1.ArkFlow: High-performance Rust stream processing engine(ArkFlow: High-performance Rust stream processing engine)
ArkFlow Summary
ArkFlow is a high-performance stream processing engine built with Rust and Tokio, designed for efficient data handling. Here are the key features and information:
- Performance: Offers low latency and high efficiency due to its foundations in Rust and asynchronous programming.
- Data Sources: Can process data from various sources, including Kafka, MQTT, HTTP, files, and databases.
- Processing Features: Includes built-in capabilities for SQL queries, JSON processing, Protobuf encoding/decoding, and batch processing.
- Extensibility: Has a modular design that allows easy addition of new components.
Installation Steps:
- Clone the repository:
git clone https://github.com/arkflow-rs/arkflow.git
- Build the project:
cargo build --release
- Run tests:
cargo test
Configuration:
- Uses YAML files for configuration, which includes logging settings and stream definitions (input, processing pipeline, output, and error output).
Input Sources:
- Supports multiple input types like Kafka, MQTT, HTTP, files, and databases.
Processing Options:
- Offers various processors for JSON, SQL, and batch processing.
Output Options:
- Can send data to Kafka, MQTT, HTTP, or to the console.
Error Handling:
- Provides multiple options for outputting error data, similar to regular output.
Buffering:
- Includes memory buffers to manage high throughput and temporary message storage.
Examples:
- Kafka to Kafka data processing.
- Generating test data and processing it.
Community and Licensing:
- ArkFlow is licensed under the Apache License 2.0 and has a community on Discord for support and collaboration.
2.LibreLingo – FOSS Alternative to Duolingo(LibreLingo – FOSS Alternative to Duolingo)
The text describes an experiment to develop a language-learning platform driven by the community. It offers courses in various languages, including Spanish, German, French, Bangla, Middle Persian, Basque, and Ladino, tailored for speakers of English, Hebrew, and Spanish. Additionally, there is a course for learning Houma for English speakers.
3.Why performance optimization is hard work(Why performance optimization is hard work)
Summary:
Performance optimization in coding is challenging for several reasons:
-
Brute-Force Nature: Optimizing code often requires a lot of trial and error, as different optimizations can interact in complex ways.
-
Composability: Some optimizations work well together, while others can lead to worse performance. Mastering optimization means understanding which combinations to use.
-
Continuity: When algorithms have thresholds (like switching methods based on data size), you need to repeatedly test and benchmark to find the best settings, which can be time-consuming.
-
Incompatibility: Some optimizations can’t be used together due to hardware limitations, leading to the need for creative workarounds.
-
Compiler Limitations: Compilers may not optimize code as effectively as hoped. Developers must often check the compiled output and make adjustments to achieve better performance.
-
Documentation Issues: There's a lack of comprehensive documentation for some newer CPUs, making it harder to optimize code effectively.
In conclusion, while optimization is tough and often undervalued, even small improvements can lead to a better user experience and save time. The process requires patience and a willingness to explore various approaches.
4.Pyrefly - A faster Python type checker written in Rust(Pyrefly - A faster Python type checker written in Rust)
The project will launch in Spring 2025. For more information, you can check the GitHub demo and documentation.
5.Show HN: Flowcode – Turing-complete visual programming platform(Show HN: Flowcode – Turing-complete visual programming platform)
No summary available.
6.Qwen3: Think deeper, act faster(Qwen3: Think deeper, act faster)
Summary of Qwen3 Release Announcement
Today, we are thrilled to introduce Qwen3, a new large language model that offers impressive performance in tasks such as coding and mathematics. The standout model, Qwen3-235B-A22B, has 235 billion parameters and competes effectively against other top models. We are also releasing smaller models like Qwen3-30B-A3B and Qwen3-4B, which show strong performance with fewer activated parameters.
Qwen3 is available for use on platforms like Hugging Face and ModelScope, and it supports both research and practical applications. Key features include:
-
Hybrid Thinking Modes:
- Thinking Mode: The model processes complex questions step-by-step.
- Non-Thinking Mode: It delivers quick responses for simpler queries.
-
Multilingual Support: Qwen3 can communicate in 119 languages and dialects, making it accessible to a global audience.
-
Enhanced Capabilities: The model excels in coding and reasoning tasks, benefiting from an extensive training dataset of 36 trillion tokens, nearly double that of its predecessor.
-
Flexible Deployment: Users can easily integrate Qwen3 into different environments using various tools and frameworks.
-
Improved Agentic Functions: Qwen3 allows for dynamic tool-calling with reduced coding complexity, enhancing its practical applications.
Future developments aim to push the boundaries of AI capabilities, focusing on scaling data, improving model architectures, and advancing reinforcement learning. This release marks a significant step toward achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).
7.Show HN: A Chrome extension that will auto-reject non-essential cookies(Show HN: A Chrome extension that will auto-reject non-essential cookies)
Summary of "Reject Cookies" Chrome Extension
The "Reject Cookies" Chrome extension aims to simplify the frustrating experience of dealing with cookie consent banners on websites. While other extensions can auto-accept or manage cookies, this one specifically focuses on automatically rejecting non-essential cookies.
Here's how it works:
- The extension first tries to reject cookies on the page. If it fails, it will then close the cookie consent popup.
- It complies with GDPR regulations, meaning it seeks user consent before using cookies, except for those that are strictly necessary.
The extension is built using open-source code and focuses on specific cookie consent vendors to improve its effectiveness. Users can help improve the extension by reporting bugs or sites where it didn't work as intended through the extension's side panel. Feedback can also be sent to [email protected].
Overall, "Reject Cookies" is still a work in progress and welcomes community support to enhance its functionality.
8.Why did Windows 7 log on slower for months if you had a solid color background?(Why did Windows 7 log on slower for months if you had a solid color background?)
The text is about a continuing discussion regarding the seconds display on the taskbar. It is authored by Raymond Chen and dated April 21, 2025. The focus is likely on how time is shown on the taskbar in computer systems, but specific details are not provided in the excerpt.
9.Firefox tab groups are here(Firefox tab groups are here)
Firefox Introduces Tab Groups
On April 29, 2025, Firefox announced the launch of tab groups, a feature highly requested by the community on Mozilla Connect, where 4,500 users voiced their support. The feature allows users to organize tabs into groups, making it easier to manage multiple tabs.
Community-Driven Development
The idea for tab groups emerged just after Mozilla Connect launched in March 2022, quickly becoming the most popular request. The Firefox team actively engaged with user feedback, analyzing over 1,000 comments to understand common needs. This collaboration led to a feature that balances simplicity and flexibility, allowing users to label and organize their tabs effectively.
Future Enhancements
The team is now exploring "smart tab groups," an AI-powered feature that will suggest names and organize tabs automatically, while ensuring user privacy by keeping data on the device. This enhancement aims to further improve the user experience when managing tabs.
Encouragement for Feedback
The Firefox team encourages users to share their thoughts on tab groups, emphasizing that community feedback is vital for ongoing improvements. Users are invited to participate in discussions on Mozilla Connect.
10.A single line of code cost $8000(A single line of code cost $8000)
The screen recorder app, Screen Studio, had a bug that caused it to repeatedly download a large update file (250MB) every 5 minutes for users who had the app running in the background. This resulted in a staggering 9 million downloads and over 2 petabytes of traffic on Google Cloud over a month. The issue arose because the auto-updater code didn't stop the download process after an update was available.
Many users were unaware that the app was generating excessive network traffic, leading to significant internet usage. One user even faced the cancellation of their internet service due to this high traffic, although the situation was resolved without major problems.
Key lessons learned from this incident include:
- Always set cost alerts on cloud services.
- Write auto-updater code carefully to avoid similar issues.
- Regularly monitor cloud usage.
- Implement server signals for forced updates without user prompts.
11.Gaussian Splatting Meets ROS2(Gaussian Splatting Meets ROS2)
ROSplat Overview
ROSplat is an online visualizer built on ROS2 that uses Gaussian splatting to display complex 3D scenes. It can efficiently visualize millions of Gaussian shapes with custom messages and relies on GPU technology for sorting and rendering. It also allows data import from PLY files and works well with ROS2 tools.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Rendering: Visualizes millions of Gaussian splats instantly.
- ROS2 Integration: Facilitates online data sharing for Gaussians, images, and IMU data.
- Custom Messages: Uses special message types to describe Gaussian properties like position and opacity.
- GPU Support: Utilizes GPU for faster sorting and rendering.
Setup Requirements:
- Developed on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS with ROS2 Jazzy.
- Requires an NVIDIA graphics card for optimal performance.
Dependencies:
- Mandatory: ROS2 (tested on Jazzy).
- Optional (for GPU): Install libraries like Cupy and PyTorch for enhanced performance.
Installation:
- Install dependencies via pip or set up using Docker, ensuring proper CUDA version compatibility.
Message Definitions:
- Two custom message types are defined for handling Gaussian data.
Usage:
- After building the necessary messages, launch the visualizer from the project directory.
Contributions and Acknowledgments:
- Contributions are encouraged, with special thanks to those who provided guidance during the project.
Contact Information:
- For questions, email shady.gmira[at]gmail.com.
12.Generative AI is not replacing jobs or hurting wages at all, say economists(Generative AI is not replacing jobs or hurting wages at all, say economists)
A recent study by economists Anders Humlum and Emilie Vestergaard found that generative AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, have not significantly impacted wages or job availability in the labor market. Analyzing data from Denmark involving 25,000 workers across 11 occupations, they concluded that the adoption of these chatbots has been fast but has not translated into economic benefits.
Key points include:
- AI chatbots have not noticeably changed earnings or working hours in any occupation.
- Despite high investments in AI technology, firms are not seeing substantial returns.
- Workers are using chatbots, but the time savings they provide are minimal—averaging only 2.8% of work hours.
- While AI is creating new tasks for some workers, this is offsetting potential productivity gains.
- The study suggests that the impact of AI tools on economic outcomes has been limited, and real transformation may take time.
- Company efforts to improve AI tool usage could benefit productivity, but current results are not promising.
Overall, this research challenges the narrative that AI will quickly revolutionize the job market or enhance worker earnings.
13.Programming languages should have a tree traversal primitive(Programming languages should have a tree traversal primitive)
Tyler Glaiel suggests that programming languages should include a control flow construct specifically for tree traversal, similar to how for/foreach loops work for linear traversal. He believes this is a significant gap in current programming languages, as tree traversal is a common task.
Glaiel proposes a syntax called for_tree
, which would allow programmers to traverse tree structures easily. The syntax resembles a standard for loop but is designed to handle branches instead of linear sequences. This approach would simplify the process of tree traversal, making the code more readable and less error-prone compared to using recursive functions.
He highlights that the for_tree
construct would support additional features like breaking out of the loop or pruning branches during traversal, which are not easily achievable with traditional recursive functions. Glaiel also mentions that this construct could work on trees that aren't stored in memory, providing more flexibility than range-based for loops.
