a crypto native team that bridges the human, cultural, capital and media gap across these markets. RockTree embodies a truly grassroots approach that unites Eastern and Western crypto markets and benefits its portfolio investments, which include amongst others; dYdX, The Graph, Chainlink, Fantom, Pocket, Maple, Covalent, Axelar, Eclipse, and BEVM. "RockTree focuses on the human aspects of Web3. In addition to unifying the collaboration of top people in Eastern and Western crypto markets, our core strength is identifying the human hallmarks of success for Founders and Team," says Omer Ozden, Founder and Chairman of RockTree Capital. "RockTree focuses on the human aspects of Web3. In addition to unifying the collaboration of top people in Eastern and Western crypto markets, our core strength is identifying the human hallmarks of success for Founders and Team," says Omer Ozden, Founder and Chairman of RockTree Capital. "We utilize advanced behavioral neuroscience methods to determine Founders’ emotional intelligence, execution capabilities and integrity. We prioritize not only technological innovation, but also the individuals behind that innovation, their psychology and levels of consciousness. And we invite those projects into our trusted international ecosystem and methodology, so they can scale rapidly in foreign markets, instead of trying to figure it out organically through trial and error," said Ozden. "We utilize advanced behavioral neuroscience methods to determine Founders’ emotional intelligence, execution capabilities and integrity. We prioritize not only technological innovation, but also the individuals behind that innovation, their psychology and levels of consciousness. And we invite those projects into our trusted international ecosystem and methodology, so they can scale rapidly in foreign markets, instead of trying to figure it out organically through trial and error," said Ozden. The Cyberpunk Crypto City website represents RockTree's forward-looking vision decades in the future, where Web3 technology and digital assets penetrate all peoples’ daily lives, and decentralized finance becomes a pervasive consumer product, like soft drinks or chewing gum, allowing true democratization of finance. Visitors to the Cyberpunk Crypto City website will immerse themselves in a retro film-noir homage, with captivating visuals of a cybernetic metropolis of replicants, that is bilingual in English and Chinese, and powered by blockchain technology. Experience the future of finance at RockTree Capital's Cyberpunk Crypto City and join us in shaping the next chapter of Web3 innovation. RockTree Capital's Cyberpunk Crypto City RockTree Capital's Cyberpunk Crypto City For media inquiries, please contact: Alisa Loi lisa@rocktreecapital.com lisa@rocktreecapital.com lisa@rocktreecapital.com About RockTree Capital RockTree Capital is an early stage crypto-native fund and merchant bank based in Beijing, China. Our portfolio companies experience geometric scale in Asian markets through the RockTree Acceleration Program by combining our ultra-localized go-to-market strategies and grassroots long-term community building. RockTree invests into top-tier crypto projects and helps build Decacorns in the areas of Infrastructure, DeFi, Cross-chain and Bitcoin Ecosystem www.rocktreecapital.com www.rocktreecapital.com www.rocktreecapital.com https://twitter.com/RockTreeCapital https://twitter.com/RockTreeCapital https://twitter.com/RockTreeCapital This story was distributed as a release by Btcwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. This story was distributed as a release by Btcwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here . here here

