This image showcases a combined view of the Perseus galaxy cluster, revealing its complex structure through different wavelengths of light. Data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory (showing hot gas in blue) is overlaid with infrared data from the James Webb Space Telescope (showing galaxies and stars in red, green, and blue) and optical data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (showing galaxies in yellow). This multi-wavelength perspective highlights the interplay between supermassive black holes, hot gas, and star formation within the galaxy cluster, one of the most massive known structures in the Universe.
A developer created "xPong," a project that uses AI to provide real-time commentary for Pong games. The system analyzes the game state, including paddle positions, ball trajectory, and score, to generate dynamic and contextually relevant commentary. It employs a combination of rule-based logic and a large language model to produce varied and engaging descriptions of the ongoing action, aiming for a natural, human-like commentary experience. The project is open-source and available on GitHub.
HN users generally expressed amusement and interest in the AI-generated Pong commentary. Several praised the creator's ingenuity and the entertaining nature of the project, finding the sometimes nonsensical yet enthusiastic commentary humorous. Some questioned the technical implementation, specifically how the AI determines what constitutes exciting gameplay and how it generates the commentary itself. A few commenters suggested potential improvements, such as adding more variety to the commentary and making the AI react to specific game events more accurately. Others expressed a desire to see the system applied to other, more complex games. The overall sentiment was positive, with many finding the project a fun and creative application of AI.
Researchers have discovered that the teeth of the limpet, a small sea snail, are the strongest known biological material, surpassing even spider silk. These teeth contain a hard mineral called goethite arranged in tightly packed nanofibers, giving them exceptional tensile strength. This structure allows the limpet to scrape algae off rocks in harsh wave-battered environments. The discovery could inspire the development of stronger, more durable materials for engineering applications, like cars, boats, and aircraft.
HN commenters discuss the misleading nature of the title. Several point out that "strongest material" is meaningless without specifying the type of strength being measured (tensile, compressive, shear, etc.). They argue that the limpet teeth excel in tensile strength due to their small size and specific structure, but this doesn't translate to overall strength or usefulness in the same way as Kevlar or titanium. Some discuss the challenges of scaling up the material's properties for practical applications, while others highlight the importance of considering other factors like toughness and density when comparing materials. A few commenters also express skepticism about the actual measurements and the media's tendency to oversimplify scientific findings.
The blog post details the implementation of a real-time vectorscope on an RK3588 SoC for video processing. The author leverages the hardware capabilities of the RK3588's GPU to efficiently process video frames, convert them from YUV to RGB color space, and then plot the resulting color information on a vectorscope display. This allows for visualization of the color distribution within a video signal, aiding in tasks like color correction and ensuring broadcast compliance. The implementation utilizes OpenGL ES and involves custom shaders for color conversion and drawing the vectorscope visualization. The post highlights the performance benefits of using the GPU and provides snippets of the shader code used in the project.
The Hacker News comments discuss the practicality and efficiency of the author's approach to implementing a vectorscope on an RK3588 SoC. Some users question the choice of using NEON intrinsics for SIMD processing, suggesting that higher-level libraries or compiler auto-vectorization might offer better performance and easier maintenance. Others praise the author's deep dive into hardware specifics and optimization, viewing it as a valuable learning resource. A recurring theme is the trade-off between performance gains from low-level optimization and the added complexity and potential for errors. There's also interest in whether the implemented vectorscope accurately reflects broadcast standards and the potential applications for real-time video analysis.
MIT researchers have developed an ultrathin, flexible "electronic skin" that can detect infrared light, potentially paving the way for lightweight and inexpensive night-vision eyewear. This innovation uses colloidal quantum dots, tiny semiconductor crystals, as the light-sensing material, layered onto a flexible substrate. By converting infrared light into an electrical signal that can then be amplified and displayed on a screen, the technology eliminates the need for bulky and expensive cooling systems currently required in conventional night-vision devices. This approach promises a more accessible and wearable form of night vision.
Hacker News users discussed the potential impact and limitations of the electronic skin night vision technology. Several commenters expressed skepticism about the claimed low-light performance, questioning whether the 0.3 millilux sensitivity is truly comparable to existing night vision goggles, which typically operate in even lower light levels. Some pointed out the importance of considering power consumption and battery life for practical use in glasses, while others wondered about the resolution and field of view achievable with this technology. The possibility of using this technology for thermal imaging was also raised. There was general excitement about the potential for lightweight and less bulky night vision, but also a pragmatic recognition that further development is needed.