In conclusion, he argues that adding a tree traversal primitive would streamline coding for tree structures and improve clarity and efficiency in programming.
14.Try Switching to Kagi(Try Switching to Kagi)
No summary available.
15.After 53 years, a failed Soviet Venus spacecraft is crashing back to Earth(After 53 years, a failed Soviet Venus spacecraft is crashing back to Earth)
A 53-year-old Soviet spacecraft, originally intended for a mission to Venus, is set to crash back to Earth after failing to escape low Earth orbit. The spacecraft, known as Kosmos 482, will reenter the atmosphere around May 10, 2025. There is a possibility that some parts could survive the descent due to their design for extreme conditions. The exact reentry timing is uncertain because atmospheric conditions are changing due to solar activity. While the risk of debris landing in populated areas is low, it remains a concern. The spacecraft's malfunction happened shortly after its launch in 1972, leaving it in an elliptical orbit around Earth for decades.
16.One-sixth of the planet's cropland has toxic levels of one or more metals(One-sixth of the planet's cropland has toxic levels of one or more metals)
A recent study found that about 14% to 17% of the world's cropland has dangerous levels of toxic metals like arsenic, cadmium, and lead, which can harm both soil and human health. The research reviewed thousands of studies and soil samples, revealing that mining is the main cause of this contamination. The study highlights the importance of the top 30 centimeters of soil, which is crucial for plant life and biodiversity.
Researchers estimated that between 900 million and 1.4 billion people live in areas with contaminated soil. In some regions, like China and parts of India, the levels of contamination are especially high due to human activities. The study emphasizes that contamination can come from both natural processes and human actions, such as industrial pollution.
Cadmium was found to be the most widespread contaminant, affecting about 9% of soils. The findings indicate a "metal-rich corridor" across densely populated regions, revealing a long history of human impact on the environment. The research also raises concerns about the cumulative health effects of prolonged exposure to heavy metals, though it does not set specific safety thresholds for these contaminants.
17.What Is "Induced Atmospheric Vibration"?(What Is "Induced Atmospheric Vibration"?)
You can't upvote yet because you need 15 reputation points first. Upvoting shows that questions and answers are helpful. To gain reputation, try answering a related question.
Recently, a blackout occurred on the Iberian Peninsula due to a phenomenon called "induced atmospheric vibration," which was caused by extreme temperature changes leading to unusual oscillations in high voltage power lines. These oscillations disrupted the synchronization of electrical systems, causing widespread issues across the European network.
There is some debate about whether these vibrations can truly lead to the electrical frequency fluctuations observed. Some experts suggest that extreme temperature variations can impact conductor parameters, resulting in imbalances that trigger safety mechanisms and cascading failures across the grid.
Overall, the incident highlights how sensitive electrical systems are to environmental conditions and the need for accurate modeling to prevent such failures in the future.
18.The One-Person Framework in Practice(The One-Person Framework in Practice)
No summary available.
19.Heart disease deaths worldwide linked to chemical widely used in plastics(Heart disease deaths worldwide linked to chemical widely used in plastics)
No summary available.
20.How to build Intrinsic Motivation: a review of the science(How to build Intrinsic Motivation: a review of the science)
No summary available.
21.One Million Chessboards(One Million Chessboards)
The text mentions "One Million Chessboards," indicating a large online chess platform where moving a piece affects all players. It shows that there are currently 199,276 players online, but the user has not made any captures or moves yet. The message is still loading.
22.Running Clojure in WASM with GraalVM(Running Clojure in WASM with GraalVM)
Summary: Running Clojure in Wasm
GraalVM version 25 introduced support for compiling Java programs, including Clojure, to WebAssembly (Wasm). This allows Clojure programs to run in web browsers, although the current Wasm backend lacks support for threading and networking and is still in early development.
A simple "Hello, World!" Clojure program can be compiled to Wasm, resulting in a binary size of about 5.6MB, which can be reduced to approximately 2.5MB when compressed. In comparison, a similar Java program results in a 1MB Wasm binary. Adding libraries, like clojure.data.json
, increases the binary size.
GraalVM's build report shows that a large part of the compiled output consists of heap snapshots, strings, and hash maps. Notably, 60% of methods come from Java libraries, while only 17% come from Clojure.
Performance:
- The unoptimized Wasm binary runs slower than Clojure compiled as a native image, which is 2-3 times faster.
- Running Clojure code on OpenJDK is significantly faster (5-12 times) compared to the Wasm version. ClojureScript also outperforms Wasm by 5 times.
Interop with JavaScript: The article describes how to create a button in the DOM and utilize JavaScript functions from Clojure running in Wasm. GraalVM provides tools for this interoperation, allowing developers to call JavaScript methods directly from Clojure.
For a complete Clojure setup for GraalVM and Wasm, visit the roman01la/graal-clojure-wasm
repository.
23.Ask HN: What are you working on? (April 2025)(Ask HN: What are you working on? (April 2025))
No summary available.
24.Widespread power outage in Spain and Portugal(Widespread power outage in Spain and Portugal)
A recent power outage in Spain and Portugal left millions without electricity, causing significant disruptions. Here are some key stories shared by affected individuals:
- Hua Fah and her partner were stranded for over 11 hours when their train to Barcelona stopped far from the city.
- Jonny Stokes described the scene in Seville as "post-apocalyptic" with non-functioning traffic lights and a heavy police presence.
- Emily, a teacher in Lisbon, had to teach in the dark, and many parents picked up their kids from school early.
- Violinist Isaac Bifet canceled rehearsals in Madrid and spent the evening enjoying drinks by candlelight.
- Will David had his haircut interrupted at a barbershop when the power went out, but the barber managed to finish with scissors.
- Jessica Lopez and Olvyn Lanza from Iowa got locked out of their Airbnb due to an electric door failure and spent four hours searching for a place to stay in Madrid.
25.Manuscript of Ismail al-Jazarī's Ingenious Mechanical Devices (ca. 17th century)(Manuscript of Ismail al-Jazarī's Ingenious Mechanical Devices (ca. 17th century))
The text discusses Ismail al-Jazarī, a thirteenth-century engineer known for his innovative machines. His important work, "The Book of Knowledge of Ingenious Mechanical Devices," includes detailed descriptions of various devices, such as water-raising machines, clocks, and automata. Al-Jazarī served the court of the Artuqids and created machines that entertained and assisted, including a life-like butler and devices for serving wine at royal gatherings.
His inventions are categorized into six groups, highlighting the luxurious lifestyle of his patrons. The illustrations from a particular manuscript, preserved in Berlin, focus on the technical aspects of the machines rather than their aesthetic appeal, showing a shift in focus from humans to machines. Al-Jazarī is recognized as a key figure in engineering, influencing future inventors while drawing on earlier scientific traditions.
26.Show HN: A pure WebGL image editor with filters, crop and perspective correction(Show HN: A pure WebGL image editor with filters, crop and perspective correction)
Mini Image Editor Summary
- What it is: An online photo editor that uses WebGL2 technology.
- Link: You can access it at mini2-photo-editor.netlify.app.
- Technology: It is powered by mini-js and mini-gl, which are available on GitHub.
27.Implement Flash Attention Back End in SGLang – Basics and KV Cache(Implement Flash Attention Back End in SGLang – Basics and KV Cache)
Summary: Implementing Flash Attention Backend in SGLang
The Flash Attention Backend has been successfully integrated into SGLang, becoming the default attention method as of version 0.4.6. This series will detail our implementation process, offering insights for those interested in building their own attention backends for large language model (LLM) serving engines.
Series Overview:
- Basics, KV Cache, and CUDA Graph Support (this post)
- Speculative Decoding Support (upcoming)
- MLA, Llama 4, Sliding Window, and Multimodal Support (upcoming)
Key Features of Flash Attention:
- Performance: Flash Attention (FA3) shows superior throughput compared to other backends, especially with larger input/output sizes.
- Architecture: SGLang comprises three main components: Server (handles requests), Scheduler (creates batches), and Model (executes inference). The self-attention process is often a bottleneck, necessitating optimized attention backends.
Understanding Flash Attention:
- Flash Attention is an efficient attention algorithm that minimizes memory read/write operations on GPUs. Grasping its core logic allows for more intelligent usage.
KV Cache Management:
- The KV cache is critical for performance, allowing the backend to quickly access previously computed attention values. It manages memory efficiently for multiple requests and tokens.
Implementation Highlights:
- The backend is built around methods like
forward_extend()
andforward_decode()
, which handle the attention processing during model inference. - The integration of CUDA Graphs helps streamline GPU operations, significantly improving execution speed by minimizing CPU overhead.
Future Work:
- Upcoming articles will cover advanced topics like Speculative Decoding and new model capabilities.
Conclusion: The process of implementing the Flash Attention backend demonstrated how to enhance performance in LLM serving. The community is encouraged to engage with open-source contributions, regardless of expertise.
This summary encapsulates the main points about the implementation of Flash Attention in SGLang, focusing on its architecture, functionality, and future directions.
28.Greek Particles (1990)(Greek Particles (1990))
No summary available.
29.Show HN: Sim Studio – Open-Source Agent Workflow GUI(Show HN: Sim Studio – Open-Source Agent Workflow GUI)
Sim Studio Overview
Sim Studio is an easy-to-use platform designed for creating, testing, and improving workflows.
Hosting Options
-
Cloud-hosted Version
-
Self-hosting: You can self-host Sim Studio in three ways:
-
Option 1: Using Docker (Recommended)
- Clone the repository:
git clone https://github.com/YOUR_USERNAME/sim.git cd sim
- Set up the environment:
cp sim/.env.example sim/.env
- Start Sim Studio:
docker compose up -d --build
- Access the app at http://localhost:3000/w/.
Useful Docker Commands:
- View logs:
docker compose logs -f simstudio
- Access PostgreSQL:
docker compose exec db psql -U postgres -d simstudio
- Stop:
docker compose down
- Restart after changes:
docker compose up -d --build
- Clone the repository:
-
Working with Local Models:
- Pull models:
./sim/scripts/ollama_docker.sh pull <model_name>
- Start with local models:
- For GPU:
docker compose up --profile local-gpu -d --build
- For CPU:
docker compose up --profile local-cpu -d --build
- For GPU:
- Pull models:
-
Connecting to Existing Ollama Instance:
- Use host networking:
docker compose up --profile local-cpu -d --build --network=host
- Or modify
docker-compose.yml
for host mapping.
- Use host networking:
-
Option 2: Dev Containers:
- Use VS Code with the Remote - Containers extension to set up the environment automatically.
-
Option 3: Manual Setup:
- Clone and install dependencies:
git clone https://github.com/YOUR_USERNAME/sim.git cd sim/sim npm install
- Set up the environment and database, then start the server with
npm run dev
.
