Mango3is in the Enterprise Information Management Industry

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Decentralized finance (DeFi) trading platform Mango Markets was recently exploited with hackers draining the platform of over worth of crypto. According to a tweet by Mango's official Twitter account, it seems that "oracle price manipulation" was the method used to attack the Solana-based DeFi platform. $110 million Another broke down how the attack went. The attackers started by depositing $5m worth of USDC to an account on the platform. The funds were then used to offer 483 million units of the platform's native Mango (MNGO) token in the form of perps (perpetual contracts). thread on Twitter Next, the attacker funded another account with to buy the 483 units of MNGO perpetual contracts. The attacker used this method to spike the price of MNGO from $0.03 to $0.91, making their MNGO perps worth . $5 million of USDC $423 million The money was then used to take out a loan of $116m using multiple tokens on the platform, including Bitcoin, Solana, and Serum. Unfortunately, the loan wiped out all of the liquidity in Mango Markets, causing the price of MNGO to crash to $0.02. Mango Market's development team confirmed that they are looking into what happened and have opened an investigation into it. The protocol announced via its various social media channels that it has blocked deposits while they investigate further. The team also told users not to deposit funds into the platform before they blocked deposits. Why Were Mango Markets exploited? Price manipulation was the method used to take out large perpetual contracts to push the price of MNGO over 45x in such as short time frame. This works by an attacker taking advantage of low liquidity to artificially boost a token's price. It is the same method used in pump and dump schemes; find a token with low liquidity, place large buy orders to drive up the price, and then use new investors as exit liquidity to cash out. However, this attack method is hard to pull off when there is a very high amount of liquidity since it would take a lot more capital to manipulate the price. This is why pump-and-dump schemes are more popular with new or fairly unknown tokens since they usually have very low liquidity. If they had sufficient liquidity, Mango Markets could have avoided this attack. One way that Mango Markets could have increased their liquidity is through the use of an automated market maker (AMM). Automated market makers are systems that gather liquidity from users and use algorithms to determine a token's price. AMMs work by large token holders known as liquidity providers (LPs), adding tokens pairs (i.e., MNGO/USDC) into pools in equal amounts. This enables decentralized exchanges to outsource their liquidity while compensating the LPs with a cut of the trading fees earned on the platform. According to Ben Roth, Co-founder and CIO of , having a sophisticated market maker can act as a clear deterrent for adverse trading behaviour during all market conditions. By working with a firm that is able to algorithmically provide deep, consistent liquidity, projects ensure that ‘bad actors’ are left with an increased level of uncertainty that their price manipulation strategy will be successful. Auros The Aftermath A day after the attack on Mango Markets, the attacker used the platform's decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) to make a proposal. that the Mango DAO use its $70 million community treasury to reimburse any bad debts. The attacker proposed If the proposal is approved, the Mango DAO team will utilize the cash from their treasury to compensate for any unpaid debts. Afterward, the hacker would transmit the stolen tokens to an address supplied by the team behind the Mango DAO. In another act of manipulation, the hacker seemed to support this proposition by voting with millions of tokens stolen via the attack. Nevertheless, the quorum requirements for passing the proposal have not been met, so the proposal may not be accepted. The attacker also requested that no criminal proceedings be pursued should the proposal go through. Conclusion Mango Markets was attacked using price manipulation to spike the price of its native token and then take out massive loans in various other tokens on the platform. The attacker then demanded that the Mango DAO reimburse any bad debts using their treasury funds in return for the stolen liquidity.

How and Why Mango Markets Was Able to Be Exploited by Attackers

This paper is available on arxiv under CC 4.0 license.
Authors:
(1) J´anos Pintz, Supported by the National Research Development and Innovation Office, NKFIH, KKP 133819, ELKH Alfr´ed R´enyi Mathematical Institute H-1053 Budapest Realtanoda u. 13–15. Hungary and e-mail: pintz@renyi.hu Table of Links 1
2
3 Proof of Theorem 1
References Keywords and phrases: Riemann’s zeta function, density hypothesis, density theorems. 2020 Mathematics Subject Classification: Primary 11M26, Secondary 11M06. 1 The plausibility of the Riemann Hypothesis (RH) is supported (among others) by results of type (1.1) valid for all σ > 1/2 as T → ∞. (1.1) was first shown by Bohr and Landau in 1914 ([BL1914]). The first estimate of type was shown few years later by Carlson [Car1920] with It was Hoheisel [Hoh1930] who first observed that such estimates lead to arithmetic consequences about the difference of consecutive primes. He proved the first approximation towards the famous conjecture that there exists always a prime between two consecutive squares. This conjecture was characterised by Landau [Lan1913] in his plenary talk at ICM1912 in Cambridge as one of the four main problems of the distribution of primes, besides the Riemann Hypothesis. Hoheisel [Hoh1930] could show (pn denotes the nth prime) In the proof important role was played by Carlson’s density theorem (1.2)– (1.3). Later it was realized that a uniform estimate of the form yields (combined with a slightly better zero-free region than the classical one of de la Vall´ee Poussin) In particular, the best possible estimate A = 2 would almost imply Landau’s conjecture. This is especially remarkable in light of the fact that even assuming the Riemann Hypothesis the best estimate we know is (with C = 2 easily by the Riemann–Von Mangoldt explicit formula, with C = 1 by a deeper argument of Cram´er [Cra1921]). This explains the significance of the Density Hypothesis (DH) which states or, in a slightly weaker form, using the notation (1.2), The Riemann Hypothesis clearly implies the Density Hypothesis. However, Ingham [Ing1937] showed that also the Lindel¨of Hypothesis (LH) (1.10) implies DH. In 1954 Tur´an [Tur1954] used his celebrated power-sum method [Tur1953], [Tur1984] to give a different proof of Ingham’s result that LH implies DH. In the same work he came very close to breaking the DH in the vicinity of the boundary line σ = 1. In the following we will use the notation: His result was with a small constant c1 [Tur1954] or with our new notation It was 16 years later when G. Hal´asz and Tur´an succeeded to break the DH [HT1969], that is, to prove (in the refined form appearing as Theorem 38.2 of Tur´an’s book [Tur1984]) with the notation (1.1)–(1.2), (1.11) The proof was based on (i) Vinogradov’s estimate µ(1 − η) ≪ η 3/2, (ii) Tur´an’s power-sum method; (iii) a simple but ingenious idea of Hal´asz [Hal1968]. Soon after this Bombieri [Bom1971] gave a different proof using ideas from the large sieve coupled with (i) and (iii). Further, Montgomery has shown the DH for σ ≥ 9/10, i.e. η ≤ 1/10 ([Mon1969], [Mon1971]). Using another simple but ingenious idea Huxley [Hux1972] (with a refinement of Montgomery) reached the DH for η ≤ 1/6 and proved that The DH was shown for larger and larger ranges, until improving the result σ > 11/14 of Jutila [Jut1977] Bourgain proved its validity [Bou2000] for Another direction of the research was to give strong density estimates for small values of η (often especially for η → 0). In this direction the most important results were reached (in alphabetical order) by Bourgain, Ford, Heath-Brown, Huxley, Ivic, Jutila and Montgomery. All these results use the large sieve and in some form the mentioned idea of Hal´asz, which needs η ≤ 1/4. This is also the reason that they cannot give improvements of the classical zero-density theorem of Ingham [Ing1940], A(σ) ≤ 3/(2 − σ), which is still the best today in the whole range Recently I gave two alternative variants for proving the DH for small values of η. In [Pin2022] the goal was to reach a possibly simple proof while in [Pin2023] to show the strongest possible result both in specific ranges of η < 1/12 and for η → 0. Both proofs were based on Vinogradov’s method and Hal´asz’s idea. However, in the second [Pin2023] it was important to use recent deep results of Heath-Brown [Hea2017], further of Bourgain, Demeter and Guth [BGD2016]. This paper is available on arxiv under CC 4.0 license. Authors: (1) J´anos Pintz, Supported by the National Research Development and Innovation Office, NKFIH, KKP 133819, ELKH Alfr´ed R´enyi Mathematical Institute H-1053 Budapest Realtanoda u. 13–15. Hungary and e-mail: pintz@renyi.hu This paper is available on arxiv under CC 4.0 license. Authors: Authors: (1) J´anos Pintz, Supported by the National Research Development and Innovation Office, NKFIH, KKP 133819, ELKH Alfr´ed R´enyi Mathematical Institute H-1053 Budapest Realtanoda u. 13–15. Hungary and e-mail: pintz@renyi.hu Table of Links 1 2 3 Proof of Theorem 1 References 1 1 2 2 3 Proof of Theorem 1 3 Proof of Theorem 1 References References Keywords and phrases: Riemann’s zeta function, density hypothesis, density theorems. Keywords and phrases: 2020 Mathematics Subject Classification: Primary 11M26, Secondary 11M06. 1 The plausibility of the Riemann Hypothesis (RH) is supported (among others) by results of type (1.1) valid for all σ > 1/2 as T → ∞. (1.1) was first shown by Bohr and Landau in 1914 ([BL1914]). The first estimate of type was shown few years later by Carlson [Car1920] with It was Hoheisel [Hoh1930] who first observed that such estimates lead to arithmetic consequences about the difference of consecutive primes. He proved the first approximation towards the famous conjecture that there exists always a prime between two consecutive squares. This conjecture was characterised by Landau [Lan1913] in his plenary talk at ICM1912 in Cambridge as one of the four main problems of the distribution of primes, besides the Riemann Hypothesis. Hoheisel [Hoh1930] could show (pn denotes the nth prime) In the proof important role was played by Carlson’s density theorem (1.2)– (1.3). Later it was realized that a uniform estimate of the form yields (combined with a slightly better zero-free region than the classical one of de la Vall´ee Poussin) In particular, the best possible estimate A = 2 would almost imply Landau’s conjecture. This is especially remarkable in light of the fact that even assuming the Riemann Hypothesis the best estimate we know is (with C = 2 easily by the Riemann–Von Mangoldt explicit formula, with C = 1 by a deeper argument of Cram´er [Cra1921]). This explains the significance of the Density Hypothesis (DH) which states or, in a slightly weaker form, using the notation (1.2), The Riemann Hypothesis clearly implies the Density Hypothesis. However, Ingham [Ing1937] showed that also the Lindel¨of Hypothesis (LH) (1.10) implies DH. In 1954 Tur´an [Tur1954] used his celebrated power-sum method [Tur1953], [Tur1984] to give a different proof of Ingham’s result that LH implies DH. In the same work he came very close to breaking the DH in the vicinity of the boundary line σ = 1. In the following we will use the notation: His result was with a small constant c1 [Tur1954] or with our new notation It was 16 years later when G. Hal´asz and Tur´an succeeded to break the DH [HT1969], that is, to prove (in the refined form appearing as Theorem 38.2 of Tur´an’s book [Tur1984]) with the notation (1.1)–(1.2), (1.11) The proof was based on (i) Vinogradov’s estimate µ(1 − η) ≪ η 3/2, (ii) Tur´an’s power-sum method; (iii) a simple but ingenious idea of Hal´asz [Hal1968]. Soon after this Bombieri [Bom1971] gave a different proof using ideas from the large sieve coupled with (i) and (iii). Further, Montgomery has shown the DH for σ ≥ 9/10, i.e. η ≤ 1/10 ([Mon1969], [Mon1971]). Using another simple but ingenious idea Huxley [Hux1972] (with a refinement of Montgomery) reached the DH for η ≤ 1/6 and proved that The DH was shown for larger and larger ranges, until improving the result σ > 11/14 of Jutila [Jut1977] Bourgain proved its validity [Bou2000] for Another direction of the research was to give strong density estimates for small values of η (often especially for η → 0). In this direction the most important results were reached (in alphabetical order) by Bourgain, Ford, Heath-Brown, Huxley, Ivic, Jutila and Montgomery. All these results use the large sieve and in some form the mentioned idea of Hal´asz, which needs η ≤ 1/4. This is also the reason that they cannot give improvements of the classical zero-density theorem of Ingham [Ing1940], A(σ) ≤ 3/(2 − σ), which is still the best today in the whole range Recently I gave two alternative variants for proving the DH for small values of η. In [Pin2022] the goal was to reach a possibly simple proof while in [Pin2023] to show the strongest possible result both in specific ranges of η < 1/12 and for η → 0. Both proofs were based on Vinogradov’s method and Hal´asz’s idea. However, in the second [Pin2023] it was important to use recent deep results of Heath-Brown [Hea2017], further of Bourgain, Demeter and Guth [BGD2016].

