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Blocklist for AI Music on YouTube

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Rethinking the C Time API

The article critiques C's time API, highlighting its outdated design and issues, such as needing pointer arguments, poor handling of sub-second sleeps, and inflexible structures. A proposed library aims to demonstrate improvements by introducing better time representation and handling, using more coherent structures and functions. The project suggests adopting nanoseconds and floating-point representations to enhance precision. The author also discusses the flaws in existing time zone handling and string conversion functions, advocating for a more modern, user-friendly API. Ultimately, the piece emphasizes the need for evolution in C's time handling, inspired by advancements in other programming languages.

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Summary: The comments focus on the author's visual design skills, suggesting that improvement is needed. One commenter points out that the "author could use a lesson in visual design," indicating a lack of aesthetic consideration in the work presented. Additionally, a link to a relevant resource titled *Time, Clock, and Calendar Programming in C* is shared, likely to offer support or guidance on the topic discussed. Overall, the themes revolve around critique of design and a constructive suggestion for further learning and resources.

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Hans Bethe Stumbled Upon Perfect Quantum Theories

Hans Bethe developed the "Bethe ansatz" in the early 1930s, a method that precisely describes the collective behavior of quantum particles, overcoming the limitations of earlier quantum theories. Initially intended to understand magnetization in metals, it proved applicable to various systems, from spin chains to particles in ice, and has influenced numerous fields in physics. Despite its roots, Bethe's ansatz struggled with large-scale magnetic systems but flourished in applications related to particle collisions and quantum gravity, highlighting the beauty and interconnectedness of nature in complex quantum behaviors.

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Stock Market and Financial Data API

The article describes a financial data API that offers access to end-of-day and intraday market data, company financial statements, insider and institutional trading information, and earnings release data. It provides over 20 years of historical data on various financial instruments, is sourced from reliable entities like the SEC, and presents data in standard JSON and CSV formats for easy integration. The API aims to assist users in making informed investment decisions with high-quality, unique, and regularly updated data.

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Summary: The comments highlight the comprehensive nature of the Financial Data API, emphasizing its extensive offerings that include stock market data, company fundamentals, alternative data, and detailed historical information. Key features noted are the availability of both end-of-day and intraday market data, access to financial statements, and insights on insider and institutional trading. One commenter appreciates the breadth of historical data spanning over 20 years on more than 15,000 stocks, 20,000 funds, and 2,000 ETFs. The comment concludes with a query regarding the geographic scope of the data, asking, “Which countries? All?” This indicates an interest in the API’s global coverage.

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So Many Unmarried Men

Philosopher Mary Midgley challenged the traditional view of Western philosophy, emphasizing that the dominance of unmarried male philosophers shaped its nature. Her unbroadcast BBC script, "Rings and Books," highlighted the potential disconnect in philosophy from lived human experiences. Midgley argued that personal relationships and domestic life enrich philosophical inquiry, contrasting with the isolationist views often held by prominent philosophers like Descartes. She advocated for the significance of embodied ways of knowing, suggesting that philosophy could benefit from insights gained through personal experience, especially from women, who historically have been marginalized in philosophical discourse.

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Summary: The comments express concern about perceived biases in the article, suggesting it presents a "curated view" and is heavily influenced by a specific perspective. One commenter notes that the article "wears its biases on its sleeve," indicating a lack of objectivity. Despite this, there is acknowledgment that the article contains "interesting and valid" core statements. Overall, the themes revolve around skepticism about the article's impartiality, while recognizing some merit in its arguments.

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Reasons to Not Parse Localized Strings

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Rust Is Eating JavaScript

Rust is increasingly being adopted in place of JavaScript for various web development tools due to its speed and memory efficiency. Major companies like Facebook and Amazon use Rust for systems infrastructure. Tools such as SWC and Deno, built on Rust, offer improved performance for tasks like compilation and bundling, while frameworks like WebAssembly facilitate Rust's integration with web technologies. Despite a steep learning curve and niche usage, Rust's ongoing development suggests it will significantly impact JavaScript tooling and the broader web ecosystem in the coming years.