- Clone and install dependencies:
-
Tech Stack:
- Framework: Next.js
- Database: PostgreSQL
- Authentication: Better Auth
- UI: Tailwind CSS
- State Management: Zustand
- Flow Editor: ReactFlow
Contributing and License: Contributions are welcome! The project is licensed under the Apache License 2.0.
Made with ❤️ by the Sim Studio Team.
30.Japan unveils first solar super-panel(Japan unveils first solar super-panel)
Summary: Japan's Solar Super-Panel Revolution
Japan has introduced a groundbreaking solar technology called perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which are lightweight, flexible, and highly efficient. This innovation aims to transform renewable energy production in urban areas where space is limited. By fiscal 2040, Japan plans to generate 20 gigawatts of electricity from PSCs, equivalent to the output of 20 nuclear reactors, as part of its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Historically, Japan led the world in solar panel manufacturing but lost market share to cheaper Chinese products. However, with the development of PSC technology, Japan aims to regain its competitive edge. The government is backing companies like Sekisui Chemical Co. to create advanced PSC modules for broader market use by the 2030s.
PSCs can be integrated into buildings and urban infrastructure, making them suitable for densely populated areas. Despite challenges like durability and high initial costs, improvements are expected to make them more affordable over time.
Since the 2011 nuclear disaster, Japan's solar energy output has rapidly increased from 1.9% to nearly 10% of total energy production. The government's target is to reach 36%-38% renewable energy consumption by 2030, with PSCs playing a crucial role in achieving this goal. Japan's push for sustainable energy positions it as a leader in the global renewable energy landscape.
31.Migrating away from Rust(Migrating away from Rust)
In December 2023, Brandon Reinhart began developing a game called Architect of Ruin using the Bevy engine, motivated by his love for the Rust programming language and Bevy's community. However, by January 2025, he switched the game to C# and Unity after facing several challenges with Bevy.
Key issues included:
- Collaboration Difficulties: Working with his brother, who was new to coding, proved challenging due to Rust's steep learning curve.
- High-Level Abstraction Needs: As the project grew, creating gameplay mechanics became cumbersome due to Rust's low-level focus, which hindered rapid prototyping.
- Frequent Updates: Bevy's rapid development led to frequent changes and bugs, complicating the migration process and causing frustration.
- Learning Curve: The fast pace of Bevy's evolution made it hard to find stable resources and support compared to Unity.
- Modding Limitations: Reinhart's goal for a moddable game faced obstacles due to Rust and Bevy’s limitations.
After evaluating options, including Unreal and continuing with Bevy, Reinhart decided to test Unity. The initial tests were successful, showing that development could be faster and easier. This led to a full port to Unity, which improved the team's workflow and productivity.
Three months into the switch, the development process has become more efficient, allowing for faster iterations and better integration of tools. Despite some unresolved issues, like localization, the decision to move away from Rust and Bevy has strengthened the project's direction. Reinhart still appreciates Rust and Bevy but recognized that Unity better suited the project's needs for collaboration and rapid development.
32.Show HN: I built a hardware processor that runs Python(Show HN: I built a hardware processor that runs Python)
Summary of PyXL:
-
What is PyXL?
- PyXL is a custom hardware processor that runs Python code directly in hardware without using an interpreter or operating system.
-
Performance:
- PyXL achieves a GPIO round-trip time of 480 nanoseconds, significantly faster than MicroPython on a PyBoard, which takes around 15,000 nanoseconds.
- This makes PyXL approximately 30 times faster than MicroPython and 50 times faster when accounting for clock speed differences.
-
How it Works:
- Python code is compiled to bytecode, then translated to a custom assembly, and executed on a pipelined processor.
- GPIO pins are directly wired to the processor for immediate hardware execution.
-
Key Features:
- Deterministic timing and real-time behavior are ensured, making it suitable for applications requiring precise control.
- The system runs on a Zynq-7000 FPGA, executing Python code at a clock speed of 100 MHz.
-
Use Cases:
- PyXL is ideal for real-time control systems, machine learning inference, robotics, and industrial applications where timing and reliability are crucial.
-
Conclusion:
- PyXL offers a new level of performance for Python in embedded systems, allowing developers to write efficient, performance-critical code in Python without typical software overhead.
For more information, visit runpyxl.com.
33.Show HN: Heart Rate Zones Plus – The first iOS app I developed(Show HN: Heart Rate Zones Plus – The first iOS app I developed)
Summary of Heart Rate Zones Plus App
Heart Rate Zones Plus is a free fitness app designed for iPhone users to help track workouts based on heart rate zones. It offers features that allow users to:
-
Monitor Heart Rate Zones: Track time spent in different heart rate zones daily, weekly, and monthly to understand your fitness performance.
-
Workout Attribution: See which workouts contributed to your time in specific heart rate zones, helping you analyze the effectiveness of your activities.
-
Customizable Heart Rate Calculations: Choose various methods to calculate your maximum heart rate, including age-based formulas, and personalize your settings with your own max and resting heart rates.
-
Set Personal Goals: Create specific time goals for each heart rate zone and track your progress visually with animated bars.
-
Detailed Workout Breakdown: Get insights into your recent workouts, including time distribution across zones and sport type.
-
User-Friendly Design: The app supports both dark and light modes and integrates with system settings for a comfortable user experience.
Privacy: The app does not collect user data and uses Apple HealthKit only with user permission.
Target Users: It’s ideal for runners, cyclists, swimmers, and anyone interested in heart rate training, as well as those recovering from injuries.
Compatibility: Requires iOS 18.2 or later for iPhone and macOS 15.2 or later for Mac with Apple M1 chip.
Overall, Heart Rate Zones Plus aims to enhance fitness tracking by focusing on cardiovascular training and user-defined goals.
34.Introducing the Meta AI App: A New Way to Access Your AI Assistant(Introducing the Meta AI App: A New Way to Access Your AI Assistant)
Meta is launching a new AI app called Meta AI, powered by Llama 4, aimed at providing a more personal AI experience. Users can interact with this AI through voice conversations in a standalone app, enhancing their daily usage on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger.
Key Features:
- Personalization: Meta AI learns about users to provide more relevant and helpful responses. It can remember personal details and offer tailored recommendations.
- Voice Interaction: The app allows for natural voice conversations, utilizing advanced technology to create a smoother experience. Users can multitask while interacting with the AI.
- Integration: It connects with other Meta features, including image generation and editing, accessible through voice or text.
- Discover Feed: Users can explore how others use AI, share prompts, and create custom interactions without automatic sharing unless chosen.
- Accessibility: Meta AI is available across various devices, including Ray-Ban Meta glasses, with a seamless transition between devices.
The web version of Meta AI is also upgraded, featuring voice interactions and improved document editing capabilities. Users have control over their experience and can easily toggle features to suit their preferences.
35.My takeaways from DjangoCon EU 2025(My takeaways from DjangoCon EU 2025)
Summary of DjangoCon EU 2025 Takeaways
DjangoCon EU 2025 in Dublin highlighted several key insights and practices for the Django community. Here are the main points:
-
Database Management:
- Use
select_for_update
to lock database rows during updates. - Switch to BigInt (64-bit) or UUID for primary keys to handle large data.
- Partition tables using
PostgresPartitionedModel
for better performance. - Optimize foreign key indexes to reduce size significantly.
- Conduct performance tests with Pytest to monitor database operations.
- Use
-
Tools & Libraries:
- Use tools like
strace
to analyze system calls anddjango-neopolitan
for easy CRUD views. - Consider
django-csp
for content security anddjango-otp-webauthn
for biometric logins.
- Use tools like
-
Best Practices:
- Review SQL migrations in PRs using GitHub Actions.
- Count database queries in tests to avoid excessive queries.
- Clean up old feature flags to prevent unexpected issues.
-
Community Insights:
- Django’s core development is now discussed on GitHub, improving collaboration.
- A Django template backend in Rust is being developed.
- Many companies are successfully using Django for various applications, like energy management and healthcare.
-
Vibes and Observations:
- Attendees noted a friendly atmosphere and differences in lifestyle quality between Europe and the US.
- Dublin's cost of living and public services were mentioned positively.
The conference featured many excellent talks, including topics on Django performance, database operations, and modern development patterns with Django and HTMX.
36.Amazon to display tariff costs for consumers(Amazon to display tariff costs for consumers)
Amazon plans to show customers how much President Trump's tariffs are affecting product prices. They will display the tariff cost next to the total price of each item, so shoppers can see the impact of the trade war directly.
37.Why Momentum Works (2017)(Why Momentum Works (2017))
Distill Overview
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About: Distill is a platform that focuses on making complex concepts in machine learning and AI easy to understand. It aims to simplify and clarify information for a wider audience.
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Prize: Distill offers a prize to encourage the submission of high-quality, understandable content in the field of AI and machine learning.
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Submit: Contributors are invited to submit their work to Distill, promoting clear communication and education in the field.
38.Activeloop (YC S18) is hiring a VP of Engineering in Mountain View (on-site)(Activeloop (YC S18) is hiring a VP of Engineering in Mountain View (on-site))
No summary available.
39.The 12-bit rainbow palette(The 12-bit rainbow palette)
The 12-bit rainbow palette was created for National Grid: Live and features twelve carefully selected colors. Each color can be represented by a short four-character hexadecimal code, such as #817 or #a35.
Colors on computers are defined using red, green, and blue (RGB), but our eyes perceive these colors differently in terms of brightness. This can lead to uneven brightness changes in a typical RGB rainbow palette.
To create a more visually appealing palette, the LCH color space is used instead. It organizes colors based on brightness, saturation, and hue, leading to a more uniform change in perception.
The new palette allows for controlled brightness variations, with yellow being the brightest color, followed by a selected red and blue. While the 12-bit color limit requires some slight adjustments, the final palette features evenly spaced hues and smooth brightness transitions.
40.Show HN: Web-eval-agent – Let the coding agent debug itself(Show HN: Web-eval-agent – Let the coding agent debug itself)
Operative.sh Web-Eval-Agent MCP Server Summary
The Operative.sh MCP Server is a tool designed to help developers debug web applications more efficiently. It uses a browser-powered agent that can run and debug code directly within your code editor, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Key Features:
- Fast Navigation: Navigate your web app quickly with the BrowserUse feature.
- Traffic Capture: Collects and filters network traffic for analysis.
- Error Logging: Captures console errors and logs.
- Autonomous Debugging: The agent tests the code automatically to ensure it works correctly.
Quick Start (macOS/Linux):
- Install Homebrew, npm, and jq.
- Obtain an API key from operative.sh.
- Run the installer script:
curl -LSf https://operative.sh/install.sh -o install.sh && bash install.sh && rm install.sh
- Restart your IDE and start using the web eval agent.
Manual Windows Installation:
- Get your API key.
- Install the necessary tools using the provided commands.
- Use the web eval agent in your environment.
Example Output:
The tool can generate detailed reports after testing flows in your web app, such as verifying the deletion of API keys, including steps taken, logs, network requests, and a summary of the testing process.
