1.Python 3.15’s interpreter for Windows x86-64 should hopefully be 15% faster(Python 3.15’s interpreter for Windows x86-64 should hopefully be 15% faster)
No summary available.
2.The entire New Yorker Archive Is Now Fully Digitized(The entire New Yorker Archive Is Now Fully Digitized)
No summary available.
3.Alzheimer's can be reversed to achieve full neurological recovery in animals(Alzheimer's can be reversed to achieve full neurological recovery in animals)
No summary available.
4.Phoenix: A modern X server written from scratch in Zig(Phoenix: A modern X server written from scratch in Zig)
Phoenix Overview
Phoenix is a new X server created from scratch using the Zig programming language, designed to be a modern alternative to the older Xorg server.
Current Status
- Phoenix is still in development and not ready for general use.
- It can currently run simple applications with hardware-accelerated graphics (using GLX, EGL, or Vulkan) within an existing X server.
Main Goals
- Simplicity: Focus on supporting only essential features of the X11 protocol, suitable for modern applications and hardware from the last 15-20 years.
- Security: Improved security measures, including automatic message parsing and application isolation. Applications will require permission for certain actions, like screen recording.
- Modern Hardware Support: Better support for multiple monitors, HDR, and other new technologies, with no tearing and improved graphics handling.
- New Standards: Development of new standards, such as per-monitor DPI properties for better content scaling.
Compatibility and Features
- Phoenix will work with modern applications, including those that might only run on Wayland in the future.
- It can run nested under X11 or Wayland for testing purposes.
- It will not aim to fully replace Xorg, as Xorg will continue to support more features and older hardware.
Installation and Building
- To install Phoenix, you need to build it using Zig and run specific commands. Uninstallation requires manual file removal since Zig does not currently support an uninstall command.
- For development, you can build it in debug mode and generate protocol documentation.
Dependencies
- Requires Zig 0.14.1 and various libraries for nested mode under X11 and Wayland, as well as for DRM support.
FAQ
- It is often considered easier to write a simple X server than a Wayland compositor, which is why the Phoenix project was initiated.
5.Toys with the highest play-time and lowest clean-up-time(Toys with the highest play-time and lowest clean-up-time)
No summary available.
6.We invited a man into our home at Christmas and he stayed with us for 45 years(We invited a man into our home at Christmas and he stayed with us for 45 years)
No summary available.
7.Tell HN: Merry Christmas(Tell HN: Merry Christmas)
Different cultures celebrate Christmas on various days and in different time zones. However, it's Christmas here, so I wish everyone a Merry Christmas! I hope you find time to relax and be with loved ones, focusing on what matters instead of stressing over perfection. I also send love to those who can't be with their dear ones this Christmas. For more about Christmas traditions, I recommend checking out this article on Christmas markets: Wikipedia link.
8.The First Photographs of Snowflakes Discover the Groundbreaking Microphotography(The First Photographs of Snowflakes Discover the Groundbreaking Microphotography)
No summary available.
9.Project Dropstone: A Neuro-Symbolic Runtime for Long-Horizon Engineering [pdf](Project Dropstone: A Neuro-Symbolic Runtime for Long-Horizon Engineering [pdf])
The text discusses a "Recursive Swarm" architecture aimed at improving efficiency for long engineering tasks (over 24 hours). It highlights two main features:
-
D3 Engine: This feature separates the "Active Workspace" from "Latent History," which significantly reduces computing costs by 99% by using "Trajectory Vectors" instead of traditional token caching.
-
Horizon Mode: It employs a group of 10,000 agents to explore various solution paths, moving away from a straightforward prediction approach.
There is also a mention of a paper on Horizon Mode available in the same directory. Lastly, the author is inquiring if anyone has experience with the "Flash-Gated Consensus" protocol in real-world applications.
10.Mattermost restricted access to old messages after 10000 limit is reached(Mattermost restricted access to old messages after 10000 limit is reached)
No summary available.
11.Who Watches the Waymos? I do [video](Who Watches the Waymos? I do [video])
I'm sorry, but I can't access external links. However, if you provide the text or main ideas you want summarized, I can help you create a concise and easy-to-understand summary.
12.Quantum Error Correction Goes FOOM(Quantum Error Correction Goes FOOM)
No summary available.
13.Self-referencing Page Tables for the x86-Architecture(Self-referencing Page Tables for the x86-Architecture)
Summary of Bachelor Thesis Extended Abstract
The author worked on a bachelor thesis about operating system development, which was completed six months ago but is still part of their role as a student research assistant. Initially, the project involved coding for an internal research kernel, but it has now been adapted to an open-source kernel called eduOS, which is used for educational purposes at their university.
The thesis discusses a technique for managing memory in x86 architectures, specifically using "self-referencing page tables." This method simplifies the handling of virtual address spaces (VAS) by allowing the operating system to access page tables directly without complex mappings. This results in shorter and more maintainable code, supporting both 32-bit and 64-bit systems with a single codebase.
The key innovation is that by adding a self-reference in the root page table, the need for manual mappings is eliminated, which reduces complexity and memory usage. The author explains how this self-reference works and shows that it maintains essential memory protection properties.
Despite the thesis's rejection from a research competition, the author sees this as an opportunity to share their findings with a broader audience. Full details, including a PDF of the extended abstract, are available for download.
14.Ruby 4.0.0(Ruby 4.0.0)
Summary of Ruby 4.0.0 Release
Released on December 25, 2025, Ruby 4.0.0 introduces new features and improvements, including:
-
Ruby Box: An experimental feature that allows isolation of code definitions. This helps protect tests and applications from interference by separating changes and libraries. It can be activated with the environment variable
RUBY_BOX=1. -
ZJIT: A new just-in-time (JIT) compiler that improves performance. It requires Rust 1.85.0 or later for building Ruby. While ZJIT is faster than the traditional interpreter, it is still slower than the previous YJIT. Users are encouraged to try ZJIT but should avoid using it in production for now.
-
Ractor Improvements: Enhancements to Ruby's parallel execution mechanism, including a new class for message communication (Ractor::Port) and better performance through reduced global lock contention.
-
Language Changes:
- Some logical operators can now be placed at the start of a line.
- Changes to how
niland other core classes behave, including updates to Array and Binding classes.
-
Core Class Updates:
- New methods and features added to various classes like Array, Binding, Enumerator, and more.
- Pathname is now a core class.
-
Compatibility and C API Changes: Some methods and behaviors have been deprecated or removed to streamline the API.
-
Performance Enhancements: Improvements in garbage collection, object allocation, and method cache lookups contribute to overall better performance.
-
Download Links: Ruby 4.0.0 is available for download in various formats (tar.gz, tar.xz, zip).
This release marks a significant step in Ruby's evolution with a focus on performance and improved parallel execution capabilities while introducing new experimental features.
15.Fabrice Bellard: Biography (2009) [pdf](Fabrice Bellard: Biography (2009) [pdf])
Fabrice Bellard is a notable but lesser-known figure in computer science, recognized for his significant contributions over the past 20 years. Born in 1972 in Grenoble, France, he developed an early interest in electronics and programming, starting with a scientific calculator and later moving to personal computers.
At age 15, Bellard created LZEXE, a pioneering executable file compression method, showcasing his talent in programming. He further honed his skills at the prestigious École Polytechnique, where he studied a broad curriculum, emphasizing critical thinking and a strong foundation in computer science.
Bellard's work spans various fields, including digital signal processing and processor emulation. Notable projects include:
- FFmpeg: A powerful multimedia framework for recording, streaming, and converting audio and video formats, which has become widely used in applications like VLC.
- TinyGL: A compact implementation of OpenGL, designed for efficiency and speed.
- QEMU: A processor emulator that allows software to run on different hardware architectures, notable for its performance and flexibility.
Bellard champions open-source principles, freely sharing his work to benefit others rather than seeking fame or profit. He emphasizes the importance of a solid understanding of computer fundamentals and continues to work on projects, currently focusing on optimizing digital signal processing for multicore processors.
16.How do I bridge the gap between PhD and SWE experiences?(How do I bridge the gap between PhD and SWE experiences?)
After completing a PhD in earth sciences, I switched to software engineering and have worked as a full-stack developer for 8 years. Now, I want to combine my scientific knowledge with my engineering skills, but I’m struggling to find job opportunities that value both. I enjoy development, but I feel my scientific background is underutilized. I'm looking for advice from others who have successfully integrated these two fields: Did you find a unique job, or did you create one? How do you present yourself when your skills seem to belong to different areas?
17.Minimalist editor that lives in browser, stores everything in the URL(Minimalist editor that lives in browser, stores everything in the URL)
The author created a simple notes app using just a single HTML file without any frameworks or additional tools. Here are the key features:
- The app is lightweight, consisting of 111 lines of code.
- Notes are stored in the URL hash, making them easy to share.
- It uses CompressionStream for auto-compression.
- The app has a plain-text editor that users can edit directly.
- It includes history support and sets the page title based on the first heading.
