Trade Tariffs, 2025

Trade Tariffs, 2025

   The as-seen-on-tv, "Tariff spat", mostly aimed at China, tuckered out. The goal was to decrease trade deficits. Imports into the U.S. completely overwhelm exports. Products, supposedly, made in America are only partials. In the beginning, it seemed as if the Trump administration was going for unopposed global respect. Not the matter, at all. Gemini, A.I., used the term "multifaceted" to describe the tariff issues. Basically, China raised the stakes. Most likely, the U.S. economy will observe an increase in import foreign relations tactics. Trump showed his hand.

   Let's use the terms economic pressure and market volatility. President Trump imposed market pressure, and those pressures were matched. Stock and bond markets fluttered. All fingers pointed at D.T., and his tariff concerns. Economists and various organizations like the Federal Reserve and OECD warned of downgraded GDP growth projections and rising expectations of a recession, because of the tariffs.

   Currently, identified tariff spat economic changes:

-Consumer price index increased 0.1% in May 2025

-Foods prices tripped up, 0.3%; but eggs were a bit cheaper

-Core CPI gains 0.1%; increases 2.8% year-on-year

(reuters)

   In May 2025, a new agreement with China was announced with reciprocal tariff reductions. Concerns for Domestic Industries and Consumers aimed at absorbing costs or finding alternative suppliers, was a persistent concern. In some instances, Trump's tariff actions faced legal challenges. In May 2025, the United States Court of International Trade vacated some "reciprocal tariffs," ruling that Trump had overstepped his authority. Such rulings could force a reconsideration or rollback of tariffs.

   Seemingly, nothing has gone awry. Tariffs are waning.  The tariff issue made someone, or some entity, inspiringly rich. The tariffs also placed some smaller companies in disarray.

   Our country deserves more respect, though. Good try Mr. President.

BDNF protein

     Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein that plays a crucial role in neuronal survival, growth, and plasticity, essential for learning and memory.   BDNF is primarily located in the brain, and the spinal cord. Specifically, it is found between nerve cells synapses. Cell to cell communication.  BDNF is found in several brain regions.  It is in the hypocampus, amygdala, cerebellum, and the cerebral cortex.

     It's involved in modulating neurotransmitters and is also widely expressed in the gut, and other tissues.  Exercise, particularly high-intensity exercise, can significantly increase BDNF levels.   It is known for the roles in neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and long term potentiation.  BDNF promotes the survival and growth of neurons, helping to maintain and repair the brain's neural network. It stimulates the PI3K/Akt and MAP/ERK pathways.

     BDNF acts as a modulator of, neurotransmitter function, influencing how neurons communicate with each other.  It activates CREB.  CREB induces APE1 expression.  Neuronal plasticity is the brain's ability to adapt and change in response to experience, learning, and memory.  It protects neurons from oxidative DNA damage induced cell death. BDNF has a role in axonal regeneration and remyelination, too.

      While exercise is a primary way to increase BDNF, other factors like sleep, diet, and stress management can also play a role. BDNF binds to TrkB.  TrkB triggers intracellular signaling pathways.  BDNF levels are associated with various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.  BDNF can bind p75NTR receptor.

     BDNF research shows its role in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

 

 

Tariff War Cryptos

     The escalating dynamics of a U.S.-led tariff war, while primarily a tool to rebalance trade relationships and protect domestic industries, could ripple into the cryptocurrency market in unexpected ways.  As tariffs disrupt traditional supply chains, inflate consumer prices, and strain global trade networks, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and stablecoins may gain traction as alternative hedges against economic uncertainty or tools for circumventing trade barriers.  Conversely, retaliatory measures and market volatility could also expose crypto assets to regulatory crackdowns or reduced investor risk appetite.  This interplay between trade policy and digital currencies highlights how geopolitical friction might reshape financial innovation—and vice versa—in an increasingly interconnected global economy.  

     This Tariff stimulated uncertainty gives rise to these three Cryptocurrencies to watch.

