The article discusses GrapheneOS, a secure and privacy-focused mobile operating system based on Android. In early May 2024, misinformation spread on social media claimed that GrapheneOS had been compromised, but this was based on a misunderstanding of consent-based data extraction—where users voluntarily unlock their devices for data extraction.

Digital forensics is the process of analyzing electronic data for legal purposes, but it can be misused against individuals like journalists or activists. GrapheneOS developers aim to protect users from unauthorized data extraction, making it difficult for forensic tools to access data without consent.

Cellebrite, a company specializing in digital forensics, provides tools that can extract data from locked devices. They can unlock most Android and iOS devices, but they have admitted that they cannot hack into fully updated GrapheneOS devices. Data extraction can be done if users voluntarily unlock their devices, but Cellebrite's tools cannot brute force certain security features on GrapheneOS devices.

GrapheneOS has robust security measures, including restrictions on USB connections and mechanisms to thwart brute force attacks, such as delayed attempts after several failures. It also features an auto-reboot function that enhances data security by reverting the device to a locked state after a certain period.

In summary, GrapheneOS is committed to user privacy and security, and while misinformation exists about its vulnerabilities, it remains one of the most secure operating systems available. Users are encouraged to use strong passphrases and will soon benefit from features that improve both security and convenience.

Coralie Mercier informed the W3C group about the passing of Gregg Kellogg, a valued contributor and co-chair of the JSON-LD Working Group. Gregg had openly discussed his health issues prior to his death. He was an influential figure in the W3C, having co-edited nine published recommendations and worked on numerous specifications over the last 13 years. His contributions included open-source implementations and test suites that are still in use. Gregg was appreciated not only for his work but also for his friendly nature. The group is planning tributes to honor him, and members can contact Pierre-Antoine Champin for more information.

Bun is a new package manager that significantly speeds up package installation compared to traditional tools like npm, pnpm, and yarn. It is about 7 times faster than npm, 4 times faster than pnpm, and 17 times faster than yarn. This improvement is particularly noticeable in large codebases, where tasks that used to take minutes now take only milliseconds.

The performance boost comes from Bun's approach, which treats package installation as a systems programming challenge rather than a JavaScript problem. This involves reducing system calls, optimizing file operations, and utilizing modern hardware capabilities, such as multi-core processors and fast SSDs.

Historically, package managers were developed when hardware was much slower. Now, with advancements in technology, the bottleneck has shifted from hardware speed to software inefficiencies, particularly related to system calls and memory management.

Bun minimizes system calls and uses efficient techniques like direct system call access, binary manifest caching, and optimized tarball extraction. It reduces overhead by managing data in cache-friendly structures, allowing for faster access and processing. Bun also leverages multi-core parallelism, ensuring that all CPU cores are utilized effectively during installations.

In terms of file operations, Bun employs strategies like copy-on-write and hardlinks to minimize the number of system calls, making file copying much faster. These strategies are tailored to the specific operating system being used.

Overall, Bun's design is focused on modern hardware capabilities, resulting in a package manager that is not only faster but also more efficient in how it handles data and system resources.

Summary of "A Digital Darwin Adventure with Mating Melodies"

Music is an essential part of human life, connecting deeply with our emotions and behaviors. Research suggests that our brains respond to music even before we develop language skills. Inspired by this idea, the author created a digital tool called a "melody breeder," where users can select and combine melodies to see how they evolve, similar to biological evolution.

The concept draws on Richard Dawkins' idea of "memes," which are cultural elements that replicate and evolve like genes. Just like biological traits, musical styles change and adapt over time, influenced by what people enjoy listening to.

The author also links music to Conway's Game of Life, a simulation where simple rules create complex patterns, reflecting how musical structures can develop. The discussion extends to cultural phenomena, like the viral spread of certain toys on social media, which can resemble the spread of diseases. This shows how cultural ideas can spread through networks similarly to genetic information.

Overall, the piece highlights the patterns of evolution in both music and culture, emphasizing the power of programming to visualize these concepts. The author expresses excitement about using code to explore and share these ideas, ultimately connecting the evolution of music to broader cultural dynamics.

No summary available.

No summary available.

Summary: The Rise of Async Programming

Async programming is changing how developers work by allowing them to focus on defining problems clearly while delegating the coding tasks to AI agents or teammates. This approach separates the problem definition from the coding process, enabling developers to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Key Points:

1. Async Workflow:

   • Define the problem clearly with detailed specifications.
   • Delegate the implementation to AI or others.
   • Return later to review the results and provide feedback.

2. Three Pillars of Async Programming:

   • Clear Problem Definitions: Precise requirements lead to better results. Ambiguity can cause issues.
   • Automated Verification: Systems should automatically check code functionality, performance, and style without manual testing.
   • Detailed Code Review: Reviewing code, especially AI-generated code, is crucial to ensure quality and correctness.

3. Benefits:

   • Developers can manage multiple tasks at once, improving efficiency.
   • Focus shifts from typing to problem-solving and reviewing.
   • As tools improve, more developers are likely to adopt this method.

Async programming enhances collaboration and allows for deeper engagement with complex problems, while routine coding functions are handled in the background by AI.

The author shares their experience of managing PyTorch dependencies for a Python project called FileChat, which they want to distribute as a package. Setting up PyTorch to work across various operating systems and hardware is challenging, especially since custom package indices cannot be included in the distribution metadata.

To simplify installation, the author uses PEP 508, which allows specifying wheel URLs for dependencies and setting conditions for when certain dependencies should be installed based on the Python version. This approach enables a single-command installation for users, regardless of their system.

For different hardware setups on Linux, the author organizes dependencies into optional groups (cpu, xpu, cuda) with specific wheel URLs for each Python version. Users must choose the appropriate group during installation (e.g., pip install filechat[xpu]).

While this solution reduces the complexity for users, it requires the author to maintain the URLs for different dependencies as updates occur. They express hope that future tools, like PYX from Astral, may further simplify this process.

No summary available.

No summary available.

Summary of DeepCodeBench: Real-World Codebase Understanding by Q&A Benchmarking

Qodo has developed a new benchmark dataset called DeepCodeBench, which contains real-world questions based on complex code repositories. This dataset aims to help teams better understand large codebases and facilitate AI-assisted workflows by providing relevant questions and answers.

Key Points:

1. Motivation: Large codebases can be challenging for developers to navigate. Teams often have questions regarding their code, and a robust set of real-world questions is needed for effective benchmarking.

2. Dataset Generation: Questions are generated from pull requests (PRs), which contain complex code changes and provide context. The questions require deep retrieval across multiple files, reflecting realistic scenarios developers face.

3. Example: For a PR in Hugging Face's Transformers repository, the generated question focused on how certain classes handle shared mutable state, providing insight into the code's functionality.

4. Dataset Statistics: The dataset includes 1,144 questions from eight open-source repositories, categorized by scope (deep vs. broad) and core functionality.

5. Evaluation Mechanism: The performance of AI models is evaluated using a method called “fact recall,” which checks if the predicted answers contain specific facts from ground-truth answers.

6. Results: Qodo's Deep Research agent outperformed other models like Codex and Claude in terms of fact recall and speed, demonstrating the effectiveness of the dataset and retrieval system.

7. Release Information: Qodo is releasing the dataset, metadata, and prompts used for question generation to support further research and development in this area.

Overall, DeepCodeBench aims to enhance code understanding and improve AI-assisted coding workflows by providing a valuable resource for developers.

No summary available.

No summary available.

We are seeking a software engineer to help develop interactions and automation with Piramidal’s latest technologies. We value engineers who are proactive and focus on important details like data models and security to create great products.

In this position, you will:

• Build and maintain the backend systems for our main platform focused on neural data.
• Work closely with machine learning engineers to improve our models.
• Collaborate with the product team to understand and solve internal customer problems.

Ideal candidates will have:

• At least 3 years of experience in product-driven companies.
• Strong skills in Python and other backend programming languages.
• Experience with container technologies like Kubernetes.
• Knowledge of relational databases such as Postgres or MySQL.
• Familiarity with web technologies like JavaScript and React.
• The ability to work quickly and independently.

About Us: We are developing a unique model for brain data to help people understand and control neural processes. Our mission is to use technology to enhance human potential while supporting the rights to freedom of thought and mental privacy.

No summary available.