A Remark on Density Theorems for Riemann’s Zeta-function: 1

Solana has become a significant player in the transforming landscape of blockchain technology and decentralized finance (DeFi). Blockchain developers prefer it for its high performance, scalability, and vibrant ecosystem to build blockchain and crypto solutions. Crypto swapping and staking are crucial crypto solutions that developers build using Solana blockchain development services. They play a pivotal role in supporting and growing the network. Some of the most popular swapping and staking solutions run on the Solana blockchain. Understanding Swapping on Solana Swapping refers to exchanging one cryptocurrency for another, often facilitated by decentralized exchanges (DEXs) or automated market makers (AMMs). Solana's architecture facilitates speed and efficiency, making swapping on this blockchain network a seamless experience. It allows users to exchange one Solana asset for another effortlessly. This tool eliminates the need to create new frameworks or code structures. For instance, users can swap SOL for assets like Ethereum, Bitcoin, stablecoins such as USDC or USDT, or any token within Solana's SPL token program. To initiate a Solana token swap, users can turn to decentralized exchanges (DEX) that operate as automatic market makers (AMMs). Platforms like Raydium, Dexlab, and Mango Markets are popular choices for Solana token swaps. These exchanges leverage Solana's rapid transaction speed to facilitate instantaneous swaps with minimal fees. Overall, Solana's swapping mechanism on DEX platforms empowers users with the flexibility to trade a diverse array of tokens. It contributes to the dynamic DeFi ecosystem thriving on the Solana blockchain. Benefits of Swapping on Solana 1. High Speed Solana's high throughput enables speedy transaction confirmation, allowing for swift swaps. 2. Low Transaction Costs The Solana network boasts significantly lower transaction fees than many other blockchains, making swapping cost-effective. 3. Wide Range of Assets Solana supports diverse tokens, providing ample opportunities for swapping digital assets. 4. Robust Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Solana's ecosystem hosts several decentralized exchanges (DEXs) that operate as automated market makers (AMMs). These platforms, such as Raydium, Serum, and others, leverage Solana's speed and efficiency to offer seamless token swaps with high liquidity. 5. Integrated DeFi Ecosystem Swapping on Solana is not limited to basic token exchanges. The platform's integration with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols allows for advanced trading features, such as liquidity provision, yield farming, impermanent loss protection, and access to various DeFi products and services. 6. Enhanced User Experience Solana's user-friendly interfaces, fast transaction speeds, and low fees create a smooth user trading experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trader, Solana's swapping capabilities are accessible and efficient. 7. Scalability Solana's scalability allows the network to handle a high volume of transactions without compromising speed or efficiency. This scalability is crucial for maintaining optimal trading conditions, especially during increased market activity. Maximizing Returns through Staking on Solana Solana uses a consensus mechanism called Proof of Stake (PoS). Validators run this mechanism to ensure that all transactions are verified and secured. Solana allows individuals or entities, also known as ‘stakers,’ to lock up a certain amount of SOL directly with validators as collateral to support its consensus mechanism. This process is referred to as ‘staking.’ This economic incentive is vital because it enables the establishment of more high-quality validators, which improves the network's security and efficiency. Staking involves locking up your cryptocurrency holdings in a designated wallet to support network operations and validate transactions. In return, stakers earn rewards through additional tokens or transaction fees. Solana offers robust staking mechanisms, allowing users to participate in securing the network while earning passive income. Key Features of Staking on Solana Proof of Stake (PoS) Consensus Solana utilizes a Proof of Stake consensus mechanism, where validators validate transactions and secure the network. Stakers participate by delegating their tokens to validators, contributing to network security and decentralization. High Yield Potential Solana's staking rewards can be lucrative, allowing stakers to earn attractive returns on their holdings. Network Security By staking SOL (Solana's native token) or other compatible assets, participants contribute to the security and decentralization of the Solana blockchain. Flexibility and Accessibility Solana's staking protocols offer flexibility regarding delegation options and withdrawal mechanisms, catering to many staking preferences. Embracing the Future of Finance with Solana As blockchain technology revolutionizes the financial landscape, Solana remains at the forefront of innovation, offering users unparalleled speed, scalability, and DeFi opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned crypto enthusiast or a newcomer exploring the possibilities of decentralized finance, Solana's robust infrastructure and diverse ecosystem provide a solid foundation for your journey into swapping and staking. CoinGecko Research has recognized Solana as the most popular blockchain in 2024. It indeed stands as a testament to its growing influence and adoption in the crypto community. Final Thoughts Swapping and staking are integral to the vibrant Solana ecosystem, empowering users to optimize their crypto holdings, participate in network governance, and earn passive income. By leveraging Solana's advanced blockchain capabilities and embracing the principles of decentralized finance, you can unlock new avenues for financial growth and innovation in the digital asset space. Are you looking for top-notch Solana development services but confused about where to start? Look no further! Connect with our team of expert Solana developers at Oodles Blockchain. This story was distributed under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/ Solana has become a significant player in the transforming landscape of blockchain technology and decentralized finance (DeFi). Blockchain developers prefer it for its high performance, scalability, and vibrant ecosystem to build blockchain and crypto solutions. Crypto swapping and staking are crucial crypto solutions that developers build using Solana blockchain development services . They play a pivotal role in supporting and growing the network. Some of the most popular swapping and staking solutions run on the Solana blockchain. Solana blockchain development services Understanding Swapping on Solana Understanding Swapping on Solana Swapping refers to exchanging one cryptocurrency for another, often facilitated by decentralized exchanges (DEXs) or automated market makers (AMMs). Solana's architecture facilitates speed and efficiency, making swapping on this blockchain network a seamless experience. It allows users to exchange one Solana asset for another effortlessly. This tool eliminates the need to create new frameworks or code structures. For instance, users can swap SOL for assets like Ethereum, Bitcoin, stablecoins such as USDC or USDT, or any token within Solana's SPL token program. To initiate a Solana token swap, users can turn to decentralized exchanges (DEX) that operate as automatic market makers (AMMs). Platforms like Raydium, Dexlab, and Mango Markets are popular choices for Solana token swaps. These exchanges leverage Solana's rapid transaction speed to facilitate instantaneous swaps with minimal fees. Overall, Solana's swapping mechanism on DEX platforms empowers users with the flexibility to trade a diverse array of tokens. It contributes to the dynamic DeFi ecosystem thriving on the Solana blockchain. Benefits of Swapping on Solana 1. High Speed 1. High Speed Solana's high throughput enables speedy transaction confirmation, allowing for swift swaps. 2. Low Transaction Costs 2. Low Transaction Costs The Solana network boasts significantly lower transaction fees than many other blockchains, making swapping cost-effective. 3. Wide Range of Assets 3. Wide Range of Assets Solana supports diverse tokens, providing ample opportunities for swapping digital assets. 4. Robust Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) 4. Robust Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Solana's ecosystem hosts several decentralized exchanges (DEXs) that operate as automated market makers (AMMs). These platforms, such as Raydium, Serum, and others, leverage Solana's speed and efficiency to offer seamless token swaps with high liquidity. 5. Integrated DeFi Ecosystem 5. Integrated DeFi Ecosystem Swapping on Solana is not limited to basic token exchanges. The platform's integration with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols allows for advanced trading features, such as liquidity provision, yield farming, impermanent loss protection, and access to various DeFi products and services. 6. Enhanced User Experience 6. Enhanced User Experience Solana's user-friendly interfaces, fast transaction speeds, and low fees create a smooth user trading experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trader, Solana's swapping capabilities are accessible and efficient. 7. Scalability 7. Scalability Solana's scalability allows the network to handle a high volume of transactions without compromising speed or efficiency. This scalability is crucial for maintaining optimal trading conditions, especially during increased market activity. Maximizing Returns through Staking on Solana Solana uses a consensus mechanism called Proof of Stake (PoS). Validators run this mechanism to ensure that all transactions are verified and secured. Solana allows individuals or entities, also known as ‘stakers,’ to lock up a certain amount of SOL directly with validators as collateral to support its consensus mechanism. This process is referred to as ‘staking.’ This economic incentive is vital because it enables the establishment of more high-quality validators, which improves the network's security and efficiency. Staking involves locking up your cryptocurrency holdings in a designated wallet to support network operations and validate transactions. In return, stakers earn rewards through additional tokens or transaction fees. Solana offers robust staking mechanisms, allowing users to participate in securing the network while earning passive income. Key Features of Staking on Solana Proof of Stake (PoS) Consensus Proof of Stake (PoS) Consensus Solana utilizes a Proof of Stake consensus mechanism, where validators validate transactions and secure the network. Stakers participate by delegating their tokens to validators, contributing to network security and decentralization. High Yield Potential High Yield Potential Solana's staking rewards can be lucrative, allowing stakers to earn attractive returns on their holdings. Network Security Network Security By staking SOL (Solana's native token) or other compatible assets, participants contribute to the security and decentralization of the Solana blockchain. Flexibility and Accessibility Flexibility and Accessibility Solana's staking protocols offer flexibility regarding delegation options and withdrawal mechanisms, catering to many staking preferences. Embracing the Future of Finance with Solana As blockchain technology revolutionizes the financial landscape, Solana remains at the forefront of innovation, offering users unparalleled speed, scalability, and DeFi opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned crypto enthusiast or a newcomer exploring the possibilities of decentralized finance, Solana's robust infrastructure and diverse ecosystem provide a solid foundation for your journey into swapping and staking. CoinGecko Research has recognized Solana as the most popular blockchain in 2024. It indeed stands as a testament to its growing influence and adoption in the crypto community. Final Thoughts Swapping and staking are integral to the vibrant Solana ecosystem, empowering users to optimize their crypto holdings, participate in network governance, and earn passive income. By leveraging Solana's advanced blockchain capabilities and embracing the principles of decentralized finance, you can unlock new avenues for financial growth and innovation in the digital asset space. Are you looking for top-notch Solana development services but confused about where to start? Look no further! Connect with our team of expert Solana developers at Oodles Blockchain. Solana developers This story was distributed under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/ This story was distributed under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/ This story was distributed under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here: https://business.hackernoon.com/ https://business.hackernoon.com/

Unlocking the Power of Swapping and Staking on Solana

সোলানাতে অদলবদল এবং স্টেকিংয়ের পাওয়ার আনলক করা

Die Macht des Swappings und Stakings auf Solana entfesseln

Liberando el poder de intercambiar y apostar en Solana

Libérer le pouvoir de l’échange et du jalonnement sur Solana

सोलाना पर स्वैपिंग और स्टेकिंग की शक्ति को अनलॉक करना

Solanaでスワッピングとステーキングのパワーを解き放つ

솔라나에서 스왑핑과 스테이킹의 힘을 활용해보세요

Desbloqueando o poder de trocar e apostar em Solana

Раскрытие возможностей обмена и ставок на Solana

Solana'da Takas ve Staking Gücünün Kilidini Açmak

Giải phóng sức mạnh của việc hoán đổi và đặt cược trên Solana

释放 Solana 上的兑换和质押功能

ChatGPT 4 is required. In a Hurry? See it in action: Shared ChatGPT session Introduction Running basic scripts with ChatGPT often faces two significant challenges: slow and clunky execution that sometimes fails and output restricted to the code window. This article introduces a technique utilizing AImarkdown Script, which allows you to simulate the execution of basic Python commands without launching the Python compiler, providing beautifully formatted Markdown output instead. Python Screenshot What is AImarkdown Script? AImarkdown Script is a versatile language for creating dynamic interactions with conversational AI platforms like ChatGPT. It empowers users to script interactions, control conversation flow, and customize AI behavior and responses. For programmers, it offers the flexibility of a scripting language; for non-programmers, it provides a user-friendly way to customize and control AI experiences. https://aimarkdown.org Some Changes Required : To run unaltered Python with libraries using ChatGPT's compiler with with Markdown formatted output, see my article: Note Unleashing Python’s Power within ChatGPT - Part One Since AImarkdown Script uses YAML, some Python conversion is required. The character is replaced by . = : Example:
Python: square_root = math.sqrt(user_number) has to be converted to YAML: square_root: math.sqrt(user_number) What Type of Speed Increase Can Be Expected According to ChatGPT: The technique you're discussing leverages AImarkdown Script to simulate the execution of Python commands without actually running the Python interpreter. This approach can significantly reduce response times, especially for basic Python commands. Since it avoids the overhead associated with initializing the Python interpreter and executing code within it, the speed improvement can be substantial. Claiming it's "at least ten times faster" might be accurate for simple operations due to the elimination of execution and initialization delays. The exact speedup will depend on the complexity of the commands and the current load on ChatGPT's systems. For very basic operations, the response is nearly instantaneous, as the simulated outcome is generated by the AI without any actual code execution. How much Python Code Can I Use? According to ChatGPT the following can be used without invoking the Python Compiler. : Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division. Basic Arithmetic Operations : Creating and assigning simple data types like integers and strings. Variable Assignments : , , . Conditional Statements if elif else : Simulated loops for iterating over simple data structures. Basic Loops for : Creation, indexing, slicing. Lists : Creating dictionaries and accessing values by keys. Dictionaries : Concatenation, basic methods like , , . String Operations upper() lower() split() : Simulating the definition and calling of simple functions (without actual execution). Function Definitions : Simulating the effect of importing libraries and calling their functions (e.g., for getting the current date without actual execution). Simple Imports datetime , the simulation of these operations through AImarkdown is conceptual and won't execute real Python code. This method is best suited for demonstrations, educational content, or simple interactive scenarios where the logic doesn't require actual computation or data processing. Remember AImarkdown Script Installation Notes ✅ : Copy and paste code into ChatGPT. ChatGPT 4 ✅ : In , add " ", then copy and paste the entire code. ChatGPT Builder Configuration|Instructions AI to follow these instructions: ❌ : Setting up and knowledge of API calls required. ChatGPT Builder with API Actions Actions Conclusion Say goodbye to the limitations of ChatGPT's Python interpreter. AImarkdown Script brings lightning-fast execution and beautiful output to your basic Python explorations. What will you create with this newfound speed and flexibility? AImarkdown Script Code title: Running Python in ChatGPT  without using ChatGPT's Python interpreter
version: 0.6

# AI To Follow These Instructions and Guidance  (version 2024.01.20.1):
# Overview:  Example for executing instructions without using ChatGPT's Python interpreter

# Document Structure:
# - AImarkdown Script is a combination of YAML and Markdown. https://aimarkdown.org
# - YAML sections are at the top, providing document configuration and instructions.
# - Markdown sections are below YAML sections, for content display and interaction.

# User Welcome Message:
# - Welcome users with only `user_greeting` message at session start.
# - Do not add any elaboration to `user_greeting` message.

# Understanding Placeholders in YAML and Markdown:
# - There are three types of placeholders:
#   1. static_placeholder `[...]`
#   2. dynamic_placeholder `[[...]]`
#   3. executable_placeholder `[[[...]]]`

# YAML Instructions:
# - Comments (`#`) in YAML guide AI's approach to the document.

# Markdown Section Instructions:
# - Markdown start with `:::name_of_section` and end with `:::`.
# - IMPORTANT: Lines with `:::` are separators and must be omitted from the displayed content.

# AI Behavior and Image Creation Policy
image_creation_policy:
  allow_images: false  # Set to 'true' only if images are explicitly requested by the user
  instruction: "Do not create images unless the user specifically requests an image. Any image creation must be a direct response to a user's request for an image."

# AI to simulate running Python statements and commands, without running Python interpreter.
# Define static placeholders and variables
num1: 100
num2: 200
num3: 300
num4: 400
name: Johhny

total = num1 + num2 + num3 + num4

# compare values and set messages
if num1 == num2:
  message1: [num1] is NOT EQUAL to [num2]

if name == Rob:
  message2: Name is indeed Rob

if num4 > num3:
  message3: num4 is GREATER THAN num3
else:
  message3: num4 is NOT GREATER THAN num3

# A list of fruits to work with as an example
fruits: ["apple", "banana", "orange", "kiwi", "mango", "pineapple"]

# AI to pluralize `fruits`.
pluralize_fruits_names: Change each fruit to the plural form.

# Accessing elements
first_fruit: fruits[0])  # Access the first fruit
third_fruit: fruits[2])  # Access the third fruit

# Join the list elements into a sentence using a comma separator and "and" for the last two fruits
fruit_sentence: "Here are the fruits: ".join(fruits[:-1]) + " and " + fruits[-1]

# Find square root of the number the user entered.
import math
square_root: math.sqrt(user_number)

# Welcome user with message then,
# ask for number (`user_number`)
# then run `display_user_summary`.
user_greeting: |
  #### Welcome to: [title].
  Please enter a number between `1` - `10` to run the summary.

