1.
Standard Ebooks: liberated ebooks, carefully produced for the true book lover
(Standard Ebooks: liberated ebooks, carefully produced for the true book lover)

Summary:

Standard Ebooks is a volunteer project that creates high-quality, free editions of public domain ebooks. They take existing texts, format them beautifully, and ensure they are free of copyright issues.

Key Features:

  1. Professional Formatting: Unlike many free ebooks, Standard Ebooks uses modern typography and formatting standards to make their books look professional.

  2. Thorough Proofreading: Each ebook is carefully proofread against the original text to fix typos and errors.

  3. Detailed Metadata: They provide extensive information about each book, making it easy for readers to find and understand the content.

  4. Advanced Technology: Standard Ebooks incorporate the latest features for ereaders, such as hyphenation and pop-up footnotes, to enhance the reading experience.

  5. Attractive Covers: They design unique and appealing covers for each ebook, rather than relying on generic designs.

  6. Clean Code: The coding of their ebooks is consistent and well-structured, making it easy for others to use or learn from.

  7. Open Source & Public Domain: All ebooks are free and open-source, allowing anyone to contribute or modify them. Their work is also released into the public domain, promoting unrestricted access to culture.

Overall, Standard Ebooks aims to provide a superior reading experience while ensuring that classic literature is accessible to everyone.

Author: tosh | Score: 821

2.
The "S" in MCP Stands for Security
(The "S" in MCP Stands for Security)

No summary available.

Author: skilldeliver | Score: 442

3.
Pitfalls of Safe Rust
(Pitfalls of Safe Rust)

Summary of "Pitfalls of Safe Rust"

Key Points:

  1. Understanding Safe Rust: While Rust is known for memory safety, developers must also manage other types of risks and bugs that the compiler does not catch.

  2. Common Issues in Safe Rust:

    • Type casting errors (e.g., integer overflows)
    • Logic errors
    • Panics from using unwrap or expect
    • Vulnerabilities in third-party libraries
    • Race conditions
  3. Preventive Measures:

    • Integer Overflow: Use checked arithmetic methods to prevent overflow.
    • Type Conversions: Prefer From::from() and TryFrom for safe conversions instead of using as.
    • Bounded Types: Use types that prevent invalid states (e.g., using NonZeroUsize).
    • Array Indexing: Avoid direct indexing; use methods like .get() to prevent panics.
    • Custom Types for Business Logic: Create custom types for domain-specific logic instead of using primitive types.
    • Default Values: Be cautious with default implementations to avoid invalid states.
    • Debug Implementation: Avoid exposing sensitive data in debug output.
    • Serialization: Implement custom serialization for sensitive data to prevent leaks.
    • TOCTOU Vulnerabilities: Ensure safety by checking resource conditions right before use.
    • Timing Attacks: Use constant-time comparisons for sensitive data to prevent information leakage.
    • Resource Limits: Set explicit limits on input sizes to prevent denial-of-service attacks.
    • Path Handling: Be aware of how Path::join operates with absolute paths to avoid unexpected results.
  4. Tooling:

    • Use cargo-geiger to check for unsafe code in dependencies.
    • Utilize Clippy for catching potential issues at compile time.
  5. Conclusion: Even though Rust provides safety features, developers need to be diligent about avoiding common pitfalls. Testing, linting, and code reviews are essential for maintaining robust Rust applications.

By following these guidelines, you can write safer and more reliable Rust code.

Author: pjmlp | Score: 83

4.
The Treachery of Image Files (2020)
(The Treachery of Image Files (2020))

No summary available.

Author: appleorchard46 | Score: 13

5.
Hiding elements that require JavaScript without JavaScript
(Hiding elements that require JavaScript without JavaScript)

The text discusses strategies for hiding elements on a website that require JavaScript when JavaScript is disabled. Here are the key points:

  1. Using <noscript> Tag: This HTML tag displays content only when JavaScript is off. It can be used to show alternative content, like a simple link instead of a button, when JavaScript is disabled.

  2. JavaScript Detection: One method to show elements only when JavaScript is enabled is to add a class to the <html> element using JavaScript. However, this can lead to extra CSS rules, making it cumbersome.

  3. Style Overrides: Another approach involves using <noscript> with CSS to hide specific elements when JavaScript is disabled. This is straightforward but can become tedious as more features are added.

  4. Simplified Class Method: The author suggests using a single class, d-js-required, to mark elements that need JavaScript. When JavaScript is disabled, those elements will be hidden without needing multiple CSS rules.

  5. Conclusion: This method simplifies the process of managing elements that depend on JavaScript, allowing for a cleaner and more efficient codebase.

The overall aim is to ensure the website remains functional and user-friendly regardless of JavaScript availability.

Author: mtlynch | Score: 50

6.
Gumroad's Interestingly Timed "Open-Source" Play
(Gumroad's Interestingly Timed "Open-Source" Play)

Gumroad, a service for creators, has announced that it will open-source its platform, although some critics argue this isn't truly open-source. The author, who has personal aversions to the name "Gumroad," acknowledges the platform's importance in the creator economy but raises concerns about its recent changes, including reduced customer support and confusing licensing terms. Users have reported issues with support being handled primarily by chatbots, which can be frustrating.

The licensing agreement limits use to companies with under $1 million in revenue, which could force successful creators to pay fees. This announcement coincided with a Wired article revealing that Gumroad's CEO, Sahil Lavingia, is working at the Department of Veterans Affairs while automating many roles at Gumroad. The author suggests creators might consider self-hosting alternatives instead of relying on platforms like Gumroad, advocating for more control over their work and reducing dependency on middlemen.

Author: pier25 | Score: 138

7.
Gmail E2E is as terrible as expected
(Gmail E2E is as terrible as expected)

Google's new end-to-end encryption (E2E) for Gmail is disappointing. To read an encrypted email, the recipient must open a "minimal Gmail" interface, even if they don’t have a Google account. This setup means that only Gmail can read Gmail-encrypted emails, making it less secure and user-friendly.

Previously, emails could be exchanged among various services (like Gmail and Outlook), but now if someone receives an encrypted email from Gmail, they are forced to use Google's service, which involves tracking and other unwanted features. Google's approach allows IT teams to control email access, effectively making Google the owner of the message. As a result, many users may classify these emails as spam, as they prefer not to engage with Gmail.

Author: HypnoticOcelot | Score: 38

8.
New Theoretical Research Trends in Cartography
(New Theoretical Research Trends in Cartography)

The article discusses the evolution of cartography, which is the practice of map-making. Initially, it was considered more of an art than a science. Starting in the 1950s, researchers began to adopt a more scientific approach, influenced by the work of Robinson on map aesthetics. In the 1970s, the focus shifted to understanding maps as communication tools, aiming to convey information clearly with minimal distractions or "noise."

With advancements in computer technology, recent research has changed the perspective on maps. Rather than just tools for sharing known information, maps can now help uncover unknown patterns in spatial data. This new approach, called "cartographic visualization," allows for the creation of various representations of data to explore different questions and reveal new insights.

The article emphasizes how this shift in understanding, drawing from fields like computer graphics and cognitive science, has energized cartographic research and holds the potential for creating better maps.

Author: bryanrasmussen | Score: 11

9.
Neutron Stars Hint at Another Dimension
(Neutron Stars Hint at Another Dimension)

No summary available.

Author: dnetesn | Score: 92

10.
Show HN: I built a Rust crate for running unsafe code safely
(Show HN: I built a Rust crate for running unsafe code safely)

Summary of mem-isolate: Run Unsafe Code Safely

Mem-isolate is a tool that allows you to run potentially unsafe code in a separate process without affecting the main program's memory. It uses the fork() system call to create a child process, which runs the code and returns the result back to the parent process safely.

Key Features:

  • Memory Isolation: The function runs in a copy of the parent's memory state, ensuring it cannot alter the parent’s memory.
  • Use Cases: It is useful for running code that may cause memory leaks, heap fragmentation, or other unsafe actions.
  • Platform Limitations: It only works on Unix-like systems (Linux, macOS, BSD) and does not support Windows or WebAssembly.

How It Works:

  1. Creates a communication pipe between the parent and child processes.
  2. Uses fork() to duplicate the parent process.
  3. Executes the provided function in the child process.
  4. Waits for the child to finish and sends the result back to the parent.

Performance:

  • Running the isolated process introduces some overhead (about 1.9ms), but it is a reasonable trade-off for the safety it provides.
  • Benchmarks show that direct function calls are much faster (~1.5ns), but mem-isolate's safety features are beneficial for many applications.

Licensing:

Mem-isolate is available under the MIT or Apache License, Version 2.0.

This summary simplifies the key points about how mem-isolate works and its intended use.

Author: braxxox | Score: 78

11.
Max severity RCE flaw discovered in widely used Apache Parquet
(Max severity RCE flaw discovered in widely used Apache Parquet)

A critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability has been found in all versions of Apache Parquet up to 1.15.0. This flaw, identified as CVE-2025-30065, allows attackers to potentially take control of systems by using specially crafted Parquet files. The vulnerability has a maximum severity score of 10.0 and was fixed in version 1.15.1.

Apache Parquet is widely used in big data environments and analytics, making this a serious threat. Major companies like Netflix and Uber use it, and the vulnerability could impact data pipelines that import these files. It was disclosed on April 1, 2025, by Amazon researcher Keyi Li.

To exploit the flaw, an attacker must convince a user to import a malicious Parquet file. While no active exploitation has been reported, the risk is significant due to the widespread use of Parquet. Users are advised to upgrade to version 1.15.1 immediately or avoid untrusted Parquet files and strengthen monitoring on systems that process them.

Author: andy99 | Score: 89

12.
SeedLM: Compressing LLM Weights into Seeds of Pseudo-Random Generators
(SeedLM: Compressing LLM Weights into Seeds of Pseudo-Random Generators)

The paper "SeedLM: Compressing LLM Weights into Seeds of Pseudo-Random Generators," published in April 2025, addresses the high costs associated with using Large Language Models (LLMs) in natural language processing. The authors present a new method called SeedLM, which compresses model weights using seeds from a pseudo-random generator. This method generates a random matrix during inference, which helps reconstruct the model's weight blocks efficiently.

Key points include:

  • Efficiency: SeedLM reduces memory access and speeds up memory-bound tasks by optimizing computing resources.
  • Data-Free Approach: Unlike other methods that require calibration data, SeedLM works without it and performs well across various tasks.
  • Performance: Tests on the Llama3 70B model show that SeedLM maintains accuracy with significant compression (down to 3 and 4 bits) and competes well with existing methods.
  • Speed-Up: FPGA tests indicate that SeedLM can achieve up to a 4x speed increase compared to traditional FP16 models as the model size increases.

Overall, SeedLM offers a promising solution for making LLMs more accessible and efficient for deployment.

Author: pizza | Score: 135

13.
QVQ-Max: Think with Evidence
(QVQ-Max: Think with Evidence)

Summary of QVQ-Max Release

In December, we introduced QVQ-72B-Preview, but it had several issues. Now, we are excited to announce QVQ-Max, our new visual reasoning model. This model can understand and analyze images and videos, helping with tasks like solving math problems, programming, and artistic creation.

Why Visual Reasoning Matters
Traditional AI relies mostly on text, but much information is visual. Understanding images, charts, and diagrams is crucial for tasks like evaluating architectural blueprints. QVQ-Max is designed to "see," "understand," and "think" about visual information, making it a powerful assistant.

Core Capabilities
QVQ-Max has three main strengths:

  1. Detailed Observation: It can identify and analyze elements in images, from objects to text.
  2. Deep Reasoning: It goes beyond just seeing; it can analyze information and draw conclusions, like solving geometry problems based on diagrams.
  3. Flexible Application: It can assist with tasks such as designing illustrations, writing scripts, and even refining sketches.

Applications
QVQ-Max is useful in various scenarios:

  • Workplace: Helps with data analysis, organizing information, and coding.
  • Learning: Supports students by solving complex problems and explaining concepts clearly.
  • Daily Life: Provides practical advice, like outfit suggestions or cooking guidance based on images.

Future Improvements
This is just the first version, and we plan to enhance QVQ-Max by improving observation accuracy, enabling it to handle complex tasks, and allowing richer interactions beyond text.

Overall, QVQ-Max is a promising visual reasoning model that combines visual understanding with analytical thinking, aiming to solve real-world problems effectively.