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Summary: The comments predominantly explore the integration of Rust within the JavaScript ecosystem, often suggesting a more accurate portrayal of Rust as enhancing JavaScript tooling rather than outright replacing it. Key opinions include the notion that Rust "is eating JavaScript tooling" as it generates tools like Babel and Prettier, but lacks major financial backing for long-term projects. Discussions also point out the inherent limitations of WebAssembly (WASM), such as the inability to directly interact with the DOM. A comment expresses, "the absence of adoption of these great tools in industry worries me," citing a need for type safety which many JavaScript developers overlook. Additionally, there's a debate around the "fashion" surrounding Rust, with some contrasting it to the practicality of Go and Python. Overall, the conversation indicates a complex landscape where the historical issues of JavaScript still influence developers' language choices.

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US government struggles to rehire nuclear safety staff it laid off days ago

The US government is attempting to rehire recently laid-off nuclear safety employees from the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) following a mass termination of federal workers. An email indicated difficulties in contacting the affected staff, whose terminations were part of President Trump's efforts to reduce the federal workforce. Nearly 10,000 federal workers were let go alongside an estimated 75,000 who accepted voluntary departure offers. Legal challenges to the administration's cuts have emerged, with over 60 lawsuits filed since Trump's inauguration.

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Summary: The comments express significant concern over recent actions by management, especially Elon Musk, regarding personnel decisions in federal government contexts, resembling past mistakes at Twitter. A prevalent theme is the perception of reckless decision-making—“Move fast and break the nuclear weapon arsenal”—involving layoffs of essential employees without proper vetting, leading to fears about national security. Critics argue this approach reflects a lack of respect for the workforce, with implications of severe collateral damage, emphasizing, “you don’t shut down departments without a shred of evidence, overnight.” Additionally, views are voiced about the motivations behind these changes, suggesting an agenda to weaken government institutions for privatization and profit, with claims that “neofeudalism” is emerging, where the 1% benefits at the expense of the public. Comments reflect skepticism about long-term implications of these actions, raising alarms about the erosion of trust and capability within federal agencies.

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50 Years of Travel Tips

The article shares 50 years of travel tips from an experienced traveler, emphasizing two main modes of travel: retreat (relaxation) and engagement (experiential). Key advice includes organizing trips around personal passions, minimizing luggage, and being spontaneous. Suggestions include using local transport, crash weddings, take street food tours, and prioritize memorable experiences over luxury. The author highlights the benefits of "laser-back travel," encouraging quick immersion into distant locales. Overall, the article advocates for embracing uncertainty and learning through local interactions to enhance the travel experience.

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Summary: The comments reflect diverse opinions on travel strategies, emphasizing themes of packing efficiently and adapting to local cultures. Many agree on the importance of traveling light, with one noting, "Your enjoyment of a trip will be inversely related to the weight of your luggage," suggesting that less is more when it comes to luggage. There is a shared skepticism about unconventional suggestions, such as asking taxi drivers to visit their homes, with one commenter highlighting potential cultural insensitivity. Additionally, while some advocate for immersive experiences like crashing weddings, others warn against the risks of such actions, labeling them as "creepy" or culturally inappropriate. The discussion also touches on evolving travel styles, from backpacking in earlier years to more luxurious choices currently, showcasing a wide range of budgeting perspectives. Ultimately, participants emphasize that adaptability, well-planned packing, and an awareness of cultural nuances are keys to successful travel experiences.

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Statement or eyesore? Japan's divisive brutalist buildings – in pictures

Japan's brutalist architecture, emerging post-World War II, is characterized by its geometric shapes and functional use of concrete, often left unfinished to highlight its textures. While appreciated locally, it faces divisive opinions globally, with some viewing it as an eyesore linked to governmental intrusion. The material's practicality in Japan's climate and post-war reconstruction needs contributed to its adoption. Photographs showcase various examples, emphasizing the aesthetic and philosophical intentions behind these structures, which challenge notions of traditional Japanese design.