For any issues, users can report them on the project's repository. The tool is designed to streamline debugging, saving developers time and effort.
41.Packed Data Support in Haskell(Packed Data Support in Haskell)
The blog post discusses a new Haskell library that supports "packed data," which allows data to be used in its binary format without needing to deserialize it first. This can enhance performance by reducing the time and size involved in data transfer. Traditionally, data must be serialized into formats like JSON or XML for storage or network transfer, which can be inefficient.
Key points include:
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Packed Data Format: This binary format removes the need for serialization, enabling faster access and traversal of data structures, particularly trees, since it avoids pointer jumps and utilizes CPU cache more effectively.
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Haskell Library: The new library, created using Template Haskell, allows users to pack, unpack, and traverse data directly in its packed form, leveraging Haskell's type system without needing any compiler changes.
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Functionality:
- Packing and Unpacking: The library generates code to serialize and deserialize data structures.
- Traversal: It provides a way to navigate through packed data using a generated case function that matches data constructors.
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Performance Benchmarks: Initial benchmarks show mixed results:
- Some operations, like summing tree values, are faster (20% improvement) compared to unpacked Haskell.
- However, other operations, like retrieving the right-most value, are slower (5 times compared to native Haskell).
- The performance benefits depend on the specific operation and machine architecture.
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Future Work: The author suggests further improvements could involve generating C code to optimize performance and exploring similar implementations in other strongly-typed languages.
This library represents a significant step in making packed data more accessible in Haskell, with potential applications in web services and other data-intensive tasks.
42.Requirements change until they don't(Requirements change until they don't)
The text discusses the challenges of managing software requirements, particularly how they can change frequently. It emphasizes that while formal methods (FM) can help in mathematically modeling systems, they may not be practical when requirements are constantly shifting.
Key points include:
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Understanding Needs: The main challenge in software development is ensuring that you are "building the right thing" for the client, rather than just "building the thing right."
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Testing vs. Formal Methods: Writing unit tests is easier and less costly than using formal methods, which require more extensive effort for higher accuracy. However, when requirements change frequently, investing in formal methods may not be justified.
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Long-term Support: Once a solution is delivered, it must continue to work as the client’s needs evolve. This requires ongoing maintenance and adjustments to ensure the software remains effective.
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Phase Changes: The concept of "phase changes" in physics is used as a metaphor for software development. Just as water changes from liquid to steam at a certain temperature, software systems may need to undergo significant changes (or "phase transitions") when they reach certain thresholds of complexity or load.
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Risks of Complexity: Introducing new architectures or features can complicate the system, potentially leading to new bugs. For example, changing from synchronous to asynchronous processing may violate existing customer requirements.
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Importance of Formal Methods: When requirements stabilize, formal methods can help ensure that new updates do not disrupt existing functionalities. They can specify system properties and automatically check that changes meet these requirements.
In summary, while continuous changes in software requirements present challenges, maintaining customer satisfaction and ensuring long-term functionality is crucial, and formal methods can play a significant role once requirements stabilize.
43.Amazon Wants to Be a Satellite-Internet Powerhouse. It Has a Long Way to Go(Amazon Wants to Be a Satellite-Internet Powerhouse. It Has a Long Way to Go)
No summary available.
44.Reports of the death of California High-Speed Rail have been greatly exaggerated(Reports of the death of California High-Speed Rail have been greatly exaggerated)
The California High-Speed Rail (CAHSR) project, intended to connect Los Angeles and San Francisco, faces criticism and challenges, but it still has potential for success. Critics from both political sides express frustration over the project's delays and funding issues, often overlooking the real reasons behind these challenges.
Initially approved by voters in 2008, the project was supposed to receive substantial federal funding, which has not materialized as expected. Delays in starting construction were caused by legal battles and funding issues. Despite these setbacks, CAHSR has made some progress, with visible construction in the Central Valley, although funding remains inconsistent.
Governor Gavin Newsom's election in 2018 introduced further complications, such as funding cuts and a focus on a more limited segment of the project. Critics argue that the rail alignment through the Central Valley is poorly chosen, suggesting a more direct route along Interstate 5. However, this alternative would bypass major population centers and might not have gained public support.
The project's costs have risen, but much of this is due to the geological challenges of building tunnels to connect to major cities. Critics also overlook that successful infrastructure projects often benefit from established funding systems and political support, which CAHSR has struggled to secure.
Despite ongoing challenges, there is still public support for the project, and the potential benefits include improved connections and economic opportunities. With adequate political will and funding, California could still complete this ambitious transportation project.
45.Beating the Crowd(Beating the Crowd)
Summary of "Beating the Crowd"
In an auction for an unknown box, you bid $9,000 based on your estimate that it's worth $10,000. Winning the auction feels good, but it raises doubts since everyone else bid lower. This situation highlights that winning an auction can mean you’re likely wrong, as the crowd’s collective judgment is often more accurate.
The text references a famous experiment where people guessed the weight of an ox, and their average guess was very close to the actual weight. This suggests that crowds can make good estimates when no additional information is available.
There are situations where going against the crowd can be justified:
- Informational Edge: If you know more about the situation (like being familiar with the Disneyland ride), you might decide differently than the crowd.
- Different Willingness: Personal preferences can lead individuals to make choices that differ from the crowd, even if everyone has the same information (like dining on Christmas).
- Differing Situations: In relationships, unique personal experiences can make a partnership worthwhile, even if others might seek different options.
To make better decisions, consider both your analysis and the actions of others. It’s important not to rely solely on your judgment or the crowd's behavior; instead, evaluate both perspectives to avoid regret.
46.Is outbound going to die?(Is outbound going to die?)
The text discusses the future of outbound sales and marketing in the context of AI advancements. Key points include:
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Rise of AI Tools: Many sales and marketing products are now using AI to create highly personalized content, allowing anyone to run effective marketing campaigns.
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Short-Term Success: While these AI tools will lead to successful marketing initially, there may be a downside as consumers become overwhelmed by constant, personalized outreach.
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Fatigue and Trust Issues: Over time, people may ignore the personalized messages, harming trust and conversion rates. The market will be flooded with similar content from various companies.
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Importance of Relationships: As competition increases, companies will need to rely more on personal relationships and access to decision-makers since traditional outbound methods may decline in effectiveness.
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Emergence of New Strategies: Companies will focus on building their brand presence, especially on social media, creating engaging communities, and developing organic growth strategies through satisfied customers.
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Community Focus: Building trusted user communities and platforms where users can interact will become vital for creating demand and maintaining a competitive edge.
In summary, the future of sales will be shaped by personal relationships, community engagement, and unique branding strategies, as reliance on AI-driven outbound marketing alone may not be sustainable.
47.Legal art forgery, for the sake of movies (2014)(Legal art forgery, for the sake of movies (2014))
The article explores the complicated process of creating and using art for movies, focusing on legal art forgery and the challenges filmmakers face.
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Creating Fake Art: Filmmakers often need to replicate famous paintings for their movies. For example, scenic artist Michael Stockton spent weeks creating a fake Picasso painting for the film "Basquiat," which had to be destroyed after filming as per contract with the Picasso estate.
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Legal Challenges: Since the mid-90s, rights to use artwork in films have become stricter due to copyright lawsuits. This has led studios to be more cautious and thorough in obtaining permissions.
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Behind the Scenes:
- In "Basquiat," the team created faux artwork with legal oversight, as they didn't have permission from Basquiat's estate.
- For "Girl with a Pearl Earring," the production team worked hard to train actors in ancient painting techniques and created multiple reproductions to capture the essence of Vermeer’s art.
- In "Pollock," the team created over 125 pieces inspired by Jackson Pollock's style, focusing on the process rather than exact replicas.
- "The Monuments Men" required thousands of reproductions of artwork, heavily relying on digital technology to recreate pieces accurately.
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Art Disposal: After filming, any created artworks are often destroyed or stored, as they cannot be reused without permission.
Overall, the creation and use of art in films is a meticulous process involving artistic skill, legal navigation, and sometimes, the destruction of valuable replicas.
48.Intel admits what we all knew: no one is buying AI PCs(Intel admits what we all knew: no one is buying AI PCs)
Intel has acknowledged that its new AI PCs, which use advanced Meteor Lake and Lunar Lake processors, are not selling well. Instead, customers are preferring older Raptor Lake systems, which are more affordable. This shift is partly due to production shortages of the new AI processors, making them more expensive. Intel's recent financial report indicates that there is a stronger demand for its older technology rather than the newer AI-enabled options.
49.Vision Transformers Need Registers(Vision Transformers Need Registers)
Transformers are becoming important for learning visual representations. This paper discusses problems found in the feature maps of Vision Transformer (ViT) networks, both supervised and self-supervised. The issues involve high-norm tokens appearing in unimportant background areas during image analysis. The authors suggest a simple solution: adding extra tokens to the input sequence of the Vision Transformer. This approach resolves the issue for both types of models, improves performance on self-supervised visual tasks, enhances object discovery with larger models, and results in smoother feature and attention maps for further visual processing.
50.Knowledge-based society, my ass(Knowledge-based society, my ass)
No summary available.
51.Tiny-LLM – a course of serving LLM on Apple Silicon for systems engineers(Tiny-LLM – a course of serving LLM on Apple Silicon for systems engineers)
Summary of Tiny-LLM - LLM Serving in a Week
Tiny-LLM is a work-in-progress tutorial for system engineers on how to serve large language models (LLMs) using MLX. The project focuses on building the serving infrastructure from scratch using low-level MLX APIs, which allows for better optimization. The tutorial emphasizes the Qwen2 model, which is used as a primary example.
Key Features:
- Development Environment: It's easier to set up on macOS than with NVIDIA GPUs.
- Learning Resource: A book is available at tiny-llm.
- Community Support: Join the Discord server for collaboration.
Roadmap Overview: The tutorial is organized into chapters, each covering different topics related to LLM serving. Some topics are complete with code, tests, and documentation, while others are still under development.
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Completed Topics:
- Attention
- RoPE
- Responses Generation
-
In Progress Topics:
- Grouped Query Attention
- RMSNorm and MLP
- Transformer Block
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Future Topics:
- Paged Attention
- AI Agent
- Streaming API Server
Additional areas not yet covered include quantized and compressed key-value caches.
52.Hunting for dark nights and wishing on stars(Hunting for dark nights and wishing on stars)
High Country News offers weekly email newsletters to keep readers informed about news and investigations in the West.
The text reflects on a personal experience in nature, focusing on the beauty of the night sky and the contrast between natural and artificial light. The author describes a biking trip, where they enjoy the peacefulness of the outdoors, share a campfire, and observe stars and constellations. They highlight the changes in the night sky due to increasing light pollution from nearby cities like Las Vegas.
The author emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature and respecting the night sky, suggesting that even a simple glance at the stars can deepen our understanding of the universe. The piece also touches on themes of adventure, nostalgia, and the impact of modern life on our natural surroundings.
