#Emerging Technologies in Real Estate
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Software Development for Real Estate Industries: Trends 2024
Curious about real estate software? Discover cutting-edge trends in software development for real estate industries! For a while, professionals working in real estate were slow to adopt new tech. They probably believed in the idea, “If it works, don’t mess with it.” Back then, methods such as in-person meetings, paper-based transactions, and traditional advertising were still proving…
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#Digital Transformation in Real Estate#Emerging Technologies in Real Estate#Future of Real Estate Software#Property Management Software#PropTech Innovations#Real Estate Software Applications#Real Estate Software Development#Real Estate Software Solutions#Real Estate Technology Trends#Software Development for Property Industry
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Astrology observations 🍒
My chart readings are still opened for those interested :) reviews are on my masterlist that is pinned to my profile 🤍
Something so interesting I’ve observed with Neptune conjunct the composite Ascendant is that the couple tend to be very forgiving of one another. However, there can be the inclination to engage in excessive drinking, gambling, or drug use together (if there are no mitigating factors).
It is not uncommon to begin dating someone new when your solar return Sun & Venus are in the Solar Return 5th house. Ideally, you want to have both to increase the chances. You want to look at the 7th house for a more long-term connection. However, it is possible for a relationship that begins in a 5th house centered solar return year to progress if there are aspects made to Saturn!
A “9th house heavy” solar return almost always indicates that a significant form of study or trip will present itself during that year. Some people may decide to enroll in college for the first time or others may even return to college in such a year. Alternatively, this could be a year in which your religious, political, or philosophical beliefs are highlighted.
It’s not uncommon to see individuals who have their Midheaven in Virgo, or the ruler of their Midheaven in the 6th house end up working in the health & wellness industries. These people can be drawn to personal training, nutrition or the healthcare industry.
If you have the ruler of your 7th house in the 9th. You may find that you have the tendency to attract long distance relationships or foreign partners.
Chiron or Neptune transiting the 6th or 10th houses are two planets I often see activated when a person is having trouble in their vocational sphere. Job losses or disillusionment pertaining to one’s career can often emerge during these transits.
Secondary Progressions are such an underrated predictive technique! You want to look out for when your progressed planets change signs, when the progressed moon enters a new house, or when there’s a progressed new or full moon! This is because these all often coincide with significant life events, this is especially true when it comes to the occurrence of a progressed new moon!
In synastry, when someone’s Mars falls into your 10th house they can motivate you to achieve your career goals and ambitions. However, if Mars is harshly aspected, this person can have a negative impact on your reputation, career, and the pursuit of your worldly ambitions.
You can expect to see a significant amount of advancement or abundance in your career in a year where your solar return Saturn or Jupiter trines the solar return midheaven!
Interestingly, you may experience sudden weight gain or weight loss when your Solar Return Uranus makes a conjunction to your Solar Return Ascendant! Alternatively, this could just mean that you decide to make an unexpected change to your physical appearance! This can be getting a new hairstyle or changing your wardrobe!
If you have your part of fortune in the 3rd or the 11th house you may find success with an online blog, sales, or anything involving the use of technology & social media!
Those with the ruler of their Midheaven in the 4th or part of fortune in the 4th can be drawn to real estate. This placement (ruler of midheaven in the 4th) can also indicate working from home or working in a family business.
Neptune conjunct the descendent is common to see in the charts of people who get married more than once in their lifetime!
If you have the ruler of your 9th house in the 9th, you may decide to pursue higher education/college abroad!
#astrology tumblr#astrology#astrology observations#astro thoughts#synastry#astrology blog#astrologyposts#astrology tips#astrology content#astro notes
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Watch the 2024 American Climate Leadership Awards for High School Students now: https://youtu.be/5C-bb9PoRLc
The recording is now available on ecoAmerica's YouTube channel for viewers to be inspired by student climate leaders! Join Aishah-Nyeta Brown & Jerome Foster II and be inspired by student climate leaders as we recognize the High School Student finalists. Watch now to find out which student received the $25,000 grand prize and top recognition!
#ACLA24#ACLA24HighSchoolStudents#youtube#youtube video#climate leaders#climate solutions#climate action#climate and environment#climate#climate change#climate and health#climate blog#climate justice#climate news#weather and climate#environmental news#environment#environmental awareness#environment and health#environmental#environmental issues#environmental education#environmental justice#environmental protection#environmental health#high school students#high school#youth#youth of america#school
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By perceiving deserts as frontiers for experimentation, the developers of these real estate projects facilitate the disappearance of fragile ecologies – like that of the saguaro cactus – not only representationally, as in Telosa’s renders, but also materially, causing the very ruin early generations of settlers projected onto such arid landscapes. As our ecological crises solidify, such imaginations of devastated landscapes are becoming globalised, leading humans to perceive the planet itself as a test bed, open to experimentation for those advancing speculative design solutions, technological innovations and business models to mitigate the climate emergency, with little understanding or consideration of their future impacts. Desert cities such as Telosa, Neom and Masdar, and the capital that funds them, are complicit in both the demise of deserts themselves and the planet more broadly. While presenting themselves as inventive solutions to various ecological crises, these supposedly post‑carbon utopias in fact squander the opportunity humanity possesses today to effectively address the climate catastrophe.
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[NEW FILE UPLOADED]: STATUS: LEAKED//CORRUPTED
↳ Black Panther
↳ Shuri Udaku
↳ Alternate Universe
↳ Synopsis: Absurdity colors the wind, the true song of Aquarius. White doves and weeded lawns bring abundance, and though tradition condemns the latter, it took an absurd eye to deem a dandelion a wishing flower. It took an angel condemned by God to grant it so.
Euphoria’s Annotations: ##Based in 1800s || ##Tribbing || ##Arranged Marriage || #Inspired by: This Fic by Wiinters on AO3 & Queen Charlotte (Bridgerton) || ##Shuri Has A Dirty Mouth
[ATTACHED MESSAGE]:
↳ EUPHORIA: I feel like domspace shuri is more of a dirty, slutty talker than a sadist. Expect heavy edits over time. You are not british here.
Love conquers hate. The elders of the living generation have tried to pass this down, but to no avail, for they leave the context out of it—leave it up to the youth to interpret on their own, without any clue on where to start, what to think. The repetition of the saying with no further explanation rendered it tasteless, wisdom that’s carried nations is now a graying chatterbox that no one pays mind to.
The planet is run by two powerful, opposing kingdoms by the names of Wakanda and Vymont. The war has stretched on for centuries, legend has it the land of Jormil was once rich, nutrient soil—until bloodshed soaked the grounds in great volume, far surpassing the limits of its thirst, and therefore turning it into a vacant, hilled land of wild clay.
As the elders passed and the world modernized as to not be left behind by expansion, the war over resources grew to be a nuisance. The people despised the other side, while the ones who wore the crown could not figure a vital reason to continue fighting. In typical history, when nations quarrel it’s ended by two means: total conquering, or union. This case was different, what could be done when the kingdoms simply grow tired?
The story needed to be good, believable. Enough to throw salt on any fires before they emerge. A fairytale with a valuable lesson, love conquers hate.
Thus, the papers sealing your marriage were drawn.
Princess of Vymont and Princess of Wakanda, two young women who met and fell madly in love, despite being rivals. Desire bewitched you as your knights fought, carelessness revealed your schemings much to the rulers’ horror. Efforts that could move mountains and change the weather, the seasons at will, what it took for either to come around. Now, you join Princess Shuri Udaku hand in hand, allowing love to light the way.
Good, believable.
It’s your duty as Princess to endure for the sake of your people. Your marriage with Shuri was sealed in ink weeks before the matrimonial kiss, and even by that time, you hadn’t spoken much. Complete strangers too skilled at lying for your own good.
You assumed that once you married, once your nations united, you wouldn’t have to see her. Sure, all eyes were on you, closely watching your faces and mannerisms for any chances of fraud, but Shuri is a busy woman, the innovative leader of sciences and technology, she had no real time for you.
“Have you consummated the marriage?”
Unfortunately, your mothers were much keener than the public. Queen Ramonda’s question was met with stiff side-eyes and silent nods, and if that didn’t give it away, it was the five foot distance standing between you.