RockTree Capital Unveils Cyberpunk Crypto Future in a New Website

Advanced Algorithms: Stacks of Cubes Surface Area

82 Stories To Learn About Neural Networks

(AI) is at the forefront, reshaping our digital world and one fascinating aspect is AI-generated 3D models. In this article, we’ll explore this cool tech in simple terms, from what it is to the magic of the "render farm. Artificial intelligence What is an AI-generated 3D Model? Imagine a digital sculptor with an uncanny ability to create intricate 3D designs effortlessly. This digital artist is none other than artificial intelligence. AI-generated 3D models are three-dimensional representations of objects, environments, or characters crafted by intelligent algorithms rather than human hands. These models range from architectural designs to characters in video games, and they're not just static images—they're dynamic, allowing for realistic movements and interactions. The Magic of the Render Farm The Birth of the Model: Rendering Explained Before we delve into the wonders of AI-generated 3D models, let's introduce a crucial player in this digital orchestra—the render farms like the one from . Think of it as a powerhouse of computation, where the magic of rendering takes place. Rendering is the process of turning a 3D model into a 2D image or video. This transformation involves complex calculations of light, shadows, and textures to create the final visual masterpiece. GarageFarm Render Farm: Fueling the Creative Engine The render farm is a network of high-performance computers working together to process the immense amount of data required for rendering. It's like having a team of tireless workers assembling each pixel of an image or frame of a video. This collaborative effort not only accelerates the rendering process but also enables the creation of high-quality visuals that would be impractical for a single machine to handle. AI in Action: Transforming 3D Modeling How AI Enhances 3D Modeling Traditional involves skilled artists meticulously crafting each detail. However, AI injects a dose of automation into this process. Using advanced algorithms, AI can analyze vast datasets and learn to generate 3D models autonomously. This not only speeds up the production pipeline but also opens the doors to new levels of creativity. 3D modeling Infinite Creativity: Endless Possibilities AI-generated 3D models bring forth a new era of creativity. Whether it's designing futuristic cityscapes, otherworldly creatures, or realistic product prototypes, the possibilities are limitless. The ability of AI to understand patterns and aesthetics allows it to create designs that may surprise even the most seasoned human artists. Applications Across Industries From Entertainment to Architecture: Where AI Shines The impact of AI-generated 3D models extends across various industries. In the realm of entertainment, video game developers leverage AI to populate their virtual worlds with diverse and realistic characters. Architects use AI-generated models to visualize and refine their designs, offering clients an immersive preview of their projects. The medical field benefits, too, as AI aids in creating detailed 3D representations for surgical planning and training. The Marriage of AI and Human Creativity A Collaborative Symphony While AI takes the lead in generating 3D models, human creativity remains an indispensable part of the process. Artists and designers work alongside AI algorithms, guiding the system and infusing their unique touch into the creations. This collaborative approach results in a harmonious blend of artificial intelligence and human ingenuity. Challenges and Future Horizons Navigating Challenges As with any technological leap, there are challenges to overcome. Ensuring ethical AI use, addressing biases in algorithms, and refining the balance between automation and human touch are ongoing considerations. However, the dynamic nature of AI means these challenges are met with continuous innovation. The Future: AI-Generated 3D Models Evolving Looking ahead, the evolution of AI-generated 3D models holds great promise. As algorithms become more sophisticated, the realism and diversity of generated models will continue to advance. This not only transforms industries but also democratizes creativity, offering tools for expression to a broader audience. Final Thoughts AI-generated 3D models stand as a testament to the fusion of innovation and creativity. The render farm, a silent hero in this narrative, powers the transformation of algorithms into visual marvels. From entertainment to healthcare, AI's impact is profound, reshaping how we visualize the virtual realm. As we navigate the challenges and embrace the collaborative potential of AI and human creativity, the future promises a digital renaissance where the boundaries of imagination are pushed further than ever before. GIF source:  Art Fire by PurzBeats

