1. LK-99 isn’t a superconductor
Total comment counts : 76
Summary
Researchers have discovered that LK-99, a compound of copper, lead, phosphorus, and oxygen, is not a superconductor as previously claimed. The material showed properties that resembled superconductivity, such as levitation over a magnet and sharp drops in electrical resistivity, but further studies revealed that impurities in the material, particularly copper sulfide, were responsible for these effects. Replication efforts by different teams also failed to produce room-temperature superconductivity. The conclusion is that LK-99 is an insulator, not a superconductor.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article mentions that although there is disappointment in the news, there was excitement and a lot of replication around a particular paper. The most interesting part was the discussion about the potential consequences and uses of the findings, particularly in fields like pumps, MRIs, power grids, and chips. This serves as a reminder of the impact that materials science can have on underlying economics.
Top 2 Comment Summary
In this article, the author discusses a video released by Sixty Symbols, featuring Professor Philip Moriarty’s opinion on the topic of room temperature superconductors. The author mentions that Moriarty is unimpressed with the whole concept and expresses skepticism throughout. The author also admits to not paying much attention to the matter due to being jaded and assuming that there was a lot of hype over nothing. The article provides a link to the video for further information.
2. Htmx is part of the GitHub Accelerator
Total comment counts : 62
Summary
The article announces that htmx has been accepted into the GitHub Open Source Accelerator. This opportunity allows the project to collaborate and learn from successful open-source developers and projects. The goal is to work on htmx 2.0 and potentially turn it into a full-time job. Other open-source projects, such as “javascript fatigue: longing for a hypertext already in hand,” are also recommended for people to check out.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article discusses the surge in popularity of htmx, a tool for web developers. It mentions that the popularity was triggered by a video by Fireship Dev and a series of videos by ThePrimeagen, a popular Twitch streamer. The article also mentions that the creator of htmx has written essays on htmx and hypermedia in general, which can be found on the htmx website. Additionally, the creator has authored a book on hypermedia, htmx, and a mobile hypermedia called Hyperview. The author emphasizes that while they are a fan of htmx, the underlying concept of hypermedia is worth exploring even for those who don’t plan on using it in their programming. The article suggests checking out other hypermedia-oriented libraries such as Hotwire and Unpoly.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article discusses the author’s positive experience using htmx alongside Clojure and hiccup for server-side rendering. The author emphasizes how simple and flexible htmx is, stating that it should have been the natural evolution of HTML. They hope that htmx’s capabilities become integrated into HTML and web browsers in the future. The author also recommends reading essays on htmx’s website to gain a better understanding of REST and the importance of HATEOAS. The article concludes by mentioning a free book available on hypermedia systems. Lastly, the author criticizes the decision to rebuild thick clients on the web using a JSON API architecture instead of focusing on expanding and enriching the concept of hypermedia on the early web.
3. Modern CSV version 2
Total comment counts : 41
Summary
The article introduces Modern CSV version 2.0 and its new features and improvements. The author focused on enhancing the user interface, particularly in the areas of Preferences and File Metadata. They have added new themes and made subtle improvements to make the software more visually appealing. In terms of functionality, preferences can now be set through a Preferences window instead of manually editing a file. They have also introduced a File Metadata pane to simplify changing file parameters. Version 2.0 offers five themes compared to version 1’s two themes. The load time has been significantly reduced, and performance for loading files with many columns has improved. Several new features have been added, including the ability to select all results of a Find operation, open a new instance, deduplicate rows based on specific columns, reshape a range of cells, and perform statistics and column analysis. The documentation has been expanded with better navigation and search functionality. Modern CSV 2.0 no longer requires Rosetta to run on Apple Silicon machines. The author encourages users to try out the new version and share feedback.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article suggests adding a line to the announcement page of Modern CSV stating that it is a tabular file editor/viewer for Windows, Mac, and Linux. The author believes that it is important to assume that visitors to the page may not be familiar with the software and may not click on additional links to find out more information.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The user mentions that they have not used the product yet but likes two things about the website that led them to download it. Firstly, they appreciate that the website has a blog post that directly answers the question of how the product is better than Excel. Secondly, they appreciate the simple and rare pricing structure.
