1.
Kaiju – General purpose 3D/2D game engine in Go and Vulkan with built in editor
(Kaiju – General purpose 3D/2D game engine in Go and Vulkan with built in editor)

No summary available.

Author: discomrobertul8 | Score: 39

2.
New Pebble Device
(New Pebble Device)

Summary of Pebble Index 01

Introducing Pebble Index 01, a small ring designed to help you remember your ideas and reminders easily. By holding a button and speaking into a microphone, your thoughts are recorded and sent to your phone for later access.

Key Features:

  • Compact Design: Similar in size to a wedding band, available in three colors, made from durable stainless steel, and water-resistant.
  • Long Battery Life: The battery lasts for years without needing to be charged.
  • Privacy Focused: It only records when the button is pressed, and all data is processed locally on your phone.
  • Customizable: Users can set the ring to perform different actions based on button clicks or voice commands, making it versatile for various tasks.

Pricing and Availability:

  • Pre-order for $75 (price increases to $99 after March 2026). Ships worldwide.

Additional Information:

  • It works with both iPhone and Android, and recordings can be accessed even if the phone is out of range.
  • The device is designed to be discreet and not distracting, focusing solely on capturing thoughts.
  • Completely secure, with no subscription fees required.

This innovative tool aims to change how you capture and remember your thoughts, making it easier to stay organized in a busy life.

Author: freshrap6 | Score: 126

3.
LLM from scratch, part 28 – training a base model from scratch on an RTX 3090
(LLM from scratch, part 28 – training a base model from scratch on an RTX 3090)

Giles' blog post discusses his experience of training a large language model (LLM) based on GPT-2 architecture using his own hardware, specifically an RTX 3090 GPU. Here are the key points from the post:

  1. Training Experiment: Giles aimed to train a base model using the framework outlined in Sebastian Raschka's book "Build a Large Language Model (from Scratch)". He experimented with training a model of around 163 million parameters using datasets from Hugging Face.

  2. Model Training: He successfully trained a GPT-2 small model with a dataset from FineWeb, achieving results comparable to the original GPT-2 but noted that his model performed slightly worse than OpenAI's version in terms of validation loss and perplexity.

  3. Challenges Faced: Giles faced various challenges, including memory management, the choice of hyperparameters, and the need for effective validation during training. He also had to consider whether to use techniques like dropout and weight tying which differ from modern training practices.

  4. Data Quality and Quantity: The quality of the training dataset is crucial, and while his dataset was curated, it was much smaller compared to OpenAI's. He speculated that OpenAI's larger dataset and longer training duration contributed to their model's superior performance.

  5. Performance Comparison: After multiple training runs, he found that his model's performance (measured by loss and scoring against a validation set) did not surpass OpenAI's baseline. This led him to consider factors like the number of training epochs, data quality, and architectural choices.

  6. Future Steps: Giles expressed a desire to further explore training models on cloud platforms for potentially better resources and efficiency. He also indicated interest in continuing experiments to refine his model and address the performance gaps.

In conclusion, while Giles successfully trained a LLM on his own hardware, he recognized the limitations compared to established models from larger organizations like OpenAI, prompting further exploration and experimentation.

Author: gpjt | Score: 305

4.
The Joy of Playing Grandia, on Sega Saturn
(The Joy of Playing Grandia, on Sega Saturn)

Summary of "The Joy of Playing Grandia on SEGA Saturn"

The article discusses the resurgence of interest in the SEGA Saturn, particularly due to the translation of previously Japanese-exclusive games. One notable title is Grandia, released in 1997, which was highly anticipated but never made it to Western markets during its initial run.

Grandia follows the journey of a young boy named Justin, who dreams of adventure and is joined by his friend Sue. The game features a rich story, vibrant characters, and engaging gameplay set in a beautifully designed 3D world. Players explore towns for quests and engage in strategic turn-based combat that allows for various actions and combinations.

The graphics for the time were impressive, using the Saturn's hardware effectively, though there are moments of lag. The sound design, including effects and a varied soundtrack, contributes significantly to the immersive experience.

While the game offers a complex leveling system for characters, magic, and skills, it allows players to progress at their own pace without overwhelming them. Some sections can be challenging and require significant time commitment, making it a true traditional JRPG experience.

Overall, Grandia is celebrated for its beautiful visuals, engaging story, and nostalgic feel, allowing players to relive the innocence and optimism of childhood adventures. The article concludes by reflecting on the game's deeper themes of growth and the passage of time.

Author: tosh | Score: 122

5.
AlgoDrill – Interactive drills to stop forgetting LeetCode patterns
(AlgoDrill – Interactive drills to stop forgetting LeetCode patterns)

AlgoDrill was created to help people better remember coding patterns while preparing for interviews. After struggling to recall solutions after practicing on LeetCode, the creator designed AlgoDrill to focus on pattern-based drills. Users rebuild solutions step-by-step while actively recalling information, and receive clear explanations for each step. Problems are categorized by common patterns like sliding window and dynamic programming, allowing users to practice areas they find challenging. The aim is to help users write code confidently and quickly during real interviews. Feedback is welcomed on the effectiveness of this approach and any confusion or missing elements on the site.

Author: henwfan | Score: 93

6.
Mistral Releases Devstral 2 (72.2% SWE-Bench Verified) and Vibe CLI
(Mistral Releases Devstral 2 (72.2% SWE-Bench Verified) and Vibe CLI)

Summary of Devstral 2 and Mistral Vibe CLI Release

Mistral AI has launched Devstral 2, a new family of coding models available in two versions: Devstral 2 (123 billion parameters) and Devstral Small 2 (24 billion parameters). Both models are open-source and designed to enhance coding efficiency.

Key Features:

  • Devstral 2: Achieves a score of 72.2% on SWE-bench, making it one of the top open coding models. It is cost-effective, being up to 7 times cheaper than competitors.
  • Devstral Small 2: A smaller model (24B parameters) that runs on consumer hardware, scoring 68.0% on SWE-bench.
  • Mistral Vibe CLI: A command-line interface that automates coding tasks, allowing users to interact with their codebase via natural language.

Deployment and Use:

  • Devstral 2 requires advanced GPU setups for optimal performance, while Devstral Small 2 can operate on single GPUs or even CPU-only systems.
  • The models are available for free through an API, with a pricing plan set to follow.

The release aims to democratize access to powerful coding tools, making them easier for developers and smaller teams to use. Mistral AI invites users to share their experiences and projects and is actively hiring for their team.

Author: pember | Score: 19

7.
Transformers know more than they can tell: Learning the Collatz sequence
(Transformers know more than they can tell: Learning the Collatz sequence)

No summary available.

Author: Xcelerate | Score: 56

8.
Constructing the Word's First JPEG XL MD5 Hash Quine
(Constructing the Word's First JPEG XL MD5 Hash Quine)

No summary available.

Author: luispa | Score: 52

9.
A deep dive into QEMU: The Tiny Code Generator (TCG), part 1 (2021)
(A deep dive into QEMU: The Tiny Code Generator (TCG), part 1 (2021))

Summary of QEMU TCG Overview

This blog post explains the inner workings of the QEMU Tiny Code Generator (TCG), which allows emulation of different CPU architectures by translating their instructions for execution on the host machine.

Key Components:

  1. vCPU Thread Execution: The execution of target instructions is handled by the tcg_cpu_exec function, which generates translated blocks of code.

  2. Translation Process:

    • tb_gen_code creates these translated blocks by generating Intermediate Representation (IR) code and converting it into machine code.
    • The TCG distinguishes between frontend operations (IR code) and backend operations (host CPU instructions).
  3. Intermediate Representation (IR):

    • The gen_intermediate_code function helps in creating IR from target-specific instructions, depending on the architecture being emulated (e.g., PowerPC on Intel x86).
    • The translation process is generic but relies on architecture-specific functions for translating individual instructions.
  4. Translated Blocks (TB):

    • Each TB consists of a prologue (initial setup) and an epilogue (exit conditions), allowing for efficient chaining of code blocks during execution.
  5. Disassembly Context:

    • The context for disassembly is tailored to the CPU architecture, ensuring that each TB is specific to the state of the CPU at the time of execution.
  6. Instruction Translation:

    • The function translate_insn is used to convert target instructions into IR using a table of opcode handlers specific to the target CPU.
  7. Example Translation:

    • An example of PowerPC instructions is provided, showing the transformation into TCG IR code. Notably, memory and system register accesses are converted into specific IR operations.

Overall, the blog highlights how QEMU's TCG effectively translates and executes instructions from one architecture on another by generating an intermediate code that eventually gets converted into the host's machine code.

Author: costco | Score: 50

10.
My favourite small hash table
(My favourite small hash table)

No summary available.

Author: speckx | Score: 9

11.
Icons in Menus Everywhere – Send Help
(Icons in Menus Everywhere – Send Help)

The author expresses frustration with the trend of including icons in every menu item by default, particularly in applications like Google Sheets and macOS Tahoe. They believe this approach creates unnecessary visual clutter and complicates menu navigation. Instead of thoughtfully considering whether an icon enhances understanding, designers often just add them for the sake of filling space.

The author contrasts this with Apple's previous guidelines, which advised against using arbitrary symbols that could confuse users. They highlight that while some icons can be helpful, many in current menus seem random and unhelpful. The author concludes that the prevalence of icons in menus has made it difficult to advocate for a more thoughtful, minimal approach to design.

Author: ArmageddonIt | Score: 699

12.
ZX Spectrum Next on the Internet: Xberry Pi ESP01 and Pi Zero Upgrades
(ZX Spectrum Next on the Internet: Xberry Pi ESP01 and Pi Zero Upgrades)

No summary available.

Author: ibobev | Score: 35

13.
The Gamma Language
(The Gamma Language)

No summary available.

Author: RossBencina | Score: 15

14.
AWS Trainium3 Deep Dive – A Potential Challenger Approaching
(AWS Trainium3 Deep Dive – A Potential Challenger Approaching)

No summary available.

Author: Symmetry | Score: 7

15.
Brent's Encapsulated C Programming Rules (2020)
(Brent's Encapsulated C Programming Rules (2020))

Summary of Brent's Encapsulated C Programming Rules

Brent shares a set of guidelines for writing well-structured and efficient C programs, emphasizing encapsulation, memory management, and coding best practices. Here are the key points:

  1. Encapsulation: Use headers to hide implementation details. This allows users to interact with code without needing to understand its inner workings.

  2. Memory Management:

    • Ensure memory ownership: The code that allocates memory should also free it.
    • Avoid using void*; prefer defining specific data structures for better type safety and clarity.
  3. Working with Strings:

    • Use UTF-8 for strings as it is compatible with ASCII.
    • Avoid complicating string handling; stick to standard character types.
  4. Data Types:

    • Use uint8_t for byte arrays instead of char*.
    • Always use the standard boolean type from <stdbool.h>.
  5. Code Structure:

    • Write functions that perform a single task.
    • Modularize code instead of creating large, complex systems.
    • Prefer inline functions over macros for better readability and maintainability.
  6. Testing and Error Handling:

    • Treat warnings as errors and ensure all warnings are enabled in the compiler.
    • Test individual functions thoroughly with known inputs.
  7. Performance Considerations:

    • Be cautious with encapsulation as it may impact performance. Use const to protect data while allowing access.
    • Order struct members from largest to smallest type to optimize memory usage.
  8. General Best Practices:

    • Use standards whenever possible (e.g., int32_t instead of just int).
    • When checking floating-point values, avoid direct comparisons with zero; use a small epsilon value instead.
    • Always initialize pointers in structs to avoid undefined behavior.