It’s been five months since your marriage, and three weeks since your holy matrimony was sealed in stone. The months leading up to that night, Shuri made astounding efforts to be a wife to you, despite you claiming she did not need to. You were fine with lying, maybe even a quickie in the case that the Gods and Ancestors happen to be vindictive. Shuri denied, saying she didn’t want to touch you as a stranger when you’re her wife, for you didn’t deserve that, and it wouldn’t feel right.
She moved into your gifted estate and slept in a room three halls over. Three months of dining together, painting, gardening, attending balls and picking out fabrics for elaborate complimenting gowns—newlywed activities, a real honeymoon. Your time spent had ignited a spark, a spark that morphed into an unrecognizable blaze of red heat that charred your skin that night of your first time.
Your first time may be your only time, and it irks you.
The fact that you’re irked, irks you.
You woke up in an empty bed, rung the bell, and as your servants tended to you, you asked them where your wife went.
“She’s at the lab for today. She wanted me to tell you she’ll be home by dinner!”
Shuri kept her promise, she returned about an hour from supper while you were in the garden, reading. The next day, the same servant repeated the same thing, except Shuri will be home a little after dinner, and the next day, she’s going to be staying late at the lab, don’t wait up.
Secretly, you were hurt. Shuri never stopped being a busy woman, but you feel as though she merely prioritized you for one thing, and now that you’ve given it to her, she’s lowered your name on the list.
You could confront her, but for what? You married to end a three hundred year war between nations, not from being in love with one another, like Prince T’Challa and Nakia. You told yourself that you’d get over it, but you overheard your servants gossiping:
“What of Rineea, now that the Princess is married?”
“Riri? She has been spending her time at the lab… I halfway expected it to be a call off situation when they married, but that’s unrealistic, huh?”
“I did too. But they were together for a minute, when I heard of the Princess’ engagement, I assumed it was to her. Now imagine my shock when I found out it was a Vymont.”
“Thee Vymont. I am just the cook, but… Put a Princess and a coworker in front of me, and tell me to choose a spouse. But I’m just the cook.”
“Right.”
Right, you’re a Vymont. A crucial detail so easily forgotten. You’re staying on Wakandan soil, holding a piece of Wakanda’s crown, but in no way are you Wakandan. You’re still an outsider, trapped in a marriage with someone who will never see you as anything but. Although, Shuri is a generous sweetheart with you. She told you once how stupid she thinks the war is, how she’s overcome with glee now that it’s over.
“The war has ceased, and I get a beautiful wife as a token,” She had said to you, standing irritatingly close, “And the prettiest Vymont has to offer, at that.”
You told yourself you just aren’t home at the same time, but the possibility she’s been skipping out on you for a girl she has real feelings for, real history with, sharing real similarities with as a Wakandan scientist—meanwhile, you paint, study music, and teach horse riding to children. Shuri said you were the prettiest Vymont, not the prettiest in general. The Wakandan must be show-stoppingly gorgeous, how silly is it to think one night with a Vymont could amount to many with a Wakandan?
It’s three hours until midnight, the warm bodies of your servants is what’s stopping the estate from growing cold. Ethereal are the full moons in November, traces of clouds brush the stars’ cheeks, the wind blows away October’s remnants, and strips crooked branches naked. The daytime servants are tucked away in their own, the nighttime servants are dutifully buzzing; you know the estate well enough to avoid being seen by them.
“Have you changed—“
You abruptly pause your journey mid-step at the sound of a servant’s voice. You’re at a four way stop, of sorts, near the ballroom. Tongue bitten, fingers digging into the black silk of your nightgown, you take a peek around the corner.
Two brown skinned women in uniform, one holding a lantern, the other a stack of aprons resembling the ones they have situated atop their ragged, black dresses. You didn’t hear the door close, but they’ve just come out of a room, tension releases your shoulders as they walk in the opposite direction of you.
Still, you tiptoe across the way. If they catch you, they’ll gaslight you to death about cold-driven sicknesses and royalty needing their beauty rest until you agree to return to your chambers.
The estate’s grand halls are a gothic black with bleached carpet. The moon’s essence gleams through high windows, illuminating your path in a way you’re thankful for, the hall you just journeyed from had no windows and it’s not wise to carry a candle when sneaking around. Yes, it can be blown out and re-lit, but you’re not in the mood for extra activities. At least, not those sorts, of extra activities.
The name of the game is distraction, you’re looking to blow off some steam by walking around. Being alone in your room, underneath your sheets with your thoughts, is poisonous. You’re meeting with congress tomorrow to discuss plans regarding a new terrorist group that’s been attacking countries under Wakanda, to which the Princess herself will be riding with you. At close proximity in a three hour carriage ride with the curtains drawn.
It’s record breaking how fast your sheets became sweltering, each scenario you pushed away was followed by a new one, filthier than the last. They were all painfully unrealistic, you know this, the only reason you shared that night was to affirm your marriage. The weighed rock on your finger is for your people, for the greater good, your wife’s inventions center just that.
Shuri is resilient, hot-headed. She performs her duties well, a brilliant leader for the intellectual world, and her jokes are funny. Prince T’Challa, her brother, is charming and even-tempered compared to Shuri. He doesn’t raise his voice, his bearded face hosts a permanent smirk, T’Challa is the definition of a dashing prince. Shuri is nothing like him. Humbleness is the only trait they share, really.
She has a smart remark reserved for any situation, she’s attentive to everything, listens even when it’s assumed no one is. One thing you admire in her is her polite streak, she’s genuinely respectful. Shuri treats her staff as coworkers and her coworkers as friends. She’s a friendly, warm hearted woman that gives without a second thought.
She’s a giver indeed, in more ways than one.
You stop at a grand wooden door. You don’t need to look around to know it’s Shuri’s room. No guards crowding the hall, she still hasn’t returned.
Teeth pulling the skin at your lip, you allow your knuckles to brush the smooth wood. Three weeks ago, you were pinned against this door. Days prior she revealed to you her taste for dominance, it was brief and fleeting, like the hint of a character death in a book, you didn’t take it to heart.
“Come on, talk to me. Nothing to say now, my love?”
“Is this what gets you off, baby? I can make you cum like this?”
“Everytime you close your legs, I’ll stop.”
Arousal throbs at your core. You’re bad at following your own directions, then again, this is your fifth walk this week.
You were back from a ball that night. Your corset was fitted to accentuate your tits, neatly placed was a silver cross pendant necklace—Shuri’s favorite on you, silver. She smelled heavenly that night, when she pulled you taut to her body as you danced, you felt how tense she was and smiled. You knew you did that.
Courtesy as the new Princess of Wakanda, you mingled with the guests that night, danced with civilians and giggled as they held you close, akin to how she did. They spun and dipped you, kissed your hand, sprayed you with compliments, by the end of the night you were glowing, and Shuri’s grinning face called you ravishing.
You didn’t think your sly little tactic worked until you got in the carriage. You were met with a silence so sudden, so solemn and heavy, it shocked you. Shuri’s gaze locked you in place, her expression unreadable, uncharacteristically so. She didn’t speak the entire fifteen minute ride to the estate.
A frown tugs at your lips. She claimed you as her wife, no one else’s. Perhaps she only meant it then, as a one-night medium for blowing off steam.
Perhaps your connection is meant to be this way, her in one corner, you in the other. Your marriage is one of obligation, a peace treaty, it’s meant to be shallow. After all, she’s Wakandan, and you’re of Vymont, your bloods don’t mix, they never have. It’s stupid to believe they ever could, your alliance was for the people, not you.
Indeed. It’s high time to get her out of your head. It’s silly to crave someone with every bone in your body when they’ll never see you in that way.
“Princess?”
You jump out of your skin, braids knocking against the wood as you whip around.
Behind you is your wife and her royal adviser, Okoye, wearing long, extravagant black fur capes with mini hills of melted snow collected on the hoods and shoulders. Okoye’s lantern allows you to see the way Shuri’s eyes are soft, adoring. Your heart lurches, her fatigue is blatantly obvious, and, still, she’s so gentle.
You suck at following your own directions. You train your attention on Okoye, whose expression is a stark difference from Shuri’s.
“What are you doing out here, and wearing that? It’s freezing,” She presses, scrunching her eyebrows. Your outfit isn’t as skimpy as she makes it seem: a black, thigh-length, silk nightgown with slippery straps, a matching silk robe that trails your footsteps, and black slippers. You cross your robe over your torso and tie it with a loose knot.
“I was only taking a walk-“
“—And where is Aneka?!”