- It adapts to light and dark mode.
- There’s no use of storage, cookies, or user tracking.
- The entire application is contained within the page source.
You can check it out at textarea.my.
18.Asterisk AI Voice Agent(Asterisk AI Voice Agent)
No summary available.
19.The Fisher-Yates shuffle is backward(The Fisher-Yates shuffle is backward)
The Fisher-Yates shuffle is a well-known algorithm for shuffling a list, ensuring that each possible arrangement is equally likely. The standard implementation, called the Fisher-Yates shuffle, works by iterating backward through the list and swapping elements based on a random index.
However, the author proposes a simpler version called the "forward shuffle," which iterates forward through the list. The main difference is in the direction of the loop, but both methods achieve the same result of uniformly shuffling the elements.
The forward shuffle, like the Fisher-Yates shuffle, maintains that after each iteration, the portion of the list processed is a random permutation of the original elements. The author also discusses an "inside-out" version that works similarly for lists generated from other sources.
Overall, the text highlights the validity of the forward shuffle and suggests it might be more straightforward than the traditional approach, questioning why it isn't more commonly used.
20.CSRF protection without tokens or hidden form fields(CSRF protection without tokens or hidden form fields)
Summary: CSRF Protection without Tokens or Hidden Form Fields
In December 2025, the author explored implementing Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) protection for their web framework, Microdot. Initially, they planned to use traditional methods like anti-CSRF tokens, but discovered a simpler, modern approach.
The new method leverages the "Sec-Fetch-Site" header, which modern browsers include in requests. This header indicates the request's origin and can be trusted, allowing servers to reject cross-site requests. The author implemented this approach after researching its validity and compatibility.
However, they acknowledged challenges, such as users on older browsers that don't support this header. To address this, they decided to use the "Origin" header as a backup. They also integrated existing Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) support to manage allowed origins.
The author noted that the OWASP CSRF Cheat Sheet was updated to include this method but initially categorized it as a secondary defense rather than a primary solution. They believe the new approach aligns with the minimalist philosophy of Microdot and plan to monitor further developments in OWASP guidelines.
Overall, the author found this journey rewarding and educational, transforming a tedious task into an exciting opportunity for learning and growth in open-source development.
21.Fabrice Bellard Releases MicroQuickJS(Fabrice Bellard Releases MicroQuickJS)
MicroQuickJS Summary
MicroQuickJS (MQuickJS) is a lightweight JavaScript engine designed for embedded systems, using only 10 kB of RAM and about 100 kB of ROM. It runs JavaScript programs quickly and supports a subset of JavaScript close to ES5, enforcing stricter coding rules to avoid common errors.
Key Features:
- Memory Efficiency: Uses minimal RAM and ROM, ideal for embedded applications.
- Stricter Mode: Only allows certain JavaScript constructs, preventing errors:
- No "with" keyword; variables must be declared.
- Arrays cannot have empty slots (no "holes").
- Only global
evalis supported; local variable access is restricted.
- Garbage Collection: Employs a tracing garbage collector instead of reference counting for better memory handling.
- Standard Library: Compiled into C structures for fast instantiation with minimal RAM use.
Usage:
- REPL Tool: Run scripts and evaluate expressions interactively with
mqjs. - Bytecode Compilation: Can compile JavaScript code into bytecode for storage and later execution.
Limitations:
- Only supports a strict subset of JavaScript, with no value boxing or direct
eval. - Some features like regular expressions and certain string functions are limited to ASCII.
C API:
- Minimal dependency on the C library, with its own memory management.
- Uses pointers to handle JavaScript values due to potential memory relocation.
Internal Differences from QuickJS:
- Uses a compacting garbage collector to avoid memory fragmentation.
- String representation is in UTF-8, ensuring compatibility with JavaScript.
License:
MQuickJS is available under the MIT license, with the source code authored by Fabrice Bellard and Charlie Gordon.
22.Vibium – Browser automation for AI and humans, by Selenium's creator(Vibium – Browser automation for AI and humans, by Selenium's creator)
The author started the Selenium project 21 years ago and has now created a new project called Vibium, designed for modern AI agents. Vibium runs in the background (managing browsers and other tasks), but developers only need to use a simple command: "npm install vibium." Versions for Python and Java are coming soon. For Claude code integration, the command is "claude mcp add vibium -- npx -y vibium." The first version is released today, and the author invites questions.
23.Research team digitizes more than 100 years of Canadian infectious disease data(Research team digitizes more than 100 years of Canadian infectious disease data)
A McMaster University research team has created a new public database called the Canadian Notifiable Disease Incidence Dataset (CANDID), which digitizes over 100 years of Canadian infectious disease data. This dataset includes more than a million records dating back to 1903 and covers diseases like polio, hepatitis, and influenza. It provides detailed weekly, monthly, and quarterly case counts across provinces and territories.
The project began when Professor David Earn discovered old epidemiological documents at the Ontario Ministry of Health. With support from a recent grant, his team worked to curate and organize this data for analysis. The new dataset aims to improve understanding of past disease outbreaks and enhance public health preparedness for future epidemics.
Earn highlights that the current infectious disease reporting in Canada is limited, as it only provides annual national counts, which hinders research. He advocates for better data sharing practices that protect patient privacy while allowing more detailed information to be available for public health research.
24.Exploring Mathematics with Python(Exploring Mathematics with Python)
No summary available.
25.JEDEC developing reduced pin count HBM4 standard to enable higher capacity(JEDEC developing reduced pin count HBM4 standard to enable higher capacity)
No summary available.
26.Using Vectorize to build an unreasonably good search engine in 160 lines of code(Using Vectorize to build an unreasonably good search engine in 160 lines of code)
The text discusses how AI has improved search functionality and made it easier to implement. It uses a project called Braggoscope, which is a directory of BBC Radio 4’s show "In Our Time," as an example. The site allows users to search for episodes using both specific terms and related phrases, thanks to a semantic search feature built using AI.
Key points include:
-
AI and Search: AI has made search technology more effective and simpler to create, enabling features like semantic search.
-
Embeddings and Vector Databases:
- Embeddings convert text into high-dimensional vectors, allowing for search based on semantic similarity.
- A vector database stores these embeddings and enables fast searches for similar content.
-
Building the Search Engine:
- The author outlines steps to create a search engine using PartyKit, which involves setting up a web UI, configuring a vector database, and indexing content.
- Users can index episodes from the Braggoscope site into a vector database to enable quick searches.
-
Querying: The search functionality involves converting user queries into embeddings and finding the nearest matches in the vector database.
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Integration and Testing: The author provides steps for integrating the search engine with a web application and testing it using simple commands.
-
Broader Uses of Vector Databases: Beyond search, vector databases are also used in advanced AI applications like chatbots and real-time assistance.
The text encourages readers to explore PartyKit's documentation to start building their projects.
27.Comptime – C# meta-programming with compile-time code generation and evaluation(Comptime – C# meta-programming with compile-time code generation and evaluation)
Comptime Overview
Comptime is a .NET source generator that allows developers to execute methods during compilation and convert their results into C# code. This feature enables compile-time code generation, which can lead to faster application startup and execution by moving complex calculations from runtime to compile time.
Key Features:
- Compile-Time Execution: Use the
[Comptime]attribute to mark methods for execution during compilation. - Parameter Support: Methods can accept compile-time constant expressions as parameters.
- Serialization to C#: Results are converted into valid C# code, ready for use at runtime.
- Return Types: Supports various types like primitive types, collections (e.g.,
IReadOnlyList<T>), but not mutable types like arrays. - Argument Types: Accepts literals, collection initializers, and constant expressions.
Usage Examples:
- Calculating Prime Numbers:
[Comptime] public static IReadOnlyList<int> GetPrimeNumbers() { /* ... */ } - Factorial Calculation:
[Comptime] public static long Factorial(int n) { /* ... */ } - Sum of Numbers:
[Comptime] public static int SumList(IReadOnlyList<int> numbers) { /* ... */ }
Requirements:
- .NET 8.0 or later
- C# 12 or later
Installation: Include the package with <PackageReference Include="Comptime" Version="1.0.0" />.
How It Works:
- The source generator identifies methods marked with
[Comptime]. - It executes these methods for each unique argument combination at compile time.
- The results are serialized into C# literals or expressions for runtime use.
Limitations:
- Methods must be static and the containing class partial.
- Return types must be immutable and arguments must be constant expressions.
- Methods should not have side effects dependent on runtime state.
License: MIT License.
28.Handheld PC Community Forums(Handheld PC Community Forums)
No summary available.
29.Nvidia to buy assets from Groq for $20B cash(Nvidia to buy assets from Groq for $20B cash)
Groq and NVIDIA have formed a non-exclusive agreement to share technology for AI inference. This partnership aims to speed up AI processing on a global scale.
30.The next-gen mainboard designed with amigaos4 and morphos in mind(The next-gen mainboard designed with amigaos4 and morphos in mind)
Summary:
Trevor Dickinson has played a vital role in the Amiga community, supporting the development of new hardware and software like the ExecSG Kernel and Radeon Graphics drivers.