The essay "Ghosts and Dolls" explores the uncanny nature of dolls, positioning them as liminal objects occupying a space between life and death, animation and inanimacy. Their resemblance to humans, yet inherent stillness, evokes an unsettling feeling, often linked to folklore and spiritual beliefs about trapped souls or conduits to the supernatural. The author connects this eeriness to the concept of "the double," a psychological phenomenon where a copy or representation triggers existential anxieties about identity and mortality. Dolls, therefore, become potent symbols of this unease, acting as mirrors reflecting our own fears of death and decay. This is further exemplified through their use in various cultural practices, from children's play mimicking life cycles to mourning rituals and magical traditions.
Hacker News users discussing "Ghosts and Dolls" largely focused on the plausibility of the phenomena described. Some commenters expressed skepticism, suggesting the experiences were due to suggestibility, confirmation bias, and the human tendency to find patterns. Others shared personal anecdotes or cited research seemingly supporting the existence of paranormal activity. A few users pointed out the cultural significance of dolls and how that ties into the uncanny valley effect, contributing to the feeling of unease they evoke. The discussion touched upon the role of imagination and storytelling, with some arguing that the value of such narratives lies not in their veracity, but in their exploration of human psychology and cultural anxieties. A compelling comment thread developed around the idea that these experiences, regardless of their origin, offer insight into the human need to create meaning and find explanations for the unknown.
The blog post explores the relative speeds of Vision Transformers (ViTs) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), finding that while ViTs theoretically have lower computational complexity, they are often slower in practice. This discrepancy arises from optimized CNN implementations benefiting from decades of research and hardware acceleration. Specifically, highly optimized convolution operations, efficient memory access patterns, and specialized hardware like GPUs favor CNNs. While ViTs can be faster for very high-resolution images where their quadratic complexity is less impactful, they generally lag behind CNNs at common image sizes. The author concludes that focused optimization efforts are needed for ViTs to realize their theoretical speed advantages.
The Hacker News comments discuss the surprising finding in the linked article that Vision Transformers (ViTs) can be faster than Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) under certain hardware and implementation conditions. Several commenters point out the importance of efficient implementations and hardware acceleration for ViTs, with some arguing that the article's conclusions might not hold true with further optimization of CNN implementations. Others highlight the article's focus on inference speed, noting that training speed is also a crucial factor. The discussion also touches on the complexities of performance benchmarking, with different hardware and software stacks yielding potentially different results, and the limitations of focusing solely on FLOPs as a measure of efficiency. Some users express skepticism about the long-term viability of ViTs given their memory bandwidth requirements.
Inspired by the HD-2D art style of Octopath Traveler II, a developer created their own pixel art editor. The editor, written in TypeScript and using HTML Canvas, focuses on recreating the layered sprite effect seen in the game, allowing users to create images with multiple light sources and apply depth effects to individual pixels. The project is open-source and available on GitHub, and the developer welcomes feedback and contributions.
Several commenters on the Hacker News post praise the pixel art editor's clean UI and intuitive design. Some express interest in the underlying technology and ask about the framework used (Godot 4). Others discuss the challenges of pixel art, particularly around achieving a consistent style and the benefits of using dedicated tools. A few commenters share their own experiences with pixel art and recommend other software or resources. The developer actively engages with commenters, answering questions about the editor's features, planned improvements (including animation support), and the inspiration drawn from Octopath Traveler II's distinct HD-2D style. There's also a short thread discussing the merits of different dithering algorithms.
In 1961, experienced climber Bill Stampfl disappeared on Peru's Huascaran mountain. His body was never recovered, leaving his family without closure for decades. Sixty years later, climber Jim Sullivan, using information from Stampfl's son and satellite imagery, located potential remains high on the mountain. An expedition, partially funded by National Geographic, confirmed the discovery of climbing gear and human remains. DNA analysis positively identified the remains as Bill Stampfl, finally bringing his family closure and solving a decades-old mountaineering mystery.
HN commenters discuss the poignant story of Bill Stampfl's discovery and identification. Several express admiration for Stampfl's climbing skill and the incredible odds of his remains being found after so long. Some highlight the bittersweet nature of the discovery, offering condolences to the family while acknowledging the closure it provides. Others question the decision to climb such a dangerous mountain, with one commenter pointing out the inherent risks and suggesting it might be more prudent to choose less perilous peaks. The ethics of retrieving bodies from mountains are also briefly touched upon, raising questions about the environmental impact and the wishes of the deceased. A few users share personal anecdotes about lost loved ones, emphasizing the enduring pain of uncertainty and the importance of closure.