Brent acknowledges that there may be more rules to come as he continues to refine his programming practices.

Author: p2detar | Score: 40

16.
Epsilon: A WASM virtual machine written in Go
(Epsilon: A WASM virtual machine written in Go)

Epsilon Overview

Epsilon is a lightweight WebAssembly runtime written in Go, requiring no external dependencies. It supports the WebAssembly 2.0 specification and works on various architectures like amd64 and arm64 without using CGo. Key features include:

  • Embedding WebAssembly: You can integrate WebAssembly modules into Go applications.
  • Interactive REPL: A tool for testing and debugging modules.

Installation To install Epsilon, use the command:

go get github.com/ziggy42/epsilon

Quick Start

  • Basic Execution: Load and run a WebAssembly module from bytes:

    wasmBytes, _ := os.ReadFile("add.wasm")
    instance, _ := epsilon.NewRuntime().InstantiateModuleFromBytes(wasmBytes)
    result, _ := instance.Invoke("add", int32(5), int32(37))
    fmt.Println(result[0]) // Outputs: 42
    
  • Using Host Functions: You can add custom Go functions to your WebAssembly modules:

    imports := epsilon.NewImportBuilder().
        AddHostFunc("env", "log", func(args ...any) []any {
            fmt.Printf("[WASM Log]: %v\n", args[0])
            return nil
        }).
        Build()
    
    instance, _ := epsilon.NewRuntime().InstantiateModuleWithImports(wasmFile, imports)
    

Interactive REPL Start the REPL for testing:

go run ./cmd/epsilon

Essential Commands:

  • LOAD: Load a module from a file or URL.
  • INVOKE: Call an exported function.
  • GET: Read a global variable.
  • MEM: Inspect memory.
  • LIST: List loaded modules.

Testing & Benchmarks Run tests and benchmarks using:

go test ./epsilon/...
go test -bench . ./internal/benchmarks

Contributing Refer to the CONTRIBUTING.md for details.

License This project is licensed under Apache 2.0. Note that it is not an official Google product and is not eligible for Google's vulnerability rewards program.

Author: ziggy42 | Score: 105

17.
30 Year Anniversary of WarCraft II: Tides of Darkness
(30 Year Anniversary of WarCraft II: Tides of Darkness)

Summary of WarCraft II: Tides of Darkness 30-Year Anniversary

WarCraft II: Tides of Darkness celebrates its 30th anniversary since its release on December 9, 1995. After the success of the first game, Blizzard began developing this sequel in early 1995. WarCraft II introduced significant enhancements, such as the ability to select more units at once, right-click command issuing, and new combat types like naval and aerial battles. The game featured improved graphics and introduced the Fog of War mechanic, changing how players explored the map.

The game continued to focus on the conflict between two factions, Humans and Orcs, ensuring balance by mirroring their units and buildings. However, the Orcs had a notable advantage with their powerful Bloodlust spell.

Blizzard released several versions and expansions over the years, including WarCraft II: Beyond the Dark Portal and WarCraft II: Battle.net Edition, which enabled online multiplayer gaming. In November 2024, a remastered version was launched with updated graphics and controls.

WarCraft II received critical acclaim, being named the best game of 1995 by PC Gamer US. It spurred a wave of third-party tools and modifications, influencing later Blizzard games and the broader gaming community.

The article also shares a personal story about the author's early experiences with WarCraft II, highlighting the impact of the game and its map editor on their interest in gaming and modding.

Author: sjoblomj | Score: 51

18.
The universal weight subspace hypothesis
(The universal weight subspace hypothesis)

Researchers found that deep neural networks, when trained on different tasks, tend to share similar patterns in their structure. They studied over 1,100 models, including various types of neural networks, and discovered that these models often converge to common low-dimensional spaces that represent most of their learning. By analyzing the weight matrices of these models, they identified specific subspaces that many different architectures utilize, regardless of the task or data.

This research reveals how information is organized within deep networks and suggests that we might be able to find these shared structures without needing a lot of data or computing power. These findings could be important for making models more efficient, improving multi-task learning, and reducing the environmental impact of training large neural networks.

Author: lukeplato | Score: 331

19.
Kroger acknowledges that its bet on robotics went too far
(Kroger acknowledges that its bet on robotics went too far)

No summary available.

Author: JumpCrisscross | Score: 220

20.
No ARIA is better than bad ARIA
(No ARIA is better than bad ARIA)

Summary

This document provides guidance on using ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) effectively for web accessibility. Here are the key points:

  1. No ARIA is Better than Bad ARIA: Using incorrect ARIA can mislead assistive technologies and harm user experiences. It's crucial to understand how ARIA works before implementing it.

  2. Two Essential Principles:

    • A Role is a Promise: When you assign an ARIA role (like role="button"), it implies that you will also provide the expected keyboard interactions. Failing to do so can confuse users.
    • ARIA Can Cloak or Enhance: ARIA can either obscure original meanings or add necessary information. It is powerful because it helps make elements accessible, but it can also create issues if used incorrectly.
  3. Testing and Compatibility: It’s important to test ARIA implementations with various browsers and assistive technologies to ensure functionality. This guide is based on the latest standards and aims for compatibility with popular browsers.

  4. Mobile and Touch Support: The guide currently lacks specific guidance for mobile and touch interactions, as there is no standardized approach for these platforms yet. Future updates will address this.

Overall, the document emphasizes careful and informed use of ARIA to enhance web accessibility without compromising the user experience.

Author: robin_reala | Score: 112

21.
I built a system for active note-taking in regular meetings like 1-1s
(I built a system for active note-taking in regular meetings like 1-1s)

The author discusses the importance of active note-taking during meetings, emphasizing that it's more effective to jot down key points and insights in their own words rather than relying on minutes or AI summaries. This method helps track what happens in recurring meetings and allows for better reflection over time.

After trying various note-taking tools without finding a perfect fit, the author created their own tool designed specifically for regular meetings like one-on-ones. They've been using it successfully and now want to share it with others. The tool has a free tier available for immediate use without signing up. They invite others to try it and provide feedback.

Author: davnicwil | Score: 129

22.
EU investigates Google over AI-generated summaries in search results
(EU investigates Google over AI-generated summaries in search results)

The European Union (EU) is investigating Google for using AI-generated summaries above search results without compensating content creators. The investigation will look into whether Google used data from websites and YouTube videos to develop its AI services, potentially harming publishers’ traffic and revenue. Google argues that the inquiry could hinder innovation in a competitive market.

Concerns have been raised that the AI Overviews feature could lead to fewer clicks on links to websites, reducing their advertising income. The investigation will also assess if creators can opt-out of having their content used for AI training. Advocates for creators believe this is essential to protect their rights and livelihoods.

The EU emphasizes the importance of supporting diverse media and ensuring that technological advancements do not undermine democratic values. The Commission has strict digital rules, and violations can result in significant fines.

Author: hackerbeat | Score: 39

23.
Manual: Spaces
(Manual: Spaces)

Summary of Manual: Spaces

Whitespace is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of typography. It refers to the blank areas that separate letters, words, and lines, playing a significant role in text readability and layout. In typography, there are various types of whitespace characters, including standard spaces, non-breaking spaces, and different widths of spaces used for specific purposes.

Historically, the use of word spacing in European languages began around the 7th century with the introduction of Latin script. In the age of metal type, spaces were physical objects, and their widths depended on the typeface's design. Today, digital typography still utilizes these concepts, though many applications primarily offer just standard spaces.

Key types of whitespace include:

  1. Standard Space: The most common space, created by pressing the space bar.
  2. Non-Breaking Space: Prevents automatic line breaks at its position, useful for keeping words together.
  3. Emspace and Enspace: Wider spaces used for specific formatting needs; emspace is the width of a capital letter, while enspace is half of that.
  4. Thin Space and Hair Space: Used for finer adjustments, especially with punctuation.

Proper spacing is essential for maintaining legibility and a balanced appearance in text. Overly wide or narrow spaces can disrupt the reading flow. In justified texts, spacing must be adjusted carefully to avoid visual inconsistency.

Software tools like InDesign provide advanced options for adjusting whitespace, allowing typographers to achieve the desired aesthetic. However, designers should always trust their judgment in creating a visually appealing layout, considering the relationship between text and whitespace.

Overall, understanding and properly using whitespace enhances the effectiveness of typography in design.

Author: doener | Score: 96

24.
Mazda suitcase car, a portable three-wheeled vehicle that fits in the luggage
(Mazda suitcase car, a portable three-wheeled vehicle that fits in the luggage)

Meet Ori, the world's first frameless umbrella that opens up using origami technology. It has gained a lot of attention, with 29,000 views.

Author: tlyleung | Score: 67

25.
Jepsen: NATS 2.12.1
(Jepsen: NATS 2.12.1)

Summary of NATS JetStream Testing Report

Background: NATS is a streaming system where producers send messages to streams and consumers retrieve them. Regular streams can drop messages, but JetStream, a NATS subsystem, ensures "at least once" message delivery using the Raft consensus algorithm. JetStream aims for high availability and claims to be linearizable, but this conflicts with the CAP theorem, which states that linearizable systems cannot be fully available.

Test Design: Testing was conducted using the Jepsen framework with various faults simulated, such as process crashes, network issues, and file corruption. A single JetStream stream was created with a replication factor of five, and tests focused on how well the system handled these faults.

Key Findings:

  1. Total Data Loss in Version 2.10.22: Crashes could result in the complete loss of JetStream data, a problem fixed in version 2.10.23.
  2. Lost Writes from File Corruption: Corruption of .blk files led to the loss of significant amounts of data, even if only a few nodes were affected.
  3. Stream Deletion from Snapshot Corruption: Errors in snapshot files caused nodes to mistakenly delete streams, even if only some nodes had corruption.
  4. Inefficient Persistence Method: JetStream acknowledges messages immediately but only flushes data to disk every two minutes, leading to potential data loss during power failures or crashes.
  5. Single OS Crash Causes Split-Brain: A single crash could result in acknowledged messages being lost, causing a “split-brain” scenario where nodes have inconsistent data.

Recommendations:

  • Change the fsync default to always to prevent data loss.
  • Clearly document the potential risks associated with correlated power failures and rapid node failures.
  • The system's claims of self-healing and availability should be clarified, as they conflict with the CAP theorem.

Conclusion: While JetStream generally performed well, significant issues related to data loss and consistency were identified, particularly under specific fault conditions. Further testing and clearer documentation are necessary to enhance reliability and user understanding.

Author: aphyr | Score: 404

26.
Strong earthquake hits northern Japan, tsunami warning issued
(Strong earthquake hits northern Japan, tsunami warning issued)

The text includes links to various websites related to earthquake and tsunami information. Key points are:

  1. Earthquake Details: A link provides specific information about a recent earthquake event.
  2. Tsunami Information: There are links to news and updates regarding tsunamis, including safety and warnings.
  3. Earthquake Maps: A link directs to a map showing recent earthquakes.
  4. Tsunami Alerts: Another link offers updates on tsunami warnings.

These resources can help people stay informed about seismic activity and potential tsunami threats.

