This groundbreaking guide serves as a compass, guiding conservation biologists through the unexplored territory of decentralized science and Web3 technologies in the context of our rapidly changing world.

In the Anthropocene, where human activities have significant impacts on our planet, it is crucial for us to embrace innovative approaches that promote sustainability, collaboration, and transparency. This guide empowers conservation biologists to harness the full potential of DeSci and Web3 tools, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate this digital frontier.

I. Introduction to DeSci and Web3 Technologies

I.I. Understanding Decentralized Science (DeSci) in the Anthropocene

In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges brought about by human activities, the concept of Decentralized Science (DeSci) emerges as a promising approach to address complex conservation issues in the Anthropocene. The Anthropocene represents a new geological epoch characterized by the profound impact of human activities on the Earth's ecosystems.

DeSci refers to a decentralized and collaborative framework that harnesses the power of Web3 technologies to facilitate scientific research and conservation efforts. It recognizes the importance of decentralization, transparency, and collaboration as essential elements in addressing the multifaceted challenges of the Anthropocene.

Integrating DeSci principles in conservation biology is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, the Anthropocene is marked by interconnected and global environmental problems that require a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach. By decentralizing scientific processes and promoting collaboration, DeSci enables scientists and conservationists from diverse backgrounds to work together and leverage their collective knowledge and expertise.

Moreover, DeSci fosters transparency in scientific research and decision-making processes. It promotes open access to data, methodologies, and findings, allowing for increased scrutiny, reproducibility, and accountability. This transparency not only strengthens the credibility of scientific endeavors but also empowers stakeholders to actively participate in the conservation discourse.

In the context of the Anthropocene, resilience and adaptive capacity are crucial for addressing the rapid and unpredictable changes occurring in ecosystems. DeSci, with its emphasis on collaboration and decentralized decision-making, enhances the capacity of conservation efforts to respond to these challenges. By involving local communities, indigenous knowledge holders, and other stakeholders, DeSci promotes context-specific approaches and adaptive management strategies that can better address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of ecosystems and communities.

Furthermore, the regenerative approach plays a fundamental role in both sociocultural and ecological complex systems. By adopting regenerative principles, conservation biology can move beyond mere preservation and restoration towards the active renewal and regeneration of ecosystems and communities. The regenerative approach recognizes the interdependence between social, cultural, and ecological systems, emphasizing the importance of nurturing mutually beneficial relationships and promoting the well-being of both human and non-human entities.

In conclusion, the integration of DeSci principles in conservation biology, along with a regenerative approach, holds great promise for effectively addressing the complex challenges of the Anthropocene. By embracing decentralization, transparency, collaboration, and regenerative practices, we can leverage the power of Web3 technologies to foster resilience, adaptability, and innovation in conservation efforts. As we embark on this journey, it is crucial to recognize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the inclusion of diverse perspectives to ensure the long-term sustainability and regeneration of our sociocultural and ecological systems in the Anthropocene and beyond.

I.II. Exploring Web3 Technologies for Conservation Biologists

In the fast-paced digital era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, DeSci Web3 technologies offer immense potential for revolutionizing the field of conservation biology. These technologies, which include blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps), have the power to enhance data integrity, traceability, and stakeholder engagement in conservation efforts.

Web3 technologies operate on the principles of decentralization and transparency. Unlike traditional centralized systems, where data and decision-making authority are concentrated in a single entity, Web3 technologies distribute these functions across a network of participants. This decentralization ensures that data and information are accessible to all, eliminating the need for intermediaries and fostering trust among stakeholders.

One of the key components of Web3 technologies is blockchain. Blockchain is a digital ledger that records and verifies transactions in a transparent and immutable manner. In the context of conservation biology, blockchain can be used to securely store and share data related to species populations, habitat monitoring, and biodiversity assessments. This ensures that data remains tamper-proof and can be audited by interested parties, promoting scientific rigor and accountability.

Smart contracts, another vital aspect of Web3 technologies, are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement written into code. These contracts facilitate automated transactions, eliminating the need for intermediaries and reducing transaction costs. In conservation biology, smart contracts can be utilized to establish agreements between different stakeholders, such as landowners, researchers, and government agencies, ensuring fair compensation for conservation efforts and enabling efficient resource allocation.

Decentralized applications (dApps) are user-friendly interfaces that leverage the power of blockchain and smart contracts. These applications provide a user-centric approach, allowing conservation biologists to access and interact with data, collaborate with other researchers, and engage with stakeholders in a transparent and efficient manner. Through dApps, conservationists can streamline data collection, analysis, and reporting processes, saving valuable time and resources.

Web3 tools offer numerous benefits for conservation biologists in the Anthropocene. By promoting data integrity and traceability, these technologies enable researchers to make evidence-based decisions and develop informed conservation strategies. Additionally, the transparency and accessibility of Web3 tools facilitate stakeholder engagement, empowering local communities, and indigenous peoples to actively participate in conservation initiatives.

Furthermore, Web3 technologies support adaptive management strategies in the face of rapid environmental changes. By providing real-time data and insights, conservation biologists can respond promptly to emerging threats and design effective conservation interventions. These tools also enable the monitoring and evaluation of conservation projects, allowing for continuous learning and improvement.

In conclusion, Web3 technologies present exciting opportunities for conservation biologists in the Anthropocene. By embracing blockchain, smart contracts, and decentralized applications, researchers can enhance data integrity, promote stakeholder engagement, and implement adaptive management strategies. As we navigate the complexities of the Anthropocene, it is crucial for conservation biologists to explore and harness the potential of Web3 technologies for the betterment of our planet's biodiversity and the well-being of present and future generations.

