December 30, 2023

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Merry after Christmas!

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Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?

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Merry Christmas!

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TSG is live! And did an unwanted update.

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TSG is live!

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How to get a good solder joint?

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How to repair a cranking flashlight

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Trust the process.

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It was locked, But they still got in.

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Why is my Prime Account Expired? PSA #6

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Items For Surviving After Christmas

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Magic with a glass bowl and vegetable peeler

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Baofeng UV-5R What it really means

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Hanging out at the studio, again #3

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Internet Speed for Live Streaming on Major Platforms

Bitrate, frame rate and resolution are the three things you have to set when live streaming online. All of these factors will affect the quality of your video, how much processing power it takes to encode your video, and how much bandwidth it takes to broadcast your video. As a rule of thumb: it’s better to broadcast a steady video stream with a slightly lower resolution or frame rate than a super high-quality stream that is constantly buffering due to insufficient bandwidth or other network issues.

Here are the recommended Internet upload speeds for live streaming on major platforms. These include that 40% bandwidth buffer on top of the recommended bitrate (see above section):

Resolution
Frame rate        Twitch              YouTube           FacebookLive
HD 720p-30fps     3.2 – 5 Mbps        2 – 5Mbps         3 – 4 Mbps
HD 720p-60fps     4.4 – 6.2 Mbps      2.9 – 7.4Mbps     3 – 4 Mbps
FHD 1080p-30fps   4.4 – 6.2 Mbps      3.8 – 7.4 Mbps    6 – 7 Mbps
FHD 1080p-60fps   5.6 – 7.4 Mbps      5.6 – 11 Mbps     6 – 7 Mbps
QHD 1440p-30fps                       7.4 –15.8 Mbps
QHD 1440p-60fps                       11 – 21.8 Mbps
4k 2160p-30fps                        15.8 – 41 Mbps
4k 2160p-60fps                        24.2 – 61.5 Mbps

Giving Thanks 2023 style

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Hanging out at the studio, again

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Hanging out at the studio

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 I just find this very interesting.

A transit of Venus across the Sun occurs when the planet Venus passes directly between the Sun and Earth, appearing as a small, dark dot moving across the solar disk. This phenomenon is relatively rare and happens in pairs separated by eight years, with each pair occurring more than a century apart.

The transit of Venus is a celestial event that has been of great historical significance. The two transits that occur within a pair are approximately eight years apart, and the pairs themselves are separated by over a century. The last transit of Venus occurred on June 5-6, 2012, and the previous pair before that took place in 1874 and 1882.

Here's a simplified explanation of the phenomenon:

1. Orbital Dynamics:

   • Venus orbits the Sun at an average distance closer than Earth. However, Venus's orbit is tilted relative to Earth's orbit, so most of the time, Venus appears either above or below the Sun in our sky.

2. Transit Events:

   • Transits of Venus occur when Venus, Earth, and the Sun are aligned in a specific way. During these events, Venus passes between the Earth and the Sun.

3. Appearance and Duration:

   • During a transit, Venus appears as a small, dark disk moving across the face of the Sun. The size of Venus and the precise duration of the transit depend on the distance between Earth and Venus during the event.

4. Observation:

   • Transits of Venus are visible from Earth with proper eye protection or through solar viewing devices. Observers on Earth can see Venus as a tiny silhouette moving across the Sun's disk.

5. Historical Significance:

   • The transits of Venus have historical importance because they provided astronomers with an opportunity to measure the Earth-Sun distance, known as the astronomical unit (AU). By carefully timing the duration of the transit from different locations on Earth, scientists could use parallax to calculate the distance to Venus and, subsequently, the Earth-Sun distance.

The next pair of transits of Venus is not expected until December 10-11, 2117, and December 8, 2125. These events are rare and are often used by astronomers to refine their understanding of the solar system and the distances between planets.

ISS Transit Simulation

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The International Space Station

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PSA Credit Card Scam Alert #5

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The BEST Bulletproof vest and more

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I hear the repeater, but not my other radio

Is there something wrong?