“Enough, Okoye.”
The royal adviser slowly kisses her teeth, but quiets at the royal’s command nonetheless.
“Princess, is everything alright? Do you need anything?” Shuri says, and frowns when you shake your head. “It is almost midnight. You should be asleep.”
You hate this, you would have rather been caught by your servants than your wife.
“I’m fine. As I stated, I was merely just walking around,” You reaffirm, tucking a braid behind your ear before twirling its end. “I was not expecting you, how were your travels?”
“Cold,” Okoye answers, you squint at her.
“We caught wind of a blizzard approaching, so we left earlier than scheduled. I’m so glad I caught you, let’s talk more inside.”
“Ah, I think I should return to my room. We present to congress in the morning.” You tangle your fingers behind your back, feigning a look of disappointment. Shuri tilts her head.
“It’s funny you bring that up,” She says, “That’s what I need to talk to you about. I’m sorry to keep you up, Princess, but I would let it go if I could debrief you on the way.”
Any word of protest dies on your tongue when she ghosts her hand on your hip, brushing past you to open the door. As she guides you inside her room, she bids Okoye a good night.
Shuri doesn’t give you a second to breathe, when the doors close she pulls you into a kiss, sliding her hands along the silk of your waist. She holds you taut against her, a whimper sounds at the back of your throat and she sighs, immediately deepening the kiss. The musk of outside clings to her, it’s not an unpleasant scent, it’s subtle and bearable.
You confusedly try to wrack your brain for conclusions, explanations on how this can be if there’s crucial information to be shared, but the haze that clouds your judgment slaps you away.
You’re chocolate to her burning hands, melting almost too easily into her. The cold, damp fur tickles your palms as you slide up her arms before pulling the hood off. Her hair isn’t detangled enough for you to play in, too dry for a comfortable attempt, so your nosy fingers fall to her neck instead. Arousal is the fire that melts your organs, steadily burns you from the inside out, all you can do is pant and weakly push at her, sweat beading your forehead.
“You’ve been hiding from me, my love,” She mutters against your lips as she very subtly ruts into you, her declaration sends a surge of desire straight through you. She squeezes various areas of your torso as if to leave handprints on your body, she’s asking—pleading for permission to touch you and it’s so hard to think, her and her fucking mouth make it so hard.
Your tongue is too heavy for words, when you buck your hips she furthers her point by sliding a hand between your legs to rub your pussy over the silks.
“I never imagined you to be so cruel.” Shuri guides you back by your waist, and you let her, relishing in the feel of her kissing down your neck; as far as you’re concerned, she can do whatever she wants to you. “How much longer were you planning to deprive me of this? Of you?”
Your back hits a wall, Shuri moans and reconnects your lips—before the smoke can thicken, you break away.
“Have you been sleeping with other people?”
“No.”
Shuri has a special ability, she can move space, manipulate the particles that make up your reality, as she pleases. It’s the only explanation for how heavy the room is now that she has you caged, her amorous breaths lightly fan your eyelashes, her expression is difficult to make out in the dark, but her presence is telling enough. It’s her special ability at play.
Her response is incredibly quick, but she’s not lying. Your lips are chapped, you haven’t done much, is a simple kiss this titillating, to this degree? She’s not lying, but you don’t believe she’s telling the entire truth.
You hum, looking off to the side. Shuri notices, you believe that she’s lying to you, though she swore at the podium she never would; she pays it little regard, there’s other, more pressing matters on her mind, it’s been three weeks since she’s had you, and she prayed to Bast that she got to see you before your trip.
“..You are captivating, my love,” Shuri breathes, “Take off your clothes and lie on the floor.”
It’s her special ability that wills you to pull the knot of your robe a-loose, the garment cascades to the floor and Shuri never takes her eyes off of you, even when she unclasps her cape and tosses it across the room. She’s wearing black trousers and a beautiful white blouse with frills adorning the chest, which suffers the same fate as her coat when she tugs it off.
—
Your legs are stretched to the hint of exertion, halfway numb due to how your wife is situated on top of you, but it’s welcomed, for it gives her access to you, access to your cunt that throbs with each rock of her hips.
Shuri’s wetness trails down your lips to join the puddle dirtying your silks, her breaths fan your ear, accompanied by deep, throated moans that slip without her permission. It’s not as obscene as the slick sounds of your cunts, but it heats your face, blood roars underneath your cheeks.
“You’re enjoying this. Look at you.”
Shuri’s taunting contributes to your lightheadedness. Pleasure is a sea of waves far too rowdy for you to handle, a soft mewl pulls you further in its depths, the only answer you can muster is a nod, eyes struggling to stay open, weakly clawing at her back.
If her people heard any of the things she’s saying, any of the things she’s whispered in your ears when no one is looking, shock would turn their bodies to stone. The months leading up to your first time were torture. Your image matters, it’s imperative you have a good reputation or you risk being overthrown, a lesson your father sat you down and talked to you about when you were 5, and you’d thrown a hissy fit during a festival.
“There’s a mask attached to the crown.” — A quote you once read in a fantasy book, written by a civilian. You internally squealed, they had no clue how correct they were, and they never will, for your mask wouldn’t allow it. It’s partially why you like Shuri, she’s a princess herself, and you’ve seen firsthand the stark difference between Princess Shuri of Wakanda, and Shuri Udaku.
“Can I make you cum like this, beloved? Hm? Make my pretty wife cum all over herself, from a little humping,” Shuri slurs through pants, her clit twitching as it glides along your folds. Her and her fucking mouth is going to be the death of you, she’s so incredibly raunchy when lust impassions her, as if arousal is a poison, a sickness.
Shuri stills her hips at your lack of response, and you whine, jerking into her.
“Yes, Shuri, ‘m gonna cum like this,” You plea, nipples brushing her own as your back arches, “Keep going, please please.”
She shudders, the way you say her name is criminal. Her hips resume their pace, your eyes loll to the back of your head.
“Good girl,” Shuri practically purrs in your ear, “Good girl.”
She sits up to pin you by your shoulders, holding you in place as if you were ever going anywhere. Her pace grows harsher, her grip comes with a resounding ache that fans the flames licking your belly, you’re convinced Shuri can do anything, say anything, and it’ll dampen your arousal the very same.
“I want to fuck you with a toy, just like this. I’ll make you ride me ‘til it hurts, ‘til you can’t think. You won’t know what to do with yourself.”
Shuri’s eyes are trained on your face, you feel moreso than see it, for it’s her special ability. She’s an obvious woman, says what she means and means what she says, even blunt to her own detriment, at times. Her words stir something in you, force their way through your ribs to caress the heart that’s forgotten it’s meant to beat. The knot in your belly is steadily tightening, if she stops you truly might cry.
The approach of her own release is telling from the way her pussy throbs and pulses along your lips. She lowers her hips, dropping more of her weight to increase the pressure where your desires conjoin, knowing she has you locked in your position. You wonder if she’s holding anything back at the moment, how far her limits are from this point.
“And you’ll take it for me, won’t you? Like the obedient girl you are.” And you shudder, nodding incessantly to the jerky rhythm of your tits.
“Shuri, ’m so close,” You whimper, legs twitching. “Please don’t stop.”
She would be a fool to do so, knowing this she nods anyway, whispering under her breath curses not fitted for a woman of her stature. Pleasure is a sea of waves too rowdy for you to handle, it creeps on you, bringing with it an insurmountable pressure you’d squirm to flee if Shuri weren’t holding you still.
If you asked, she’d say she’s holding you in place to keep the angle right, and it’d be a half truth. She’d leave out the sick satisfaction that surges through her when doing so, the hint, or inkling, that you’re trapped with no other choices. You’re water through her fingers in everyday life. Shuri gulped down her desires when pursuing you, she wanted to go at your pace, do things to your accord, otherwise she’d risk being seen as clingy and eager.
You didn’t believe her earlier when she told you she hadn’t slept with anyone, but she was telling the truth. The entire carriage ride home, Shuri was squirming in her seat, resorting to palming her pussy over her pants to satiate the teenage urge to get off right then and there, for she couldn’t stop thinking of you, in various positions, various settings, far more scandalous than the privacy of her room, far less lady like for a woman of your stature.
Your wife’s eyes roll to the back of her head. “(Y/N), cum for me, Princess, let me see it.”