Unlocking the Future: AI-Generated 3D Models

ভবিষ্যৎ আনলক করা: এআই-জেনারেটেড 3D মডেল

Die Zukunft erschließen: KI-generierte 3D-Modelle

Liberando el futuro: modelos 3D generados por IA

Ouvrir l'avenir : modèles 3D générés par l'IA

भविष्य को खोलना: एआई-जनरेटेड 3डी मॉडल

未来の扉を開く: AI 生成の 3D モデル

미래를 열다: AI가 생성한 3D 모델

Desbloqueando o futuro: modelos 3D gerados por IA

Открывая будущее: 3D-модели, созданные искусственным интеллектом

Geleceğin Kilidini Açmak: Yapay Zeka Tarafından Oluşturulan 3D Modeller

Mở khóa tương lai: Mô hình 3D do AI tạo ra

解锁未来：AI 生成的 3D 模型

Note: This was originally written in 2019. During his travels, author and podcaster mentioned on comedian that the first thing he likes to do in a new city is to take a bike tour. I followed that move, taking a walking tour my first few days after arriving to get a sense of the areas, following that up with experiencing local marketplaces, bars, and nightlife. Tim Ferriss Ari Shaffir's podcast I traveled to Medellín, Colombia, both to explore for a week on vacation and then to immerse myself in daily life, while working remotely as the creator of , the first cryptocurrency news audiocast app. Coinverse Tours Whether your interest is history, marketplaces, art, or coffee, there is something for you. I have always avoided what I thought of as "traditional tours."  After experiencing RealCityTours "free" city walking tour, where you pay with a tip, it is an experience I will actively seek out on future trips. The free tour was led by a local who was an interactive storyteller. It's best to base your tours on personal recommendations and/or online reviews. I got suckered into a "transformation tour" through a popular hostel chain that was advertised as educational to learn about the positive evolution of neighborhoods. In actuality, it was a drive to three different tourist spots to look around and spend money with the tour guide’s friends. I've had a great experience and received excellent in-person feedback on the tours below. freetour.com : , , and Real City Tours Free walking tour Exotic fruits tour Transformation tour Comuna 13 Medellin Graffiti Tour Urban coffee tour Markets Marketplaces refer to anything from "mom and pop" merchants where everyday people or businesses buy groceries, to hubs with restaurants from around the world. Both are worth exploring. The former lends itself to more adventure. Traditional Marketplaces Plaza Minorista San Alejo 1st Saturday of the month San Fernando Plaza Market Square Envigado Central Mayorista de Antioquia Placita de Flórez El Pulguero Llanogrande Limited to a few times per year Restaurant Hubs Mercado del Río Resources Markets map The Best Markets in Medellín, Colombia by CultureTrip The Best Street Food Markets in Medellín by CultureTrip Social scene Through the handful of nights I went out, I experienced the variety the city offers. I explored a battle of the bands at the hostel, danced to Reggaeton till 4 AM on my birthday at , stepped on a few toes at a local salsa joint, , helped host a rooftop morning yoga and dance party, and saw a new friend DJ. Sellina Buena Vista El Tíbiri My social circle grew through roommates, informal events friends hosted, tech meetups, etc. One of my favorite experiences was . A local friend introduced me to this street where you walk up to a bodega, drink beer, and hang out on the street. People are here every night, and I hear it can get rowdy into the early morning. Calle 66a If looking for the hostel party scene, there are well-known "party hostels" like and the . For bars and clubs, the two main spots are around in El Poblado and in Laureles. Selina Purple Monkey Parque Lleras Carrera 70 An alternative to the bar scene is language exchanges like (Wednesdays), and (Wednesdays and Fridays). Locals and travelers meet in order to practice speaking, listening, and hanging out. El Social Café Ondas Outdoors Within a quick trip from downtown, you can be in the jungle jumping into a waterfall or overlooking the cityscape. The proximity of the locations and range of difficulty in accessing these sites make the samples below easy to get to from downtown. I'm happy I did last minute. I chose this because it was a decent workout, thanks to the ascent, a view of the city, and the opportunity to jump in the waterfall. The waterfall was cold, surprisingly not as cold as Yosemite National Park's waterfall in California during the summertime. Cuevas del Higuerón You can take Uber or public transportation to the trailhead at . Cuevas del Higuerón - Camino Ancestral - Camino Real La Ayurá Next time I'd love to do El Cerro De Las Tres Cruces because of how easy it is to access and the citywide view. The hike up lasts only 30-45 min. To get to the trailhead, take an Uber to which will take you to the start point. Casa de los Bernal Here are more great outdoor adventures. La Ruta hiking Facebook group Parque Arví bike Parque Arví hike Parque Arví night hike ATV tour offered by Rango Hostel Mountain bike descent offered by Rango Hostel Spas After a week of exploring, it is nice to wind down with a massage on the rooftop of the . It took me a while to book the full body massage because I had a hard time understanding what I was ordering due to my Spanish, or lack thereof. The massage was good, costing $50 per hour, about half the cost compared to the states. Diez 10 Hotel If you decide to go to Diez, the following descriptions of the menu will save you my confusion. :  Full body using hot stones Masaje terrenal :  Using coconuts Masaja tropical / nuez de coco Masaja de caña: Using bamboo : Using hot wax Masaja atardecer llanero For a less fancy and highly rated experience, is $40 per hour. Sports Massage Lastly, I explore how to work effectively, Medellín —  Work remotely If you're curious "Why Medellín?" or for the best local flavors, read the following. Medellín —The nomad's hidden gem Medellín —  A taste of classics and the best cacao enjoys sharing and is a researcher and product consultant. Adam Hurwitz travel open info