In a duplex radio communication system, where you have two walkie-talkies trying to communicate with each other through a repeater, it is possible for both walkie-talkies to receive signals from the repeater but not hear each other when they are in close proximity. This situation can occur due to the way duplex communication systems are designed and the concept of the "duplex offset."

Here's an explanation of why this happens:

1. Duplex Communication and Frequency Offset:

   In a duplex communication system, one radio (walkie-talkie) transmits on one frequency while the other radio receives on a different frequency. This is necessary to avoid interference because a single radio can't transmit and receive on the same frequency simultaneously.

2. Duplex Offset:

   To prevent interference and allow for simultaneous communication, there is typically a frequency offset between the transmit and receive frequencies. This offset ensures that the two radios don't interfere with each other while communicating through a repeater.

3. Communication through the Repeater:

   When you transmit from one walkie-talkie to the repeater, the repeater receives your transmission on one frequency and then retransmits it on another frequency. The second walkie-talkie receives the repeater's transmission on this different frequency.

4. Close Proximity Issue:

   When both walkie-talkies are very close to each other, their own transmissions can interfere with each other due to "near-far" interference. The transmitted signal from one walkie-talkie can be strong enough to saturate the other walkie-talkie's receiver, making it unable to hear the distant transmission from the repeater.

To address this issue and allow for simultaneous communication between the walkie-talkies in close proximity, some advanced systems use technologies like Time-Division Duplex (TDD) or digital signal processing to manage transmissions more effectively. These systems allow the walkie-talkies to switch quickly between transmit and receive modes, reducing the chances of self-interference.

However, in traditional analog duplex systems, when both walkie-talkies are very close together, they may have difficulty hearing each other due to the near-far interference problem. In such cases, it's often better to communicate directly on a simplex frequency without using the repeater when you are in close proximity.

Latest NOAA Images

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They try real hard to steal your money #4

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I'm told I lost it all! PSA

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How To Receive Satellite Imagery

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2 back to back Yahoo warnings!

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The internet is mad at me - PSA

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Are 2 way radios valuable?

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ISS overhead tracking

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A look at ISS as it crosses over the US

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Oct 14, 2023 LIVE Annular Eclipse!

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Here is a warmup to tomorrow's Eclipse!

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DYI j-pole

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What you need to fix your Air Conditioner

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How to use a Combination Square

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What GMRS is good for.

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Are you ready for this big event?

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Klein Tools Multimeter Overview MM420

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How to replace a ceiling fan switch.

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How to do a road trip, with purpose

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How to do a Road Trip with Purpose

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Streamlight MacroStream USB overview

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Head winds over 75mph! #roadtrip #unbelievable

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Hanging on for dear life!

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My new lawnmower?

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TSG is going live!

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Fix the Walkie Talkies with Flex Seal

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my new mic!

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SCAM Alert! #centraltexas #diy #scam

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Fixing the CRAFTSMAN Riding Lawn Mower

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How To Start Your Lawn Mower

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Baofeng UV-5R now what? #centraltexas #radio #baofeng #flyswatter

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Baofeng UV-5R

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Making a Murphy Bed Part 4

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This is how to re-use this container! #centraltexas #builder

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These are very loud!

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Making a Murphy Bed Part 3

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A spider bite can kill you!

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Making a Murphy Bed part 2

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My Murphy Bed came with this weapon!

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Who’s knocking at the door?

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Making a Murphy Bed

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Uniden Bearcat BC200XLT

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How I Fix A Tow Strap we used fire!

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Make Your Own Watch Crystal Protector

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Can you die from a spider bite?

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Cloacitis (Vent Gleet): 

Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction:

Cloacitis, commonly known as vent gleet, is a condition that affects poultry, particularly chickens. It primarily affects the vent area, which is the opening through which birds eliminate waste and lay eggs. Vent gleet can cause discomfort, irritation, and infection, leading to a decline in the overall health of the affected bird. In this blog post, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for cloacitis.