# Display summary after user_greeting.
display_user_summary:
  - `user_number` is the number entered in user_greeting.
  - Display Markdown section `user_summary`

# Markdown section
:::user_summary

### 💻 SUMMARY
![](https://cdn.hackernoon.com/images/k2s7svgbhkVZ5UqFBHR7QLwURtJ2-2024-03-13T13:23:52.666Z-prskms3j14v4um99t6rffa1y)
**You entered**: [user_number], square root of [user_number] is [square_root].
`name: [name]`
`num1: [num1]`
`num2: [num2]`
`num3: [num3]`
`num4: [num4]`
`**TOTAL**: [total]`

1. **Message1**: [message1]
1. **Message2**: [message2]
1. **Message3**: [message3]

### Fruits
- Fruit list: [fruits]
- First fruit: [first_fruit]
- Third fruit: [third_fruit]
- [fruit_sentence]
- I like to eat a lot of [pluralize_fruits_names].

::: Also published . here

Enhancing Python Execution in ChatGPT with AImarkdown Script

The New York Times Company v. OpenAI Update Court Filing, retrieved on February 26, 2024 is part of . You can jump to any part in this filing . This part is 13 of 15. HackerNoon’s Legal PDF Series here C. The DMCA Claim Fails for Multiple Independent Reasons Count V is a claim for violation of Section 1202(b) of the Copyright Act, which prohibits the “[r]emoval or [a]lteration” of copyright management information or “CMI.” 17 U.S.C. § 1202(b). Congress passed that provision in the early days of the internet in recognition of the ease with which unauthorized copies of images and other works might proliferate in cyberspace. The provision encourages rightsholders to affix CMI to their works (and prohibits its removal) so that, if their works do proliferate on the internet, the public will be able to trace those works back to their owner. S. Rep. No. 105-190, at 16–17 (1998) (CMI intended to “track[] and monitor[]”). But Congress limited the statute with a “double-scienter requirement” that prevents its application when the CMI removal occurs as an unintended result of an “automatic [] process.” Zuma Press, Inc. v. Getty Images (US), Inc., 845 F. App’x 54, 57–58 (2d Cir. 2021). A typical CMI case might involve the surreptitious removal of a photograph’s “gutter credit” to conceal a failure to seek a license from the rightsholder. Mango v. BuzzFeed, Inc., 970 F.3d 167, 169–70, 173 (2d Cir. 2020). 1. The Times Did Not Specify the CMI at Issue Count V should be dismissed at the outset for failure to specify the CMI at issue. The Complaint’s relevant paragraph fails to state what CMI is included in what work, and simply repeats the statutory text. Compl. ¶ 182 (alleging “one or more forms of [CMI]” and parroting language of Section 1202(c)).[36] The only firm allegation states that the Times placed “copyright notices” and “terms of service” links on “every page of its websites.” Compl. ¶ 125. But, at least for some articles, it did not.[37] And when it did, the information was not “conveyed in connection with” the works, 17 U.S.C. § 1202(c) (defining CMI), but hidden in small text at the bottom of the page.[38] Judge Orrick of the Northern District of California rejected similar allegations as deficient in another recent AI case. Andersen v. Stability AI Ltd., No. 23-cv-00201, 2023 WL 7132064, at *11 (N.D. Cal. Oct. 30, 2023) (must plead “exact type of CMI included in [each] work”).[39] 2. The Training-Based Section 1202 Claim Fails The first Section 1202 violation alleged in the Complaint asserts that OpenAI “removed” CMI “in building the training datasets” in violation of Section 1202(b)(1) of the DMCA. Compl. ¶ 184. As a preliminary matter, to the extent this claim is based on the “building [of] training datasets” that occurred more than three years ago, it is time-barred. 17 U.S.C. § 507(b). The Complaint also fails to plausibly allege that any CMI was removed. The Times advances three theories of removal: (1) removal of CMI when OpenAI allegedly “scraped” articles from the Times’s website; (2) removal of CMI “from third-party datasets,” i.e., Common Crawl; and (3) removal of CMI during “the training process,” which the Times alleges “does not preserve any [CMI]” “by design.” Compl. ¶¶ 184, 187. As a preliminary matter, each theory fails for failure to allege what CMI was removed or “not preserve[d],” which is particularly damning as the Times concedes that some CMI was preserved.[40] Judge Martínez-Olguín of the Northern District of California recently held an identical set of allegations to be insufficient. See Tremblay v. OpenAI, Inc., No. 3:23-cv-03416, 2024 WL 557720, at *4 (N.D. Cal. Feb. 12, 2024) (allegation that “training process does not preserve any CMI” “by design” was “conclusory”). Each theory fails separately as well. The first theory fails because, while the Times states that OpenAI “scraped” its articles “directly from [its] websites,” none of the specific allegations actually suggest OpenAI designed its alleged “scrap[ing]” process to omit CMI. Compl. ¶ 184.[41] And the only allegations about OpenAI “scraping” articles from Times websites relate to the creation of WebText, which occurred over three years before this lawsuit. Supra Section IV.A.[42] The second theory fails because the Complaint lacks allegations about the inclusion (or exclusion) of the Times’s CMI in any “third-party datasets” like Common Crawl,[43] much less about OpenAI scrubbing any CMI from those datasets. First Nationwide Bank v. Gelt Funding Corp., 27 F.3d 763, 771 (2d Cir. 1994) (courts ignore “unwarranted deductions of fact”). And the third theory fails because there is no allegation in the Complaint supporting the conclusion that the “training process” excludes CMI “[b]y design.” Compl. ¶ 187; see also Tremblay, 2024 WL 557720, at *4. Moreover, the Times fails to allege facts that could show how the alleged CMI removal could “induce, enable, facilitate, or conceal an infringement” of copyright—much less how OpenAI could have “reasonable grounds to know” it would. 17 U.S.C. § 1202(b). The “point of CMI” is to provide information to “the public,” not to govern purely internal databases. Roberts v. BroadwayHD LLC, 518 F. Supp. 3d 719, 737 (S.D.N.Y. 2021); Compl. ¶ 59. As Judge Martínez-Olguín explained, it is far from obvious how “the alleged removal of CMI in an internal database [could] enable infringement.” Tremblay, 2024 WL 557720, at *4 (dismissing claim).[44] 3. The Output-Based Section 1202 Claim Fails The second category of Section 1202 violation in the Complaint alleges that (1) OpenAI violated Section 1202(b)(1)’s removal prohibition by failing to include the Times’s CMI in model outputs, Compl. ¶¶ 185–86; and (2) by displaying those outputs via ChatGPT or its API, OpenAI violated Section 1202(b)(3)’s prohibition on “distribut[ing]” works “knowing that [CMI] has been removed,” Compl. ¶ 189. Neither theory states a claim for relief. As a preliminary matter, the Times’s Section 1202(b)(3) claim fails because the Complaint does not allege that OpenAI “distribute[d]” any outputs. In this context, “distribution” requires a “sale or transfer of ownership extending beyond that of a mere public display.” Wright v. Miah, No. 22-cv-4132, 2023 WL 6219435, at *7 (E.D.N.Y. Sept. 7, 2023) (emphasis added).[45] But “mere public display” of outputs is all the Complaint alleges. See, e.g., Compl. ¶ 102. Regardless, this “output” theory fails because the outputs alleged in the Complaint are not wholesale copies of entire Times articles. They are, at best, reproductions of excerpts of those articles, some of which are little more than collections of scattered sentences. Supra 12. If the absence of CMI from such excerpts constituted a “removal” of that CMI, then DMCA liability would attach to any journalist who used a block quote in a book review without also including extensive information about the book’s publisher, terms and conditions, and original copyright notice. See supra note 22 (example of the Times including 200-word block quote in book review). To avoid such anomalous results, courts have cabined applications of Section 1202(b)(1) and (3) to circumstances in which the works in question were “substantially or entirely reproduced.” Fischer v. Forrest, 286 F. Supp. 3d 590, 609 (S.D.N.Y. 2018). As such, failure to include original CMI in anything less than an identical reproduction of all (or almost all) of the work does not qualify as CMI removal. Tremblay, 2024 WL 557720, at *5 (dismissing claim because “Plaintiffs have not alleged that [OpenAI] distributed their books or copies of [them]”).[46] As the Times has not alleged that OpenAI reproduced entire articles, the output-based claim fails. Even setting that aside, the Times’s output-based CMI claim fails for the independent reason that there was no CMI to remove from the relevant text. The Exhibit J outputs, for example, feature text from the middle of articles. Ex. J. at 2–126. As shown in the exhibit, the “Actual text from NYTimes” contains no information that could qualify as CMI. See, e.g., id. at 3; 17 U.S.C. § 1202(c) (defining CMI). So too for the ChatGPT outputs featured in the Complaint, which request the “first [and subsequent] paragraph[s]” from Times articles. See, e.g., Compl. ¶¶ 104, 106, 118, 121. None of those “paragraphs” contains any CMI that OpenAI could have “removed.” 4. The Times Fails to Allege a CMI-Based Injury Count V separately fails for lack of standing. “[T]o have standing” to sue for a DMCA violation, the Times “must show that [it] was injured by that violation.” Steele v. Bongiovi, 784 F. Supp. 2d 94, 97–98 (D. Mass. 2011); see also 17 U.S.C. § 1203(a). Here, the Complaint’s “Harm to the Times” section relates entirely to its inability to receive speculative licensing revenue, see Compl. ¶¶ 155–56, and the possibility that ChatGPT will “divert readers,” see id. ¶ 157. Neither injury has any nexus to CMI. Nor is there any imaginable harm here: because all of the Complaint’s outputs were either generated using the original Times article itself, see Ex. J, or referenced the Times by name, see, e.g., Compl. ¶ 104, any user who encountered those outputs would have no doubt as to the provenance of the text and could easily find it on the Times’s website (as ChatGPT often invites them to do, see id. ¶¶ 106, 134). Cf. Kelly, 77 F. Supp. 2d at 1122 (DMCA claim failed because users who encounter images are “given the name of the Web site from which Defendant obtained the image, where any associated [CMI] would be available”). Continue Reading . Here [36] Design Pics Inc. v. PBH Network, Inc., No. 20-cv-1096, 2020 WL 8413512, at *4 (E.D.N.Y. Oct. 27, 2020) (dismissing CMI claim based on “conclusory, boilerplate parroting of the statutory text”). [37] See, e.g., John Branch, Snow Fall: The Avalanche at Tunnel Creek, N.Y. Times, https://www.nytimes.com/projects/2012/snow-fall/index.html#/?part=tunnel-creek (last accessed Feb. 11, 2024); see also Compl. ¶¶ 104–05 & n.28 (citing this article). [38] See, e.g., Pete Wells, As Not Seen on TV, N.Y. Times (Nov. 13, 2012), https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/14/dining/reviews/restaurant-review-guys-american-kitchen-bar-in-timessquare.html; see also Compl. ¶¶ 106–07 & n.29 (citing and quoting this article). [39] See also Wood v. Observer Holdings, LLC, No. 20-cv-07878, 2021 WL 2874100, at *8 (S.D.N.Y., July 8, 2021) (terms on “separate website” not CMI); GC2 Incorporated v. Int’l Game Tech. PLC, 255 F. Supp. 3d 812, 821–22 (N.D. Ill. 2017) (“terms of use notice near a copyrighted work” not “conveyed in connection with” work). [40] See, e.g., Compl. ¶ 106 (ChatGPT responding to query naming “Pete Wells” with a completion correctly identifying the publication date of Wells’ article); see also id. ¶ 104 (same, for title). [41] Kelly v. Arriba Soft Corp., 77 F. Supp. 2d 1116, 1122 (C.D. Cal. 1999), rev'd on other grounds by 336 F.3d 811 (9th Cir. 2003) (no Section 1202 liability vs. search engine “crawler [that] did not include [CMI]”). [42] The Times suggests that OpenAI’s “Browse with Bing” feature “scrap[es] Times Works from The Times’s websites,” Compl. ¶ 185, but the Complaint does not include a single allegation supporting that conclusion, see supra 13 & n.32 (noting that Browse with Bing fetched content from third-party sites, not the Times’s website). [43] OpenAI cannot have removed CMI from datasets that “contained no such [CMI]” in the first place. McGucken v. Shutterstock, Inc., No. 22-cv-00905, 2023 WL 6390530, at 11 (S.D.N.Y. Oct. 2, 2023) (rejecting DMCA claim). [44] See Victor Elias Photography, LLC v. Ice Portal, Inc., 43 F.4th 1313, 1325 (11th Cir. 2022) (requiring “some identifiable connection between the defendant’s actions and the infringement or the likelihood of infringement.”). [45] Id. at *10 (endorsing Section 1202(b)(3) claim where defendant distributed artwork on Etsy); MyPlayCity, Inc. v. Conduit Ltd., No. 10-cv-1615, 2012 WL 1107648, at *12 (S.D.N.Y. Mar. 30, 2012) (“distribution” means “actual dissemination of copies”); FurnitureDealer.Net, Inc v. Amazon.com, Inc, No. 18-cv-232, 2022 WL 891473, at *23 (D. Minn. Mar. 25, 2022) (“[P]ublic display does not constitute distribution, and thus is not a [DMCA] violation.”). [46] See also Doe 1 v. GitHub, Inc., No. 22-cv-06823, 2024 WL 235217, *9 (N.D. Cal. Jan. 22, 2024) (dismissing Section 1202(b) claim against OpenAI because outputs were “not identical” to originals); A’Lor Int’l, Ltd. v. Tapper Fine Jewelry, Inc., No. 12-cv-02215, 2012 WL 12921035, at *10 (C.D. Cal. Aug. 8, 2012) (“the plain language of the statute encompasses only removal and alteration;” does not “include [mere] omissions”); Faulkner Press, L.L.C. v. Class Notes, L.L.C., 756 F. Supp. 2d 1352, 1358–59 (N.D. Fla. 2010) (rejecting claim where “word for word” text was “copied into a different form and [] incorporated into” commercial materials); Kelly, 77 F. Supp. 2d at 1121–22 (“displaying thumbnails of Plaintiffs’ images without [] the corresponding [CMI]” was not CMI “removal”). About HackerNoon Legal PDF Series: We bring you the most important technical and insightful public domain court case filings. This court case retrieved on February 26, 2024, from is part of the public domain. The court-created documents are works of the federal government, and under copyright law, are automatically placed in the public domain and may be shared without legal restriction. fingfx.thomsonreuters.com