Summary:

CRDTs, or Conflict-Free Replicated Data Types, are special data structures that can be shared and updated across multiple nodes without needing constant coordination. They are particularly useful in applications like collaborative document editing and multiplayer to-do lists, but their main potential lies in distributed databases.

The concept of Strong Eventual Consistency (SEC) is central to CRDTs. Here’s what it means:

1. Eventual Delivery: Updates made to one node will eventually reach all other nodes.
2. Eventual Convergence: Nodes that have received the same updates will eventually have the same state.

SEC improves on this by ensuring Strong Convergence, which means that nodes that have processed the same updates will immediately have the same state, avoiding delays.

Key benefits of SEC include:

• Low Latency: Nodes can read and write data without waiting for coordination.
• High Fault Tolerance: The system can continue functioning even if several nodes fail.
• Offline Capability: Nodes can operate normally even when disconnected from the network.

In summary, Strong Eventual Consistency is a more effective form of consistency for applications requiring high reliability and responsiveness, making CRDTs essential for building robust distributed systems.

No summary available.

I created a custom Wayland Compositor that lets you run graphical applications in the terminal. This project shows the untapped potential of custom Wayland compositors, and I chose to start with terminal embedding because it's simple to manage input and output. I used the chafa library to handle the graphics.

I wrote most of the app in Typescript to attract other developers and encourage contributions. The drawing is done using the familiar Canvas2D API, and if there's interest, I could expand this into a Terminal canvas.

I have a blog post that explains my process, but it's more general and not very technical. If you have questions or ideas for other cool Wayland compositors, feel free to reach out!

(*Note: The compositor works with Wayland apps and X11 apps using Xwayland, which covers most applications on Linux.)

Summary of NearToilets

NearToilets is a helpful service that helps you find clean public toilets around the world. It provides real-time information, user ratings, and reviews to help you locate the nearest facilities, whether you're traveling or just out and about. You can explore an interactive map that shows the closest toilets, their cleanliness, and accessibility features.

The platform is community-driven, meaning users can contribute by adding new toilet locations and sharing their experiences. NearToilets is free to use, but you can support the project by becoming a sponsor or donating. The service aims to make finding clean toilets easier for everyone, enhancing the comfort of daily journeys.

Join the community and help others by sharing your tips and stories related to public toilets!

This weekend, I created a library called stacklib.h that allows C programmers to use stack operations similar to those in Forth. It includes features like:

• Stack operations: push, pop, duplicate, swap, over, and drop
• Basic arithmetic: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Output functions: printing values and managing line breaks
• Stack inspection: checking stack contents and depth

For example, you can initialize a stack, run commands like "10 20 +" to get 30, or check the stack contents with ".s".

The library is self-contained, has no dependencies, and includes basic error checking. I made it to better understand Forth while keeping it simple for C users.

I'm interested in feedback from others who enjoy stack-based programming. Have you made something similar? What additional features would enhance its usefulness?

You can find the library on GitHub: stacklib.

Summary of "Doomscrolling: The Game" by David Friedman

David Friedman explores the concept of doomscrolling—the habit of endlessly scrolling through negative content—and turns it into a web-based game inspired by the classic video game Doom. In this game, players only scroll to navigate, without any jumping or lateral movement.

Friedman initially struggled to create the game using AI coding tools but found success with GPT-5, which helped him develop a functional prototype quickly. He added features to enhance gameplay, such as weapon upgrades, obstacles, and health potions.

To make the game feel more like actual doomscrolling, he integrated real news headlines from the New York Times, displayed as plaques in the game that players can choose to read or ignore.

Though he faced challenges in creating visual elements, he used AI to generate and refine designs. After several iterations, he completed the game, which runs smoothly on both desktop and mobile devices. He invites players to enjoy the game and encourages them to share his newsletter to support his work.

The text discusses performance measurements of hash tables and sorting algorithms on a large AMD machine, and compares the efficiency of different data processing methods. Key findings include:

1. Performance Data: Measurements for hash tables and sorting algorithms show that tuned hash tables perform better than baseline ones across various data sizes.

2. Radix Sort Optimization: Traditional radix sort is inefficient because it requires multiple passes. A more efficient method called Diverting LSD radix sort is suggested, which switches to a simpler sorting algorithm when most elements are sorted.

3. Cache Management: Effective cache performance is crucial. Radix sort relies on keeping many cache lines active, but this is challenging because CPU caches are managed by hardware and can lead to inefficiencies. In contrast, hash tables can use prefetch instructions to optimize memory access and reduce cache misses.

4. Meta’s F14 Table: This table design improves performance by placing metadata and data slots closely together to enhance data locality.

5. Probing Techniques: While aligning probe sequences to cache lines can improve performance, it may increase the chance of overlapping keys starting from the same location, potentially increasing probe length.

Overall, the text emphasizes the importance of tuning data structures and understanding cache behavior to optimize performance in data processing.

No summary available.

Summary of C++20 Modules: Practical Insights, Status and TODOs

C++20 Modules aim to improve code modularity, encapsulation, and compilation speed while reducing library code size. Despite being finalized in 2019, their adoption remains limited as of 2025. This article shares insights from practical experiences with C++20 Modules, particularly in a Linux and Clang environment.

Key Points:

1. Build Systems: Modified Bazel is used for builds, with CMake noted as a challenge for many. Other build systems like XMake and HMake support C++20 Modules.

2. Compilation Speed: C++20 Modules can save compile time by 10% to 50%, with extreme cases reporting up to 26 times faster compilation. However, they can also slow compilation due to reduced parallelism or duplicate declarations.

3. Modules vs. PCH: C++20 Modules are distinct from Pre-Compiled Headers (PCH), offering better semantic handling and efficiency.

4. Code Size Reduction: Modules can decrease the size of object files by avoiding duplicate code generation, but final executable size may not change significantly.

5. Usability: C++20 Modules can be used in Linux with Clang and have some support in Windows environments. Refactoring existing code is the main challenge for adoption.

6. Modules Wrapper: A Modules Wrapper can allow both Module and header file usage, catering to different user needs without forcing changes on all users.

7. Implementation Details: Best practices include using specific filename suffixes for module units and avoiding mixing import statements with #include.

8. Runtime Issues: Migrating to Modules can expose ODR (One Definition Rule) violations and affect initialization of internal linkage variables.

9. Future Directions: There is a need for more libraries to support Modules, improved distribution methods for projects using them, and better tooling for conversion and support.

10. Compiler Improvements: Future work on C++20 Modules in compilers like Clang may include performance optimizations and standardizing Module Binary Interface (BMI) formats.

Overall, while C++20 Modules promise significant benefits, the transition requires careful planning and consideration of existing codebases and tooling.

No summary available.

Researchers have successfully used CRISPR gene-editing technology to treat a patient with type 1 diabetes by transplanting edited pancreatic cells. These cells produced insulin for several months without requiring the patient to take immunosuppressive drugs, which usually prevent the body from rejecting foreign cells.

The process involved taking islet cells from a deceased donor and modifying them with CRISPR to make them "hypoimmune," meaning they could avoid detection by the patient’s immune system. The implanted cells were functional and responded to glucose, which is crucial for managing diabetes.

While this study is a significant advancement, it involved only one patient and used a low dose of cells. The patient still needed insulin injections to manage blood sugar levels. Future clinical trials are planned to explore this approach further, despite some skepticism from other researchers about the effectiveness of the method. Overall, this breakthrough offers hope for new diabetes treatments without the risks associated with immunosuppression.

The tz database is a global collection of timezone data and rules, essential for converting time across different regions. It is distributed as the tzdata package, which can be installed using Docker. This package includes tools like zic for compiling timezone data and zdump for reading timezone files.

The tz database tracks historical changes in timezone rules, which can vary significantly over time. For example, Daylight Saving Time rules changed in California from 1950 to 2007. The database consists of three main components: rules (how and when to adjust time), zones (geographic timezones with UTC offsets), and links (aliases for timezones).

Users can create custom timezones by defining their own rules and zones in a specific format. An example from the text involves creating a fictional timezone for Konoha city in the Naruto universe.

In conclusion, the tz database is a complex yet essential tool for managing timezones accurately. The documentation provides valuable insights into timezone rules that apply in different regions.

This text discusses the origins and significance of the iconic white hat worn by Smurfs, known as a Phrygian cap.