I.III. Ethical Considerations and Inclusive Practices in DeSci Web3

As we explore the exciting possibilities of integrating DeSci and Web3 technologies in conservation biology, it is essential to consider the ethical implications and strive for inclusive practices in their adoption and implementation. In the Anthropocene, where human activities significantly impact the environment, it is crucial to ensure that these technologies are used responsibly and in a manner that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Ethical considerations arise in various aspects of utilizing DeSci and Web3 tools. One key concern is the responsible management of data. With the increasing availability and accessibility of data, it is essential to handle it in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Conservation biologists must prioritize data protection and implement secure measures to prevent unauthorized access or misuse of sensitive information.

Equity and inclusion are paramount in the application of DeSci Web3 tools. It is important to ensure that the benefits and opportunities provided by these technologies are accessible to all stakeholders, including marginalized communities and traditionally underrepresented groups. Efforts should be made to bridge the digital divide and provide equal access to technology, training, and resources. Inclusive practices can empower diverse voices, enhance community engagement, and foster collaborative decision-making processes.

Community-driven governance structures play a vital role in promoting ethical and inclusive practices in the use of DeSci Web3 tools. By involving local communities, indigenous peoples, and other relevant stakeholders in the decision-making process, conservation biologists can ensure that the use of these technologies aligns with their needs, values, and cultural perspectives. This participatory approach enhances trust, fosters shared ownership, and increases the likelihood of successful and sustainable conservation outcomes.

Conservation biologists must also be mindful of the potential biases and limitations inherent in the data and algorithms used in DeSci Web3 tools. Machine learning algorithms, for example, can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in the training data. It is essential to critically evaluate the outputs generated by these tools and actively address any biases or inaccuracies to prevent unintended negative consequences.

In summary, as we embark on the journey of integrating DeSci and Web3 technologies in conservation biology, ethical considerations and inclusive practices must be at the forefront of our efforts. Responsible data management, privacy protection, and community-driven governance structures are crucial to ensure equitable access and participation. By addressing these ethical considerations and fostering inclusivity, we can harness the full potential of DeSci Web3 tools to advance conservation efforts, empower communities, and achieve sustainable and equitable outcomes in the Anthropocene.

Note

These essays are brilliant ideas that are still in need of a little polishing. They are part of the remarkable journey undertaken by the pioneering Regen Guide Writers Cohort of GreenPill.network x Taptive

As we embark on this transformative adventure, we invite you to join us in refining these concepts, shaping them into a comprehensive regenerative guide for conservation biologists. Your input and feedback will help us create a powerful resource that drives positive change in the Anthropocene.

Remember, great ideas require collaboration, iteration, and the collective wisdom of passionate minds. Together, we have the power to shape a future where DeSci Web3 tools revolutionize conservation practices, safeguarding our planet for generations to come.

This research sheds light on the key points and implications of exogenous incentives, particularly Maximal Extractable Value (MEV), through an empirical case study of Ethereum:

1. Evolutionary Game Dynamics: Consensus participants are influenced by exogenous incentives, such as MEV, which act as selection pressures in the evolutionary dynamics of the protocol. To ensure economic fairness, it is crucial to design protocols where honest and honest-but-rational participation are indistinguishable, making honesty the most profitable strategy. This alignment promotes the stability and fairness of the evolutionary ecosystem.

2. Coordination and Schelling Points: The research model uncovers a spectrum of equilibria where attesters can enforce different block proposal deadlines to achieve canonical status. These equilibria rely on the concept of Schelling points, which act as coordination mechanisms. In the Ethereum network, the default settings of client software serve as examples of such Schelling points, facilitating effective coordination among consensus participants.

3. Strategic Timing Considerations: Observations of the Ethereum network confirm that block proposers engage in timing games to capture additional MEV by delaying their block proposals beyond the prescribed timeframe. However, the current delays are primarily due to latency rather than a deliberate strategy. The lack of maximal MEV capture by honest proposers could be attributed to factors such as a lack of common knowledge or existing social norms. Nonetheless, these factors do not provide sustainable safeguards for maintaining economic fairness.

4. Implications of Timing Games: Timing games can lead to a centralization of stake over time, as honest-but-rational participants outperform honest participants. This centralization poses potential risks to consensus security and network decentralization. Moreover, timing games can overload the messaging system, leading to cascading failures at the peer-to-peer layer, particularly within client systems.

5. Monopolistic Nature of Block Proposers: Timing games are facilitated by the monopolistic right that block proposers possess for a single round of consensus. Introducing competition in block proposing, like the exogenous randomness in Proof of Work (PoW) systems, emerges as a potential solution. However, determining a fair and decentralized method for selecting winning proposers is challenging and requires careful consideration to avoid introducing new centralizing elements.

6. Incentivizing Timely Participation: An on-chain heuristic for timely block proposals could incentivize participants to act promptly. However, the allure of MEV rewards may still outweigh in-protocol consensus rewards. Addressing the root cause of timing games remains an open challenge, necessitating further research and innovation to strike a balance between economic incentives and consensus mechanisms.

7. Ethereum's Approach and Future Directions: Ethereum has adopted a late-block reorging mechanism, imposing a 4-second deadline for block proposers in the fork choice. This constraint limits the extent of block delays. Future refinements may include the adoption of (block, slot) type attestations, refining the protocol further. Nevertheless, eliminating the monopolistic market structure of block proposers proves to be a difficult task due to its deep integration with the fundamental workings of Proof of Stake (PoS).

In conclusion, this research highlights the criticality of considering the interplay between economic incentives and the socioecological dynamics of blockchain PoS protocols. It underscores the need to ensure economic fairness, address timing games, and strike a balance between decentralization and efficiency in the design of applied evolutionary game theory for blockchain consensus mechanisms. By addressing these challenges, blockchain networks can maintain their integrity, security, and decentralization, paving the way for a more robust and equitable future in the realm of blockchain technology.

References

Ethereum.org (2023) Maximal Extractable Value (MEV). In: https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/mev/#:~:text=Maximal extractable value (MEV) refers,of transactions in a block. Schwarz-Schilling, C., Saleh, F., Thiery, T., Pan, J., Shah, N., & Monnot, B. (2023). Time is Money: Strategic Timing Games in Proof-of-Stake Protocols. arXiv preprint arXiv:2305.09032. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2305.09032.