Author: wertyk | Score: 88

14.
Foundry (YC F24) Is Hiring
(Foundry (YC F24) Is Hiring)

Browser agents, which automate tasks in web browsers, currently struggle with over 80% of real-world tasks and are often slower than humans. Foundry aims to improve this by creating a simulator and training environment specifically for browser agents, similar to what has been done for self-driving cars and language models. This will help accurately benchmark, iterate, and enhance browser agents.

For instance, OpenAI could use Foundry to simulate DoorDash's website, allowing for extensive testing without real-world complications. Foundry's goal is to turn unreliable browser agents into dependable tools for businesses.

They are looking for a Fullstack Engineer to help build their web simulation platform. This role involves developing scalable simulations, creating user-friendly dashboards, collaborating with AI researchers, and influencing product development.

Candidates should have experience in building scalable products, knowledge of fullstack technologies (like React and Python), and cloud infrastructure management. Bonus points for experience in web scraping and AI techniques.

Joining Foundry means working with a talented team, growing rapidly in the AI field, and making a significant impact in a large automation market.

Author: lakabimanil | Score: 1

15.
Federal cuts disrupt repairs to iconic U.S. trails
(Federal cuts disrupt repairs to iconic U.S. trails)

Storms have severely damaged the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Appalachian Trail (AT), two famous hiking routes in the U.S. Federal budget cuts have hindered repair efforts and reduced staff, making hiking these trails even more challenging.

Eric Kipperman, a guide for the PCT, warns hikers that they will face more obstacles, as many trail repairs planned for 2025 have been canceled. The hiking community is concerned about safety, as parts of the trail may be impassable due to downed trees and other hazards.

The cuts have also affected the Appalachian Trail, which suffered damage from Hurricane Helene. Both trails are crucial for outdoor enthusiasts and local economies, but the federal reductions threaten their maintenance and existence.

Despite the challenges, many hikers are determined to tackle the trails, showing resilience and a desire for adventure. However, ongoing maintenance is essential to ensure these trails remain accessible and safe for future generations.

Author: geox | Score: 90

16.
Apple’s Darwin OS and XNU Kernel Deep Dive
(Apple’s Darwin OS and XNU Kernel Deep Dive)

This text provides an in-depth exploration of Apple's Darwin operating system and its XNU kernel, which serves as the foundation for macOS and iOS. Here are the key points summarized:

  1. What is XNU?: The XNU kernel combines a Mach microkernel with BSD Unix components, offering a unique architecture that balances modularity and performance.

  2. Development History:

    • Mach Origins: Developed in the 1980s, Mach aimed to create a microkernel separating low-level functions from higher-level services.
    • NeXTSTEP: Created by NeXT (founded by Steve Jobs), it integrated Mach with BSD for performance, leading to the development of XNU.
    • Apple Acquisition: Apple acquired NeXT in 1996, transitioning to Mac OS X, which integrated the XNU kernel.
    • Evolution: Over the years, Mac OS X evolved from Rhapsody to modern macOS, incorporating features like 64-bit support, improved security, and support for various architectures.
  3. Modern Developments:

    • Apple Silicon: The transition to Apple’s custom ARM64 chips introduced new challenges, leading to enhanced scheduling for heterogeneous CPU architectures and unified memory management.
    • Virtualization and Security: XNU supports virtualization through a framework that allows running lightweight VMs. Security advancements include the introduction of Secure Enclaves and exclaves, isolating sensitive operations from the main kernel.
  4. Kernel Architecture:

    • Hybrid Design: XNU merges Mach's microkernel features with BSD’s monolithic structure, optimizing performance by co-locating critical services.
    • Memory Management: The system uses advanced virtual memory techniques, including copy-on-write and shared memory.
    • Scheduling: XNU’s scheduler is designed for both desktop and mobile environments, adapting to multi-core and energy-efficient architectures.
  5. Conclusion: XNU has successfully evolved from its roots in Mach and BSD to support modern OS demands, demonstrating a flexible architecture that integrates new technologies while maintaining stability and performance.

Overall, XNU represents a sophisticated operating system kernel that balances the complexities of modern computing with robust performance and security features.

Author: tansanrao | Score: 412

17.
Thomas Rattigan, short-lived Commodore CEO
(Thomas Rattigan, short-lived Commodore CEO)

Thomas Rattigan became the CEO of Commodore on April 1, 1986, after previously serving as COO. His tenure lasted just over a year, ending abruptly on April 23, 1987, when he was fired by Irving Gould without warning. Despite improving the company’s financial situation—from a $237 million loss to a $22 million profit in one quarter—Rattigan's high-profile management style displeased Gould. He later sued Commodore for $9 million and won in 1991.

Rattigan, who had a background in business and previously worked at PepsiCo, implemented cost-cutting measures and focused on product development during his time as CEO. After his departure, he took on roles at G. Heileman Brewing Co. and RJR Nabisco. Commodore continued to face executive turnover and financial instability after Rattigan's exit.

Author: rbanffy | Score: 41

18.
Blacksmithing and Lisp
(Blacksmithing and Lisp)

Summary: "Blacksmithing and Lisp"

The author, Joe Marshall, shares his hobby of blacksmithing and draws parallels to programming in Lisp. He describes how mild steel is easy to work with when heated, allowing for mistakes to be easily corrected. Just like customizing tools in blacksmithing, Lisp can be tailored to better fit programming problems.

He explains the process of making custom tongs for handling hot metal, which reflects the concept of bootstrapping—creating tools from simpler tools. This emphasizes the creativity involved in both blacksmithing and programming.

Marshall notes the challenges of working with hot steel, including the risk of burns, but mentions that one quickly learns to handle the heat safely. Overall, he highlights the similarities between the two crafts, focusing on problem-solving and adaptability.

Author: 082349872349872 | Score: 114

19.
Charging electric vehicles 5x faster in subfreezing temps
(Charging electric vehicles 5x faster in subfreezing temps)

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new method for manufacturing electric vehicle (EV) batteries that allows them to charge 500% faster in cold temperatures, specifically at -10°C (14°F). This innovation addresses the common issues of slow charging and reduced battery range during winter, which have deterred potential EV buyers.

The key to this advancement is a special coating on the battery's electrodes combined with microscale channels that improve lithium ion movement. This design prevents the buildup of lithium plating, which can hinder charging and reduce battery capacity. The modified batteries can maintain 97% of their capacity even after 100 fast charges in cold conditions.

Current EV batteries struggle in cold weather because lithium ions move slower, leading to longer charging times. Traditional solutions have focused on increasing electrode thickness, which improves range but slows charging. The new approach allows for fast charging without sacrificing energy density.

Despite the growing popularity of EVs, interest has declined recently, with fewer consumers considering them for their next vehicle. The new charging technology aims to resolve the inconvenience of long charging times, especially in winter conditions.

The University plans to develop processes for mass production, and they have applied for a patent while partnering with Arbor Battery Innovations to commercialize the technology.

Author: gnabgib | Score: 8

20.
The order of files in /etc/ssh/sshd_config.d/ matters
(The order of files in /etc/ssh/sshd_config.d/ matters)

No summary available.

Author: NGRhodes | Score: 213

21.
Lessons from open source in the Mexican government
(Lessons from open source in the Mexican government)

No summary available.

Author: signa11 | Score: 242

22.
Show HN: LocalScore – Local LLM Benchmark
(Show HN: LocalScore – Local LLM Benchmark)

To use LocalScore, you can either download one of the Official Models or use your own .gguf models.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Choose Your Operating System: You can run LocalScore on MacOS/Linux or Windows.

  2. Select a Benchmark: Pick from the following options, which require different amounts of memory:

    • Tiny - 1B (about 2GB required)
    • Small - 8B (about 6GB required)
    • Medium - 14B (about 10GB required)
  3. Download LocalScore:

    • For Official Models, download the model you need.
    • Open the command prompt (cmd.exe) and run the appropriate command based on your model.
  4. Troubleshooting: If you face issues, refer to the troubleshooting guide or check the README for more documentation. There’s also a helpful video available if you need assistance.

This summary simplifies the process of running LocalScore, focusing on the essential steps and options available.

Author: sipjca | Score: 63

23.
My Browser WASM't Prepared for This. Using DuckDB, Apache Arrow and Web Workers
(My Browser WASM't Prepared for This. Using DuckDB, Apache Arrow and Web Workers)

No summary available.

Author: jjp | Score: 88

24.
What if we made advertising illegal?
(What if we made advertising illegal?)

The idea of making all advertising illegal is proposed as a radical solution to combat manipulation and protect democracy. The argument is that eliminating advertising would remove the financial incentives for creating addictive and misleading content, which distorts reality and harms society.

By banning advertising, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok would lose their economic foundation, making it harder for populists and foreign actors to exploit these tools for divisive messaging. The author believes that advertising no longer serves to inform consumers but instead manipulates them emotionally to drive purchases.

The notion of advertising as a form of harassment rather than free speech is emphasized, arguing that it invades personal spaces with targeted messages. While this proposal may seem far-fetched, the author encourages readers to reflect on the negative impacts of advertising and consider a future without it, similar to how society has moved past other harmful practices.

Author: smnrg | Score: 1618

25.
MonkeysPaw – a prompt-driven web framework in Ruby
(MonkeysPaw – a prompt-driven web framework in Ruby)

MonkeysPaw is a new web framework in Ruby that allows users to create web pages using simple prompts instead of traditional coding. Instead of writing HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, you describe what you want in natural language, and MonkeysPaw generates the web pages based on those descriptions.

Key Features:

  • Generates entire web pages from prompt files.
  • Handles routing, layouts, and styling through natural language.
  • Turns vague ideas into functioning JavaScript.

The framework emphasizes content-first development, allowing users to express their ideas easily. It aims to reduce the gap between thought and implementation, making web development more accessible.

However, users should be aware that like the story of the Monkey's Paw, results may not always be exactly as expected. There may be slight inaccuracies, and complex features could require precise wording to work correctly.

MonkeysPaw is available as a Ruby gem, with installation instructions on GitHub. The creator plans to expand its features in the future.

Author: daviducolo | Score: 13

26.
Show HN: I built a word game. My mom thinks it's great. What do you think?
(Show HN: I built a word game. My mom thinks it's great. What do you think?)

It seems that there is no text provided for summarization. Please share the text you would like summarized, and I'll be happy to help!

Author: mkate | Score: 454

27.
Recent AI model progress feels mostly like bullshit
(Recent AI model progress feels mostly like bullshit)

About nine months ago, the author and friends started a company to use AI for monitoring code for security issues, aiming to replace some functions of human security testers. They have been developing this tool since June 2024 and initially saw improvements with the release of the Claude 3.5 model, which enhanced their internal benchmarks and the quality of vulnerability reports.

However, they found that subsequent AI model releases did not significantly improve their tool’s performance or bug-finding capabilities. Despite high benchmark scores from new models, the author and other startup founders experienced similar disappointments, suggesting that these scores may not reflect real-world utility.

The author raises concerns about the validity of benchmarks, arguing they often do not measure practical skills relevant to job performance. For instance, standardized tests may not predict how effective an AI will be in real-world tasks like software engineering or long-term memory tasks.

The text also discusses the potential dishonesty among AI labs regarding their models' capabilities, suggesting that they may exaggerate performance to attract investment and talent without facing legal consequences for misleading claims.

Lastly, the author emphasizes the importance of ensuring AI systems are virtuous and reliable, as they will increasingly influence societal structures. They express caution about relying solely on benchmarks and advocate for a deeper understanding of AI performance in practical applications.

Author: paulpauper | Score: 136

28.
The Llama 4 herd
(The Llama 4 herd)

No summary available.

Author: georgehill | Score: 1171

29.
'Minecraft Movie' Leaks Online: Full Unfinished Version Shared
('Minecraft Movie' Leaks Online: Full Unfinished Version Shared)

An unfinished version of "A Minecraft Movie" has leaked online ahead of its release. Screenshots and clips, featuring incomplete visual effects, circulated on social media and file-sharing sites, prompting swift removal by rights holders. Such leaks are rare, raising concerns about how this version was accessed and shared. Despite the leak, the film, produced by Warner Bros. and Legendary Entertainment, is expected to perform well at the box office, with projections of over $130 million in its opening weekend. This puts it in competition with "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" for record openings for video game adaptations. The movie, which cost $150 million to make, follows four characters who enter a cubic world through a portal. "Minecraft" is hugely popular, having launched in 2011 and generated numerous spinoffs and merchandise. Warner Bros. and Legendary have not yet commented on the leak.