The blog post argues that fixed-tilt solar panels, especially on vertical surfaces like walls and windows, will become increasingly prevalent, even exceeding the adoption of traditional sun-tracking systems. This is because advancements in solar cell efficiency and falling panel prices are making energy generation viable even with suboptimal sunlight capture. Coupled with the aesthetic integration and reduced land use of building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs), these factors will drive adoption towards less complex, more pervasive solar installations that prioritize cost-effectiveness and visual appeal over maximizing solar tracking.
HN users largely agree with the premise that static solar panels are more efficient and economical than tracking systems. Several commenters point out that the added complexity and maintenance costs of trackers outweigh the marginal gain in energy production. The added energy cost of producing the trackers themselves is also mentioned. Some suggest that advancements in panel efficiency will further diminish the value proposition of trackers. A few dissenting voices question the author's assumptions about wind loads and suggest that the analysis might be biased, while others propose a more nuanced approach where only one axis of tracking is used, or tracking is limited to certain times of day. One commenter highlights the potential benefit of trackers in high-latitude locations, where the sun's angle varies significantly throughout the year.
Roons is a mechanical computer kit designed for educational purposes. It lets users build a functioning computer using physical levers, gears, and logic gates, providing a tangible, hands-on experience of how computation works at a fundamental level. The kit includes all necessary parts and instructions, allowing builders to create a simple, programmable machine capable of performing basic calculations and logic operations. The goal is to demystify computing by demonstrating the core principles of logic and automation through a physical, manipulable system.
HN users generally expressed enthusiasm for the Roons mechanical computer kit, praising its educational value and the satisfying tactile experience it offers. Several commenters drew comparisons to Turing Tumble, another mechanical computer kit, with some suggesting Roons offered more complexity and flexibility. A few users questioned the price point, wondering if it could be lowered to increase accessibility. The creator responded to several comments, clarifying details about the kit's functionality, design choices, and future plans, including potential expansions and curriculum development. There was also a discussion around the marketing and target audience, with suggestions for focusing on educational institutions and homeschooling families.
Redis creator Salvatore Sanfilippo (antirez) reversed the previous "Commons Clause" licensing for Redis modules, returning them to the open-source AGPL license. He acknowledged the community's negative reaction to the Commons Clause, recognizing its chilling effect on the ecosystem and its incompatibility with the open-source ethos. While some modules will remain proprietary under a commercial license offered by Redis Labs, the core Redis project and many popular modules are now fully open source again, fostering broader community involvement and collaboration.
HN commenters largely celebrated Redis's return to a BSD license after the source-available RSAL license was applied to some modules. Many expressed relief and saw the move as a correction of a previous misstep, strengthening the project's community and future. Some questioned the rationale behind the initial licensing change, speculating about pressure from Redis Labs. Others discussed the nuances of open-source licensing and the implications for businesses built on Redis. A few questioned the practical impact of the reversion, given that the core remained BSD-licensed throughout. Several users highlighted the positive impact of community feedback in influencing this decision.
This blog post delves deeper into the slow launch times of some Mac applications, particularly those built with Electron. It revisits and expands upon a previous investigation, pinpointing macOS's handling of code signatures as a significant bottleneck. Specifically, the codesign utility, used to verify the integrity of app binaries, appears to be inefficient when dealing with large numbers of embedded frameworks, a common characteristic of Electron apps. While the developer has reported this issue to Apple, the post offers potential workarounds, like restructuring apps to have fewer embedded frameworks or leveraging notarization. Ultimately, the author emphasizes the significant performance impact this issue can have and encourages other developers experiencing similar problems to report them to Apple.
The Hacker News comments discuss the linked article about slow Mac app launches, focusing on the impact of poorly optimized or excessive use of frameworks and plugins. Several commenters agree with the author's points, sharing their own experiences with sluggish applications and pointing fingers at Electron apps in particular. Some discuss the tradeoffs developers face between speed and cross-platform compatibility. The overhead of loading numerous dynamic libraries and frameworks is highlighted as a key culprit, with one commenter suggesting a tool to visualize the dependency tree could be beneficial. Others mention Apple's role in this issue, citing the increasing complexity of macOS and the lack of clear developer guidelines for optimization. A few comments dispute the article's claims, arguing that modern hardware should be capable of handling these loads and suggesting other potential bottlenecks like storage speed or network issues.