As we embark on this journey, it is important to appreciate the inherent trade-offs that underpin the design choices behind these building blocks. The pursuit of deep understanding lies in recognizing and analyzing these trade-offs. It becomes evident that certain design decisions prioritize the needs of a light client ecosystem over pure speed and performance for full nodes, presenting us with intriguing trade-offs that shape the overall Ethereum 2 landscape.

Building blocks are an integral part of the protocol specification itself. It's worth noting that client implementations often incorporate additional optimizations beyond the specification. By understanding and dissecting these building blocks, we can unravel the intricate mechanisms that propel Ethereum 2 towards its ambitious scalability goals.

Ben Edgington's selected topics for special attention offer valuable insights into the key building blocks of Ethereum 2. Let's further explore each of these topics:

1. BLS Signatures: The introduction of BLS Signatures prompted a complete redesign of Ethereum's proof-of-stake protocol. These signatures serve as a crucial underpinning for the scalability and ambition of Ethereum 2. They contribute to enhanced security, efficiency, and the ability to process a large number of validators in the network.

2. Randomness and the Beacon Chain: Generating reliable randomness within a deterministic system presents challenges. However, the beacon chain in Ethereum 2 accomplishes this by utilizing BLS signatures. Randomness is essential for various security aspects, such as committee selection and block proposal, ensuring fairness and preventing malicious behavior.

3. Shuffling and Oblivious Shuffle: Shuffling involves utilizing randomness to populate committees within Ethereum 2. However, for the sake of light clients, an "oblivious" shuffle is employed instead of the standard Fisher-Yates algorithm. This optimization allows for efficient execution on light clients while maintaining the integrity of the shuffling process.

4. Committees: Committees play a vital role in distributing the workload within the beacon chain. By dividing responsibilities among different committees, Ethereum 2 achieves better scalability and parallel processing capabilities. This approach enables faster block validation and contributes to the overall efficiency of the network.

5. Aggregator Selection: Aggregator selection is a mechanism that covertly selects small subsets of committees to perform the task of aggregating attestations. This selection process optimizes the efficiency of data aggregation while ensuring the accuracy and security of consensus within Ethereum 2.

6. SSZ: Simple Serialize: SSZ, known as Simple Serialize, is a novel serialization technique extensively used throughout the Ethereum 2 protocol. It embodies elegance and efficiency, providing an optimized approach to serializing data. SSZ enables efficient storage and transmission of information, contributing to the overall performance of the network.

7. Hash Tree Roots and Merkleization: Hash tree roots and Merkleization are applications of SSZ within Ethereum 2. These techniques, among other benefits, make light clients practical by reducing the computational and storage requirements. They enable light clients to verify the integrity and authenticity of data while efficiently interacting with the Ethereum network.

As Ethereum 2 continues to evolve and mature, it is crucial to recognize the importance of these building blocks and the ongoing research and development efforts that propel Ethereum towards its vision of a decentralized, scalable, and secure network. With these foundations in place, Ethereum 2 paves the way for a new era of decentralized applications, innovation, and widespread adoption in the world of blockchain technology.

References:

Ben Edgington’s Upgrading Ethereum (2023): https://eth2book.info

Ethereum Foundation (2023): https://ethereum.foundation/

The field of conservation biology stands at the precipice of a groundbreaking revolution, powered by the fusion of Web3 tools and Decentralized Science (DeSci). This formidable combination holds immense potential to transform the landscape of conservation biology, revolutionizing data transparency, collaboration, and scientific research (Fig. 1). In this essay, we will explore how the integration of Web3 tools and DeSci can contribute to conservation biology, ultimately paving the way for a more inclusive, transparent, and effective approach to preserving biodiversity**.**

I. Decentralized Data Sharing and Collaboration:

Web3 platforms, in tandem with DeSci, facilitate decentralized data sharing among researchers, organizations, and citizen scientists. Through these platforms, researchers can securely share their data, methodologies, and findings, fostering a more inclusive and transparent scientific community that is united in its conservation efforts. By eliminating the barriers associated with centralized data repositories, Web3 tools promote collaboration, allowing scientists to pool their resources and knowledge for more comprehensive conservation strategies.

II. Smart Contracts for Conservation Funding and Incentives:

The integration of Web3 technology and DeSci enables the implementation of smart contracts that revolutionize conservation funding. Donors can leverage smart contracts to define the purpose and conditions of their contributions, ensuring that funds are allocated and utilized effectively. This transparent and accountable approach instills confidence in conservation initiatives, attracting more donors to contribute to the cause. Moreover, tokenized incentive systems can be established, rewarding individuals or communities for their conservation efforts, thereby fostering a culture of active participation and engagement.

III. Open Access and Reproducible Research:

Web3 platforms offer a robust framework to uphold the principles of open access and reproducible research in conservation biology. Through blockchain technology, scientific publications, datasets, and methodologies can be recorded immutably, ensuring transparency, traceability, and reproducibility. This enhanced credibility and accessibility of research outcomes serve as catalysts for wider adoption and collaboration among scientists. By democratizing access to knowledge, Web3 tools empower researchers worldwide, fostering a more interconnected and dynamic scientific community.

IV. Citizen Science and Data Crowdsourcing:

The amalgamation of Web3 tools and DeSci empowers citizen scientists to play an active role in conservation efforts. Decentralized platforms allow individuals to contribute valuable data, observations, and insights, augmenting the collective understanding of ecological systems. Through data crowdsourcing, citizen scientists become integral stakeholders, amplifying the breadth and depth of conservation research. By harnessing the power of the masses, Web3 and DeSci bridge the gap between professionals and the wider public, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the preservation of our planet.