Overall, it serves as a reminder of the beauty of the night sky and the need to preserve our ability to see it amidst growing urbanization.
53.The side hustle from hell(The side hustle from hell)
In this article, Jacob Bartlett shares his experience of being exploited during his first startup, Fixr. He describes the journey from being an ambitious consultant to becoming a cofounder and CTO of a tech startup aimed at connecting users with local mechanics for car repairs.
Key points of his experience include:
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Initial Excitement: Jacob was eager to join Fixr after being approached by its CFO, Jimmy. The startup had been in development for three years but faced many challenges, particularly with its mobile app.
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Struggles with Development: Jacob quickly discovered that the app was not ready for launch, and he faced issues with a development agency. He took the initiative to rewrite the app and was made cofounder due to his significant contributions.
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Team Dynamics: The team had conflicts, especially between two cofounders, which affected progress. Jacob and his colleague, Gus, pushed for a launch despite the team's focus on adding more features.
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Launch and Failure: After launching, Fixr received no user engagement. Jacob realized the team lacked a solid marketing strategy and the necessary mechanics to support the platform.
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Realization and Exit: After months of effort with little reward, Jacob decided to leave Fixr, ultimately leading to its dissolution. He reflects on the valuable lessons learned through this challenging experience.
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Advice for Future Entrepreneurs: He shares red flags to watch for in startups, such as a lack of product launch, equity tied to personal investments, internal conflicts, and poor communication.
Despite the difficulties, Jacob values the experience as it led him to a better opportunity with a new startup, Carbn. He encourages others to be cautious but also to consider the learning potential in early-stage ventures.
54.Cybercriminals Take Responsibility for Spain and Portugal Power Outages(Cybercriminals Take Responsibility for Spain and Portugal Power Outages)
A significant power outage has hit Spain and Portugal, with some areas in southern France also affected. The blackout started around midday and disrupted public transport and emergency services. While the exact cause is unclear, there are concerns it may be linked to a cyberattack.
Two hacker groups, Dark Storm Team and NoName057, claimed responsibility for the outages on social media, sharing links that suggest disruptions to several Portuguese government ministries. This incident raises fears of a potential escalation in cyber warfare, especially since NoName057 is known for targeting NATO-affiliated countries.
European officials are investigating the situation, but no formal response has been issued regarding the claims of a cyberattack. The blackout, if confirmed as being caused by a cyber event, would be one of the most significant digital attacks on civilian infrastructure in Europe in recent years.
55.An Ode to the Thigh (2024)(An Ode to the Thigh (2024))
The author shares their experience of dissecting the thigh in medical school, describing it as their favorite dissection due to its beautiful and organized structure. The fascia lata, a cohesive layer, covers the muscles and plays a crucial role in aiding blood circulation by directing muscle contractions inward, which helps blood return to the heart against gravity.
As they peel back the fascia, they reveal well-defined muscles, including the iliacus, psoas major, quadriceps, adductors, and sartorius. The author reflects on the intricate design of the thigh, noting that its form and function showcase nature's efficiency in movement, which is essential for survival. They conclude that the thigh's structure exemplifies the importance of motion in evolution, highlighting that movement is more vital than cognition for survival.
56.Boxie – an always offline audio player for my 3 year old(Boxie – an always offline audio player for my 3 year old)
Summary of Boxie: An Offline Audio Player for Kids
Overview: The project aims to create a simple, offline audio player for the author’s 3-year-old son, inspired by the Game Boy design. The device plays audiobooks from physical cartridges instead of requiring internet connectivity.
Development Journey:
- The author learned various electronics skills, including soldering, using microcontrollers (ESP32), reading datasheets, designing PCBs with software like KiCad, and creating 3D models for printing.
- The project has been in use since January 2025 and serves as a daily audio player for the child.
Key Features of Boxie:
- Design: Resembles a Game Boy, portable, with a battery-powered system.
- Cartridge System: Uses micro SD cards for audio storage, with visible labels for easy identification.
- User-Friendly: Simple knob for volume control and buttons for navigation, automatically powers on/off with cartridge insertion/removal.
- Durability: Built to withstand drops and made with safe battery types (NiMH).
Technical Components:
- Microcontroller: ESP32-S3 used for its versatility and cost-effectiveness.
- Audio Playback: Utilizes a MAX98357A DAC for sound amplification.
- Power Management: Custom-designed PCB for charging and power protection, ensuring device usage without battery drain.
- 3D Printed Enclosure: Designed to house components neatly and securely.
Learning and Resources:
- The development process involved significant research and learning from existing open-source designs.
- The author encourages others to explore electronics beyond basic Arduino projects for more advanced capabilities.
Future Improvements: Plans to add a headphone jack and a USB cartridge reader for easier file management.
Conclusion: The Boxie project showcases a successful blend of creativity, electronics, and practical parenting, resulting in a durable and engaging audio player for young children.
57.Recognizing Patterns in Memory (2022)(Recognizing Patterns in Memory (2022))
The text discusses the challenges of teaching debugging skills, particularly the importance of recognizing patterns in memory. It emphasizes that pattern recognition mainly comes from experience. The author shares some common patterns to help train the reader's ability to identify issues, particularly with memory corruption.
Key points include:
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Aligned Data: Memory often contains aligned 32-bit or 64-bit data, which can reveal patterns when viewed in chunks. This helps identify potential issues related to memory corruption.
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Pointers: Recognizing pointers can be straightforward since they usually fit within a specific address range. Patterns in memory dumps can indicate if a value is a pointer.
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UTF-16 Encoding: Common in Windows, UTF-16 data can be identified by its structure, which shows zeros in alternate bytes when viewed in hex.
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Code Patterns: Recognizing patterns in executable code can help identify functions. Specific sequences of bytes often indicate common instructions.
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High Entropy Data: Data that lacks clear structure may be compressed or encrypted. Identifying high entropy data can be complex and often requires looking for headers or signatures.
The author concludes by expressing satisfaction in recognizing data patterns and invites readers to share their own tips.
58.Show HN: Memex is a Claude Code alternative built on Rust+Tauri for vibe coding(Show HN: Memex is a Claude Code alternative built on Rust+Tauri for vibe coding)
No summary available.
59.Uncovering the mechanics of The Games: Winter Challenge(Uncovering the mechanics of The Games: Winter Challenge)
Summary of "Uncovering the mechanics of The Games: Winter Challenge"
The author revisits "The Games: Winter Challenge," a 1991 Winter Olympics video game, driven by nostalgia and curiosity about its mechanics. As a computer scientist, they are more interested in understanding the game's inner workings than merely playing it. The author recalls trying to achieve a 100-meter ski jump as a child and aims to optimize gameplay using the game's replay system.
The journey begins by acquiring different versions of the game, including its original release and a GOG version. The original game used a physical code wheel for copy protection, which the GOG version has removed, leading to issues reported by players regarding gameplay bugs. The author investigates various game versions, including cracked versions that bypass the copy protection.
During the analysis of the game's binary code, the author finds that the game uses a compression method called LZEXE, which packs the executable file. After unpacking it, they discover that the core logic remains consistent across versions, while resources like graphics and sounds vary. The author also explains how DOS programs interact with the operating system through interrupts and how overlays help manage memory limitations.
Overall, this exploration reveals the complexities of early video game development and the challenges of understanding and optimizing vintage software.
60.Reanimation of the original Logic Theorist, the first AI, in IPL-V [video](Reanimation of the original Logic Theorist, the first AI, in IPL-V [video])
It looks like there is no text provided to summarize. Please provide the text you'd like me to summarize, and I'll be happy to help!
61.AI-generated code could be a disaster for the software supply chain(AI-generated code could be a disaster for the software supply chain)
AI-generated code poses significant risks to software security, particularly through "package hallucinations," which are references to non-existent libraries in the code. A recent study found that out of 576,000 code samples produced by various AI models, about 440,000 contained these fictitious dependencies, making them vulnerable to supply-chain attacks.
These attacks exploit the confusion caused by falsely named packages, allowing malicious code to be executed on users' systems if they trust the AI's output without verification. The research highlights that open-source models had a higher hallucination rate compared to commercial ones, and JavaScript code had more hallucinations than Python.
The findings underscore the ongoing issue of untrustworthy AI outputs, raising concerns as experts predict a future where most code will be AI-generated. Developers must be cautious and verify AI-produced code to protect against potential vulnerabilities.
62.Congress passes Take It Down act despite major flaws(Congress passes Take It Down act despite major flaws)
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which could allow powerful individuals to remove lawful speech they dislike. President Trump has indicated he would use this law to silence critics. The bill includes a broad takedown provision for any images with intimate or sexual content, lacking safeguards against misuse. It requires online platforms to remove content within 48 hours, which may lead them to take down legal content to avoid risk. This law could pressure platforms to monitor encrypted speech, threatening online privacy and security. Instead of creating new takedown rules, Congress should focus on enhancing existing protections for victims of non-consensual image sharing.
63.Show HN: Rad Type - Can we make gamepad typing fast?(Show HN: Rad Type - Can we make gamepad typing fast?)
No summary available.
64.Reversing the fossilization of computer science conferences(Reversing the fossilization of computer science conferences)
In the blog post "Reversing the Fossilization of Computer Science Conferences," Bertrand Meyer discusses the issues facing computer science conferences today. He notes that these conferences, which are crucial for publishing research, have become overly bureaucratic and career-focused, making them less effective at fostering innovation.
Key points include:
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Conferences as Publication Venues: Unlike other fields, computer science heavily relies on conferences for research publication. However, many attendees feel that the quality of submissions has declined.
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Bureaucratization: The increasing formalization and rigid rules in conference submissions have led to a focus on appearance over substance. This shift has created a culture where acceptance is seen as a career milestone rather than an opportunity to share innovative ideas.
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Standardization: Many conferences have developed strict standards for paper submissions, which can stifle creativity. Papers are often rejected for not conforming to specific formats or criteria, even if they present valuable ideas.
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Impact on Innovation: The emphasis on formal requirements can lead to the rejection of groundbreaking work, as innovative ideas may not fit neatly into established molds.
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Need for Change: Meyer suggests that to improve conferences, organizers should focus on evaluating the substance of ideas rather than adhering to rigid structures. Additionally, he advocates for reducing the career incentives tied to conference participation, allowing experienced researchers to lead the review process.
Overall, the article calls for a reevaluation of how conferences operate to ensure they remain valuable venues for sharing and advancing scientific knowledge.
65.What the heck is AEAD again?(What the heck is AEAD again?)
Summary of AEAD (Authenticated Encryption with Associated Data)
AEAD stands for "Authenticated Encryption with Associated Data." It is important in modern cryptography because it provides a secure way to encrypt data while also verifying its authenticity. Here's a simple breakdown of the key points:
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Why Use AEAD?