The air is punched from your gut, your mouth drops open in a silent scream as you release, your stomach twitching at each wave that passes. It’s the feeling of your pussy’s incessant pulsing coupled with the dashing sight of you that drives Shuri to follow, she cums with a broken whimper, her head lolled over her shoulders.
“Yes, like that, just like that,” She breathlessly encourages, hips slown to drawn out thrusts, “Doing so well for me, my love, so so well.”
Shuri’s name is but an anchor, you repeat it under your breath over and over to keep yourself grounded. Her arms jelly, you catch her before she can completely collapse on you—not that you’d mind.
Weeks, she’s had to smile in people’s faces, feign interest in their lives, and come back to an empty home. Weeks, she’s had to camp in her lab to ensure her coworkers’ tasks were done to perfection, and it’s imperative they are—they were not. Weeks, she’s had to live off simple interactions with you, long hug, light conversation, and then she’s pulled away.
Weeks, she’s had to tell herself the lives of others are important too, civilians are people too, if not she’d be under you—or on top of you—all the time, enjoying the serenity your aura provides.
It’s scary how quick it’s come to this. Five months, you met on a chilly day, bedded on a windy night, and now her windows are blanketed in frost. Five months, and the signature of her human coding is tattooed on your finger, the skin where your wedding ring rests.
“Have you been sleeping with other people?”
Shuri makes a mental note to address it tomorrow, at an appropriate time.
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How Blockchain is transforming the finance industry
Blockchain technology has recently emerged as a game-changer in many different industries, with finance being one of the most affected sectors. Due to the decentralized and transparent nature of blockchain, traditional financial services may transform, improving accessibility, efficiency, and security. Through this blog, we will explore how the financial sector is changing as a result of blockchain technology. Let's get going!
What is blockchain technology? Let's quickly review.
Blockchain technology is a sophisticated database technique that enables the transparent sharing of information within a business network. Data is stored in blocks that are connected in a chain in a blockchain database. Blockchain is a technique for preserving records that makes it hard to fake or hack the system or the data stored on it, making it safe and unchangeable. It is a particular kind of distributed ledger technology (DLT), a digital system for simultaneously recording transactions and associated data in numerous locations.
Now let’s see how blockchain technology is impacting the finance industry.
Enhanced Security
Blockchain offers a very safe and impenetrable means to transfer and store financial data. It establishes a decentralized, unchangeable ledger using cryptographic methods, where each transaction is recorded across a network of computers. By doing so, the necessity for middlemen is removed, and the likelihood of fraud, identity theft, and data manipulation is decreased.
Improved Transparency
With blockchain, everyone involved in a transaction can access the same copy of the ledger. This openness lessens the need for third-party verification and promotes confidence between the parties. Additionally, it gives auditors and regulators access to real-time information on financial activities, which improves compliance and accountability.
Faster and Cheaper Transactions
Traditional financial transactions sometimes include several middlemen, which causes delays and expenses. Blockchain makes direct peer-to-peer transactions possible, doing away with the need for middlemen. Particularly for cross-border transactions, which can take days or even weeks with conventional systems, this greatly lowers transaction costs and accelerates settlement times.
Smart Contracts
Blockchain systems commonly enable smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with predefined rules and conditions. These contracts take effect right soon as the requirements are satisfied, eliminating the need for middlemen and reducing the likelihood of errors or conflicts. Smart contracts may simplify several financial processes, including trade finance, insurance claims, and supply chain financing.
Financial Inclusion
Blockchain has the potential to increase financial inclusion by giving unbanked and underbanked people access to financial services. Through blockchain-based digital identities, anyone can access financial services and demonstrate their creditworthiness without relying on traditional institutions. Remittance services supported by blockchain also offer affordable and efficient cross-border transactions, benefiting people in developing countries.
Tokenization and Asset Management
Tokenizing tangible assets like stocks, commodities, and real estate is made possible by blockchain technology. These digital tokens, which represent ownership rights, can be exchanged in a secure setting. Tokenization creates possibilities for fractional ownership, effective asset management, and liquid markets. New financial instruments like security tokens and decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols can also be developed thanks to it.
By enhancing existing financial services with efficiency, security, and transparency, blockchain technology has the potential to completely transform the financial sector. Its uses span from cross-border payments to smart contracts and supply chain financing, as we have already explored in this blog. Despite major obstacles, the use of blockchain in financial services seems to have a bright future. Adopting this ground-breaking technology could open up new doors for financial inclusion and fundamentally transform how we conduct business and handle our finances in the digital era.
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A potential bidding war to buy TikTok has begun, less than a month after President Joe Biden signed legislation that would force the app’s Chinese parent company ByteDance to divest, or face a ban in the United States within a year.
The latest suitor to emerge is the real estate billionaire Frank McCourt, who announced this week he’s assembling a group of investors to acquire TikTok and has brought on financial advisers from Guggenheim Securities and the law firm Kirkland & Ellis to help. The app could be worth $100 billion, according to some estimates, though McCourt said it’s too early to discuss potential valuations.
What exactly McCourt would do with TikTok remains unclear, but in an interview with Time Magazine, he said that “the user experience wouldn’t change much.” He was not deterred by the prospect of the Chinese government preventing him from buying TikTok’s core algorithm, which is responsible for determining what content users see on the app.
“Of course, TikTok isn't worth as much without the algorithm. I get that. That’s pretty plain,” McCourt said. “But we’re talking about a different design, which requires people to move on from the mindset and the paradigm we’re in now.”
McCourt, who was previously the owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, says he has already poured $500 million into an existing social media and technology initiative called Project Liberty, which aims to reduce the power that Silicon Valley giants like Meta and Google have over the internet. One of its main focuses has been building and deploying a blockchain-based protocol that Project Liberty claims will give people more control over their data online.
McCourt also previously invested in another social network called MeWe, a privacy-focused platform that became popular with far-right users after Facebook and Twitter deactivated many of their accounts in the wake of the US Capitol riot on January 6. In 2022, MeWe announced it was migrating its entire platform over to Project Liberty’s decentralized social networking protocol, and it’s possible McCourt could do the same thing with TikTok.
Anna Feagan, a spokesperson for Project Liberty, says McCourt and his team are currently focused on putting together their bid for TikTok, but are committed to finding the right technological solutions for the platform. She adds that so far, they have not been in contact with ByteDance.
New York University professor Jonathan Haidt, a leading voice of the movement arguing that smartphones and social media are causing grave harm to children, says he supports McCourt’s plan for TikTok. “What a creative approach to changing social media: Assemble a consortium to buy TikTok and make it better, on an architecture that respects users' rights,” he said in a post on X.
TikTok, however, has made it clear that it does not want to sell its US operations, and is fighting the legality of the new divest-or-ban law in court. TikTok did not respond to a request for comment about the acquisition plans announced by McCourt and other investors.
This has done little to deter a growing list of other business moguls who have also expressed interest in acquiring the app, which has been under government scrutiny in the US for four years over alleged national security concerns stemming from its Chinese ownership. One of them is former Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin, who said earlier this week he too was assembling a group of investors to make a bid for TikTok. He first hinted about the plan in March before the divestiture bill passed into law.
Mnuchin told Bloomberg he understands that the Chinese government is unlikely to allow ByteDance to sell TikTok’s algorithm, but he planned to “rebuild the technology.” That would be quite a lofty endeavor, especially given that TikTok competitors like YouTube and Meta have been trying to copy its product for years with only mixed success.
There’s at least one existing business connection between Mnuchin and TikTok: They are both backed by Japan’s SoftBank, which has stakes in ByteDance and in Liberty Strategic Capital, the private equity firm Mnuchin set up after he left office. A representative from Liberty Strategic Capital did not immediately return a request for comment about Mnuchin’s TikTok acquisition strategy.
Former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick has reportedly considered buying TikTok as well. He even floated the idea to Zhang Yiming, the former CEO of ByteDance who retains a roughly 20 percent stake in the company, the Wall Street Journal reported in March. Around the same time, Canadian businessman and Shark Tank judge Kevin O'Leary told Fox News that the app is “not going to get banned, ’cause I’m gonna buy it.”
O’Leary did not immediately return a request for comment about whether he was seriously interested in TikTok. Kotick could not be reached for comment.