V. Conservation NFTs for Funding and Awareness:

Web3 platforms offer an innovative solution for conservation funding and raising awareness through the use of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). Unique digital assets, such as artwork or collectibles, can be minted as NFTs, with a portion of the proceeds directed toward conservation initiatives. This approach not only generates financial support but also engages a broader audience in the significance of conservation. By leveraging the popularity and allure of NFTs, conservation efforts gain visibility and momentum, inspiring a wider community to actively contribute to the cause.

Concluding Remarks

The transformative power of Web3 tools and DeSci holds immense promise for the field of conservation biology. Through decentralized data sharing, smart contracts, citizen science, and innovative funding mechanisms, this amalgamation accelerates research, collaboration, and conservation efforts. By fostering transparency, inclusivity, and accountability, Web3 and DeSci provide a pathway toward a more sustainable future for our planet's biodiversity. Embracing these revolutionary technologies will empower us to create a world where conservation becomes a shared responsibility and preservation of biodiversity is engrained in the fabric of our society. As we embark on this journey, it is crucial to prioritize the development and adoption of Web3 tools and DeSci within the conservation biology community.

To fully realize the potential of Web3 and DeSci, collaboration among stakeholders is paramount. Conservation organizations, research institutions, technology developers, and policymakers must join forces to create an ecosystem that supports the integration of these transformative technologies. The collaboration will not only ensure the effective implementation of Web3 tools but also help address any ethical and governance concerns that may arise.

Furthermore, education and training initiatives should be established to empower conservation biologists and researchers with the necessary skills to navigate and leverage Web3 platforms. By equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to embrace these technologies, we can overcome barriers and maximize the benefits they offer.

It is important to recognize that the adoption of Web3 tools and DeSci alone will not solve all the challenges faced by conservation biology. Traditional scientific methods and approaches will continue to play a crucial role. However, by incorporating these emerging technologies, we can enhance and complement existing practices, leading to more impactful and sustainable outcomes.

In conclusion, the integration of Web3 tools and DeSci presents a paradigm shift in conservation biology, offering transformative opportunities to mitigate the impacts of the Anthropocene. By promoting decentralized data sharing, smart contracts, open access, citizen science, and NFTs, these technologies empower individuals, researchers, and organizations to collaborate, innovate, and implement regenerative practices. Through collective action and the adoption of Web3 tools, we can strive towards a more sustainable future, where the Anthropocene's impacts are mitigated, biodiversity is conserved, and ecological balance is restored. Let us embrace the power of Web3 and DeSci to create a world where humans and nature coexist harmoniously, preserving our planet's natural heritage for generations to come.

References:

Brown, M. B., Morrison, J. C., Schulz, T. T., Cross, M. S., Püschel-Hoeneisen, N., Suresh, V., & Eguren, A. (2022). Using the conservation standards framework to address the effects of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services. Climate, 10(2), 13. https://doi.org/10.3390/cli10020013

Schlaepfer, M. A., & Lawler, J. J. (2023). Conserving biodiversity in the face of rapid climate change requires a shift in priorities. Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Climate Change, 14(1), e798. https://doi.org/10.1002/wcc.798

Ethereum. (2023). Decentralized Science (DeSci). https://ethereum.org/en/desci/

https://opensea.io/assets/ethereum/0xc6A5765cfA7630574523a0e7539dA35287bad5F0/1

Hello World!

Hace aproximadamente un año, descubrí la ciencia descentralizada (DeSci, por sus siglas en inglés) mientras navegaba por "Web3" a través de una nota de correspondencia científica de Sarah Hamburg al grupo editorial Nature titulada: Call to join the decentralized science movement; y sí, la nota no estaba/está disponible, hay que pagar una cuota de $32 USD (irónicamente) a la editorial para acceder al contenido. Por fortuna, es totalmente gratuito en su perfil de Researchgate.

La nota es un breve comentario de ~177 palabras y anima a científicos e investigadores a formar parte de una comunidad que está aprovechando las nuevas tecnologías (por ejemplo: las herramientas "Web3") para afrontar los retos de la investigación y contribuir con sus habilidades al desarrollo del movimiento DeSci.

He decidido crear mi primera inmersión profunda en lo esencial de este maravilloso criptoe cosistema que se ha ido construyendo sobre el movimiento de Ciencia Abierta (Open Science). Este ensayo se dividirá en cinco breves secciones:

I. ¿Qué es la ciencia descentralizada (DeSci)? II. La Ciencia tradicional frente a la Ciencia Descentralizada III. El Epítome de la organización y coordinación en la Ciencia: Las DAOs IV. Panorama de DeSci V. Conclusiones

I. ¿Qué es la ciencia descentralizada (DeSci)?

La ciencia descentralizada (DeSci), es un movimiento que busca utilizar la tecnología descentralizada, como blockchain, para crear un sistema más abierto y equitativo para llevar a cabo y compartir la investigación científica. Se trata de utilizar infraestructuras descentralizadas para financiar, crear, revisar, acreditar, almacenar y distribuir el conocimiento científico de forma equitativa y justa. Su objetivo es crear un sistema más transparente y democrático para la ciencia, menos influenciado por factores como la parcialidad, las dinámicas de poder y los intereses comerciales. DeSci forma parte de una tendencia más amplia en la comunidad científica para revolucionar la forma en que se financia la investigación y se comparte el conocimiento, así como una evolución dentro del ecosistema criptográfico para desplazar la propiedad y el valor lejos de los intermediarios.