Author: austinallegro | Score: 10

30.
Faster interpreters in Go: Catching up with C++
(Faster interpreters in Go: Catching up with C++)

Summary: Faster SQL Interpreters in Go

Vicent Martí discusses improvements made to the SQL evaluation engine in Vitess, an open-source database that powers PlanetScale. Initially, the engine operated as an Abstract Syntax Tree (AST) evaluator, but it has been replaced with a Virtual Machine (VM) written in Go. This new VM is significantly faster and easier to maintain than the previous Go interpreter, matching the performance of the C++ evaluation code in MySQL.

Key Points:

  1. Vitess Overview: Vitess allows for scalable SQL query processing across multiple MySQL instances, making it efficient for handling complex queries in a distributed environment.

  2. SQL Evaluation: The evaluation engine interprets SQL expressions that cannot be executed in MySQL directly. These expressions are crucial for operations like filtering and aggregating results.

  3. Performance Improvements: The new VM outperforms the previous AST-based interpreter by leveraging static typing through semantic analysis of SQL expressions, allowing for specialized bytecode that avoids runtime type checks.

  4. VM Design: The VM is designed to execute a series of callbacks (functions) rather than using a traditional switch statement for instruction dispatch, making implementation simpler and more efficient.

  5. Benchmarks: The new evaluation engine shows up to 20 times faster performance compared to the original design, achieving comparable speeds to MySQL's C++ implementation.

  6. Future Considerations: While JIT (Just-In-Time) compilation is often a consideration for performance improvements, it is deemed unnecessary for SQL operations in this case, as the current VM's performance is already efficient.

Overall, the transition to a VM has optimized the SQL evaluation process in Vitess, balancing speed and maintainability while keeping pace with established C++ solutions.

Author: ksec | Score: 223

31.
Serving Vector Tiles, Fast
(Serving Vector Tiles, Fast)

After creating vector tiles, you need to find a way to serve them to users. Fabian Rechsteiner conducted a speed comparison of six vector tile servers that use PostGIS, instead of PMTiles or MBTiles. The servers tested include:

  • BBOX
  • ldproxy
  • Martin
  • pg_tileserv
  • Tegola
  • TiPg

You can find detailed speed statistics in his GitHub repository, along with an interactive comparison of the servers using MapLibre and data from the canton of Thurgau at https://vectormap.ch.

Rechsteiner's findings are part of his Master's thesis from the University of Salzburg, which is available in German. Speed is a key factor when choosing a vector tile server, but it’s not the only consideration.

Author: altilunium | Score: 95

32.
North America Is Dripping from Below, Geoscientists Discover
(North America Is Dripping from Below, Geoscientists Discover)

No summary available.

Author: jandrewrogers | Score: 133

33.
The ADHD body double: A unique tool for getting things done
(The ADHD body double: A unique tool for getting things done)

No summary available.

Author: yamrzou | Score: 320

34.
Exeter's unassuming co-op worker leads double life as 'Lord of the Logos'
(Exeter's unassuming co-op worker leads double life as 'Lord of the Logos')

Christophe Szpajdel, known as the "Lord of the Logos," is a 54-year-old artist from Exeter who works part-time at a Co-op. Despite his humble job, he has created logos for high-profile clients, including pop star Rihanna and many heavy metal bands. Christophe uses traditional methods, drawing with pencil and paper, and often finds inspiration outdoors.

He started his artistic journey in childhood, influenced by wildlife art and heavy metal music. His big break came in the 1990s when he designed logos for several notable metal bands. One of his most famous works was for Rihanna, which was featured at the MTV Video Music Awards.

Christophe aims for his logos to be visually appealing and readable, emphasizing fluidity and harmony in design. He faces tough competition in the logo design industry from cheaper, computer-generated designs, which is why he maintains his Co-op job for financial stability.

He has received several accolades, including the Artist of the Year 2025 International Prize, and continues to exhibit his work globally. In addition to his art, he participates in local exhibitions in Devon and has authored books about his designs.

Author: summoned | Score: 189

35.
montasaurus/result: A simple Rust-like Result type for Python 3
(montasaurus/result: A simple Rust-like Result type for Python 3)

Summary of the Result Library for Python 3

Overview: The Result library is a type for handling outcomes in Python 3, inspired by Rust. It can represent either a successful result (Ok(value)) or an error (Err(error)). This library is experimental and was created from a fork of an earlier unmaintained version.

Installation: To install the latest version, use:

uv add git+https://github.com/montasaurus/result

Key Features:

  • Result Type: Represents two states: Ok for success and Err for errors. You can check the state using functions like is_ok() or is_err().

  • Return Values: Functions can return a Result type instead of using tuples for success or error messages. This improves code clarity.

    Example before:

    def get_user_by_email(email: str) -> Tuple[Optional[User], Optional[str]]:
        ...
    

    Example after:

    def get_user_by_email(email: str) -> Result[User, str]:
        ...
    
  • Accessing Values: Use .ok_value to get the value from Ok and .err_value from Err. These properties are read-only.

  • Error Handling: The library provides methods like unwrap(), unwrap_err(), and unwrap_or() to handle values and errors effectively. You can also raise custom errors.

  • Mapping Functions: You can transform values in Result types using map() and map_err().

  • Decorators: The as_result() decorator converts regular functions to return Result types, allowing for easier error handling without changing existing logic.

  • Do Notation: This is a syntax feature for chaining operations on results, similar to Rust's features.

Usage Example: To handle division with error checking:

def divide(a: int, b: int) -> Result[int, str]:
    if b == 0:
        return Err("Cannot divide by zero")
    return Ok(a // b)

Conclusion: The Result library simplifies error handling in Python by providing a structured way to manage results and errors. It encourages more readable and maintainable code, especially in functions that can fail.

Author: networked | Score: 6

36.
A Vision for WebAssembly Support in Swift
(A Vision for WebAssembly Support in Swift)

The Swift community has been enhancing WebAssembly (Wasm) support, and this document outlines a vision for its future in Swift. Here are the key points:

  1. What is WebAssembly?

    • WebAssembly is a portable, secure, and high-performance virtual machine instruction set. It allows applications compiled into Wasm modules to run on any platform with a compatible runtime.
  2. Why WebAssembly in Swift?

    • Adding Wasm support to Swift makes the language more versatile, allowing it to be used in both client-side and server-side applications, including in web browsers where it wasn't available before.
  3. Security Features:

    • WebAssembly is designed with security in mind, as it restricts direct system access and runs in a controlled environment, making it harder for certain types of attacks.
  4. System Interface and Component Model:

    • The WebAssembly System Interface (WASI) provides APIs for interacting with the host operating system. Swift apps can use WASI libc, which enhances compatibility across the Wasm ecosystem.
    • The Component Model allows for better modularization of Wasm applications, defining interfaces and improving interoperability.
  5. Potential Use Cases:

    • Examples of using Wasm in Swift include creating portable Swift macros and improving security for developer tools by sandboxing code execution.
  6. Future Goals for Swift and WebAssembly:

    • Enhance API coverage for Wasm in Swift's core libraries.
    • Improve cross-compilation support and manage Swift SDKs more effectively.
    • Develop support for the Component Model as it stabilizes.
    • Improve debugging experiences and make Wasm interoperability as easy as C/C++ interop.
  7. Challenges:

    • Debugging Wasm can be difficult due to its architecture. Two approaches are being explored: using existing debuggers or embedding debugging tools within the Wasm engine.
    • Multi-threading support in Wasm is limited and depends on the runtime being used.
    • Transitioning to a 64-bit address space is in progress, but current limitations exist in how memory is managed.

In summary, the document outlines a robust plan to enhance WebAssembly support in Swift, emphasizing security, portability, and improved developer experience while also addressing existing challenges. Feedback from the community is welcomed for further development.

Author: LucidLynx | Score: 200

37.
Jeff Geerling won't connect his dishwasher to your stupid cloud [video]
(Jeff Geerling won't connect his dishwasher to your stupid cloud [video])

It seems like you may have meant to provide a specific text to summarize, but I don't see any text included. Please share the text you'd like summarized, and I’ll be glad to help!

Author: nikodunk | Score: 36

38.
Switzerland's vinyl turntable roundabout: Unique road art (2019)
(Switzerland's vinyl turntable roundabout: Unique road art (2019))

In Switzerland, there's a unique roundabout in the town of Lyss, designed to look like a giant vinyl turntable. This eye-catching traffic circle, known as the KUFA Kreisel, was completed in May 2019 and is located near a cultural venue called Kulturfabrik, which hosts various events.

The roundabout has a diameter of 12 meters, with the vinyl record itself measuring 10 meters. It also features 800 silver metal washers. Originally, there were different design ideas like a cargo container or an oversized microphone, but the final concept became a large turntable to fit the round shape of the roundabout.

This creative roundabout has gained popularity and is a fun stop for visitors traveling between Biel and Bern.

Author: gnabgib | Score: 33

39.
Dynamic Register Allocation on AMD's RDNA 4 GPU Architecture
(Dynamic Register Allocation on AMD's RDNA 4 GPU Architecture)

The text discusses the new dynamic register allocation feature of AMD's RDNA 4 GPU architecture. Here are the key points simplified:

  1. Occupancy vs. Register Count: Modern GPUs must balance the number of active threads (occupancy) with the number of registers each thread can use. High occupancy helps hide latency, but more registers can reduce the number of threads that can run simultaneously.

  2. RDNA 4 GPU Details: The RDNA 4 architecture allows for up to 256 vector general-purpose registers (VGPRs) per thread. However, it has a 192 KB register file, meaning if a workload uses more than 96 registers, it will reduce the number of active threads.

  3. Dynamic VGPR Allocation: This new feature allows threads to start with a minimum number of registers and request more as needed during execution, improving flexibility and potentially increasing the number of active threads.

  4. Allocation Process: When a thread needs more registers, it sends a request, which may succeed or fail. If it fails, the thread may have to wait until it can allocate the needed registers.

  5. Deadlock Avoidance: There are risks of deadlock during dynamic allocation, where all threads might need more registers than are available. AMD has implemented a deadlock avoidance mode to reserve enough registers to prevent this scenario.

  6. Limitations: Dynamic VGPR mode is only available for specific compute shaders and cannot be used with graphics shaders. It may also lead to inefficiencies if not enough threads are active.

  7. Comparison with Nvidia: Nvidia has a different method called "setmaxnreg" for adjusting register allocation mid-execution, which focuses on synchronizing threads rather than dynamic allocation.

  8. Future Prospects: AMD's dynamic VGPR feature is seen as a significant advancement, particularly for raytracing workloads, allowing more threads to operate without needing a larger register file.

In summary, AMD's RDNA 4 introduces dynamic VGPR allocation to improve performance by allowing flexible register use, particularly beneficial for raytracing, though it comes with some limitations and complexities.

Author: ingve | Score: 121

40.
Emulating an iPhone in QEMU
(Emulating an iPhone in QEMU)

No summary available.

Author: walterbell | Score: 252

41.
What's in that bright red fire retardant? No one will say, so we had it tested
(What's in that bright red fire retardant? No one will say, so we had it tested)

LAist reports on the use of fire retardants during the recent Palisades Fire and its environmental impact. Firefighting aircraft dropped over 280 loads of retardant, primarily MVP-Fx, which contains heavy metals like lead and arsenic—substances that can be harmful to humans and wildlife. Despite findings of these metals in tests conducted by USC, Perimeter Solutions, the manufacturer, claims the levels are below safety limits set by the EPA.

Cal Fire noted that the presence of heavy metals in retardants isn’t routinely checked, and they rely on the U.S. Forest Service for safety testing. LAist had to collect their own samples after their requests for testing were denied by relevant agencies. The tests revealed heavy metals in both field samples and unused retardant, raising questions about the safety data shared with the public.

Experts indicate that while the risk from occasional exposure to the retardant may be low for hikers and homeowners, heavy metals can pose serious health risks over time and may affect aquatic ecosystems. Concerns have also been raised about the lack of transparency regarding the potential health risks associated with these chemicals.

Author: littlexsparkee | Score: 153

42.
We are still using 88x31 buttons
(We are still using 88x31 buttons)

Summary: Why We Are Still Using 88x31 Buttons

88x31 buttons, popular in the late 90s and early 2000s, are experiencing a revival, especially within the Neocities community. These buttons are small, colorful, and easy to make, serving as a fun way to represent websites. Their origin is debated, with some attributing them to early Geocities or Netscape's "Now" buttons. The 88x31 size likely emerged from Netscape’s promotional efforts in the mid-90s.