     Bitcoin (BTC).  Bitcoin’s dual role as a speculative asset and a potential inflation hedge makes it uniquely positioned during tariff conflicts. In the short term, tariffs may trigger risk aversion, causing Bitcoin to correlate with equities and dip alongside traditional markets.  Bitcoin fell 6.2% following Trump’s February 2025 tariff announcements as investors fled risky assets.  However, analysts argue that prolonged economic instability—such as stagflation or dollar weakening—could strengthen Bitcoin’s appeal as “digital gold.”  If tariffs accelerate inflation and erode trust in fiat currencies, Bitcoin’s fixed supply and decentralization may attract long-term demand.  Additionally, mining costs could rise if tariffs target Chinese-made ASIC hardware, potentially redistributing mining power to regions with cheaper energy and fewer trade barriers.  

     Stablecoins (USDT, USDC).  Stablecoins pegged to the U.S. dollar or other fiat currencies are likely to see heightened demand as tariffs inject volatility into global markets.  During the February 2025 tariff-induced crypto selloff, stablecoins acted as a temporary safe haven, enabling traders to park funds while awaiting re-entry opportunities.  Their stability also makes them practical for cross-border transactions, especially if tariffs complicate traditional forex channels.  However, regulatory scrutiny could intensify if governments perceive stablecoins as tools to bypass trade controls, potentially leading to stricter oversight.  

     Ethereum (ETH).  Ethereum’s price action is more closely tied to tech-sector trends than Bitcoin’s, making it vulnerable to tariff-related market sentiment shifts.  ETH plummeted nearly 25% in three days during the February 2025 tariff announcement, reflecting its higher correlation with risk assets like the NASDAQ.  Nevertheless, Ethereum’s utility in decentralized finance (DeFi) and smart contracts could drive long-term resilience. If tariffs disrupt traditional financial systems or spur innovation in decentralized trade solutions, Ethereum’s ecosystem may benefit from increased adoption of blockchain-based alternatives.  

     Long term is great, but what's awesome are the short term Cryptocurrencies to watch.  

     Dogecoin (DOGE).  Dogecoin’s meme-driven volatility makes it a lightning rod for speculative trading during geopolitical chaos.  When tariffs spooked markets in early 2025, DOGE surged 40% in 48 hours as retail traders piled into low-cap assets, only to crash 60% days later when sentiment reversed.  Its lack of fundamental utility amplifies risk, but its viral community ensures rapid price swings that could capitalize on tariff-related headlines.  

     Shiba Inu (SHIB).  Shiba Inu’s hyper-volatility and massive token supply make it a playground for short-term traders. During the February 2025 tariff announcements, SHIB’s price swung wildly between +30% and -50% within a week, driven by leveraged trading and social media hype.  However, its reliance on speculative narratives and minimal real-world use cases leaves it exposed to abrupt selloffs if risk appetite dries up.  

     Pepe (PEPE).  The newest memecoin sensation, Pepe, thrives on absurdist internet culture and extreme liquidity fluctuations. PEPE spiked 1,200% in March 2025 as tariff fears pushed traders toward “joke” assets, but its lack of exchanges and thin order books mean even minor news—like rumors of Chinese trade retaliation—could trigger 50% daily drops.  

     The collision of tariff wars and cryptocurrency markets is a high-stakes experiment in economic adaptation. While Bitcoin and stablecoins may emerge as long-term hedges against inflation and trade barriers, memecoins like DOGE and PEPE will likely serve as speculative proxies for geopolitical gambles.  Investors navigating this landscape must tread carefully.  The same volatility that promises quick gains could evaporate portfolios overnight.  As trade wars fracture global markets, crypto’s role evolves from rebellious outlier to a mirror reflecting humanity’s chaotic dance between protectionism and innovation.  In this new era, the only certainty is uncertainty—and the crypto market will amplify it.

Symbiosis: Nature’s Collaborative Masterpiece

     Symbiosis, the intimate relationship between different species, is one of nature’s most fascinating and ingenious strategies for survival. From the depths of the ocean to the cells within our bodies, symbiotic relationships are everywhere, shaping ecosystems and driving evolution. These partnerships, often mutually beneficial, highlight the interconnectedness of life and reveal how cooperation can be as powerful as competition. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most remarkable examples of symbiosis, from the microscopic world of cyanobacteria and protists to the visible alliances between anglerfish and bacteria, clownfish and sea anemones, and even humans and gut bacteria. By understanding these relationships, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of life on Earth.