- AEAD is the current standard in the industry, used in protocols like TLS 1.3 and QUIC. It helps ensure data security and integrity.
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What is Authentication in Cryptography?
- Authentication means confirming that a message hasn’t been altered and comes from a legitimate source. This is crucial for security, as a lack of authentication could allow attackers to manipulate messages.
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Old vs. New Methods:
- Previously, encryption and authentication were done in separate steps, which could lead to mistakes. Newer methods, like those in the libsodium library, combine these processes, making it easier to implement secure encryption.
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What is Associated Data?
- Sometimes, you need to send unencrypted information along with encrypted data (like conversation IDs in a chat app). AEAD allows you to include and authenticate this associated data to prevent interception and manipulation.
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How AEAD Works:
- In AEAD, both the encrypted message and the associated data are authenticated together, simplifying the process and reducing the chance of errors.
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Choosing AEAD Implementations:
- Many standardized AEAD ciphers are available (like AES256-GCM and ChaCha20-Poly1305). It’s advisable to follow guidance from cryptography libraries like Google's Tink for the best choices.
In summary, AEAD is a modern, secure method for encrypting data that ensures both confidentiality and authenticity, making it essential for developers and applications handling sensitive information.
66.CSS Zen Garden(CSS Zen Garden)
Summary of CSS Zen Garden Overview
CSS Zen Garden showcases the potential of CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) by allowing designers to create beautiful web pages while keeping the same HTML structure. The project encourages participation from both experienced and novice CSS users, offering sample files and resources to help them get started.
Key Points:
- Purpose: The goal is to inspire creativity and demonstrate how CSS can enhance web design.
- Participation Requirements: Users can modify the CSS but not the HTML. They can download sample files, create their designs, and submit them for potential inclusion on the site.
- Benefits of Participation: Contributors gain recognition and help build a resource that showcases the power of CSS.
- Standards and Compatibility: Submissions should primarily use CSS 1 & 2, with limited use of CSS 3 & 4, ensuring compatibility across major browsers. Designs should work in at least IE9+ and the latest versions of Chrome and Firefox.
- Originality and Copyright: Participants must submit original artwork and respect copyright laws. CSS should be released under a Creative Commons license for educational purposes.
Overall, CSS Zen Garden is an opportunity for designers to demonstrate their skills and contribute to a gallery of innovative web design.
67.The hospital where staff treat fear of death as well as physical pain(The hospital where staff treat fear of death as well as physical pain)
The article discusses the experiences of patients in a palliative care unit at Hvidovre Hospital in Denmark, highlighting the compassionate approach of the staff towards terminally ill patients. Unlike traditional medical care focused on curing, the unit prioritizes providing comfort and easing fears surrounding death.
Key points include:
- Patients like René Damgaard, who is nearing the end of life, receive support not only for physical pain but also for emotional and existential distress. Staff members, including doctors and nurses, emphasize the importance of listening to patients' needs and fears.
- The article contrasts the palliative care approach with the ongoing debate in Denmark about assisted dying, suggesting that many patients prefer to live as long as possible, even in the face of terminal illness.
- Staff meetings are held daily to discuss patient care, addressing both medical needs and emotional support for patients and their families.
- The care unit fosters a calm atmosphere, allowing patients to connect with loved ones and say meaningful goodbyes, which is considered crucial for a dignified death.
- Examples of individual patients, such as Liv Simonsen and Niels Abrahamsen, illustrate the varied experiences and emotions of those receiving palliative care, from fear and sadness to moments of joy and hope.
Overall, the article highlights the importance of compassionate care in the final stages of life, focusing on comfort, emotional support, and the dignity of dying.
68.You Don't Know Git – Edward Thomson – NDC London 2025 [video](You Don't Know Git – Edward Thomson – NDC London 2025 [video])
It seems that there is no text provided for summarization. Please provide the text you would like summarized, and I would be happy to help!
69.Soupault (static website generator) version 5 released(Soupault (static website generator) version 5 released)
Summary of Soupault 5.0.0 Release:
- Release Date: April 24, 2025.
- Download: Available on the author's server and GitHub.
Key Features:
- Built-in Markdown Support: Users can now directly use Markdown without needing external converters.
- New Widgets:
- element_template: Transforms custom HTML elements into real HTML without coding in Lua.
- os_family option: Allows widgets to adapt commands based on the operating system (Unix or Windows).
- New Plugin Functions: Added functions for table sorting and string conversions.
Changes:
- Strict Mode: Now the only mode available; previous settings to ignore errors are deprecated.
- Index Access: Site index is available to all pages by default.
- Memory Usage: Soupault may run out of memory when processing very large websites as it now loads all pages into RAM before processing.
- Configuration Options Removed: Certain old features and options have been removed or consolidated for simplicity.
Windows-Specific Updates:
- ANSI color support for logs is now enabled by default.
- Executables are built on Windows Server 2022.
Bug Fixes:
- Clean URLs now consistently include trailing slashes.
- Selector lists are supported in all built-in widgets.
Future Plans:
- Improve widget config validation.
- Develop parallel page processing.
- Potential integration of custom actions and WASM plugins.
Before upgrading, users are advised to review the release notes for potential adjustments to their configurations.
70.Internet in a Box(Internet in a Box)
Summary: Internet-in-a-Box
Internet-in-a-Box provides a way to access educational resources without the internet, serving communities like remote villages through local Wi-Fi. It can be set up on a $35 Raspberry Pi computer, which is available fully assembled for $58.
Key Features:
- Easy Installation: Users can set it up on a Raspberry Pi or a Linux PC using free software from the Internet-in-a-Box website or GitHub. Additional resources like OpenStreetMap can be included.
- Quality Content: It offers customizable content packs in various languages from libraries like Kiwix and Archive.org, along with educational videos and apps for students and teachers.
- Community Support: The project relies on volunteers and encourages community involvement, allowing users to add local content and artifacts.
Internet-in-a-Box aims to enhance learning opportunities for everyone, especially in underserved areas. The initiative has evolved significantly since its launch in 2013 and continues to seek support and contributions from the community.
71.Show HN: I486SX_soft_FPU – Software FPU Emulator for NetBSD 10 on 486SX(Show HN: I486SX_soft_FPU – Software FPU Emulator for NetBSD 10 on 486SX)
Summary of FPU Emulation Revival for i486SX on NetBSD
This project aims to restore support for the x87 floating-point unit (FPU) emulation in the NetBSD operating system for older 486SX processors that lack hardware FPUs. It reinstates the MATH_EMULATE option in NetBSD 10.x and adjusts previous changes that removed FPU emulation support.
Key Points:
- Project Status: This is a work in progress that may have bugs. Use it at your own risk.
- Functionality:
- Some functions, like
fyl2x
, work but may give incorrect results when invoked from the standard library. - Various FPU instructions have been successfully emulated with most basic operations functioning well.
- Some functions, like
Emulated Instructions:
- Initialization:
fninit
- OK - Load Operations:
fld
,fldt
,filds
,fildl
- OK - Store Operations:
fstps
,fstpt
- OK - Arithmetic:
fadd
,fsub
,fmul
,fdiv
- OK - Comparison:
fcom
,fucom
,ftst
- OK - Stack Manipulation:
fxch
,fchs
,fabs
- OK - Special Operations: Some operations like
fyl2xp1
andfsqrt
are not available.
Installation Instructions:
- Obtain the source code.
- Compile the kernel by modifying the configuration files to include the MATH_EMULATE option.
- Install the new kernel.
For further assistance or to report issues, contact Mikhail Zakharov. The project is based on original code licensed under the BSD-2-Clause license.
72.The group chats that changed America(The group chats that changed America)
The article discusses the rise of influential group chats among elite figures in Silicon Valley and beyond, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. These chats, primarily on platforms like Signal and WhatsApp, have become spaces for political and cultural discussions that blend tech and right-wing ideologies.
Key points include:
-
Origins and Growth: The group chats started in the late 2010s and gained momentum during the pandemic, with Marc Andreessen and others creating spaces for private discussions away from public scrutiny.
-
Influential Members: Key figures include venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, who is seen as a driving force in these discussions, and others like Joe Lonsdale and Balaji Srinivasan. These members often engage in heated debates on various topics, from politics to culture.
-
Political Impact: The chats have played a significant role in shaping a pro-Trump alliance among tech elites, as they allowed participants to share ideas and strategies in a less censored environment. They are viewed as a "dark matter" influencing American politics and media.
-
Cultural Shifts: Participants have expressed a sentiment of being part of a countercultural movement, where they can discuss ideas that felt marginalized on mainstream social media. This has led to a notable shift toward right-leaning politics in Silicon Valley.
-
Diverse Dynamics: While there are also group chats among liberals and other political factions, the unique nature of these tech-right chats has fostered a distinct intellectual environment. However, tensions have arisen, especially during debates about controversial topics.
-
Privacy and Secrecy: The use of disappearing messages and encrypted platforms has kept many discussions private, though the influence of these chats has spilled over into public conversations and social media.
-
Future of Group Chats: As social media dynamics evolve, there is speculation about how these group chats will adapt and whether their influence will persist in a changing political landscape.
Overall, the article highlights the significant role that these group chats play in modern political discourse, particularly among influential figures in technology and media.
73.Show HN: Autarkie – Instant grammar fuzzing using Rust macros(Show HN: Autarkie – Instant grammar fuzzing using Rust macros)
Autarkie - Instant Grammar Fuzzing Using Rust Macros
Autarkie is a grammar fuzzer created with Rust that uses procedural macros to automate most of its functions. It is inspired by another tool called Nautilus.
Key Features:
- Acts as a simple replacement for various grammar fuzzers.
- Conducts actual grammar fuzzing without being "structure aware."
- Compatible with AFL++ (Forkserver) and cargo-fuzz (Inprocess).
- Allows fuzzing of C/C++ code using Rust-defined grammar.
- User-friendly, with complexity hidden from the user.
- Easy to integrate with other fuzzing tools.
Unique Features:
- No need for grammar maintenance; it updates automatically with code changes.
- Exhaustive grammar checks ensure all necessary types are included.
- Re-usable corpus: you can pause and restart the fuzzer without losing progress.
- Can learn from other fuzzers (this feature is still being developed).
- Supports native cmplog (also in development).
Usage Examples:
- Fuzzing C/C++ Projects: An example shows how to fuzz SQLite3 using a Rust-defined grammar in under 5 minutes.
- Fuzzing Rust Projects: Another example demonstrates fuzzing Solana's sbpf interpreter easily.
Limitations:
- Autarkie is currently in beta, so users may encounter issues.
- Types must own all their data and cannot use lifetimes due to technical requirements.
- It only works with nightly versions of Rust because of specific features used.
Contributions: Feedback and contributions are encouraged from users.