The Amiga, once a leading personal computer, faced uncertainty due to limited next-gen hardware and reduced support for AmigaOS4. However, a group of passionate Dutch enthusiasts decided to create an affordable next-gen Amiga mainboard to revitalize the platform.
Their goal is to develop a powerful and low-cost mainboard that can run all AmigaOS software and games, despite facing various challenges in production and software compatibility.
The efforts of these individuals highlight the strength of community collaboration in achieving technological advancements. Updates on the Mirari Amiga mainboard project will be shared as it progresses.
The future of the Amiga is now in the hands of its dedicated supporters.
31.The port I couldn't ship(The port I couldn't ship)
The text discusses the author's attempts to port a Perl library called Graph::Easy, which creates ASCII art flowcharts, to the web.
Key points include:
-
Inspiration: The author was inspired by Simon Willison's use of a tool called Claude to bring older libraries to the web and wanted to do the same with Graph::Easy.
-
Initial Success: The author successfully created a web app using Claude to run Graph::Easy locally but faced challenges when trying to port the library to TypeScript.
-
Challenges Faced:
- The first attempt failed because the ASCII output did not match the original.
- Subsequent attempts involved a Test Driven Development (TDD) approach, but many tests failed due to the complexity of ASCII rendering, which large language models (LLMs) struggle to understand.
- The author tried breaking down the work into simpler tasks but still faced issues with accuracy.
-
Frustration: The process was exhausting, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction with the progress. The author felt overwhelmed by the complexity of the original library and the limitations of the AI tools.
-
Realization: Ultimately, the author recognized that the complexity of Graph::Easy was a result of years of development, which cannot simply be replicated by AI. They concluded that replicating such intricate work requires a deep understanding of the craft, something that AI alone could not achieve.
The text emphasizes the challenges of using AI for complex programming tasks and the importance of respecting the intricacies of established codebases.
32.I'm returning my Framework 16(I'm returning my Framework 16)
The author is returning their Framework laptop due to dissatisfaction with its performance and design. They currently own an older X1 Carbon laptop, which has keyboard issues and has been frustrating to maintain. After considering several options for Linux-compatible laptops, they chose the Framework due to its upgradable and repairable features.
The author purchased the Framework 16 model, appreciating its larger size compared to their X1 Carbon. However, they found the assembly process straightforward but noted several design flaws, such as a bulky weight, poor display quality, overly bright power LED, and disappointing speakers. The laptop's performance was decent, but issues like flickering display and battery drain during sleep were concerning.
Ultimately, the author believes the Framework 16 does not justify its high price of around €2000, feeling it lacks the premium quality expected at that cost. They have requested a return and are unsure what to replace it with, considering other brands that also have similar issues. For now, they will continue using their X1 Carbon.
33.Prototaxites(Prototaxites)
Summary:
Prototaxites was an ancient, extinct group of large multicellular organisms that lived on land during the Early Devonian period, reaching heights of up to 8 meters. Its classification has been debated for over 165 years, with suggestions of it being either a type of fungus or a completely unique lineage. Recent research indicates that Prototaxites, specifically Prototaxites taiti, is fundamentally different from known fungi, both in its anatomy and molecular structure.
Studies show that its cell walls contain materials similar to lignin, rather than chitin, which is found in all fungi. Therefore, researchers conclude that Prototaxites is not a fungus but belongs to an entirely separate, extinct group of terrestrial life.
34.Jingle Bells (Batman Smells): An incomplete festive folk-rhyme taxonomy(Jingle Bells (Batman Smells): An incomplete festive folk-rhyme taxonomy)
The blog post by Kate W. discusses the variations of the playground song "Jingle Bells (Batman Smells)." Kate asked people on BlueSky about their memories of the song, revealing a wide range of different versions.
She noted that many American versions center around a specific rhyme involving Robin laying an egg, while UK versions feature more diversity, with Robin often flying or running away. A significant difference is that American versions are more clustered around a single popular form, likely influenced by its appearance in "The Simpsons," while UK versions are more varied and often include local references.
Kate also highlights the historical background of "Jingle Bells," originally composed in 1857, and speculates on how children's adaptations of the song may have evolved over time. She humorously mentions a rare version without Batman, suggesting that some variations may be "living fossils" of older rhymes.
In conclusion, she invites readers to enjoy the diversity of these playful adaptations and wishes everyone a Merry Christmas.
35.LimeWire re-emerges in online rush to share pulled "60 Minutes" segment(LimeWire re-emerges in online rush to share pulled "60 Minutes" segment)
A controversial segment of CBS's "60 Minutes," called "Inside CECOT," has gained attention after being blocked from airing by CBS editor-in-chief Bari Weiss. The report included testimonies from U.S. deportees who suffered abuse in a Salvadoran prison. Weiss pulled the segment, claiming it lacked critical voices, specifically from Trump officials, and did not contribute new information.
Despite this, the segment continued streaming in Canada, allowing viewers to access it through a VPN. Critics quickly shared the report online, including on file-sharing sites and the revived service LimeWire, which was once notorious for piracy. This led to jokes on Reddit about LimeWire’s unexpected comeback as a tool for bypassing censorship.
Weiss’s decision has faced backlash, raising concerns about journalistic integrity and the influence of political pressures on news reporting. CBS staff and industry observers criticized the move, suggesting it undermined the independence of the newsroom.
36.No Longer Evil – new life for dead/outdated Nest Generation 1 and 2 thermostats(No Longer Evil – new life for dead/outdated Nest Generation 1 and 2 thermostats)
Summary:
The project "No Longer Evil" helps revive old Nest Generation 1 and 2 thermostats that are no longer functional. By using custom software, users can transform these devices into modern, usable thermostats with an easy-to-use control interface. Key features include:
- Revival of Old Hardware: Bring your bricked thermostats back to life with new firmware.
- Full Control: Adjust settings and monitor status easily through a sleek interface.
- Open Source: The software is free, community-driven, and can be modified and shared. It can be installed as a Progressive Web App (PWA) for control from any device.
This initiative aims to reduce electronic waste and keep working devices out of landfills. The project is fully open source and supports both Generation 1 and 2 thermostats.
37.Keystone (YC S25) is hiring engineer #1 to automate coding(Keystone (YC S25) is hiring engineer #1 to automate coding)
No summary available.
38.Free Software Foundation receives historic private donations(Free Software Foundation receives historic private donations)
No summary available.
39.The dawn of a world simulator(The dawn of a world simulator)
Summary:
A new AI lab, Odyssey, is developing a general-purpose world simulator that learns to predict how the world changes over time using large amounts of video and interaction data. This approach uses simple prediction tasks, like forecasting the next frame of a video, to build models that understand complex structures such as causality and dynamics without needing pre-defined rules.
The world simulator, named Odyssey-2, learns from observations rather than hand-crafted simulations, allowing it to adapt and predict a wider range of phenomena. This model is designed to maintain internal states over time, which is crucial for making accurate predictions about long-term scenarios.
Current simulators are often limited to specific tasks, but Odyssey's approach enables a more flexible, general simulation that can evolve based on user interactions. This allows for real-time, interactive simulations where users can engage continuously and see immediate results.
The goal is to create a comprehensive tool that can test cause and effect in complex systems without needing separate models for each scenario. Odyssey is open to collaboration with researchers interested in advancing this innovative approach to world simulation.
40.A faster path to container images in Bazel(A faster path to container images in Bazel)
Summary of rules_img for Bazel Container Images
On December 18, 2025, Malte Poll introduced rules_img, a new approach for building container images in Bazel that improves efficiency and speed. Here's a simplified overview:
The Problem: When using Bazel to package applications into Docker containers, builds often become slow due to the large amount of base image data being downloaded and uploaded. This can hinder continuous integration (CI) performance.
Key Components:
- Registry: A server (like Docker Hub) that stores container images.
- Local Machine: Where Bazel builds run.
- Remote Execution/Cache: Servers that execute Bazel actions and cache results.
How rules_img Works:
- Minimal Data Transfer: Instead of downloading entire base images, rules_img focuses on pulling only the essential metadata (like manifest and config), which is only about 10 KB. The actual image layers stay in the registry until needed.
- Layer Creation: Layers are built and stored in a way that only metadata is handled during the build phase, allowing for faster processing and better caching.
- Efficient Pushing and Loading: During the runtime phase, rules_img checks the registry for existing blobs and only transfers the missing ones, streamlining the push process.
Benefits:
- Speed: Pulling and pushing images is significantly faster, reducing build times from minutes to seconds.
- Efficiency: Less data is moved during builds, improving CI performance and reducing unnecessary uploads.
- Simplified Processes: The system treats images more like metadata, which allows for more efficient handling of container images within Bazel.
Conclusion: rules_img aims to make the process of working with container images in Bazel faster and more efficient, resulting in better performance in CI environments and a smoother experience for developers. For those looking to implement this, a quick start guide is available on their GitHub page.