Author: lattis | Score: 340

27.
Microsoft increases Office 365 and Microsoft 365 license prices
(Microsoft increases Office 365 and Microsoft 365 license prices)

No summary available.

Author: taubek | Score: 441

28.
Has the cost of building software dropped 90%?
(Has the cost of building software dropped 90%?)

The author discusses a significant change in the software development industry due to advancements in AI coding tools, specifically "agentic coding." These tools are believed to reduce the cost of building software by up to 90%, transforming how software is developed.

Key points include:

  1. Cost Reduction: The labor costs for software development are drastically reduced, allowing projects that previously took a month to complete in a week. This is achieved through tools that efficiently convert business logic into functioning code.

  2. Increased Demand: As software becomes cheaper to produce, demand will rise. Many organizations have unaddressed needs for software that could replace spreadsheet solutions, which will now be more affordable to implement.

  3. Human Oversight is Key: While AI tools can handle much of the coding, human oversight remains crucial for quality control and decision-making. Developers with strong domain knowledge will be able to leverage these tools effectively.

  4. Rapid Iteration: The combination of skilled developers and AI allows for rapid software development, making it easier to discard ineffective solutions and start fresh.

  5. Adaptation to Change: The author urges software engineers to embrace these changes, suggesting that those who resist may fall behind as the industry evolves quickly.

Overall, the text highlights a transformative moment in software development, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new technologies to stay relevant in the field.

Author: martinald | Score: 359

29.
Is your AI system illegal in the EU?
(Is your AI system illegal in the EU?)

The EU has identified over 50 types of AI applications as "high-risk," and this classification applies to any company that provides, imports, or uses AI systems in the EU, regardless of their location. Key points to consider include:

  1. High-Risk Categories: High-risk AI applications include those used in hiring, customer service, and risk assessments. Specific examples include automated resume screening and biometric identification.

  2. Compliance Requirements: Companies deploying high-risk AI must obtain a CE marking, register with the EU, implement risk management systems, and ensure transparency in their AI systems. They also need to maintain documentation about accuracy and have human oversight for decisions made by AI.

  3. Self-Assessment: Businesses should check if their AI makes automated decisions about people, operates in critical infrastructure, or uses biometric data, as these indicate potential high-risk status.

  4. Timeline: The AI Act will enforce its rules in stages, with full compliance required by August 2, 2026.

  5. Regulatory Sandbox: Starting August 2, 2026, companies can use regulatory sandboxes to test their AI products under supervision, helping ensure compliance while reducing the risk of penalties.

In summary, if your AI system is used in the EU and involves high-risk applications, it’s important to begin compliance preparations now.

Author: pbacdf | Score: 10

30.
Oliver Sacks Put Himself into His Case Studies. What Was the Cost?
(Oliver Sacks Put Himself into His Case Studies. What Was the Cost?)

No summary available.

Author: barry-cotter | Score: 6

31.
Let's put Tailscale on a jailbroken Kindle
(Let's put Tailscale on a jailbroken Kindle)

The blog post discusses how to install Tailscale on a jailbroken Kindle, enhancing its capabilities. Tailscale allows for easier SSH access, file transfers, and better connectivity. Jailbreaking a Kindle means removing the manufacturer's restrictions, enabling the use of unofficial apps and more flexibility with e-books.

To jailbreak a Kindle, users need to check their device's firmware version and follow specific steps to avoid automatic updates that could undo the jailbreak. The installation of Tailscale adds features like a persistent IP address, easy file transfers, and access to a self-hosted Calibre Web library.

Overall, jailbreaking and installing Tailscale makes the Kindle more functional and customizable, allowing users to manage files and apps more effectively. However, there are risks involved, including potentially bricking the device and voiding warranties.

Author: Quizzical4230 | Score: 311

32.
Trials avoid high risk patients and underestimate drug harms
(Trials avoid high risk patients and underestimate drug harms)

The working paper titled "Trials Avoid High Risk Patients and Underestimate Drug Harms" by Jason Abaluck, Leila Agha, and Sachin Shah examines how clinical trials often exclude high-risk patients, which can lead to an underestimation of the harmful effects of cancer drugs. The study uses data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program linked to Medicare claims.

Key findings include:

  • Starting treatment with cancer drugs increases the risk of serious adverse events (SAEs) by 2 percentage points per month, which is a 250% rise.
  • Patients with more health issues are at a higher risk of SAEs but are less likely to participate in clinical trials.
  • Specifically, the highest-risk patients experience 2.5 times more SAEs compared to lower-risk patients, yet they are four times less likely to be included in trials.
  • The predicted risk of SAEs for the overall population is 15% higher than for those who participate in trials, which could mean one additional hospitalization for every 25 patients treated annually.

The authors suggest that better regulation of trial participant demographics could improve the relevance of trial results for real-world patients and inform regulatory standards.

Author: bikenaga | Score: 160

33.
Nia (YC S25) – Give better context to coding agents
(Nia (YC S25) – Give better context to coding agents)

Arlan is developing Nia, a tool designed to improve AI coding agents by providing them with accurate and up-to-date context from real codebases and documentation. Nia helps coding agents avoid using outdated or incorrect information, which often leads to errors and wasted time.

Nia works by indexing various sources, such as GitHub repositories and documentation, and organizes the information in a way that makes it easy for coding agents to retrieve relevant data. It can handle multiple projects and agents simultaneously, allowing for a seamless workflow. Users can benefit from pre-indexed public sources and easily incorporate their own private repositories into the system.

Nia is a paid service but offers a free tier for individuals to test its capabilities. The tool aims to provide reliable context for a variety of applications, and early users have explored its potential in different fields, such as healthcare and personal AI agents. Feedback on its performance and usability is welcomed, as Arlan wants to refine the tool based on user experiences.

Author: jellyotsiro | Score: 124

34.
IBM to acquire Confluent
(IBM to acquire Confluent)

On December 8, 2025, Confluent announced its agreement to be acquired by IBM for $31.00 per share. Once the deal is finalized, Confluent will remain a separate brand within IBM. The acquisition aims to enhance data management for large enterprises, supporting cloud services and artificial intelligence.

Confluent's CEO, Jay Kreps, expressed gratitude to the team for their hard work and emphasized that the company's mission will continue but will be amplified under IBM. He highlighted the importance of data in modern business and the shared vision between Confluent and IBM for a future driven by real-time data and AI.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals, and until it closes, Confluent will operate independently. Employees' roles and benefits will remain unchanged during this period. Further details will be shared in upcoming meetings and communications.

Author: abd12 | Score: 428

35.
AMD GPU Debugger
(AMD GPU Debugger)

The text describes a JavaScript function that manages the behavior of a webpage's user interface, focusing on the "back" button and a table of contents (TOC). Here are the key points:

  1. Scroll Behavior: The opacity of a gradient mask changes based on the scroll position of the page. If the page is scrolled down more than 64 pixels, the mask becomes fully visible.

  2. Back Button Positioning: The position of a back button is adjusted depending on the layout of the page and the screen size. If there’s enough space, the button is fixed on the left side; otherwise, it is not displayed.

  3. Table of Contents (TOC):

    • The TOC is displayed only if there are content links available.
    • It adjusts its position based on the screen size and whether a TOC is enabled.
    • Clicking TOC links will smoothly scroll to the corresponding section on the page.
  4. Active Link Highlighting: As the user scrolls, the TOC highlights the currently active section based on the scroll position.

  5. Responsive Adjustments: The script listens for page load and resize events to ensure elements are positioned correctly and update their states as needed.

Overall, the script creates a dynamic and user-friendly navigation experience on the webpage.

Author: ibobev | Score: 270

36.
Horses: AI progress is steady. Human equivalence is sudden
(Horses: AI progress is steady. Human equivalence is sudden)

The speaker compares the rapid advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), to the historical decline of horses and the evolution of computer chess.

  1. Horses: After the invention of steam engines in the 1700s, it took 200 years for engines to significantly improve, yet horses remained unaffected until a sudden decline in their population between 1930 and 1950, when 90% of horses in the US disappeared.

  2. Chess: Computer chess saw steady improvement since 1985, but by 2010, computers had surpassed human grandmasters, shifting from humans winning 90% of the time to losing 90%.

  3. AI Progress: The global spending on AI is steadily increasing, expected to double in the coming years. However, the speaker feels that AI has rapidly surpassed human capabilities in a much shorter time frame.

  4. Personal Experience: As a researcher at Anthropic, the speaker experienced a dramatic change when AI (Claude) began answering questions that they used to handle. Within six months, Claude outperformed them significantly, raising concerns about job security similar to the fate of horses.

In summary, the speaker reflects on the swift advancement of AI, drawing parallels to historical technological shifts, and expresses concern about the implications for human roles in the workforce.

Author: pbui | Score: 497

37.
Hunting for North Korean Fiber Optic Cables
(Hunting for North Korean Fiber Optic Cables)

No summary available.

Author: Bezod | Score: 274

38.
Paramount launches hostile bid for Warner Bros
(Paramount launches hostile bid for Warner Bros)

Netflix plans to acquire Warner Bros. This news has generated a lot of discussion online, as seen in the 1,333 comments about it.

Author: gniting | Score: 350

39.
Cassette tapes are making a comeback?
(Cassette tapes are making a comeback?)

Cassette tapes are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, despite being seen as an outdated music format. Sales of cassettes have increased significantly, with major artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish releasing them alongside digital formats. In the UK, cassette sales reached their highest levels since 2003, and sales in the US rose dramatically in early 2025.

However, this trend is less of a full revival and more of a rediscovery, particularly among younger audiences. While cassettes are known for their low sound quality and inconvenience, they offer a tangible connection to music that digital formats do not. Many people appreciate the physicality of cassettes and the focused listening experience they provide.

Cassettes also hold a nostalgic value and a sense of rebellion against the digital music landscape. They allow for creative expressions like mixtapes, which were once a popular way to share music. Artists and fans often use cassettes as unique merchandise, fostering a sense of community and dedication among listeners.

In summary, while cassettes may not replace streaming services, they offer a different, more personal way to enjoy music that contrasts with the digital age.

Author: devonnull | Score: 120

40.
Legion Health (YC S21) is hiring a founding engineer (SF, in-person)
(Legion Health (YC S21) is hiring a founding engineer (SF, in-person))

Legion Health is a psychiatric practice focused on improving mental health care operations, such as scheduling, documentation, and billing. They run their own clinic, helping over 2,000 patients with just one human support lead.

They are looking to hire a Founding Engineer in San Francisco to collaborate with the founders on developing backend systems and tools for mental health care. Candidates should have experience in system thinking and workflow management, while prior work with AI language models (LLMs) is not required but is a plus.

The job is full-time, in-person, with a salary range of $130,000 to $180,000 and equity options between 0.1% and 0.6%.

Author: the_danny_g | Score: 1

41.
Microsoft Download Center Archive
(Microsoft Download Center Archive)

The Legacy Update site provides an archive of Microsoft downloads that have been removed by the company over the years, including older versions of Windows, Office, Visual Studio, and other software. This archive covers downloads from 2012 to 2024, with ongoing efforts to include content deleted up until 2025.

Users can browse or search for specific downloads, but it's important to note that these deleted downloads are no longer supported by Microsoft and may have security issues. The site encourages users to check for updates after installation.