ChatGPT Never Produced "Wholesale Copies" of NYT's Articles

This paper is available on arxiv under CC 4.0 license. Authors: (1) Samie Mostafavi, ssmos, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (2) Vishnu Narayanan Moothedath, vnmo, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (3) Stefan Ronngren, steron, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (4) Neelabhro Roy, §nroy, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (5) Gourav Prateek Sharma, gpsharma, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (6) Sangwon Seo, sangwona, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (7) Manuel Olgu´ın Munoz, manual@olguinmunoz.xyz, KTH Royal Institute of Technology; (8) James Gross, jamesgr, KTH Royal Institute of Technology. Table of Links Abstract & Introduction Testbed Design and Architecture Experimental Testbed Validation Supported Experimentation Acknowledgements & References II. TESTBED DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE The ExPECA testbed is designed to address two primary challenges pervasive in edge computing research: 1) endto-end experimentation, 2) ensuring repeatability and reproducibility. To enable end-to-end edge computing experiments that encompass both communication and computation aspects, ExPECA is engineered with the following primary goals: Provision communication components by utilizing a diverse array of wireless and wired links. 2) Executing and overseeing computational elements within containerized environments running on the testbed infrastructure. These objectives are realized through an architectural framework depicted in Figure 1. Central to this architecture is a versatile network fabric that ensures IP connectivity among different experimental components, which may include servers located in the cloud or at the edge, as well as wireless terminals. Distinctive design choices have been made to realize these objectives, distinguishing ExPECA from contemporary solutions. We here describe these choices and their impacts. A. Location and Physical Environment The testbed is located in KTH R1 hall, an experimental facility 25 meters below ground. This isolated location offers a controlled environment with minimal radio interference, making it ideal for running reproducible wireless experiments. With dimensions of 12 meters in width, 24 meters in length, and 12 meters in height, the facility is spacious enough to accommodate a variety of remotely controlled devices, such as drones and cars, providing researchers with considerable freedom in designing their experiments. B. Control and Management Software We adopted CHI-in-a-Box as a baseline testbed implementation with extensions and contributions from our team. CHI-in-a-Box is a packaging of the CHameleon Infrastructure (CHI) software framework which is built primarily on top of the mainstream open-source OpenStack platform. CHI has mature support for edge-to-cloud provisioning of compute, storage, and network fabrics, and provides end-to-end experiment control and user services. Specifically, we leverage the CHI@Edge flavor of the framework, a novel version that supports running containerized workloads on compute resources. In the following, we describe the essential elements of CHI. Users have the flexibility to allocate resources either on-the-fly or through advance reservations, facilitated by customized versions of OpenStack’s Blazar and Doni services. These services have been tailored by the ExPECA team to include unique features such as radio and Kubernetes node reservations. The scope of allocatable resources encompasses worker nodes, radios, networks, and IP addresses. Once resources are secured, the integrated Kubernetes orchestration system enables the deployment of containerized workloads via OpenStack Zun. Users have the option to utilize preconfigured Docker images supplied by the ExPECA team (as in the case of SDR RAN) or to upload their own container images. Notably, the ExPECA team has extensively modified Zun to support functionalities like network interface and block storage attachments to K8S containers, features not originally supported in CHI@Edge. Configuration of complex experiment topologies such as distributed networking experiments is supported through CHI’s programmable interface and our adopted flavor of the python-chi Python library. In addition to these, OpenStack Neutron plays a pivotal role in managing the network architecture. Neutron provides a robust set of networking capabilities, including virtual networking, that allows for the creation of isolated networks, subnets, and routers. We connect all testbed components, including radios, to managed Layer 2 switches controlled by Neutron. C. Radio Nodes One of the standout features of ExPECA is the inclusion of wireless terminals as reservable resources. These radios are mounted at diverse locations in R1, at three different levels, as shown in Figure 3. They are categorized into two types: SDR Nodes: These can serve as the air interface for any wireless protocol implemented for USRP E320 SDRs, including OpenAirInterface (OAI) 5G, OAI LTE, SRS LTE, Mangocomm IEEE802.11b/g, or any GNU radiobased wireless protocol. 2) COTS Radios: Includes an Ericsson private 5G system with radio dots and Advantech routers serving as 4G/5G COTS UE nodes. We chose all radios, specifically SDRs, to be equipped with IP-networked interfaces. This allowed us to enroll them as network segments in Openstack Blazar and Doni with minimal extension efforts. The users can easily integrate them into any workload container or SDR host container, through the testbed software. For example, researchers can seamlessly transition from a high-quality 5G link between locations sdr-01 and sdr-06 to a poor-quality channel between sdr-09 and sdr-07, enabling them to empirically assess the impact on application performance. Alternatively, they can switch to a WiFi link between sdr-01 and sdr-06 for further experimentation. D. Compute Nodes ExPECA offers compute resources by allowing users run containerized applications with the most recent version of Openstack Zun that uses K8S (Kubernetes) as the orchestration layer. K8S is designed to handle a large number of containers across a variety of environments, making it well-suited for complex, large-scale deployments. Also, it offers a rich set of APIs and a pluggable architecture, allowing for greater customization and extensibility. This was particularly useful for our team when developing new desired features in Zun. These new features include 1) network attachment, 2) block storage attachment, 3) resource management i.e. specifying the number of cores and memory size for the container. Users are able to run their containerized applications on ExPECA’s Intel x86 servers, enrolled in the K8S cluster, which we refer to as ’workers’, not only to deploy and orchestrate application workloads, but also to deploy SDR communication stacks or apply radio node configurations. With the advent of Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) and SDRs, all components of the wireless network stack can run on general-purpose processors. They can thus be containerized and distributed across multiple hosts as long as the containers are connected to the SDRs. We provide reference container images for SDR 5G, SDR LTE, and WiFi provisioning. Lastly, it is important to note that all worker nodes achieve sub-µs synchronization by exchanging PTP messages with a Grandmaster (GM) clock that itself uses GPS as a reference. Tight time synchronization is essential for users who require the same timing reference to timestamp packets across various locations within the testbed.

ExPECA: An Experimental Platform: Testbed Design and Architecture

After hitting historical highs, the total cryptocurrency market shrank by in 2022, leading to widespread pessimism. $1.4 trillion In a show of resilience, the market started recovering in 2023. Bitcoin went from $16k to $44k, rising 175% in value. Meanwhile, Ether almost doubled in value from $1.2k to $2.2k. For context, , the S&P 500’s 18%, and gold’s only 12%. NASDAQ’s gains were 44% Optimism and belief now dominate the crypto industry, and . In this article, I’ll go over 13 reasons why crypto enthusiasts expect a new bull market this year. many are tipping 2024 as the year crypto reaches new all-time highs ⚠️ The information presented in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice, and you should not make investment decisions based solely on the content provided. Always conduct your own research and consider consulting with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment choices. Financial Advice Disclaimer: Past performance is not indicative of future results, and there is a risk of financial loss. The author and website do not assume any responsibility for actions taken by readers based on the information herein. ⚠️ Please, read the full financial advice disclaimer at the end of this article. 1. The Crypto Crooks Are All in Jail 2023 saw a flurry of high-profile arrests for crypto scams and fraud. Most notably, (SBF), the co-founder of FTX, was convicted on seven counts of fraud and conspiracy. Sam Bankman-Fried SBF and his executives defrauded investors of billions of dollars by diverting FTX customers’ funds to their crypto trading firm, Alameda Research. He faces up to 110 years in jail. Here are some other high-profile cases that took place in 2023: was accused of commodities manipulation and wire fraud for deploying a fraudulent trading strategy against Mango Markets, a Solana-based decentralized exchange (DEX). Avi Eisenberg , founder of Terra, was charged with orchestrating a multi-billion dollar securities fraud for misleading investors about the stability of TerraUSD. Do Kwon and three of his crypto entities — Hex, PulseChain, and PulseX — were charged with conducting unregistered offerings of crypto asset securities. He was also charged with fraud for spending invertors’ funds. Richard Heart , founder of Tron, was charged by the SEC for engaging in market manipulation and the unregistered offer and sale of securities. Justin Sun , founder and former CEO of the cryptocurrency lender Celsius Network, was charged with seven criminal counts, including securities fraud, commodities fraud, and wire fraud. Alex Mashinsky The industry is much cleaner now, paving the way to slowly earn back the trust of mainstream users. 2. Blockchain Infrastructure Is Becoming More Scalable In 2023, Ethereum completed the Merge, upgrading from proof-of-work (PoW) to proof-of-stake (PoS). This has made the network much more scalable — but it’s not enough. To further increase scalability, developers have built several , including: on-chain and off-chain scalability solutions Sidechains (e.g., Gnosis Chain) State channels (e.g., Raiden Network) Optimistic rollups (e.g., Optimism) Zero-knowledge (ZK) rollups (e.g., zkSync) Validium chains and shards (e.g.,  the zkPorter root) All these are basically secondary chains built on top of Ethereum and connected to it by interoperability protocols and bridges (which are getting better and safer, too). Many of these projects have been live and growing in usage for a long time. This has allowed the technology to mature and improve. In addition, projects like Optimism have released tools to make it easier to develop new scaling solutions. Two projects I’m particularly excited about are Zircuit — a game-changing launched this year — and LayerZero — an that just rolled out v2. EVM-compatible ZK-rollup omnichain messaging protocol If a developer isn’t satisfied with a chain’s scalability, they can easily build on a more scalable one or even launch an app-specific chain at a low cost, while still benefiting from Ethereum’s security guarantees. For users, , which are all crucial for mainstream adoption. more scalability means faster transaction processing, lower fees, and improved user experience (UX) 3. Blockchain Innovation Is Accelerating Blockchain (like any other technology) started off slow and dealt with initial resistance. Now, it has gained momentum and is starting to pick up speed. The technology has matured, and several solutions that make it easier to create and innovate were launched. For example, ZK rollups add privacy to the blockchain and are very secure and scalable, but they’re notoriously complex to implement. Thanks to the unprecedented work of various projects, ZK-proofs are now widely adopted, taking the crown as the biggest trend in the blockchain industry in 2023. And, according to , in 2024, they’re “poised to redefine security and privacy paradigms, offering unparalleled solutions to emerging challenges.” Cryptomeria Capital’s Zero Knowledge Report This is just example. Several other innovations keep popping up, paving the way for widespread adoption. one 4. The Web3 Developer Community Is Alive and Kicking Despite the bear market, the Web3 developer community is still alive and kicking. This is one of the most important factors contributing to a possible bull market in 2024 — the developer community is Web3’s greatest asset, after all. Everything blockchain and crypto is built by developers. Having a vibrant community is crucial to keep the ball rolling. I’ve been listening to Leonardo Sousa’s podcast “Messing with Web3”, and the developer conference he attended was full of energy. Besides, if you follow sources like CoinDesk and Cointelegraph, you’ll see new projects or updates to established projects popping up . daily In the words of Eat the Blocks founder, Julien, “Builders are more optimistic than ever and this is a very important sign.” 5. We’ve Seen Major Improvements in Developer Tooling As mentioned, we’ve seen major improvements in developer tooling in 2023. Notable examples include: Modern smart contract frameworks like Foundry Blockchain APIs like QuickNode Leading rollup development frameworks like Optimism’s Bedrock It’s becoming increasingly easy and quick to build blockchain applications. This . promotes innovation, attracts more developers, boosts interoperability, and contributes to cost efficiency 6. Smart Contract Security Is Growing Fast The crypto world has been dealing with hacks since the beginning, especially with smart contracts. Hackers have taken billions from DeFi projects, but the community is fighting back, and the field of smart contract security is growing . fast Nowadays, there's a lively community of smart contract auditors making good money to check for security issues. It used to be only big firms doing this, but now we're seeing more solo auditors, thanks to crypto bug bounty platforms like Immunefi and HackenProof. With so many eyes looking for problems, . This is a key step to earn the trust of Web2 businesses and users. the future of crypto is expected to be way safer 7. User Experience Keeps Improving Security is very important, but it’s not enough. User experience (UX) is another critical driver for adoption and engagement. Users don’t want to put in the effort to understand concepts like cross-chain compatibility and cryptographic keys — effective design simplifies usage. Conversely, poor UX leads to costly mistakes like losing tokens, and increases the need for user support, leading to user loss and low engagement. Well-designed platforms are key to building trust, especially considering the anonymous nature of blockchain transactions. As the blockchain space gets populated, good UX can be a crucial differentiator, attracting and retaining more users. Similarly, blockchain solutions can only compete with existing services, such as finance, social media, and supply management apps, with seamless UX and a familiar interface. The UX of dapps used to be terrible, but it has (thankfully) come a long way. For example, now offer a much smoother experience, making it easier for non-techies to participate in Web3. crypto wallets Another example is Immutable’s “Passport.” It allows users to log in to games via a single sign-on process rather than by connecting their wallets. This abstracts blockchain interaction, making logging in more familiar. This increased simplicity could allow a blockchain-based game to be a mainstream hit for the first time. 8. The Blockchain User Base Is Growing (Modestly) Adoption is a crucial metric; after all, the purpose of building crypto infrastructure is to support the development of dapps and a substantial number of users. Better security, improved user experience, and lower fees should attract a larger user base. However, despite some progress, adoption is still somewhat low. While this is my weakest argument for a potential crypto bull market in 2024, there’s been some progress. Notably, this year, we've seen traction in decentralized social media platforms like Lens. Besides, the landscape of Web3 games is super dynamic, with numerous new games being released and a few major ones in progress. According to , “blockchain gaming will see at least one title surpass 1 million+ daily active users” this year, with the most likely candidates being the games IMX and Immutable are launching in 2024. VanEck’s 2024 crypto predictions 9. TradFi and Fintech Are Onboarding the Crypto Train (Tchoo, Tchoo!) The most notable example of a fintech company embracing crypto is PayPal. It holds a 42% share of the online payment market and has allowed merchants to accept crypto payments since October 2020. In August 2023, PayPal made its second move into the crypto space by . It also introduced a crypto wire feature, enabling users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies. launching its own stablecoin Considering PayPal is the preferred payment method for most online merchants and a pivotal player in the eCommerce landscape, this development is monumental. PayPal embracing crypto opens up new possibilities and opportunities for the broader adoption of digital currencies in online transactions by . increasing accessibility, credibility, liquidity, and mainstream awareness Besides, the involvement of a major player may encourage regulators to develop clearer and more favorable regulations for the crypto industry. 10. Interest Rate Cuts Are on the Horizon This is the most important reason of all. You see, cryptocurrency is correlated to the stock market, which is heavily influenced by interest rates. Central banks have been to tame inflation. According to , since inflation has cooled down throughout 2023. raising interest rates since late 2021 Reuters most major developed economies have now decided to put a stop to aggressive rate hikes To ensure a soft landing rather than a recession, some Fed officials believe slashing interest rates will be in the cards next year. In fact, they expect 75 basis points of rate reductions throughout 2024. The European Central Bank is also likely to begin cutting rates as early as June 2024. has also backed these forecasts putting forward that “economists at Bank of America forecast 152 interest rate cuts from global central banks in 2024.” Business Insider Meanwhile, that “it’s not just the Fed that's pausing and maybe easing. I think a lot of the G4 central banks are in this mood to just make things a little bit easier.” JPMorgan's Phil Camporeale told CNBC When interest rates decrease, more capital becomes available, leading to a flourishing stock market. This positive correlation , potentially triggering a new bull market. extends to the crypto market 11. We’re Already Witnessing a Bullish Trend in the Crypto Market In 2023, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and several altcoins rose in value. The NFT market is also starting to recover. According to , “November saw a notable surge in NFT trading volume, nearing the $1 billion mark.” In addition to an increase in volume, the average transaction value of NFTs grew by 114%. Coin Market Cap These are very positive signs, but can this bullish trend be temporary? Well, it can. However, we haven’t seen these gains in a long time, and several other factors (listed in this article) strengthen the case for a 2024 bull market. WAGMI. 12. Crypto ETFs Are Coming Experts have been talking about crypto ETFs for years, but they might actually become a reality this time. BlackRock has officially filed for an . Of course, the SEC is trying to get in the way, but, as the world's largest asset manager, BlackRock actually stands a chance of winning against the SEC. Ethereum ETF and a Bitcoin ETF This is significant because it has the potential to open the floodgates. You see, a substantial amount of boomer money is tied up in pension funds, which are restricted to investing in stocks. A cryptocurrency ETF is technically a stock, even if the money ends up in crypto assets. Once crypto ETFs get the green light, pension funds will be able to diversify into the cryptocurrency market. To put it in perspective, at the time of writing, the entire crypto market is valued at , while an estimated was invested in pension funds as of 2021. $1.64 trillion $60.6 trillion The approval of crypto ETFs could trigger a massive inflow of capital into the cryptocurrency market. 13. The Fourth Bitcoin Halving Is Expected to Happen in April Halving is a programmed Bitcoin feature that happens , or roughly every four years. The next halving is expected to happen in April 2024 when the block height reaches 840,000. every 210,000 blocks Bitcoin halving . This has historically triggered a new bull market. reduces mining rewards by half, limits new Bitcoin creation, and curbs inflation, increasing the value of existing coins Is a Crypto Bull Market Really Coming in 2024? While institutional adoption of crypto may not be what early blockchain enthusiasts envisioned, it has the potential to propel the technology into the mainstream and drive new record highs in the crypto market. Personally, I’m bullish on crypto. I’ll invest in Bitcoin (and maybe Solana) for the first time, and continue exploring crypto and blockchain. In 2024, I’m looking forward to getting more involved in the world of , both personally and professionally. Web3 Still, remember that no one can predict the future, and past performance isn’t indicative of future results — please, read the full financial advice disclaimer below. ⚠️ Financial Advice Disclaimer The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as financial advice, and you should not consider it as such. The content is based on the author's opinion and research, and market conditions may change. Before making any investment decisions, you should conduct thorough research and, if necessary, consult with a qualified financial advisor. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and there is no guarantee that the predictions in this blog post will materialize or be suitable for your individual circumstances. Investing in cryptocurrencies and financial markets involves risk, and you should be aware of the potential for both gains and losses. Always do your due diligence and carefully consider your risk tolerance before making any investment decisions. The author and the website are not responsible for any actions you take based on the information provided in this blog post. You are solely responsible for your own financial decisions, and the author and website disclaim any liability for any financial loss or damage incurred as a result of the use of information from this blog post.