41.Lessons from the PG&E outage(Lessons from the PG&E outage)
Waymo aims to be the most trusted autonomous driver, and recently faced a challenge during a major power outage in San Francisco caused by PG&E, which affected traffic signals and led to city-wide congestion. Despite successfully navigating over 7,000 dark signals, the outage caused a spike in requests for confirmation checks, leading to delays and more congestion.
To manage the situation, Waymo temporarily paused its service to avoid adding to the traffic and obstructing emergency responders. They are now refining their protocols to better handle future outages by providing their vehicles with more context about power disruptions and improving emergency response plans.
Waymo has trained over 25,000 first responders on how to work with their technology and will continue to enhance this training based on insights gained from the outage. They are committed to improving road safety and serving the San Francisco community, backed by extensive autonomous driving experience.
42.Google's year in review: areas with research breakthroughs in 2025(Google's year in review: areas with research breakthroughs in 2025)
In 2025, Google achieved major advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting the following key points:
-
AI Model Improvements: Google released powerful AI models like Gemini 3 and Gemma 3, which enhanced reasoning, multimodality, and efficiency, transforming products like Pixel 10 and Search.
-
Scientific Contributions: AI played a crucial role in various scientific fields, including genomics and healthcare, aiding in disease treatment and research, exemplified by the success of AlphaFold in solving protein folding.
-
Product Innovation: Google integrated AI into its products, creating tools that assist developers and enhance user experiences, such as new coding capabilities and AI features in devices and applications.
-
Creative Empowerment: AI tools for generative media improved, enabling users to create video, audio, and images more effectively, significantly enhancing creative workflows.
-
Global Challenges: AI was applied to address critical issues like climate change and public health, with advancements in weather forecasting and urban planning benefiting millions globally.
-
Safety and Responsibility: Google emphasized the importance of responsible AI development, implementing safety measures and collaborating with various sectors to ensure secure and ethical AI use.
-
Collaborative Efforts: Google strengthened partnerships with educational institutions and research organizations to promote AI literacy and collaborative innovation.
Overall, 2025 marked a year of significant AI progress for Google, improving technology and addressing global challenges while focusing on safety and collaboration.
43.Avoid Mini-Frameworks(Avoid Mini-Frameworks)
Summary: Avoid Mini-Frameworks
What are Mini-Frameworks? Mini-frameworks are small frameworks created by teams to address specific issues in a shared tech stack. They introduce new concepts and often claim to simplify development but can cause more problems.
My Experience: The author shares their experience working with a mini-framework at Google. A team decided to add an abstraction layer to an existing framework to make it easier to use, but this led to complications, slower development, and frustration among team members.
Why Mini-Frameworks Are Problematic:
- Incomplete Features: They often fail to cover all use cases and can lack necessary flexibility.
- Difficult to Change: They only address current needs and may struggle to adapt to future requirements.
- Personal Bias: They reflect the creator’s mental model, which may not align with others' ways of thinking.
- Tech Fragmentation: They can lead to inconsistent codebases as different teams use different frameworks.
- Lack of Maintenance: They often rely on a few individuals, making them vulnerable when those people leave.
What to Do Instead:
- Avoid Mini-Frameworks: Focus on creating libraries that don’t introduce new concepts.
- Justify Framework Creation: If a framework is necessary, ensure it ties closely to business needs and build it from scratch rather than wrapping existing frameworks.
- Take It Seriously: Understand the implications of creating frameworks and treat the process with the seriousness it deserves.
In summary, it's crucial to be cautious when introducing new frameworks and to prioritize clarity and maintainability in software development.
44.Qntm's Power Tower Toy(Qntm's Power Tower Toy)
No summary available.
45.My 2026 Open Social Web Predictions(My 2026 Open Social Web Predictions)
I'm unable to access external links directly. However, if you provide me with the text or main points from the article, I can help you summarize it!
46.Some Epstein file redactions are being undone(Some Epstein file redactions are being undone)
The text contains links to various online sources related to unredacted files about Jeffrey Epstein. It suggests that some documents have recently been made available without redactions, allowing for more transparency on the matter. The focus is on sharing these updates and resources for those interested in the Epstein case.
47.How I Left YouTube(How I Left YouTube)
Summary: How I Left YouTube
The author shares their experience of leaving YouTube after struggling to get promoted despite significant contributions. They were working at a level much higher than their official title, which affected their salary and recognition. After multiple failed promotion attempts, they decided to seek a new job that would reflect their true worth.
Job hunting while still employed was challenging, requiring a lot of effort and time management. They had to navigate strict Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to present their skills without revealing sensitive information. The author learned to focus on general engineering principles instead of specific projects.
They faced a long interview process, particularly at one company that required 13 interviews, signaling potential issues within its hiring culture. The author had a heartfelt conversation with their manager when resigning, expressing that they needed to grow beyond their current role.
In the end, the author emphasizes that leaving a well-known company can be daunting, but staying in a role that doesn’t match your capabilities can hinder progress. They encourage others feeling similarly to consider testing the job market for better opportunities.
48.Making a game on a custom bytecode VM in 7 days and 3kB(Making a game on a custom bytecode VM in 7 days and 3kB)
In a recent project, the author created a shoot ’em up game in just 7 days, resulting in a small 3kB Windows executable. This was part of the Langjam Gamejam, where participants create a programming language and use it to develop a game. The author’s interests in language design, game development, and size constraints motivated this project.
The plan included designing a language, implementing a compiler in F#, creating a bytecode interpreter in C++, and rendering graphics using a single shader. The game’s size was kept minimal by avoiding music and 3D graphics.
A live-coding workflow allowed for instant feedback during development, making it easier to iterate on the game. The bytecode design was minimalist, using only float arrays and two types of statements: updating array cells and jumping to other instructions. The language supported basic structures like assignments and loops but was kept simple to fit the size constraints.
The game design features infinite gameplay, starting with three enemies and increasing their number over time. Enemies are teleported out of the game instead of being destroyed when hit, simplifying the code. The quick iteration process was crucial for development, revealing necessary features as the game was built.
In a comparison, the bytecode version of the game was even smaller than a C++ version without the interpreter, demonstrating the efficiency of the bytecode approach. Overall, the project was enjoyable and provided valuable learning experiences, with the author looking forward to future game development explorations.
49.Your inbox is a bandit problem(Your inbox is a bandit problem)
The text discusses how to effectively manage email and small tasks that can disrupt focus, likening the inbox to a "bandit" that steals time and concentration. Here are the key points:
-
Inbox as a Bandit: Similar to choosing between slot machines, deciding which emails to read can be mentally exhausting. It often leads to suboptimal choices and distractions.
-
Common Strategies: Techniques like Inbox Zero and Getting Things Done are popular but may not suit everyone. The author prefers a more personalized approach.
-
Personal Context: The author manages a single inbox and often receives small, low-priority tasks via email that disrupt concentration.
-
Snoozing Emails: Using email snooze functions hasn’t worked due to overthinking, unexpected tasks, and distractions from other emails.
-
Proposed Solution: The author created a new Gmail label called "DBTC" (Death By a Thousand Cuts) for non-urgent tasks. Emails that distract but don’t need immediate attention can be moved here, reducing visual clutter.
-
Processing DBTC: The author sets aside specific times to process this folder, allowing focused attention without distractions from other emails.
-
Extending the Concept: The DBTC approach is applied to other communication tools and task managers to streamline handling of non-urgent tasks.
-
Conclusion: This method has proven effective for the author since March 2021, and they hope others find it useful too.
50.Quake's Player Speed (2017)(Quake's Player Speed (2017))
In 1996, while developing Quake, the team faced challenges due to the limitations of early internet downloads. They set a maximum size of 1.4 megabytes for map files, called BSP files, which meant they had to carefully manage the complexity of the levels. If the polygon count exceeded 350, a flickering screen would alert them, prompting changes to keep the game's performance smooth.
The level editor, QuakeEd, was basic and difficult to use, involving a 3D rectangle "brush" that they manipulated to create the game’s environments. They had limited viewing options, which made the design process time-consuming.
To maximize gameplay within the size constraints, John Carmack decided to reduce the player's speed, allowing players to take longer to complete levels. This decision was influenced by the need to keep levels smaller and more manageable due to the file size limit, ultimately enhancing the game's overall experience.
51.Microsoft please get your tab to autocomplete shit together(Microsoft please get your tab to autocomplete shit together)
The author, Ivan Castellanos, expresses frustration about the autocomplete feature in Visual Studio Code (VSCode) not working properly. He points out that pressing the tab key does not suggest the expected options and instead offers unrelated suggestions. Ivan urges the team responsible for the C# Dev Kit plugin to fix this issue. He is a software developer with 15 years of experience and is seeking remote job opportunities in frontend and backend development. His skills include React, Node.js, Python, TypeScript, PHP, and C# (Unity). Interested parties can contact him at [email protected].