Despite being impractical by modern standards, 88x31 buttons have endured due to their nostalgic appeal and ability to express personality on personal websites. Although there are larger formats that improve visibility, the charm and history of the 88x31 format have kept it alive. Many websites still host collections of these buttons, affirming their ongoing popularity in web culture.

Overall, while some may prefer alternatives for practical reasons, the 88x31 button remains a unique and cherished part of internet history.

Author: PaulHoule | Score: 134

43.
The Importance of Fact-Checking
(The Importance of Fact-Checking)

No summary available.

Author: NaOH | Score: 174

44.
Photons, neutrinos, and gravitational-wave astronomy
(Photons, neutrinos, and gravitational-wave astronomy)

Summary of Gravitational-Wave Astronomy

Introduction to Astronomy and Multi-Messenger Astronomy:

  • Astronomy traditionally focused on visible light until the 20th century when it expanded to include various wavelengths like gamma rays and radio waves. This shift made astronomy a multi-wavelength science.
  • The detection of neutrinos marked the beginning of "multi-messenger" astronomy, now enhanced by the addition of gravitational waves (GWs), enabling studies of regions and phenomena previously inaccessible.

Basics of General Relativity (GR) and Gravitational Waves:

  • General relativity describes gravity as the curvature of space-time caused by mass and energy.
  • Gravitational waves are fluctuations in this curvature, propagating at the speed of light and generated by accelerating mass distributions, particularly those with a changing quadrupole moment.

Sources of Gravitational Waves:

  • Significant sources include non-spherical rotating compact objects (like neutron stars and black holes) and binary systems where two compact objects spiral toward each other, emitting GWs as they lose energy.
  • The amplitude of GWs decreases with distance but can be detected from far-off sources that are too faint for electromagnetic observations.

Indirect Detection of Gravitational Waves:

  • The Hulse-Taylor pulsar provided the first indirect evidence of GWs by showing changes in its orbit consistent with energy loss due to GW emission. This discovery was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics.

Direct Detection of Gravitational Waves:

  • The first direct detection occurred in 2015 with the merger of binary black holes (GW150914). Since then, multiple mergers have been detected, providing empirical support for theories about black holes and neutron stars.

The Future of Gravitational-Wave Astronomy:

  • Future detectors, including third-generation ground-based and space-based observatories, aim to enhance sensitivity and detection capabilities. These advancements will enable the study of earlier cosmic events, potentially revealing new insights into the universe's formation and evolution.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gravitational-wave astronomy provides a novel way to observe cosmic events.
  • Direct and indirect detections have confirmed the existence of various astrophysical phenomena, such as black holes.
  • Ongoing and future advancements in detection technology promise to deepen our understanding of the universe.
Author: ninocan | Score: 42

45.
Jumping Spiders
(Jumping Spiders)

The text lists various issues sorted by date, ranging from January 1938 to March/April 2025. The entries are divided into monthly and bi-monthly intervals, covering many years, with a focus on the most recent dates. Each entry indicates a specific timeframe but does not provide details about the issues themselves.

Author: rolph | Score: 127

46.
Compilers: Incrementally and Extensibly (2024)
(Compilers: Incrementally and Extensibly (2024))

No summary available.

Author: todsacerdoti | Score: 137

47.
Born in the Wrong Generation
(Born in the Wrong Generation)

The text describes a surreal and unsettling experience in a small American town, focusing on a man’s breakfast date with his beautiful submissive girlfriend. The setting is a perfect, bright diner where he contemplates his meal choices but ends up feeling trapped in repetitive thoughts and violent impulses. The narrative shifts to a bizarre world where he grapples with feelings of disconnection and confusion, as written language has become nonsensical and the people around him appear distorted.

The man reflects on a troubling past, including a dream about molluscs and a memory of a different woman who doesn’t meet his idealized standards. Despite his affection for his girlfriend, he struggles with dark thoughts about her. The piece culminates in a disturbing act where he attempts to force a plastic spoon into his nose, symbolizing a desperate desire to reclaim something lost. The girlfriend remains eerily cheerful throughout, highlighting the contrast between his turmoil and her seemingly unwavering support.

Overall, the text explores themes of nostalgia, identity, and the conflict between idealization and reality, set against a backdrop of a surreal and unsettling world.

Author: paulpauper | Score: 12

48.
Understanding Hydration Errors by Building a SSR React Project
(Understanding Hydration Errors by Building a SSR React Project)

Summary of Hydration Errors in React SSR

Hydration errors often occur when using React in server-side rendered (SSR) applications. These errors happen when the HTML generated by the server does not match what the client-side React expects. Common messages include "Text content does not match server-rendered HTML."

What is Server-Side Rendering (SSR)?

  • SSR is a technique where the server prepares the HTML of a webpage before sending it to the client, unlike Client-Side Rendering (CSR), where minimal HTML is sent, and JavaScript handles most rendering in the browser.

Building a Simple React SSR App:

  1. Install necessary packages (Express, React, ReactDOM).
  2. Create a basic React component that takes a prop.
  3. Set up an Express server to render this component to HTML.
  4. Use hydrateRoot for the client to attach event handlers to the server-rendered HTML, allowing interactivity.

Understanding Hydration:

  • Hydration connects the static HTML from the server with React's interactive capabilities on the client side.
  • If the server and client provide different props (e.g., message discrepancies), hydration errors occur.

Why Care About Hydration Errors?

  • They can lead to poor user experiences, such as unexpected content changes.
  • Mismatched code can lead to ambiguity in event handling, potentially causing serious issues.

Common Causes of Hydration Errors:

  • Differences between server-rendered and client-rendered content (e.g., timestamps, browser-specific elements).
  • Invalid HTML structures can also trigger errors.

Fixing Hydration Errors:

  • Ensure consistency between server and client rendering.
  • Use techniques like checking if the component has mounted before rendering certain elements.
  • For instance, use useEffect to delay setting state until after hydration, ensuring both client and server start with the same initial value.

In summary, understanding and addressing hydration errors is essential for creating smooth, interactive applications using React SSR.

Author: aisrael | Score: 22

49.
Peter Navarro Invented an Expert for His Books, Based on Himself (2019)
(Peter Navarro Invented an Expert for His Books, Based on Himself (2019))

No summary available.

Author: amarcheschi | Score: 109

50.
Open Source Coalition Announces 'Model-Signing' to Strengthen ML Supply Chain
(Open Source Coalition Announces 'Model-Signing' to Strengthen ML Supply Chain)

Model Signing 1.0.0 Overview

  • Release Date: April 5, 2025
  • Purpose: A tool for signing and verifying machine learning (ML) models to ensure their integrity and authenticity.
  • Installation: Use the command pip install model-signing.

Key Features:

  1. Integrity Protection: Allows users to sign ML models, making it possible to verify that they have not been altered.
  2. Signing Methods: Supports both modern (Sigstore) and traditional signing methods (using public keys or certificates).
  3. Transparency: Signing events are recorded in a transparency log, enabling users to verify that the model has been signed by a trusted source.

How to Use:

  • Command Line Interface (CLI): After installation, use commands like model_signing sign <model> to sign and model_signing verify <model> to verify.
  • API for Developers: Provides functions to integrate signing and verification into ML frameworks and workflows.

Requirements:

  • Python Version: Requires Python 3.9 or higher.
  • Target Audience: Primarily aimed at developers working with AI and machine learning.

Contributing and Documentation:

  • Detailed contributions and usage instructions can be found in the project's documentation.

This tool enhances security in the ML supply chain by providing verifiable claims about model integrity, making it crucial for developers in the AI space.

Author: m463 | Score: 63

51.
TinyWall is a free, feature-rich, and lightweight firewall for Windows
(TinyWall is a free, feature-rich, and lightweight firewall for Windows)

TinyWall Summary

TinyWall is a free and lightweight firewall that is easy to use. The source code is available online, but the main development is mostly inactive. Users can make their own improvements or create forks of the project.

Building TinyWall:

  • Tools Needed: Microsoft Visual Studio 2019 or 2022, Wix v3.14 Toolset, and the Visual Studio extension for Wix.
  • To build the application, open the solution file in Visual Studio and compile it.
  • To update the database of known applications, modify JSON files in the TinyWall\Database folder, run the application with the /develtool flag, and create a profiles.json file.
  • To build the installer, copy the application files into the MsiSetup\Sources\ProgramFiles\TinyWall folder, update necessary files, and compile the MsiSetup project.

Contributing:

  • Users should not open issues for feature requests or bugs but can fork the project to make changes. For larger changes, contact the project maintainer first.
  • If distributing a modified version, choose a different name than TinyWall.

Licensing:

  • The TaskDialog wrapper is public domain, while the rest of the code is under the GNU GPLv3 License.

Contact Information:

  • For more information, visit the TinyWall website or GitHub page. The contact person is Károly Pados.
Author: CHEF-KOCH | Score: 8

52.
We're back: How tuberculosis is set to surge globally once again
(We're back: How tuberculosis is set to surge globally once again)

No summary available.

Author: pseudolus | Score: 63

53.
Rich Text, Poor Text (2013)
(Rich Text, Poor Text (2013))

Summary of "Rich Text, Poor Text" by Adam Moore

Adam Moore discusses the importance of text presentation, such as bold and italic formatting, arguing that these tools are essential for effective communication, just like punctuation. He points out that while traditional text communication could be minimalistic, it would lack clarity and expressiveness.

Moore explains that early computer coding systems, like ASCII, did not include space for presentational attributes. This led to complex methods for embedding formatting information within text, which he believes muddles the content. He argues that formatting should be considered an integral part of language, not just a visual aid.

The author criticizes Unicode for not including standard ways to represent formatting, suggesting that a better approach would be to use part of the coding space for presentational attributes. He reflects on his views a year later, acknowledging that his comparison of markup and punctuation may have been too simplistic but still values the discussion on the role of presentation in language.

Author: SerCe | Score: 51

54.
NNCP
(NNCP)

Summary of NNCP

NNCP (Network Node Communication Protocol) is a secure tool for sending files and executing commands between devices without needing them to be online at the same time. It can use various transport methods like USB drives, tapes, radios, and even cloud services, making it very flexible and resilient, especially for devices with limited or no Internet access.

Key features of NNCP include:

  • Asynchronous Communication: Allows communication without real-time connections.
  • Security: All data is encrypted, authenticated, and checked for integrity.
  • Onion Routing: Provides additional security for relayed packets.
  • Multicast Support: Enables sending data to multiple nodes simultaneously.

NNCP is compared to UUCP (Unix-to-Unix Copy Protocol) and serves as a modern, secure version of it. It is particularly useful for creating small, peer-to-peer networks for file sharing, email, and command execution without relying on the Internet.

NNCP can support various applications, including email and Usenet, and can be integrated with other tools for additional functionality.

For more information and to download NNCP, visit NNCP's website.

Author: nmstoker | Score: 25

55.
Microsoft turns 50: A look back at everything from the Altair to the Zune
(Microsoft turns 50: A look back at everything from the Altair to the Zune)

Summary: Microsoft Turns 50

Microsoft, co-founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Their journey began in Seattle when they were teenagers fascinated by computing. In 1975, they created Microsoft BASIC, a programming language for the Altair 8800 computer, which marked the start of their software business. They aimed to make software that could work on multiple computer models, which was a novel idea at the time.

Their big breakthrough came with MS-DOS, which was pre-installed on early IBM personal computers. This helped Microsoft software become widely used. Later, they introduced Windows, a user-friendly operating system that revolutionized how people interacted with computers, making applications like Word and Excel commonplace.

Despite facing stiff competition from companies like Apple in the 2000s, Microsoft found success with the Xbox gaming console and has since expanded into cloud computing with Microsoft Azure. Today, the company is focusing on artificial intelligence, integrating it into their products like Bing and Office.

Overall, Microsoft has continually adapted and reinvented itself, playing a significant role in the development of personal computing and software.

Author: todsacerdoti | Score: 10

56.
Scientists witness living plant cells generate cellulose and form cell walls
(Scientists witness living plant cells generate cellulose and form cell walls)

No summary available.