The phrase "vegetative electron microscopy," a nonsensical combination of botanical and microscopy terms, has been mysteriously appearing in a growing number of published scientific papers, particularly those originating from China. This likely stems from a mistranslation of the Chinese term for "scanning electron microscopy" (SEM). While some instances might be honest errors, the sheer volume and repetition across different papers suggest potential plagiarism or the use of paper mills, which produce and sell fabricated research. The presence of this gibberish phrase highlights concerns about the quality control and peer-review process in some scientific journals.
Hacker News users discussed the phenomenon of "vegetative electron microscopy" appearing in scientific papers, attributing it to machine-translated and plagiarized papers from China. Several commenters pointed out the likely correct term is "transmission electron microscopy" (TEM), and that "vegetative" likely comes from a mistranslation of the Chinese word for "transmission." Some noted the broader problem of low-quality, often nonsensical, research being published due to pressure on academics, particularly in China, to publish frequently. The discussion also touched upon the difficulty of detecting and filtering this type of content and the potential damage it causes to the scientific literature. A few users offered humorous takes, suggesting "vegetative" might refer to the state of the researchers conducting the microscopy.
Starting July 1, 2026 (delayed from July 1, 2023, and subsequently, July 1, 2024), all peer-reviewed publications stemming from research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) must be made freely available in PubMed Central (PMC) immediately upon publication, with no embargo period. This updated NIH Public Access Policy eliminates the previous 12-month allowance for publishers to keep articles behind paywalls. The policy aims to accelerate discovery and improve public health by ensuring broader and faster access to taxpayer-funded research results. Researchers are responsible for complying with this policy, including submitting their manuscripts to PMC.
Hacker News commenters largely applaud the NIH's move to eliminate the 12-month embargo for NIH-funded research. Several express hope that this will accelerate scientific progress and broaden access to vital information. Some raise concerns about the potential impact on smaller journals and the future of academic publishing, questioning whether alternative funding models will emerge. Others point out the limitations of the policy, noting that it doesn't address issues like the accessibility of supplemental materials or the paywalling of publicly funded research in other countries. A few commenters also discuss the role of preprints and the potential for increased plagiarism. Some skepticism is expressed about whether the policy will truly be enforced and lead to meaningful change.
The Atlantic article highlights a concerning trend in the job market: prime-age workers (25-54) are increasingly leaving the workforce, while older workers are staying longer and teenagers are entering at lower rates. This shrinking prime-age workforce, coupled with the rising number of retirees needing social support, poses a significant threat to economic growth and the stability of programs like Social Security and Medicare. The reasons for this trend are complex and include factors such as childcare costs, long COVID, declining real wages, and the opioid crisis. This exodus, even if temporary, could have lasting negative consequences for the economy.
HN commenters discuss the shrinking job market for young people, with some attributing it to automation and AI, while others point to declining birth rates leading to fewer entry-level positions. Several suggest the issue is cyclical, tied to economic downturns and an oversupply of graduates in certain fields. Some dispute the premise, arguing that opportunities exist but require more specialized skills or entrepreneurial spirit. The idea of "bullshit jobs" is also raised, suggesting that many entry-level roles offer little real value and are susceptible to cuts. Several commenters emphasize the importance of internships and networking for young job seekers, and some advocate for apprenticeships and vocational training as alternatives to traditional college degrees. A few highlight the growing gig economy and remote work options, while others lament the lack of job security and benefits in these fields.
Kraken's security team detected and thwarted an attempted infiltration by a suspected North Korean hacker posing as a security engineer. The individual, believed to be connected to the Lazarus Group, engaged in suspicious behavior, including using a Gmail address despite claiming to be based in China, submitting a portfolio with inconsistent details and low-quality code, and demonstrating a limited understanding of fundamental security concepts during the interview process. Kraken emphasizes their robust security measures and commitment to protecting user funds, highlighting this incident as an example of their vigilance against sophisticated threats.