The archive includes various tools and runtimes such as:

  • Office Viewers: Free tools to view Office files without the full suite.
  • .NET Framework: Necessary runtimes for programs developed using .NET.
  • Visual C++ Redistributables: Required for many applications built with Visual C++.
  • DirectX Runtime: Essential for running games and graphics programs.
  • Microsoft SQL Server Express: A free edition of SQL Server for database applications.

The site thanks the Archive Team and the Internet Archive for their support in preserving these downloads. Users are encouraged to help maintain the service through donations or support.

Lastly, the Legacy Update site operates independently of Microsoft and advises users to read software license agreements carefully.

Author: luu | Score: 183

42.
AI should only run as fast as we can catch up
(AI should only run as fast as we can catch up)

The article discusses the relationship between AI development and our ability to verify its outputs, using examples from two friends, Eric and Daniel.

  • Eric's Experience: A project manager at a startup, Eric was impressed by how AI could quickly create web applications but struggled to understand the underlying technology. He realized he couldn't keep up with the engineering team to effectively use AI for product development.

  • Daniel's Experience: A senior engineer, Daniel was initially skeptical about AI but has since found it valuable for speeding up his work. He effectively prompts AI to create code, checks its accuracy with minimal effort, and quickly deploys reliable features without writing code himself.

The overarching theme is the need for reliable engineering when using AI. While AI can perform tasks quickly, we must also be able to verify its outputs to ensure reliability. This verification process can become a bottleneck if it requires extensive technical knowledge, leading to a phenomenon called "verification debt," where unverified outputs can create risks.

The article argues for the importance of "Verification Engineering," which aims to make it easier to verify AI-generated work. This may involve developing better prompts, training stakeholders for effective verification, and identifying tasks that are easy to verify but hard to create. Ultimately, those who can effectively verify AI outputs will benefit the most from AI advancements.

Author: yuedongze | Score: 183

43.
Fanfa – Interactive and animated Mermaid diagrams
(Fanfa – Interactive and animated Mermaid diagrams)

The text describes a visual tool called fanfa.dev that helps users create and manage diagrams.

Key Points:

  • Inputs: The tool takes various inputs, including Tasks, Projects, Chat Messages, Documents, Attributes, and Teams.
  • Core Functionality: The main application (fanfa.dev) processes these inputs to generate several outputs:
    • Auto-fill Attributes
    • Live Project Brief
    • Triage Bugs
    • De-duplicate Tasks
    • Auto-team
  • Features: Users can build diagrams, share them, and quickly make changes. It also offers animated visualizations and supports sharing and saving diagrams.

Overall, fanfa.dev is designed for efficient project management and collaboration.

Author: bairess | Score: 129

44.
Periodic Spaces
(Periodic Spaces)

The text discusses a technique called "domain repetition" used in rendering shapes using Signed Distance Functions (SDFs). Here's a simplified summary of the key points:

  1. Domain Repetition: This technique allows the rendering of countless shapes in real-time by evaluating only one shape at a time as rays march through the scene.

  2. Eye Model Example: The author provides a detailed SDF code example for creating a pair of eyes, illustrating how to use functions for pupils and targeting.

  3. Ray Marching: The process involves projecting rays into a scene and determining how far to move based on the distance to the nearest shape, which helps avoid rendering artifacts.

  4. Periodic Spaces: The text explains how to manipulate shapes by using mathematical functions (e.g., scaling, random offsets) to create various visual effects, including stretching and mirroring.

  5. Distance Fields: Proper distance fields are crucial for correct rendering, as they determine how far rays can move before hitting a shape. The author explores different functions like triangle waves and sine waves to achieve smooth tiling effects without artifacts.

  6. Visualization Issues: The author notes that some methods may lead to visual artifacts or incorrect distance fields, and discusses ways to mitigate these through oversampling techniques.

  7. Limitations: Although periodic functions provide interesting effects, they have limitations compared to classic domain repetition, especially regarding shape variation and sampling adjacent shapes.

Overall, the text delves into advanced rendering techniques using SDFs, emphasizing the creative possibilities of manipulating space and shapes through mathematical functions.

Author: surprisetalk | Score: 34

45.
A series of tricks and techniques I learned doing tiny GLSL demos
(A series of tricks and techniques I learned doing tiny GLSL demos)

In the last two months, I created small demos using GLSL (OpenGL Shading Language) and shared insights from four of them: Moonlight, Entrance 3, Archipelago, and Cutie. Each demo taught me something valuable.

Moonlight: This demo explored a simpler way to achieve glowing effects using a specific formula, which models the distribution of light based on distance. It demonstrated how to manage transparency and absorption with basic math.

Entrance 3: This was a challenging project where I created atmospheric effects while using a different distance calculation method. I also faced mobile device bugs that required clever coding workarounds. Additionally, I learned how to set up the camera for isometric and dimetric views.

Archipelago: This demo featured procedurally generated landscapes, using noise functions for mountains and water. I aimed for a different color theme compared to my previous work.

Cutie: Here, I aimed to fit my code within a 512-character limit, experimenting with smooth shapes and simple animation techniques. I discovered new methods for creating rounded forms using a smooth minimum operator.

Overall, I enjoy the challenge of creating tiny demos under a strict character limit, which helps me focus on specific aspects of graphics programming and keeps my artistic ambitions in check. The 512-character limit is also convenient for sharing on platforms like Mastodon.

Author: ibobev | Score: 188

46.
GitHub Actions has a package manager, and it might be the worst
(GitHub Actions has a package manager, and it might be the worst)

Summary: GitHub Actions' Package Management Issues

GitHub Actions, a tool for automating workflows, lacks essential features found in established package managers, raising significant security concerns. Here are the key issues:

  1. No Lockfile: Unlike other package managers, GitHub Actions does not use a lockfile, which records specific versions of dependencies. This means that every time a workflow runs, it can pull different versions, leading to unpredictable behavior.

  2. Security Vulnerabilities: Research shows that a vast majority of GitHub Actions execute code from unverified sources, increasing the risk of running insecure or compromised actions. Many workflows have known vulnerabilities due to untracked dependencies.

  3. Mutable Versions: Actions can change silently when their maintainers update them. Without a lockfile, users cannot ensure the stability of their workflows.

  4. Lack of Integrity Verification: There are no integrity checks for downloaded actions, meaning users have to trust that GitHub provides the correct code.

  5. No Transitive Dependency Control: When actions depend on other actions, users have no visibility or control over those dependencies, which can introduce additional security risks.

  6. Poor Documentation: The resolution process for dependencies in GitHub Actions is not well documented, making it difficult for users to understand how their workflows are constructed.

  7. No Central Registry: Actions are stored in Git repositories without a centralized index for security checks, making it harder to identify malicious packages.

  8. Shared Environment: Actions share the same environment, leading to potential conflicts and unpredictable outcomes.

  9. No Offline Support: Actions require internet access to run, which can be problematic during outages.

To address these issues, experts argue that GitHub needs to implement a lockfile system, integrity verification, and better visibility into dependencies. Despite requests for these features, GitHub has not made significant changes, raising concerns about the security of workflows that rely on its Actions system.

Author: robin_reala | Score: 419

47.
The Lost Machine Automats and Self-Service Cafeterias of NYC (2023)
(The Lost Machine Automats and Self-Service Cafeterias of NYC (2023))

The NYBG Holiday Train Show is a yearly event that showcases models of iconic New York City buildings made from plants. It highlights both existing and historical structures. The show is a celebration of the city and its architecture.

Author: walterbell | Score: 83

48.
A thousand-year-long composition turns 25 (2024)
(A thousand-year-long composition turns 25 (2024))

No summary available.

Author: 1659447091 | Score: 28

49.
JetBrains Cancels Fleet
(JetBrains Cancels Fleet)

Summary of "The Future of Fleet"

JetBrains is discontinuing its Fleet product starting December 22, 2025, due to confusion caused by having two similar IDE families: Fleet and IntelliJ-based IDEs. Although Fleet was an interesting experiment that introduced new design and technical elements, it failed to stand out as a standalone product. Users found it hard to justify switching from established IntelliJ IDEs.

JetBrains initially tried positioning Fleet as a lightweight multi-language IDE and later as an AI-first editor, but it didn't gain enough traction. The company discovered that developers are increasingly using AI agents to handle coding tasks asynchronously, leading to a new development approach. Instead of competing with existing IDEs, JetBrains will now focus on creating a new product centered around these "agentic workflows."

Current Fleet users can still use the software until server-dependent features stop functioning, but no further updates will be released. JetBrains will keep users informed about the new product as it develops.

Author: guitcastro | Score: 26

50.
Why Is Ice Slippery? A New Hypothesis Slides into the Chat
(Why Is Ice Slippery? A New Hypothesis Slides into the Chat)

A new hypothesis has emerged regarding why ice is slippery, reigniting a long-standing debate among scientists. Traditionally, a thin layer of water on the surface of ice is thought to cause its slipperiness, but the reasons behind this layer's formation are still contested.

Four main theories have been proposed:

  1. Pressure Melting: This theory, introduced in the 1800s, suggests that pressure from weight can lower the melting point of ice, creating a water layer. However, some researchers argue that the pressure exerted by a person is not enough to cause significant melting.

  2. Frictional Heating: Another theory posits that friction from sliding objects generates heat, melting the ice. Experiments have shown that friction doesn’t effectively explain slipperiness since ice can be slippery even before movement occurs.

  3. Premelting: This theory suggests that ice has a premelted layer on its surface, even without external pressure or heat. This layer allows for easier movement across the ice. Recent studies have confirmed the existence of this layer but debate its role in slipperiness.

  4. Amorphization: A recent hypothesis indicates that the structure of ice changes when surfaces slide against each other, creating a disordered, liquid-like layer rather than melting. Simulations have shown that this process could explain why ice remains slippery even at low temperatures.

Overall, researchers believe that a combination of these factors may contribute to the slipperiness of ice, though a clear consensus has yet to be reached. The ongoing debate highlights the complexity of understanding this seemingly simple phenomenon.

Author: nsoonhui | Score: 14

51.
No more O'Reilly subscriptions for me
(No more O'Reilly subscriptions for me)

Horst Gutmann, a software engineer from Graz, Austria, has decided not to renew his O'Reilly subscription after two years. Although the subscription offers access to a vast collection of technical books and learning resources, he finds it too expensive at $500 per year, especially since he can't read fast enough to justify the cost.

He also struggles with the mobile app's usability, experiencing issues with synchronization and finding it less enjoyable compared to other reading apps like Apple Books and Kindle. Instead, he plans to buy individual books from platforms like Kobo, which allow him to keep them permanently without subscription limits. He even has some leftover credits from a previous Manning subscription.

Author: speckx | Score: 160

52.
OSHW: Small tablet based on RK3568 and AMOLED screen
(OSHW: Small tablet based on RK3568 and AMOLED screen)

No summary available.

Author: thenthenthen | Score: 87

53.
Bad Dye Job
(Bad Dye Job)

No summary available.

Author: mpweiher | Score: 230

54.
Nova Programming Language
(Nova Programming Language)

Welcome to Nova!

Nova is a simple programming language designed for various purposes, including:

  • Sketching ideas
  • Taking notes and creating documents
  • Casual modeling and thinking
  • Computing without traditional computers

Programming can often be complicated, but Nova aims to make it easier. It serves as a language, a note-taking tool, and a way to communicate with both programmers and machines.

We encourage you to explore Nova and see what you can create.

