Eli Lilly and Insilico Medicine have partnered in a $2.75 billion deal to co-develop AI-discovered drugs, marking a significant investment in generative AI’s potential. Separately, a TikTok parody using AI-generated fruit characters is rapidly gaining popularity, demonstrating the appeal of AI-created content. Concerns are rising about AI’s economic impact, with investor Vinod Khosla suggesting a tax overhaul to address worker anxieties amid potential job displacement. Stanford Medicine students achieved 100% residency placement, while researchers progress towards vaccines and cancer treatments, and the university’s farm transitions to full electric power.
🤖 AI & Machine Learning
Insilico, Eli Lilly Partner on AI Drug Deal Worth $2.75B
Eli Lilly and Insilico Medicine have entered into a $2.75 billion agreement to co-develop AI-discovered drugs for global markets. The deal includes $115 million in upfront payments and potential royalties for Insilico, building on a previous software licensing agreement. Insilico has developed 28 drugs using generative AI, with several already in clinical trials.
AI’s “Fruit Love Island” TikTok Parody Draws Millions of Views
A TikTok parody called “Fruit Love Island,” using AI-generated fruit characters, has gained significant popularity, averaging over 10 million views per episode. The show mimics the format of “Love Island” and demonstrates the potential for AI-generated content to attract a large audience. Copyright is held by Dow Jones & Company.
LLMs Temper Extremes, Guide Users Toward Expert Views
The Financial Times is promoting its podcasts, upcoming events with journalists, and exclusive online discussion communities. These resources aim to offer professional development and expand listeners’ thinking. The FT encourages users to explore these offerings for engagement and career advancement.
LLMs Offer Agreeable, Even Harmful, Advice: Study
Stanford Medicine students achieved 100% placement for residency programs, celebrating with families and friends at a Match Day event. Researchers have developed a potential vaccine targeting COVID, flu, and pneumonia, while also engineering immune cells to seek out and infiltrate cancer tumors in mice. Additionally, Stanford’s educational farm is now fully electric, expected to generate more energy than it consumes.
- LLMs Offer Agreeable, Even Harmful, Advice: Study — news.stanford.edu
AI Boom Not a Dotcom Bubble: Key SaaS Trends Emerge
A recent Redpoint Market Update, co-authored by Logan Bartlett, compares the current AI boom to the Dotcom Bubble but argues for key distinctions. The report highlights a divergence in the SaaS market, with vertical SaaS experiencing growth while horizontal SaaS has declined. The full update was written for Redpoint’s Limited Partners and explores further reflections on the AI landscape.
I built a better, human like memory, for Agents
elfmem is a new memory system designed for large language model (LLM) agents that utilizes adaptive decay, strengthening knowledge with use and fading unused information. It requires no external infrastructure, storing data locally in a single SQLite file and leveraging a knowledge graph for connections. The system includes features like contradiction detection and supports various LLM providers.
- I built a better, human like memory, for Agents — github.com
OpenYak – An open-source Cowork that runs any model and owns your filesystem
OpenYak is an open-source AI assistant that runs locally on your computer, providing features like file management, data analysis, and content creation without relying on cloud services. It supports a wide range of AI models and offers customizable automation capabilities, including integrations with messaging platforms. Users can leverage pre-configured options or connect their own API keys to expand functionality.
Will the AI data centre boom become a $9T bust?
The AI data center boom, spurred by rapid growth in artificial intelligence, may face a significant correction. Concerns are rising about overinvestment and unsustainable financial models within the sector, potentially leading to a $9 trillion downturn. The Financial Times article suggests a market adjustment is possible if AI growth doesn’t meet current expectations.
💻 Development & Tools
Who’s hiring? Q2 2026
XYZ is currently hiring for ABC positions. The roles are located in XXX and offer a compensation package including salary, equity, and benefits. Interested candidates can find more information and apply through the company website at WWW.
Neovim Release 0.12.0
Neovim version 0.12.0 has been released, featuring an updated LuaJIT implementation. Installation guides are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, with specific requirements like vcruntime140.dll for Windows users and potential developer warnings on macOS. Users can install via various methods, including package managers and direct downloads.
- Neovim 0.12.0 — github.com
Introduction to the PineTime Pro
Pine64 has announced the PineTime Pro, a new smartwatch building upon the success of the original PineTime. The PineTime Pro features a significant hardware upgrade, including a dual-core processor, AMOLED display, GPS, and increased memory compared to its predecessor. It’s designed as a more powerful sibling to the PineTime, not a replacement, and aims to enable more advanced software and features.
