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Tech / How Good Comes from Terrible Events!
« on: November 20, 2022, 11:49:02 AM »
How monoclonal antibodies lost the fight with new COVID variants
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[R]esearch on and rapid development of antibody treatments has opened up possibilities beyond COVID. "It has improved the production of monoclonals for cancer, for immunologic diseases," says Dieffenbach, "It's going to be easier to produce monoclonals in the future because of the lessons learned from SARS-CoV-2. Nothing was wasted here."
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Tech / For Twitter Users
« on: November 20, 2022, 09:50:11 AM »
Like Facebook, Twitter doesn't believe you could ever want to delete your account. 
Somehow they both think you must have made some kind of mistake. 
The following link explains what has to happen before your account is actually "deleted". It will take 30 days of complete inactivity before your account is "deleted". Be sure any other app that is using Twitter has completely eliminated its Twitter activity, especially any activity that would be using your username and/or password.
How to deactivate your Twitter account
NOTE:
BTW, if you simply can't stand not knowing the trivia in the life of your "friends", here are some links to Mastadon:
Somehow they both think you must have made some kind of mistake. The following link explains what has to happen before your account is actually "deleted". It will take 30 days of complete inactivity before your account is "deleted". Be sure any other app that is using Twitter has completely eliminated its Twitter activity, especially any activity that would be using your username and/or password.
How to deactivate your Twitter account
NOTE:
Quote
Twitter may retain some information on your deactivated account to ensure the safety and security of its platform and people using Twitter. More information can be found here.
BTW, if you simply can't stand not knowing the trivia in the life of your "friends", here are some links to Mastadon:
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Tech / Big Sur Update slower than snail!
« on: October 31, 2022, 10:18:21 PM »
I'm about to Shutdown my Mac as it can't get past "About 15 minutes remaining" in the Preparing function. I suspect the real problem is Spotlight; I deleted hundreds of files today. Quit/re-opened System Prefs, it now says 'only' 10 minutes remaining.
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Tech / Who sent the first email from the ISS?
« on: October 29, 2022, 06:02:55 PM »
And, what computer did they use?
Answer: Next week!
Answer: Next week!
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Tech / Interface Fun! (not)
« on: October 28, 2022, 02:51:12 PM »
My old Apple WiFi box is getting a little 'long in the tooth', hasn't even been offered for many years! I can only get two bars where I usually sit to operate our Apple TV box. That means the software remote can not connect so I could select anything. Although getting up to change channels does recall the "good old days" of watching the little black and white, often 'snowy' TV images, I have enough real-world irritations already.
So, I sprung for a less expensive and much newer WiFi router. The aptly named(?!) TP-Link Archer AX3000 6G box seemed to have the best reviews. (I assumed the higher the number [300, 450, etc.] the better!
) Ordered it from Newegg (no shipping fee) and it arrived within two days! I could hardly wait to start the assumed difficult installation process. 
A day later, I decided to try to get it set up. I read through the complete installation booklet; all two pages and reserved the morning hours for the install... which didn't work, of course. Now I needed to look at some videos from TP-Link Support. Of course, I could not access the web until I reconnected the old Apple hardware and the Ethernet cables to my Mac.
Two vids promised "No problems!". The first, basic vid was only two sections long! Aha! They learned from the Apple method; step one, turn it ON, step two — there is no "step two"! Not so fast young Will Robinson! Actually, the first "step" has 6 distinct actions that include a restart of the cable modem ( a good 4 minute coffee break). The second "step" was five more actions ending with clicking the ubiquitous "Save" button. Naturally, the "Quick" install did not work, either.
The last vid had seven "steps", each with at least four actions and several "if this doesn't work, skip to step X and do not collect $200" actions. They left out the many "count to ten and check your blood pressure" actions.
To make a long story longer, I put everything away for two days. In this "restful" time, I listened and copied all the spoken directions of the two vids for reference. After all, I couldn't watch the vids while not being connected to the Support site!! This only took a few hours and three pages of text.