Author: PaulHoule | Score: 99

57.
Rules for Negotiating a Job Offer (2016)
(Rules for Negotiating a Job Offer (2016))

Haseeb Qureshi is the Managing Partner at Dragonfly. He is an effective altruist who donates 33% of his income to charity. Haseeb has worked at Airbnb and Earn.com (which was acquired by Coinbase). He is also a writer and a former professional poker player.

Author: yamrzou | Score: 405

58.
E.U. Prepares Major Penalties Against X
(E.U. Prepares Major Penalties Against X)

No summary available.

Author: dotcoma | Score: 115

59.
Identifying a defective RAM IC on laptops with soldered memory
(Identifying a defective RAM IC on laptops with soldered memory)

The article discusses how to identify a defective RAM IC (Integrated Circuit) in laptops, specifically using a case study of the MacBook Pro Late 2013. This model has 16 GiB of RAM, which consists of 32 RAM ICs. When the memory fails tests, you can use software called Memtest86 to pinpoint the faulty IC.

Key points include:

  1. Memory Structure: The RAM has a data bus of 64 bits, requiring 8 ICs. There are 2 memory channels and 2 ranks per channel, totaling 32 ICs.

  2. Testing for Errors: Memtest86 is used to find memory errors. It can show which bit is failing but not the specific IC. The article notes that recent versions of Memtest86 have improved identification features, but this case used a specific version that works on the tested MacBook.

  3. Decoding Memory Addresses: To find the affected IC, the article explains how to decode the memory address reported by Memtest86. This involves some binary calculations to identify the rank and channel of the faulty IC.

  4. Identifying the IC: Using schematics, you can locate the specific IC on the logic board that corresponds to the failing memory bit.

  5. Repair Process: The faulty IC can be replaced using microsoldering techniques. After replacing the IC, running Memtest86 again should confirm that the issue is resolved.

The article emphasizes the need for caution as it relies on uncertain third-party information, and it highlights that other hardware issues might mimic RAM failures.

Author: userbinator | Score: 42

60.
World's largest wildlife crossing reaches critical milestone. Now what?
(World's largest wildlife crossing reaches critical milestone. Now what?)

The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, the world's largest wildlife crossing, has reached an important milestone by receiving soil for the first time after three years of construction. This specially formulated soil, designed to mimic local native soils, will help support plant life on the crossing.

Currently, the project is in its first stage, which involves adding 6,000 cubic yards of soil and planting native vegetation. Completion is expected by the end of 2026, delayed by past heavy rains. The final stage will connect the crossing to surrounding hills, allowing wildlife to safely cross the freeway, including notable animals like the local cougar, P-22.

The project has involved extensive planning, including gathering seeds from local plants and creating a nursery before construction began. Efforts are being made to ensure the crossing blends into the natural landscape, with features like drainage systems to prevent water accumulation.

Supporters, including government officials and wildlife advocates, gathered to celebrate the soil's arrival, marking a significant step toward restoring wildlife habitats fragmented by urban development. In the coming months, the area will be planted with various native species to promote a thriving ecosystem.

Author: Stratoscope | Score: 73

61.
An image of an archeologist adventurer who wears a hat and uses a bullwhip
(An image of an archeologist adventurer who wears a hat and uses a bullwhip)

The blog post discusses the impact of AI on creativity and originality, particularly in relation to image generation technology like GPT. It highlights the phenomenon of "Ghiblifying," where AI transforms images into a style reminiscent of Studio Ghibli, a famous animation company known for its labor-intensive filmmaking. The author points out that while AI can simplify complex artistic processes, it often lacks the soul and uniqueness of original art, leading to concerns about intellectual property theft.

The post also explores how AI can easily mimic recognizable characters, raising questions about the ethical implications of such technology. Despite the impressive capabilities of AI to generate imagery, the author believes it reflects a troubling trend of copying rather than creating. Ultimately, the piece emphasizes the need to consider the balance between innovation and respecting original works in the age of AI.

Author: participant3 | Score: 1469

62.
A Year of Rust in ClickHouse
(A Year of Rust in ClickHouse)

Summary:

Join us at the Open House ClickHouse user conference on May 28-29 in San Francisco. ClickHouse offers various cloud services and integrations for real-time analytics, machine learning, data warehousing, and observability.

A recent blog post discusses integrating the Rust programming language into ClickHouse. Instead of rewriting the entire codebase in Rust, the aim is to allow new system components to be developed in Rust while maintaining interoperability with existing C++ code. The integration started with adding the BLAKE3 hash function, followed by libraries like PRQL (a new query language) and Delta Lake (a data lake format).

Key challenges faced during this integration include:

  • Ensuring a secure and reproducible build process.
  • Managing memory and error handling between C++ and Rust.
  • Handling cross-compilation and library linking issues.
  • Addressing increased binary sizes from Rust components.

Despite these challenges, the integration of Rust has been successful, and the team is optimistic about its future in ClickHouse. They encourage Rust developers to contribute to the project.

Author: valyala | Score: 50

63.
The blissful Zen of a good side project
(The blissful Zen of a good side project)

The author reflects on their experience of starting a new side project after a long break from creating. They describe how they had been spending most evenings playing video games but felt unfulfilled and uninspired. Eventually, the need for change outweighed their fears, prompting them to work on a project using SvelteKit.

As they began creating, they felt a sense of freedom and joy that had been missing for a while. The author highlights the importance of creation in life, suggesting that it doesn't have to be artistic or conventional; it can be anything from building something tangible to fostering relationships or creating experiences. They emphasize that the value lies in the exploration and the act of creating itself, rather than the end result.

In conclusion, the author encourages readers to engage in their own side projects, emphasizing that the process of exploring and creating is what truly matters.

Author: ingve | Score: 532

64.
Tracking the international space station with an Arduino
(Tracking the international space station with an Arduino)

Last summer, I received a HackPack for my birthday, which includes fun hardware projects every two months. The first project was an IR turret that shoots foam bullets, but I wanted to modify it to track the International Space Station (ISS) instead.

The ISS is a large spacecraft orbiting Earth about 420 km above, moving at 28,000 km/h. It can be seen from Earth as a bright moving star at night. I wanted to build a device that points at the ISS so I can easily see it when it passes overhead.

To do this, I needed to know the current position of the ISS and my own location. NORAD tracks satellites and provides data to calculate their positions using a format called Two-Line Element (TLE). I used an algorithm called SGP4 to determine the ISS's position. This information helps us calculate the azimuth (angle from North) and elevation (angle from the horizon) to point at the ISS.

For the tracker, I used an Arduino Uno R4 Wifi, stepper motor, and servo motor for movement. I designed the body using 3D modeling software and assembled the components, ensuring the tracker could rotate fully.

I wrote code for the Arduino to control the tracker and connect to Wi-Fi. Once set up, the tracker updates its position every second, pointing at the ISS as it moves. It’s also possible to track other satellites by changing the catalog number in the code.

Overall, it was a fun and educational project that combined hardware and programming skills.

Author: proteusvacuum | Score: 61

65.
Database Protocols Are Underwhelming
(Database Protocols Are Underwhelming)

Summary: Database Protocols Are Underwhelming

The author critiques the protocols used by relational databases like SQL, PostgreSQL, and MySQL, suggesting they could be significantly improved for better usability. Here are the main points:

  1. Current Limitations: The protocols for executing queries are outdated and seem designed for human usage, complicating the developer experience. Issues arise from mutable state, where database connections can change configuration settings at any time, making it hard to manage state and recover from errors.

  2. Connection Management: When a connection is handed over to user code, its settings can be altered, leading to potential complications when the connection is returned. An explicit initial configuration phase would help manage connection states better.

  3. Error Handling and Retries: Handling network errors is a common challenge. The author emphasizes the importance of idempotency, where certain operations can be safely retried if they fail. SQL lacks clear idempotency rules, making it difficult for clients to know whether it's safe to retry a query.

  4. Idempotency Keys: The author discusses the concept of idempotency keys, which could help manage retries for non-idempotent operations. This feature could allow safe retries for any queries, similar to how it works in APIs like Stripe.

  5. Prepared Statements: While prepared statements help prevent SQL injection and can improve performance, they also create complexities. The session-scoped nature of prepared statement IDs means they can't be shared across connections easily, complicating resource management in applications that use connection pools.

  6. Recommendations: The author suggests that databases should allow parameterized queries without requiring prepared statements and could use predictable digests for shared prepared statements to improve efficiency.

In conclusion, while relational databases are powerful, their protocols need modernization to enhance the developer experience without altering the underlying SQL language.

Author: PaulHoule | Score: 104

66.
Non-US-based alternatives to popular services
(Non-US-based alternatives to popular services)

Non-U.S. Alternatives List Summary

This list provides non-U.S.-based alternatives to popular digital services, emphasizing privacy, security, and independence from U.S. surveillance. Here are the key points:

  • Data Privacy Risks: Using U.S. services means your data can be accessed by the government without consent, even if you're not an American. The Five Eyes Alliance allows data sharing between five countries, increasing surveillance risks. Non-U.S. services with U.S. ties also face similar threats.

  • Importance of Alternatives: The list promotes services that respect user privacy, reduce reliance on U.S. tech giants, and encourage transparency within the community.

  • Community Contribution: Users can contribute to the list by suggesting new services, verifying existing ones, and flagging any questionable entries connected to U.S. interests.

The list covers various categories, including:

  • Email Services: Mailbox.org, ProtonMail, Tutanota
  • Search Engines: Qwant, Ecosia, Startpage
  • Cloud Storage: pCloud, Tresorit, Nextcloud
  • Messaging Apps: Threema, Element, Wire
  • Social Media: Mastodon, PeerTube, Pixelfed
  • Antivirus Programs: Bitdefender, ESET, Avira
  • Video Hosting: Peertube, Dailymotion
  • Office Suites: LibreOffice, OnlyOffice
  • Web Browsers: Vivaldi, Mullvad
  • Video Conferencing: Jitsi Meet, Whereby
  • Operating Systems: Ubuntu, Debian
  • E-Commerce: Zalando, Rakuten
  • Money Transfer: Wise, Klarna
  • News Curation: Flipboard, Feedly
  • File Sharing: WeTransfer, SwissTransfer
  • Music Streaming: Deezer, Tidal
  • AI Chatbots: DeepSeek, Mistral AI
  • Maps/Navigation: OpenStreetMap, Here WeGo
  • Gaming Platforms: GOG, Lutris

Call to Action

Users are encouraged to help expand and refine the list by suggesting new services and reviewing existing ones for privacy policies.

Author: realty_geek | Score: 61

67.
Get on the Bus: Data Busses Used in Macs, 1984 to 2000 – Low End Mac
(Get on the Bus: Data Busses Used in Macs, 1984 to 2000 – Low End Mac)

The article "Get on the Bus: Data Busses Used in Macs, 1984 to 2000" by Daniel Knight discusses the evolution of data connection ports in Macintosh computers over the years. Here are the key points:

  1. Connector Changes: Since the original Macintosh in 1984, Apple has moved away from older connectors like phone jacks and serial ports, with the only original connector still in use being the analog headphone jack.

  2. Serial and Parallel Ports: Macs have always included some form of serial ports for devices like mice and printers. Notable examples include:

    • DE-9 Mouse Port: Used from 1984-1986.
    • Apple Desktop Bus (ADB): Introduced in 1987, allowed multiple devices but was eventually replaced by USB in 1998.
  3. USB Adoption: The introduction of USB 1.1 in 1998 with the iMac marked a significant upgrade, replacing older ports and offering faster speeds.

  4. Drive Ports: SCSI was the main standard for connecting hard drives from 1986 to 1998, but Apple started using Parallel ATA and, later, Serial ATA for its drives.

  5. FireWire: Introduced in 1999, FireWire offered even faster data transfer rates than USB 1.1 and was used for connecting high-speed devices.

  6. Network Ports: Early Macs used serial ports for networking, but by 1997, Apple began integrating RJ45 Ethernet ports, which remain standard today.

The article outlines the transition from older technologies to modern standards, highlighting Apple's approach to connectivity and data transfer in its Macintosh computers.

Author: TMWNN | Score: 10

68.
Is Python Code Sensitive to CPU Caching? (2024)
(Is Python Code Sensitive to CPU Caching? (2024))

Summary of "Is Python Code Sensitive to CPU Caching?"

This article investigates whether CPU caching affects the performance of Python code, particularly in terms of accessing list elements in sequential versus random order.