Causes of Cloacitis:

• Poor hygiene: Dirty living conditions, unclean bedding, or soiled feathers can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, leading to cloacitis.
• Fungal or bacterial infection: Candida spp. (yeast) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) are common pathogens associated with vent gleet. These microorganisms can infect the vent area and cause inflammation.
• Nutritional imbalances: An inadequate diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken a bird's immune system, making it more susceptible to infections.
• Stress: High-stress levels, overcrowding, or sudden changes in the bird's environment can weaken its immune system and contribute to the development of vent gleet.

Symptoms of Cloacitis:

• Foul-smelling discharge: One of the most common symptoms of vent gleet is the presence of a foul-smelling, yellowish or white discharge from the vent area.
• Feather loss: Affected birds may experience feather loss around the vent region due to irritation and constant pecking or scratching.
• Redness and swelling: Inflamed and reddened tissue around the vent is another visible sign of cloacitis.
• Reduced egg production: Hens suffering from vent gleet may lay fewer eggs or stop laying altogether due to the discomfort caused by the condition.
•  General signs of illness: Birds with cloacitis may display signs of lethargy, decreased appetite, and weight loss.

Treatment and Management:

• Improved hygiene: Maintaining a clean and dry environment is crucial to prevent and manage cloacitis. Regularly clean the coop, remove soiled bedding, and ensure proper ventilation.
• Topical treatments: Gently clean the vent area with warm water and mild antiseptic solutions to remove any discharge. Applying an antifungal or antibacterial ointment, as recommended by a veterinarian, can help combat the infection.
• Nutritional support: Provide a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to boost the bird's immune system. Consult a poultry nutrition expert or veterinarian to determine the appropriate feed for your birds.
• Quarantine and separate affected birds: Isolating birds with vent gleet can help prevent the spread of the infection to healthy individuals. Provide a separate area with clean bedding, ample space, and proper nutrition for the affected bird.
• Veterinary care: If the symptoms persist or worsen despite initial treatment attempts, it is advisable to seek professional veterinary assistance. A veterinarian can conduct further tests, prescribe appropriate medications, and provide specific advice based on the bird's condition.

Preventing Cloacitis:

• Clean living environment: Regularly clean the coop, remove feces and wet bedding, and provide clean and dry nesting areas.
• Balanced diet: Ensure your birds receive a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements, including adequate protein and vitamins.
• Stress reduction: Minimize stressors such as overcrowding, sudden changes in the environment, or predator threats to help maintain a robust immune system.
• Regular health checks: Monitor your birds regularly for signs of illness, and promptly address any concerns to prevent the development of cloacitis or other health issues.

Conclusion:

Cloacitis, or vent gleet, can be a distressing condition for poultry owners and detrimental to the affected birds' well-being. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing appropriate treatment and prevention strategies, it is possible to manage and reduce the occurrence of cloacitis in your flock. Remember, consulting a veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and optimal care for your birds' health.

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How to eradicate oak apples

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Oak Apple: Nature's Curious Creation

Nature never ceases to amaze us with its fascinating creations, and one such marvel is the oak apple. This peculiar growth on oak trees has captured the curiosity of many nature enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll delve into the intriguing world of oak apples, exploring what they are, how they are formed, and the role they play in the ecosystem.

The Enigmatic Oak Apple

An oak apple, also known as an oak gall, is an unusual structure formed on oak trees. Despite its name, an oak apple is not an actual apple, but rather a type of gall—a growth or swelling on the tree caused by the interaction between the oak tree and certain species of wasps. These wasps belong to the family Cynipidae, and they induce the formation of the oak apple as part of their life cycle.

Formation of Oak Apples

The life cycle of the oak apple begins when a female wasp lays her eggs on the developing buds or leaves of an oak tree. As a response to the wasp's egg-laying activity, the tree initiates a complex defense mechanism. It releases certain chemicals and hormones, triggering the growth of a protective structure around the eggs. This structure is the oak apple.

As the eggs hatch, the larvae of the wasps find themselves enclosed within the oak apple's protective walls. They feed on the gall tissue and develop within the structure, remaining safely hidden from predators and harsh environmental conditions. The gall provides a sheltered and nutrient-rich environment for the growing wasp larvae.