Hacker News commenters largely questioned the certainty with which Kraken identified the applicant as a North Korean hacker, pointing out the limited evidence presented in the blog post. Several commenters suggested alternative explanations, such as the applicant using a VPN or being framed. The reliance on cryptocurrency transactions and blockchain analysis as primary evidence was also scrutinized, with some arguing it doesn't definitively link the individual to North Korea. Some questioned Kraken's motives for publishing the blog post, speculating about potential ulterior motives beyond simply sharing a security incident. Finally, a few commenters discussed the ethical implications of publicly accusing someone of being a North Korean hacker based on circumstantial evidence.
All rose colors, except yellow, originated from a single genetic mutation in a white rose ancestor. Scientists discovered this by sequencing the genomes of 34 rose species, revealing the evolutionary path of rose color. The ancient yellow rose developed its color independently, while white roses arose through a mutation that suppressed yellow pigment production. Subsequent mutations in this white rose lineage activated alternative pigment pathways, leading to the diverse reds, pinks, and other colors we see in roses today. This finding simplifies the complex rose family tree and provides valuable insights for future rose breeding.
Hacker News users discuss the genetic basis of rose color and the article's claim that all roses were once yellow. Several commenters point out that the article is misleading, as wild roses exhibit a variety of colors, including pink and white, not just yellow. They clarify that the yellow rose mentioned is likely Rosa foetida, which played a significant role in breeding modern roses, particularly contributing yellow hues. Some discuss the complexity of rose genetics and hybridization, questioning the oversimplification presented in the article. Others express interest in the history of rose breeding and the genetic mechanisms responsible for color variation. A few lament the loss of scent in modern roses, attributing it to selective breeding for color and other traits.
Vanguard CEO Tim Buckley's letter commemorates the company's 50th anniversary, emphasizing its enduring mission of serving investors' best interests. He highlights Vanguard's unique client-owned structure, which aligns its incentives with those of its investors, enabling the firm to prioritize long-term value creation over short-term profits. Buckley credits this structure, along with a commitment to low costs, broad diversification, and sound advice, for Vanguard's growth and success. He reaffirms Vanguard's dedication to its founding principles and expresses confidence in its ability to navigate future market challenges and continue empowering investors to achieve their financial goals.
HN commenters generally praise Vanguard's low-cost, long-term investment philosophy and its positive impact on the investing landscape. Several highlight the contrast with other firms focused on short-term gains and high fees. Some discuss Bogle's legacy and his foresight in recognizing the importance of low costs and indexing. A few commenters question Vanguard's current size and influence, wondering if it has become too large and whether its index funds distort market dynamics. Others discuss the limitations of indexing, particularly in sectors like emerging markets. Some skepticism is expressed about the practicality of Vanguard's model for active fund managers, with debate on whether they can genuinely prioritize investor interests above their own.
Hyperparam is an open-source toolkit designed for local, browser-based dataset exploration. It allows users to quickly load and analyze data without uploading it to a server, preserving privacy and enabling faster iteration. The project focuses on speed and simplicity, providing an intuitive interface for data profiling, visualization, and transformation tasks. Key features include efficient data sampling, interactive charts, and data manipulation using JavaScript expressions directly within the browser. Hyperparam aims to streamline the initial stages of data analysis, empowering users to gain insights and understand their data more effectively before moving on to more complex analysis pipelines.
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for Hyperparam, praising its user-friendly interface and the convenience of exploring datasets locally within the browser. Several commenters appreciated the tool's speed and simplicity, especially for tasks like quickly inspecting CSV files. Some users highlighted specific features they found valuable, such as the ability to handle large datasets and the option to generate Python code for data manipulation. A few commenters also offered constructive feedback, suggesting improvements like support for different data formats and integration with cloud storage. The discussion also touched upon the broader trend of browser-based data analysis tools and the potential benefits of this approach.
Onyx Boox, known for its e-ink Android tablets, has unveiled a new 25.3-inch color e-ink monitor, the Mira Pro, priced at $1,900. This monitor boasts a 3200 x 1800 resolution and utilizes Kaleido 3 color e-ink technology, offering a wider color gamut and faster refresh rates than previous generations. While still slower than traditional monitors, it targets users sensitive to eye strain and those who primarily work with text-based documents, code, or comics. The Mira Pro runs Android 11 and features several ports, including USB-C with DisplayPort support, allowing connection to various devices.