II. Ciencia tradicional frente a ciencia descentralizada

La ciencia tradicional (TradSci, por sus siglas en inglés) se refiere a la forma en que se ha llevado a cabo y organizado normalmente en la investigación científica. En el modelo tradicional, la investigación científica suele estar financiada por gobiernos, instituciones o empresas privadas, y la llevan a cabo científicos profesionales que trabajan en universidades, laboratorios de investigación y otras organizaciones. Los resultados de la investigación científica suelen publicarse en revistas académicas, que son revisadas por pares para garantizar la calidad y validez de la investigación. La ciencia tradicional también implica la creación de conocimiento científico a través del método científico, que implica la formulación de hipótesis, la realización de experimentos y el análisis de datos para probar estas hipótesis y generar nuevos conocimientos. En general, la ciencia tradicional es un enfoque sistemático y riguroso para estudiar el mundo natural y avanzar en nuestra comprensión del mismo.

III. El Epítome de la organización y coordinación en la Ciencia: Las DAOs

Una Organización Autónoma Descentralizada (DAO, por sus siglas en inglés) DeSci, es un tipo de organización que se basa en sistemas descentralizados, como blockchain y está diseñada para apoyar la realización y divulgación de la investigación científica. Se pretende que sea abierta, transparente y democrática, permitiendo que una amplia gama de personas participen y contribuyan al proceso científico.

Una DAO DeSci típicamente usa una plataforma basada en blockchain para facilitar la financiación, creación, revisión y difusión de la investigación científica. Esto puede incluir el uso de contratos inteligentes para automatizar procesos específicos, como la asignación de fondos para proyectos de investigación o la revisión y publicación de artículos de investigación. También puede utilizar otras tecnologías descentralizadas, como sistemas de almacenamiento descentralizados, para almacenar y organizar datos de investigación y otros procesos del conocimiento científico.

En general, las DAOs DeSci son un nuevo tipo de organización que pretende crear un sistema más transparente, equitativo y democrático para llevar a cabo y compartir la investigación científica. Mediante el uso de tecnología descentralizada, pueden facilitar la colaboración y el intercambio de conocimientos entre un amplio abanico de personas y organizaciones, y contribuir a superar algunas de las limitaciones y/o retos de la ciencia tradicional.

Ding, et al., (2022) propusieron un marco de seis capas para DAOs DeSci en "Web3", que resumiré a continuación:

a) Nivel de Protocolo: incluye la tecnología blockchain específica y la plataforma de contratos inteligentes sobre la que se construye la DAO DeSci, además de cualquier directriz complementaria que la organización haya puesto en marcha (por ejemplo, capa de datos, capa de red, entre otras).

b) Nivel de Gobernanza: se refiere a las formas en que se gestiona la organización y se toman las decisiones. Contiene los sistemas y procedimientos que se utilizan para la toma de decisiones, como la celebración de elecciones o el uso de contratos inteligentes para hacer cumplir automáticamente los acuerdos. El nivel de gobernanza también puede comprender directrices complementarias que se han puesto en marcha para guiar el proceso de toma de decisiones y garantizar que la DAO DeSci funcione de manera justa y transparente (por ejemplo, marco de gobernanza, estrategia de gobernanza, tipos de votación, entre otros).

c) Nivel de Incentivos: describe las formas en que la organización incentiva y compensa a sus miembros por ayudar a la organización y alcanzar sus objetivos. Este nivel puede implicar el uso de tokens (por ejemplo: NFTs, SBTs), u otros incentivos basados en criptomonedas para estimular la participación y motivar a los miembros a apoyar a la organización. El nivel de incentivos también puede utilizar otras formas de compensación, como el acceso a recursos o eventos exclusivos, para animar y recompensar a sus miembros, sistemas de reputación, o recompensas no monetarias, que se crean para contribuir a los miembros y motivarlos para el éxito de la organización. Otros ejemplos son los airdrops, las subvenciones, las recompensas, el staking, entre otros).

d) Nivel organizativo: se refiere a la arquitectura y el diseño de la organización; incluye los objetivos y la misión generales de la organización, las formas en que se gestiona la organización y se toman las decisiones. Incluye los objetivos generales y la misión de la organización, las formas en que se gestiona la organización y se toman las decisiones, las herramientas y los procedimientos disponibles para tomar decisiones, también las directrices y normas adicionales que la organización haya establecido. Este nivel de una DAO DeSci también puede implicar las formas en que se financia la organización y los deberes y obligaciones de sus miembros. Es básicamente, los principios de funcionamiento de la organización, y actúa como la base sobre la que se construyen los otros niveles de la DAO DeSci (por ejemplo: Fundación + Comunidad DAO DeSci).

e) Nivel Operativo: se refiere a las actividades y operaciones regulares de la organización, incluyendo las tareas e iniciativas específicas de la organización y también los procesos y procedimientos que están en marcha para llevarlas a cabo. Este nivel también puede incluir las herramientas y los activos que la organización utiliza para respaldar sus operaciones (por ejemplo: programación y envío de tareas autónomas descentralizadas, verificaciones y validaciones autónomas descentralizadas, entre otras).

f) Nivel de Aplicación: comprende los posibles escenarios de aplicación y los escenarios y casos de uso de aplicaciones “Web3” para DeSci. Basándose en las características y funciones, puede dividirse en dos categorías: (1) Sistema científico (por ejemplo: investigación, financiación, acceso, desarrollo científico, entre otros), y (2) Aplicaciones específicas para escenarios del sistema (por ejemplo: biotecnología, revistas, clima, entre otros).