1. What’s Under a Smurf's Hat?: The only definitive source about Smurfs is Peyo's comics. In one comic, "The Purple Smurf," Papa Smurf is shown without his hat and is bald, suggesting that some Smurfs may have hair, but it remains uncertain.

2. Origin of the Hat: The Phrygian cap is over 2000 years old and was worn by ancient peoples in the Balkans. It symbolizes liberty and was famously used during the French Revolution as the "red cap of liberty."

3. Hat Confusion: The French revolutionaries mistakenly adopted the Phrygian cap when they meant to use the pileus, a brimless hat associated with freed slaves in ancient Rome. This confusion happened due to the lack of visual references at the time.

4. Summary: The Phrygian cap symbolizes freedom and was chosen by Peyo for the Smurfs, giving them a unique look while connecting to historical meanings of liberty.

Overall, the white hat enhances the Smurfs' identity and has a rich historical background.

No summary available.

Summary:

Europe is facing a significant privacy issue as it considers new legislation that would require internet service providers and messaging apps to scan user content for child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Critics, including over 600 security experts, argue that this "Chat Control" proposal would violate privacy rights and create unworkable systems that could wrongly accuse innocent people.

The legislation, pushed by Denmark, would mandate encryption backdoors, allowing government agencies access to private communications. Experts warn this could lead to security risks and privacy violations, comparing it to a "national security disaster."

There are concerns about the feasibility of detecting CSAM effectively, with predictions of high false positive rates. Some companies, like Signal, plan to resist compliance, citing constitutional privacy rights. The proposal faces opposition from member states, with some, like Germany, possibly seeking delays for further review. A vote on the legislation is expected next month.

Desktop-TUI Overview

Desktop-TUI is a text-based desktop environment that functions similarly to tmux, but without graphics. Here are the main features:

• It can read shortcut files that contain applications.
• It displays any application or command that outputs to the terminal.
• Users can move and resize windows and change how they are arranged.
• It manages application errors and crashes.
• Users can select a file or folder to use as an argument for commands.
• It currently uses ncurses for display but plans to switch to Crossterm for better color support once bugs are fixed.

How to Use Desktop-TUI

1. Installation: Use the command cargo install desktop-tui.
2. Compilation: Run cargo build or cargo build --release to compile the program.
3. Running the Application:
   • Use cargo run -- <shortcut_folder_path> or for the release version, cargo run --release -- <shortcut_folder_path>.

Shortcut File Example

A sample shortcut file (helix.toml) would look like this:

• Name: "Text editor"
• Command: "hx"
• Arguments: ["<FILE_PATH>"] (this will prompt for a file or folder path)
• Padding: [0, 0] (for inner window space)
• Position: 3 (on the action bar)

Additional Information

• The project is licensed under the MIT License.

The text discusses a problem in AI research called the "AI alignment crisis." It highlights that there is a growing issue with different AI alignment research not working together properly. This lack of coordination could lead to serious problems in the future.

Summary of the HackberryPi_CM5 Project

The HackberryPi_CM5 project is a portable computer that uses the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 (CM5) and repurposes keyboards from old Blackberry phones. It aims to help users learn about Linux and understand hardware and software architecture. The project shares tutorials and information through its repository.

Key Features:

• Dimensions: 143.5x91.8x17.6 mm; Weight: 306 grams (with battery and components).
• CPU: Quad-core Cortex-A76 at 2.4GHz.
• Display: 4" 720x720 multi-touch screen.
• Ports: 2 USB 3.0 ports and 1 HDMI port.
• Battery: 5000mAh LiPo battery with approximately 3-5 hours of usage.
• Materials: Aluminum body with a 3D-printed middle section.
• Keyboard Compatibility: Supports Blackberry Q10, Q20, or 9900 keyboards with a custom keymap.

Additional Information:

• The device has Bluetooth speakers and a slot for a 2242 NVME SSD.
• It includes an I2C port for connecting external sensors and has a built-in magnet for compatible power banks.
• Assembly requires installing the CM5 unit and a heatsink.

For more details, assembly guidelines, and to access 3D models of the device parts, visit the project repository. You can also join the Discord channel for questions and support.

Designer: Zitao, a master’s student at the Technical University of Dresden, Germany.

Where to Buy: Available from Elecrow.

Social Media: Follow on TikTok at Mr.Hackberry for updates.

JiraTUI Summary

JiraTUI is a command-line tool that simplifies task management for developers using Jira. It allows users to create, update, and track tasks directly from the terminal, helping them stay focused on coding.

Key Features:

• Search Tasks: Quickly find tasks by status, assignee, or priority, saving time and boosting productivity.
• Create Tasks: Easily set up new tasks with details like title and priority without navigating through interfaces.
• Update Tasks: Modify task details such as status and due dates from the command line to keep projects organized.
• Comments: Manage comments on tasks directly, enhancing team communication and keeping discussions organized.
• Manage Related Tasks: Link and unlink tasks to visualize dependencies and improve project management.
• JQL Search: Use Jira Query Language for advanced task filtering, allowing for precise project management.

Advantages:

• Configurable: Tailor commands and settings to fit individual workflows.
• Simplicity: A straightforward interface makes task management easy without unnecessary clicks.
• Speed: Fast command execution helps developers manage tasks quickly.
• Easy to Use: User-friendly design ensures accessibility for all skill levels.

Overall, JiraTUI is an efficient tool that enhances task management for developers, allowing them to focus on delivering quality work.

Summary:

Nano11 is a stripped-down version of Windows 11 that occupies only 2.8 GB of disk space. The installation media is even smaller at 2.2 GB. Created by developer NTDEV, Nano11 goes beyond a previous version called Tiny11 by removing many built-in features, such as Windows Update and Windows Defender, to achieve its minimal size.

While this version can boot to a desktop, it is not suitable for everyday use because it does not receive updates or support additional features. It is intended mainly for testing or use in virtual machines (VMs). Despite its limitations, Nano11 showcases how much bloat can be eliminated from Windows 11, highlighting that the extra features included by Microsoft are not strictly necessary.

Summary

Reproducibility is essential in science, but achieving consistent results with large language models (LLMs) is challenging. Users often receive different outputs for the same input due to the sampling process and the inherent nondeterminism in LLM inference, even when using deterministic sampling methods like greedy sampling.

The main cause of this nondeterminism is a combination of floating-point non-associativity and the execution order of concurrent processes (the "concurrency + floating point" hypothesis). Floating-point arithmetic can yield different results based on the order of operations, which is influenced by how concurrent threads finish their computations.

While some GPU kernels are nondeterministic, most operations in LLMs are actually deterministic. However, the overall system can appear nondeterministic because the results depend on the batch size and the load on the server, which vary unpredictably.

To achieve reproducible and deterministic LLM inference, kernels must be "batch-invariant," meaning their outputs do not change with different batch sizes. This is accomplished through specific strategies in operations like matrix multiplication, attention mechanisms, and normalization techniques.

The blog discusses techniques to ensure batch invariance in operations, highlighting the importance of consistent reduction strategies and proper handling of concurrent requests. It also presents experiments demonstrating that with these adjustments, LLMs can produce identical outputs across multiple completions.

In conclusion, understanding and addressing the sources of nondeterminism in LLM inference can lead to more reliable and reproducible results, enhancing the overall effectiveness of machine learning systems.

Intel's new E2200 "Mount Morgan" Infrastructure Processing Unit (IPU) aims to enhance cloud computing by offloading various infrastructure tasks from traditional server CPUs. This allows cloud providers to manage services like virtual machine provisioning without taxing CPU resources, while also providing better isolation between the provider's and customers' workloads.

Key features of the Mount Morgan IPU include:

• Improved Computing Power: It features 24 Arm Neoverse N2 cores, upgraded from 16 N1 cores, allowing it to handle more workloads efficiently.
• Enhanced Memory and Bandwidth: The memory subsystem has been upgraded to quad-channel LPDDR5-6400, potentially doubling the memory bandwidth compared to its predecessor.
• Advanced Acceleration Capabilities: It includes a Lookaside Crypto and Compression Engine for improved cryptographic and compression tasks, supporting various algorithms essential for cloud operations.
• Robust Networking Features: With 400 Gbps Ethernet throughput, it can efficiently manage cloud networking tasks and includes a programmable packet processing pipeline.
• Flexible PCIe Configuration: The IPU supports various operating modes, allowing it to function as a standalone server or connect to multiple hosts, enhancing its versatility.