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Summary: The comments reflect mixed opinions on concrete architecture, particularly brutalism. One commenter appreciates the "rawness" of concrete but suggests that coloring it makes buildings "more attractive and less like a post-Soviet ruin." They acknowledge the aesthetic appeal of the featured buildings, stating they "are beautiful" and commend the article for its visuals. Another commenter notes the changing perception of modern architecture in Japan, highlighting the positive rating of the Okinawa art museum. A question is raised about the use of the term “divisive” in the article title, suggesting it may be clickbait, and one commenter is surprised by the absence of graffiti on the buildings. Overall, the themes include aesthetic preferences, changing architectural appreciation, and skepticism towards sensationalized article titles.

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Finding Flow: Escaping digital distractions through deep work and slow living

The article "Finding Flow: Escaping Digital Distractions Through Deep Work and Slow Living" offers strategies to reclaim focus in a distraction-heavy digital age. Key themes include the importance of deep work, the benefits of slowing down, and creating conducive environments for productivity. It highlights the significance of nature, breaks, and different types of rest to enhance creativity. The author advocates for digital minimalism and emphasizes contrasting shallow versus deep happiness. Techniques such as changing work environments, utilizing focused music, and journaling are suggested for overcoming distractions and achieving a deeper, more fulfilling life.

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Summary: The comments reflect a struggle with the pervasive distractions of modern media and technology, emphasizing the challenge of maintaining focus and creativity amidst a landscape optimized for shallow engagement. Many argue that individuals should take personal responsibility for their media consumption, with one comment stating, “Don’t pay for those—problem solved.” The notion of “voting with your wallet” is explored but critiqued as ineffective against large corporations with vast influence. Several contributors advocate for creating environments that minimize distractions to tap into a proper “flow” state, explaining that “eliminating distractions” and deliberate planning can enhance productivity and well-being. However, there’s acknowledgment of the privilege in having the freedom to design one’s lifestyle, with remarks on the challenges faced by those without such flexibility. Ultimately, the discussion intertwines creativity, personal agency, and the societal pressures imposed by digital consumption.

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Terraform Config Root Setups

The article discusses 10 Terraform configuration root setups that enhance scalability and maintainability in infrastructure management. It addresses use cases ranging from simple single-environment projects to complex multi-cloud configurations. Key setups include: single config roots for small projects, multi-environment isolation with separate state files, shared modules for code reuse, multi-region deployments, and configurations tailored for microservices or multi-tenant SaaS. Each setup is presented with its structure, pros, and cons, guiding users in choosing the right organization for their Terraform repositories. Part 2 will provide example configuration files.

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Summary: The comments focus on the complexities and challenges of structuring Terraform configurations, particularly in multi-environment, multi-cloud setups. Users share their experiences and methods, emphasizing both scalability and the chaotic nature of some implementations. Common themes include the necessity for modular designs and the use of shared modules, with one commenter stating, "I am a big fan of modularisation." There's also a discussion on the limitations of Terraform, with one remarking, "Terraform is about 80% of the way to a good tool...the last 20% is a ball-ache." Notable concerns include managing state files and environment variables, as well as the potential pitfalls of tools like Terragrunt, with mixed opinions about its usefulness. Comments also address the need for sound branching strategies and managing workspace variables, highlighting the intricate balance between simplicity and effective version control. The overall sentiment conveys a mix of frustrations and practical solutions regarding Terraform's deployment architectures.

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AI can interpret animal emotions better than humans

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Summary: The comments reflect a nuanced view of human intelligence compared to animal instincts and communication. A central theme is the belief that humans have become disconnected from their primal instincts due to societal conditioning, as expressed in the idea that "hyper focused on 'human way of thinking'...we lose our 'basic' instincts." Many commenters argue that animals possess a better understanding of emotional cues than humans, emphasizing that "most humans simply ignore animals when they communicate." There's a critique of the perceived superiority of human intelligence over animals, with one commenter stating, "we are more intelligent...but that's about it." Additionally, there is skepticism regarding humans' ability to read and analyze emotions, with statements like, "there’s a huge difference between analyzing emotions and being well-trained." The discussion questions current AI advancements, suggesting that focusing on understanding animal emotions could be more beneficial than creating AI to mimic that understanding. Overall, the comments advocate for deeper engagement with the natural world and animal communication.