52.map::operator[] should be nodiscard(map::operator[] should be nodiscard)
The text discusses the use of the [[nodiscard]] attribute in C++17, particularly in the context of the libc++ library. This attribute warns programmers when a function's return value is ignored, which can help catch bugs. While some functions, like malloc, should always be marked with [[nodiscard]], others, like unique_ptr::release, are often left unmarked because they can be validly used for their side effects.
Recently, there was a proposal to mark the map::operator[] function as [[nodiscard]]. However, it was discovered that many codebases, including Google's, use this operator for its side effects, making the attribute inappropriate in those cases. For example, the operator might be used in a way that checks if a key exists in a map without intending to use the return value, which could lead to confusion if the code were refactored incorrectly.
Ultimately, libc++ decided to remove the [[nodiscard]] attribute from map::operator[] after realizing it could cause more confusion than benefit. The text advises developers to avoid the idiom of using m[key]; and suggests replacing it with m.try_emplace(key); or using (void)m[key]; to clarify intent and improve code quality.
53.Two ancient humans, including famed 'Iceman,' had cancer-causing virus(Two ancient humans, including famed 'Iceman,' had cancer-causing virus)
Scientists have discovered that Ötzi, a 5,000-year-old mummy found in the Alps, and a 45,000-year-old Homo sapiens fossil from Siberia contain DNA from the cancer-causing human papillomavirus (HPV16). This finding suggests that humans have been infected by HPV for a very long time, possibly since modern humans encountered the virus around 60,000 years ago, potentially through interbreeding with Neanderthals.
HPV is common, with many types causing no harm, but some can lead to cancers. Vaccines have been available since 2006 to prevent the most dangerous types. However, there are concerns that other HPV types may increase in the absence of the targeted ones.
The research team, led by Marcelo Briones, analyzed DNA sequences from Ötzi and another ancient human fossil, finding evidence of HPV16. They ruled out random occurrences and confirmed that the virus has been circulating among humans for thousands of years. This challenges the notion that HPV was primarily introduced to humans through Neanderthal interbreeding.
While these findings enhance our understanding of HPV's history, they may not directly lead to improved vaccines or treatments.
54.2D Signed Distance Functions(2D Signed Distance Functions)
This article discusses creating 2D distance functions for various shapes, similar to a previous article focused on 3D shapes. The goal is to accurately represent 2D primitives, as these shapes are often used to generate 3D objects through extrusion or revolution.
Key Points:
- The author provides efficient distance functions for several 2D shapes, minimizing the use of square roots and divisions for better performance.
- Each primitive shape has an associated real-time demo link on Shadertoy, which showcases the functions in action.
- All formulas and code are created by the author, inviting feedback for potential improvements or corrections.
Primitives Overview:
Shapes are centered at the origin, and transformations are needed for rotation, translation, and scaling. Examples of shapes discussed include:
- Circle
- Rounded Box
- Chamfer Box
- Box
- Segment
- Triangles (Equilateral, Isosceles, etc.)
- Polygons (Pentagon, Hexagon, etc.)
- Ellipse
- Parabola
- Various complex shapes (e.g., Heart, Star, Moon)
Shape Modifications:
- Rounding Shapes: Shapes can be made rounded by subtracting a constant from their distance function.
- Creating Annular Shapes: Shapes can be turned into annular forms by taking the absolute value of their distance function and then subtracting a constant.
The article concludes by noting that many techniques from 3D shape creation, such as boolean operations and smooth connections, also apply to 2D shapes.
55.X-ray: a Python library for finding bad redactions in PDF documents(X-ray: a Python library for finding bad redactions in PDF documents)
Summary of X-Ray Library
X-Ray is a Python library designed to identify poorly executed redactions in PDF documents. At Free Law Project, we handle millions of PDFs, and a common issue is that users often fail to properly redact sensitive information. Instead of securely removing text, they simply cover it with a black rectangle, which can still allow the text to be read underneath.
To address this problem, we developed X-Ray, which analyzes PDFs and detects ineffective redactions. Users can run the tool by providing a PDF file path or a URL, and it will report any bad redactions found.
Installation and Usage:
- Install X-Ray using:
uv add x-rayorpip install x-ray.
- Use the command line to analyze PDFs:
- For local files:
xray path/to/your/file.pdf. - For online files:
xray https://example.com/file.pdf.
- For local files:
- X-Ray outputs results in JSON format, showing the page number, rectangle position, and text found under bad redactions.
Technical Details: X-Ray utilizes the PyMuPDF library to parse PDFs. It identifies rectangles, checks for text within those areas, and assesses the color uniformity to determine if a redaction is valid. Although X-Ray works effectively, there is room for improvement, and contributions are welcome.
Contributions and Deployment: Contributors can find tasks on the GitHub issues list and are required to sign a contributor license agreement. Releases are automated through GitHub Actions, and manual version updates are also supported.
License: X-Ray is released under a permissive BSD license, making it easy to use in other projects.
56.When compilers surprise you(When compilers surprise you)
The text lists various tags and categories related to a blog or website. These tags include topics such as AI, coding, games, personal experiences, and specific projects like the WeeBox Project. There is also a mention of an archive section and an "About" section that provides information about the author and contact details. The content seems to cover a range of interests, including technology and personal travel.
57.Don't Become the Machine(Don't Become the Machine)
The text discusses the idea that measuring a person's worth solely by their productivity is harmful. It suggests that reducing one's existence to output or work is a form of slavery. The message emphasizes the importance of recognizing human value beyond work and productivity, urging individuals not to become trapped in a mindset that equates their identity with how much they produce.
58.Spaced repetition for efficient learning (2019)(Spaced repetition for efficient learning (2019))
No summary available.
59.Spice: A 40-year old open-source success story (2011)(Spice: A 40-year old open-source success story (2011))
No summary available.
60.MIT grad, junior dev layoffs – watching my daughter lose faith in merit(MIT grad, junior dev layoffs – watching my daughter lose faith in merit)
The author's daughter followed a successful path, attending MIT, excelling in programming competitions, and securing strong internships. However, after being hired as a junior developer and then laid off in February, her confidence has significantly declined. She feels isolated and struggles with rejection, believing that her hard work no longer matters. The family is not celebrating Christmas, reflecting their emotional struggle. The author feels helpless and questions whether the job market is particularly tough for entry-level positions and how to help their daughter recover emotionally from this setback. They seek honest advice from the community.
61.Coding Intelligence Asymptotics(Coding Intelligence Asymptotics)
Summary of Coding Intelligence Asymptotics (December 18, 2025)
This text explores the future of software development when coding can be fully automated. Traditionally, software development relies on human intelligence and time. The idea here is to envision a scenario where humans no longer code, allowing for unlimited software development intelligence.
Key points include:
-
Codebase Expansion: As automation increases, the size of codebases will grow significantly. The time to find and fix bugs will decrease as automated systems can quickly rule out large sections of code.
-
Tool Development: Currently, developers choose tools based on their existing skills. However, with infinite developer time, it will become more feasible to adopt new tools and even create entirely new ones that are optimized for specific tasks.
-
Complex Specifications: Automated systems will be able to handle much more complex specifications for software, driven by advanced optimization processes. However, it’s crucial for humans to ensure these specifications align with their intentions, addressing the "alignment problem."
-
Higher Guarantees: With automation, we can demand higher standards for code, such as no dependencies and formal proofs of correctness. This level of assurance is beyond what human teams can typically achieve.
-
Future Readiness: While some concepts discussed may not be immediately practical, they are anticipated to become relevant soon, especially for early adopters of advanced coding technologies.
Overall, the text suggests that the future of software development will be shaped by automation, leading to larger, more complex, and more reliable codebases, while also highlighting the need for careful oversight.
62.Salmon Recipe(Salmon Recipe)
The text describes a C program that appears to print the squares of integers from 1 to 10 but actually outputs a grilled salmon recipe. This code, written by Adrian Cable, won a prize in the International Obfuscated C Code Contest (IOCCC). The author initially found the code confusing because it uses obfuscation techniques, making it hard to see its true purpose.
Key points include:
-
Obfuscated Code: The program uses complex macros and encoding to hide its true output, which is a recipe rather than the expected mathematical results.
-
Understanding the Code: The author explores the code step by step, focusing on elements like binary and hexadecimal representation, C macros, and pointers. They used tools like
cat -vto reveal hidden characters in the source code. -
Decoding Process: The recipe text is encoded in UTF32, with the program using only the last 8 bits of each character for output. The author learns how to decode the string and understands that hidden characters represent the recipe.
-
Logic Behind Output: The program's structure leads to the recipe being displayed only once, followed by the failure to print the squares of integers due to the way the loops are nested.
-
Learning Experience: The author emphasizes the importance of understanding encoding and obfuscation in programming, highlighting that even experienced programmers can struggle with such techniques.
In conclusion, the text illustrates a journey of decoding a cleverly obfuscated C program, transforming a simple appearance into a complex understanding of programming concepts and techniques.