Apparently, copying and printing all those instructions convinced the router that I really wanted to have it work, even if it would be surrounded by Apple devices. I also hid the old Apple router for good measure!
I am happy to say that I am now using a new (and apparently slightly better antennaed [is that a wurd?]) WiFi router! I still get three bars at the preferred Apple TV controlling location! 
Just to take up some more TS server space, take a look at what was a confusing interface from the router. I stared at the little orange dot on the 'world' icon waiting for it to change to green — it never did/will! BTW, you cannot use the power strength bars on your devices to indicate web access. Once again, those are simply 'power strength' bars!
So, I sprung for a less expensive and much newer WiFi router. The aptly named(?!) TP-Link Archer AX3000 6G box seemed to have the best reviews. (I assumed the higher the number [300, 450, etc.] the better!
) Ordered it from Newegg (no shipping fee) and it arrived within two days! I could hardly wait to start the assumed difficult installation process. A day later, I decided to try to get it set up. I read through the complete installation booklet; all two pages and reserved the morning hours for the install... which didn't work, of course. Now I needed to look at some videos from TP-Link Support. Of course, I could not access the web until I reconnected the old Apple hardware and the Ethernet cables to my Mac.
Two vids promised "No problems!". The first, basic vid was only two sections long! Aha! They learned from the Apple method; step one, turn it ON, step two — there is no "step two"! Not so fast young Will Robinson! Actually, the first "step" has 6 distinct actions that include a restart of the cable modem ( a good 4 minute coffee break). The second "step" was five more actions ending with clicking the ubiquitous "Save" button. Naturally, the "Quick" install did not work, either.
The last vid had seven "steps", each with at least four actions and several "if this doesn't work, skip to step X and do not collect $200" actions. They left out the many "count to ten and check your blood pressure" actions.
To make a long story longer, I put everything away for two days. In this "restful" time, I listened and copied all the spoken directions of the two vids for reference. After all, I couldn't watch the vids while not being connected to the Support site!!
This only took a few hours and three pages of text.Apparently, copying and printing all those instructions convinced the router that I really wanted to have it work, even if it would be surrounded by Apple devices. I also hid the old Apple router for good measure!
I am happy to say that I am now using a new (and apparently slightly better antennaed [is that a wurd?]) WiFi router! I still get three bars at the preferred Apple TV controlling location! Just to take up some more TS server space, take a look at what was a confusing interface from the router. I stared at the little orange dot on the 'world' icon waiting for it to change to green — it never did/will! BTW, you cannot use the power strength bars on your devices to indicate web access. Once again, those are simply 'power strength' bars!
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Tech / USPS phishing message.
« on: July 12, 2022, 02:30:15 PM »
I have the USPS send me a message each day that shows an image of any mail coming to my physical mailbox. We quite often get mail that should have gone to others on our street. I know that some of our mail has gone to the same house number but on different streets. So the morning email gives me a "heads up" that there may have been another "erer".
However, the USPS servers are probably no better protected than any other. There are reports of malicious messages claiming to be from USPS; I got one today:
All links resolved to "http: // miami . cvqualitybuilders.com / wp-content/..." Don't even care if that's a hacked site. Simply marking as SPAM in SPAMSieve.
Just another reminder: Never, EVER click a link in an email (nor a text message).
So the morning email gives me a "heads up" that there may have been another "erer". However, the USPS servers are probably no better protected than any other. There are reports of malicious messages claiming to be from USPS; I got one today:
Quote
From:USPostalServiceOf course, the "from" url is not www . uspsoig . gov/...
Subject:USPS ticket No.3965
We've got a new message for you
An email containing confidential personal information was sent to you
All links resolved to "http: // miami . cvqualitybuilders.com / wp-content/..." Don't even care if that's a hacked site. Simply marking as SPAM in SPAMSieve.
Just another reminder: Never, EVER click a link in an email (nor a text message).
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Tech / Disappearing emails?