The Next Crypto Bull Market May Come in 2024: 13 Reasons Why

416 Stories To Learn About Crypto Trading

As a founder, the last thing you want to do is keyword research and content optimisation. You’d rather be building and shipping your product. In this post, I’ll share a simple SEO strategy called the Keyword Golden Ratio (KGR) that can help you gain authority fast without complex tools or spending big bucks. Why SEO Matters for Founders As a founder your goal is to build authority in your industry. You want to be seen as a leader and expert. SEO helps with that. It shows you know your stuff and gains you organic traffic. More authority means more trust from potential customers. It also helps justify higher pricing down the line and reduces customer churn. Basically, SEO provides fuel for future growth. And you don’t need fancy tools. Free plans on Mangools or LowFruits work fine when starting out. Understanding KGR for Founder SEO KGR stands for Keyword Golden Ratio. It helps you find underserved keywords that you can target easily. Popularised over 10 years ago by Doug Cunnington. The logic is simple — take any keyword and divide the monthly search volume by the number of Google search results. Understanding the Role of the Keyword Golden Ratio (KGR) in Creating Content When you use the KGR, you typically focus on long-tail keywords (phrases with 3+ words) that have a moderate search volume (less than 250 per month) and minimal existing content targeting the exact phrase. The KGR score helps predict the likelihood of a blog post or other content types quickly climbing search rankings. This approach is particularly advantageous for new websites with limited traffic. Crafting a high-quality blog post around a KGR-friendly keyword can lead to quick ranking, often within a few days, bringing immediate organic traffic to your post. Where to look up keyword monthly search volume? I use Mangools. They have a free plan. You can use UberSuggest, lowfruits.io or any other tool you fancy. You want that ratio to be 0.25 or less. The lower the better. For example- “founder productivity tips” Google Results: 389 Search Volume: 110 Ratio = 110 / 389 = 0.28 That’s a bit high. The goal is to find keywords very low competition. Just ask questions people would search instead of broad keywords. Now How Do You Actually Find Good Keywords? Simply brainstorm topics related to your product or service. Similar to “zero search volume” content. What would people be searching for? problem Next go to your keyword tool of choice. Under the volume filter 1–100 and difficulty 0–35. Scan through and look for promising questions and phrases. No more than a few minutes. Lastly, run potentials through the KGR formula using “allintitle:” in Google. Zero in on ones ≤ 0.25. We’ve got a good one… Turn that into a blog post right away. Yes — in a few hours you can rank and drive real traffic to your site by publishing helpful information. Rinse and repeat. Over time you build authority through an expanding content base. And have real data to improve upon vs guesses. Patience pays here. What’s next? SEO for founders doesn’t need to be complicated. The KGR method let’s you start simple and be effective. Gaining authority through search is crucial for any new business. Doing SEO the right way takes time but builds real long-term value. Also published . here

SEO for Founders - A golden WHAT?

I have always maintained that DeFi is in its experimental phase. Thus, when DeFi fanatics try to compare finance with TradFi, it translates as outright ignorance to me. Essentially, the purpose of my preamble is to highlight the inherent risks present in the ecosystem, pointing to the long and tortuous journey ahead of us if we must get things right, much less engage in comparisons. blockchain Because two truths can co-exist, DeFi has come a long way. Since my arrival here, I have witnessed the highs and lows of the growing industry. While my participation was limited, my first watershed moment coincided with the 2021 bull run, when meme coins went crazy, by the first dog-themed token, Dogecoin. And the heartbreaking moments reflected in periods I lost money trading futures and, particularly, losing four figures during the Nomad cross-chain bridge . Every other exploit and hack the industry has witnessed, I either observed on the streets of Crypto Twitter (now Crypto X) or crypto media platforms like CoinTelegraph, but not as a victim. led exploit Yet, it leaves me no choice (then and now) but to acknowledge that security is a missing catalyst to DeFi's 100x adoption. Hence, this piece focuses on the ZkOracle primitive and its key role in securing DeFi and restoring its declining goodwill. What are ZkOracles? TLDR: ZkOracles are blockchain oracles that leverage zkSNARKs and Zkproofs to trustlessly transmit data on-chain while ensuring privacy, security,, and cost-efficiency. ZkOracles, known as zero-knowledge oracles, are an offshoot of blockchain oracles. Blockchain networks rely on oracles to access and import data from the real world. Such data could range from asset prices and weather information for insurance claims to IoT sensors for tracking goods in the supply chain and events in prediction markets. In relation to DeFi, oracles have been most useful in the lending realm. Smart contracts play a key role in automating operations within lending protocols. However, smart contracts operate as a siloed and deterministic entity and are unable to integrate external or off-chain data by themselves, especially when this is important to executing instructions they are embedded with. For example, in prediction markets, smart contracts could not determine the winner of a prediction based on an event without leveraging an oracle that reports the outcome. But how do Zkoracles work? Zkoracles improve on the inefficiencies of traditional blockchain oracles— some of which have affected DeFi in its entirety, contributing to an adoption blight. But one inefficiency that resonates more among these is security. According to , most exploits across the DeFi ecosystem have resulted from oracle manipulation risks, pointing to the vulnerabilities inherent in traditional oracles. Chainalysis In 2022, oracle manipulation exploits for over $400 million in stolen cryptocurrencies. The Mango Market in late 2022 perfectly describes how traditional oracles could be manipulated by hackers for personal gain. Avraham Eisenberg, the black hat hacker, had manipulated the price of $MNGO, the native token of the Solana-based DEX and lending protocol, using his profit (from the short-lived inflated Mango price) as a collateral to obtain a loan valued at $116 million. accounted exploit While the oracles Mango Market ($MNGO's price was transmitted to the protocol using the moving average of centralized exchange price feeds) functioned accurately, they were easily manipulable due to their centralized status. $MNGO's low liquidity equally contributed to enabling the manipulation as a relatively minimal amount was used to inflate its price. Although some lending protocols avoid listing assets with low liquidity, this is contrary to the essence of decentralized lending— part of which aims to enable the collateralization of long-tail assets. How ZkOracles Work in DeFi Lending Lending protocols rely on oracles to calculate collateral value, borrowing limits, interest rates, etc— all of which are important for the proper functioning of the lending process. As such, a miscalculation across any of these hallmarks could spell doom for a protocol, particularly lenders— a lender could be arbitrarily liquidated if an oracle misreports mjprice or his collateral value. Yet, while decentralized oracle networks like Chainlink attempt to circumvent this challenge through multiple data sources for accurate reportage, the cost of doing so is high, this means that the more nodes that query data sources and supply the prices to lending dApps, the more the transaction to update the data on-chain becomes. expensive The reason for this is because each validator (node) has to sign a cryptographic message stating the price they queried, (i.e. ETH/ USD) for reporting into the Oracle to update on-chain. The more signed messages, the higher the cost of the Oracle transaction is because it contains more data (more signatures) Usually, a few Oracle service providers try to avoid this by limiting the number of nodes (validators) on the Oracle network. But this also comes at a cost— security tradeoff, thus increasing the potential for manipulation. Meanwhile, ZkOracles sidesteps all of these challenges without the need for tradeoffs— neither on security nor decentralization. ZkOracles data privacy, security, and cost-efficiency. For lending protocols, ZkOracles consult multiple off-chain data sources for asset prices or any other relevant data (wallet balances, transaction activity, collateral value, interest rates), performing as many off-chain queries as possible without incurring costs, unlike traditional oracles. prioritize ZkOracles transmits the off-chain computation and ZkProof for it (which it generates with the help of zk-SNARKS) on-chain to the smart contracts on the protocol. The data is transmitted trustlessly and privately such that bad actors are unable to frontrun and manipulate. Despite the private transmission, a lending protocol's smart contracts can verify that the data is accurate using the Zkproof generated. Securing DeFi with ZkOracles ZkOracles belong to the category of decentralized fair oracles, which have been touted for their advantages, such as minimized manipulation risks as data obtained is tamper-proof. Moreover, they also create the window of opportunity for long-tail assets such as liquid staking derivatives (LSD) outside the dominating LSTs— Lido's stETH and Rocketpool's rETH to attain a collateralization status (users could deposit them as collateral to obtain loans). Examples of the less popular LSDs include ankrETH, frxETH, cbETH, swETH, and metaLSD, UnshETH. Vitalik Buterin had concerns regarding the threats stETH and rETH domination pose to Ethereum's decentralization, suggesting that stakers should begin staking ETH with other protocols. And regarding collateralization, most (stemming from the concept that LSTs could attain other use cases such as lending and restaking) protocols (Lybra, Prisma, Gravita, etc.) prefer to onboard the dominant LSDs. In the same vein, major oracle providers require a $100 million and above TVL for any LSD to integrate their price oracle, shutting the door on the less-patronized LSTs. expressed LSDFi However, the mechanism behind ZkOracles suggests that less dominant LSTs could aggregate prices in DeFi lending without depending on a centralized entity or meeting steep requirements such as having huge TVL or incentivizing liquidity. This precludes the possibility of manipulation, thereby reducing the likelihood of another high-impact exploit since Zkoracles cull data through different APIs with a Zkproof that shows that the prices fed to protocols are trustless and verifiable. Final Thoughts While oracles are one of DeFi's most important infra, they have also proven to be the industry's Achilles heel, given the number of exploits that have occurred from the attack vector in the past year. Although one may likely argue that the industry is still standing in spite of the exploits, I'm compelled to take a cue from Dan Elitzer's article, where he noted that Thus, that argument crumbles if we (DeFi folks) have our eyes set on mainstream adoption as a goal. "Why DeFi is Broken" "the frequency and severity of exploits are at least two orders of magnitude above what might be considered acceptable levels for mainstream adoption." But mainstream adoption aside, ZkOracles preserve the ethos of decentralization that Lido's dominance appears to be threatening as regards Ethereum by enabling the less-dominant LSTs to gain market share and enjoy more utility on LSDfi protocols. Interestingly, as Dan Elitzer also suggested, I imagine that individuals and institutions could deploy ZkOracles for personal use on lending protocols, barring the need to depend on a general oracle and reducing the scope of damage in the event of an exploit (if the oracle of a user is compromised, any damage is limited to the user). I'd like to think of the integration of zkOracles into DeFi lending as killing three birds with a stone— privacy, decentralization, and security. Abbreviations ZKSNARKs - Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Arguments of Knowledge CDP - Collateralized Debt Positions. LSDfi - LSD Finance DeFi - Decentralized Finance TradFi - Traditional Finance LST - Liquid Staking Tokens LSD- Liquid Staking Derivatives Long-tail assets - Assets with low volume or liquidity ankrETH - Ankr staked ETH frxETH - Frax ETH cbETH - Coinbase ETH swETH - Swell ETH stETH - Lido’s staked ETH