63.Games’ affordance of childlike wonder and reduced burnout risk in young adults(Games’ affordance of childlike wonder and reduced burnout risk in young adults)
This study explores how popular video games like Super Mario Bros. and Yoshi can positively impact young adults by fostering a sense of childlike wonder, enhancing happiness, and reducing burnout risk. The research involved interviews with 41 university students and a survey of 336 players.
Key findings include:
- Players felt that these games help them experience joy and wonder, which in turn increases their overall happiness.
- Greater happiness is linked to a lower risk of burnout.
- The study found that the feeling of childlike wonder significantly boosts happiness, which then plays a crucial role in decreasing burnout risk.
The research highlights the potential of video games as tools for improving mental well-being, suggesting that well-designed games can provide a supportive environment for young adults facing high levels of stress. This study contributes to the understanding of how gaming can be integrated into mental health strategies for young people, offering valuable insights for game developers, educators, and health professionals.
64.A local-first, reversible PII scrubber for AI workflows(A local-first, reversible PII scrubber for AI workflows)
The author is a maintainer of Bridge Anonymization, a tool designed to help clients protect sensitive user information during translation. Existing solutions were inadequate because they either sent personal information to third-party services or degraded translation quality when redacting personal identifiable information (PII).
To address this, they created a local solution for Node.js/Bun that allows reversible anonymization. Key features include:
-
Unique Tagging: PII is tagged with XML-like identifiers to maintain compatibility with translation tools, and a local map stores these identifiers securely.
-
Detection Engine: A combination of strict regular expressions and a lightweight machine learning model detects structured and soft PII, ensuring accurate identification without heavy processing.
-
Data Preservation: A system is in place to manage potential errors in tag formatting during translation, ensuring the original data can be restored.
-
Contextual Information: They are developing "Semantic Masking" to add context to the PII tags, helping preserve information like gender during translation.
The author invites feedback on other methods for maintaining context in privacy-focused natural language processing (NLP) systems and notes that the code is available under the MIT license.
65.GraphicsMagick Image Processing System(GraphicsMagick Image Processing System)
GraphicsMagick Image Processing System Summary
- Latest Version: The current release is 1.3.46, released on October 29, 2025.
- What is GraphicsMagick?: It is a powerful image processing tool that can read, write, and manipulate images in over 92 formats, such as JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and more.
- Performance: GraphicsMagick uses multi-threading to enhance speed and efficiency, making it faster and less resource-intensive than similar software like ImageMagick.
- Compatibility: It works on various operating systems, including Windows (8 and later), MacOS, and Unix-like systems, and can handle very large images (gigapixel size).
- Functionality: Users can resize, rotate, and apply effects to images, as well as create dynamic images for web applications. It also offers command-line access and programming interfaces for several languages.
- Development: GraphicsMagick was forked from ImageMagick in 2002 and has since developed independently, focusing on efficiency and stability. It maintains a clean codebase with minimal defects.
- Licensing: It is open-source and free to use, distributed under the MIT License, which is compatible with other licenses.
- Examples of Use: Converting image formats, creating GIFs, adding effects, and comparing images are just a few capabilities of GraphicsMagick.
For more information or downloads, visit the official GraphicsMagick website.
66.Permission Systems for Enterprise That Scale(Permission Systems for Enterprise That Scale)
No summary available.
67.Open source USB to GPIB converter (for Test and Measurement instruments)(Open source USB to GPIB converter (for Test and Measurement instruments))
Summary of the UsbGpib Project Updates
Latest Updates:
- New firmware version V2.2 was released on November 30, 2025.
- A user manual for UsbGPIB V2 was added on November 23, 2025.
- Progress is ongoing for the upcoming V3 version, with prototypes ordered.
V3 Development Highlights:
- Hardware and mechanics have been optimized for stability and compliance.
- Power over Ethernet (POE) is fully functional.
- A new USB stack has been developed for better performance.
- Prototypes are expected by the end of January.
Buy or Build Options:
- Ready-to-use GPIB-USB converters are available for purchase, eliminating the need for DIY assembly.
- The project remains open-source, allowing users to build their own devices if preferred.
UsbGpib Features:
- It's a versatile, cost-effective USB to GPIB converter designed to support various test equipment.
- The device is compact, easy to use, and compatible with standard software like NI VISA and Labview.
- It supports firmware upgrades and additional features like serial polling.
Technical Details:
- The project uses easily sourced components and includes design files for DIY assembly.
- It provides a simple way to connect and control GPIB devices through USB.
User Support:
- The project has been stable and successfully tested across multiple operating systems.
- Users can report issues or seek support via email.
Project Aims:
- To create a reliable, compact, and affordable GPIB adapter that meets various user needs while ensuring compatibility with existing software tools.
For more details and to support the project, visit the UsbGpib GitHub page.
68.Inside CECOT – 60 Minutes [video](Inside CECOT – 60 Minutes [video])
The article discusses a segment from the TV show "60 Minutes" that features an inside look at a prison in El Salvador. It highlights the conditions and experiences within the facility, shedding light on the country's approach to crime and punishment. The report emphasizes the challenges faced by the prison system and the impact on inmates. Overall, it provides a critical view of the situation in El Salvador's prisons.
69.The e-scooter isn't new – London was zooming around on Autopeds a century ago(The e-scooter isn't new – London was zooming around on Autopeds a century ago)
I'm unable to access external links, but if you provide me with the text you'd like summarized, I'd be happy to help!
70.AMD entered the CPU market with reverse-engineered Intel 8080 clone 50 years ago(AMD entered the CPU market with reverse-engineered Intel 8080 clone 50 years ago)
No summary available.
71.Volvo Centum is Dalton Maag's new typeface for Volvo(Volvo Centum is Dalton Maag's new typeface for Volvo)
No summary available.
72.Redis vs. BoltCache(Redis vs. BoltCache)
BoltCache Overview
BoltCache is a high-performance, in-memory caching system compatible with Redis, built in Go. It offers improved speed and a RESTful API, making it suitable for modern applications and microservices.
Key Features:
- High Performance: 30-50% faster than Redis.
- RESTful API: Supports HTTP/JSON and TCP protocols.
- Pub/Sub Messaging: Real-time messaging with WebSocket support.
- TTL Support: Automatic expiration of keys.
- Thread-Safe: Allows concurrent operations without locks.
- Persistence: Saves data in JSON format with backup options.
- Clustering: Supports master-slave replication for high availability.
- Complex Data Types: Handles strings, lists, sets, and hashes.
- Lua Scripting: Run custom scripts for advanced operations.
- Security: Token-based authentication and rate limiting.
- Monitoring: Built-in metrics and health checks.
- Configuration: Managed through YAML files.
Getting Started:
- Prerequisites: Go 1.21+ and Git.
- Installation Steps:
- Clone the repository.
- Install dependencies with
go mod download. - Generate the default configuration and start the server.
Basic Operations:
- Health Check:
curl http://localhost:8090/ping - Set Value:
PUT /cache/{key} - Get Value:
GET /cache/{key} - Pub/Sub: Use
POST /publish/{channel}to publish messages.
Security Features:
- Supports token-based authentication via headers or query parameters.
- Rate limiting to control request frequency.
Performance Insights:
- BoltCache outperforms Redis in operations per second and uses less memory.
Deployment Options:
- Can be deployed using Docker, Docker Compose, or Kubernetes.
Contributing and Support:
- Contributions are welcome via GitHub.
- For issues, reach out through GitHub Issues or contact via email.
This summary highlights the core aspects of BoltCache, making it easier to understand its capabilities and how to get started.
73.Scaling Go Testing with Contract and Scenario Mocks(Scaling Go Testing with Contract and Scenario Mocks)
The article discusses effective testing strategies for complex applications, especially in Go programming. Here are the key points:
-
Mocking vs. Integration Testing: There is a debate about using mocks in testing. Some view mocks negatively, suggesting they can lead to unreliable tests (mock drift). However, the author argues that mocks are essential for managing complex systems without dedicated QA.
-
The Tactical Pair Strategy: The author introduces a strategy combining Contract Tests and Scenario Mocks:
- Contract Tests ensure that code interacts correctly with real databases and APIs. They verify that the system's structure matches expected behavior.
- Scenario Mocks allow testing of specific logic and error handling scenarios that are difficult to reproduce in real environments.
-
Designing for Testability: Good design practices, such as using interfaces instead of concrete implementations, enhance testability. This separation allows easier mocking and better management of dependencies.
-
End-to-End Tests: While Contract Tests are valuable, they do not replace End-to-End (E2E) tests. E2E tests validate that the entire system operates correctly in real-world conditions.
-
Practical Tools: The article mentions useful Go packages for testing, such as:
testify/mockfor creating mocks and assertions.httpmockfor intercepting HTTP requests and simulating API responses.go-sqlmockfor occasional use with SQL logic.
In summary, combining Contract Tests with Scenario Mocks improves testing reliability and coverage, enabling developers to manage complex applications effectively.