« on: June 08, 2022, 12:43:07 PM »
I keep most messages from TS Admin in a cleverly named Mailbox entitled "Techsurvivors". Yesterday, I got a message from one of the Admin about an attempt by someone to join TS. I should have received the same message about this that he did. I finally found that message, and a copy of his, in the "Today" Smart Mailbox. I don't think I created that mailbox, I assume Apple did that for me (without my asking).
I was surprised that neither of those messages were in the mailbox I had created specifically for that kind of email. In fact, my "Techsurvivors" mailbox was completely empty! 
I checked that 'TS' mailbox again this morning, expecting the two in yesterdays "Today" Smart Mailbox would be transferred. Nope! That 'TS' mailbox was still completely empty! "This is not write", I exclaimed!!
No cats were harmed by my outburst.
Search to the rescue! I could re-read those messages by searching for the Admin's name or a few of the words in the message title. "Search" also claimed that those messages were in the 'TS' mailbox. But, selecting that mailbox (with or without the search text box active) still displayed nothing. Zilch. Nada. A completely empty mailbox!!!
I posted a question at the Apple Discussions after not finding any help.
In Mail, there is a "Rebuild" in the "Mailbox" menu list. I thought about using that function but, erring on theparanoidsafe side, I decided to first Export the mailbox. Perhaps that is what awoke Mail, I dunno, but immediately after exporting, Mail now displayed all the hiding messages! At least they are for now. Poll: Will I be able to remember this "fix" next time? 
I was surprised that neither of those messages were in the mailbox I had created specifically for that kind of email. In fact, my "Techsurvivors" mailbox was completely empty!
I checked that 'TS' mailbox again this morning, expecting the two in yesterdays "Today" Smart Mailbox would be transferred. Nope! That 'TS' mailbox was still completely empty! "This is not write", I exclaimed!!
No cats were harmed by my outburst. Search to the rescue! I could re-read those messages by searching for the Admin's name or a few of the words in the message title. "Search" also claimed that those messages were in the 'TS' mailbox. But, selecting that mailbox (with or without the search text box active) still displayed nothing. Zilch. Nada. A completely empty mailbox!!!
I posted a question at the Apple Discussions after not finding any help.
In Mail, there is a "Rebuild" in the "Mailbox" menu list. I thought about using that function but, erring on the
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Tech / Aid for Ukraine (Duplicate of thread on Community side)
« on: June 07, 2022, 09:21:32 AM »
If you don't use any software from St. Claire Software, you probably missed seeing the following email:
Quote
I'm Jon Gotow, owner and lead developer at St. Clair Software. I don't send many emails, but I'd like to ask you once more to support folks in what's now a very war-torn Ukraine.I highly recommend Charity Navigator. CharityWatch looks worthy of consideration but I have not used them in verifying any charity.
It's been more than 100 days since Russia invaded Ukraine, and we've watched Russia's tactics go from bad to horrific. Even though the constant news reports can be numbing, we can't forget that there are millions of people suffering as a result.
Ukrainians have courageously mobilized themselves in innumerable ways, many joining the military and many more providing support for troops and refugees. As you may already know, my friend and fellow Mac developer in Kyiv, Eugene Krupnov, has been raising money by offering his well-regarded Mac app, Unclutter, in return for donations. He's posted a progress report detailing donations and supplies they've distributed. If you donated, thank you!
How to Help
Eugene is continuing to offer copies of his Unclutter app for donations of $10 USD or more. Proceeds are used to provide medical supplies, equipment, and charitable donations within Ukraine. Click below to donate and get a copy of Unclutter in the process.
If you'd prefer to donate through a larger organization (and not get free software), there are a number of charities providing resources to Ukraine. The Ukrainian Red Cross Society is a very direct avenue - they supply food, hygienic products, medicines, water, bed linen and other essentials to those that need it. Click below to donate to the Ukrainian Red Cross.