74.How the April 28, 2025 power outage in Portugal/Spain impacted Internet traffic(How the April 28, 2025 power outage in Portugal/Spain impacted Internet traffic)
On April 28, 2025, a major power outage affected large areas of Portugal and Spain, disrupting daily life and services. The outage began at 10:34 UTC, with Portugal’s power grid operator attributing it to issues in the Spanish electricity grid, although this was later denied.
Impact on Internet Traffic:
In Portugal:
- Internet traffic dropped significantly: starting with a 50% decline and reaching 90% below normal within five hours.
- Traffic to Cloudflare's DNS resolver fell by 40% initially.
- Local internet providers like NOS, Vodafone, and MEO saw a rapid decrease in traffic.
- Despite a spike in mobile traffic as people sought information, overall mobile traffic also declined.
- Quality of connectivity suffered, with median download speeds dropping from 40 Mbps to 15 Mbps and latency increasing from 20 ms to 50 ms.
- The number of visible IP addresses on the internet decreased, indicating network infrastructure issues.
In Spain:
- Internet traffic dropped about 60% initially and fell to 80% below normal shortly after.
- Request traffic to Cloudflare's DNS also saw a significant drop but stabilized after some time.
- Similar to Portugal, the quality of connectivity worsened, with speeds falling from 35 Mbps to 19 Mbps and latency increasing from 22 ms to 40 ms.
- IP address visibility on the internet also decreased significantly.
Regional Effects:
- In both countries, some regions experienced sharper declines in traffic than others, with areas like Aveiro and Viseu in Portugal and various regions in Spain showing the most significant drops.
Impact on Other Countries:
- Parts of France and Andorra were also affected, but disruptions were minimal compared to Spain and Portugal. Morocco reported some internet traffic issues related to the outage.
Conclusion: As power was being restored, internet traffic and connectivity were expected to recover gradually. Cloudflare continues to monitor the situation and provide updates on internet connectivity in the affected regions.
75.The Linux Memory Manager(The Linux Memory Manager)
This document is an outline for a book that covers various aspects of computer memory management. Here are the key points from the table of contents:
- Introduction: An overview of the topic.
- Physical Memory: Discussion on the actual hardware memory.
- Virtual Memory: Explanation of memory abstraction that allows for more efficient memory use.
- Process Memory: How memory is managed for running processes.
- Memory Mapping: Techniques for mapping files or devices into memory.
- Page Faults: Understanding what happens when requested data is not in memory.
- Reverse Mappings: Exploring how memory addresses map back to physical locations.
- Manipulating Userland Memory: How user-level applications interact with memory.
- The Page Cache: Using cached pages to speed up data access.
- Writeback: The process of writing data back from cache to storage.
- Reclaim and Memory Pressure: Managing memory when resources are low.
- Swap Memory: Using disk space to extend physical memory.
- The Out of Memory (OOM) Killer: Mechanism to handle situations where memory is exhausted.
- Practical Memory Management: Real-world applications and strategies for managing memory.
An index is also included for reference. The chapters are part of an Early Access PDF version of the book.
76.Naur's "Programming as Theory Building" and LLMs replacing human programmers(Naur's "Programming as Theory Building" and LLMs replacing human programmers)
The text argues against the idea that large language models (LLMs) can replace human programmers, referencing Peter Naur's essay "Programming as Theory Building."
Key points include:
-
Understanding Theory: Naur's concept of "theory" is based on philosopher Gilbert Ryle’s ideas. A theory is not just knowledge but requires practical experience in creating and understanding a program.
-
LLMs Lack True Theory: While LLMs can produce text that appears knowledgeable, they do not possess genuine understanding or theory. They only generate outputs based on existing data and cannot create or adapt theories themselves.
-
Programming vs. Text Production: Programming is more than just writing code; it involves developing a deep understanding of the program. Naur emphasizes that programming is not merely a production process but requires insight and experience.
-
Human Programmers' Role: Human programmers build theories through hands-on experience, which LLMs cannot replicate. The text concludes that for LLMs to replace programmers, they would need to develop theories as humans do, which is unlikely.
Overall, the argument stresses that programming involves complex understanding that LLMs are not capable of achieving.
77.Setting up a timekeeping server with a Power Macintosh(Setting up a timekeeping server with a Power Macintosh)
Summary of Setting Up Reliable Timekeeping
This guide outlines how to set up a reliable timekeeping server using a Power Macintosh G4 and GPS technology.
-
Setting Up the Server:
- The author revived an idle Power Mac G4 MDD to create a Linux server.
- They installed a SATA drive with the help of a PCI SATA card, although compatibility issues arose with MacOS.
-
Installing Debian Linux:
- The author successfully booted the G4 using a Debian Linux CD and installed the OS on the SATA drive.
-
GPS Receiver:
- A GPS receiver is necessary for accurate timekeeping, as it provides time data synchronized with atomic clocks.
- The recommended model is the Navisys GR-601W_1PPS GPS Receiver, which can deliver timing data accurate to within 1 millisecond.
-
Software Installation:
- Install two packages using the Debian package manager:
gpsd
for GPS data andntp
for time synchronization.
- Install two packages using the Debian package manager:
-
Software Configuration:
- Configure
gpsd
to ensure the GPS receiver is working properly and set up NTP with specific parameters for better accuracy.
- Configure
-
Systemd Issues:
- The migration to systemd on Debian caused some issues with
gpsd
configuration. The author resolved this by modifying the service file to include specific options.
- The migration to systemd on Debian caused some issues with
-
Results:
- After running the system for several hours, the timekeeping was highly accurate, with minimal offset and jitter.
- The G4's clock precision was noted to be significantly better compared to Intel machines.
The author has set up monitoring for ongoing timekeeping performance and encourages donations for further software development.
78.Dear "Security Researchers"(Dear "Security Researchers")
No summary available.
79.Watching o3 model sweat over a Paul Morphy mate-in-2(Watching o3 model sweat over a Paul Morphy mate-in-2)
The author shares an amusing experience of testing OpenAI's o3 model with a challenging chess puzzle. Here's a simplified summary of the key points:
-
Puzzle Overview: The puzzle is a famous checkmate-in-2 problem attributed to Paul Morphy.
-
Analysis Process:
- The model carefully reconstructed the chessboard from an image and analyzed the positions of the pieces.
- It initially tried obvious moves but doubted their effectiveness, realizing they wouldn't lead to checkmate.
-
Attempts to Solve:
- When reasoning proved insufficient, the model attempted to use Python to run a chess engine but couldn't due to a missing module.
- It then resorted to pixel analysis to deduce piece positions, demonstrating persistence.
-
Signs of Frustration: As it struggled to find a solution, the model showed signs of panic and uncertainty about the best move.
-
Cheating with a Web Search: After nearly 8 minutes of efforts, it finally searched online and found the solution (Ra6) on a chess forum. However, it didn't just copy the answer but verified and understood why it worked.
-
Conclusion: The model's approach to problem-solving was likened to human behavior, as it reasoned, doubted itself, and tried different tools before seeking help online. This highlights both the strengths and limitations of current AI models in creative problem-solving.
80.Oracle engineers caused five days software outage at U.S. hospitals(Oracle engineers caused five days software outage at U.S. hospitals)
No summary available.
81.How a Pipe Organ Works (2020)(How a Pipe Organ Works (2020))
A pipe organ is a large musical instrument that produces sound through pipes, similar to a collection of whistles. Each pipe sits on a wind chest filled with compressed air from a bellows or blower. The organ has stops that control different sets of pipes, allowing the organist to choose various tones. When a stop is pulled, air can flow through the pipes, but sound only occurs when a key is pressed, opening a valve that lets air into the selected pipe.
Every pipe organ is unique and custom-made, taking into account factors like the types of sounds, the size of the room, the instrument's appearance, and the budget.
82.Forensic Fandom(Forensic Fandom)
No summary available.
83.Mesmerizing Interlocking Geometric Patterns Produced with Japanese Woodworking(Mesmerizing Interlocking Geometric Patterns Produced with Japanese Woodworking)
Kumiko is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique that creates intricate geometric patterns using thin, interlocking wooden slats. This art form, which dates back to the Asuka period (538-710 C.E.), has gained popularity worldwide and will be featured at the Smithsonian Craft Show in Washington, D.C., from April 24 to 27, 2025.
David Gootnick, a contemporary kumiko craftsman, creates his pieces from Alaskan cedar, shaping the wood into precise strips and angles to form beautiful designs. He incorporates traditional motifs while adding his own modern touches, such as using contrasting woods and colorful fabrics. While traditional kumiko relies solely on the pressure of the joints for assembly, Gootnick sometimes uses a small amount of glue for durability.
Another artist at the Craft Show, Michael Jury, also utilizes kumiko techniques, often in his handmade furniture. His work includes traditional designs like the hemp leaf pattern, showcasing the versatility of kumiko in contemporary art.
Both artists emphasize the skill and precision needed for kumiko, with Gootnick noting that his craftsmanship improves over time. This ancient technique continues to inspire and evolve, blending tradition with modern creativity.
84.Show HN: Daily Jailbreak – Prompt Engineer's Wordle(Show HN: Daily Jailbreak – Prompt Engineer's Wordle)
The text indicates that a process is taking place to check or confirm the safety and functionality of your web browser.
85.To 'Reclaim Future-Making', Amazon Workers Published Collection of SciFi Stories(To 'Reclaim Future-Making', Amazon Workers Published Collection of SciFi Stories)
Summary of "The World After Amazon: Writing from the Rank and File"
In 2023, the Worker as Futurist Project helped 13 Amazon workers write speculative fiction about a future beyond Amazon. The book showcases their stories, highlighting how Amazon, while promoting a vision of convenience, often subjects its workers to harsh conditions. The project encourages workers to express their own narratives and take part in shaping the future.
The stories explore various themes, such as collaboration between humans and robots, personal revolutions, and the impact of corporate exploitation. This collection emphasizes the importance of worker storytelling in understanding and organizing against current labor conditions.
Notable contributors, including professors and authors, highlight the imaginative potential of these narratives as a form of political expression. The book aims to inspire hope and solidarity among workers and communities resisting corporate control.
Readers can access the stories online or through various formats, including podcasts and audiobooks. The project also hosts events to discuss these themes and promote worker voices in speculative fiction.
86.The first giant 15 MW turbine is up at Germany's largest offshore wind farm(The first giant 15 MW turbine is up at Germany's largest offshore wind farm)
A Tesla insider has bought company stock for the first time in years, and the situation is being described as amusing. The article, written by Fred Lambert on April 29, 2025, highlights the significance of this purchase and the reactions surrounding it.
87.Business co-founders in tech startups are less valuable than they think(Business co-founders in tech startups are less valuable than they think)
Summary: Business Founders Are Less Valuable Than They Think
Many aspiring tech startup founders, often non-technical, struggle to find technical co-founders because they overestimate their own value. They typically believe that having a good idea makes them essential, but in reality, executing that idea is what truly matters.
A common issue among these founders is an inflated ego, which can make them difficult to work with. Skilled engineers are less likely to join a startup led by someone who has a dominating attitude.