Hacker News users discussed the high price point of the Onyx Boox Mira Pro, with some expressing interest despite the cost due to its unique eye-friendly nature, particularly for coding and writing. Several commenters questioned the value proposition compared to larger, higher-resolution traditional monitors at a lower price. The slow refresh rate was also a major concern, limiting its use cases primarily to static content consumption and text-based work. Some users shared positive experiences with previous E Ink monitors, highlighting their benefits for focused work, while others suggested waiting for future iterations with improved color and refresh rates at a more accessible price. A few commenters also discussed potential niche applications like displaying dashboards or using it as a secondary monitor for specific tasks.
International Workers' Day, also known as May Day, is a celebration of laborers and the working classes that is promoted by the international labor movement and occurs every year on May 1st. It originated in the late 19th-century United States from the efforts of the labor movement to establish an eight-hour workday, a demand underscored by the Haymarket affair in Chicago. While the United States now celebrates Labor Day on a different date, May Day is recognized as a public holiday in many countries and continues to be a day of protests and demonstrations organized by labor unions, socialist, communist, and anarchist groups to advocate for workers' rights.
The Hacker News comments discuss various aspects of International Workers' Day/May Day. Several commenters explore the historical significance of the date, including its roots in the Haymarket affair and the fight for the eight-hour workday. Some contrast the American celebration of Labor Day in September with the international May Day, noting the different historical origins and current cultural significance. A few comments touch on the complicated relationship between labor movements, socialism/communism, and anarchism. Others mention the holiday's current status in different countries, highlighting varying degrees of celebration and political significance. A recurring theme is the disconnect between the original intent of the day—workers' rights—and its modern perception. Finally, some users share personal anecdotes related to May Day celebrations or labor activism.
Linkwarden is a free and open-source, self-hostable bookmarking application that utilizes AI for automatic tag generation and offers integrated webpage archiving. It allows users to save and organize their bookmarks, enhancing searchability and ensuring access even if the original link breaks. Linkwarden prioritizes privacy and control by enabling users to host their own data and integrates with existing services like Wallabag for archiving. It aims to be a robust and customizable alternative to commercial bookmarking solutions.
HN users generally expressed interest in Linkwarden, praising its feature set, particularly the self-hosting aspect and AI tagging. Several users compared it favorably to existing solutions like Pinboard, Shaarli, and Wallabag, while others suggested integrations with services like Readwise. Some voiced concerns about the complexity of setup for non-technical users and the potential performance implications of the AI tagging. There was also discussion about the database choice (Supabase), with some expressing preference for a simpler, more portable option like SQLite. A few users requested features like full-text search and hierarchical tagging. The developer actively engaged with the comments, addressing questions and acknowledging feedback.
May Day's origins lie in the late 19th-century labor movement's fight for an eight-hour workday. Specifically, it commemorates the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where workers protesting for shorter hours were met with police violence and a subsequent bombing, resulting in wrongful convictions and executions. The event galvanized international labor movements and, at the Second International's 1889 congress in Paris, May 1st was declared International Workers' Day in honor of the Haymarket martyrs and as a continuing call for the eight-hour workday. It became a day of demonstrations, strikes, and celebrations for workers' rights worldwide.
HN commenters discuss the history of May Day and its connection to the Haymarket affair. Some point out the common misconception that May Day commemorates the Haymarket bombing itself, rather than the broader movement for the eight-hour workday for which the executed anarchists were rallying. Others highlight the historical revisionism and propaganda surrounding the event, particularly the portrayal of the accused as violent agitators. A few users delve deeper into the specific legal aspects of the trial, emphasizing its unfairness and the lack of evidence linking the defendants to the bombing. The thread also briefly touches upon the international adoption of May Day as a workers' holiday and its subsequent evolution in different countries.
A federal judge has determined that Apple's chief security officer, Thomas Moyer, committed perjury during an Epic Games v. Apple trial in 2021. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers found Moyer falsely claimed Apple doesn't categorize apps for security screenings, contradicting evidence showing a special category existed for iMessage and FaceTime. The judge has made a criminal contempt referral to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and referred the matter to the State Bar of California for potential disciplinary action. This ruling has no bearing on the original Epic v. Apple case outcome.
Hacker News commenters discuss the implications of the judge's ruling against the Apple executive, with many focusing on the rarity and significance of a criminal contempt referral. Several question the strength of the evidence, wondering what constituted "lying under oath" in this specific context and expressing skepticism that it warrants such a serious consequence. Some speculate about Apple's legal strategy and potential outcomes, while others highlight the unusual nature of a judge taking such direct action. A few commenters also note the impact this could have on Apple's appeal and the overall antitrust case. Some users question the impartiality of the judge and the narrative presented in the article. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the details and a general curiosity about how this development will affect the ongoing legal battle.