     One of the most profound examples of symbiosis is the relationship between cyanobacteria and protists. Cyanobacteria, often referred to as blue-green algae, are ancient microorganisms capable of photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. When cyanobacteria formed an endosymbiotic relationship with protists—single-celled eukaryotic organisms—it led to one of the most significant evolutionary events in Earth’s history.  

     In this relationship, cyanobacteria were engulfed by protists but instead of being digested, they became permanent residents within the host cell. Over time, these cyanobacteria evolved into chloroplasts, the organelles responsible for photosynthesis in plants. This endosymbiotic event not only allowed protists to harness sunlight for energy but also laid the foundation for the evolution of all photosynthetic plants. As one biology blog explains, “This symbiotic relationship is considered a key evolutionary event, as it is believed that the chloroplasts found in plants originated from an ancient endosymbiotic event where a cyanobacterium was engulfed by a eukaryotic protist ancestor.”  

     The benefits of this partnership are immense. Cyanobacteria provide protists with oxygen and nutrients through photosynthesis, while the protist offers a protected environment. Additionally, some cyanobacteria can fix atmospheric nitrogen, converting it into a form that the host can use, which is particularly advantageous in nitrogen-poor environments. This relationship has contributed to the incredible diversity of photosynthetic protists, including many types of algae, which play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems.

     In the dark depths of the ocean, where sunlight cannot penetrate, the anglerfish has evolved a unique way to attract prey: bioluminescence. This remarkable ability is made possible by a symbiotic relationship with bioluminescent bacteria. These bacteria reside in the anglerfish’s lure, a specialized organ that dangles from its head like a fishing rod.  Smithsonian

     The bacteria produce light through a chemical reaction, creating a glowing lure that attracts unsuspecting prey. In return, the bacteria receive a safe habitat and nutrients from the anglerfish. This partnership is a perfect example of mutualism, where both parties benefit. As one researcher noted, “The anglerfish’s bioluminescent lure is a stunning example of how symbiosis can drive evolutionary innovation, allowing species to thrive in even the most challenging environments.”

     The vibrant relationship between clownfish and sea anemones is another iconic example of symbiosis. Clownfish, with their bright orange and white stripes, live among the venomous tentacles of sea anemones, which provide protection from predators. The anemone’s stinging cells, which would harm most other fish, do not affect the clownfish due to a protective mucus layer on their skin.  

     In return, clownfish help the anemone by eating leftover food particles and parasites, and their waste provides nutrients for the anemone. This mutualistic relationship ensures the survival of both species in the competitive coral reef environment. As marine biologists have observed, “The clownfish and sea anemone partnership is a beautiful demonstration of how two species can evolve to depend on each other for survival.”  

     Termites are known for their ability to break down cellulose, the tough material found in wood. However, termites cannot digest cellulose on their own. Instead, they rely on a complex symbiotic relationship with bacteria and protozoa living in their guts. These microorganisms produce enzymes that break down cellulose into simpler sugars, which the termites can then absorb and use for energy.  

     This relationship is a testament to the power of teamwork in nature. Without their bacterial partners, termites would be unable to access the nutrients locked in wood, and their role as decomposers in ecosystems would be severely limited. As one study notes, “The termite gut is a microcosm of symbiosis, where bacteria and protozoa work together to perform a task that neither could accomplish alone.”

     Even humans are part of the web of symbiotic relationships. Our gut is home to trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and overall health. One of the most well-known groups of gut bacteria is Lactobacillus, which helps break down food, produce vitamins, and protect against harmful pathogens.  

     In return, these bacteria receive a steady supply of nutrients and a stable environment to thrive. This symbiotic relationship is so vital that disruptions to the gut microbiota have been linked to various health issues, including digestive disorders, obesity, and even mental health conditions. As scientists have discovered, “The human gut microbiota is a prime example of how symbiosis shapes our biology, influencing everything from metabolism to mood.”