All of TikTok’s potential suitors would be facing an uphill battle to close a deal. The first challenge will be raising enough money. Only a small number of the world’s largest companies likely have enough cash on hand to acquire the app outright, and so far, they haven’t publicly voiced an interest in the platform. That’s a big change from four years ago when then-president Donald Trump first tried to force ByteDance to sell TikTok. At the time, Microsoft, Oracle, and Walmart were among the most promising buyers for the app.
But the even bigger problem that investors face is the fact that TikTok doesn’t seem to think a sale would even be possible, let alone desirable. In a lawsuit it filed against the US government last week, TikTok argued the divestiture bill violated the First Amendment and claimed severing its American operations from ByteDance was “not commercially, technologically, or legally feasible.”
TikTok noted that the Chinese government has “made clear” that it would not permit the company to sell its recommendation algorithm to a foreign buyer, citing regulations that Beijing introduced after Trump first targeted TikTok in 2020. The measures put limits on the export of certain technologies such as “personal interactive data algorithms.”
Even if a sale were politically possible, TikTok argued the move would “disconnect Americans from the rest of the global community” on the platform, in possibly the same way that the Chinese version of the app is restricted only to people in China. TikTok added that it would take a team of new engineers years to sift through its source code and “gain sufficient familiarity” with it to run the app effectively.
A group of TikTok creators filed a separate lawsuit against the federal government earlier this week arguing that the divest bill violated their free speech rights. (TikTok is paying their legal fees.) Separating TikTok from ByteDance, they said, “is infeasible, as the company has stated and as the publicly available record confirms.”
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youtube
Watch the American Climate Leadership Awards 2024 now: https://youtu.be/bWiW4Rp8vF0?feature=shared
The American Climate Leadership Awards 2024 broadcast recording is now available on ecoAmerica's YouTube channel for viewers to be inspired by active climate leaders. Watch to find out which finalist received the $50,000 grand prize! Hosted by Vanessa Hauc and featuring Bill McKibben and Katharine Hayhoe!
#ACLA24#ACLA24Leaders#youtube#youtube video#climate leaders#climate solutions#climate action#climate and environment#climate#climate change#climate and health#climate blog#climate justice#climate news#weather and climate#environmental news#environment#environmental awareness#environment and health#environmental#environmental issues#environmental justice#environment protection#environmental health#Youtube
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In this remarkably rich account of land and profit-making in colonial Calcutta (now Kolkata), Debjani Bhattacharyya traces the transformation of marshes, bogs, and muddy riverbanks into parcels of fixed, bounded, and alienable property under British colonial rule. Framed evocatively as a “history of forgetting” (6), Bhattacharyya details the everyday enactments and contestations of imperial power undertaken by colonial officials and merchants, hydrographers, Indian property owners, urban planners, surveyors, and speculators between the 1760s and 1920. Over this period, the fluid and culturally multivalent spaces of the delta were translated and transformed into “dried urban landscapes of economic value” (12). [...] [T]he economization of space was so encompassing that earlier ways of understanding and inhabiting the delta’s shifting lands and waters were [obscured] [...].
The British thus had to produce landed property both conceptually and materially in a process that proceeded through two entangled registers of power. The first was the legal register, which translated shifting and indeterminate aqueous spaces into apparently solid landed property through modes of legal classification and arbitration. The second register of power concerned hydraulic technologies of drying and draining the landscape (10), which materialized these legal categorizations in the production of urban space.
By the early twentieth century, these “technologies of property” (5) had produced new lines between land and water in the city and rendered its fluid ecologies, such as marshes and bogs, as valuable “land-in-waiting” (172) for property development and financial speculation. [...]
[T]he delta’s fluid ecology emerges at times as a limit on the property-making activities of the East India Company and the British Crown [...]. Bhattacharyya’s account highlights the mobility of the delta’s fluid landscape, with water, silt, and mud taking on agentic roles and shaping historical trajectories. [...] [Bhattacharyya] provides a fascinating account of the meanings of rivers and other watery spaces in Bengali cultural life, drawing on folk songs, poetic genres such as the maṅgalkāvya, storytelling, and forms of artistic representation such as painted narrative scrolls. [...] Bhattacharyya recovers forms of relationality and claim-making in the fluid deltaic environment that exceed the representations of colonial cadastral surveys and revenue records. [...]
[H]owever, Calcutta became increasingly disconnected from its watery past. [...] [There was an] increasing entanglement of the urban land market with infrastructural projects to dry land and control water. These included the excavation of an extensive network of canals; the construction of docks in Khidderpore and the draining of the Maidan [...]. A collective amnesia about Calcutta’s fluid ecologies set the stage for the emergence of a speculative real estate market by the beginning of the twentieth century [...]. This period saw Calcutta’s remaining wetlands and marshes rendered as “land-in-waiting for property development” (169) in a process that continues to the present day.
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All text above by: Calynn Dowler. “Debjani Bhattacharyya, Empire and Ecology in the Bengal Delta: The Making of Calcutta.” Asian Ethnology Volume 80 Issue 1. 2021. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me.]
#ive read bhattacharyyas book and her focus on the lethal power of property laws and legal engineering in bengal#is also the focus of two other scholars of bengali environment and history who are kuntala lahiri dutt and rohan dsouza#all three highlight how colonial lawmaking converted fluid deltas mangroves rivers into property#to tax and control land yes but also to strengthen landlords and hierarchies to force the poor into debt and wage labour and plantation work#abolition#ecology#imperial#colonial#mangroves
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The new route Russia is using to export its oil to China. Unfortunately global warming and the melting of the icecaps only benefits Russia geopolitically. What’s the big deal? you might wonder. A 10-day reduction in transport time is huge when it comes to the velocity of capital. Power accrues to the nations that control key maritime trade routes.
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Between climate change and the new Cold War, the future doesn’t look pretty. China’s economy is imploding thanks to their reliance on a debt-fueled real estate bonanza, their misguided zero COVID policy, and Xi Jinping’s head-scratchingly bad policies (and of course, his consolidation of power). Siding with Russia was a huge mistake… Now China’s biggest export markets are trying to decouple or at least diversify away from them. Youth unemployment is so bad in China (21%, but possibly significantly higher) that the government has decided to stop publishing such data. The Philippines and Vietnam are pivoting toward the US. South Korea and Japan are putting their long, historical feud aside to join forces against China. Japanese military neutrality is over. Meanwhile a tiny island called Taiwan makes over 92% of the world’s advanced semiconductors and will likely be invaded in our lifetime. Will an (economically) weakened China make it more or less likely that Xi will invade Taiwan? (Strongmen facing a domestic crisis and loss of popular support do often start wars as a kind of “gamble for resurrection,” but Xi might have become more risk adverse as he observes Russia’s debacle in Ukraine. Plus, an amphibious invasion is logistically extremely difficult to pull off.)
Defense spending worldwide is skyrocketing, climbing back toward Cold War levels. The lines on the map are hardening, particularly in the Asian/Pacific theater and the European theater. A nuclear trifecta of Russia-China-North Korea is emerging. Yes, it is a marriage of convenience, but quite a dangerous one given that Russia will likely transfer technology (specifically, platforms to deliver nuclear warheads) to North Korea in exchange for Soviet-compatible ammunition/arms to use in Ukraine. I hate feeling like the world is a frog getting boiled but as I finish this 26-part BBC documentary on World War I, I can’t help but feel that the geopolitical situation is very unstable.
Oh, the madness of nation states! Wake me up when it’s over.
#geopolitics#political economy#trade#war#military industrial complex#cold war#new cold war#russia#China#capitalism
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This day in history
I'm in Minneapolis! Today (Oct 15): Presenting The Internet Con at Moon Palace Books. Monday (Oct 16): Keynoting the 26th ACM Conference On Computer-Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing.