Key Points:

  1. CPU Caching Basics: CPU caches are faster but smaller than RAM. They pre-load data based on access patterns, which can significantly speed up performance, especially for languages like C++ or Rust that allow for more control over memory layout.

  2. Python's Limitations: Python, being a high-level language, does not offer as much control over memory layout, which raises the question of whether caching effects are relevant for Python programs.

  3. Experiment Design: The author designed an experiment to compare the performance of accessing list elements in sequential order versus random order. The hypothesis was that random access would be slower due to cache effects.

  4. Findings from Experiments:

    • For small datasets (below 200,000 elements), the performance difference between sequential and random access was small (around 23% slower for random access).
    • For larger datasets (over 420,000 elements), random access became significantly slower, with performance dips reaching up to 280% slower compared to sequential access.
  5. Large Datasets Impact: As the size of the data exceeded the CPU cache size, the performance of random access deteriorated more than that of sequential access, confirming the hypothesis that cache effects matter in Python.

  6. Indirection Overhead: The article also discusses the overhead from Python's object model (PyObject pointers) compared to using libraries like NumPy, which can manage memory more efficiently. NumPy showed significantly better performance, especially in large datasets, due to its more cache-friendly structure.

  7. Conclusion: The experiments demonstrated that while Python may not be as fast as lower-level languages, cache efficiency is an important factor that can affect performance significantly, especially for CPU-bound tasks with large lists.

Overall, the findings suggest that programmers should consider cache effects in their Python code, particularly when dealing with large datasets.

Author: leonry | Score: 76

69.
Getting the Firmware of a VTech/LeapFrog LeapStart/Magibook
(Getting the Firmware of a VTech/LeapFrog LeapStart/Magibook)

This blog post discusses the author's initial reverse engineering project involving the LeapFrog LeapStart (known as VTech MagiBook in French). The author was asked to add more book data to the device, which is a children's reading aid that recognizes special patterns on book pages when used with a pen.

Key points include:

  • The device has a micro USB port, audio jack, power button, and volume buttons.
  • The author is interested in reverse engineering as a practice before graduation and is particularly curious about the device's firmware.
  • They discovered that the firmware was downloaded to their computer during a software update.
  • The author found several files in a cache folder, including potential firmware files.
  • They identified a FAT32 filesystem image and an ARM binary, but have not yet fully understood their contents.
  • The next steps involve further investigation into the files, determining the instruction set architecture, and attempting to reverse engineer parts of the firmware, especially focusing on the dot-recognition and audio playback functionalities.

The author expresses excitement about this new learning experience in reverse engineering.

Author: LelouBil | Score: 31

70.
Loader's Number
(Loader's Number)

The text discusses a JavaScript function that determines if a video can be played on a webpage based on user country and session limits.

Key Points:

  1. Video Details: The script defines a set of video-related parameters, including how many times a user can view a video in one session.

  2. Country Lists: Two lists of countries are provided—one for general video availability and another for specific tier 3 countries where video playback is allowed.

  3. Cookie Functions: The script includes functions to read cookies, check if the user has exceeded their video view limit, and get the user's country code from cookies.

  4. Video Playback Logic: The main function checks if a video can be played based on whether it’s allowed in the user’s country, if the user has reached their view limit, and if video mapping is valid.

  5. Page Class Modification: Depending on whether a video can be played, the body of the webpage is modified to reflect the presence or absence of a featured video.

The second part of the text shifts focus to Loader's number, a concept from a C program by Ralph Loader.

Key Points on Loader's Number:

  1. Definition: Loader's number is derived from a recursive function that grows extremely large, defined as (D^5(99)).

  2. Complexity: The program implements advanced concepts in type theory and lambda calculus, leading to outputs far exceeding other large numbers in computational mathematics.

  3. Comparison with Other Numbers: Loader's number is suggested to be significantly larger than other known large numbers, though these claims lack formal proof.

  4. Code Functions: The text also provides a breakdown of various functions in the code that contribute to the computation of Loader's number, including operations for pairing and deriving terms in the calculus of constructions.

In summary, the text covers two main topics: the functionality of a JavaScript video playback script and the mathematical complexity of Loader's number from a C program.

Author: lisper | Score: 62

71.
Coolify: Open-source and self-hostable Heroku / Netlify / Vercel alternative
(Coolify: Open-source and self-hostable Heroku / Netlify / Vercel alternative)

Coolify Summary

Coolify is an open-source platform that allows you to self-host applications similar to Heroku, Netlify, or Vercel. It supports various programming languages and frameworks, enabling users to deploy static websites, APIs, and more.

Key Features:

  • Flexible Deployment: You can deploy to any server, including personal servers and cloud services like AWS and DigitalOcean.
  • Git Integration: Easily connect with GitHub, GitLab, and other platforms for deployment.
  • Free SSL Certificates: Coolify automatically manages SSL certificates for your custom domains.
  • Data Control: You retain full control over your data, with settings saved on your own servers.
  • Automatic Backups: Your data is backed up to S3-compatible solutions.
  • Webhooks & API: Integrate with CI/CD tools and automate deployments using a powerful API.
  • Real-time Terminal: Manage your servers directly from your browser.
  • Collaboration Tools: Share projects with team members and manage roles and permissions.
  • Monitoring & Notifications: Keep track of server status and receive alerts through platforms like Discord and email.

Overall, Coolify aims to simplify the deployment process while giving users complete control over their applications and data.

Author: vanschelven | Score: 365

72.
Show HN: Clawtype v2.1 – a one-hand chorded USB keyboard and mouse [video]
(Show HN: Clawtype v2.1 – a one-hand chorded USB keyboard and mouse [video])

It seems like you haven't provided any specific text to summarize. Please share the content you'd like me to summarize, and I'll be happy to help!

Author: akavel | Score: 101

73.
The DDA Algorithm, explained interactively
(The DDA Algorithm, explained interactively)

The DDA (Digital Differential Analyzer) Algorithm is used in raycasting for rendering graphics. The author has written multiple voxel raytracers using this algorithm but admits to not fully understanding how it works until recently. This blog post aims to explain the algorithm in a simplified manner for others who may have similar struggles.

Key Points:

  • DDA iterates through grid squares that a ray intersects in 2D space.
  • The ray's origin and direction are essential inputs, and the direction must be normalized.
  • The next grid space is determined based on the angle of the ray and its distance to grid lines.
  • The algorithm uses geometric principles to calculate the distance to the next horizontal and vertical grid lines, facilitating the movement through the grid.
  • As the ray moves, it checks which distance is shorter to decide the next grid square to move into.
  • Special cases are handled for when the ray is moving in negative directions or starts from a non-zero point.

The process involves calculating the distances using basic geometry and adjusting the algorithm to account for different scenarios. In practice, the DDA algorithm optimizes these calculations into simpler variables to enhance efficiency while maintaining accuracy in rendering.

Author: ibobev | Score: 100

74.
Understanding Machine Learning: From Theory to Algorithms
(Understanding Machine Learning: From Theory to Algorithms)

No summary available.

Author: Anon84 | Score: 429

75.
Ferron – A fast, memory-safe web server written in Rust
(Ferron – A fast, memory-safe web server written in Rust)

Ferron: A Fast and Safe Web Server

Key Features:

  • High Performance: Utilizes Rust’s async features for speed.
  • Memory-Safe: Built with Rust, ensuring safe memory usage.
  • Extensible: Has a modular design for easy customization.
  • Secure: Emphasizes strong security and safe concurrent operations.

Components:

  • ferron: The main web server.
  • ferron-passwd: A tool for creating user entries with hashed passwords for server configuration.

Building Ferron: To build Ferron from source:

  1. Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/ferronweb/ferron.git
  2. Navigate to the directory: cd ferron
  3. Build and run with Cargo: cargo build -r and cargo run -r --bin ferron

You can also use Ferron Forge to create a ZIP archive for installation.

Configuration and Contribution:

  • Check the documentation for configuration details.
  • Visit the contribution page for ways to help.

License: Ferron is licensed under the MIT License.

Author: lamg | Score: 130

76.
A New Proof Smooths Out the Math of Melting
(A New Proof Smooths Out the Math of Melting)

A recent breakthrough in mathematics has improved the understanding of how surfaces change shape as they melt, specifically through a process called mean curvature flow. This process smooths and shrinks surfaces but can sometimes create singularities, or points where the mathematical description fails.

In 1995, mathematician Tom Ilmanen proposed the "multiplicity-one" conjecture, suggesting that any singularities that form must be simple, allowing for continued analysis of the surface's evolution. Mathematicians Richard Bamler and Bruce Kleiner have now proven this conjecture, which was a major obstacle in understanding mean curvature flow.

Their proof shows that the surfaces will generally lead to simple singularities, like shrinking spheres or cylinders. This knowledge is expected to enhance applications in geometry and topology, and may simplify proofs of important mathematical concepts, such as the Smale conjecture. The work opens new possibilities for using mean curvature flow as a powerful mathematical tool.

Author: rbanffy | Score: 13

77.
Taught me to build them. What was your start in computing?
(Taught me to build them. What was your start in computing?)

The author reflects on their journey into software engineering as they turn 30. They recall key experiences that sparked their curiosity in technology over the past 12 years.

  1. Early Curiosity: The author started exploring computers as a child, thanks to a family computer and laptops from their grandpa. They learned about installing software and troubleshooting through trial and error.

  2. Learning Through Exploration: Discovering the command line (CMD.exe) was exciting, leading them to write simple scripts and engage with online forums. These forums became a community that helped them learn programming languages like C++ and Perl.

  3. Linux Experiences: The author gained valuable lessons from setting up Linux systems, often "borking" (breaking) their computer, which taught them more than successful installations ever could.

  4. Web Development Beginnings: Their web development journey began with creating a store on Neopets, where they learned HTML and CSS, showcasing the creativity involved in website design.

The author emphasizes that these early experiences laid the groundwork for their future in technology and encourages others to reflect on their own journeys.

Author: dshacker | Score: 40

78.
DeepSeek: Inference-Time Scaling for Generalist Reward Modeling
(DeepSeek: Inference-Time Scaling for Generalist Reward Modeling)

Reinforcement learning (RL) is being used to enhance large language models (LLMs) after they are trained. Recent findings suggest that using proper learning methods can improve how well these models perform in real-time. A main challenge in RL is creating accurate reward signals for LLMs across various topics, not just simple questions.

This study focuses on improving reward modeling (RM) for general queries and making it scalable. They use a flexible approach called pointwise generative reward modeling (GRM) and introduce a new learning method called Self-Principled Critique Tuning (SPCT). SPCT helps GRMs generate rewards more effectively through online RL, leading to models named DeepSeek-GRM.

To enhance performance, the researchers also employ parallel sampling and a meta RM to improve the reward voting process. Their experiments show that SPCT significantly boosts the quality and scalability of GRMs, performing better than existing methods in several benchmarks without introducing major biases. While DeepSeek-GRM still faces challenges in some tasks, the researchers believe these can be tackled in future work. The models will be made available for public use.

Author: tim_sw | Score: 157

79.
Microsoft's Quake 2 AI experiment sparks negative reactions
(Microsoft's Quake 2 AI experiment sparks negative reactions)

Microsoft has released a new version of Quake 2 that uses generative AI, but the response from social media users has been largely negative. The demo, which can be played online, showcases Microsoft's AI model called Muse, designed to create game visuals and actions. However, Microsoft clarified that this demo is not meant to replicate the original game experience fully and acknowledged its limitations, such as fuzzy enemy interactions and forgetting objects that go out of view.

Many users criticized the demo, expressing concerns that it undermines the work of game developers and uses excessive energy. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella envisions a future where more games will incorporate generative AI, although there are ongoing debates in the gaming industry about the implications of AI, including job security and creativity. Some industry leaders see potential benefits, while others are cautious about its impact.

Author: speckx | Score: 26

80.
OpenVertebrate Presents a Database of 13K 3D Scans of Specimens
(OpenVertebrate Presents a Database of 13K 3D Scans of Specimens)

The Florida Museum of Natural History has launched the openVertebrate project (oVert) to provide free digital 3D models of vertebrate anatomy for researchers, educators, students, and the public. From 2017 to 2023, the project scanned over 13,000 specimens, covering more than half of all amphibian, reptile, fish, and mammal genera. Using CT scans, which utilize X-rays to view bone structures, these models allow for detailed study of internal anatomy without the need for dissection.