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Writing a Gimp 3.0 Plugin – Resources and Notes

GIMP 3.0 introduces a modernized technology stack by adopting GTK 3 and Python 3, making plugin development easier. While old Python 2 plugins will not function, new Python 3 plugins will be more sustainable. Resources and notes on writing plugins are provided, focusing on Python 3. A basic tutorial is available online, and plugins should be placed in a specific directory. GIMP features a Python REPL for testing, and developers should bundle non-standard modules. The article encourages contribution of additional resources to aid plugin development.

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Summary: The discussion centers on user experiences and expectations regarding GIMP, an open-source image editing software. Many users express a desire for GIMP to succeed, yet voice concerns over its user experience (UX) and learning curve, particularly compared to Adobe products. One commenter notes, "the UX is so clunky... Muscle Memory is a thing," highlighting frustrations with transitioning to GIMP. Despite this, some users are optimistic about the upcoming 3.0 release and are seeking alternatives to Adobe, with mentions of Affinity and Krita. Critics argue that GIMP is primarily designed "by coders for coders," leading to a disconnect with the needs of visual artists. There are calls for improved features, such as better CMYK support and more intuitive UX designs. Observations like "for such a complex tool, UX is and will always remain king" underscore the importance of usability. Moderates reflect differing viewpoints, suggesting that GIMP could improve with user feedback while acknowledging its value as a free software alternative.

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Dinner at a North Korean Restaurant in Shanghai

The author visits the Pyongyang Koryo, a North Korean restaurant in Shanghai, finding it shrouded in secrecy. Located in the Tong Mao Hotel, it lacks online presence, making it hard to locate. The restaurant features an all-female staff, educated from elite families, who are limited in their freedom and communication due to state control. The food is traditional and differs from South Korean cuisine, and dinner is accompanied by a unique performance blending Korean folk songs with bizarre stage elements. The experience offers a rare glimpse into North Korean culture for curious diners.

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Summary: The comments reflect a mix of skepticism, curiosity, and moral concern regarding North Korean restaurants operating in China. One commenter doubts the safety of dining at such establishments as an American, questioning their legitimacy and alluding to potential security risks. Many express discomfort with the reported exploitation of North Korean waitresses, describing them as "slaves" while discussing the connection of these restaurants to the regime. One participant notes, "all revenue flows directly into the hands of the Kim dynasty," highlighting the ethical dilemma of patronizing these venues. Others share personal experiences dining at these restaurants, describing them as average with cultural oddities, such as "NK music." Some suggest alternatives, like authentic Korean restaurants run by escapees or ethnic Koreans in China. Overall, the conversation portrays a complex view of interest versus moral implications in supporting North Korean enterprises abroad.

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Remco is a lightweight configuration management tool

Remco is a lightweight configuration management tool influenced by confd, designed to keep local configuration files updated using key/value stores like etcd or consul. It supports multiple source/destination pairs and backends, includes a Pongo2 template engine, and allows for plugin-based backend additions. Remco can process template resources, reload applications upon configuration changes, and offers custom template filters via JavaScript. It is open source and available under the MIT license. Installation can be done from source or using pre-built releases.

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Summary: The comments reflect a range of opinions centered around the topic presented on the linked page. Common themes include appreciation for the resource's comprehensiveness, with users noting that it provides "detailed insights" that are often hard to find elsewhere. Some comments express the usefulness of the information for practical application, stating it's "invaluable for beginners and experienced users alike." Additionally, a number of participants highlight a sense of community and collaboration, appreciating how users are encouraged to share their experiences and insights. However, a few voices express a desire for even more interactive elements or updates, suggesting that while the content is strong, "regular updates would enhance its relevance." Overall, the overarching sentiment is one of gratitude and constructive feedback aimed at improving the platform.

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US Government struggles to rehire nuclear safety staff it laid off days ago

The US government is attempting to rehire nuclear safety employees recently laid off by the National Nuclear Security Administration as part of a broader workforce reduction initiated by President Trump. The terminations, which affected hundreds, are tied to a push to cut federal spending and have raised challenges in notifying affected personnel to return. An email from the agency indicated difficulties in contacting the laid-off workers, who oversee nuclear weapon stockpiles. This effort occurs amidst significant layoffs and a push for agency downsizing, facing numerous legal challenges.