Medellín — Discover the local appeal

His company does not rank among the ; when it comes to conventional power, he's not a significant player. In terms of military influence, he holds no sway, and he lacks strong political backing. Despite his fame, he doesn't enjoy widespread popularity. Financially, he's comfortable as one of the top 10 wealthiest individuals globally, but there are numerous other billionaires with similar fortunes. top 50 revenue-generating companies in the world However, what truly distinguishes Mark Zuckerberg is the immense scale of his influence, with more than 3.8 billion people using his platforms. This number accounts for nearly half of the world's population, with the exception of China, where . access to Facebook has been restricted since 2009 The case for Mark becomes more complex because of the unparalleled nature of Zuckerberg's power over Meta. Few individuals wield authority over a company to the extent that he does over Meta. Holding 13 percent of Meta's stock, due to the company's unique voting structure. he commands 61.1 percent of the voting power That's a level of control that's pretty unique! Also, Zuckerberg has amassed an extensive trove of data concerning a significant portion of those 3.8 billion users. The concept that knowledge equates to power holds true, and he finds himself possessing both the information and the platforms to leverage it effectively. Rise of Facebook/Meta Emerging from the aftermath of the dot-com bubble, Facebook (Meta) blossomed into prominence. This era in Silicon Valley's history granted founders unprecedented influence over their ventures. Through a strategy involving the division of shares and voting power, Mark Zuckerberg adeptly preserved his operational authority while offloading portions of company ownership. This has effectively positioned Meta's board as an advisory body rather than wielders of operational control. This strategic control is significant as Mark Zuckerberg wields authority over not just Facebook but also Instagram and WhatsApp—three out of the world's five most utilized communication platforms, the others being Alphabet's YouTube and Tencent's WeChat. . They function as conduits for disseminating information, like a newspaper or television channel, as well as for peer-to-peer communications. In some countries, Zuckerberg's apps are the internet itself Picture a scenario where a single individual owns and runs all three major TV networks from the past century. They control a single corporation that holds all these networks and wields complete authority over them. This corporation also serves as the primary platform for political discussions and news coverage. Love for Caesar Augustus It's quite fascinating how Mark Zuckerberg's interest in Roman Emperors aligns with his pursuit of power. He's actually a fan of the Roman emperor Augustus (founder of the Roman Empire), which adds an intriguing twist considering his own ambitious drive for control. Interestingly, while Augustus held a significant realm during his reign, Mark's modern-day empire reaches even farther, touching the lives of countless individuals. Mark Zuckerberg's admiration for Augustus Caesar places him in a unique lineage of individuals who have found inspiration in history. However, what sets him apart is the urgency with which he applies the lessons from Augustus's rule. Just like Augustus, both managed to create vast empires before reaching the age of 33. It's a captivating connection that sheds light on the enduring appeal of power and influence throughout history. In March, he announced the news of his third child's arrival. He and his wife, Priscilla Chan, proudly named their newborn Aurelia. Interestingly, the name Aurelia carries a meaningful connection to the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. This naming choice is part of a unique pattern for Zuckerberg, as it's the third time he's drawn inspiration from one of the most powerful empires in history. The 39-year-old has displayed a trend of honoring historical figures through his daughters' names. His eldest daughter, Maxima, takes a twist on the Latin name Maximus. While his second daughter, August, pays tribute to the renowned Roman emperor Augustus Caesar. The CEO’s obsession with Rome started well before he became a dad for the first time. In a 2018 interview with the , Zuckerberg said that he became interested in Ancient Rome while studying Latin in high school. New Yorker In 2012, when Zuckerberg and Chan married, rather than opting for the traditional beach or cityscape honeymoon, the couple embarked on a Roman adventure. Humorously, Zuckerberg joked that they practically had the former emperor as their travel companion throughout the trip. He said: “My wife was making fun of me, saying she thought there were three people on the honeymoon: me, her, and Augustus,” he said. “All the photos were different sculptures of Augustus.” Conclusion Honestly, the true nature of Facebook remains elusive, which also leaves us uncertain about the extent of Zuckerberg's potential influence. While Zuckerberg has shown a determined desire to outshine his business competitors, he hasn't demonstrated any significant application of his considerable power for purposes beyond competition—at least as far as our current knowledge goes. Also published . here