74.What makes you senior(What makes you senior)
Summary: What Makes a Senior Engineer?
Senior engineers are often defined by skills like architecture, communication, and leadership. However, the most important skill that sets senior engineers apart is their ability to reduce ambiguity.
While mid-level engineers excel at tackling clear problems, they struggle when faced with vague issues like improving performance or addressing user complaints. Senior engineers thrive in these situations because they:
- Ask insightful questions.
- Distinguish critical information from irrelevant details.
- Prioritize tasks effectively.
This skill helps them clarify complex problems, ultimately making projects run smoothly with fewer surprises. Unfortunately, many companies focus on technical skills and years of experience in hiring, overlooking the ability to manage ambiguity.
To assess if you're operating at a senior level, consider how you handle unclear tasks. Do you wait for clarification, jump into coding, or take the time to clarify the problem before proceeding? If you do the latter, you're likely already at a senior level. If not, you can improve this skill through practice by tackling ambiguous tasks.
75.Toad is a unified experience for AI in the terminal(Toad is a unified experience for AI in the terminal)
Toad is a terminal application designed to enhance the experience of using AI tools. Created by Will McGugan, Toad combines multiple AI interfaces like OpenHands and Claude Code into one user-friendly terminal environment, utilizing the ACP protocol.
Key features of Toad include:
- A user interface that feels more like a graphical environment, making coding easier and more intuitive.
- Enhanced file integration and a fast fuzzy search that respects .gitignore files.
- A prompt editor that supports keyboard and mouse navigation, allowing for easy text editing and Markdown highlighting.
- The ability to run interactive shell commands with full color and mouse support, unlike many other terminal tools.
- Tab completion for commands, making it quicker to input commands.
- Integration of concepts from Jupyter notebooks, allowing users to navigate and interact with previous commands easily.
Toad is in active development, with plans for additional features in the future. Users can install Toad now and explore its capabilities further on the project's website. Will McGugan hopes to make Toad his full-time project after a break in 2026.
76.WebPtoPNG – I built a WebP to PNG tool, everything runs in the browser(WebPtoPNG – I built a WebP to PNG tool, everything runs in the browser)
WebPtoPNG is a tool I created because I was annoyed with converters that limit uploads or use phone data. It works directly in your browser and doesn't require any sign-up.
77.Fabrication Techniques Using Myco-Materials(Fabrication Techniques Using Myco-Materials)
No summary available.
78.Litex: Formal math for everyone – set theory examples with Lean comparison(Litex: Formal math for everyone – set theory examples with Lean comparison)
The document compares two formal languages used for mathematics: Litex and Lean. Here are the key points:
-
Purpose: Litex aims to make formal mathematics more accessible, especially for those without a strong mathematical background, like AI researchers or physicists. It uses set theory as its foundation, while Lean is based on type theory.
-
Key Differences:
- Type System: Lean requires every object to have one specific type, while Litex allows objects to belong to multiple sets, reflecting more common mathematical thinking.
- Proof Method: In Lean, users must name and reference facts explicitly, while Litex automatically finds and verifies related facts, making the process simpler and more intuitive.
- Built-in Features: Litex has built-in set-theoretic rules and syntax, making it easier to work with compared to Lean, which requires extensive knowledge of various tools and packages.
-
Examples: The document provides several examples demonstrating how Litex simplifies common mathematical tasks (like proving set membership or properties) compared to Lean, which requires more elaborate setups and steps.
-
Current Status: Litex is still considered a learning tool, not yet ready for professional use. The document invites experts to provide feedback and encourages discussions on the Litex platform.
In summary, Litex is designed to be more user-friendly and intuitive for learners, while Lean offers a more rigorous, expert-focused approach.
79.Unifi Travel Router(Unifi Travel Router)
No summary available.
80.Proving Bounds for the Randomized MaxCut Approximation Algorithm in Lean4(Proving Bounds for the Randomized MaxCut Approximation Algorithm in Lean4)
No summary available.
81.Help My c64 caught on fire(Help My c64 caught on fire)
No summary available.
82.The IPv4 address swamp: The new normal(The IPv4 address swamp: The new normal)
No summary available.
83.We replaced H.264 streaming with JPEG screenshots (and it worked better)(We replaced H.264 streaming with JPEG screenshots (and it worked better))
No summary available.
84.AI Withholds Life-or-Death Information Unless You Know the Magic Words(AI Withholds Life-or-Death Information Unless You Know the Magic Words)
No summary available.
85.Could lockfiles just be SBOMs?(Could lockfiles just be SBOMs?)
Lockfiles used by various package managers (like npm, Bundler, and Cargo) serve a similar purpose to Software Bills of Materials (SBOMs) by recording which packages are installed, their versions, checksums, and sources. However, they use different formats. Standardized formats like CycloneDX and SPDX are being pushed in the security field for describing software components.
Lockfiles can be thought of as SBOMs since they contain key information like package identity, integrity checks, dependencies, and metadata. Still, there are gaps when comparing lockfiles to CycloneDX, especially regarding how they handle development versus production packages, platform-specific packages, and the distinction between direct and transitive dependencies.
If package managers adopted a standard lockfile format like CycloneDX, it could eliminate the need for conversion tools, improve cross-ecosystem compatibility, and provide first-class SBOMs. However, there are challenges, such as loss of human readability, increased complexity in managing diffs, and the need for migration.
Many package managers already generate SBOMs, and there's potential for gradual adoption of CycloneDX as a lockfile format. This would involve standardizing how package managers use properties and allowing projects to choose whether to adopt the new format.
Overall, recognizing that lockfiles are crucial software supply chain artifacts is essential. They should be treated with the same level of importance as SBOMs to ensure integrity and security across software components.
86.I rebuilt FlashAttention in Triton to understand the performance archaeology(I rebuilt FlashAttention in Triton to understand the performance archaeology)
Summary of "Reimplementing FlashAttention for performance and giggles"
The text discusses the reimplementation of the Flash Attention algorithm, a key optimization for deep learning models, particularly in transformer architectures. The author aims to understand and improve the performance of Flash Attention by following a structured approach that involves profiling and iterating on different versions of the algorithm.
Key Points:
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Introduction to Flash Attention: The author highlights the significance of Flash Attention in deep learning since its introduction in 2022, noting that it has undergone several versions to enhance performance.
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Performance Bottlenecks: The original implementation of attention mechanisms in transformers can be inefficient due to high memory usage (quadratic complexity) and slow memory access, which can hinder performance.
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Optimization Goals: The goal is to implement the first version of Flash Attention in Triton, a programming language designed for GPU programming, and to identify bottlenecks through profiling. This will help understand why later versions of the algorithm were developed.
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Use of Triton: Triton allows for easier GPU kernel programming compared to CUDA by abstracting thread management, which can lead to better performance without getting into complex code.
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Hardware Setup: The implementation is performed on a personal machine with specific hardware specifications, including an NVIDIA RTX 2070 GPU.
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Profiling Tools: The author employs various profiling tools to analyze performance, including basic checks with PyTorch’s profiler and more detailed insights with NVIDIA’s Nsight systems.
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Algorithmic Insights: The core idea of Flash Attention is to compute the output directly from the input tensors without creating large intermediate tensors, thus reducing memory usage and improving performance.
Overall, the text serves as a guide to understanding and optimizing Flash Attention through practical implementation and profiling, with an emphasis on learning from each iteration.
87.How GNU Guile is 10x better (2021)(How GNU Guile is 10x better (2021))
Summary: 10 Ways GNU Guile is Superior
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Powerful Core: Guile has a strong core that supports advanced programming concepts like fibers, allowing clean and efficient code.
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Runtime Introspection: You can modify running code easily, which is more flexible than in languages like C or Java.
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S-expressions: Guile uses a consistent format for code and data, making it easier to manipulate and extend.
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C Interfacing: Guile allows for easy integration with C, sometimes making it easier to write C programs than using C itself.
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Fibers: Lightweight threads provide efficient concurrency without changing the core of the language.
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Embedded Scripting: Guile supports creating embedded domain-specific languages, enhancing usability for specific tasks.
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Hackability: Guile’s structure encourages modifications and extensions, making it enjoyable to work with.
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Complete Documentation: Guile includes a comprehensive manual that is accessible without needing internet access.
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Prototyping: It facilitates rapid prototyping and creative experimentation, with good performance that allows for real-world deployment.
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Fun to Use: Many users find programming in Guile enjoyable, fostering a positive development experience.
Additional advantages noted by users include named lets, functional data structures, and tools for easy web integration.
88.Flock Exposed Its AI-Powered Cameras to the Internet. We Tracked Ourselves(Flock Exposed Its AI-Powered Cameras to the Internet. We Tracked Ourselves)
The text refers to a link that leads to an archived webpage and a YouTube video titled "This Flock Camera Leak is like Netflix For Stalkers." The focus seems to be on the Flock camera system, which has raised concerns about privacy and surveillance, suggesting that it enables extensive tracking similar to how Netflix provides personalized content. The overall theme highlights issues around privacy and the implications of such technology.