     Symbiosis is a testament to the power of collaboration in nature. From the microscopic world of cyanobacteria and protists to the glowing partnership between anglerfish and bacteria, these relationships reveal how life on Earth is deeply interconnected. Each example of symbiosis highlights the ingenuity of evolution, demonstrating how species can adapt and thrive by working together.  Scientific American 

     As we continue to study these relationships, we gain not only a deeper understanding of biology but also valuable insights into how we can address challenges in medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation. Symbiosis reminds us that cooperation is a fundamental principle of life, and by embracing this principle, we can unlock new possibilities for the future.

     By exploring the wonders of symbiosis, we are reminded of the beauty and resilience of life, and the endless possibilities that arise when we work together.

A.I. music generators

     Tis the season...

     With a couple of days off of work I had to find some things to stay busy with.  A.I. tech is interesting to have.   I've only been scraping the top.  The free stuff.  Well, I paid $10.00 for a one month subscription to a music creator.

     Music creators are giving real music artists a run for their money.  Some creations make you think the artists were already using A.I..

     Here's are some site suggestions:

     Best AI Music Generator Software in 2024

• AI music generator software available in 2024, categorized into text-to-music, AI MIDI generators, AI voice generators, AI DAWs, and AI audio-to-MIDI converters.

• Leading text-to-music software includes Suno AI, Udio, SoundGen, and Riffusion, each offering unique features like genre fusion, audio-to-audio style transfer, and photo-to-song generation;  pricing models vary from free plans to subscription services.

• For AI MIDI generation, HookPad Aria and Lemonaide are highlighted, providing tools for creating MIDI melodies and chord progressions within DAWs or as standalone applications, catering to different user needs and skill levels.

• The landscape of AI voice generation is evolving rapidly, with tools like ACE Studio offering lyric-to-vocal-melody generation, complementing text-to-song options and enabling more comprehensive song prototyping.

• AI DAWs such as Logic Pro 2 and WavTool are integrating AI features, including session musicians, stem separation, and GPT-4 powered music production assistants, enhancing the creative process for musicians.

• AI audio-to-MIDI converters, exemplified by Samplab 2, facilitate the conversion of audio files into MIDI data, enabling easier editing and manipulation of musical elements for producers and musicians.

(https://www.audiocipher.com/post/ai-music-app)

These are a few songs I generated:

-Nim- Swegi A.I. mix, Pop music

(Nim)

-Lass Slice- Swegi A.I. mix, Female Rap music

(Lass Slice)

-Iron- Swegi A.I. mix, Rap, Gym music

(Iron)

     I thinks it's cool to be able to alternate the rhetoric I'm memorizing in my music.  I can quickly generate my own music from lyrics to beats. Quickly. Any topic.

     It's a hobby , like drawing, to say the least.

     Have fun with A.I. Create, and enjoy.

Mountain lions, a quick look, 2024.

     Mountain lions are large, muscular cats.  Who would think that they fright in human presence?

     Mountain lions can range in size depending on location, but are generally larger closer to the poles. Adult males can be over 8 feet long and weigh between 130 and 150 pounds, while adult females can be 7 feet long and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. 

     Mountain lions have short, coarse fur that is pale brown to tawny above and a blend of white and buff below. They have black markings on the tip of their tail, ears, and around their snout. 

     Mountain lions have a small head, long tail, broad skull, and highly arched forehead. They have large canine teeth and sharp, specialized molars for stabbing and tearing. Their feet are broad, with four digits on hind feet and five on forefeet.

 

     Mountain lions can be found in a wide range of ecosystems, including mountains, forests, deserts, and wetlands. They are generally found wherever deer are present. 

     

     Mountain lions are territorial and have naturally low population densities. They are obligate carnivores and play an important role in Western Hemisphere ecosystems.

   These cats are the largest of the small cats.  Their powerful hind legs enable them to jump as far as 40 to 45 feet in distance and can jump as high as 15 feet.  They can sprint up to 50 miles per hour.

     Mountain lions are the largest cats that purr.