Overall, Mount Morgan represents Intel's effort to address the growing demand for specialized cloud hardware, aiming to stay competitive in a market where companies are developing custom solutions. Its advanced architecture showcases Intel's engineering capabilities, even as they navigate challenges in their core CPU business.

Summary of "Rewriting Dataframes for MicroHs"

The author shares their journey of learning Haskell and creating projects to enhance their daily life. After learning Haskell, they decided to build a countdown timer for debate speeches. They initially faced challenges due to the limited capability of Haskell for GUI and mobile applications at that time.

The author discovered Frege, a Haskell dialect for the JVM, and engaged with its community, leading to the development of "froid," a library for Android development using Frege. However, interest in Frege dwindled, and the Haskell ecosystem faced challenges. The release of MicroHs, a Haskell version with smaller binaries, reignited the author's hope for a broader Haskell ecosystem.

The author aims to decouple their current project, a dataframe library, from GHC (the Glasgow Haskell Compiler) to ensure wider accessibility. A dataframe is defined as a collection of columns with labels, where types can evolve. The blog post outlines an API resembling the existing dataframe implementation, aiming for simplicity.

Key points of the implementation include:

• A basic dataframe structure with columns of types Int, String, or Double.
• The use of type classes for column operations.
• A focus on creating simple expressions for data manipulation, such as filtering and deriving new columns based on existing data.

The author discusses the challenges of implementing these features without advanced Haskell extensions like GADTs and type families, opting for a more basic approach. They demonstrate how to interpret expressions and perform operations on the dataframes.

Comparisons between MicroHs and GHC reveal MicroHs produces significantly smaller binaries (about 100 times smaller) but runs slower (5-10 times slower). The author concludes that it's feasible to create a functional dataframe library that works on both MicroHs and GHC, emphasizing the benefits of portability and the trade-offs involved.

David and Amanda from Recall.ai are launching their Desktop Recording SDK, which allows developers to record meeting data without using a bot. This is their biggest release in a while, and they are excited to share it.

The SDK can produce transcripts from meetings and is designed to simplify the process of recording both video conferences and in-person meetings. Unlike traditional methods, it doesn’t rely on a bot, making it a more streamlined option for developers.

Creating a reliable recording solution is challenging. Key difficulties include:

• Capturing speaker names accurately as they speak.
• Producing clean video recordings without showing the conferencing platform's interface.
• Ensuring the software runs efficiently on user machines.

Recall.ai was founded after David and Amanda faced these challenges in their previous startup, where a significant amount of engineering time was spent on recording features. Now, over 2,000 companies use their technology for various applications, including sales calls and internal tools.

They encountered various technical challenges and optimizations while building their infrastructure, which has helped them save costs and improve performance.

Users can try the SDK for free with $5 in credits, and pricing starts at $0.70 per hour of recording, with volume discounts available. All recorded data belongs to the customers, and Recall.ai prioritizes data privacy.

They welcome feedback from users.

The U.S. Treasury Department has included "digital content creators" like podcasters, social media influencers, and streamers in a new tax policy that allows certain tipped income to be deducted, which could significantly impact the creator economy. This policy also covers traditional tipping jobs such as bartenders and servers.

Creators may now rethink their income strategies, as tips from followers can be deducted, while subscription revenue cannot. However, there are limits: the deduction is capped at $25,000 per year and phases out at higher income levels. Additionally, some professions, particularly in health and performing arts, are excluded from this deduction.

This change may encourage more creators to seek tips and gifts from their audience, potentially leading platforms to highlight these options more. The recognition of digital creators reflects their growing influence in media and politics, possibly motivating more people to enter content creation.

Pontevedra, a city in Spain, has successfully tackled issues like air pollution and traffic by prioritizing residents over cars. Since Mayor Miguel Anxo Fernández Lores took office in 1999, the city has transformed from being filled with cars to a more pedestrian-friendly environment without banning private vehicles outright. The city has improved air quality and created safer streets by restricting vehicle access and focusing on public spaces.

In 2022, Spain mandated that cities with over 50,000 people establish Low Emission Zones to reduce emissions, but Pontevedra went further by declaring the entire urban area a reduced traffic zone. This shift has decreased the number of cars in the city, allowing for more community activities and public safety. The mayor emphasizes that pedestrians and cyclists come first in urban planning, followed by public transport, with private vehicles at the bottom of the priority list.

Pontevedra has seen a rise in walking and biking, with 90% of trips made by these means. The city has also achieved significant reductions in CO2 emissions and traffic accidents. Local businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic as people enjoy the walkable city.

Other European cities are also moving towards similar sustainable practices, but Pontevedra’s model stands out as an example of prioritizing people over cars, which Lores believes should inspire other cities to rethink their urban designs.

Summary of FFmpeg - The Ultimate Guide:

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of FFmpeg, a powerful multimedia framework used for processing audio and video. It covers essential concepts, installation steps, the history of FFmpeg, supported codecs and formats, and practical examples for media transcoding and editing.

Key Points:

1. What is FFmpeg?

   • FFmpeg is a leading tool for decoding, encoding, transcoding, streaming, and filtering all types of media files. It supports numerous formats and codecs.

2. Installing FFmpeg:

   • FFmpeg can be easily installed on Linux, Mac, and Windows. Many Linux distributions include it in their software repositories.

3. FFmpeg’s Strengths:

   • It can read and write most audio and video formats and offers extensive filtering capabilities. FFmpeg also supports hardware acceleration to speed up processing.

4. Basic Media Concepts:

   • Audio Terms: Key concepts include sampling rate (how often audio data is captured), bitrate (amount of data per second), and channels (number of audio streams).
   • Video Properties: Similar important properties exist for video, including resolution and codecs.

5. Using FFmpeg:

   • Users can manipulate media files through command-line instructions, which can be complex but are very powerful. Example commands demonstrate various functionalities like trimming, overlaying text, and changing audio.

6. Examples and Documentation:

   • The guide includes practical examples for converting audio and video, editing without re-encoding, and more. It encourages users to explore FFmpeg’s capabilities through hands-on practice.

This guide serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn and use FFmpeg for multimedia tasks.

At Hot Chips 2025, several companies presented their latest CPU developments. Key highlights include:

• Condor Computing introduced their new Cuzco core.
• PEZY showcased their upcoming SC4s chip.
• IBM discussed their Power11 chip, which is already available to customers.
• Intel presented their upcoming Xeon CPU called Clearwater Forest, based on E-Core architecture.

For more detailed information on each chip, links to articles are provided.

Apple's new Live Translation feature for AirPods will not be available to many users in the European Union (EU) due to strict regulations. This restriction applies to users who are in the EU and have an EU Apple Account. While Apple has not explained the reason for this limitation, it is likely related to EU laws such as the Artificial Intelligence Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which impose strict rules on speech and translation services.

The Live Translation feature allows users to communicate naturally while wearing AirPods, enabling real-time translations of conversations. It requires updated AirPods and an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone running iOS 26 or later. The feature supports translations between several languages, including English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish, with more languages expected to be added later.

It is unclear when the restriction for EU users will be lifted, and Apple has been contacted for further information.

The text discusses two main types of software engineering: pure and impure.

1. Pure Engineering: This type focuses on solving technical problems perfectly, often found in open-source projects. Engineers work independently, driven by an aesthetic sense and the desire for continuous improvement, similar to art or research.

2. Impure Engineering: This type is about solving real-world problems efficiently, typically within tech companies. Engineers work under deadlines and must meet the needs of others, often leading to compromises in quality.

The author notes that pure engineering was more valued in the past, especially during the hype-driven tech boom of the 2010s. However, with the current focus on profitability, tech companies need more impure engineering to deliver features quickly, making it essential for engineers to adapt to this reality.

The distinction between pure and impure engineering can lead to conflicts between different types of engineers, as each may underestimate the challenges faced by the other. Pure engineers often find it difficult to navigate the complexities of impure work, while impure engineers may struggle with the perfectionism required in pure projects.

The text also addresses the role of AI in software development. Pure engineers might find AI tools less useful, while impure engineers can benefit from them to enhance productivity.

In conclusion, both types of engineering are valuable but require different skills. The author advocates for recognizing the importance of impure engineering in the tech industry.

No summary available.