Role in the Ecosystem

Oak apples serve as microhabitats for a variety of organisms. Apart from providing a protective shelter for the wasp larvae, they also attract other insects and microorganisms. The intricate structure of the gall provides niches for various species, including other insects, spiders, mites, and fungi. This creates a miniature ecosystem within the confines of the oak apple, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the tree.

Additionally, oak apples have historically been used by humans for various purposes. They were once prized for their high tannin content, which made them valuable in tanning leather. In some cultures, the galls were also used as a source of natural dye.

In Closing:

The oak apple, a fascinating product of nature's ingenuity, adds an element of wonder to the world of trees. These peculiar growths not only serve as protective homes for wasp larvae but also create microhabitats for a diverse array of organisms. Exploring the intricate relationship between the oak tree, the wasp, and the oak apple is a testament to the interconnectedness and complexity of the natural world.

So, the next time you come across an oak apple, take a moment to appreciate the hidden stories it holds within its protective walls—a testament to the fascinating ways in which nature weaves its intricate tapestry.

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Burning old documents can be so cathartic

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How do I restart my iPad?

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Is There a Downside for going Solar?

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Transcript: Mayor Adams Commits to Reducing City’s Food-Based Emissions by 33 Percent by 2030 After Releasing new Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Incorporating Emissions From Food

You can't make this stuff up folks. Read it for yourself. 

What if these same hospitals start creating Soylent Green? I hope I'm just being a nut, but please remember what you read here. Click the title above to read it for yourself.

The Hidden Dangers of TikTok: 

An Educational Public Service Announcement

In the digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of our lives. Among these platforms, TikTok has surged in popularity, captivating millions of users worldwide. While TikTok offers an engaging and creative space for self-expression, it is crucial to understand and address the potential dangers associated with its use. This educational public service announcement aims to shed light on the hidden risks of TikTok and empower users to make informed decisions.

1. Privacy Concerns:

TikTok's meteoric rise has come hand in hand with concerns over user privacy. The app collects a vast amount of personal information, including user location, browsing history, and behavioral patterns. This data can be shared with third parties and potentially compromise user privacy. It is vital to review and understand TikTok's privacy policies, adjust privacy settings, and be cautious when sharing personal information online.

2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:

TikTok's interactive nature opens the door to cyberbullying and online harassment. Users can receive hurtful comments, negative feedback, and even face targeted attacks. The app's duet and stitching features allow others to create videos using a user's content, which may be misused or manipulated. Promoting kindness, reporting abusive behavior, and utilizing blocking features are essential in combating cyberbullying on TikTok.

3. Inappropriate Content Exposure:

TikTok's algorithmic content recommendation system poses the risk of exposing users, especially young individuals, to inappropriate content. Although the platform has implemented measures to filter and remove explicit material, there remains a possibility of encountering unsuitable content. Parents and guardians should exercise parental controls, monitor their children's activities, and engage in open discussions to ensure a safe online experience.

4. Mental Health Implications:

The addictive nature of TikTok, characterized by endless scrolling and the constant pursuit of viral content, can negatively impact mental health. Spending excessive time on the app may lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Users should establish healthy boundaries, limit screen time, and engage in offline activities to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

5. Influence of Dangerous Challenges:

TikTok has witnessed the emergence of various viral challenges, some of which pose significant risks to users' safety and well-being. Participants may engage in dangerous stunts, physical harm, or harmful behavior without fully understanding the consequences. It is crucial to exercise critical thinking, avoid participating in risky challenges, and report any harmful content to protect oneself and others.

Conclusion:

While TikTok provides an entertaining and creative outlet, it is essential to approach its usage with caution. Understanding the potential risks associated with the platform empowers users to make informed decisions and take steps to protect their privacy, well-being, and mental health. By prioritizing digital literacy, fostering a supportive online community, and promoting responsible use, we can navigate the world of TikTok and other social media platforms safely and responsibly. Remember, the power to create a positive digital environment lies in our hands.