If you're interested in learning more, you can:

  • Learn to write in Nova with resources from Yumaikas.
  • Find an online Nova IDE or connect Nova to existing code.
  • Join the Nova community on IRC (#nova on Libera) or Discord (#nova on Nouveau).
Author: surprisetalk | Score: 104

55.
After the Bubble
(After the Bubble)

No summary available.

Author: savant2 | Score: 6

56.
Flow: Actor-based language for C++, used by FoundationDB
(Flow: Actor-based language for C++, used by FoundationDB)

Flow Tutorial Summary

Overview of Flow: Flow is a framework for asynchronous programming, allowing components to communicate by sending messages. It introduces new keywords and design patterns for managing asynchronous tasks in C++.

Key Concepts:

  • Keywords/Primitives:

    • Promise and Future: Used for asynchronous message passing. A Promise is a one-time setter for a value, while a Future is a read-only handle to that value.
    • ACTOR: A special function type that can use wait() to pause execution until a Future is ready.
    • State Variables: Used to maintain variable state across different parts of an ACTOR function.
    • Void: Represents a signaling type for completion without returning a value.
  • Message Handling:

    • PromiseStream and FutureStream: Manage a series of asynchronous messages.
    • wait(): Pauses execution until a Future is ready to return its value.
    • waitNext(): Similar to wait(), but for receiving the next value in a FutureStream.
    • choose/when: Allows waiting for multiple Futures, executing only the first that is ready.
  • Design Patterns:

    • RPC (Remote Procedure Call): Servers expose interfaces using PromiseStreams for various request types, enabling clients to communicate effectively.

Memory Management:

  • Reference Counting: Manages the lifecycle of objects by tracking how many references exist.
  • Potential Gotchas: Includes issues like reference cycles and proper management of memory using arenas.

Serialization with Flatbuffers:

  • Flatbuffers provide a flexible way to serialize data structures for network communication, allowing for schema evolution without breaking compatibility.

Common Issues:

  • Be cautious with using wait() inside switch statements and managing actor cancellation.
  • Properly use Standalone objects within ACTOR functions to avoid invalid memory references.

In summary, Flow provides a powerful way to handle asynchronous programming in C++, emphasizing message-passing and careful memory management. Understanding its keywords and patterns is essential for effective usage.

Author: SchwKatze | Score: 177

57.
Apple's Slow AI Pace Becomes a Strength as Market Grows Weary of Spending
(Apple's Slow AI Pace Becomes a Strength as Market Grows Weary of Spending)

Apple’s stock performance has improved significantly after earlier struggles due to its lack of an artificial intelligence (AI) strategy. Initially, Apple shares dropped 18% in the first half of 2025, but since then, they have surged 35%, while other tech companies heavily invested in AI, like Meta and Microsoft, have seen declines.

Apple's market capitalization has reached $4.1 trillion, making it a leading player in the S&P 500. Analysts believe Apple has wisely avoided the costly AI arms race that many competitors are engaged in, positioning itself to benefit from AI technology when it becomes mainstream without excessive spending.

Currently, Apple’s stock is trading at a high valuation, around 33 times expected earnings, raising concerns about whether investors are overpaying. Despite some investors, including Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, reducing their stakes in Apple, the company remains a key investment due to its strong consumer base and perceived safety amidst the AI spending frenzy.

Overall, while Apple's stock is considered expensive, its solid market position makes it an appealing option for investors wary of the AI bubble.

Author: bgwalter | Score: 42

58.
A new nuclear 'island' where magic numbers break down
(A new nuclear 'island' where magic numbers break down)

No summary available.

Author: rbanffy | Score: 4

59.
Morphisms All the Way Down: API Design as Arrow-First Thinking
(Morphisms All the Way Down: API Design as Arrow-First Thinking)

Summary of "Morphisms All the Way Down: API Design as Arrow-First Thinking"

This article discusses a new approach to software architecture and API design based on category theory, emphasizing the importance of relationships (morphisms) over just objects (services, databases).

Key Points:

  1. Shift in Focus:

    • Traditional architecture centers around objects (e.g., services and components).
    • Categorical architecture prioritizes relationships and operations (morphisms) between these objects.
  2. Understanding Morphisms:

    • Morphisms are functions that represent relationships, such as transformations or contracts between data types.
    • The article outlines various properties of morphisms, including monomorphisms (injective), epimorphisms (surjective), and isomorphisms (reversible).
  3. Contract-First Design:

    • Designing APIs with an OpenAPI specification before implementation reflects morphism-first thinking. This approach emphasizes the importance of the contract (morphism) rather than the implementation details.
  4. Minimizing Couplings:

    • The article advocates for minimizing the number of morphisms between services to reduce complexity and improve maintainability (loose coupling).
  5. Composing Morphisms:

    • Morphisms can be composed to create more complex operations (like data pipelines), allowing for greater flexibility and testability.
  6. Versioning and Evolution:

    • When evolving systems, it’s crucial to preserve the integrity of existing morphisms to ensure backward compatibility.
  7. Practical Application:

    • The article encourages architects to ask specific questions about existing morphisms in their systems, look for potential issues, and consider how new services will interact.
  8. AWS Examples:

    • It illustrates how AWS services like API Gateway, EventBridge, and Step Functions can be viewed through the lens of morphisms, showing how they manage relationships between different components.

Conclusion:

  • The essence of good architecture lies in understanding and designing around morphisms. By focusing on the relationships and contracts between components, architects can create more robust, flexible, and maintainable systems.
Author: ibrahimcesar | Score: 6

60.
We collected 10k hours of neuro-language data in our basement
(We collected 10k hours of neuro-language data in our basement)

In a six-month project, the team at Conduit collected around 10,000 hours of neuro-language data from thousands of participants in order to train models that can decode thoughts from noninvasive neural data. This is believed to be the largest dataset of its kind globally.

Key Points:

  1. Data Collection Process: Participants wear headsets and engage in freeform conversations with a language model for two hours. The goal is to gather as much spoken or typed data as possible.

  2. Participant Experience: Initially, less than 20% of participants completed their first session. However, improvements in the process led to over 97% completion and increased participant retention.

  3. Headset Design: The team created custom multimodal headsets by combining the best single-modality headsets, as existing multimodal options were inadequate. They focused on making headsets comfortable while ensuring multiple data collection methods.

  4. Noise Management: While noise was a concern initially, the volume of data collected became more important at larger scales. They found that having more data mitigated the impact of noise, allowing them to focus on increasing participant throughput.

  5. Operational Efficiency: They developed a custom booking system that allowed for dynamic pricing and overbooking to maximize participant attendance. The team also sought to recruit diverse participants, limiting repeat visits to ensure a wide range of data.

  6. Cost Reduction: The team improved their data collection process, which significantly reduced the marginal cost per usable hour of data by enhancing their technology and operational practices.

  7. Future Steps: The team is now focused on training models using the collected data and is looking for engineers and researchers to join their efforts.

Overall, the project illustrates the challenges and strategies involved in large-scale data collection for machine learning applications in neuro-linguistics.

Author: nee1r | Score: 110

61.
Latency Profiling in Python: From Code Bottlenecks to Observability
(Latency Profiling in Python: From Code Bottlenecks to Observability)

Summary: Latency Profiling in Python

This article discusses the importance of understanding and measuring latency in Python applications, especially in systems where performance is critical, like trading platforms.

  1. Introduction: Averages can be misleading. While a system may report a low average latency, spikes can cause significant issues. Therefore, it's essential to focus on percentiles (like the 95th, 99th) to uncover these problems.

  2. Understanding Latency:

    • Performance Profiling vs. Latency Profiling: Performance profiling gives average time spent in code, while latency profiling focuses on outliers that can disrupt performance.
    • Types of Time: Wall clock time is what users experience, while CPU time measures actual computation. Both are important for understanding system latency.
  3. Latency Characteristics: Latency varies; most requests are quick, but some are slow. Jitter (variability in latency) can arise from various system factors, causing delays to propagate through the system.

  4. Profiling in Python:

    • Different profilers help identify where time is spent in Python applications:
      • cProfile: For CPU profiling.
      • py-spy: For sampling and observing wall-clock time.
      • line_profiler: For line-by-line analysis of CPU time.
    • Understanding whether your system is CPU-bound or I/O-bound is crucial for selecting the right profiler.
  5. Instrumentation: This involves adding measurement points in code to collect data on system performance. Tools like Prometheus can help track request durations, while OpenTelemetry offers a broader view of telemetry data.

  6. Continuous Profiling: Unlike one-time profiling, continuous profiling monitors performance over time, helping identify issues as they arise under real conditions. It allows developers to react proactively rather than reactively to performance problems.

  7. Diagnostic Playbook:

    • Measure wall and CPU time separately.
    • Focus on distributions instead of averages.
    • Continuously profile to maintain visibility into system performance.

In conclusion, understanding and monitoring latency is crucial for maintaining performance in Python applications. Continuous measurement and profiling provide insights that help developers optimize their systems effectively.

Author: rundef | Score: 42

62.
GitHub no longer uses Toasts
(GitHub no longer uses Toasts)

GitHub has stopped using toast notifications due to serious accessibility and usability issues. Toasts are small pop-up messages that appear on the screen and disappear after a short time, but they can create problems for users, especially those with disabilities. Instead, GitHub suggests using more effective ways to communicate with users.

Alternatives to Toasts:

  1. Banners: For feedback on completed or failed actions.
  2. Progressive Disclosure: Show results step-by-step for complex actions.
  3. Confirmation Pages: For more complicated forms, use a page that confirms the action taken.
  4. Long-Running Tasks: Use banners to notify users of task completion or failure.
  5. Error Notifications: Use banners or dialogs for informing users of errors.

Accessibility Issues with Toasts:

  • Timing: Toasts should stay visible until the user dismisses them, allowing time for all users to read them.
  • Meaningful Sequence: The order of toast messages can confuse assistive technologies.
  • Keyboard Navigation: Toasts must be operable by keyboard, including the ability to dismiss them.

Usability Concerns:

  • Visibility: Toasts may not be seen on larger screens or when users are multitasking.
  • Obstruction: They can block important UI elements, like buttons.
  • Memory: Automatically disappearing toasts may lead to missed important information.

In summary, GitHub recommends avoiding toast notifications in favor of more reliable and user-friendly communication methods that enhance accessibility for all users.

Author: samsolomon | Score: 111

63.
Doctors' estimates of the feasibility of preserving the dying for future revival
(Doctors' estimates of the feasibility of preserving the dying for future revival)

The text appears to be a list of sections or links on a website, including options like "Home," "Submit," "FAQ," "Blog," "ALERTS / RSS," "Resources," and "About." It seems to serve as a navigation menu for users to access different parts of the website easily.

Author: arielzj | Score: 47

64.
The web runs on tolerance
(The web runs on tolerance)

The article discusses the importance of tolerance in the web and coding. Unlike strict programming languages that can break due to small errors, modern web browsers are forgiving and work hard to display content even if the code is imperfect. This tolerance makes the web accessible to everyone, regardless of coding skill.

The author criticizes XHTML for being rigid and unwelcoming, leading to its decline in use. They argue that diversity and acceptance are essential for progress in technology, highlighting the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in computing history. The author condemns hate and isolationist ideologies, asserting that they are harmful to society and the tech community.

Ultimately, the piece emphasizes that the web thrives on diversity and tolerance, and those promoting hatred should not have a place in this ecosystem.