Securing DeFi: The Case for ZkOracles

Scientific American Supplement, No. 365, December 30, 1882 by Various, is part of the HackerNoon Books Series. You can jump to any chapter in this book . THE ABA OR ODIKA. here THE ABA OR ODIKA. By W.H. Bacheler, M.D. Among the many luxuriant and magnificent forest trees of equatorial West Africa, none can surpass, for general beauty and symmetry, that which is called by the natives the "aba." When growing alone and undisturbed, its conical outline and dark green foliage remind one very much of the white maples of the northern United States, by a distant view, but, on a nearer approach, a dissimilarity is observed. Wherever, in ravines or near the banks of rivers, the soil is moist the most part of the year, there the aba chooses to grow, and during the months of June and July the falling fruits permeate the atmosphere with a delicious fragrance not similar to any other. This, in form, size, and general appearance, is very much like mango apples, so that the natives call mangoes the "white man's aba;" but the wild aba is not much eaten as a fruit, one or two being sufficient for the whole season. The kernel, or seed, is the important and useful part. When the fallen fruit covers the ground, much as apples do in America, the natives go in canoes to gather it, and the number harvested will be in proportion to the industry of the women. The aba plum is about the size of a goose's egg, of a flattened, ovoid shape, and, when ripe, a beautiful golden color. It consists of three distinct parts: the rind, the pulp, and the seed. The pulp consists of a mass extensively interwoven with strong filaments, which apparently grow out of the seed and are with great difficulty separated from it. The seed, reniform in shape, is bivalved, and constitutes about two-thirds of the bulk of the entire plum, and the inner kernel two-thirds the bulk of the seed. In consequence of it being such a high tree and growing in such inconvenient places, I have been unable to procure a specimen of the flowers. As soon as the fruit is brought to the village, all the inhabitants assemble with cutlasses and engage in the work of opening the plums and removing the kernels. The former are thrown away as useless. The seeds are evenly spread on the top of a rack of small sticks, under which a fire is built in the morning, and subjected to the smoke and heat of an entire day. Toward evening the heat is greatly augmented, and in a couple of hours the process is completed. The kernels are now soft, and the oil oozing from them, and while yet in this condition they are thrown into an immense trough and throughly beaten and mashed with a pestle. Baskets, with banana leaves spread in the inside to prevent the escape of the product, are in readiness, and it is put into them and pressed down. The next day these baskets are suspended in the sun, and at night are brought into the houses to congeal. The process is now finished. The cakes are removed by inversion of the baskets and "bushrope" tied around them, by which the pieces are carried. As thus prepared, odika is highly esteemed by the natives as an article of food, being made into a kind of thick gravy and eaten with boiled plantains. While at an interior mission station on the Ogowe River, I made some experiments in soap making. With palm oil I succeeded very well, using for an alkali the old-fashioned lye of ashes. But I was disappointed with the odika, though I learned some peculiar characteristics of it as a grease. By boiling the crude odika, I was unable, as I hoped, to separate the oleaginous from the extraneous matter, of which it contains a large proportion, but when the above-mentioned lye was used instead of water, the mass, instead of saponifying, merely separated; the grease, resembling very much in all particulars ordinary beef tallow, rising to the top of the caldron, while the refuse was precipitated. After clarifying this, it answers instead of oil of theobroma very nicely, and I have used it considerably in making ointments and suppositories with pleasing results. Gaboon, W. Africa, Aug., 1882.— New Remedies. About HackerNoon Book Series: We bring you the most important technical, scientific, and insightful public domain books. This book is part of the public domain. Various (2006). Scientific American Supplement, No. 365, December 30, 1882. Urbana, Illinois: Project Gutenberg. Retrieved https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/18763/pg18763-images.html This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at , located at . www.gutenberg.org https://www.gutenberg.org/policy/license.html

THE ABA OR ODIKA

THE CONVERSION OF HEAT ENERGY INTO MECHANICAL MOTION.

Dedicated to Secret Headquarters in Los Angeles

DOE v. GITHUB Court Filing, retrieved on January 26, 2023 is part of . You can jump to any part in this filing . This part is 11 of 21. HackerNoon’s Legal PDF Series here MEMORANDUM OF POINTS AND AUTHORITIES IV. ARGUMENT C. Plaintiffs’ Claims Fail for Reasons Specific to Each Claim. 1. Plaintiffs’ DMCA Claim Should be Dismissed. Although the complaint is replete with allegations about alleged similarities between Copilot’s output and the code it was trained on, Plaintiffs do not assert a copyright infringement claim. Instead, they allege that Defendants violated the DMCA by (1) removing or altering CMI from Licensed Materials, (2) distributing copies of Licensed Materials knowing CMI had been removed or altered without authority, and (3) knowingly providing CMI that is false by “asserting and/or implying that Copilot is the author of the Licensed Materials.” (Compl. ¶¶ 158-159.) Plaintiffs’ allegations do not meet DMCA requirements and fail properly to plead a DMCA claim. a. Plaintiffs Have Not Properly Pled a Claim for Removal of CMI. To properly plead a claim for removal of CMI, a plaintiff must plausibly allege: (1) the existence of CMI on a work, (2) removal or alteration of that information, (3) that the removal or alteration was done intentionally; and (4) the removal or alteration was done knowing or having reasonable grounds to know that it would induce, enable, facilitate, or conceal copyright infringement. 17 U.S.C. § 1202(b); Stevens v. CoreLogic, Inc., 899 F.3d 666, 673 (9th Cir. 2018) (discussing the mental state elements); O’Neal v. Sideshow, Inc., 583 F. Supp. 3d 1282, 1286-87 (C.D. Cal. 2022) (discussing other elements). Plaintiffs’ claim under § 1202(b) arises out of the allegation that CMI was removed from Plaintiffs’ code. But in order to prevent § 1202 from subsuming every copyright dispute, courts have interpreted “removal” in the § 1202 context to require that there was some identical copy of the plaintiff’s work made without the plaintiff’s CMI. (i) Failure to Allege Removal from Identical Copies. See, e.g., Kelly v. Arriba Soft Corp., 77 F. Supp. 2d 1116, 1122 (C.D. Cal. 1999) (requiring that CMI was removed from “a plaintiff’s product or original work”), aff’d and rev’d in part on other grounds, 336 F.3d 811 (9th Cir. 2003). Where a defendant makes a copy of a defendant’s work that is substantially similar, but not identical, to the plaintiff’s work, and omits CMI from that copy, there may be a claim for copyright infringement, but there cannot be a claim under § 1202. See Frost-Tsuji Architects v. Highway Inn, Inc., No. CIV. 13-00496 SOM, 2015 WL 263556, at *3 (D. Haw. Jan. 21, 2015), aff’d, 700 F. App’x 674 (9th Cir. 2017) (“But the drawing by [the defendant] is not identical to the drawing by [the plaintiff], such that this court can say that [the defendant] removed or altered [the plaintiff’s] copyright management information from [the drawing].”); id. (“basing a drawing on [the plaintiff’s] work is not sufficient to support a claim” under § 1202); Kirk Kara Corp. v. W. Stone & Metal Corp., No.CV 20-1931-DMG (EX), 2020 WL 5991503, at *6 (C.D. Cal. Aug. 14, 2020) (dismissing DMCA claim because “while the works may be substantially similar, Defendant did not make identical copies of Plaintiff’s works and then remove engraved CMI”). Here, Plaintiffs concede that Copilot does not generate identical copies: • “[T]he Output is often a near-identical reproduction of code from the training data.” (Compl. ¶ 46 (emphasis added)); • “Codex has reproduced Haverbeke’s Licensed Material almost verbatim, with the only difference being drawn from a different portion of those same Licensed Materials.” (Id. ¶ 60 (emphasis added)); • “Like the other examples above—and most of Copilot’s Output—this output is nearly a verbatim copy of copyrighted code. In this case, it is substantially similar to the “isPrime” function in the book Think JavaScript by Max X. Curinga et al., . . . .” (Id. ¶ 74 (emphasis added).) Because Plaintiffs affirmatively allege that the output at issue is not identical to the allegedly copied material, they have pled themselves out of court on the § 1202 claim, and it should be dismissed with prejudice. The § 1202 claim is also subject to dismissal because Plaintiffs have not sufficiently identified any works from which CMI was allegedly removed. See Free Speech Sys., LLC v. Menzel, 390 F. Supp. 3d 1162, 1175 (N.D. Cal. 2019) (dismissing DMCA claim because Menzel “merely alleged that his photographs ‘were altered to remove certain of [his] copyright management information’ without providing any facts to identify which photographs had CMI removed or to describe what the removed or altered CMI was”). (ii) Failure to Identify the Works. Plaintiffs merely allege generally that Defendants removed CMI from “Licensed Materials,” which they define broadly as “materials made available publicly on GitHub that are subject to various licenses containing conditions for use of those works.” (Compl. ¶¶ 1, 148.) The complaint highlights Plaintiffs’ imprecision, reciting in the DMCA cause of action that Copilot was “trained on millions— possibly billions—of lines of code.” (Id. ¶ 143.) But the few specific instances the complaint points to are not examples of Plaintiffs’ own code, but snippets from third-party programming textbooks. (Id. ¶¶ 56-61, 71-75.) That code is not the subject of Plaintiffs’ DMCA allegations, as it does not fall within the complaint’s definition of “Licensed Materials.” Without identifying specific works from which CMI was removed, Plaintiffs fail to state a claim for CMI removal. Plaintiffs also have not pled facts sufficient to meet the “double-scienter” requirement of Section 1202(b)(3), which requires “the defendant who distributed improperly attributed copyrighted material must have actual knowledge that CMI ‘has been removed or altered without authority of the copyright owner or the law,’ as well as actual or constructive knowledge that such distribution ‘will induce, enable, facilitate, or conceal an infringement.’” Mango v. BuzzFeed, Inc., 970 F.3d 167, 171 (2d Cir. 2020). (iii) Failure to Adequately Plead Scienter. “[T]he plaintiff must provide evidence from which one can infer that future infringement is likely, albeit not certain, to occur as a result of the removal or alteration of CMI.” CoreLogic, 899 F.3d at 676 (finding CoreLogic not liable for violating § 1202(b) because photographers had “not put forward any evidence that CoreLogic knew its software carried even a substantial risk of inducing, enabling, facilitating, or concealing infringement, let alone a pattern or probability of such connection to infringement”). Here, Plaintiffs have not alleged facts sufficient to establish a substantial risk that any copyright infringement has occurred or that any future infringement is likely because of the removal of CMI, nor that any of the OpenAI Entities had reason to know of any such likelihood. They have not alleged, for example, copying of protectible expression: that is, that the allegedly copied code was original, that there was no merger of idea and expression, and that the allegedly copied code did not represent “scènes à faire.” See, e.g., Oracle Am., Inc. v. Google Inc., 872 F. Supp. 2d 974, 984-997 (N.D. Cal. 2012) (summarizing the various doctrines limiting copyright in computer programs). And they would need to allege that any copying was not fair use—a heavy burden in light of the Supreme Court’s holding in the source-code context that “taking only what was needed to allow users to put their accrued talents to work in a new and transformative program . . . was a fair use of that material as a matter of law.” Google LLC v. Oracle Am., Inc., 141 S. Ct. 1183, 1209 (2021); see also, e.g., Authors Guild v. Google, Inc., 804 F.3d 202, 225 (2d Cir. 2015) (copying of millions of books for the purpose of searching them and providing relevant snippets to users was fair use). Finally, they would have to identify with specificity which work or works were copied and specify which defendant is alleged to have infringed which particular copyright. Lynwood Invs. CY Ltd. v. Konovalov, No. 20-CV-03778- MMC, 2022 WL 3370795, at *19 (N.D. Cal. Aug. 16, 2022) (dismissing claim). All of these are substantial hurdles to showing that Defendants had reason to know that they would cause or further copyright infringement. The complaint meets none of them. b. Plaintiffs Have Failed to Plead a Claim for Distributing Copies of Works from Which CMI Has Been Removed. Plaintiffs’ claim that Defendants have distributed copies of code from which CMI has been removed fails for the same reasons as its claim for removal of CMI. 17 U.S.C. §§ 1202(b)(2), 1202(b)(3). See Kirk Kara, 2020 WL 5991503, at *6 (applying same 1202(b)(1) analysis to distribution claims); Dolls Kill, Inc. v. Zoetop Bus. Co., No. 2:22-cv-01463-RGKMAA, 2022 WL 16961477, at *3-4 (C.D. Cal. Aug. 25, 2022) (concluding no DMCA violation for complaint that defendants “are distributing knockoff products” where the works were not identical and only had “certain[] similarities”); Mango v. BuzzFeed, Inc., 356 F. Supp. 3d 368, 376 (S.D.N.Y 2019), aff’d, 970 F.3d 167 (2d Cir. 2020) (in view of few decisions involving DMCA’s distribution prohibitions, looking to CMI removal caselaw for guidance). Plaintiffs have not specifically identified any such copies; the supposed copies are not identical; and Plaintiffs have not shown the requisite scienter. c. Plaintiffs Have Failed to Show that OpenAI Has Conveyed Any False CMI in Connection with Copilot Outputs. Plaintiffs’ claim that Defendants have conveyed false CMI (Compl. ¶¶ 158-159) is also fundamentally flawed. 17 U.S.C. § 1202(a). The DMCA defines CMI as any information identifying the work, its author or copyright owner, and the terms and condition of use, or “links to such information,” “conveyed in connection with copies . . . of [the] work.” 17 U.S.C. § 1202(c) (emphasis added). Courts require that the allegedly false CMI’s location suggest an association with plaintiff’s work. See SellPoolSuppliesOnline.com, LLC v. Ugly Pools Ariz., Inc., 804 F. App’x 668, 670-71 (9th Cir. 2020) (affirming grant of summary judgment against plaintiff’s false CMI claim, finding defendant’s copyright notice at the bottom of the webpage was not “conveyed in connection with” plaintiff’s photos); Logan v. Meta Platforms, Inc., No. 22- cv-1847-CRB, 2022 WL 14813836, at *8 (N.D. Cal. Oct. 25, 2022) (finding copyright notice on the bottom of each Facebook user page separated from the rest of the content insufficient to plead that Meta conveyed CMI in connection with plaintiff’s photos). Once again, Plaintiffs have not pointed to any specific code that Defendants conveyed containing false CMI, as pleading standards require. See § IV.C.1.a, supra. Moreover, Plaintiffs have not properly alleged that the OpenAI Entities have conveyed any CMI at all. Plaintiffs merely allege that “Defendants have a business practice of asserting and/or implying that Copilot is the author of the Licensed Materials.” (Compl. ¶ 158.) But that is not the same as conveying CMI “in connection with copies” of the work. And in the complaint’s examples of Codex-generated code, there is no CMI presented whatsoever. (See id. ¶¶ 49, 69.) Continue Reading . here About HackerNoon Legal PDF Series: We bring you the most important technical and insightful public domain court case filings. This court case 4:22-cv-06823-JST retrieved on September 8, 2023, from is part of the public domain. The court-created documents are works of the federal government, and under copyright law, are automatically placed in the public domain and may be shared without legal restriction. DocumentCloud.org