Business founders often misplace their value by thinking their ideas are the most important contribution. However, the execution, primarily done by technical co-founders, is what creates success. Historical examples show that the person who can effectively execute an idea is more valuable than the idea itself.
To increase their worth, business founders should focus on developing strong relationships and networks with potential customers or investors. Demonstrating the ability to connect with a large audience or generate interest in a product can make them more attractive as co-founders.
In conclusion, the most successful business founders have access to valuable networks and know how to build relationships. By focusing on these areas, they can enhance their contributions to their startups and establish themselves as serious players in the business world.
88.Show HN: I made a web-based, free alternative to Screen Studio(Show HN: I made a web-based, free alternative to Screen Studio)
No summary available.
89.Power Is Largely Restored in Spain After Widespread Outage(Power Is Largely Restored in Spain After Widespread Outage)
No summary available.
90.Presentation Slides with Markdown(Presentation Slides with Markdown)
The text outlines the main features and resources related to a tool called Slidev. Key points include:
- Main Navigation: Sections for getting started, syntax, user interface, animations, themes and addons, components, layouts, exporting, hosting, and FAQs.
- Advanced Features: Options for customizing configurations, writing layouts, themes, and addons, as well as various configurations for tools like highlighters, Vite, plugins, and more.
- Resources: Includes showcases, theme gallery, addon gallery, and learning resources.
- Updates: Mentions release notes for version 51.6.0 in English and Simplified Chinese.
Overall, it provides guidance on how to use Slidev effectively and where to find additional resources.
91.Programming languages should have a tree traversal primitive(Programming languages should have a tree traversal primitive)
No summary available.
92.Show HN: Discorss – RSS Feeds for Discord(Show HN: Discorss – RSS Feeds for Discord)
Discorss is a tool that summarizes your RSS feeds and sends them directly to Discord. You can use slash commands to personalize your feeds. For more information, you can view it on GitHub. It was created in San Francisco.
93.How a single line of code could brick your iPhone(How a single line of code could brick your iPhone)
Summary:
A recent discovery revealed a significant vulnerability in iOS that could be exploited with a single line of code, potentially causing devices to enter a "Restore in Progress" state and effectively soft-bricking them. The vulnerability revolves around a feature called Darwin notifications, which allows processes on Apple devices to send and receive messages without needing special permissions.
Key points include:
-
Darwin Notifications: These are low-level messages used for communication between processes in Apple's operating systems. They do not require special privileges to send or receive, which poses a risk for potential exploitation.
-
Vulnerability Exploit: A proof-of-concept app called "EvilNotify" was created to demonstrate this vulnerability. It could trigger various system-wide disruptions, including forcing the device to enter a state that requires a restart to escape.
-
Denial of Service: By repeatedly exploiting this notification, the device could be made unusable, requiring a full erase and restore to regain functionality.
-
Mitigation by Apple: After reporting the vulnerability, Apple addressed it in iOS 18.3 by requiring special entitlements for sending sensitive notifications. This change prevents unauthorized apps from posting notifications that could disrupt system operations.
The vulnerability was reported in June 2024, and a bounty of $17,500 was awarded for its discovery. The issue was officially assigned a CVE number (CVE-2025-24091).
94.The companies racing to build quantum chips(The companies racing to build quantum chips)
Quantum computing is becoming more of a reality with several companies working to create practical applications, solving complex issues in fields like medicine, cybersecurity, and materials science. Key challenges include developing chips that can efficiently handle many qubits (quantum bits).
Major tech companies like Google and Microsoft are leading the charge, but startups are also making significant contributions, especially in areas like connectivity and error correction. Some noteworthy companies include:
- Akhetonics (Germany) - Developing an all-optical chip with €6 million in funding.
- Alice & Bob (France) - Raised $104 million to create a fault-tolerant quantum computer using cat qubits.
- Amazon - Launched its first quantum chip, Ocelot, in early 2025.
- Atom Computing (USA) - Working on quantum computers using neutral atoms, with plans for a commercial launch in 2025.
- D-Wave - Known for its quantum annealing system, the Advantage2 prototype.
- EeroQ (USA) - Focusing on helium-based quantum chips, with a recent funding boost.
- Fujitsu and RIKEN (Japan) - Developed a 256-qubit superconducting quantum computer.
- Google - Introduced Willow, a new chip touted as a breakthrough in quantum error correction.
- IBM - Working on a 1,121-qubit chip named Condor and a 156-qubit processor called Heron.
- Intel - Plans to release a next-gen quantum chip based on silicon spin qubits.
- IonQ - Developing trapped-ion quantum computers, including the IonQ Forte.
- Pasqal (France) - Utilizing neutral atoms and recently raised €100 million.
- PsiQuantum - Aiming for a 1 million-qubit machine with photonics technology.
- Rigetti Computing - Focused on superconducting technology, with plans for a new 336-qubit system.
- QuEra (USA) - Launched a 256-qubit neutral-atom computer called Aquila.
- Xanadu (Canada) - Introduced a 12-qubit photonic system named Aurora.
These companies, along with several others, are pushing the boundaries of quantum computing, each with unique approaches and technologies.
95.Show HN: A Common Lisp implementation in development, supports ASDF(Show HN: A Common Lisp implementation in development, supports ASDF)
Summary of A lisp Implementation
-
Project Overview: This is a Lisp interpreter project named "alisp." The goal is to achieve compatibility with Common Lisp, although the developer is flexible about strict adherence.
-
Current Status: The project is in beta development and currently functions as an interpreter. Future plans include adding compilation features.
-
Key Features:
- Written in C89 syntax.
- Uses GNU readline for user input and GNU mp for arbitrary precision arithmetic.
- Includes over 75% of Common Lisp features.
- Offers a basic profiler and a debugger with stepping capabilities.
-
Getting Started: Users can clone the repository using the command:
git clone https://git.savannah.nongnu.org/git/alisp.git
. It is recommended to use the latest version from the repository rather than released tarballs for the newest features and fixes. -
Licensing: The software is released under the GNU General Public License version 3 or later.
-
Development Updates: Recent updates include improvements in various features such as the LOOP construct, compiler capabilities, and debugging tools. Version history includes:
- 1.1: Released March 2025 with various enhancements.
- 1.0: Released November 2024 with significant feature improvements.
- Earlier versions also included various improvements and bug fixes.
-
Support and Contributions: The project is maintained by a single developer, Andrea Monaco. Users are encouraged to report bugs and suggest features, but contributions via patches are not currently accepted.
-
Donations: Users can support the project through donations on platforms like Liberapay or Patreon.
For more details, users can refer to the project's README and NOTES files available in the repository.
96.Unlocking Ractors: Object_id(Unlocking Ractors: Object_id)
The blog post discusses the challenges and improvements related to Ractors in Ruby, particularly focusing on the #object_id
method, which has become a contention point in concurrent programming.
Key points include:
-
Ractors and Performance Issues: Ractors are a way to run parallel code in Ruby, but they face performance issues due to global locks in the Ruby VM, which can make them slower than single-threaded code.
-
Recent Improvements: A team is working on fixing known bugs and reducing points of contention. A significant update involved replacing a problematic string deduplication hash table with a lock-free version, which improved performance for Ractors.
-
The
#object_id
Method: The implementation of#object_id
changed in Ruby 2.7 to use hash tables for stability during garbage collection, but this added overhead and necessitated locks for concurrent access, making it a bottleneck. -
Future Plans: The author suggests optimizations for
#object_id
, such as deferring the creation of hash table entries until necessary and considering storing theobject_id
directly within objects to reduce locking. -
Complexity of Changes: Changes involve understanding Ruby's object model and how instance variables are stored. Some objects use inline storage, while others rely on hash tables, complicating potential optimizations.
-
Conclusion: The author is working on a patch to address these issues but acknowledges that more work is needed. The goal is to enhance parallelism in Ruby and make Ractors more efficient.
Overall, the post highlights ongoing efforts to improve Ruby's concurrency features while addressing the complexities of the language's design.
97.OpenAI Adds Shopping to ChatGPT in a Challenge to Google(OpenAI Adds Shopping to ChatGPT in a Challenge to Google)
OpenAI is introducing a shopping feature within ChatGPT that allows users to browse and find products, complete with recommendations and buy buttons. Users will not be able to check out directly in ChatGPT; instead, they will be redirected to the retailer's website to complete their purchase. The recommendations are personalized based on user preferences and product reviews from various sources.
Adam Fry, OpenAI's search product lead, explained that ChatGPT will provide organic product results rather than paid ads, making the shopping experience more conversational and tailored, unlike Google Shopping. Additionally, users can instruct ChatGPT on what types of reviews to prioritize when it suggests products.
OpenAI is still figuring out how affiliate revenue will work with this new feature. Currently, the focus is on improving user experience, with future plans for monetization still being developed. OpenAI aims to significantly increase its revenue, targeting $125 billion by 2029. Other companies, like Perplexity and Google, are also experimenting with AI-driven shopping features.
98.Did 5G kill the IMSI catcher?(Did 5G kill the IMSI catcher?)
The article discusses the security vulnerability known as the IMSI catcher, which has been a concern in mobile networks for a long time. Here are the key points:
-
IMSI Overview: The International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) is a unique number linked to your mobile account that helps connect your SIM card to the network.
-
IMSI Catchers: These are tools that can capture IMSIs from mobile devices. There are two types:
- Active IMSI Catchers: These simulate cell towers to trick devices into connecting, allowing them to capture IMSIs. They are detectable and illegal.
- Passive IMSI Catchers: These listen in on communications without interference, making them harder to detect.
-
How They Work: When a mobile device connects to a network, it frequently sends its IMSI during registration. This process can be exploited, especially during mobility, when devices switch between towers.
-
Security Improvements in 5G: The introduction of 5G has brought enhancements, like encrypting the IMSI, now called the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI), making it more secure. However, vulnerabilities still exist, especially in networks that have not fully transitioned to 5G.
-
Potential for Exploitation: While 5G offers better security, many existing vulnerabilities from earlier generations (2G, 3G, and 4G) remain. Misconfigured towers or incomplete 5G rollouts can still expose users to risks.
-
Preventive Measures: Users can take steps to reduce the risk of IMSI catchers, such as prioritizing 5G connections or using Faraday bags to block signals.
In summary, while 5G has improved the security landscape, IMSI catchers remain a concern, particularly in areas where older network standards are still in use.
99.Generating Mazes with Inductive Graphs (2017)(Generating Mazes with Inductive Graphs (2017))
The code demonstrates that once you have some knowledge, tasks in functional programming can be simpler than they appear. By using the right concepts, working with graphs or randomness can be easy, even in Haskell. This exercise helps improve Haskell skills and shows the language's versatility.
100.An Illustrated Guide to Automatic Sparse Differentiation(An Illustrated Guide to Automatic Sparse Differentiation)
No summary available.