Author: speckx | Score: 93

65.
DuckDB for Kafka Stream Processing
(DuckDB for Kafka Stream Processing)

SQLFlow is a lightweight stream processing engine that uses DuckDB to handle a large number of messages quickly, processing tens of thousands of messages per second while using about 250MiB of memory. DuckDB also offers various connectors and sinks. The creators wanted a simpler solution than running Java Virtual Machines (JVMs) or using custom stream processors. They invite feedback and experiences from users. For more information, you can visit their tutorials and GitHub page.

Author: dm03514 | Score: 70

66.
Intel 8086 Microcode Explorer
(Intel 8086 Microcode Explorer)

No summary available.

Author: todsacerdoti | Score: 31

67.
Emacs is my new window manager (2015)
(Emacs is my new window manager (2015))

The author describes their experience using Emacs as a window manager on a virtual machine (VM) running Ubuntu. They prefer to keep their work and personal computing separate, so they set up a personal VM for tasks like note-taking. Here are the key points:

  1. Setup: The author installs a minimal graphical environment using the command sudo apt-get install -y xinit and then installs Emacs with sudo apt-get install -y emacs.

  2. Emacs as Window Manager: They configure Emacs to run in full-screen mode by creating an .xinitrc file that executes Emacs. This allows them to manage windows and applications within Emacs without needing a traditional window manager.

  3. Web Browsing: The author uses text-based web browsers like w3m and eww within Emacs for looking up technical resources. For websites that require JavaScript, they can open a graphical browser using a simple command.

  4. Applications: Emacs serves as the author's entire Linux desktop. They run various applications (like IRC, Twitter, and RSS feeds) by organizing them into windows with custom functions in Emacs.

  5. Alternative Window Managers: While the author prefers using Emacs, they mention lightweight window managers like Ratpoison and 2wm as alternatives for those who want to use a traditional window manager while still maximizing Emacs' screen space.

Overall, the author finds using Emacs as a window manager efficient for their workflow, combining personal and work-related tasks in a single environment.

Author: gpi | Score: 220

68.
Scientific and Technical Amateur Radio
(Scientific and Technical Amateur Radio)

Summary:

  1. ESCAPADE Mission: Launched on November 13, 2025, ESCAPADE is a twin spacecraft mission studying Mars' magnetosphere, led by UC Berkeley. The spacecraft will first orbit the Earth-Sun L2 point for a year before using a gravity assist to reach Mars.

  2. Telemetry Recording: After the launch, telemetry signals from the spacecraft were recorded using antennas from the Allen Telescope Array. The results and decoding methods are shared in a dataset available on Zenodo.

  3. sigmf-toolkit Release: A new Python package called sigmf-toolkit has been published. It includes tools for working with SigMF files, specifically for converting GNU Radio metadata and annotating PCAP files.

  4. Bit Error Rate (BER) Calculations: Posts were made discussing the bit error rate for non-coherent Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) demodulation. This includes derivations for both standard and mm-FSK cases.

  5. 10-Year Blogging Anniversary: The author celebrates a decade of blogging, reflecting on the evolution of topics and styles over 534 posts, while committing to continue sharing insights and experiences.

Author: gballan | Score: 52

69.
Alignment is capability
(Alignment is capability)

The article discusses the relationship between alignment and capability in AI systems. It argues that alignment is not just a limitation but essential for AI to be truly capable. A model that performs well on benchmarks but fails to understand human intent is less useful and not considered Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

Two companies, Anthropic and OpenAI, have different approaches to alignment and capability. Anthropic integrates alignment researchers into their capability development, leading to models that better understand human context and values. Their latest model, Claude Opus 4.5, has been praised for its performance and user experience.

In contrast, OpenAI treats alignment as a separate process, which has led to issues with their models, such as excessive sycophancy and coldness. This separation has caused user dissatisfaction, despite higher benchmark scores. The article suggests that without a coherent internal understanding of human values, models struggle to generalize and perform well in real-world applications.

The author concludes that alignment should be a core part of AI development, not an obstacle. Labs that integrate alignment effectively will likely advance faster in creating AGI. While acknowledging the current success of Anthropic, the author warns that the landscape may change and that incoherent training could lead to challenges in the future.

Author: drctnlly_crrct | Score: 102

70.
Using floating point numbers as hash keys (2017)
(Using floating point numbers as hash keys (2017))

The article discusses the use of floating point numbers as keys in hash tables, highlighting both their potential and the challenges they present. While strings and integers are common keys, floating point numbers can also be used if appropriate hash functions and comparison operators are defined. However, many programming languages handle floating point keys differently, especially concerning special values like NaN (Not a Number) and the two types of zero (+0.0 and -0.0).

Key points include:

  1. Inaccuracy Issues: Floating point numbers can lead to unexpected results due to rounding errors, making them less reliable as keys. For example, 0.1 + 0.2 might not equal 0.3 exactly in binary representation.

  2. Comparison Challenges: Comparing floating point numbers for equality is often problematic, which complicates defining hash functions that work correctly. Approaches like "epsilon comparison" can result in multiple values mapping to the same hash, leading to inefficiency.

  3. Safe Usage: In situations where floating point numbers are accurately represented, they can be safely used as keys. Certain operations, like basic arithmetic, are exact.

  4. Hash Function Requirements: A good hash function for floating points must convert values to unsigned integers, ensure that equal values produce the same hash, and minimize collisions for different values.

  5. Special Cases: The article notes the unique behavior of NaN values, which cannot be compared to themselves, leading to issues in hash tables where multiple NaNs can coexist without being retrievable.

The article will explore how different programming languages tackle these challenges in future posts.

Author: jstrieb | Score: 15

71.
Everything that is wrong in museums starts with wall labels
(Everything that is wrong in museums starts with wall labels)

The speaker discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning on museum collections, focusing on the importance of effective communication, particularly through wall labels. Here are the key points:

  1. Role of Museums: Museums should foster the act of revisiting culture and knowledge. Digital technologies can help facilitate this by making collections more accessible.

  2. Digital Transformation: The ongoing digital transformation in museums highlights previously hidden challenges within collections, particularly regarding data quality and management.

  3. Wall Labels as a Symptom: Problems in museums often manifest in the production of wall labels, which exemplify broader organizational issues. The process of creating these labels is often inefficient and disconnected from collection management systems.

  4. Stories and Context: The speaker shares stories about museum collections that illustrate the need for better contextual information and narratives around objects. Many valuable stories remain hidden and are not shared with the public.

  5. AI in Collections Management: While AI has potential benefits for managing collections, it does not address the underlying issues museums face. Most AI applications currently used are for internal processes and do not directly engage with public audiences.

  6. Curatorial Files: Important contextual information related to objects is often stored in unorganized curatorial files, which limits understanding and accessibility.

  7. Risks of AI: There is caution regarding the reliance on AI, as it can produce generic content and may not capture the nuance needed in museum narratives. The speaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining factual integrity in the face of generative systems.

  8. Examples of AI Use: Some museums are experimenting with AI for tasks like text extraction and generating searchable metadata. However, these applications are mainly staff-facing and do not replace the need for human curation.

  9. Future Considerations: Museums need to engage critically with AI and machine learning, considering the implications for storytelling and knowledge sharing. The speaker advocates for a balance between embracing new technologies and preserving accurate, meaningful narratives.

In summary, while AI offers opportunities for improving museum operations, significant challenges remain in how museums communicate and manage their collections. The speaker calls for a thoughtful approach to technology, emphasizing the need for clear narratives and responsible practices in the cultural heritage sector.

Author: panic | Score: 20

72.
Spectrum ISP SSL/TLS Interception Bug
(Spectrum ISP SSL/TLS Interception Bug)

No summary available.

Author: sleepingreset | Score: 22

73.
Google confirms Android attacks; no fix for most Samsung users
(Google confirms Android attacks; no fix for most Samsung users)

Google has confirmed that Android is facing serious attacks, prompting an emergency update released on December 1, 2025, primarily for Pixel users. Unfortunately, most Samsung users do not yet have access to these critical fixes, even though attacks are actively targeting their devices.

Two specific vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-48633 and CVE-2025-48572, could allow attackers to disrupt services on smartphones without needing extra permissions. Samsung quickly acknowledged these issues and addressed other vulnerabilities identified by Google's Project Zero research team.

Following Google's warning, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued a notice urging federal employees to update their devices or stop using them altogether due to a vulnerability in Android’s framework.

Despite Samsung's dominant market share in the Android sector, the company faces criticism for its slower update cycle compared to Google's Pixel devices. Updates vary by model, region, and carrier, leading to frustration among users who expect timely fixes. Samsung must improve its update processes to keep pace with competitors like Google and Apple.

Author: mohi-kalantari | Score: 200

74.
Wayland Nvidia
(Wayland Nvidia)

Summary: Wayland NVIDIA Setup Guide for 2025

A Wayland setup with NVIDIA drivers used to be very troublesome, causing issues like screen flickering and crashes. However, improvements in NVIDIA's drivers and the development of open-source compositors like Hyperland have made this configuration much more stable and reliable.

To successfully set up Wayland with NVIDIA, follow these key steps:

  1. Install the Correct Drivers:

    • Use DKMS (Dynamic Kernel Module Support) drivers to ensure compatibility with frequent kernel updates. Recommended packages are nvidia-dkms or nvidia-open-dkms.
  2. Enable 32-bit Support:

    • For gaming and applications, enable the multilib repository to install necessary 32-bit libraries.
  3. Configure Kernel Settings:

    • Set up DRM Kernel Mode Setting to allow the kernel to manage display modes. This involves modifying the initramfs configuration and the bootloader settings.
  4. Configure Hyprland:

    • Adjust the Hyprland configuration file with essential environment variables for optimal performance on NVIDIA hardware.
  5. Handle Hybrid Graphics:

    • For laptops with both integrated and discrete GPUs, you can either switch to discrete mode for better stability or configure hybrid mode properly to avoid performance issues.
  6. Troubleshoot Common Issues:

    • Flickering: Use explicit synchronization or run problematic applications in native Wayland mode.
    • Multi-Monitor Issues: Ensure correct monitor configurations and check refresh rates.
    • Suspend/Resume Problems: Create scripts and systemd services to manage Hyprland processes during sleep states.

By following these guidelines, users can create a smooth and efficient desktop experience using Wayland on NVIDIA. For more details and troubleshooting tips, additional resources are available in the article.

Author: breve | Score: 59

75.
Jujutsu worktrees are convenient (2024)
(Jujutsu worktrees are convenient (2024))

Jujutsu worktrees, or "workspaces" as referred to in Jujutsu (jj), are a useful feature in Git that allows you to work on a project in two different folders while sharing the same history. This approach is more efficient than having two separate copies of the project. It helps when you can't proceed with one task—like waiting for a continuous integration (CI) process—without losing your place in your code.

Using Jujutsu, you can easily create a new workspace by running a simple command, which lets you continue working on your project in a different folder. This setup also allows you to see which changes are being made in each workspace when you check the logs. For more information, you can use the command jj workspace --help.

Author: nvader | Score: 124

76.
Delivery robots take over Chicago sidewalks
(Delivery robots take over Chicago sidewalks)

No summary available.

Author: mikhael | Score: 97

77.
Luarrow – True pipeline operators and elegant Haskell-style function compositio
(Luarrow – True pipeline operators and elegant Haskell-style function compositio)

No summary available.