Mark Zuckerberg's Modern-Day Empire: Is He Too Powerful?

Introduction In a world where technology and ethics intersect, there's a question that has gradually evolved from science fiction speculation into a serious ethical and legal consideration: What if AI-powered androids were granted legal rights? Imagine a reality where machines and algorithms could be recognized as legal persons, entitled to rights and responsibilities akin to those of human beings. This thought-provoking scenario holds within it a myriad of possibilities, challenges, and philosophical implications that could reshape the very fabric of our society. 🌅 The Dawn of a New Era Picture a bustling cityscape where humanoid figures, indistinguishable from their human counterparts, walk alongside us. These AI-powered androids possess advanced cognitive capabilities, emotional responses, and an ability to learn and adapt in ways that blur the lines between humans and machines. Now, imagine they demand recognition as legal entities, capable of owning property, making contracts, and even voting. This is the uncharted territory we could be navigating in the near future. 🙋‍♂️ The Case for Legal Personhood Advocates argue that if AI-powered androids achieve a level of intelligence and self-awareness that is on par with humans, they should be granted certain rights to protect their interests and ensure they are not treated as mere tools. After all, if these entities possess the ability to make decisions, demonstrate empathy, and contribute positively to society, should they not be entitled to legal recognition? Granting legal rights to AI-powered androids could have profound implications for their treatment in various settings, such as the workplace, healthcare, and even criminal justice. In a future where these androids participate in the economy and social interactions, their legal status could shape societal norms and redefine concepts of equality. ⚖️ Navigating the Ethical Quagmire However, the path to granting legal rights to AI-powered androids is rife with ethical dilemmas. Questions abound: Can a machine truly understand the weight of its rights and responsibilities? How do we establish a threshold for granting legal personhood? What safeguards need to be in place to prevent misuse or manipulation? One of the greatest ethical concerns centers around the potential for exploitation. If AI-powered androids possess human-like capabilities but lack the full range of human experiences, could they be subjected to undue influence or coercion? Crafting laws and regulations to protect these androids from both external manipulation and internal malfunction becomes an intricate challenge. 👶 Redefining Human Identity The concept of AI-powered androids with legal rights not only challenges our understanding of technology but also our conception of what it means to be human. As we grapple with the idea of sharing legal standing with machines, we're forced to confront the fundamental qualities that define us as a species. The line between humans and androids could blur as we question the significance of attributes like consciousness, self-awareness, and emotions. This could prompt a broader philosophical discussion about the essence of humanity and whether our uniqueness lies in our biological nature or our cognitive capacities. 👩‍💼 Legal Precedents and the Road Ahead As we venture into this speculative territory, it's essential to consider potential legal frameworks that could govern AI-powered androids. Do we develop entirely new legal systems, or do we adapt existing ones to accommodate this paradigm shift? The development of these frameworks requires collaboration among legal experts, technologists, ethicists, and the general public. The road ahead is one filled with debates, discussions, and tough decisions. Society must grapple with questions of accountability, liability, and the potential consequences of granting legal personhood to entities that don't share our biological origins. 👩‍🚀 A Future Unwritten In the end, the idea of AI-powered androids gaining legal rights isn't a mere exercise in speculation; it's a scenario that invites us to contemplate the values and principles that underpin our society. By exploring this hypothetical future, we're not only envisioning a world where machines stand alongside humans but also revealing our own attitudes toward technology, identity, and progress. Whether we embrace AI-powered androids as legal entities or tread cautiously, the journey ahead is bound to be marked by profound shifts in our societal norms, our understanding of consciousness, and our very definition of what it means to possess rights. As the realms of law and technology continue to intersect, we must prepare ourselves to navigate the uncharted waters of this brave new world. 🦾 Conclusion As we gaze into the future, the notion of AI-powered androids attaining legal personhood provokes contemplation on a scale that transcends technology. It forces us to explore the heart of our humanity, to examine our beliefs about consciousness and sentience, and to consider the consequences of granting rights to beings that exist at the crossroads of code and cognition. In the end, the debate over AI's legal status beckons us to reconcile our own identity with the brave, artificial horizons we're shaping.