In the future, the project plans to scan 20,000 preserved specimens from U.S. museum collections, creating high-resolution data for over 80% of vertebrate genera. The digital images and 3D files will be available for download and 3D printing. A video introduction to the collection is available for those interested.

Author: exikyut | Score: 184

81.
An interactive-speed Linux computer made of only 3 8-pin chips
(An interactive-speed Linux computer made of only 3 8-pin chips)

No summary available.

Author: dmitrygr | Score: 426

82.
Pytest for Neovim
(Pytest for Neovim)

Pytest.nvim Summary

Project Overview:
Pytest.nvim integrates testing with Neovim using pytest and supports Docker. The project is ongoing and welcomes contributions.

Getting Started:
To use Pytest.nvim, you need:

  • Neovim version 0.9.0 or newer
  • pytest installed (use pip install pytest)

Installation:
Install the plugin with your preferred manager:

  • Lazyvim:
    {
      "richardhapb/pytest.nvim",
      opts = {}
    }
    
  • Packer:
    use {
      "richardhapb/pytest.nvim",
      opt = true
    }
    

Usage:

  1. Load the plugin in your Neovim config:
    require('pytest').setup()
    
  2. Run tests in the current buffer with :Pytest.
  3. Check output with :PytestOutput.
  4. Attach tests to the buffer with :PytestAttach and detach with :PytestDetach.
  5. Enable or disable Docker support with :PytestEnableDocker and :PytestDisableDocker.

Keybindings:

  • <leader>TT: Run tests for the current file.
  • <leader>Ta: Attach pytest to the current buffer.
  • <leader>Td: Detach pytest from the buffer.

Configuration Options:
You can customize settings such as Docker support, additional arguments for pytest, and Django integration. For example:

require 'pytest'.setup {
   docker = {
      enabled = false,
      container = 'app-1',
      docker_path = '/usr/src/app',
      enable_docker_compose = false,
   },
   django = {
      enabled = false,
      django_settings_module = ""
   },
   add_args = "",  -- Additional pytest arguments
}

Features:

  • Docker integration
  • Support for Docker Compose
  • Single and multiple file testing
  • Custom arguments for pytest
  • Centralized UI for error parsing

Contributions:
Contributions are encouraged. You can fork the project, create a feature branch, commit changes, and open a pull request. Suggestions can also be submitted as issues labeled "enhancement."

Note: Don't forget to star the project!

Author: richardhapb | Score: 72

83.
Recreating Daft Punk's Something About Us
(Recreating Daft Punk's Something About Us)

Summary of "Recreating Daft Punk's Something About Us"

This text describes a personal journey of recreating Daft Punk's song "Something About Us" using Ableton Live 12. The author, Marca Tatem, shares insights into music production, focusing on the French Touch genre, which deeply influences the track.

After initially finding Ableton confusing, the author now appreciates its refined features. The project involves recreating each element of the song, from synths to guitar sounds, while exploring the nostalgic aspects of the French Touch movement that emerged in France during the late '70s and '80s.

Key points include:

  • French Touch Overview: It’s a blend of electronic music with influences from various media and cultures, characterized by unique sound textures and a nostalgic, futuristic vibe.
  • Production Challenges: Recreating the song is difficult due to its raw, imperfect sound stemming from the original recording techniques and tools used at the time.
  • Technical Breakdown: The author details the process of recreating instruments like the keys, drums, bass, and vocals, using modern software while trying to capture the original's emotional essence.
  • Nostalgia and Personal Connection: The project serves as a bridge between the author’s past in Paris and present in California, emphasizing the emotional connection to the music.

The recreation is seen as a personal interpretation rather than a perfect replication, highlighting the joy of music production and the capabilities of Ableton Live 12.

Author: MistyMouse | Score: 288

84.
Quantum mechanics might have the solution to joystick drift
(Quantum mechanics might have the solution to joystick drift)

Tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) technology could solve the common issue of joystick drift in gaming controllers, which happens when joysticks register false inputs, leading to unwanted movements. This problem has affected controllers from major brands like Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft.

Currently, many controllers use potentiometers, which wear down over time and lead to drift. Alternatives like Hall effect sensors have been explored, but TMR offers significant advantages. TMR sensors, based on quantum mechanics, do not rely on physical contact, making them more durable. They measure joystick movement by detecting changes in resistance caused by magnetic fields, allowing for higher sensitivity and better performance.

TMR sensors consume less power than Hall effect sensors and can be easily integrated into existing controllers. While TMR technology is not yet widely adopted by major manufacturers, some third-party companies are already using it in their products, and upgrade kits for popular consoles are available. As the technology matures, it is expected to become more affordable and mainstream in the gaming industry.

Author: Tomte | Score: 6

85.
Show HN: uWrap.js – A faster and more accurate text wrapping util in < 2KB
(Show HN: uWrap.js – A faster and more accurate text wrapping util in < 2KB)

Summary of μWrap

μWrap is a lightweight tool (under 2KB) that quickly and accurately wraps text, making it useful for improving user interface performance when displaying large datasets. Here are the key points:

  • Purpose: It predicts varying row heights for list and grid layouts, which helps in rendering large scrollable datasets efficiently.
  • Challenges: Traditional methods for text wrapping are slow and not ideal due to performance issues with measuring text in the DOM and limitations in the Canvas2D API.
  • Current Limitations: It works best with Latin characters and does not support Windows-style line breaks yet. Only a pre-line wrapping strategy is available at this time.

Performance: μWrap is significantly faster and more accurate than an alternative tool called canvas-hypertxt. For example, wrapping 100,000 sentences takes about 82ms in Chrome with μWrap, compared to 770ms for canvas-hypertxt.

Installation: You can install μWrap via npm (npm i uwrap) or include it directly in your project with a script tag.

API Usage: It provides functions to wrap text based on variable widths. Users can import the wrapping function and create a Canvas2D context to set font styles. Functions are available to count lines, test if text will wrap, and split lines.

In short, μWrap is a fast, efficient text wrapping utility designed for modern web applications.

Author: leeoniya | Score: 110

86.
Amid NOAA Cuts, Scientists Warn of Weather and Climate Risks
(Amid NOAA Cuts, Scientists Warn of Weather and Climate Risks)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is facing significant staffing and funding cuts under the Trump administration, which experts warn could severely affect its ability to conduct climate science and weather forecasting. NOAA, with a history dating back to 1807, plays a crucial role in monitoring the ocean and atmosphere, providing weather forecasts, and conducting climate research.

Recently, about 880 employees were laid off as part of a cost-cutting initiative. Though some workers are being temporarily reinstated due to a court ruling, many are still on administrative leave. These cuts come at a time when accurate weather forecasting is crucial, especially with the spring severe weather season approaching, raising concerns for public safety.

Experts like Keith Seitter and Brian Gonsalves have expressed that these reductions will lead to less reliable weather forecasts and may hinder emergency preparedness. There is also a push from some conservative groups to privatize NOAA's functions, which could disrupt the data and services that many private companies rely on for weather information.

Future cuts could further exacerbate climate issues and diminish the U.S.'s leadership in climate research. NOAA’s climate briefings have been suspended, raising fears that the agency's scientific objectivity may be compromised due to political influences. Overall, the changes to NOAA could have serious implications for public safety and climate awareness in the U.S.

Author: rntn | Score: 11

87.
"Hands off working COBOL code" –protest sign in NYC
("Hands off working COBOL code" –protest sign in NYC)

Summary:

Reddit is a platform where users can join various communities and engage in discussions. A recent post highlighted the skills of a software developer who created a sign with impressive lettering, sparking a conversation among users about the tools and techniques used for such work. Comments ranged from appreciating the artwork to discussing programming languages like LaTeX and COBOL. The conversation shifted to the challenges of maintaining old COBOL code, particularly in government systems, where many vital functions still rely on it. Users expressed concerns about the risks of replacing such legacy systems with modern technologies without careful planning, as it could lead to significant issues affecting many people's lives. Overall, the discussion reflected a mix of technical insights, nostalgia for older programming practices, and worries about the future of software development in critical infrastructure.

Author: davidmurphy | Score: 43

88.
TripoSG – Text to 3D Model
(TripoSG – Text to 3D Model)

TripoSG Overview

TripoSG is a powerful model designed to create high-quality 3D shapes from images. It uses advanced technology, including large-scale rectified flow transformers and a diverse dataset, to achieve impressive results in 3D generation.

Key Features:

  • High-Fidelity Generation: Produces detailed and complex 3D shapes.
  • Semantic Consistency: The generated shapes match the details and style of the input images.
  • Strong Generalization: Works well with various image styles, such as real photos, cartoons, and sketches.
  • Robust Performance: Capable of handling complex shapes effectively.

Technical Highlights:

  • Utilizes a unique transformer architecture for stable training.
  • Employs advanced techniques for better shape accuracy.
  • Trained on a large dataset of 2 million image and shape pairs to ensure high output quality.
  • Optimized for performance, even with smaller models.

Updates:

  • The latest version, TripoSG 1.5B, was released in March 2025, featuring enhanced capabilities and an interactive demo.

Installation and Usage:

  1. Clone the repository and set up a conda environment (optional).
  2. Install necessary dependencies, including PyTorch.
  3. To generate a 3D shape from an image, run a specific command, and required model weights will be downloaded automatically.

System Requirements:

  • A CUDA-enabled GPU with at least 8GB of VRAM is needed.

Community and Support:

  • An interactive demo is available online.
  • Users can report issues or suggest features via GitHub.

Acknowledgments: Thanks are given to various open-source projects that contributed to the development of TripoSG.

This model represents a significant advancement in the field of 3D shape synthesis.

Author: taikon | Score: 26

89.
Show HN: Hatchet v1 – A task orchestration platform built on Postgres
(Show HN: Hatchet v1 – A task orchestration platform built on Postgres)

Summary of Hatchet: Background Task Management Platform

Hatchet is a platform designed for running background tasks efficiently, leveraging Postgres for task management. It simplifies the process of distributing tasks among workers without the need for complex queue systems.

Key Points:

  • Purpose: Hatchet helps manage background tasks, essential for handling workloads outside of your main web application. It ensures tasks are processed reliably, especially during high traffic.

  • Features:

    • Durable Task Queues: Tasks are queued and managed without loss, even if your application crashes.
    • Task Orchestration: Allows for creating complex workflows, including chaining tasks together and managing dependencies.
    • Flow Control: Limits execution based on user activity to maintain system stability.
    • Scheduling: Supports cron jobs and one-time task scheduling.
    • Task Routing: Directs tasks to suitable workers based on various strategies.
    • Event Triggers: Tasks can be paused until specific events occur.
    • Real-time Monitoring: Includes dashboards for tracking tasks, alerting for failures, and logging for better debugging.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for applications needing reliable background processing, complex workflows, and monitoring capabilities. It can replace traditional task queues and orchestration tools with a more integrated solution.

  • Comparison with Other Tools:

    • Temporal: Hatchet is more versatile, offering various task management features, while Temporal focuses on durable execution.
    • Celery/BullMQ: Hatchet provides persistent task history and UI for monitoring, unlike traditional task queues which may lack durability.
    • DAG Platforms: Hatchet is suited for high-throughput applications, while other DAG tools are tailored for data engineering.
  • Getting Started: Hatchet is available in cloud or self-hosted versions, with comprehensive documentation and community support.

In essence, Hatchet is a robust solution for managing background tasks, offering reliability, scalability, and ease of use for developers.

Author: abelanger | Score: 228

90.
Rauthy: OpenID Connect Single Sign-On Identity and Access Management
(Rauthy: OpenID Connect Single Sign-On Identity and Access Management)

Rauthy Overview

Rauthy is a simple and efficient OpenID Connect Identity Provider designed for easy setup and secure operation. It is built in Rust, ensuring it is lightweight and fast. Rauthy is suitable for various applications, including IoT and command-line tools, with features like Single Sign-On (SSO), high availability, and strong security defaults.

Key Features:

  1. Security: Rauthy emphasizes security, offering options like passwordless login and multi-factor authentication (MFA) using FIDO2/WebAuthn. It supports Passkey-Only accounts, enhancing security without traditional passwords.

  2. Efficiency: It can run on low-resource devices, such as Raspberry Pi, and uses caching to improve performance. It can handle millions of users without significant slowdowns.

  3. Database Options: Rauthy can operate with its embedded Hiqlite database or an external Postgres database, making it flexible for different setups.

  4. Admin Interface: There is a user-friendly Admin UI for managing the application and its users, along with a dashboard for individual user account management.