     Consider such facts.  They're majestic.  How is it that they can coexist in an ecosystem together with humans?

• Mountain lions are shifting their activity to avoid interactions with humans, such as cyclists, hikers, and joggers.

• Studies also found that mountain lions living in areas with higher levels of human recreation were more nocturnal than those in more remote regions.

science daily

     Mountain lions are found in urban environments, too.  Mountain lions in the Los Angeles area, as an example, deal with many challenges -- busy roadways where they're often killed, wildfires, rodenticide exposure, low genetic diversity and fragmented habitat.

     Mountain lions aren't fans of humans.  They voluntarily avoid humans.

     They're big versions of the house cats that we know.  Humans are a perceived threat.  Mountain lions instinctively perceive humans as a potential danger due to our larger size and ability to defend ourselves. 

     Similar to others animals, mountain lions scare at the mere sound of humans.  Studies have shown that even just the sound of human voices can cause mountain lions to flee. 

     Hungry priorities don't have room for human game.  There's no nutritional value in the two legged species.  Humans are not a typical prey species for mountain lions, so they have no evolutionary reason to hunt us. 

     Building things constantly rattles the big cat habitat. Human presence often disrupts a mountain lion's natural hunting grounds, causing them to avoid areas with high human activity. 

     Mountain lions in urban areas lean towards the night life.  Mountain lions en la vida loca.

     Mountain lions are beautiful, and dangerous at the same point. They're here; we're here.  The big cats are adjusting. 

Taxes 2024, Get Ready!

     The end of the year isn't quite here, yet.

     This is a perfect point to start getting your taxes together, though.  When the file date arrives, there is no last cacophony of events in the midst.

     Why is this tax thing a necessity?

     The United States Constitution, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1, states, “The Congress shall have the Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defense and general Welfare of the United States."

     You know your role as a law abiding American taxpayer. We are all required to carry your own weight.

     Carry one's (own) weight and pull one's (own) weight

 Meaning to do one's share; to earn one's keep. (The weight is the burden that is the responsibility of someone.)

See also: carry, weight

     (thefreedictionary)

   

 FYI: 

     The failure to pay penalty is 0.5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or part of a month the tax remains unpaid. The penalty won't exceed 25% of your unpaid taxes.

     This is a new day.  We are all responsible, we will take it upon ourselves to play our role as U.S. citizens.

     The IRS announced annual inflation adjustments for over 60 tax provisions for the 2024 tax year, including tax rate schedules.

     Standard deductions increased for all filing statuses: 

$29,200 for married couples filing jointly, 

$14,600 for single taxpayers, 

and $21,900 for heads of households.

     Tax rates remain largely unchanged, with the top rate at 37% for high-income individuals.

     The Earned Income Tax Credit maximum amount increased to $7,830 for qualifying taxpayers with three or more children.

     Various other tax provisions were adjusted for inflation, such as the foreign earned income exclusion, gift tax exclusion, and adoption .

     IYDK:  The IRS will provide a free route to file your taxes.

     The IRS Free File program offers two ways to file federal income tax returns online for free: Guided Tax Software and Free File Fillable Forms.

     Guided Tax Software provides free online tax preparation and filing at an IRS partner site for taxpayers with an AGI of $79,000 or less.

     Free File Fillable Forms are electronic federal tax forms, equivalent to a paper 1040 form, for taxpayers with an AGI greater than $79,000.

     If you really need human assistance to file your taxes, there are some great service providers.

     H&R Block is the best overall tax preparation service due to its large network of branches, reasonable pricing, and various tax preparation options.

     Jackson Hewitt is the best for ease of use, with 5,200 office locations and online tax preparation options.

     TurboTax Live is the best online experience, offering professional tax preparation without leaving home.

     EY TaxChat is the best for self-employed filers, providing expertise in handling complex tax needs.

     Tax software offers convenience, accuracy, and potential refund calculations, but can be more expensive than self-preparation.

     (investopedia)

     Even though the end of the year isn't quite here, this is when one starts getting his taxes together, though. When the file date arrives, all is well.

Seasons Greetings!