arXiv is migrating its infrastructure from Cornell University servers to Google Cloud. This move aims to enhance arXiv's long-term sustainability, improve performance and scalability, and leverage Google's expertise in areas like security, storage, and machine learning. The transition will happen in phases, starting with a pilot program. arXiv emphasizes its commitment to remaining open and community-driven, with its operational control staying independent. They are also actively hiring for several roles, including software engineers and system administrators, to support this significant change.
Cornell University researchers have developed AI models capable of accurately reproducing cuneiform characters. These models, trained on 3D-scanned clay tablets, can generate realistic synthetic cuneiform signs, including variations in writing style and clay imperfections. This breakthrough could aid in the decipherment and preservation of ancient cuneiform texts by allowing researchers to create customized datasets for training other AI tools designed for tasks like automated text reading and fragment reconstruction.
HN commenters were largely impressed with the AI's ability to recreate cuneiform characters, some pointing out the potential for advancements in archaeology and historical research. Several discussed the implications for forgery and the need for provenance tracking in antiquities. Some questioned the novelty, arguing that similar techniques have been used in other domains, while others highlighted the unique challenges presented by cuneiform's complexity. A few commenters delved into the technical details of the AI model, expressing interest in the training data and methodology. The potential for misuse, particularly in creating convincing fake artifacts, was also a recurring concern.
Summary of Comments ( 106 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43726640
Hacker News users discuss arXiv's move to Google Cloud, expressing concerns about potential vendor lock-in and the implications for long-term data preservation. Some question the cost-effectiveness of the transition, suggesting Cornell's existing infrastructure might have been sufficient with modernization. Others highlight the potential benefits of Google's expertise in scaling and reliability, but emphasize the importance of maintaining open access and avoiding proprietary formats. The need for transparency regarding the terms of the agreement with Google is also a recurring theme, alongside worries about potential censorship or influence from Google on arXiv's content. Several commenters note the irony of a pre-print server initially designed to bypass traditional publishing now relying on a large tech company.
The Hacker News post titled "arXiv moving from Cornell servers to Google Cloud" generated several comments discussing the implications of this transition. Many commenters focused on the potential benefits and drawbacks of moving to a cloud infrastructure.
Several users expressed concerns about Google's potential influence over arXiv's content and operations. One commenter worried about the possibility of Google exerting censorship or prioritizing certain research based on its own interests. Another questioned whether Google might eventually try to monetize arXiv, impacting its open-access nature. The potential for vendor lock-in with Google was also raised as a long-term risk.
On the other hand, some commenters saw the move as a positive step. They argued that Google Cloud's infrastructure could offer improved performance, scalability, and reliability compared to Cornell's existing setup. This could lead to faster download speeds, increased uptime, and better overall user experience. The potential for enhanced search capabilities and integration with other Google services was also mentioned as a potential advantage.
Several comments delved into the technical aspects of the migration. One user with experience in academic computing discussed the challenges of managing a large-scale digital library and suggested that Google's expertise in this area could be beneficial. Another pointed out the potential complexities of migrating the existing data and ensuring seamless operation during the transition.
Some commenters speculated on the reasons behind arXiv's decision, suggesting factors such as cost savings, access to more advanced technology, and the need for specialized expertise that Google could provide.
A few users expressed nostalgia for Cornell's long-standing stewardship of arXiv, while acknowledging the increasing demands and complexities of maintaining the platform in the current technological landscape.
The discussion also touched on broader themes related to the role of large tech companies in academic research and the importance of preserving the open and accessible nature of scientific knowledge. Some users expressed concerns about the increasing concentration of power in the hands of a few large corporations, while others argued that collaboration with such companies could be beneficial for the advancement of science.