The author reflects on a recent visit to The Franklin Institute (TFI) with their son, contrasting it with their childhood experiences there. They express disappointment in the museum's heavy reliance on digital screens for exhibits, which they feel detracts from the hands-on, interactive experiences that made the museum special.

During the visit, the author and their family encountered many screens that offered video game-like interactions instead of real, tactile exhibits. While some hands-on activities still existed, they were poorly maintained and tucked away, leading to frustration. The author argues that museums should focus on providing genuine, tangible experiences rather than competing with digital devices. They believe that kids need real-world interactions and that TFI and other museums should prioritize physical exhibits that engage the senses, rather than relying on touchscreen technology. Ultimately, the author hopes for a return to the museum's original mission of offering hands-on learning opportunities.

This report is the first of two from a joint group of the International Mathematical Union and the International Council of Industrial and Applied Mathematics. It examines the current issues in publishing within the mathematical sciences. The second report will provide specific recommendations and best practices for researchers and policymakers. It will also address how to identify and prevent manipulation of research evaluation metrics, helping the community take control of how research is assessed.

Akshay and Jake created a tool called Haystack to simplify reading pull requests (PRs). Here are the main features of Haystack:

• Clear Narrative: Changes are presented in a logical order with easy-to-understand explanations, rather than just a list of differences.
• Focused Attention: Routine changes are grouped together, allowing reviewers to concentrate on more important aspects like design and correctness.
• Full Context: Haystack shows how new or modified functions and variables are used throughout the entire codebase, not just in the immediate changes.

They designed Haystack to help reviewers spend less time deciphering code and more time providing valuable feedback. Originally, Haystack started as an experiment with visualizing code changes but evolved into a tool that addresses the challenges of understanding complex codebases, especially in the age of AI.

For a demo, you can visit haystackeditor.com/review. They welcome any feedback or suggestions!

The author discusses a serious security vulnerability in Microsoft’s Active Directory (AD) known as "Kerberoasting." This flaw has been around for over a decade and was recently highlighted in a ransomware attack on Ascension Health in May 2024.

Active Directory is crucial for managing access to resources in Windows networks. It uses the Kerberos protocol for authentication, which has outdated cryptography from the late 1980s and 1990s. One major issue is that some network services may use weak, human-generated passwords instead of strong, randomly generated keys. This makes it easy for attackers to crack the encrypted tickets used for authentication, allowing them to gain unauthorized access to critical services.

While modern encryption methods like AES are used, many systems still fall back on older, less secure methods like RC4 if not properly configured. This makes it significantly easier for attackers to guess passwords and launch attacks.

Microsoft has not effectively addressed these vulnerabilities, often leaving administrators to manage security on their own. Recommendations for improving security are weak and do not force upgrades or eliminate outdated options, which poses ongoing risks to organizations. The author argues that Microsoft needs to take stronger actions to ensure outdated and insecure configurations are phased out.

No summary available.

Kristian Polso shares his experience building his own Content Delivery Network (CDN) using Varnish and Nginx after facing frustrations with commercial CDN services like BlazingCDN and Bunny. He wanted more control over his websites, potential cost savings, and the opportunity to learn about the software involved.

He chose Leaseweb for hosting due to its affordable pricing and global server network, prioritizing fast storage for better caching performance. For the operating system, he used Debian and selected Nginx for the web server, while Varnish was used for caching.

Initially, setting up the system went smoothly, but he encountered challenges with SSL certificates, which he resolved using a "push strategy" to distribute certificates across his servers. For DNS, he opted for Bunny's DNS service for geolocation-based routing, despite wanting to avoid reliance on a commercial provider.

After operating his CDN for a while, he noted improved performance with a cache hit rate of around 55%. While it wasn't significantly cheaper than commercial services, it provided better user experience and customization options. In the future, he plans to expand his server locations, host his own DNS, and enhance security measures.

The author created a simple script to receive fake phone calls and avoid boring situations. They purchased a virtual phone number from Twilio and saved it as a contact. When they feel uncomfortable, they press an "ESCAPE" button on their phone, which sends a request to a server that triggers a real call after a minute. The call plays a pre-recorded audio, allowing the author to excuse themselves by saying they're receiving a call. This small project has helped them many times.

The tz database is a collection of standardized timezone data used globally to manage timezone conversions. It is included in the tzdata package, which can be installed in systems like Docker. This package contains tools such as zic, for compiling timezone info, and zdump, for reading timezone data.

Timezone rules and changes are documented in the tz database, which includes three main parts: rules, zones, and links. For example, rules specify when to adjust time for Daylight Saving, while zones define geographic time zones based on UTC offsets.

You can create custom time zones using a simple configuration file. An example is shown with a fictional timezone for Konoha from Naruto, which can be set to follow specific rules for time adjustments. After setting up, you can verify the timezone settings using commands to display the current date and time in that timezone.

The tz database is complex but offers valuable information on how timezones work. For a deeper understanding, you can explore the database's documentation.

The author helps their elderly parents use a 5G connection in a rural area while managing the network from abroad. They found a good 5G router that supports external antennas but need to use either OpenVPN or WireGuard for access. WireGuard is preferred because it's lightweight, but it requires manual key management for each device, which can be cumbersome and doesn't work well with other VPNs.

To simplify access, the author uses Tailscale for easy home network access, even with some devices behind CGNAT. They created a Docker container to connect WireGuard to Tailscale, but it took more effort than expected to set up routing, firewall settings, and DNS resolution. Eventually, they succeeded in making the setup stable and now have the WireGuard router appear as a regular Tailscale node in their network.

Summary of Semantic Line Breaks

What are Semantic Line Breaks? Semantic Line Breaks are guidelines for using line breaks in text to organize thoughts clearly without changing how the text appears when published. They help writers, editors, and readers work with text more easily.

Why Use Them?

1. For Writers: They help reflect the logical structure of ideas.
2. For Editors: They make it easier to spot mistakes and clarify text.
3. For Readers: They are invisible in the final output but make the text easier to read in source form.

Key Guidelines:

• Line breaks should follow sentences (punctuated by periods, exclamation marks, or question marks).
• They can also be placed after independent clauses and before lists to improve readability.
• They should not change the final output or the intended meaning of the text.
• A maximum line length of 80 characters is recommended.

Supported Markup Languages: Semantic Line Breaks are compatible with several lightweight markup languages, including Markdown, reStructuredText, and AsciiDoc.

Tips for Implementation:

• Read text aloud to find good places for breaks.
• Use breaks gradually in existing documents as you edit or add new content.
• For better viewing of changes in version control systems like Git, use the --word-diff option.

Conclusion: The Semantic Line Breaks specification, created by Mattt, aims to improve clarity in technical writing by following best practices for text organization.

The author recently started using Tarsnap, a backup service designed for those who prioritize security. Created by Dr. Colin Percival, Tarsnap is known for its user-friendly command-line tool that simplifies the backup process. The service operates on a prepaid model, allowing users to maintain anonymity by destroying their key files when they choose to stop using it. The author describes Tarsnap as "cozy" due to its thoughtful design and usability.

They also mention a cost estimator tool for Tarsnap, noting that backing up a small amount of important data can be very affordable, lasting for over 1,000 years with a minimal initial investment. The author wishes for the option to use a hardware key instead of a key file but acknowledges that the creator likely has valid reasons for any limitations. Overall, they express high praise for Tarsnap as an excellent product for digital backup.

The text provides a link to a GitHub project called "animal-crossing-llm-mod." This project likely involves modifications related to "Animal Crossing" and may utilize large language models (LLMs). The link directs readers to more information about the project.

No summary available.

Dotter Summary

Dotter is a tool designed to manage and template dotfiles, which are configuration files stored in your home directory. It addresses common issues with traditional methods of managing dotfiles, such as:

• Difficulty tracking the origin of many dotfiles.
• Labor-intensive setup on new machines.
• Inability to customize configurations for different devices.

Installation:

• Mac: Use Homebrew: brew install dotter
• Arch Linux: Install via AUR packages (dotter-rs-bin, dotter-rs, dotter-rs-git).
• Windows: Use Scoop: scoop install dotter
• Others: Download the binary from the latest release or install via Rustup with cargo install dotter.

Usage: Run Dotter from your repository to deploy files to their designated locations. You can also manage configurations using various command-line options, such as deploying, undeploying, or initializing settings.