#20yrsago Identity thief steals sex-offender’s name https://web.archive.org/web/20031002192428/http://www.sexcriminals.com/news/15382/
#15yrsago Librivox free audiobook library now has 365 days’ worth of continuous listening material https://librivox.org/2008/10/15/365-days-of-librivox-audio/
#15yrsago Canada elects 34 copyfighters to Parliament https://web.archive.org/web/20081018165923/https://www.michaelgeist.ca/content/view/3450/125/
#15yrsago BART directors to management: stop using terrorism “fearmongering” https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/bart-debates-allowing-drinks-on-trains-3266010.php
#15yrsago Wedding Ring Cipher contest winners https://memex.craphound.com/2008/10/15/wedding-ring-cipher-contest-winners/
#10yrsago South London school bans “slang” https://memex.craphound.com/2013/10/15/south-london-school-bans-slang/
#10yrsago Why email services should be court-order resistant https://freedom-to-tinker.com/2013/10/15/a-court-order-is-an-insider-attack/
#10yrsago EFF to Comic-Con: protect our secret identities! https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2013/10/open-letter-comic-con-organizers-protect-our-secret-identities
#10yrsago Homlessness and technological literacy: the Tenderloin Technology Lab https://www.wired.com/2013/10/homeless-but-wired/
#5yrsago Epson is teaching the internet not to install security updates https://www.vice.com/en/article/pa98ab/printer-makers-are-crippling-cheap-ink-cartridges-via-bogus-security-updates
#5yrsago Printer refuses humor magazine because “Christian owners” want to protect “the kids” https://www.patreon.com/posts/good-evening-21990238
#5yrsago Parkland kids’ Rube Goldberg machine illustrates the aftermath of school shootings https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mue3N5a9NQE
#5yrsago A sensible, free guide to negotiating book contracts https://www.authorsalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/20181003_AuthorsAllianceGuidePublicationContracts.pdf
#5yrsago Wannacry ransomware cost the British National Health Service £92m ($121m) https://web.archive.org/web/20181015161904/https://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/3064515/wannacry-attack-cost-cash-strapped-nhs-an-estimated-gbp92m
#5yrsago What would a “counterculture of AI” look like? https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/rethinking-ai-through-politics-of-1968/
#5yrsago Bruce Sterling on the next 50 years of climate-wracked maker architecture https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p4DV80xrm8
#5yrsago China’s panicked upper middle class are easy picking for offshore real estate scams https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/2167731/desperate-chinese-middle-class-take-big-risks-move-money-and-themselves
#5yrsago Blame billionaires for climate change https://www.gq.com/story/billionaires-climate-change
#5yrsago Georgia Senator, asked about voter suppression, mugs constituent for his phone https://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2018/10/14/david-perdue-snatch-phone-voter-suppression-sot-nr-vpx.cnn
#5yrsago A dating website for Trump supporters leaked its customers’ data ON DAY ONE https://techcrunch.com/2018/10/15/donald-daters-a-dating-app-for-trump-supporters-leaked-its-users-data/
#1yrago How lawyers became sadists https://pluralistic.net/2022/10/15/lex-sadist/#incentives-matter
My next novel is The Lost Cause, a hopeful novel of the climate emergency. Amazon won't sell the audiobook, so I made my own and I'm pre-selling it on Kickstarter!
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Steam venting in Manhattan
The New York City Steam System: A Tale of Power and Efficiency
In the bustling metropolis of New York City, hidden beneath the concrete jungle, lies a remarkable infrastructure that powers and heats much of the city's iconic buildings. The New York City steam system, one of the largest in the world, is an engineering marvel that exemplifies the city's commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. This vast network of underground pipes and tunnels not only provides reliable and cost-effective energy but also plays a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in the city. Let's delve into the fascinating world of the New York City steam system and uncover its significance.
The history of the New York City steam system dates back to the late 19th century when the demand for steam power and heating began to rise. The idea of centralizing steam production and distribution emerged as an efficient alternative to individual boiler systems in each building. The first steam plant was established in Manhattan in 1882, and over time, the system expanded to encompass other boroughs, including Brooklyn and Queens.
At the heart of the steam system are the Con Edison steam plants, which generate steam by burning natural gas or fuel oil. These plants produce steam at high pressure and temperature, reaching up to 1,200 pounds per square inch (psi) and 850 degrees Fahrenheit. The steam is then transported through an extensive network of pipes, spanning over 100 miles in total length, that crisscrosses beneath the city streets.
The New York City steam system provides various services, including space heating, domestic hot water, and process steam for industrial purposes. It serves a wide range of customers, from residential buildings to commercial and institutional establishments. Notable landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the United Nations Headquarters are among the many structures that rely on the steam system for their heating and cooling needs.
One of the most significant advantages of the steam system is its exceptional energy efficiency. Centralized steam production enables economies of scale, allowing for efficient fuel utilization. The steam is generated at a high temperature, which maximizes the energy content and reduces waste. Additionally, the system employs the concept of cogeneration, where excess steam is utilized to generate electricity, further enhancing its overall efficiency.
The New York City steam system also contributes to the city's sustainability goals. By utilizing cleaner-burning fuels like natural gas and implementing advanced emission control technologies, the system helps to reduce air pollution and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, it is estimated that the steam system's carbon footprint is significantly lower compared to individual boiler systems, leading to improved air quality and a smaller environmental impact.
The steam system's reliability is another noteworthy aspect. The interconnected nature of the network ensures redundancy and resilience. In case of a steam plant outage or maintenance, alternative sources can provide backup, minimizing disruptions to customers. This reliability is of paramount importance, especially during harsh winter months when the demand for heating is at its peak.
Moreover, the New York City steam system plays a crucial role in conserving valuable space. The compact nature of the steam pipes allows for efficient utilization of underground areas, reducing the need for large individual boiler rooms in buildings. This not only frees up valuable real estate but also improves safety by eliminating potential hazards associated with on-site boilers.
However, like any complex infrastructure, the steam system also faces its share of challenges. The aging infrastructure requires regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure its continued reliability and efficiency. As the city grows and evolves, the system needs to adapt to accommodate new developments and increased demand.
In recent years, there have been efforts to explore innovative technologies and solutions to enhance the steam system further. One such initiative is the utilization of waste heat from data centers to generate additional steam, promoting the efficient use of resources and reducing waste. Additionally, exploring renewable energy sources like geothermal heat or solar thermal could potentially diversify the system's fuel mix and reduce its environmental impact even further.
The New York City steam system is a testament to the city's pioneering spirit and commitment to sustainable urban development. It not only provides a reliable and cost-effective energy solution but also contributes to a cleaner environment. As New York City continues to grow and innovate, the steam system will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its energy landscape and ensuring a greener and more sustainable future.
Transitioning into new technologies and renewable energy sources is a promising direction for the future of the New York City steam system. As the city strives to reduce its carbon footprint and embrace cleaner energy alternatives, integrating renewable sources into the steam system could be a game-changer.
Geothermal heat, for example, harnesses the Earth's natural heat from underground reservoirs. By tapping into this sustainable energy source, the steam system could reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. Geothermal wells could be drilled to extract the heat, which would then be used to generate steam for heating and power generation.
Another avenue to explore is solar thermal energy. Solar collectors, such as mirrors or solar panels, could capture sunlight and convert it into heat. This heat could then be used to produce steam for the system. Implementing solar thermal technology alongside the existing steam plants would provide a renewable and clean energy source, particularly during the sunny summer months when demand for steam is lower.
Furthermore, the integration of waste heat recovery systems presents an exciting opportunity for the steam system. Large facilities like data centers, hospitals, and industrial complexes generate substantial amounts of waste heat. Instead of allowing this heat to go to waste, it can be captured and utilized to generate additional steam. By incorporating waste heat recovery into the system, the overall efficiency and sustainability of the steam system can be significantly improved.
While the adoption of new technologies and renewable energy sources may require initial investments and infrastructure upgrades, the long-term benefits are worth considering. Not only would it further reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, but it would also future-proof the steam system against potential fuel supply constraints or price fluctuations.
In addition to exploring new energy sources, ongoing maintenance and upgrades of the existing infrastructure are crucial. The aging pipes and equipment require regular inspections, repairs, and replacements to ensure the system's reliability and efficiency. Investing in modernizing the steam plants, optimizing distribution networks, and implementing smart monitoring systems can improve operational efficiency and reduce energy losses.
Public awareness and education about the benefits of the steam system and its sustainability efforts are also essential. Engaging with the community and providing information about the environmental advantages, energy savings, and air quality improvements associated with the steam system can foster a sense of ownership and pride among New Yorkers.
In conclusion, the New York City steam system stands as a shining example of a well-established and efficient energy infrastructure. Its centralized approach to steam production and distribution not only provides reliable and cost-effective energy for heating and power but also contributes to the city's sustainability goals. As the system evolves, incorporating renewable energy sources, exploring waste heat recovery, and embracing innovative technologies will ensure that the New York City steam system continues to be a model of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility for cities worldwide.
Why does New York have steam vents?
Does New York still use steam?
How are buildings in NYC heated?