IV. Panorama de DeSci

Hasta el 14 de octubre de 2022, se documentaron 117 proyectos distribuidos en 10 categorías en el panorama de proyectos activos en DeSci; y son los siguientes:

• DAOs DeSci (26): AthenaDAO, Cherubs DAO, MedDAO, NeuraDAO, CRISPR DAO, NewAtlantis, CryoDAO, NineLivesDAO, CureDAO, OpScientia, DeNature DAO, PsyDAO, FrontierDAO, ReputableDAO, Future Foods DAO, Research Collective, GenomesDAO, ResearchHub DAO, HairDAO, ScienceDAO, Knowan, Silvi, LabDAO, ValleyDAO, LoveHealth, VitaDAO

• Ciencia Abierta (4): Center for Open Science, DIYBiology, DeepChem, Serratus

• Ecosistemas DeSci (8): bio.xyz, DeSci, Gridcoin, SCINET, The Innovation Game, Halogen, ReSci Network, The DeSci Academy

• Biotecnología (11): BioDAO, Open NMN, Fleming Protocol, Perlara PBC, Health X Change, Phage Directory, InnovativeBioresearch, Reserca, Molecule, Vibe Bio, Open Therapeutics

• Arte & NFTs (9): ᗩTOᗰIᑕ ᕼᗴᗩᖇT ᑎᖴT, PlantGang, Dnaverse, SameYou, Spinal Cord NFT, Existential Hope, UltraRare Bio, GENE Scientific art, Gels on ArtBlocks

• Publicaciones (12): Planck, Ants-Review, sci2sci, Atoms, Scholar, deScier, Scriptus, flashpub, Seeds of Science, PeeryView, TalentDAO, Agora Labs

• Protocolos y Almacenamiento de datos (10): Athena Protocol, Kamu, Bacalhau, Ocean Protocol, Ceramic, pRoots, DeTechWorld, Protocol Labs, Habitat Health, Weavechain

• Institutos y Fundaciones (6): Arc Institute, ArcadiaScience, Convergent Research, Foresight Institute, New Science, Astera Institute

• Financiación (14): AntidoteDAO, AxonDAO, BeakerDAO, Crowd Funded Cures, Experiment, GainForest, Gitcoin, Giveth, Impact Finance, Medical.watch, Repro Grants, Science Fund, Sesame Foundation, Viral Cure

• Chats y Comunidades (17): Blockchain for Science, DeSci Africa, DeSci Berlin, DeSci Boston, DeSci Brazil, DeSci China, DeSci Collective, DeSci Global, DeSci Japan, DeSci LATAM, DeSci London, DeSciWorld, Friendzymes, Just One Giant Lab, Nucleate Dojo, SCRF, Web3 Women in Science

Menciones honoríficas: DB DAO, Researchain, EncrypGen, DeSciReport, Abakhus, ReFiDAO, Toucan, KLIMA DAO, DeSci Italia, Ethichub, CryptoAltruism, por mencionar algunos...

Como se puede apreciar, hay un gremio cripto ecológico que prospera.

V. Conclusiones

Se podría argumentar que DeSci representa un cambio de paradigma en la ciencia, ya que pretende crear un sistema más abierto, transparente y democrático para llevar a cabo y compartir la investigación científica. Implica el uso de tecnología descentralizada, como blockchain, para facilitar la financiación, creación, revisión y difusión del conocimiento científico, y busca involucrar a un mayor número de personas en el proceso científico. DeSci también desafía algunos de los supuestos y prácticas de la ciencia tradicional, como el enfoque en el conocimiento propietario y la estructura jerárquica de la comunidad científica.

DeSci sería una extensión de los paradigmas existentes en la ciencia. Se basa en el trabajo de científicos e investigadores anteriores e incorpora muchos de los mismos principios y prácticas de la ciencia tradicional. También puede considerarse parte de una tendencia más amplia de la ciencia, más que una ruptura radical con el pasado. En última instancia, que DeSci sea un nuevo paradigma científico dependerá de cómo lo entiendan e interpreten la comunidad científica y el público en general.

DeSci podría resolver algunos de los problemas que existen actualmente en la ciencia tradicional, como el monopolio del conocimiento, los silos de información y otros efectos de cuello de botella. A medida que madure, también podría promover la sostenibilidad mediante la reforma de los sistemas educativos, de gestión, tecnológicos, industriales y sociales.

Sin embargo, es importante mencionar que DeSci es un campo nuevo y emergente relativamente poco establecido, y aún se desconoce cómo se desarrollará y evolucionará. Hasta qué punto podrá hacer frente a los retos de TradSci y fomentar una innovación más amplia dependerá de una plétora de factores, como la adopción y el uso de tecnologías descentralizadas, la implicación y el respaldo de la comunidad científica y el entorno social y político general. También es posible que DeSci se enfrente a sus propios retos y limitaciones, y que no sea capaz de optimizar completamente su potencial como nuevo paradigma científico. En última instancia, el éxito y la influencia de DeSci dependerán de cómo se implemente y aplique en la práctica.

DeSci es un nuevo movimiento en tiempos del Antropoceno, que aún no ha surgido ni se ha desarrollado plenamente. Se trata de un hipotético enfoque de la ciencia que hace hincapié en la descentralización y la colaboración y busca crear soluciones a problemas socioculturales mediante el uso de nuevas herramientas y tecnologías (por ejemplo: la "Web3").

Creo que uno de los principales objetivos DeSci, es lograr el equilibrio y la armonía con la naturaleza. Podría crear una puerta de acceso a una plétora de oportunidades de conocimiento en todas las ramas de la ciencia.

https://opensea.io/assets/ethereum/0xc6a5765cfa7630574523a0e7539da35287bad5f0/7

Referencias clave:

Hamburg, S. (2022). A Guide to DeSci, the Latest Web3 Movement. Future/a16z. https://future.com/what-is-decentralized-science-aka-desci/

Ethereum (2022). Decentralized science (DeSci). https://ethereum.org/en/desci/

Ding, W., Hou, J., Li, J., Guo, C., Qin, J., Kozma, R., & Wang, F. Y. (2022). DeSci based on Web3 and DAO: A comprehensive overview and reference model. IEEE Transactions on Computational Social Systems, 9(5), 1563-1573, doi:10.1109/TCSS.2022.3204745

Moreland, K. (2022). DeSci: Modern Science Enabled by Web3 Technology. Ledger Academy. https://www.ledger.com/academy/desci-modern-science-enabled-by-web3-technology

DeSciWorld DAO (2022). Awesome DeSci: A curated list of awesome Decentralized Science (DeSci) resources, projects, articles, and more. Github. https://github.com/DeSciWorldDAO/awesome-desci

Ducrée, J., Codyre, M., Walshe, R., & Barting, S. (2022). DeSci-Decentralized Science. Preprints 2022, 2022050223, doi:10.20944/preprints202205.0223.v1

Hello World!