Commands include:

• deploy: Deploy files.
• undeploy: Remove deployed files.
• init: Set up configuration files.
• watch: Monitor for changes and deploy automatically.

Options include:

• Specify global/local config locations.
• Perform a dry run to see what would happen without making changes.
• Control verbosity of output.

Contributions: Contributions are welcome, and you can support development through donations via PayPal.

For more details, check the Dotter wiki for setup and configuration guidance.

This article introduces the concept of multiple dispatch, a programming technique that allows method calls to be determined by the runtime types of multiple objects, rather than just one. It begins by explaining single dispatch, commonly used in languages like C++ and Java, where a method call depends on the type of a single object. The article uses C++ to demonstrate multiple dispatch, even though C++ does not support it natively.

Key points include:

1. Polymorphism Types: The article differentiates between single dispatch (based on one object's type) and multiple dispatch (based on multiple objects' types), highlighting its usefulness in scenarios where operations involve multiple classes.

2. Practical Examples: It illustrates multiple dispatch with examples like shape intersections, where different combinations of shapes require different intersection methods. The need for a clean way to handle these combinations indicates when multiple dispatch is beneficial.

3. C++ Challenges: The article discusses the limitations of C++ in implementing multiple dispatch, particularly noting how traditional function overloading does not handle dynamic types effectively.

4. Visitor Pattern: One possible solution is the visitor pattern, which allows for double dispatch by using virtual functions. However, this approach is seen as intrusive and requires modifications to base classes whenever new shapes are added, complicating maintenance.

5. Brute-Force Method: Another approach is using if-else statements for dispatching, which avoids the intrusiveness but leads to lengthy and hard-to-maintain code.

6. Future Solutions: The article mentions an experimental proposal for C++ that would allow for virtual function arguments, making implementing multiple dispatch simpler and more efficient.

The series will continue to explore multiple dispatch in other programming languages, highlighting different implementations and their trade-offs.

No summary available.

The text appears to be CSS code that defines the styling for a website. Here are the key points simplified:

1. Background Color: The header sections have a blue background (#11809F).
2. Borders: There are no bottom borders on certain header elements.
3. Text Color: Links and navigation text in the header are white.
4. Hover Effects: When hovered over, some elements still keep their white text color.
5. Application Links: Specific links in the application section have white borders and text, with changes to colors when expanded or interacted with.
6. New Section: New items have a white background with blue text.
7. Navigation Customization: Custom navigation links change colors based on user interaction, with white text and backgrounds.

Overall, the stylesheet focuses on creating a consistent color scheme and interaction effects for various elements on the site.

Summary of "Picat: A Logic-based Multi-paradigm Language"

Picat is a versatile programming language that integrates various programming styles, including logic programming, imperative programming, constraint programming, functional programming, tabling, and planning. Developed by Neng-Fa Zhou and Jonathan Fruhman, Picat was first released in 2014, with ongoing updates.

Key features of Picat include:

1. Multi-paradigm Support: It combines aspects from different programming paradigms, making it flexible for various tasks.
2. Constraint Programming (CP): Picat offers strong support for CP, allowing users to solve problems with constraints effectively. Examples include puzzles like SEND+MORE=MONEY and the N-Queens problem.
3. Tabling: This feature caches results to improve efficiency, particularly useful for recursive functions like Fibonacci.
4. Imperative Programming: Picat includes loops and allows for straightforward variable management within them, enhancing readability.
5. Pattern Matching: Similar to functional languages, Picat employs a unique pattern matching syntax that differs from traditional Prolog.
6. Nondeterminism: Picat supports nondeterminism with backtracking, making it easier to define complex predicates.
7. Planning Module: The language includes a planner for solving planning problems efficiently, often faster than traditional CP or SAT solvers.
8. Extensive Functionality: Picat also features maps (hash tables), debugging tools, and interfaces for various external systems.

Overall, the author enjoys using Picat for its diverse capabilities and its alignment with their programming mindset. For more information and code examples, users can visit the author's GitHub repository or Picat’s official website.

No summary available.

The author is considering moving their personal projects away from GitHub to host them independently. They currently use GitLab and CodeBerg but want more control and to avoid potential issues like slow performance or unwanted features. They are experimenting with a self-hosted Git service called Gitea, managed through PikaPod for a small monthly fee.

Key points of concern include:

1. Network Effects: GitHub has a massive user base, making it easy for developers to collaborate. The author finds it frustrating that users need to create accounts on multiple platforms to contribute, though Gitea does offer some single-sign-on options.

2. Forking Limitations: Users can only fork projects on the author's server, making it difficult to collaborate with others on different platforms. Current tools don’t adequately support modern collaboration needs.

3. Discoverability: Moving projects off GitHub means they will be harder to find, as GitHub is the primary resource for discovering code.

4. Administrative Tasks: While PikaPod handles hosting, the author still faces challenges in configuring Gitea and managing potential spam attacks.

5. Sponsorship Issues: Unlike GitHub, Gitea does not offer easy sponsorship options, making it less convenient for users to support the author financially.

The author's plan is to keep popular repos on GitHub for visibility and sponsorship while moving smaller projects to their new self-hosted service. They are also looking for a more suitable hosted platform, like Forgejo, that allows custom subdomains at a reasonable price.

Summary of iPhone Air Press Release (September 9, 2025)

Apple has launched the iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever at just 5.6 mm thick. It features a lightweight yet strong titanium design, advanced camera systems, and impressive all-day battery life. Key highlights include:

• Design: The iPhone Air is made from grade 5 titanium and has a sleek, high-gloss finish. It is equipped with Ceramic Shield 2, offering enhanced scratch resistance and durability.
• Display: It boasts a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology for smooth visuals and high outdoor brightness.
• Camera: The phone features a 48MP Fusion Main camera and a new 18MP Center Stage front camera that enhances selfies and video calls.
• Performance: Powered by the A19 Pro chip and other advanced Apple silicon, it delivers exceptional performance and energy efficiency.
• Battery: The iPhone Air offers remarkable battery life supported by software optimizations and an Adaptive Power Mode.
• eSIM: It uses an eSIM-only design for better flexibility and security.
• iOS 26: The device runs on iOS 26, featuring new design elements and Apple Intelligence capabilities.

The iPhone Air will be available for pre-order starting September 12, 2025, and will officially launch on September 19, 2025. It comes in four colors: space black, cloud white, light gold, and sky blue, starting at $999.

Apple emphasizes its commitment to sustainability, with the iPhone Air made from 35% recycled materials. The company aims to be carbon neutral by 2030.

When you try to visit google.com using the Lynx browser, you will see a message saying that your browser is no longer supported. It suggests that you should upgrade to a newer version to continue searching.

The article defends the CSV (Comma Separated Values) format against claims that it is outdated and inferior to newer formats like Parquet or JSON. Here are the key points:

1. Simplicity: CSV is straightforward to understand and use—values are separated by commas and rows by new lines. This simplicity makes it easy for anyone, even beginners, to create and manipulate.

2. No Ownership: CSV is not owned by anyone and lacks a strict specification, making it an open and universally accepted format.

3. Text Format: Being plain text, CSV files can be read and edited using any text editor, making them accessible to people without special software.

4. Streamable: CSV can be processed row by row with minimal memory, allowing efficient handling of large datasets, unlike some column-oriented formats.

5. Easy Appending: Adding new rows to a CSV file is simple and efficient, while other formats may complicate this process.

6. Dynamic Typing: CSV allows flexibility in how data types are interpreted, which can be beneficial across different programming languages.

7. Conciseness: CSV is more compact than formats like JSON or XML, with less repetition, making it efficient for storage.

8. Reversibility: A unique feature of CSV is that a reversed CSV file is still valid, allowing easy access to the last rows without reading the entire file.

9. Value in Criticism: The ongoing criticism of CSV suggests it is still relevant and effective in many scenarios.

Overall, the article highlights that while CSV is not perfect, it has many strengths that keep it relevant in data handling despite newer formats.

Zoox has officially launched its robotaxi service in Las Vegas on September 10, 2025. This is the first fully autonomous ride-hailing service using a specially designed robotaxi. Rides are currently free and can be booked through the Zoox app, available on iOS and Android.

The CEO of Zoox, Aicha Evans, expressed excitement about this launch, highlighting Las Vegas as the perfect location due to its vibrant atmosphere and popularity among visitors. Riders can choose from various destinations on the Las Vegas Strip, with plans to add more locations over time.