4. NetMaker: Connect Everything with a WireGuard VPN
Total comment counts : 31
Summary
The article is about a virtual networking solution called Netmaker that provides convenient access to external networks. It offers managed access between devices, private domains for devices, visibility into network performance, better uptime for connections, and access and RBAC (Role-Based Access Control) for users. Netmaker connects devices across different environments by bypassing NATs, firewalls, and subnets. It creates a secure overlay network that allows devices to communicate directly and securely. The solution is available in EE (Enterprise Edition) and SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) and is claimed to be better, faster, and more secure.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article discusses a comparison of various network technologies, including Yggdrasil, tinc, Tailscale, Zerotier, Netmaker, and Nebula. The author states a preference for Yggdrasil but also mentions that the comparison led them to choose Netmaker, which they have been running without any issues for experimentation. They agree that Netmaker is moving quickly in terms of development and configuration changes but expect this from a project that is still in its early releases. The author finds Netmaker’s use of vanilla WireGuard, route coordination, and STUN/TURN protocols reasonable and appreciates that the documentation is written for self-hosters.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article discusses a comparison between Tailscale and NetMaker, two networking solutions. Tailscale is noted for its self-hosting feature and extensive WireGuard support, whereas NetMaker lacks self-hosting and has limited WireGuard support. However, Tailscale’s ACLs can potentially address the limitations mentioned. The claim that data regularly passes through NetMaker’s relay servers is disputed, as it is rare in practice. The only advantage found for NetMaker is its richer free plan and use of the WireGuard kernel module.
5. A protein that disrupts cells’ energy centers may be a culprit in CFS/ME
Total comment counts : 23
Summary
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Top 1 Comment Summary
The article discusses how the onset of ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) is often linked to viral infections. The author shares a personal experience of developing the condition after a mild flu in 1996. They have since become accustomed to the fatigue but hope for a treatment or cure. They acknowledge that some people with ME/CFS are less fortunate than they are.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article discusses the need for more research on a disease without confirmed biomarkers, leading to patients being dismissed as “crazy” or making up their symptoms. The author suggests that finding a biomarker, such as a protein, could help test treatments. There is concern about a potential progression from COVID to long COVID to ME/CFS, but it is unclear how many people are affected. The topic seems to be under a media blackout due to political reasons. The article expresses hope that once there is a reliable test for the disease, improvements will occur.
6. How the iMac Saved Apple
Total comment counts : 38
Summary
The article discusses the impact and significance of the original iMac, which was released 25 years ago. The iMac introduced a fresh design that broke the norms of the PC industry at the time, with its all-in-one form factor and translucent blue-green plastic casing. The iMac also embraced new technology, such as the Universal Serial Bus (USB), which it helped popularize. The success of the iMac led to a wave of colorful, semitranslucent plastic products in the market. Additionally, the iMac’s focus on internet connectivity and simplicity made it a popular choice for families wanting to get online. The iMac’s influence extended beyond its design, as it provided Apple with a cash infusion that allowed the company to innovate and rebuild its product line. While laptops have become more prevalent today, the iMac played a crucial role in shaping Apple’s success and setting the tone for the company’s future endeavors.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The author bought a computer in November 1998 and was impressed with the ease of the online purchase process. The computer worked well right out of the box without needing any adjustments. The software available at the time was limited but sufficient for most tasks. The author commends Apple for providing a seamless experience from purchase to use, which was a departure from the norm at the time.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The original iMac was notable for its colors that appealed to non-computer people in a time when being a computer person was less accepted. Its translucent plastic design added depth and complexity to the case. Despite being underpowered, the iMac demonstrated that computers had sufficient processing power for most tasks. The clever arrangement of internal components allowed for fanless cooling through convection.