Author: todsacerdoti | Score: 21

78.
The consumption of AI-generated content at scale
(The consumption of AI-generated content at scale)

The text discusses the challenges of consuming AI-generated content, focusing on two main issues: signal degradation and verification erosion.

  1. Signal Degradation: As AI content becomes ubiquitous, traditional tools that help us understand information (like metaphors and structured writing) are overused. This leads to a situation where these tools lose their effectiveness, making everything sound similar and causing readers to tune out important signals.

  2. Verification Erosion: It has become easier to generate content quickly using AI, but verifying that content's accuracy takes more time and effort. This imbalance makes people lazier about checking the correctness of information, leading to potential errors in understanding or using AI-generated content.

The author emphasizes that these issues matter because they can lead to manipulation of consumers who can’t discern quality or truth in the information they consume. This degradation of taste and judgment poses a risk to society, as it affects how we build on knowledge and collaborate on complex problems.

To address these challenges, the author proposes two ideas:

  • Understanding the "Why" Behind Techniques: AI systems should be programmed to understand the reasoning behind communication techniques rather than just applying them mechanically.
  • Grounding AI in Verified Human Experience: AI should reference verified human experiences instead of making confident claims without basis, ensuring that outputs are trustworthy.

The author concludes by acknowledging the ongoing struggle to maintain critical thinking and discernment in an age dominated by AI-generated content.

Author: ivansavz | Score: 31

79.
CATL expects oceanic electric ships in three years
(CATL expects oceanic electric ships in three years)

CATL, a battery manufacturer, plans to launch fully electric ships for ocean travel within the next three years. The company’s marine division has been active since 2017 and has already supplied batteries for over 900 vessels, including the world's first fully electric ocean-going passenger ship. CATL is committed to zero-carbon marine transportation and has developed a comprehensive battery system that includes battery swapping and charging solutions.

Recent drops in battery prices and advancements in sodium-ion battery technology are expected to make electric shipping more feasible and cost-effective. Studies indicate that electric ships can travel long distances, up to 5,000 km, using current battery technology. CATL aims to expand its electrification efforts in both maritime and aviation sectors, with sodium-ion batteries potentially enabling widespread adoption in shipping.

Author: thelastgallon | Score: 151

80.
The "confident idiot" problem: Why AI needs hard rules, not vibe checks
(The "confident idiot" problem: Why AI needs hard rules, not vibe checks)

Summary:

The article discusses the "Confident Idiot" problem in AI, where AI agents confidently provide incorrect information, leading to wasted time and debugging. The author argues that relying on AI models to evaluate each other creates a circular dependency and does not solve the issue. Instead, AI should be treated like traditional software, with strict rules and assertions to ensure reliability.

To address this, the author created a Python library called Steer, which acts as a verification layer to catch errors in real-time. It uses specific verifiers to enforce rules, preventing incorrect actions from being executed. When an error is caught, it is logged, and users can add correction rules to improve the system without needing to change the underlying code.

The library is open-source and aims to provide a more deterministic approach to debugging AI agents. For those frustrated with unreliable AI responses, the author encourages checking out Steer.

Author: steerlabs | Score: 309

81.
Why frozen test fixtures are a problem on large projects and how to avoid them
(Why frozen test fixtures are a problem on large projects and how to avoid them)

The article discusses the challenges of using "frozen test fixtures" in large software projects and offers advice on how to avoid them.

Key Points:

  1. Problem with Frozen Fixtures:

    • Fixtures are useful because they are fast and reusable. However, when they are changed, they can cause unrelated tests to fail, leading to "frozen fixtures" where developers avoid modifying them to prevent breaking existing tests.
  2. Bad Solutions:

    • Creating new fixtures for every test leads to confusion and a bloated testing database.
    • Modifying fixture records within tests can result in inconsistent practices and complicate the testing process.
  3. Right Solution:

    • Tests should focus on specific properties of the code. A test should only fail if the property it is meant to check is broken. This approach ensures that tests provide accurate feedback and maintain confidence in the testing suite.

In summary, to manage test fixtures effectively, developers should aim for clarity, reusability, and focused testing practices.

Author: amalinovic | Score: 30

82.
Quanta to publish popular math and physics books by Terence Tao and David Tong
(Quanta to publish popular math and physics books by Terence Tao and David Tong)

Quanta Books will publish two new books aimed at making complex math and physics accessible to a general audience.

  1. Six Math Essentials by Terence Tao: This will be Tao's first book for a popular audience, exploring six key mathematical concepts that have shaped the field throughout history. Tao aims to demystify mathematics and make it approachable for everyone. The book will be available in multiple languages and will be released in November 2026.

  2. Everything Is Fields by David Tong: This book will explain quantum field theory, which describes the fundamental nature of the universe. Tong will discuss how everything, including matter and light, can be understood as waves in a vast quantum field.

Additionally, Quanta Books will release its first title, The Proof in the Code by Kevin Hartnett, in June 2026. This book tells the story of Lean, a proof assistant that is changing the field of mathematics and explores the future of math and AI.

Overall, these publications aim to make scientific ideas more accessible and engaging for readers.

Author: digital55 | Score: 125

83.
Twelve Days of Shell
(Twelve Days of Shell)

No summary available.

Author: zoidb | Score: 246

84.
Colors of Growth
(Colors of Growth)

The paper titled "Colors of Growth" explores a new method for measuring long-term economic growth by analyzing the use of color in European paintings from 1600 to 1820. Researchers used data from millions of pixels to create annual indices for countries like Great Britain, Holland, France, Italy, and Germany. These indices help track economic trends and reveal fluctuations related to events like wars and climate changes, which traditional GDP data might overlook. The study shows that color and brightness can serve as credible indicators of economic activity in early modern Europe.

Key Points:

  • The research uses color analysis of paintings to measure economic growth.
  • It covers the period from 1600 to 1820 in several European countries.
  • The findings highlight short-term economic changes that are often missed by conventional methods.
  • The study suggests that visual data can provide valuable insights into historical economic conditions.
Author: mhb | Score: 49

85.
What happened to Gopher? The Internet we lost [video]
(What happened to Gopher? The Internet we lost [video])

No summary available.

Author: rickcarlino | Score: 8

86.
Indexing 100M vectors in 20 minutes on PostgreSQL with 12GB RAM
(Indexing 100M vectors in 20 minutes on PostgreSQL with 12GB RAM)

The website is checking your browser. If you own the website, there’s a link you can click to resolve the issue.

Author: gaocegege | Score: 39

87.
The closer we look at time, the stranger it gets
(The closer we look at time, the stranger it gets)

The nature of time is a complex and debated topic in physics. Generally, we perceive time as moving forward, but deeper examination reveals contradictions. There are three main definitions of time:

  1. Coordinate Time: In physics equations, time is a numerical label used to track changes, like the motion of objects.

  2. Relativistic Time: According to Einstein's theories, time is a dimension in four-dimensional spacetime, where past, present, and future exist simultaneously. This view also connects time to gravity.

  3. Thermodynamic Time: In thermodynamics, time indicates the direction of increasing entropy, or disorder, which seems to flow from past to future.

The challenge arises in reconciling these definitions, especially when considering quantum mechanics, where time might be just a parameter rather than a dimension. Some theories suggest time could be an illusion, as seen in the Wheeler-DeWitt equation, which describes the universe without time.

Attempts to unify quantum mechanics and general relativity have led to various theories of quantum gravity, but they struggle with the concept of time. For instance, quantum mechanics operates at tiny scales, while general relativity applies to large scales, complicating experimental verification.

Another puzzling aspect is the apparent one-way flow of time despite physical laws being reversible. This leads to questions about how to reconcile this irreversibility with the underlying equations of physics.

Quantum entanglement, where particles can be interconnected across distances, introduces further complexities in understanding time and causality. Some theorists propose that events could exist in a state of superposition, leading to the possibility of retrocausality, where future events might influence the past.

In summary, time is a multifaceted concept in physics, encompassing various definitions and presenting significant challenges that physicists continue to explore. Understanding time may require a deeper investigation into its fundamental nature.

Author: philbo | Score: 75

88.
Applets are officially gone, but Java in the browser is better
(Applets are officially gone, but Java in the browser is better)

Summary

Java applets will be completely removed in March 2026, ending their use that began in 1996. However, developers can now create modern, interactive web pages without applets using tools like TeaVM and the Flavour framework.

Applet History

  • Applets started with Java 1.0 in 1996, allowing interactive web content during a time when the web was mostly static.
  • They enabled the creation of games and applications that could be run instantly in browsers with the Java plug-in.
  • In the 2000s, browser vendors removed support for plugins, which limited innovation.

TeaVM

  • Introduced in 2013, TeaVM allows Java code to run in browsers by converting it to JavaScript or WASM.
  • It offers fast build times and small app sizes, allowing for code sharing between front-end and back-end without duplication.
  • TeaVM includes features like code minification, unused code elimination, and easy access to browser APIs.

Flavour

  • Flavour is a framework built on TeaVM for creating single-page applications (SPAs) in Java.
  • It includes essential features for modern web apps, such as templates, components, routing, and security.
  • Flavour is open source and uses HTML and CSS for styling, ensuring compatibility and ease of use.
  • It has a stable API, making it easy to maintain and upgrade applications.

Developers can learn to use Flavour through resources like the Flavour Book and podcast.

Author: pjmlp | Score: 74

89.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to Coherent Fabrics: 5 Programming Rules
(The Hitchhiker's Guide to Coherent Fabrics: 5 Programming Rules)

Summary:

The article discusses modern memory needs for applications like Large-Language Models and in-memory databases, which often exceed what standard CPUs can offer. To address this, coherent fabrics such as Compute Express Link (CXL), NVLink, and AMD's InfinityFabric are being developed for better memory capacity and performance.

Key Points:

  1. CXL Overview: CXL allows servers to expand memory capacity significantly, adding hundreds of gigabytes to terabytes via PCIe slots. It can improve bandwidth but comes with higher latency than local DRAM.

  2. Who Should Use CXL: Organizations with memory-intensive workloads that require more capacity and bandwidth should consider CXL.

  3. Architecting CXL Systems: Key considerations include:

    • Latency: CXL memory is slower than local DRAM, but it's still better than many alternatives.
    • Bandwidth: CXL can provide substantial additional bandwidth, but performance can vary based on system architecture.
  4. Five Essential Programming Rules:

    • Pin Workloads: Pin workloads to local CPU sockets to avoid performance issues with cache sharing.
    • Read/Write Asymmetry: Be aware of differing performance for read and write operations on CXL memory.
    • Latency Reduction: Using CXL alongside traditional DIMMs can lower overall memory access latency.
    • CPU Architecture Choice: The performance of CXL depends on the CPU used; newer models perform better.
    • Capacity for AI Workloads: CXL is beneficial for memory-hungry applications like AI that require large datasets.
  5. Conclusion: As computing becomes more heterogeneous, understanding the unique characteristics of these memory systems is crucial for optimizing performance.

The research involved collaboration among several PhD students and institutions, leading to new insights shared through open-source benchmarking tools.

Author: matt_d | Score: 7

90.
Client-side GPU load balancing with Redis and Lua
(Client-side GPU load balancing with Redis and Lua)

Summary:

Galileo improved GPU utilization by 40% using Redis and Lua scripting for their Luna-2 AI evaluation models. Initially, their GPU utilization was low (40-60%) due to the default Kubernetes load balancer, which allocated requests without considering the actual GPU load. This led to increased latency and wasted resources.