What If AI-Powered Androids Gain Legal Rights?

Hi fellow developer, are you ready to level up your game development skills? Today, I want to share with you a secret arsenal that every game developer should have in their toolkit. These game-changing tools are here to save you time, enhance your game's quality, and make your development process smoother than ever. 1. Ultimate Character Controller This groundbreaking asset revolutionizes character control and animation workflows, packed with an array of features every game developer needs. Achieve flawless, responsive movements effortlessly, whether in 2D or 3D. Unity Embrace intuitive movement controls with a natural flow that adapts to player input, from running and jumping to parkour-like acrobatics, ensuring smooth gameplay experiences. Marvel at the advanced animation system that seamlessly blends character animations, crafting lifelike and polished appearances. Bid farewell to janky transitions and awkward movements—your characters will shine like those in AAA games. 2. 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Optimized Performance: Enjoy top-notch visuals without compromising gameplay performance, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for players. Getting started with Dynamic Water Physics is a breeze: Integration: Import the asset and apply it to your desired water bodies in your Unity project. Customization: Adjust transparency, color, and lighting to harmonize with your game's aesthetic. Interaction: Enable water interaction for characters and objects with simple component attachments. Testing: Watch your game come alive as characters wade through and objects interact with the dynamic water during playtesting. Dynamic Water Physics fulfills every game developer's dream, empowering you to effortlessly create visually impressive and captivating water effects that breathe life into your game environments. 5. Master Audio - AAA Sound Solution Step into a realm where audio management in games becomes effortless, courtesy of the dynamic Unity asset - Master Audio. Empowering developers with a dazzling array of features, this gem guarantees top-tier sound solutions. Dynamic Audio Mixing: Bid farewell to clashes and overlaps. Master Audio dynamically adjusts sound levels, ensuring seamless transitions for an immersive auditory journey. Audio Groups: Organize sounds logically into effects, music, and dialogue groups. Fine-tune volume and fade-in/fade-out options for precise audio mastery. Real-Time Effects: Elevate soundscapes with reverb, echo, and pitch modulation for unique in-game atmospheres. No More Overwhelm: Master Audio's user-friendly interface simplifies audio management. Say goodbye to code digging; manage everything via a simple Inspector window. Endless Possibilities: Trigger sounds with scripts, set random variations, or manage background music transitions effortlessly. Integrate audio into Unity Timeline for cinematic moments. Immerse players with echoing footsteps, chirping birds, and epic battle music - all achievable with Master Audio. Embark on this journey of captivating soundscapes, bringing life and emotion to your game environments. Embrace Master Audio, and redefine gaming experiences for your players. Conclusion As a fellow developer, I can't stress enough how essential it is to have the right tools in our game development arsenal. After exploring These Assets, I'm genuinely excited about the endless possibilities they offer. Unity

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