7. Putting Down the Pen: Reflecting on Oryx’s Journey
Total comment counts : 14
Summary
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Top 1 Comment Summary
The author commends Oryx for their previous work in documenting conflicts, but notes that they may be experiencing burnout due to data collection for the Ukraine/Russia war. The article highlights errors in classifying losses, specifically with T72s being misidentified as either Russian or Ukrainian. The author suggests that relying on social media sources, such as Telegram and Twitter, may not be reliable. They express their unwillingness to engage in the time-consuming task of searching for and verifying data.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article discusses how a video from last year shows a soldier instructing another soldier to capture footage of a wrecked Russian tank, specifically mentioning the name “Oryx”.
8. Is this a good book for me, now?
Total comment counts : 13
Summary
The author of the article used to believe that every book has a fixed and universal objective value. However, they have now changed their perspective and believe that a book’s value should be determined based on the individual reader and their specific context. They provide examples of books that had different impacts on them depending on their personal circumstances at the time of reading. The author argues that the relevance of a book to a person and their context is a better guide for what to read. They also discuss factors that affect a book’s value, such as personal fantasies, familiarity with the subject matter, readiness to absorb the information, and current activities or interests. The author suggests skipping sections or dropping books that are not enjoyable or beneficial, in order to make better choices and read more good books in their lifetime.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article discusses the idea that every time someone reads a book, a new book is created. It emphasizes the importance of reflecting on past books and memories, as they can change and shape how we think and feel. The author shares their personal experience of reading “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” while working a part-time job delivering pizzas on a motorcycle, which they find to be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The author finds it helpful to read book summaries in Blinkist before reading the actual book. They believe it helps them determine if they want to read the book and prepares them for what to expect, making it easier to understand and digest the content.
9. Peter Pan copyright
Total comment counts : 9
Summary
In 1929, J.M. Barrie gifted the rights to Peter Pan to Great Ormond Street Hospital. This has provided the hospital with a significant source of income to support its work. The copyright for Peter Pan expired in the UK and Europe in 1987, but an amendment to the CDPA in 1988 gave the hospital the right to royalties from stage performances, publications, audio books, films, and more. In 1996, the copyright term was extended to 70 years after the author’s death throughout the European Union. Although the novel is in the public domain in the US, the play and adaptations are under copyright until December 2023. The hospital receives a percentage of the ticket or book prices for any performances or publications of Peter Pan. Overall, the hospital will continue to benefit from Barrie’s gift in perpetuity.
Top 1 Comment Summary
This article discusses the irony of a child who refuses to grow up being given perpetual copyright. The author suggests that instead of distorting copyright law for special interests, it would have been better for the government to estimate the hypothetical royalties and establish an endowment to support the hospital.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article discusses a special provision in UK law that grants Great Ormond Street Hospital the right to receive royalties for the work “Peter Pan.” The provision is outlined in the 1988 UK legislation, Schedule 6.
10. Ted’s Notes on Pawpaws (2016)
Total comment counts : 13
Summary
The article discusses the pawpaw, the largest edible fruit native to the United States. The author shares their observations and notes about the taste of the fruit, which they describe as a cross between a banana and a mango. They also discuss the different stages of ripeness and flavor variations. The author suggests visiting orchards or farmer’s markets to try pawpaw fruit or looking for wild pawpaws. They provide tips on identifying wild pawpaws and harvesting them. The article also mentions sources for purchasing pawpaw pulp and provides information on growing pawpaw trees and propagating them from seed. The author shares their personal experiences with growing pawpaws and discusses the challenges and benefits of cultivating these trees.
Top 1 Comment Summary
This article discusses the cultivation of pawpaws and their associated health impacts. Pawpaws are easy to grow in various temperate climates, but eating them frequently can have negative health effects, potentially leading to a Parkinson’s-like syndrome. The article also provides a list of pawpaw cultivars with low levels of acetogenins, such as Sunflower, Wabash, Potomac, Zimmerman, and Wells. Additionally, it suggests that individuals in California should consider growing Cherimoyas or Atemoyas instead, as they thrive in that climate and are generally considered to be better and safer.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article mentions two favorite fruits found in the southern US: pawpaws and passion fruit. The author became acquainted with pawpaws after moving to the region and enjoys freezing and consuming them as custard. Additionally, the author’s children frequently spend their September afternoons indulging in passion fruit.