If you've read this far, I very much appreciate your time. This conflict has completely upended the lives and businesses of so many people, including many Mac developers (Unclutter, Setapp, MacPaw, Nektony, Readdle, BeLight, and Skylum to name a few). Their worlds will never be the same, and they need whatever support we can give them.
And a reminder: Please be careful when choosing a charity. Events like this can bring out both the best and the worst in people. Charity Navigator and CharityWatch are good resources when researching charitable organizations.
Thank you,
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Tech / Five Year Anniversary of Take Control Books!
« on: April 29, 2022, 05:49:26 PM »
Got an announcement today:
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...For five days, from 5/1 through 5/5, selected Take Control titles will be on sale for just $5 each. (We’re still firming up the list, but we think about a third of the books in our catalog will be on sale.)...This is a great opportunity to pick up some of those books that will make you an expert on many topics!
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Tech / Anyone Using Monterey and Universal Control?
« on: March 28, 2022, 05:19:45 PM »
Universal Control sounds like something that might tempt me to update to Monterey. Basically, it allows you to use your Mac keyboard and/or track pad on an iPad (iOS15.4 and later). It also works between two Macs, but that is already available with Sharing.
I say "might tempt me" just because the iOS keyboard are so lame; no keys for control/option nor command. On the other hand, I rarely work on my iPad while using my Mac. Oh well, keep up the improvements in iOS, Apple. One day it might be as useful as a real operating system.
Although, you can drag and drop items (what kind?) off the iDevice onto a Mac.
Basically, it allows you to use your Mac keyboard and/or track pad on an iPad (iOS15.4 and later). It also works between two Macs, but that is already available with Sharing.I say "might tempt me" just because the iOS keyboard are so lame; no keys for control/option nor command. On the other hand, I rarely work on my iPad while using my Mac. Oh well, keep up the improvements in iOS, Apple. One day it might be as useful as a real operating system.
Quote from: Josh Centers, TidBITS
...you can copy data on one device with Command-C, move the pointer to another device, and paste into an app on the second device with Command-VObviously you still can't do the opposite.
Although, you can drag and drop items (what kind?) off the iDevice onto a Mac.
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Community / Throwing the Baby Out with the Bathwater?
« on: March 28, 2022, 11:16:22 AM »
Ever heard of "Rumble"? Here's a description of their "goal":
As much as I dislike Amazon/Google/Microsoft/other internet giants, is that really what we need? Do we really want a "giant" with no regard to what they "publish". Can Truth withstand an internet like that? Truth is already under attack by extremists and conspiracists.
Quote from: Jeremy W. Peters, NYT
Rumble has already built out its own cloud service infrastructure and video streaming capacity, offering it and its partners greater independence from the Amazons and Microsofts of the internet — and the assurance that they can’t be shut down if one of those providers decides to pull the plug over objectionable content.
As much as I dislike Amazon/Google/Microsoft/other internet giants, is that really what we need? Do we really want a "giant" with no regard to what they "publish". Can Truth withstand an internet like that? Truth is already under attack by extremists and conspiracists.
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Tech / Creator of .gif format dies
« on: March 24, 2022, 09:11:57 AM »
Beloved creator of the GIF dies following complications from COVID
More info/details (edited link) BTW, he said the pronunciation is the same as the peanut butter: "JIF"
Quote
In the weeks leading up to March 1, Kathaleen said, Steve could be found in his model-train room tinkering with his creations and computer programming, one of his constants in life, which led to the creation of the GIF file format in 1987 while he was at CompuServe.Worked with code, interested in model railroading and aircraft; I knew there was a reason he was a good man!
"I think the first GIF was a picture of a plane. It was a long time ago," Steve told the Daily Dot in a rare interview via Facebook in May 2012.
The compressed format of the GIF allowed slow modem connections of the 1980s to transfer images more efficiently.
More info/details (edited link) BTW, he said the pronunciation is the same as the peanut butter: "JIF"
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Community / Speaking of Dates…
« on: March 14, 2022, 08:25:31 PM »
It’s that day again!!! 
Happi pi Day
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