About a year ago, I discovered decentralized science (DeSci) while surfing “Web3” through a scientific correspondence note from Sarah Hamburg to the Nature publishing group entitled: Call to join the decentralized science movement; and yes, the paper was/is not available, you have to pay a fee of $32 USD (ironically) to the publisher to access the content. By fortune, is totally free on her Researchgate profile.

The note is a brief comment of ~177 words and encourages scientists and researchers to become part of a community that is leveraging new technologies (eg. “Web3” tools) to tackle challenges in research and contribute their skills to the development of the DeSci movement.

I decided to create my first deep dive into the essentials of this marvelous crypto ecosystem that has been building on the Open Science movement. This essay will be divided into five brief sections:

I. What is Decentralized science (DeSci)? II. Traditional Science vs Decentralized Science III. The Epitome of organization and coordination in Science: DAO’s IV. LandScape of Desci V. Concluding remarks

I. What is Decentralized science (DeSci)?

Decentralized science (DeSci), is a movement that seeks to use decentralized technology, such as blockchain, to create a more open and equitable system for conducting and sharing scientific research. This involves using decentralized infrastructures to fund, create, review, credit, store, and distribute scientific knowledge in a way that is equal and fair. Its goal is to create a more transparent and democratic system for science, one that is less influenced by factors such as bias, power dynamics, and commercial interests. DeSci is part of a broader trend in the scientific community to revolutionize the way research is funded and knowledge is shared, as well as an evolution within the crypto ecosystem to shift ownership and value away from intermediaries.

II. Traditional Science vs Decentralized Science

Traditional science (TradSci) refers to the way in which scientific research has typically been conducted and organized. In the traditional model, scientific research is often funded by governments, institutions, or private companies, and is carried out by professional scientists working in universities, research labs, and other organizations. The results of scientific research are typically published in academic journals, which are peer-reviewed to ensure the quality and validity of the research. Traditional science also involves the creation of scientific knowledge through the scientific method, which involves forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to test these hypotheses and generate new knowledge. Overall, traditional science is a systematic and rigorous approach to studying the natural world and advancing our understanding of it.

III. The epitome of organization and coordination in Science: DAOs

A DeSci Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO), is a type of organization that is based on decentralized systems, such as blockchain and is designed to support the conduct and dissemination of scientific research. It is intended to be open, transparent, and democratic, enabling a wide range of people to participate in and contribute to the scientific process.

A DeSci DAO typically uses a blockchain-based platform to facilitate the funding, creation, review, and dissemination of scientific research. This can include the use of smart contracts to automate specific processes, such as the allocation of funds for research projects or the review and publication of research papers. It may also use other decentralized technologies, such as decentralized storage systems, to store and organize research data and other scientific knowledge.

Overall, DeSci DAOs are a new type of organization that seeks to create a more transparent, equitable, and democratic system for conducting and sharing scientific research. Using decentralized technology, can facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing among a wide range of people and organizations and can help to overcome some of the limitations and challenges of traditional science.

Ding, et al., (2022) proposed six layer framework for “Web3” DeSci DAOs, which I will summarize next:

a) Protocol Level: includes the specific blockchain technology and smart contract platform that the DeSci DAO is built on, plus any supplementary guidelines that the organization has put in place (e.g. data layer, network layer, among others).

b) Governance Level: refers to the ways in which the organization is managed and decisions are made. Contains the systems and procedures that are used for decision-making, like holding elections or using smart contracts to automatically enforce agreements. The governance level may also comprise supplementary guidelines that have been put in place to guide the decision-making process and guarantee that the DeSci DAO operates in a fair and transparent manner (e.g. governance framework, governance strategy, and types of voting, among others).

c) Incentive Level: describes the ways in which the organization encourages and compensates its members for helping the organization and reaching its objectives. This level may involve the use of tokens (e.g. NFTs, SBTs), or other cryptocurrency-based incentives to stimulate participation and motivate members to support the organization. The incentive level may also use other forms of compensation, such as access to exclusive resources or events, to encourage and reward its members, reputation systems, or non-monetary rewards, which are created to contribute to members and motivate them to the success of the organization. Other examples are airdrops, grants, bounties, and staking, among others).

d) Organizational Level: refers to the organization's architecture and design; including the organization's overall goals and mission, the ways in which the organization is managed, and decisions are taken. This includes the overall goals and mission of the organization, the ways in which the organization is managed and decisions are made, the tools and procedures that are available for making choices, and also any extra guidelines and standards that the organization has put in place. This level of a DeSci DAO may also involve the ways in which the organization is financed and the duties and obligations of its members. It is basically, the operating principles of the organization, and acts as the foundation on which the other levels of the DeSci DAO are built (e.g. Foundation + DeSci DAO Community).

e) Operational Level: refers to the organization's regular activities and operations, including the organization's specific assignments and initiatives and also the processes and procedures that are in place for carrying out these. This level may also involve the tools and assets that the organization uses to support its operations (e.g. decentralized autonomous task scheduling and dispatching, and decentralized autonomous verification and validation, among others).

f) Aplicational Level: comprises the potential application scenarios and Web3 apps scenarios and use cases for DeSci. Based on the features and functions it can be divided into two categories: (1) Scientific system (e.g. research, funding, access, scientific development, among others), and (2) Specific apps for scenarios of the system (e.g. bio-techs, journals, climate, among others).