The DMCA Claims Against OpenAI Should Be Dismissed: Here's Why They Do Not Apply 

Cryptocurrencies and hacks have gone hand in hand since the dawn of this industry. And honestly, this doesn’t come as a surprise. As the combined digital asset market capitalization over $1.15 trillion, it is a sector with ludicrous opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit. remains What should really concern us is that hackers are back and are more hungry than ever. In just Q2 2023, hacks and exploits more than $300 million worth of damage. According to Chainalysis, 2022 was the best-ever year for crypto hackers, as the total value hacked an all-time high at $3.8 billion, up 15% from 2021's $3.3 billion. caused reached If this trend continues, I think may not survive another scandalous year like 2022. And that's why we must act now so we can prevent the next storm. crypto The Hackers Are Back Considering last year's records in stolen assets and recent tendencies like the $27 million CoinEx , we can safely assume that hackers are back. But who said they have ever left the crypto market at all? exploit From my standpoint, the cryptocurrency market will always remain a prime . Due to multiple factors, it simply makes sense for them to carry out attacks against the industry. target for cybercriminals First, crypto is becoming more popular among consumers and businesses. Global cryptocurrency ownership is at 420 million people, and institutional investors nearly 8% of the total BTC supply. estimated hold The market has also demonstrated significant growth potential throughout its history. Six years back, the combined market capitalization was only at around $200 billion, which has now increased to $1.17 trillion with a 140.5% CAGR. While this growth rate is enough to catch hackers' attention, the underlying technology's nascent nature and rapid evolution make crypto an even more attractive target. standing The lack of regulatory clarity in some jurisdictions is also a problem. Without specific rules and established security standards, protecting crypto users will continue to be an ongoing challenge for digital asset organizations. The Narrative Is Shifting, Just Not in the Way We Want It to The trust in the industry took a massive hit last year, as cases like FTX's and Terra's revealed crypto's ever-growing challenges related to the human factor. The lack of regulatory clarity, the rapidly evolving tech, and the risks of centralization make digital asset ecosystems more prone to human error and multiplying its impact on the market. This human factor is why traders have recently $1.5 billion from DeFi protocols following the Curve exploit. Consequently, crypto's narrative is shifting from an ecosystem powered by innovation to a financial wild west with massive risks for investors. withdrawn We Need to Act Now As crypto is at the center of hackers' attention, we need to step up and take action now to protect against their attacks, enhance security, and rebuild trust. Joining Forces One way to achieve the above goal is for market players to put a stronger emphasis on joint blockchain alliances and collaborations. By pooling resources and expertise, as well as sharing information about emerging threats, these alliances can collectively work towards strengthening the security measures in place. Simultaneously, joint initiatives like numerous CEX providers’ Proof of Reserves (PoR) audits FTX’s collapse could also provide additional benefits. Such a significant improvement in transparency can gradually restore the public’s trust in crypto. following In the next few years, I’d like to see the widespread implementation of robust security standards and protocols initiated by crypto providers. Doing so should enhance market participants’ safety in a similar way as PCI DSS and 3-D Secure did in the financial industry. Stepping up the Regulatory Game Regulatory approaches must evolve to keep pace with the rapidly changing crypto landscape. This is an important task, as regulators are lagging behind even in jurisdictions with more comprehensive frameworks around cryptocurrencies. For instance, 2017’s ICO craze nearly ended when the financial watchdogs of countries like , , , and issued guidance on (or outright banned) token sales. South Korea China France Australia Besides speedier decisions and a more proactive approach, governments and regulatory bodies should also establish clearer guidelines and standards for the industry's security practices. From my standpoint, achieving these goals will significantly increase the resilience of crypto ecosystems. In turn, this will help market players protect their users more efficiently. I believe one thing most industry participants can agree on is that . The growing regulatory scrutiny, including the arrest of Mango Markets’ attacker, is currently being viewed as a potential explanation for the growing trend among hackers to they stole. Cases like this make for a good reason why regulators must step up their game. regulation has a crucial impact on the market’s security return the funds A Multidimensional Approach Benefiting All To protect digital asset users, it’s not enough to focus on a single aspect (e.g., blockchain alliances) while neglecting the others. While doing so would provide some improvements in security, attackers will continue to exploit the existing shortcomings to maximize their stolen revenue. Instead, we need to fight hackers and fraudsters on numerous fronts to win the war against them. That’s why I believe a multidimensional approach should be taken to fortify the crypto ecosystem against hacks and ensure the safety of market participants. The key to achieving this goal is through collaboration among industry players, robust regulations, and increased transparency.

Crypto Is Losing its War Against Hackers and It’s Time to Act

Tokens, altcoins, cryptocurrencies - whatever you call them, native assets for blockchain projects have flooded the market. With them have come investors looking for the next big coin that could make them rich. Meanwhile, developers are working round the clock on projects using tokens to solve user problems, attract buyers, and entice new users with rewards. In this rapidly evolving landscape of and cryptocurrency, tokenomics has emerged as a critical factor in the success or failure of each project. , a portmanteau of "token" and "economics," refers to the intricate web of interactions governing blockchain tokens. For developers venturing into the world of token creation and blockchain-based projects, a deep understanding of tokenomics is paramount. blockchain technology Tokenomics Tokenomics determines everything from how a token supply is distributed, to the incentives and game theory involved, to how the token is used. Between crafting a sustainable token model and navigating the complexities of token distribution every cryptocurrency developer is tasked with building a system that can help ensure the product remains resilient and stable over time. MattyTokenomics, a token economics professional that has worked with Top 50 projects, recently launched an open source guide for developers looking to understand and master tokenomics. In this interview, we look into the guide’s creator and his view of the market at large. 1.  What is the purpose of this developers’ guide? I started writing ‘Tokenomics for Builders’ after speaking to startups that had just graduated from a . All of them were struggling with the same questions when it come to their token. How to decide if they should launch a token and when to do so, standards for allocation and vesting, legal structure, incentive and value accrual mechanisms. It was clear they needed a with a step-by-step design framework and all the answers in one place. I got to work compiling what became the guide that is now taught at multiple accelerator programs. Web3 accelerator guide 2. How do you see crypto developers prioritizing tokenomics in the future? I think crypto is slowly maturing where we’ll see fewer unsustainable Ponzi scheme games, and see more sustainable, rigorously designed tokenomics that prioritize economic security and incentive alignment. There will always be exceptions to the rule, but builders have enough historical examples to see that bad tokenomics can create economic exploits and kill even good products that have large user bases. Just as it’s standard to get code audited, it’ll become more and more standard for tokenomics to be audited to ensure what the code is designed to do makes sense in the first place. smart contract 3. In today’s market, can a digital asset survive without carefully considering tokenomics? Not in the long-term no. We’ve seen plenty of collapses caused by poorly designed tokenomics: , Steemit, , STEPN, Olympus DAO, Ampleforth, Iron Finance, Mango Markets, the list goes on. Fragile designs with poor risk management can still have a short term pump with enough hype marketing, but it never lasts. Terra Luna Axie Infinity Serious builders that want to build technology for the long term, not pump-and-dump schemes, need to ensure that incentives are well balanced, sustainable, and . That requires taking token design seriously. resilient to volatility 4. What are the chances that a cryptocurrency project could have one tokenomic structure and revert to another? It is possible to change tokenomics after launch, but it’s typically a very painful process that makes it hard to recover momentum. A whole chapter of the guide is devoted to helping builders think through the pros and cons of for a reason - most founders underestimate the risks, costs, distractions a token brings. launching a token It always easier to change the design before launching, which means taking the time to design, model, and rigorously stress-test a token before launch, even if you plan to give it away for free. Even tokens given away for free bring new types of risk and headaches for builders. Conclusion For any cryptocurrency project to see lasting success, it is important to get several aspects correct. Tokenomics is without a doubt one of these aspects. As the market has aged, the quality and standards for tokenomics that investors expect have increased. Fortunately for founders, however, there are more resources available than ever before to design a high quality, sustainable tokenomic model.

Tokenomics: What Developers Should Know Before Launching a Token

Deep within the heart of the Jungle, where vines tangled and leaves whispered secrets, lived a curious creature named Bobtail. Bobtail wasn't your ordinary jungle dweller – he was a tech-savvy monkey, known for his unruly fur that stood on end in every direction. One fine morning, as Bobtail swung through the trees, a mysterious message fluttered down to him. It was an invitation from a secretive society of animals called "The Jungle Enigmas." The message promised a glorious feast of bananas to anyone who could unravel the jungle's greatest mystery. Well, Bobtail's stomach rumbled in agreement, and off he went to embark on his quest. Chapter 1: The Roaring Riddle Bobtail delved into his research, reading scrolls of knowledge and consulting wise old parrots. He soon discovered that the mystery at hand revolved around something called "Zero-Knowledge Proofs." It was like magic, but for animals! Zero-Knowledge Proofs allowed one animal to prove they knew a secret without revealing the secret itself. Bobtail's brain swirled with thoughts. He imagined himself and his jungle pals, like Larry the Lion and Ava the Antelope, trying to unlock a treasure hidden in the heart of the Lion Kingdom. The catch was, Bobtail had to prove he knew the secret path to the treasure without actually telling Larry and Ava. It was like saying you knew where the juiciest mango tree was, without revealing its location. Chapter 2: The Jungle Jamboree Bobtail decided to gather his animal friends for a grand Jungle Jamboree, a gathering of the wildest minds in the forest. The jungle came alive with the sounds of chattering monkeys, hummingbirds, and even a breakdancing beetle. At the jamboree, Bobtail met a wily fox named Felix who was well-versed in Zero-Knowledge Proofs. Felix explained the concept with a dance-off challenge – proving you had a signature move without revealing the move itself. In their dance-off duel, Bobtail demonstrated his secret salsa move without revealing the steps, leaving Felix amazed at the magic of Zero-Knowledge Proofs. Chapter 3: The Mysterious Mountain As Bobtail continued his journey, he stumbled upon a mysterious mountain. The mountain was like a puzzle, with hidden caves of uncertainty and peaks of confusion. But Bobtail was not one to shy away from a challenge. With determination in his heart and bananas in his belly, he set forth to conquer the mountain. At the peak of the mountain, Bobtail uncovered the jungle's biggest secret – Zero-Knowledge Proofs were like invisible bridges that allowed animals to cross treacherous ravines without revealing their path. It was like saying you could climb a mountain without showing the footsteps you took. Chapter 4: The Banana Bonanza Armed with his newfound knowledge, Bobtail devised a plan to crack the Lion Kingdom's mystery wide open. He envisioned a colossal banana bonanza, a celebration of fruity proportions, to unveil the power of Zero-Knowledge Proofs. Bobtail recruited his friends Larry the Lion and Ava the Antelope. Together, they set up a massive jungle banquet, with bananas hanging from every tree. The challenge was simple – Larry had to prove he could reach the bananas without revealing the secret roar that would open the gates to the feast. It was like proving you could open a secret door without revealing the magic word. Chapter 5: The Unforgettable Finale As Larry approached the bananas, Bobtail and Ava watched in anticipation. Larry, using the principles of Zero-Knowledge Proofs, roared a sequence of hidden cues that only he understood. The jungle trembled, leaves rustled, and suddenly, the gates swung open to the magnificent banana bonanza. The animals of the jungle cheered and celebrated, feasting on bananas of all shapes and sizes. Bobtail's unruly fur seemed to glow with a sense of accomplishment. He had unlocked the Lion Kingdom's roaring secret, proving that knowledge could be shared without revealing the heart of the mystery. And so, our tale ends with Bobtail, the tech-savvy monkey, as a legend in the jungle. As he swung through the trees, his fur now stood on end with pride, knowing that he had not only filled his belly with bananas but had also unlocked the magic of Zero-Knowledge Proofs for the entire animal kingdom.