This blog post details a vulnerability discovered in Chrome extensions that allowed malicious extensions to bypass the sandbox and gain access to the user's system. The core issue exploited the Message Channel Protocol (MCP), a mechanism used for communication between different components of an extension. By crafting specific messages, a malicious extension could trick the privileged component (running outside the sandbox) into executing arbitrary code, effectively escaping the sandbox's protections. This vulnerability, now patched, highlighted the risks associated with the complex interactions between sandboxed and unsandboxed components within Chrome extensions, demonstrating how seemingly benign communication channels can be manipulated for malicious purposes. The discovery underscores the need for continuous security audits and reinforces the importance of cautious extension installation practices.
Several commenters on Hacker News express skepticism about the severity of the vulnerability described in the article. They argue that the "sandbox escape" is more of a sandbox bypass, as it relies on tricking the user into granting broader permissions, rather than a true exploit of the sandbox itself. Some also question the practicality of the attack, noting the difficulty of convincing a user to install a malicious extension and then grant it access to local files. The discussion highlights the inherent tension between security and functionality in browser extensions, with some users suggesting that the current permission model is already too complex and confusing for the average user. A few commenters also discuss the potential for similar vulnerabilities in other browser extensions and the need for improved security measures. Finally, there's debate about the responsibility of extension developers versus the browser vendors in preventing these types of attacks.
This blog post details how to run the large language model Qwen-3 on a Mac, for free, leveraging Apple's MLX framework. It guides readers through the necessary steps, including installing Python and the required libraries, downloading and converting the Qwen-3 model weights to a compatible format, and finally, running a simple inference script provided by the author. The post emphasizes the ease of this process thanks to MLX's optimized performance on Apple silicon, enabling efficient execution of the model even without dedicated GPU hardware. This allows users to experiment with and utilize a powerful LLM locally, avoiding cloud computing costs and potential privacy concerns.
Commenters on Hacker News largely discuss the accessibility and performance hurdles of running large language models (LLMs) locally, particularly Qwen-7B, on consumer hardware like MacBooks with Apple Silicon. Several express skepticism about the practicality of the "free" claim in the title, pointing to the significant time investment required for quantization and the limitations imposed by limited VRAM, resulting in slow inference speeds. Some highlight the trade-offs between different quantization methods, with GGML generally considered easier to use despite potentially being slower than GPTQ. Others question the real-world usefulness of running such models locally, given the availability of cloud-based alternatives and the inherent performance constraints. A few commenters offer alternative solutions, including using llama.cpp with Metal and exploring cloud-based options with pay-as-you-go pricing. The overall sentiment suggests that while running LLMs locally on a MacBook is technically feasible, it's not necessarily a practical or efficient solution for most users.
Copying SQLite databases between machines can be faster than simply copying the file. Using the sqlite3 .dump command exports the database schema and data as SQL statements, which can then be piped to sqlite3 on the destination machine to recreate the database. This method avoids copying potentially wasted empty space within the database file, resulting in a smaller transfer and quicker import. While rsync can be efficient, this dump and import method offers an even faster solution, especially for databases with a lot of free space.
HN users discuss various aspects of copying SQLite databases. Several highlight rsync as a faster, simpler alternative for initial copies and subsequent updates, particularly with the --sparse option for handling holes in files. Some suggest using sqlite3 .dump and sqlite3 .read for logical copies, emphasizing portability but acknowledging potential slowdowns with large datasets. Others delve into the nuances of SQLite's locking behavior and the trade-offs between copying the database file directly versus using the dump/restore method, especially concerning transactional consistency. Finally, the potential benefits of using mmap for faster reads are mentioned.
Codd's cellular automaton is a self-replicating cellular automaton designed by Edgar F. Codd as a simplified version of von Neumann's universal constructor. Using an 8-state rule set on a square grid, it's capable of universal computation and self-replication, demonstrating that a relatively simple set of rules can give rise to complex behavior. The automaton's "organisms" consist of a looped instruction tape controlling a constructing arm, allowing it to copy its own tape and construct new offspring. While more complex than Conway's Game of Life, Codd's automaton is significantly simpler than von Neumann's original design, achieving self-replication with fewer states and a less intricate structure.