What are the steam pipes in NYC?
New York has a network of pipes that move steam around the city, delivering it to buildings just like electricity. This hot steam is used for a variety of purposes, including cooling buildings.
Why does steam come out of vents in New York?
Most of the time, the steam you see is the condensation that results from cooler water, like rain, falling through manhole covers coming into contact with the extremely hot pipes below street level. You're more likely to experience this in cooler temperatures than in warmer ones. Don't be afraid, it's not dirty smoke.
How is NYC steam generated?
The vast majority of our steam—91 percent—is made from burning natural gas in one of our five steam-generating plants. Our boilers also use low-sulfur oil or clean-burning natural gas to produce steam. NYC also get steam delivered under contract with the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
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The Evolution and Impact of ERP Software in the UAE: A Comprehensive Analysis
ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. It is a type of software system that integrates and manages core business processes and functions within an organization. ERP software typically provides a centralized database and a suite of applications that automate and streamline business activities across various departments such as finance, human resources, supply chain management, manufacturing, sales, and customer service.
In the fast-paced landscape of business operations, efficient management of resources and information is critical for success. Enterprises in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have witnessed a remarkable transformation in their operational efficiency and competitiveness through the adoption of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software. This article delves into the evolution, benefits, challenges, and future trends of ERP software within the UAE context.
In recent decades, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software has played a transformative role in how businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) operate and manage their resources. This article delves into the evolution, adoption, and impact of ERP systems within the UAE's business landscape. By exploring the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the UAE's dynamic economy, we can better understand how ERP software has become an indispensable tool for organizations seeking efficiency, integration, and scalability.
Evolution of ERP Software
The adoption of ERP software in the UAE mirrors global trends but is uniquely shaped by regional business requirements and technological advancements. In the early 2000s, ERP systems gained traction among larger corporations seeking to streamline their complex processes. Major multinational ERP providers like SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics established a strong presence in the region, catering to diverse industry needs including finance, manufacturing, retail, and logistics.
A notable development in recent times is the movement towards cloud-centric ERP solutions.This transition offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, allowing businesses in the UAE to manage their operations more efficiently. Local ERP vendors have also emerged, offering tailored solutions that cater specifically to the nuances of the UAE market, such as compliance with local regulations and cultural practices.
Challenges and Obstacles
Despite the numerous benefits, ERP implementation in the UAE is not devoid of challenges. One prominent obstacle is the high initial investment required for ERP deployment, including software licensing, customization, and training costs. For smaller businesses, this financial commitment can be prohibitive, leading to slower adoption rates among SMEs.
Cultural factors and change management also pose challenges. Embracing new technology often requires a shift in organizational culture and employee mindsets. Resistance to change, coupled with the need for extensive training, can hinder the successful implementation of ERP systems in the UAE.
Furthermore, data security and privacy concerns are paramount, especially in light of stringent regulatory frameworks such as the UAE's Data Protection Law. Ensuring compliance with local data protection regulations adds complexity to ERP deployment, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures and data governance protocols.
The Business Landscape of the UAE
The UAE is renowned for its vibrant economy, diversified industries, and strategic geographical location. Over the years, the country has emerged as a global business hub attracting multinational corporations, SMEs, and startups alike. Key sectors such as finance, real estate, construction, logistics, tourism, and manufacturing contribute significantly to the nation's GDP. However, this diversification has also brought complexities in managing business operations efficiently.
The Emergence of ERP Solutions
As businesses in the UAE expanded and diversified, traditional methods of managing operations became inadequate. The need for integrated systems that could streamline processes across departments led to the rise of ERP solutions. Initially developed to manage manufacturing processes, ERP systems evolved to encompass finance, human resources, supply chain, customer relationship management, and more. This evolution mirrored the growth and diversification of UAE businesses.
Factors Driving ERP Adoption
Several factors have fueled the adoption of ERP software among businesses in the UAE:
Global Competition: The UAE's aspiration to compete on a global scale necessitated advanced operational efficiencies that ERP systems could deliver.
Regulatory Compliance: The UAE's regulatory environment, including VAT implementation, required robust financial and reporting capabilities that ERP systems could provide.
Scalability: With rapid economic growth, businesses needed scalable solutions to manage increasing complexities.
Integration Needs: As businesses diversified, the need for seamless integration across functions became crucial.
Challenges in ERP Implementation
While the benefits of ERP systems are substantial, implementing them poses challenges:
Cultural Factors: Embracing technological change and adopting new systems can face resistance due to cultural factors.
Resource Constraints: SMEs may struggle with the limited resources required for ERP implementation and customization.
Data Security and Privacy: The UAE's focus on data security and privacy necessitates robust ERP solutions compliant with local regulations.
Impact of ERP on UAE Businesses
The impact of ERP software on businesses in the UAE has been profound:
Improved Efficiency: Streamlined processes lead to increased productivity and reduced operational costs.
Enhanced Decision Making: Real-time data availability empowers businesses to make informed decisions.
Better Customer Experience: Integrated systems ensure seamless customer interactions and improved service delivery.
Regulatory Compliance: ERP systems aid in meeting regulatory requirements efficiently.
Key ERP Players in the UAE
Several global and regional ERP providers cater to the UAE market, offering tailored solutions to meet local business needs. Major players include SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, and Epicor, among others.
Future Trends and Innovations
Looking ahead, several trends are poised to shape the future of ERP software in the UAE. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are increasingly integrated into ERP systems, enabling predictive analytics and automation of routine tasks. This enhances decision-making capabilities and further optimizes business processes.
Mobile ERP applications are also gaining popularity, allowing stakeholders to access critical business data on the go. The rise of Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT) is driving demand for ERP solutions that can seamlessly integrate with smart devices and sensors, enabling real-time monitoring and control of operations.
Moreover, the convergence of ERP with other technologies like blockchain promises enhanced transparency and security in supply chain management, crucial for industries like healthcare and finance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ERP software has become an integral component of the UAE's business ecosystem, driving efficiency, integration, and growth across diverse sectors. While challenges exist, the transformative impact of ERP systems on businesses in the UAE underscores their importance in navigating complex operational landscapes. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the role of ERP in shaping the future of business in the UAE.ERP software has emerged as a transformative tool for businesses in the UAE, driving efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness across industries. Despite challenges such as high costs and cultural adaptation, the benefits of ERP implementation are substantial, ranging from streamlined operations to improved customer satisfaction. Looking ahead, the evolution of ERP software in the UAE is poised to align with global technological advancements, incorporating AI, IoT, and blockchain to unlock new possibilities for business growth and development. As enterprises continue to navigate the digital landscape, ERP remains a cornerstone of strategic management, enabling organizations to thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic marketplace.
In summary, ERP software has been a game-changer for businesses in the UAE, enabling them to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and adapt to a rapidly evolving marketplace. As the UAE continues to position itself as a global economic powerhouse, the role of ERP systems will remain pivotal in supporting the growth and sustainability of businesses across various sectors.
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The Future of Energy Management: Submetering Commercial Buildings
As concerns about sustainability and energy efficiency continue to grow, the need for effective energy management solutions becomes increasingly paramount, particularly in the commercial sector. Among the emerging technologies driving this evolution, submetering stands out as a powerful tool for optimizing energy usage and reducing costs. With Roshan Energy leading the charge, let's delve into the future of energy management through submetering in commercial buildings.
Submetering involves the installation of additional meters within a building to monitor and measure the energy consumption of individual tenants, floors, or specific equipment. Unlike traditional utility meters, which provide only aggregated data for the entire building, submeters offer granular insights into energy usage patterns, enabling more accurate analysis and targeted efficiency measures.
One of the primary advantages of submetering is its ability to promote accountability and transparency among tenants. By accurately tracking energy usage at the tenant level, property owners and managers can allocate costs based on actual consumption, encouraging tenants to adopt more energy-efficient practices and behaviors. This not only fosters a culture of sustainability but also incentivizes tenants to actively participate in energy conservation efforts.
Moreover, submetering facilitates data-driven decision-making and performance optimization for building operators. By collecting real-time data on energy consumption, trends, and anomalies, operators can identify areas of inefficiency and implement targeted interventions to improve energy performance. Whether it's optimizing HVAC systems, upgrading lighting fixtures, or implementing demand response strategies, submetering empowers building managers to make informed decisions that drive measurable results.