The service is designed to be user-friendly, with dedicated pickup and drop-off zones and on-site support staff to assist riders. The app provides helpful features like estimated pickup times and vehicle information.

Zoox's approach has been unique, focusing on building a new kind of vehicle from scratch rather than modifying existing ones. After over a decade of development, they are excited to share their vision of a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.

In addition to the Las Vegas launch, riders can also join a waitlist for future service in San Francisco.

Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a presentation at Utah Valley University on September 11, 2025. The university is closed until Monday, and classes and events have been suspended. Vigils are being held nationwide in his honor, reflecting widespread shock and grief over his death.

Reactions have poured in from various political figures. Former President Trump blamed the "radical left" for creating an environment of violence, while Utah's governor labeled the incident a "political assassination." There is an ongoing investigation into the shooting, with authorities confirming that two people initially detained have no connection to the crime. The shooter is still at large, believed to have fired from a nearby building.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people fled after the gunshot. Kirk was known for promoting conservative values and had many supporters, including prominent political figures. His death has sparked discussions about rising political violence in the U.S.

Self-evolving Large Language Models (LLMs) aim to achieve super-intelligence by learning and improving on their own. Currently, these models depend on a lot of human-created tasks and labels, which limits their progress. To address this, a new framework called R-Zero has been developed. R-Zero creates its own training data from scratch using two models: a Challenger and a Solver. The Challenger creates tasks that are just beyond the Solver's abilities, while the Solver works to solve these tasks. This interaction helps both models improve without needing pre-made tasks or labels. R-Zero has shown significant improvements in reasoning skills, enhancing performance on math and general reasoning tests for different LLMs.

Summary: Knowledge and Memory

In a recent experience, the author asked an AI language model named Claude about a Ruby library, but Claude provided incorrect information by hallucinating three non-existent methods. This led the author to reflect on the differences between human memory and AI memory.

The author believes that their knowledge is tied to personal experiences and learning, which gives them a solid understanding of facts. They can recall the context in which they learned things, unlike Claude, which lacks true memory and experiences.

While AI models have vast amounts of encoded information, this is more like genetic inheritance than personal memory. Some engineers hope that the context window in language models could serve as a type of memory, but the author compares it to finding random notes in a hotel room without remembering writing them, highlighting the disorientation that comes with it.

The author concludes that real memory requires time, experiences, and a connection to life. They predict that the issue of AI hallucinations will persist until a new kind of AI model can engage with the world in a meaningful way.

The article discusses the evolution of merge queues in software development, highlighting their importance in maintaining stable codebases amid multiple developers merging changes.

Key points include:

1. Early Origins: The concept of merge queues began over two decades ago to keep the main branch of code functional, starting with Ben Elliston's "Not Rocket Science Rule." This was later implemented by Graydon Hoare through a bot named Bors for the Rust programming language to automate testing before merging.

2. Development of Tools: Various tools emerged to address the need for merge automation, including:

   • Homu: An extension of Bors, designed to work across different programming languages and projects.
   • Bors-NG: A modern version of Bors, popular for its user-friendly interface and open-source nature.
   • Other tools like Bulldozer, Mergify, and Kodiak also aimed to automate the merging process and improve efficiency.

3. Industry Adoption: Major companies like Uber, Shopify, and Strava created their own internal merge queue systems to manage merging effectively in large codebases.

4. Mainstream Integration: GitHub and GitLab eventually recognized the value of merge queues, integrating them as essential features in their platforms. GitHub's Merge Queue was officially released in 2023, offering a built-in solution for managing pull requests.

5. Conclusion: Merge queues have transitioned from niche scripts created by individual developers to standard practices in software development. They are critical for ensuring code quality and enabling faster integration without the risk of breaking the main branch.

Overall, the evolution of merge queues reflects a growing demand for automation and efficiency in software development workflows.

Summary of Debugging with a Debugger

Many developers prefer print logging over using debuggers for various reasons, such as difficulty in setup and limitations in remote environments. However, debuggers offer several advantages that print debugging cannot match:

1. View the Call Stack: Debuggers allow you to see all the previous function calls and inspect their states, helping you understand how the program reached a certain point.

2. Dynamic Expression Evaluation: You can evaluate expressions and modify the program's state in real time, which is like having a built-in interactive console.

3. Catch Exceptions at the Source: Debuggers can stop execution right when an exception is thrown, allowing you to investigate the exact situation that caused it.

4. Alter Execution Flow: You can change variables and control program execution without changing the code itself, which reduces the risk of accidental code changes.

5. Standardized Debug Configuration: Using common debug configuration files in development environments helps maintain a consistent setup for all team members, making onboarding easier.

In conclusion, while print debugging is convenient, debuggers provide powerful tools that enhance the debugging process and improve productivity.

Summary: Distributing Your CLI Scripts via Homebrew

Homebrew is a popular tool for managing command-line applications, but many developers, including the author, find it confusing to publish their own command-line interfaces (CLIs) through it. This guide outlines the steps to simplify the process.

Key Points:

1. Homebrew Terminology:

   • Formula: Package definition.
   • Tap: Git repository for formulas.
   • Cask: For installing GUI applications.
   • Bottle: Pre-built binary packages.
   • Cellar: Directory for installed formulas.
   • Keg: Directory for each installed formula.

2. Publishing Process:

   • Create your CLI and push it to GitHub.
   • Set up a Homebrew tap (a repository for your formulas).
   • Create a Homebrew formula that points to your CLI's GitHub release.

3. Creating a Tap:

   • Use the command brew tap-new your_username/homebrew-tap to create a new tap.
   • Push the generated files to your GitHub repository.

4. Creating a Formula:

   • Use brew create with your GitHub tarball link to generate a formula.
   • Edit the formula to ensure it works correctly, using tools like ChatGPT for troubleshooting.

5. Updating the Formula:

   • Every time you release a new version of your CLI, you’ll need to manually update the formula’s URL and hash. To automate this, you can set up a GitHub workflow that updates your tap automatically when you push new tags.

6. Final Thoughts:

   • Once you’ve set up your tap and a working formula, publishing new CLIs becomes much easier.
   • The author expresses hope to publish more formulas in the future, now that they understand the process.

This guide aims to make it easier to share your own command-line tools with Homebrew users.

No summary available.

Modos has introduced a new open-source e-paper display that features a refresh rate of 75 Hertz, which is similar to that of basic LCD screens. This development marks a significant advancement in e-paper technology.

The article discusses a long-standing scam that suggests people no longer need to remember things due to the availability of search engines and AI. The author argues that this belief is harmful, as it leads to a decline in critical thinking and the ability to evaluate information effectively.

Key points include:

1. Need for Prior Knowledge: To make effective use of online resources, individuals must have a strong foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills.

2. Superficial Engagement: Many "digital natives" tend to engage with information on a surface level, which reduces their ability to form deep, meaningful knowledge.

3. Emotional Connection: Deep thinking requires emotional engagement; without it, knowledge becomes shallow and easily forgettable.

4. Building Knowledge: True understanding and cognitive ability come from actively building knowledge in your brain, not from relying solely on external tools.

5. Importance of Memory: The premise that one doesn't need to remember anything is misleading; remembering is essential for effective knowledge work.

In conclusion, the author emphasizes the importance of training the mind and engaging deeply with information to enhance cognitive skills and knowledge retention.

The article discusses "My Sharona," a hit song by The Knack from 1979. It highlights the impressive guitar solo by lead guitarist Berton Averre, which is noted for its creativity and energy, lasting a minute and a half in the full version of the song. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks and is characterized by its catchy rhythm and powerful instrumentation. Despite its catchy pop appeal, the song's lyrics have a sleazy undertone. The review suggests that the song remains a fun rock classic, with an emphasis on the standout guitar work.

Bending Spoons has agreed to buy Vimeo for $1.38 billion in an all-cash deal, taking the company private. Vimeo shareholders will receive $7.85 per share, which is a significant premium over its recent stock price. This move comes as Vimeo has shifted focus from competing with platforms like YouTube to serving business clients. Bending Spoons, based in Milan, has a history of acquiring companies, including Filmic and WeTransfer. Both companies' leaders express confidence in the acquisition, highlighting plans for future growth and investment in Vimeo's offerings. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending necessary approvals.

No summary available.