IV. LandScape of Desci

Until October 14, 2022, there were documented 117 projects distributed in 10 categories in the landscape of active projects in DeSci; and are the following:

• DeSci DAOs (26): AthenaDAO, Cherubs DAO, MedDAO, NeuraDAO, CRISPR DAO, NewAtlantis, CryoDAO, NineLivesDAO, CureDAO, OpScientia, DeNature DAO, PsyDAO, FrontierDAO, ReputableDAO, Future Foods DAO, Research Collective, GenomesDAO, ResearchHub DAO, HairDAO, ScienceDAO, Knowan, Silvi, LabDAO, ValleyDAO, LoveHealth, VitaDAO

• Open Science (4): Center for Open Science, DIYBiology, DeepChem, Serratus

• DeSci Ecosystems (8): bio.xyz, DeSci, Gridcoin, SCINET, The Innovation Game, Halogen, ReSci Network, The DeSci Academy

• Biotech & Techbio (11): BioDAO, Open NMN, Fleming Protocol, Perlara PBC, Health X Change, Phage Directory, InnovativeBioresearch, Reserca, Molecule, Vibe Bio, Open Therapeutics

• Arts & NFTs (9): ᗩTOᗰIᑕ ᕼᗴᗩᖇT ᑎᖴT, PlantGang, Dnaverse, SameYou, Spinal Cord NFT, Existential Hope, UltraRare Bio, GENE Scientific art, Gels on ArtBlocks

• Publishing (12): Planck, Ants-Review, sci2sci, Atoms, Scholar, deScier, Scriptus, flashpub, Seeds of Science, PeeryView, TalentDAO, Agora Labs

• Data storage & Protocols (10): Athena Protocol, Kamu, Bacalhau, Ocean Protocol, Ceramic, pRoots, DeTechWorld, Protocol Labs, Habitat Health, Weavechain

• Foundations & Institutes (6): Arc Institute, ArcadiaScience, Convergent Research, Foresight Institute, New Science, Astera Institute

• Financing (14): AntidoteDAO, AxonDAO, BeakerDAO, Crowd Funded Cures, Experiment, GainForest, Gitcoin, Giveth, Impact Finance, Medical.watch, Repro Grants, Science Fund, Sesame Foundation, Viral Cure

• Communities and Chats (17): Blockchain for Science, DeSci Africa, DeSci Berlin, DeSci Boston, DeSci Brazil, DeSci China, DeSci Collective, DeSci Global, DeSci Japan, DeSci LATAM, DeSci London, DeSciWorld, Friendzymes, Just One Giant Lab, Nucleate Dojo, SCRF, Web3 Women in Science

Honorable mentions: DB DAO, Researchain, EncrypGen, DeSciReport, Abakhus, ReFiDAO, Toucan, KLIMA DAO, DeSci Italia, Ethichub, CryptoAltruism, to list a few…

As you see, there is a crypto ecological guild that is thriving.

V. Concluding remarks

It could be argued that DeSci represents a paradigm shift in science, as it seeks to create a more open, transparent, and democratic system for conducting and sharing scientific research. It involves the use of decentralized technology, such as blockchain, to facilitate the funding, creation, review, and dissemination of scientific knowledge, and it seeks to involve a wider range of people in the scientific process. DeSci also challenges some of the assumptions and practices of traditional science, such as the focus on proprietary knowledge and the hierarchical structure of the scientific community.

DeSci would be an extension of existing paradigms in science. It builds on the work of previous scientists and researchers, and it incorporates many of the same principles and practices as traditional science. It may also be seen as part of a broader trend in science, rather than a radical break with the past. Ultimately, whether DeSci is a new paradigm in science will depend on how it is understood and interpreted by the scientific community and the broader public.

DeSci could potentially solve some of the problems that currently exist in traditional science, such as knowledge monopoly, information silos, and other bottleneck effects. As it matures, it could also promote sustainability through the reform of education, management, technology, industrial, and social systems.

However, it is important to mention that DeSci is still a relatively unestablished new and emerging field, and it is still unknown how it will develop and evolve. The extent to which it will be able to cope with the challenges of TradSci and foster broader innovation will depend on a plethora of factors, including the adoption and use of decentralized technologies, the involvement and backing of the scientific community, and the overall societal and political environment. It is also possible that DeSci will encounter its own challenges and limitations, and that it may not be able to completely optimize its potential as a new scientific paradigm. Ultimately, the success and influence of DeSci will be determined by how it is implemented and applied in practice.

DeSci is a new movement in times of the Anthropocene, that has not yet emerged or been fully developed. It is a hypothetical approach to science that emphasizes decentralization and collaboration and seeks to create solutions to sociocultural problems through the use of new tools and technologies (e.g. “Web3”).

I think that one of the main goals DeSci, is to achieve equilibrium and harmony with nature. It could create a gateway to a plethora of knowledge opportunities in all branches of science.

https://opensea.io/assets/ethereum/0xc6A5765cfA7630574523a0e7539dA35287bad5F0/6

Key References:

Hamburg, S. (2022). A Guide to DeSci, the Latest Web3 Movement. Future/a16z. https://future.com/what-is-decentralized-science-aka-desci/

Ethereum (2022). Decentralized science (DeSci). https://ethereum.org/en/desci/

Ding, W., Hou, J., Li, J., Guo, C., Qin, J., Kozma, R., & Wang, F. Y. (2022). DeSci based on Web3 and DAO: A comprehensive overview and reference model. IEEE Transactions on Computational Social Systems, 9(5), 1563-1573, doi:10.1109/TCSS.2022.3204745

Moreland, K. (2022). DeSci: Modern Science Enabled by Web3 Technology. Ledger Academy. https://www.ledger.com/academy/desci-modern-science-enabled-by-web3-technology

DeSciWorld DAO (2022). Awesome DeSci: A curated list of awesome Decentralized Science (DeSci) resources, projects, articles, and more. Github. https://github.com/DeSciWorldDAO/awesome-desci

Ducrée, J., Codyre, M., Walshe, R., & Barting, S. (2022). DeSci-Decentralized Science. Preprints 2022, 2022050223, doi:10.20944/preprints202205.0223.v1