In addition to promoting energy efficiency and cost savings, submetering plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. By reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, commercial buildings equipped with submetering systems contribute to broader efforts to mitigate climate change and build more resilient communities. As governments and regulatory bodies increasingly prioritize sustainability initiatives, submetering emerges as a strategic investment for building owners seeking to align with evolving regulations and industry standards.
Furthermore, submetering offers benefits beyond energy management, including enhanced tenant comfort and satisfaction. By identifying and addressing comfort issues such as temperature fluctuations or poor indoor air quality, building operators can create healthier and more productive indoor environments, thereby enhancing tenant retention and attracting new occupants. Additionally, submetering commercial building data can be leveraged to provide tenants with personalized energy usage insights and recommendations, empowering them to take control of their energy consumption and reduce utility costs.
As the demand for energy-efficient buildings continues to rise, the adoption of submetering technology is poised to become increasingly prevalent in the commercial real estate sector. With its proven ability to drive tangible results in terms of energy savings, cost reduction, and environmental impact, submetering represents a critical component of modern energy management strategies.
At Roshan Energy, we are committed to helping commercial building owners and operators unlock the full potential of submetering technology. Through our comprehensive solutions and expertise in energy management, we empower our clients to optimize performance, reduce costs, and create sustainable built environments for the future.
In conclusion, the future of energy management lies in innovative solutions like submetering, which offer unparalleled insights and opportunities for optimization in commercial buildings. With Roshan Energy as your partner, you can harness the power of submetering to drive efficiency, sustainability, and success in the evolving landscape of commercial real estate.
#Residential Electric Submetering#Multifamily Utility Submetering#Electric Submetering California#Commercial Eliectric Submetering#Utility Cost Recovery California
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Skyscrapers also feed off the architectural sector’s warped relationship with technology. Architectural historian Barnabas Calder has documented how building heights have progressively bumped up every time new, fossil-fuel-hungry technologies, equipment and materials emerged: structural steel that could carry increasing tension forces; hydraulic lifting equipment that did not need deep underground pistons; and mechanical fire suppression, air, heat and water supplies that could work to dizzying heights. Today, enthusiasts promise further ‘progress’, from new damping systems, advanced concrete admixtures and complicated diagrid structures. Across the world, the time, money and energy of the built environment sector is funnelled into expensive luxury developments, projects in needlessly challenging physical environments, and rebuilds of perfectly functional spaces. Skyscrapers are the ultimate symbol of a real-estate system that is diverting the construction sector away from the urgent, under-resourced task of retrofits, affordable home creation, maintenance and material recycling.
Martha Dillon, Death to the skyscraper
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Upcoming Developing Areas In Hyderabad 2024
Hyderabad is expected to experience rapid expansion in 2024 as a result of the advent of emerging areas that have the potential to completely alter the cityscape. Strong infrastructural initiatives, thriving real estate projects, and a dedication to sustainable urban planning are all evident in these designated zones. The smooth transition of technology centers, business districts, and residential complexes, which creates a lively and dynamic atmosphere for both inhabitants and businesses, is indicative of the city’s growth. These specially named Developing Areas in Hyderabad are shining examples of progress as the city of Hyderabad moves through this revolutionary phase. They offer profitable investment opportunities and open the door to a more contemporary way of life. Watch this space for updates on Hyderabad’s skyline’s spectacular metamorphosis in the years to come.
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Unlocking the Future: NFT Game Development Services
In the rapidly evolving gaming and blockchain technology landscape, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have emerged as a revolutionary concept, offering new possibilities for ownership, monetization, and in-game assets. At our NFT game development services, we harness the power of blockchain technology to create immersive and innovative gaming experiences that leverage the unique properties of NFTs.
NFTs are digital assets that are unique, indivisible, and easily verifiable on a blockchain network. Unlike traditional in-game assets, which are often owned and controlled by game developers, NFTs empower players to own their virtual belongings, allowing them to buy, sell, and trade assets within and outside the game environment.
Our NFT game development services encompass various tasks and technologies, from smart contract development and blockchain integration to game design and development. By leveraging blockchain technology, we create secure, transparent, decentralized gaming experiences that empower players and foster a sense of ownership and engagement.
One of the key advantages of NFT game development is the ability to create truly unique and rare digital assets that hold real-world value. From rare weapons and items to exclusive skins and collectibles, NFTs allow developers to create scarcity and demand within their games, driving engagement and monetization opportunities.
At our NFT game development services, we work closely with game developers, publishers, and brands to conceptualize, design, and develop NFT-powered games that push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Whether you're looking to create a blockchain-based trading card game, a virtual real estate simulator, or a decentralized virtual world, our team has the expertise and experience to bring your vision to life.
Our NFT game development process begins with a deep dive into your concept and goals, where we explore the potential applications of NFTs within your game and identify opportunities for innovation and engagement. From there, we collaborate with you to design the game mechanics, user experience, and monetization strategies that will drive success in the competitive gaming market.
One of the most exciting aspects of NFT game development is the potential for player-driven economies and ecosystems. By leveraging blockchain technology, we empower players to create, own, and trade assets within the game environment, fostering a vibrant and dynamic community of players and collectors.
Furthermore, NFT game development opens up new opportunities for collaboration and partnership between game developers, brands, and intellectual property owners. With NFTs, developers can create unique branded content and experiences that resonate with players and fans. In contrast, brands can leverage the popularity of gaming to reach new audiences and engage with their communities innovatively.
In conclusion, NFT game development services offer a glimpse into the future of gaming, where ownership, creativity, and engagement converge on the blockchain. With our expertise and experience, we are ready to help you unlock the full potential of NFTs and create immersive and innovative gaming experiences that captivate players and drive success in the ever-evolving gaming and blockchain technology world.
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Blockchain Use Cases: How it's Being Used in Healthcare, Real Estate, and More!
Blockchain technology is no longer just associated with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. In recent years, it has emerged as a game-changing technology with a wide range of applications across various industries. One of the most significant applications of blockchain technology is in healthcare and real estate. In this blog post, we will explore how blockchain is being used in these industries and more.
Healthcare
The healthcare industry is one of the most data-intensive industries. Medical records, patient information, and clinical trials are just a few examples of the vast amount of data that healthcare providers need to manage. Blockchain technology can help healthcare providers manage this data more efficiently and securely.
One of the most significant benefits of blockchain technology in healthcare is the ability to store data securely and transparently. Blockchain technology allows healthcare providers to store patient data in a decentralized network, which means that the data cannot be altered or deleted. This ensures that patient data is secure and protected from cyber attacks.
Another use case of blockchain technology in healthcare is the management of clinical trials. Clinical trials are an essential part of the drug development process, but they are often plagued by inefficiencies and fraud. Blockchain technology can help streamline the clinical trial process by providing a secure and transparent platform for managing trial data.
Real Estate
Real estate is another industry that is ripe for disruption by blockchain technology. One of the most significant challenges in real estate is the lack of transparency and trust between buyers, sellers, and intermediaries. Blockchain technology can help address these challenges by providing a secure and transparent platform for real estate transactions.
One of the most significant benefits of blockchain technology in real estate is the ability to streamline the buying and selling process. Blockchain technology can help automate many of the processes involved in real estate transactions, such as property title transfers, mortgage applications, and property inspections.
Another use case of blockchain technology in real estate is the creation of tokenized assets. Tokenized assets are digital representations of physical assets, such as real estate properties. Tokenization allows investors to buy and sell fractional ownership of these assets, which can help make real estate investing more accessible to a broader range of investors.
Other Use Cases
Blockchain technology has the potential to transform many other industries beyond healthcare and real estate. Here are a few other use cases of blockchain technology:
Supply Chain Management: Blockchain technology can help improve supply chain management by providing a secure and transparent platform for tracking goods and products from manufacturing to delivery.
Identity Management: Blockchain technology can help improve identity management by providing a secure and decentralized platform for storing and managing identity information.
Voting Systems: Blockchain technology can help improve voting systems by providing a secure and transparent platform for recording and counting votes.
Conclusion
Blockchain technology has the potential to transform many industries by providing a secure and transparent platform for managing data and transactions. Healthcare and real estate are just two examples of industries that can benefit from blockchain technology. As blockchain technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative use cases emerge in the future.
#blockchaintechnology#Healthcare#realestate#datasecurity#transparency#efficiency#clinicaltrials#supplychainmanagement#identity management#votingsystems#innovation
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