As of September 2025, about 170 million Americans spend an hour daily on TikTok, which has transformed how we consume media by focusing on short, engaging videos. Unlike previous platforms, TikTok’s algorithm quickly adapts to users' preferences based on micro-behaviors, allowing for a highly personalized experience. This shift has influenced various sectors, including news, education, and entertainment, where content is often delivered in brief bursts rather than longer formats.

TikTok's approach encourages creators to specialize in narrow topics, optimizing their content for algorithmic success. This has led to a new norm in digital content, prioritizing immediate satisfaction and personalized experiences. However, this efficiency comes at the cost of losing deeper engagement with ideas and the ability to be bored or discover new interests. Users often don't realize that their habits help train the algorithm, raising questions about whether they are consciously making these trade-offs.

Bottlefire allows users to create single-executable microVMs from Docker images. These microVMs are standalone Linux executables that use Firecracker technology and can be launched automatically.

You can run a Docker image using a simple command:

$ curl -fL https://bottlefire.dev/run/debian:trixie | sh

For enhanced security, you can use Landlock to sandbox your application:

$ curl -fL https://bottlefire.dev/run/debian:trixie | landrun --best-effort --unrestricted-network ...

You can also download the executable directly:

$ curl -fL -o app https://images.bottlefire.dev/debian:trixie?arch=linux/amd64
$ chmod +x ./app && ./app

Bottlefire's microVMs are created using an open-source tool called bake. They support easy networking, port mapping, and directory sharing, working on modern Linux platforms without needing root access.

Pricing includes a free tier for official and popular public images. A Pro subscription costs $5/month for access to public and private images, with options for higher limits if needed. Sponsorships start at $50/month for sharing images via Bottlefire.

No summary available.

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ASML has announced a strategic partnership with Mistral AI. This collaboration aims to enhance technological advancements in the field of artificial intelligence. The partnership will focus on developing innovative solutions that leverage AI capabilities. More details can be found in the full press release on ASML's website.

Summary of Flame Fractals:

Flame fractals are complex and visually stunning images created using generative systems. They were developed by Scott Draves in 1992, building on earlier fractal concepts by John E Hutchinson from 1981. There is a vibrant community of fractal artists who use various software to create these artworks.

One interesting example of a flame fractal is "Terrarium," a small demo that showcases the beauty of these fractals. The underlying algorithm is relatively straightforward: it involves creating two images (a density map and a display image), applying random transformations to points, and accumulating data in the density map.

Key differences between flame fractals and other fractal methods include unique tonemapping and coloring techniques. The transformations used in flame fractals can be arbitrary and often involve affine transformations and sphere inversion, which help maintain certain properties like angle preservation.

In terms of rendering, flame fractals are colored by mapping each particle to a color palette and processed with a log-density function. Depth of field and motion blur effects can also enhance the visual appeal of these fractals.

The article encourages experimentation with these techniques and showcases the author's own artworks.

No summary available.

Christie’s has closed its digital art department, integrating digital art sales into its contemporary art category. This decision comes amid a downturn in the art market and a significant drop in digital art trading since its peak in 2021. Two staff members, including the vice president of digital art, were let go, while one specialist will remain.

Despite a slight decline in overall fine art sales, the drop in NFT trading has been drastic, falling from almost $3 billion in 2021 to around $197 million in 2024. Other auction houses, like Sotheby’s, have also downsized their digital art teams. Some experts see Christie’s move as a sign that the digital art market is maturing, with NFTs transitioning from collectibles to serious art.

Christie’s has played a pivotal role in bringing digital art to mainstream attention, starting with its sale of an A.I.-generated portrait in 2018 and a record-breaking $69 million sale of Beeple's artwork in 2021.

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The text discusses the concept of appearance. It highlights how appearance refers to the way someone or something looks, including physical features, clothing, and overall presentation. People often form first impressions based on appearance, which can influence their perceptions and judgments. The text may also touch on the importance of maintaining a positive appearance in various social and professional contexts.

The article discusses the complexities and misconceptions surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) through the lens of Melanie Mitchell's four foundational fallacies. These fallacies highlight common misunderstandings that can hinder progress in AI development.

1. The Illusion of a Smooth Continuum: Many believe that advancements in narrow AI will lead directly to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). However, this belief overlooks the significant challenges, like the commonsense knowledge problem, that still exist.

2. The Paradox of Difficulty: People often assume that tasks difficult for humans are equally hard for machines, but this is not true. For example, AI can excel in games like Go while struggling with real-world tasks.

3. The Seduction of Wishful Mnemonics: Using anthropomorphic language to describe AI capabilities can mislead both the public and researchers about what AI systems can truly do, potentially leading to misplaced trust.

4. The Myth of the Disembodied Mind: The idea that intelligence can exist separately from a physical body is challenged by the notion of embodied cognition, which argues that intelligence is deeply connected to physical interaction with the world.

The article emphasizes that these fallacies create dangerous trade-offs in AI development, such as prioritizing hype over responsible innovation and risking public trust in AI technologies. The author advocates for a balanced approach that combines the strengths of both the cognitive science perspective and the computational scaling approach to create safer, more effective AI systems.

Summary of "Deliberate Abstraction"

The article discusses the concept of modules in programming, highlighting that they help create software families without needing to rewrite existing code by hiding design decisions. It emphasizes that good products don't rely on specific features; rather, their functionality emerges from the interactions of various components.

Key Points:

1. Emergent Functionality: Successful products, like cars and watches, don't have standalone functional components; their capabilities arise from how parts work together.

2. Common Design Mistakes: Many programmers mistakenly focus on creating features based on specifications, resulting in inflexible designs that don't adapt well to changing requirements.

3. Flowchart-based Design: This approach, which translates tasks into a sequence of steps, can be appealing but locks in design decisions too early and fails to accommodate changes.

4. User Requirements Change: Basing design on user requirements is problematic since these are often vague and likely to change over time.

5. Inside-out Design: The article promotes an "inside-out" design approach, which starts with a general core of functionality and gradually builds out to meet user needs while keeping interfaces flexible.

6. Avoiding Over-validation: Early attempts to create strict validation can hinder flexibility. Instead, the core design should remain general, with specific validations added later as needed.

7. Modularization: Effective modularization involves focusing on fundamental principles rather than features, allowing for easier adaptation and more robust software.

8. Dangers of Abstraction: While abstractions can simplify complex tasks, they can also complicate simple concepts if misused.

The article concludes by illustrating the inside-out design approach with a card game example, showing how starting from a general core can lead to flexible and adaptable software.

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NASA's recent research suggests that Saturn's moon Titan may have conditions that allow for the formation of primitive cell-like structures called vesicles in its cold lakes of methane and ethane. These vesicles are tiny bubble-like compartments that could represent early steps toward life.

Unlike Earth, where liquid water is crucial for life, Titan's lakes contain hydrocarbons. Scientists believe that similar processes to those that may have occurred on early Earth could happen on Titan, potentially leading to the creation of molecules necessary for life.

The study indicates that amphiphiles—molecules with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic parts—can spontaneously form vesicles in Titan's lakes under specific conditions. This process might involve droplets that splash into the lakes and mix with these molecules, creating vesicles that could evolve into primitive protocells.

Understanding these potential vesicle formations could enhance our knowledge of how life might form in different environments. NASA’s upcoming Dragonfly mission will further explore Titan's surface and its habitability, even though it won't directly search for these vesicles.

In summary, Titan could provide valuable insights into the origins of life, with its unique chemistry and environment fostering the development of primitive cellular structures.

No summary available.

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million to settle claims that its voice assistant, Siri, eavesdropped on users during private conversations. This settlement comes from a lawsuit filed in 2021 by a California resident who claimed that Siri recorded and shared private talks with third-party companies for targeted advertising.

Consumers who owned Siri-enabled devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks, between September 17, 2014, and December 31, 2024, may be eligible to file a claim. Each eligible device could yield up to $20, with a maximum payout of $100 for up to five devices.

To file a claim, consumers can visit the settlement website, using a claim ID found in emails or postcards sent to some users. Those who did not receive notifications can still submit a claim by providing their details and proof of device ownership. The deadline for claims is July 2, 2025.

Payments will be processed after the settlement is finalized on August 1, 2025, barring any appeals. Claimants can choose to receive payments via check, e-check, or direct deposit.

No summary available.