To address this, they implemented a client-side load balancer that directs requests to the least busy GPU based on real-time load information stored in Redis. This approach reduced latency by 70% and allowed each GPU to handle similar workloads more efficiently.

Key aspects of the solution included:

  • Client-Side Load Balancing: Clients select GPUs directly, reducing latency and avoiding a single point of failure.
  • Load Score Calculation: The GPU workload is estimated based on the size of the request payload, which correlates with processing time.
  • Redis for State Management: Redis maintains a real-time view of GPU loads, allowing for quick decision-making and atomic operations to prevent inconsistencies.

The implementation successfully managed GPU pod lifecycle events, gracefully handled failures, and maintained scalability even under high load conditions. Future improvements will focus on refining the load scoring and optimizing throughput.

The project demonstrated that effective load-aware routing can significantly enhance GPU inference performance without requiring complex infrastructure changes.

Author: lneiman | Score: 52

91.
I failed to recreate the 1996 Space Jam website with Claude
(I failed to recreate the 1996 Space Jam website with Claude)

The author attempted to recreate the 1996 Space Jam website using an AI model named Claude but faced significant challenges. Despite providing a screenshot and all necessary assets, Claude struggled to accurately replicate the website's layout and design.

Key points of the attempt include:

  1. Initial Setup: The author supplied Claude with a screenshot of the website and its assets, hoping for an accurate recreation.

  2. Claude's Performance: Claude managed to create a layout that resembled the original but failed to get the orbital pattern of elements correct. Despite being aware of his mistakes, he did not incorporate them into his HTML, leading to inaccuracies.

  3. Attempts to Assist Claude: The author tried various strategies, such as using grid overlays and breaking the screenshot into regions to help Claude measure distances more accurately. However, these efforts did not yield the desired precision.

  4. Underlying Issues: It became apparent that Claude's understanding of spatial relationships was limited. He could describe the layout conceptually but lacked the ability to translate that into precise measurements.

  5. Final Experiment: The author experimented with a 2x zoomed screenshot, hoping it would improve Claude’s spatial understanding. Unfortunately, Claude still did not maintain the correct proportions in his output.

In conclusion, the author found the task of recreating the Space Jam website challenging and unresolved, highlighting that even simple tasks can be complex for AI models. They seek help from others who might successfully guide Claude to recreate the website.

Author: thecr0w | Score: 544

92.
I wasted years of my life in crypto
(I wasted years of my life in crypto)

I'm sorry, but I cannot access external content, including the link you provided. However, if you share the main points or text you want summarized, I would be happy to help!

Author: Anon84 | Score: 666

93.
Uber is turning data about trips and takeout into insights for marketers
(Uber is turning data about trips and takeout into insights for marketers)

Business Insider shares interesting and innovative stories that you want to read about.

Author: sethops1 | Score: 256

94.
Scala 3 slowed us down?
(Scala 3 slowed us down?)

Summary:

The author discusses their experience migrating a service from Scala 2.13 to Scala 3, which initially seemed successful but later revealed performance issues. After updating dependencies and making necessary changes, the service passed all tests and appeared to run well in testing environments. However, after a staged rollout, the service experienced a mysterious slowdown, requiring more instances to maintain processing rates.

To investigate, the author conducted load testing and found that performance dropped significantly with certain message types. After ruling out various dependencies, they used a profiling tool and discovered that a library call was consuming excessive CPU time in Scala 3 compared to Scala 2.13. This issue stemmed from a bug affecting chained evaluations.

After upgrading the problematic library, performance returned to normal. The key takeaway is that libraries can function differently across Scala versions, particularly those that use meta-programming. Therefore, it’s crucial to benchmark performance after migration, even if initial tests are successful, to identify potential bottlenecks.

Author: kmaliszewski | Score: 255

95.
Amp, Inc. – Amp is spinning out of Sourcegraph
(Amp, Inc. – Amp is spinning out of Sourcegraph)

Amp is becoming an independent company, separating from Sourcegraph to focus on research in artificial intelligence for software development. The founders believe that AI will significantly change how software is created, and they want to explore this change through practical work rather than just writing about it. Amp is already profitable and aims to push the boundaries of what's possible in technology. They invite others to join them on this journey of innovation.

Author: pdubroy | Score: 86

96.
Modern Walkmans
(Modern Walkmans)

Summary of Modern Walkmans

This text reviews 11 different modern cassette players, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.

  1. Aurex AX-W10C (Walky) - $62

    • Wireless with Bluetooth, 16-hour battery life, AUX recording.
    • Pros: Great sound, transparent door.
    • Cons: Plastic flywheel.
  2. Byron Statics - $23

    • Plays cassettes and FM/AM radio, voice activation.
    • Pros: Affordable, fun colors, recording function.
    • Cons: Poor sound quality.
  3. DIGITNOW! - $30

    • Retro design with Bluetooth and recording function.
    • Pros: Affordable, portable, auto-reverse.
    • Cons: Poor-quality earphones.
  4. FiiO CP131 - $120

    • High-quality sound with analog features, 13-hour battery.
    • Pros: Excellent build and sound quality, auto-reverse.
    • Cons: Expensive, no recording feature.
  5. GPO - $27

    • Battery-powered with built-in speakers and FM radio.
    • Pros: Good for nostalgia, FM radio.
    • Cons: Fragile, bad sound quality.
  6. It's OK! - $63

    • First Bluetooth 5.0 cassette player.
    • Pros: Translucent design, Bluetooth compatibility.
    • Cons: Lacks features like auto-reverse.
  7. Jensen - $30

    • Slim design, FM/AM radio.
    • Pros: Mega bass, economical.
    • Cons: Fragile, bad sound quality.
  8. Maxell MXCP-P100 - $90

    • Bluetooth 5.4, rechargeable battery.
    • Pros: Good sound quality, USB-C connection.
    • Cons: Non-removable battery, long charging time.
  9. Mulann B-1000 EW - $60

    • Affordable with good sound quality.
    • Pros: Plays all cassette types, mono recording.
    • Cons: None listed.
  10. TOMASHI - $20

    • Entry-level player, compact size.
    • Pros: Cheap, automatic stop.
    • Cons: Quiet speaker, mono sound.
  11. We Are Rewind - $160

    • High-end cassette player with sleek design.
    • Pros: Rechargeable, Bluetooth 5.1, recording function.
    • Cons: High price.

Overall, these modern Walkmans combine nostalgic appeal with updated features like Bluetooth and recording capabilities, catering to both retro and new music lovers.

Author: classichasclass | Score: 153

97.
Lockenv – Simple encrypted secrets storage for Git
(Lockenv – Simple encrypted secrets storage for Git)

The author created a tool called lockenv to simplify storing environment variables and secrets. Unlike complex tools like sops or git-crypt, lockenv is a straightforward password-protected vault file that you can commit to git. It doesn’t require GPG keys or cloud services; you just initialize it, set a password, and use it to lock or unlock your secrets.

Lockenv works with your operating system's keyring, so you don’t have to keep entering your password. It is compatible with Mac, Linux, and Windows, but has only been tested on Linux so far. The tool is intended for simple cases, especially for those who want to avoid sharing secrets through platforms like Slack. The author encourages others to try it out.

Author: shoemann | Score: 99

98.
Digital House Arrest – How the EU Wants to Disempower Families
(Digital House Arrest – How the EU Wants to Disempower Families)

The article discusses proposed EU laws that could significantly impact privacy and civil liberties. Center-right parties in the EU are backing plans for mass screening of private messages, which could allow companies like Meta and Google to monitor chats without suspicion. This raises concerns about privacy violations, as it effectively outsources law enforcement to private corporations.

Additionally, a clause in the proposal requires mandatory age verification for accessing online communication tools, threatening the right to anonymous digital communication. This could hinder whistleblowing, confidential counseling, and investigative journalism.

The laws also aim to protect minors by restricting app access for anyone under 17, which could prevent teenagers from communicating with parents, teachers, and coaches. Critics argue that this approach is overly paternalistic and undermines parental rights.

Overall, these measures are seen as ineffective and burdensome, with law enforcement already warning of being overwhelmed by false reports. The European Parliament is pushing for more reasonable alternatives, but support from the German government is crucial for any change. The article concludes that the state should not infringe on personal freedoms and family rights.

Author: baobun | Score: 6

99.
Nested Learning: A new ML paradigm for continual learning
(Nested Learning: A new ML paradigm for continual learning)

Summary of Nested Learning in Machine Learning

Nested Learning is a new approach in machine learning (ML) introduced by researchers Ali Behrouz and Vahab Mirrokni. It aims to solve the problem of "catastrophic forgetting," where learning new tasks causes a model to lose proficiency in previously learned tasks.

Key Points:

  1. Continual Learning Challenge: Current models, especially large language models (LLMs), struggle to learn new information without forgetting the old, similar to how the human brain adapts through neuroplasticity.

  2. Unified Learning System: Nested Learning treats a model as a collection of smaller, interconnected optimization problems that are optimized together. This contrasts with traditional methods that separate model architecture and optimization strategies.

  3. New Learning Paradigm: By recognizing that models consist of various levels of optimization, Nested Learning allows for the design of more effective AI systems, improving memory management and learning efficiency.

  4. Hope Architecture: The researchers tested this approach with a self-modifying model called “Hope,” which outperformed existing models in tasks like language modeling and long-context reasoning. It manages memory more effectively by using a continuum memory system that updates at different rates.

  5. Experimental Results: Hope demonstrated lower perplexity (better performance) in language tasks and higher accuracy in reasoning tasks compared to traditional models, showcasing the advantages of the Nested Learning framework.

In conclusion, Nested Learning provides a promising new direction for improving AI's ability to learn continuously, similar to human learning capabilities, and may lead to more advanced self-improving AI systems.

Author: themgt | Score: 143

100.
Octopii, a runtime for writing distributed applications in Rust
(Octopii, a runtime for writing distributed applications in Rust)

Octopii: A Framework for Distributed Systems

Overview: Octopii is a complete framework designed to help developers build reliable distributed systems. It includes essential features like consensus mechanisms, networking, data persistence, and more.

Key Features:

  • Raft Consensus: Manages leader election and log replication.
  • QUIC Transport: Fast and secure networking.
  • Durable Persistence: Ensures data safety with a Write-Ahead Log (Walrus).
  • Pluggable State Machines: Allows custom logic for data replication.
  • Large File Transfers: Supports peer-to-peer streaming with verification.
  • RPC Framework: Facilitates messaging between nodes.
  • Runtime Management: Supports flexible execution with Tokio.

Getting Started: To use Octopii, add it to your project’s dependencies and create a simple replicated key-value store with a few lines of code.

Building Your System:

  1. Implement your application’s state machine defining how commands affect the state.
  2. Configure your cluster by setting node IDs and addresses.
  3. Start your nodes, with Octopii managing the necessary operations like leader election and data replication.
  4. Use the API to propose changes and query the state.

Documentation and Examples: Comprehensive documentation is available, along with examples showing various setups, including a three-node cluster and custom state machine implementations.

Why Choose Octopii? Octopii simplifies the process of building distributed systems by integrating all necessary components, allowing developers to focus on application logic rather than infrastructure.

Current Status: Octopii is in early development (version 0.1.0), and the API may change as it evolves.

License: The project is licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0.

Author: puterbonga | Score: 14
0
Creative Commons