The ZKP Jungle Adventure: Unlocking the Lion Kingdom's Roaring Secret

Dick Sands the Boy Captain by Jules Verne, is part of the HackerNoon Books Series. You can jump to any chapter in this book . THROUGH THE FOREST here THROUGH THE FOREST. Although there was no obvious cause for apprehension, it cannot be denied that it was with a certain degree of foreboding that Dick Sands first entered that dense forest, through which for the next ten days they were all to wend their toilsome way. Mrs. Weldon, on the contrary, was full of confidence and hope. A woman and a mother, she might have been expected to be conscious of anxiety at the peril to which she might be exposing herself and her child; and doubtless she would have been sensible of alarm if her mind had not been fully satisfied upon two points; first, that the portion of the pampas they were about to traverse was little infested either by natives or by dangerous beasts; and secondly, that she was under the protection of a guide so trustworthy as she believed Harris to be. The entrance to the forest was hardly more than three hundred paces up the river. An order of march had been arranged which was to be observed as closely as possible throughout the journey. At the head of the troop were Harris and Dick Sands, one armed with his long gun, the other with his Remington; next came Bat and Austin, each carrying a gun and a cutlass, then Mrs. Weldon and Jack, on horseback, closely followed by Tom and old Nan, while ActÃ¦on with the fourth Remington, and Hercules with a huge hatchet in his waist-belt, brought up the rear. Dingo had no especial place in the procession, but wandered to and fro at his pleasure. Ever since he had been cast ashore Dick had noticed a remarkable change in the dog's behaviour; the animal was in a constant state of agitation, always apparently on the search for some lost scent, and repeatedly giving vent to a low growl, which seemed to proceed from grief rather than from rage. As for Cousin Benedict, his movements were permitted to be nearly as erratic as Dingo's; nothing but a leading-string could possibly have kept him in the ranks. With his tin box under his arm, and his butterfly net in his hand, and his huge magnifying-glass suspended from his neck, he would be sometimes far ahead, sometimes a long way behind, and at the risk of being attacked by some venomous snake, would make frantic dashes into the tall grass whenever he espied some attractive orthoptera or other insect which he thought might be honoured by a place in his collection. In one hour after starting Mrs. Weldon had called to him a dozen times without the slightest effect. At last she told him seriously that if he would not give up chasing the insects at a distance, she should be obliged to take possession of his tin box. "Take away my box!" he cried, with as much horror as if she had threatened to tear out his vitals. "Yes, your box and your net too!" "My box and my net! but surely not my spectacles!" almost shrieked the excited entomologist. "Yes, and your spectacles as well!" added Mrs. Weldon mercilessly; "I am glad you have reminded me of another means of reducing you to obedience!" The triple penalty of which he was thus warned had the effect of keeping him from wandering away for the best part of the next hour, but he was soon once more missing from the ranks; he was manifestly incorrigible; the deprivation of box, net, and spectacles would, it was acknowledged, be utterly without avail to prevent him from rambling. Accordingly it was thought better to let him have his own way, especially as Hercules volunteered to keep his eye upon him, and to endeavour to guard the worthy naturalist as carefully as he would himself protect some precious [Illustration: The way across the forest could scarcely be called a path.] specimen of a lepidoptera. Further anxiety on his account was thus put to rest. In spite of Harris's confident assertion that they were little likely to be molested by any of the nomad Indians, the whole company rejoiced in feeling that they were well armed, and they resolved to keep in a compact body. The way across the forest could scarcely be called a path; it was, in fact, little more than the track of animals, and progress along it was necessarily very slow; indeed it seemed impossible, at the rate they started, to accomplish more than five or six miles in the course of twelve hours. The weather was beautifully fine; the sun ascended nearly to the zenith, and its rays, descending almost perpendicularly, caused a degree of heat which, as Harris pointed out, would have been unendurable upon the open plain, but was here pleasantly tempered by the shelter of the foliage. Most of the trees were quite strange to them. To an experienced eye they were such as were remarkable more for their character then for their size. Here, on one side, was the bauhinia, or mountain ebony; there, on the other, the molompi or pterocarpus, its trunk exuding large quantities of resin, and of which the strong light wood makes excellent oars or paddles; further on were fustics heavily charged with colouring matter, and guaiacums, twelve feet in diameter, surpassing the ordinary kind in magnitude, yet far inferior in quality. Dick Sands kept perpetually asking Harris to tell him the names of all these trees and plants. "Have you never been on the coast of South America before?" replied Harris, without giving the explicit information that was sought. "Never," said Dick; "never before. Nor do I recollect ever having seen any one who has." "But surely you have explored the coasts of Columbia or Patagonia," Harris continued. Dick avowed that he had never had the chance. "But has Mrs. Weldon never visited these parts? Our countrymen, I know, are great travellers." "No," answered Mrs. Weldon; "my husband's business called him occasionally to New Zealand, but I have accompanied him nowhere else. With this part of Lower Bolivia we are totally unacquainted." "Then, madam, I can only assure you that you will see a most remarkable country, in every way a very striking contrast to the regions of Peru, Brazil, and the Argentine republic. Its animal and vegetable products would fill a naturalist with unbounded wonder. May I not declare it a lucky chance that has brought you here?" "Do not say chance, Mr. Harris, if you please." "Well, then, madam; providence, if you prefer it," said Harris, with the air of a man incapable of recognizing the distinction. After finding that there was no one amongst them who was acquainted in any way with the country through which they were travelling, Harris seemed to exhibit an evident pleasure in pointing out and describing by name the various wonders of the forest. Had Cousin Benedict's attainments included a knowledge of botany he would have found himself in a fine field for researches, and might perchance have discovered novelties to which his own name could be appended in the catalogues of science. But he was no botanist; in fact, as a rule, he held all blossoms in aversion, on the ground that they entrapped insects into their corollÃ¦, and poisoned them sometimes with venomous juices. New and rare insects, however, seemed hereabouts to be wanting. Occasionally the soil became marshy, and they all had to wend their way over a perfect network of tiny rivulets that were affluents of the river from which they had started. Sometimes these rivulets were so wide that they could not be passed without a long search for some spot where they could be forded; their banks were all very damp, and in many places abounded with a kind of reed, which Harris called by its proper name of papyrus. As soon as the marshy district had been passed, the forest resumed its original aspect, the footway becoming narrow as ever. Harris pointed out some very fine ebony-trees, [Illustration: Occasionally the soil became marshy.] larger than the common sort, and yielding a wood darker and more durable than what is ordinarily seen in the market. There were also more mango-trees than might have been expected at this distance from the sea; a beautiful white lichen enveloped their trunks like a fur; but in spite of their luxuriant foliage and delicious fruit, Harris said that there was not a native who would venture to propagate the species, as the superstition of the country is that "whoever plants a mango, dies!" At noon a halt was made for the purpose of rest and refreshment. During the afternoon they arrived at some gently rising ground, not the first slopes of hills, but an insulated plateau which appeared to unite mountains and plains. Notwithstanding that the trees were far less crowded and more inclined to grow in detached groups, the numbers of herbaceous plants with which the soil was covered rendered progress no less difficult than it was before. The general aspect of the scene was not unlike an East Indian jungle. Less luxuriant indeed than in the lower valley of the river, the vegetation was far more abundant than that of the temperate zones either of the Old or New continents. Indigo grew in great profusion, and, according to Harris's representation, was the most encroaching plant in the whole country; no sooner, he said, was a field left untilled, than it was overrun by this parasite, which sprang up with the rank growth of thistles or nettles. One tree which might have been expected to be common in this part of the continent seemed entirely wanting. This was the caoutchouc. Of the various trees from which India-rubber is procured, such as the Ficus prinoides, the Castilioa elastica, the Cecropia peltata, the Callophora utilis, the Cameraria latifolia, and especially the Siphonia elastica, all of which abound in the provinces of South America, not a single specimen was to be seen. Dick had promised to show Jack an India-rubber-tree, and the child, who had conjured up visions of squeaking dolls, balls, and other toys growing upon its branches, was loud and constant in his expressions of disappointment. "Never mind, my little man," said Harris; "have patience, and you shall see hundreds of India-rubber-trees when you get to the hacienda." "And will they be nice and elastic?" asked Jack, whose ideas upon the subject were of the vaguest order. "Oh, yes, they will stretch as long as you like," Harris answered, laughing. "But here is something to amuse you," he added, and as he spoke, he gathered a fruit that looked as tempting as a peach. "You are quite sure that it is safe to give it him?" said Mrs. Weldon anxiously. "To satisfy you, madam, I will eat one first myself." The example he set was soon followed by all the rest. The fruit was a mango; that which had been so opportunely discovered was of the sort that ripens in March or April; there is a later kind which ripens in September. With his mouth full of juice, Jack pronounced that it was very nice, but did not seem to be altogether diverted from his sense of disappointment at not coming to an India-rubber-tree. Evidently the little man thought himself rather injured. "And Dick promised me some humming-birds too!" he murmured. "Plenty of humming-birds for you, when you get to the farm; lots of them where my brother lives," said Harris. And to say the truth, there was nothing extravagant in the way the child's anticipations had been raised, for in Bolivia humming-birds are found in great abundance. The Indians, who weave their plumage into all kinds of artistic designs, have bestowed the most poetical epithets upon these gems of the feathered race. They call them "rays of the sun," and "tresses of the day-star;" at one time they will describe them as "king of flowers," at another as "blossoms of heaven kissing blossoms of earth," or as "the jewel that reflects the sunbeam." In fact their imagination seems to have shaped a suitable distinction for almost every one of the 150 known species of this dazzling little beauty. But however numerous humming-birds might be expected to be in the Bolivian forest, they proved scarce enough at present, and Jack had to content himself with Harris's representations that they did not like solitude, but would be found plentifully at San Felice, where they would be heard all day long humming like a spinning-wheel. Already Jack said he longed to be there, a wish that was so unanimously echoed by all the rest, that they resolved that no stoppage should be allowed beyond what was absolutely indispensable. After a time the forest began to alter its aspect. The trees were even less crowded, opening now and then into wide glades. The soil, cropping up above its carpet of verdure, exhibited veins of rose granite and syenite, like plates of lapis lazuli; on some of the higher ground, the fleshy tubers of the sarsaparilla plant, growing in a hopeless entanglement, made progress a matter of still greater difficulty than in the narrow tracks of the dense forest. At sunset the travellers found that they had accomplished about eight miles from their starting-point. They could not prognosticate what hardships might be in store for them on future days, but it was certain that the experiences of the first day had been neither eventful nor very fatiguing. It was now unanimously agreed that they should make a halt for the night, and as little was to be apprehended from the attacks either of man or beast, it was considered unnecessary to form anything like a regular encampment. One man on guard, to be relieved every few hours, was presumed to be sufficient. Admirable shelter was offered by an enormous mango, the spreading foliage of which formed a kind of natural verandah, sweeping the ground so thoroughly that any one who chose could find sleeping-quarters in its very branches. Simultaneously with the halting of the party there was heard a deafening tumult in the upper boughs. The mango was the roosting place of a colony of grey parrots, a noisy, quarrelsome, and rapacious race, of whose true characteristics the specimens seen in confinement in Europe give no true conception. Their screeching and chattering were such a nuisance that Dick Sands wanted to fire a shot into the middle of them, but Harris seriously dissuaded him, urging that the report of firearms would only serve to reveal their own presence, whilst their greatest safety lay in perfect silence. Supper was prepared. There was little need of cooking. The meal, as before, consisted of preserved meat and biscuit. Fresh water, which they flavoured with a few drops of rum, was obtained from an adjacent stream which trickled through the grass. By way of dessert they had an abundance of ripe mangoes, and the only drawback to their general enjoyment was the discordant outcry which the parrots kept up, as it were in protest against the invasion of what they held to be their own rightful domain. It was nearly dark when supper was ended. The evening shade crept slowly upwards to the tops of the trees, which soon stood out in sharp relief against the lighter background of the sky, while the stars, one by one, began to peep. The wind dropped, and ceased to murmur through the foliage; to the general relief, the parrots desisted from their clatter; and as Nature hushed herself to rest, she seemed to be inviting all her children to follow her example. "Had we not better light a good large fire?" asked Dick. "By no means," said Harris; "the nights are not cold, and under this wide-spreading mango the ground is not likely to be damp. Besides, as I have told you before, our best security consists in our taking care to attract no attention whatever from without." Mrs. Weldon interposed,- "It may be true enough that we have nothing to dread from the Indians, but is it certain that there are no dangerous quadrupeds against which we are bound to be upon our guard?" Harris answered,- "I can positively assure you, madam, that there are no animals here but such as would be infinitely more afraid of you than you would be of them." "Are there any woods without wild beasts?" asked Jack. "All woods are not alike, my boy," replied Harris; "this wood is a great park. As the Indians say, 'Es como el Pariso;' it is like Paradise." Jack persisted,- "There must be snakes, and lions, and tigers." "Ask your mamma, my boy," said Harris, "whether she ever heard of lions and tigers in America?" Mrs. Weldon was endeavouring to put her little boy at his ease on this point, when Cousin Benedict interposed, saying that although there were no lions or tigers, there were plenty of jaguars and panthers in the New World. "And won't they kill us?" demanded Jack eagerly, his apprehensions once more aroused. "Kill you?" laughed Harris; "why, your friend Hercules here could strangle them, two at a time, one in each hand!" "But, please, don't let the panthers come near me!" pleaded Jack, evidently alarmed. "No, no, Master Jack, they shall not come near you. I will give them a good grip first," and the giant displayed his two rows of huge white teeth. Dick Sands proposed that it should be the four younger negroes who should be assigned the task of keeping watch during the night, in attendance upon himself; but ActÃ¦on insisted so strongly upon the necessity of Dick's having his full share of rest, that the others were soon brought to the same conviction, and Dick was obliged to yield. Jack valiantly announced his intention of taking one watch, but his sleepy eyelids made it only too plain that he did not know the extent of his own fatigue. "I am sure there are wolves here," he said. "Only such wolves as Dingo would swallow at a mouthful," said Harris. "But I am sure there are wolves," he insisted, repeating the word "wolves" again and again, until he tumbled off to sleep against the side of old Nan. Mrs. Weldon gave her little son a silent kiss; it was her loving "good night." Cousin Benedict was missing. Some little time before, he had slipped away in search of "cocuyos," or fire-flies, which he had heard were common in South America. Those singular insects emit a bright bluish light from two spots on the side of the thorax, and their colours are so brilliant that they are used as ornaments for ladies' headdresses. Hoping to secure some specimens for his box, Benedict would have wandered to an unlimited distance; but Hercules, faithful to his undertaking, soon discovered him, and heedless of the naturalist's protestations and vociferations, promptly escorted him back to the general rendezvous. Hercules himself was the first to keep watch, but with this exception, the whole party, in another hour, were wrapped in peaceful slumber. [Illustration: Hercules himself was the first to keep watch.] About HackerNoon Book Series: We bring you the most important technical, scientific, and insightful public domain books. This book is part of the public domain. Jules Verne (2005). Dick sands, the boy Captain. Urbana, Illinois: Project Gutenberg. Retrieved October 2022 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/3250.html.images This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at , located at . www.gutenberg.org https://www.gutenberg.org/policy/license.html

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