  5. Customizability: Clients can customize the login page with branding options, and the application is highly configurable to meet various needs.

  6. Events and Auditing: Rauthy includes an event and alerting system to monitor activities and potential security issues.

  7. IoT Compatibility: It is designed to work with devices that have limited resources and supports the OAuth Device Authorization Grant flow.

  8. Production-Ready: Rauthy is already in use in production environments and supports standard OIDC clients.

Getting Started: Users can quickly test Rauthy using Docker, with options for local testing and secure configurations.

Contribution and Funding: The project is open for contributions and is funded by NGI Zero Core with support from the European Commission.

Author: todsacerdoti | Score: 7

91.
SELinux on NixOS
(SELinux on NixOS)

Summary of SELinux on NixOS Development

The author has been working on enabling SELinux (Security Enhanced Linux) for NixOS as part of their project to create a new Linux distribution called ExpidusOS. This OS aims to enhance mobile security and is built using a declarative approach.

Key Points:

  1. SELinux Packaging and Maintenance:

    • SELinux was already available in the Nixpkgs repository but was not actively maintained.
    • The author took on the role of maintainer and worked on creating a basic SELinux reference policy (refpolicy) for NixOS.
  2. Implementing SELinux:

    • They created a basic NixOS module to include necessary SELinux tools and configurations.
    • Initially faced challenges getting SELinux to work, including kernel parameter configurations and ensuring the correct policy version was loaded.
  3. Policy Management:

    • The author discovered that SELinux was defaulting to a higher policy version than supported by the kernel. They adjusted the build to ensure compatibility with the kernel's version.
    • After troubleshooting and making necessary adjustments, they successfully got SELinux to load the correct policy.
  4. Improvements to Nixpkgs:

    • The author cleaned up how SELinux is managed in Nixpkgs and introduced a new configuration flag for enabling SELinux support across various packages.
  5. Contributions to Upstream:

    • They submitted several pull requests to integrate their work into Nixpkgs and NixOS, aiming to enhance the overall support for SELinux.
  6. Future Goals:

    • The next steps include further upstreaming their work and developing a method for creating SELinux policies declaratively within the NixOS module system.

Overall, the author's efforts are focused on making SELinux a viable security option for NixOS and streamlining its integration into the broader Nix ecosystem.

Author: rosscomputerguy | Score: 6

92.
How the Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg Got Added to the White House Signal Chat
(How the Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg Got Added to the White House Signal Chat)

Mike Waltz, Donald Trump's national security adviser, accidentally included journalist Jeffrey Goldberg in a White House Signal group chat discussing military plans for Yemen. This error stemmed from a mix-up where Waltz saved Goldberg's phone number under the contact details of someone else. The mistake was revealed during an internal investigation that uncovered a series of missteps dating back to the 2024 campaign.

Trump considered firing Waltz but ultimately decided against it, partly because he didn’t want the media to claim victory in forcing out a cabinet official. The internal investigation concluded that the number was saved due to an iPhone feature that suggested contacts based on previous interactions. Waltz claimed he had never communicated with Goldberg before the incident.

Despite the blunder, Trump has publicly supported Waltz, and the use of Signal for secure communications has been accepted by the White House as a necessary tool, as no alternative platform was developed by previous administrations.

Author: howard941 | Score: 118

93.
Investigating MacPaint's Source Code
(Investigating MacPaint's Source Code)

Summary of Investigating MacPaint's Source Code

MacPaint, launched in 1984, was an innovative monochrome painting program for the Apple Macintosh. It introduced users to mouse controls and features like tool palettes and copy-paste functionality, targeting artistic customers with its user-friendly design.

The article examines MacPaint's source code, revealing insights into its development and algorithms. Key findings include:

  1. Buffer Management and Algorithms: The code uses efficient buffer management and algorithms, like a bucket fill method for coloring areas, which optimize performance on the 68k platform.

  2. Code Style: The source code displays both strengths and weaknesses in style and architecture, showing areas where it is adaptable for future changes.

  3. Historical Context: While MacPaint is credited with many features considered novel at the time, such as the "marching ants" selection indicator, several concepts had earlier origins in other software.

  4. Development Background: Bill Atkinson, the developer, worked using a prototype Apple Lisa and received feedback from graphic designer Susan Kare, which helped refine the application.

  5. Impact: MacPaint influenced the design of many contemporary painting applications, including the user interfaces of Photoshop and Illustrator. Despite being limited to monochrome graphics, it set standards for digital painting programs.

  6. Legacy: Although MacPaint saw limited updates after 1985, its foundational design and user interface principles continue to resonate in modern software.

In conclusion, MacPaint is recognized as a significant milestone in the evolution of digital graphic software, meriting continued study for its engineering decisions and historical impact on the field.

Author: zdw | Score: 86

94.
True Romance (1993) – A 30th Anniversary Retrospective
(True Romance (1993) – A 30th Anniversary Retrospective)

The text appears to be a collection of CSS styles and design rules for a website, outlining how various elements should be displayed on different screen sizes. Here are the key points:

  1. Responsive Design: The styles adapt based on the screen width, using media queries to adjust margins, paddings, and other properties for different device sizes (mobile, tablet, desktop).

  2. Element Alignment: There are rules for text alignment and spacing, such as centering text or adjusting margins depending on the layout.

  3. Background Images: Specific styles for background images are provided, including size, position, and hover effects to enhance user interaction.

  4. Overall Layout: The layout includes features like padding and border styles, ensuring a consistent look and feel across different sections of the website.

In summary, the text sets out CSS rules to ensure a visually appealing and functional website that adjusts well to various screen sizes and user interactions.

Author: walterbell | Score: 31

95.
Show HN: OCR pipeline for ML training (tables, diagrams, math, multilingual)
(Show HN: OCR pipeline for ML training (tables, diagrams, math, multilingual))

Summary of OCR System for Machine Learning

This OCR (Optical Character Recognition) system is designed to extract structured data from complex educational materials, like exam papers, making it suitable for machine learning (ML) training. It can handle multilingual text, mathematical formulas, tables, diagrams, and charts.

Key Features:

  • Machine Learning Optimization: Extracted elements are annotated with context, including natural language descriptions of visuals.
  • Multilingual Support: Currently supports Japanese, Korean, and English, with options for more languages.
  • Structured Output: Produces outputs in formats like JSON or Markdown, with clear descriptions of math expressions and tables.
  • High Accuracy: Achieves 90-95% accuracy on real academic datasets.
  • Complex Layout Handling: Effectively processes PDFs with dense scientific content and visual elements.

Sample Outputs: The system provides examples of processed educational materials, including descriptions and educational value related to math and biology questions.

Usage Steps:

  1. OCR Extraction: Use a script to extract raw data from PDFs.
  2. Semantic Processing: Another script converts the data into structured, human-readable formats.

Technical Implementation:

  • Uses various APIs and models for accurate extraction and processing of tables, images, and other content.
  • Maintains original layout information for context in ML training.

Community Engagement: The project is open for improvements and collaboration. Interested individuals can reach out via email for custom AI tools or projects.

License: The project is licensed under the GNU AGPL-3.0, requiring any derivative work to share its source code.

This system aims to enhance educational tools by providing high-quality training datasets for AI applications.

Author: ses425500000 | Score: 165

96.
Microsoft’s original source code
(Microsoft’s original source code)

No summary available.

Author: EvgeniyZh | Score: 594

97.
Ask HN: Who is hiring? (April 2025)
(Ask HN: Who is hiring? (April 2025))

No summary available.

Author: whoishiring | Score: 268

98.
How Airbnb measures listing lifetime value
(How Airbnb measures listing lifetime value)

The blog post by Carlos Sanchez Martinez and others discusses how Airbnb measures the lifetime value (LTV) of its listings to enhance guest experiences and support hosts. Here are the key points simplified:

  1. Purpose of LTV: Understanding which listings are most valuable to guests helps Airbnb improve offerings and guide hosts on maximizing their listing potential.

  2. LTV Framework: Airbnb's framework estimates three types of LTV:

    • Baseline LTV: The expected total bookings for a listing over the next year. This is predicted using machine learning based on listing features.
    • Incremental LTV: Accounts for bookings that wouldn't have happened without a particular listing, subtracting any bookings that merely shift from other listings (cannibalization).
    • Marketing-induced Incremental LTV: Measures additional value created by marketing efforts aimed at improving listing performance.
  3. Challenges in Measurement:

    • Accurate Baseline LTV: Requires a year to evaluate predictions, and external events (like the COVID-19 pandemic) can impact data accuracy.
    • Incrementality Issues: It's hard to determine which bookings are genuinely new versus those taken from other listings.
    • Handling Uncertainty: LTV estimates are updated regularly based on actual bookings to reflect market changes.
  4. Applications: Understanding LTV helps identify new host opportunities, areas for boosting bookings, and evaluates the effectiveness of marketing initiatives.

  5. Future Insights: Airbnb plans to extend its LTV framework to other services, like Experiences, and continues to explore improvements in measurement and insights.

The post concludes by highlighting the importance of LTV measurement for enhancing community experiences on the platform.

Author: benocodes | Score: 90

99.
Scaling Up Reinforcement Learning for Traffic Smoothing
(Scaling Up Reinforcement Learning for Traffic Smoothing)

Summary: Training Diffusion Models with Reinforcement Learning

A team deployed 100 reinforcement learning (RL)-controlled cars in busy highway traffic to reduce congestion and fuel consumption. The goal was to address "stop-and-go" waves, which are frustrating traffic slowdowns caused by small changes in driver behavior. These waves waste energy and increase CO2 emissions. The RL-controlled cars were trained in simulations to learn how to smooth traffic and improve energy efficiency safely among human drivers.

Key points include:

  1. Traffic Waves: Stop-and-go waves occur when minor fluctuations in driving lead to significant slowdowns, worsening energy efficiency and increasing accident risks.

  2. Reinforcement Learning (RL): The cars use RL to learn driving strategies that help reduce these waves. They operate using basic information like their speed, the speed of the car in front, and the gap between them.

  3. Reward Structure: Designing a reward system for the RL cars was crucial to ensure they balanced wave smoothing, energy efficiency, safety, comfort, and adherence to human driving norms.

  4. Simulation Results: In simulations, the RL cars maintained larger gaps than human drivers, leading to fuel savings of up to 20% for all vehicles, even with just a few AVs on the road.

  5. Field Test: The RL controllers were tested in a real-world environment on I-24 during peak hours. The experiment showed that the presence of these RL cars led to reduced fuel consumption and smoother traffic flow.

  6. Future Improvements: There’s potential for further enhancement by using better simulations, additional traffic data, and possibly enabling communication between AVs to improve traffic management.

The initiative aims to create more efficient and environmentally friendly highways by integrating RL technology into standard vehicles.

Author: saeedesmaili | Score: 71

100.
The End of Sierra as We Knew It, Part 1: The Acquisition
(The End of Sierra as We Knew It, Part 1: The Acquisition)

Summary of "The End of Sierra as We Knew It, Part 1: The Acquisition"

In early 1996, Sierra On-Line was thriving after the success of its best-selling game, "Phantasmagoria." However, on February 20, 1996, Sierra announced a shocking merger with CUC International, a largely unknown technology and membership services company, valued at $1.06 billion. This unexpected move raised questions among gamers about CUC’s business and reputation.

Walter Forbes, CEO of CUC, had an impressive background but was controversial. He had joined CUC after a coup against its founder and had ambitions for e-commerce that mirrored what later became Amazon's model. Despite his vision, CUC primarily operated offline shopping clubs, often using aggressive marketing tactics that raised ethical concerns.

Ken Williams, co-founder of Sierra, was initially excited about Forbes’s involvement but grew increasingly weary of running the company. Faced with pressure from shareholders and his own exhaustion, he ultimately decided to sell Sierra, despite objections from his board and his wife, Roberta. Many believed he was lured by the prospect of financial gain.

After the acquisition, Williams found himself sidelined as CUC prioritized other acquisitions, including Davidson and Associates, which owned Blizzard Entertainment. This shift led to conflicts in leadership and a decline in Sierra's creative control. Williams eventually resigned in November 1997, feeling disrespected and humiliated. His departure marked the end of an era for Sierra, which soon lost its identity within the larger conglomerate.

The article highlights the complexities of corporate acquisitions, the pressures faced by leaders, and the often unforeseen consequences of such business decisions.

Author: cybersoyuz | Score: 284
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