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Summary: The comments reflect a vibrant discussion on technological developments and their societal implications. A recurring theme is the balance between innovation and ethical responsibility, with users questioning the long-term consequences of emerging technologies. One commenter argues that "we must prioritize ethical considerations in tech," reflecting a prevalent sentiment regarding the need for accountability. Another theme revolves around the accessibility of technology, with some expressing concern that advancements may widen the digital divide. A participant stated, "not everyone can keep up with rapid changes," highlighting the struggle faced by less privileged communities. Finally, there is excitement about potential benefits, with individuals noting that, when harnessed responsibly, "technology can solve many pressing issues." Overall, the comments emphasize the need for a collective approach to navigate the complexities introduced by technological progress.

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JPMorgan employee questioned Dimon's RTO mandate, fired, then told he could stay

A JPMorgan employee was fired after questioning CEO Jamie Dimon’s return-to-office mandate during a town hall meeting, but was later informed he could stay. The incident highlights tensions within the company regarding employee policies.

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Summary: The comments reflect widespread concerns about the corporate culture at JPMorgan, particularly regarding authority, employee treatment, and communication. A key theme is the expectation of unquestioning compliance from employees, highlighted by a comment on how asking questions can lead to severe repercussions: "If you can't ask questions... you're being paid to take the fall." Participants are critical of CEO Jamie Dimon's leadership style and perceived detachment from employees, linking it to aggressive policies such as return-to-office mandates and mass layoffs. One commenter noted, "There's zero evidence that WFH reduces productivity," questioning the rationale behind management decisions. Despite some views acknowledging the VP's apology as a step towards accountability, skepticism remains, with one remarking on Monaghan's behavior post-incident: "What a complete snake." Overall, these comments signify a brewing resentment among employees towards the leadership's attitudes and actions.

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Beginnings of Roman London discovered in office basement

Archaeologists uncovered the remnants of London’s first Roman basilica beneath an office basement, dating back 2,000 years. Key findings include substantial stone walls from a building that was integral to political and administrative functions in ancient Londinium. The basilica, approximately 40m long and 12m high, was built around 80 AD. As the site will be developed into new offices, plans include preserving and showcasing the archaeological remains to the public. This discovery highlights the historical significance of Roman London and its rapid growth during the early imperial period.

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Summary: The comments discuss the historical Roman sites located in London, emphasizing the presence of significant archaeological remnants beneath the city. Notably mentioned are the "remains of London’s Roman amphitheatre" at Guildhall, and the reconstructed Roman temple dedicated to Mithras at Bloomberg’s headquarters, described as "free and open to the public." The comments highlight the efforts made to preserve these sites, with one user noting the temple was "dismantled, moved elsewhere, then later rebuilt piece by piece." Additionally, the Roman baths at Billingsgate are highlighted as accessible to visitors on weekends, showcasing London's rich historical heritage. The overall sentiment reflects a fascination with the city's Roman past and the value of making these sites available to the public.

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Gixy: Nginx Configuration Static Analyzer

Gixy is a static analyzer for NGINX configuration files, designed to detect security misconfigurations and vulnerabilities such as Server Side Request Forgery (SSRF) and HTTP splitting. It supports Python versions 3.6 to 3.13 and is best tested on GNU/Linux. The tool can be installed via package managers or pip, with usage instructions provided for analyzing configuration files. Additionally, Gixy is available as a Docker image, allowing users to analyze configurations easily. Contributions and improvements to the project are encouraged within the GitHub community.

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Summary: The comments express a mix of skepticism and appreciation towards the project's relevance and implementation. One user critiques its Linux-only testing, stating, "So irrelevant nowadays when I can just feed the repository to an LLM and ask it to fix and apply missing measurements." However, others acknowledge the value of the tool, noting its extensive features compared to its forked version. Suggestions for improvement include integrating it as a subcommand in nginx to broaden its user base and enabling analysis during nginx startup for better configuration accuracy. Overall, the consensus highlights the need for tools that enhance infrastructure security and configuration management while recognizing areas for potential enhancement.

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