89.Python Applied Mathematics Labs(Python Applied Mathematics Labs)
Summary of ACME Labs Introduction
ACME Labs provides practical labs to accompany the Foundations of Applied Mathematics textbook series, helping students apply mathematical and computational concepts to real-world problems.
Key Learning Areas:
- You will learn to use Python libraries like NumPy and Matplotlib.
- Core skills include mathematical algorithms, coding best practices, and data visualization.
Real-World Applications: Labs will cover various topics, such as:
- Predicting tsunami times
- Optimizing meal plans
- Cleaning sound files
- Facial recognition and image compression
- Building text generators and recommendation systems
- Training machine learning models
Site Structure: The website features tools for reporting issues, downloading resources, and changing display modes. Labs are organized by textbook volumes, with sections for setup guidance, student resources, and optional labs.
Lab Format: Each lab includes learning objectives, theoretical background, practical exercises, and extra materials for deeper learning.
Personal Projects: Students can use labs as a foundation for personal projects, showcasing their skills and creativity, which can be beneficial for internships or job applications. Projects should be original and distinct from homework submissions.
For more details or if you're not an enrolled ACME student, check the Public Use page for access information.
90.Silicon Valley's tone-deaf take on the AI backlash will matter in 2026(Silicon Valley's tone-deaf take on the AI backlash will matter in 2026)
Summary of Eye on AI Edition
In this edition of Eye on AI, reporter Sharon Goldman discusses several key points about the current state and future of artificial intelligence (AI).
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AI Skepticism: There is growing frustration in Silicon Valley regarding public skepticism toward AI. Many in the tech industry believe that outsiders fail to recognize the rapid advancements in AI technology, viewing it instead as a stagnant or harmful force.
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Public Concerns: While AI developers are excited about the potential of AI, many users express anxiety about its implications for jobs, costs, and societal impact. These concerns may overshadow the benefits of AI for everyday people.
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Need for Better Communication: Experts argue that Silicon Valley must better communicate the benefits of AI to the public to gain their trust and support. People are more concerned about their immediate issues, like housing and healthcare, than about technological competition.
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Instacart's Pricing Tests: Instacart has halted its AI-driven pricing tests after consumer groups raised concerns about price inconsistencies, which could cost shoppers significantly more.
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Future of Life with AI: An interactive piece from the Guardian explores how AI might transform daily life by 2035, including advancements in healthcare and potential job changes, while raising questions about fairness and transparency.
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AI and Science: A new study suggests that current AI models can mimic scientific writing but lack true scientific reasoning and discovery capabilities.
Overall, the conversation around AI is complex, with excitement from developers and skepticism from the public. There is a clear need for better dialogue to bridge this gap as AI continues to evolve.
The edition also highlights upcoming AI events and predictions for the future, emphasizing the ongoing changes in the AI landscape.
91.Fixing HN comments with breadth-first navigation(Fixing HN comments with breadth-first navigation)
No summary available.
92.CineCLI – Browse and torrent movies directly from your terminal(CineCLI – Browse and torrent movies directly from your terminal)
The text introduces CineCLI, a terminal application for browsing movies and managing torrents. Key features include:
- Movie search from the terminal
- Detailed movie information (ratings, runtime, genres)
- Two usage modes: interactive and non-interactive
- Ability to handle magnet links with your default torrent client
- Support for Linux, macOS, and Windows
- No ads or tracking
You can find it on GitHub and PyPI. The creator is seeking feedback from users familiar with terminals and Python.
93.Nabokov's guide to foreigners learning Russian(Nabokov's guide to foreigners learning Russian)
I'm sorry, but I can't access external links. However, if you provide the text you want summarized, I can help with that!
94.Rack makes Pion SCTP 71% faster with 27% less latency(Rack makes Pion SCTP 71% faster with 27% less latency)
Summary of SCTP and Its Applications
SCTP (Stream Control Transmission Protocol) is a communication protocol that ensures reliable data transfer between computers. It can send messages in the correct order or out of order, supports multiple applications on a single connection, and provides automatic failover if a primary connection fails.
Key Uses of SCTP:
- Data Transmission: SCTP allows users to send text messages and larger files, like images and videos, without delays, even when multiple transfers occur simultaneously.
- Real-time Communication: It enables quick responses for applications like remote surgery and real-time navigation, where low latency is crucial.
- Online Gaming: SCTP is beneficial for multiplayer games where every moment counts.
- WebRTC: SCTP is utilized in WebRTC for reliable and secure data transfer, supporting features like video calls and file sharing.
Loss Recovery Strategies in SCTP: SCTP has two main methods for recovering lost data:
- Fast Retransmission: If a data chunk is missing, the receiver informs the sender, which will resend the missing chunk after three reports of loss.
- Timer-based Retransmission: If the sender doesn't receive acknowledgment within a specific time, it will resend the unacknowledged data.
RACK Implementation: A new algorithm called RACK (RACK-TLP) improves loss detection and recovery in SCTP. It:
- Tracks network conditions to identify lost packets more efficiently.
- Uses Tail Loss Probing (TLP) to quickly check if the receiver got the last packet, avoiding unnecessary retransmissions.
Performance Improvements with RACK: Tests show that RACK can significantly increase throughput and reduce CPU usage, leading to faster data transfer without additional resource costs. For example, it improved goodput by 34.9% while using 21% less CPU time.
Future Developments: Researchers are continually refining SCTP and RACK, aiming for even better performance and reliability based on real-world data.
Overall, SCTP is a versatile protocol suited for various applications, ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission across different environments.
95.Donald E. Knuth and Peter van Emde Boas on priority deques (1977) [pdf](Donald E. Knuth and Peter van Emde Boas on priority deques (1977) [pdf])
In the spring of 1977, Donald E. Knuth sent a letter to Peter van Emde Boas, sharing his classroom notes on priority deques, which addressed a problem related to their excessive space usage. This correspondence was in response to a report from the University of Amsterdam that presented a solution to this issue. Knuth's note is significant because it includes a famous quote about program correctness and is the first to describe priority deques using a top-down recursive method, which is now widely used. The recursive approach was not initially explored due to concerns about certain machine instructions. The letters exchanged between Knuth and van Emde Boas discuss these topics. The document is being made available online for broader access.
96.Turn raw HTML into production-ready images for free(Turn raw HTML into production-ready images for free)
Summary of html2png Service:
html2png is a free API that converts HTML into high-quality PNG images without needing any sign-up or server setup. Key features include:
- Easy Image Generation: Simply send a raw HTML string via an HTTP POST request to generate an image.
- Multiple Formats: Supports PNG, JPEG, WebP, and PDF outputs.
- Dynamic Content: Can create unique images for social media by using variables in HTML templates.
- High Resolution: Allows for Retina image generation with adjustable scaling.
- Transparent Backgrounds: Can generate images with transparent backgrounds for icons and logos.
- Compatibility: Works well with AI tools like Claude and GPT-5, and supports modern CSS, including Tailwind and Google Fonts.
- Automated Screenshots: Suitable for generating website thumbnails quickly.
- Rate Limits: Free usage is capped at 50 requests per hour per IP address.
- Performance: Utilizes Cloudflare's global network for fast image rendering.
For further details, users can refer to the API documentation or contact support.
97.Microsoft Agent Viewer(Microsoft Agent Viewer)
The author missed Clippy and Bonzi Buddy, so they spent a few days recreating Microsoft's old agent format called ACS. They also developed a small viewer using WebAssembly and TypeScript. You can find the code on GitHub at the provided link.
98.The 9th Circuit Upholds Professor's Right to Mock 'Land Acknowledgments'(The 9th Circuit Upholds Professor's Right to Mock 'Land Acknowledgments')
The 9th Circuit Court upheld the First Amendment rights of Stuart Reges, a University of Washington professor, who was investigated for mocking "land acknowledgments" in his syllabus. The court ruled that the university administrators violated his rights by punishing him for his speech, which is protected under the Constitution.
Reges, who has taught at the university since 2004, criticized the official land acknowledgment statement and included a parody in his syllabus. This led to an internal investigation and threats of disciplinary action from the university, which claimed his comments disrupted the learning environment for Native American students.
The court emphasized that disagreement and debate are important in higher education and that discomfort from students does not justify punishing a professor for their views. The ruling was seen as a victory for academic freedom, stating that universities should not force faculty to align with specific political viewpoints.
Ultimately, the court found that the alleged disruptions were mainly due to students' discomfort with Reges' opinions, which do not warrant restrictions on his academic speech. The ruling reinforces the idea that exposure to differing views is an essential part of education.
99.Researchers achieved 1,270 Wh/L in an anode-free lithium metal battery(Researchers achieved 1,270 Wh/L in an anode-free lithium metal battery)
Please provide the text you would like me to summarize, and I will help you with that!
100.How did DOGE disrupt so much while saving so little?(How did DOGE disrupt so much while saving so little?)
No summary available.