HN users discuss Codd's self-replicating cellular automaton, primarily focusing on its historical significance in the development of artificial life and its relationship to von Neumann's earlier, more complex self-replicating automaton. Several commenters highlight Codd's simplification of von Neumann's design, achieving self-replication with fewer states and a simpler rule set. Some discuss the implications for the origins of life and the potential for emergent complexity from simple rules. One commenter notes the connection to Conway's Game of Life, which further simplified these concepts and gained wider popularity. Others mention practical applications and the use of Codd's automaton in research. A few express interest in exploring implementations and variations of the automaton.
To identify potential North Korean IT workers disguised as other nationalities and avoid legal issues associated with hiring them, interviewers can ask about their experience with specific, culturally relevant South Korean pop culture phenomena, like popular TV dramas or K-pop groups. Genuine South Koreans (or those with actual South Korean cultural immersion) would likely have some familiarity with these topics, while imposters, even with fabricated backgrounds, are less likely to possess the nuanced knowledge necessary to convincingly discuss them. This cultural touchstone approach offers a more reliable screening method than relying solely on resumes or claimed nationalities.
Hacker News users discuss the practicality and ethics of using the proposed interview question ("What's your favorite brand of instant noodles?") to identify North Korean IT workers posing as South Koreans. Several commenters express skepticism, pointing out that cultural osmosis between the two countries makes this an unreliable filter, with North Koreans likely aware of popular South Korean brands. Others raise concerns about the ethical implications, suggesting it perpetuates stereotypes and potentially discriminates against legitimate workers. Some suggest alternative, more technical questions focusing on specific software or development practices would be more effective, while others dismiss the entire premise as fear-mongering and unlikely to be a widespread issue. A few commenters offer humorous takes, suggesting absurd follow-up questions or pointing out the potential for candidates to easily research the "correct" answer. Overall, the consensus leans towards the question being ineffective and potentially harmful.
Summary of Comments ( 1 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43872799
Hacker News users discuss the impressive visualization of galaxies across different wavelengths. Several commenters express awe at the sheer beauty and scale of the universe depicted, while others delve into the technical aspects, explaining how the composite image was created by combining data from different telescopes observing in infrared, visible, ultraviolet, and X-ray wavelengths. Some highlight the scientific value of such images, explaining how they reveal hidden details about galactic structure, star formation, and the presence of supermassive black holes. A few commenters share links to similar visualization tools and resources for exploring astronomical data. One user points out the challenge of comprehending the vast distances and timescales involved in observing such distant objects.
The Hacker News post "A visual feast of galaxies, from infrared to X-ray" has generated several comments discussing various aspects of the image and its scientific implications.
One commenter points out the value of combining multiple wavelengths of light, highlighting how features become apparent only when different spectra are overlaid. They emphasize how X-rays reveal active galactic nuclei and supermassive black holes, while infrared shows dust and star formation regions obscured in visible light. This commenter also praises the ESA for making such images accessible to the public.
Another comment focuses on the specific galaxy cluster depicted, Abell 2744, also known as Pandora's Cluster. They mention the gravitational lensing effect observed in the image, where the immense gravity of the cluster bends light from more distant galaxies, creating distorted arcs and streaks. This comment also notes the scientific significance of studying such clusters for understanding the large-scale structure of the universe and the distribution of dark matter.
Further discussion delves into the challenges of processing and visualizing such complex multi-spectral data. One commenter expresses curiosity about the specific techniques used by the ESA to combine the different wavelengths into a single, cohesive image. They wonder about the decisions involved in assigning colors to invisible wavelengths like X-rays and infrared, and how these choices impact the viewer's interpretation of the data.
Another commenter remarks on the sheer beauty and awe-inspiring nature of the image, reflecting on the vastness of space and the countless galaxies it contains. They express a sense of wonder at the intricate details visible in the image and the complex physical processes at play within these distant galaxies.
Finally, a comment links to a higher-resolution version of the image hosted on the ESA website, allowing readers to explore the image in greater detail and appreciate its full visual impact. This comment provides a valuable resource for those who want a closer look at the galaxies and clusters depicted.
Overall, the comments on the Hacker News post demonstrate a mix of appreciation for the image's aesthetic qualities, curiosity about the underlying science, and technical interest in the methods used to create it. They highlight the value of such images for both public outreach and scientific research.