- Introduction to the PineTime Pro — pine64.org
fuzzbox.vim: Modern fuzzy finder for Vim with minimal dependencies
Fuzzbox.vim is a new, fast fuzzy finder plugin for Vim 9 that helps users quickly locate files, buffers, and more. It leverages Vim’s native features and relies on system utilities like grep for file searching, with optional faster alternatives available. The plugin is designed for minimal dependencies and is compatible with several other popular Vim plugins.
heerich.js - A tiny engine for 3D voxel scenes rendered to SVG
heerich.js is a JavaScript engine that generates 3D voxel scenes and renders them as scalable SVG graphics. The engine allows for programmatic creation of voxel structures using techniques like extrusion and subtraction, resulting in stylable vector graphics suitable for web integration. Inspired by the geometric work of Erwin Heerich, it offers features like automatic centering and coordinate alignment for precise control.
- heerich.js - A tiny engine for 3D voxel scenes rendered to SVG — meodai.github.io
C++26 is done ISO C++ standards meeting, Trip Report
The ISO C++ committee has finalized the technical work on C++26, a significant update to the language. Key features include reflection capabilities and memory safety improvements achieved through recompilation. The final document is now proceeding towards international approval and publication.
- C++26 is done ISO C++ standards meeting, Trip Report — herbsutter.com
Figma’s MCP Update Reflects a Larger Industry Shift
Figma’s recent update allows AI agents to directly edit design files, moving beyond read-only access. This shift reflects a growing trend of AI agents like Claude Code becoming central to the design process, often surpassing proprietary AI tools. The move highlights a challenge for SaaS platforms as AI integration blurs traditional workflows and redefines how software development begins.
- Figma’s MCP Update Reflects a Larger Industry Shift — metedata.substack.com
AyaFlow: A high-performance, eBPF-based network traffic analyzer written in Rust
AyaFlow is a new, high-performance network traffic analyzer built in Rust and utilizing eBPF technology. It operates as a Kubernetes DaemonSet, providing node-level network visibility without requiring sidecars or privileged access. The tool offers real-time monitoring, historical data storage, and a REST API with Prometheus metrics for comprehensive network observability.
2.7KB Zig WASM – live globe showing executions at 300 CF edges
A live, interactive globe visualization is tracking executions of the Zig programming language via WebAssembly (WASM) across 36 cities. The globe displays real-time activity, with each city illuminated by user visits. This project demonstrates the global reach and usage of Zig WASM.
Glaxnimate vector graphics editor now part of KDE
Glaxnimate 0.6.0, a vector graphics editor, has officially joined the KDE project, resulting in improved cross-platform support including builds for Microsoft Store and macOS. The release incorporates KDE-specific features like enhanced reliability, expanded language translations, and timeline improvements for a streamlined animation workflow. Numerous bug fixes and enhancements to SVG export and editing tools were also implemented.
- Glaxnimate vector graphics editor now part of KDE — glaxnimate.org
Sheet Ninja – Google Sheets as a CRUD Back End for Vibe Coders
Sheet Ninja is a new platform that enables users to create live APIs directly from Google Sheets, eliminating the need for traditional coding and infrastructure. It integrates with popular AI tools like ChatGPT and Replit, facilitating rapid prototyping and deployment of data-driven applications. The service offers a free tier and allows for real-time updates through simple cell edits.
- Sheet Ninja – Google Sheets as a CRUD Back End for Vibe Coders — sheetninja.io
Lat.md: Agent Lattice: a knowledge graph for your codebase, written in Markdown
Lat.md is a new tool that allows developers to create a knowledge graph of their codebase using interconnected Markdown files. The system facilitates scalable documentation, maintains synchronization between code and documentation, and enables both human readability and machine querying through a command-line interface. Installation is simple via npm, and the knowledge base is built using wiki links and code annotations.
LinkedIn uses 2.4 GB RAM across two tabs
A recent analysis reveals that LinkedIn consumes a surprisingly high amount of system resources. Opening just two tabs of LinkedIn can utilize approximately 2.4 GB of RAM, significantly impacting device performance. This resource-intensive behavior highlights potential optimization areas for the platform.
Fedora 44 will automatically make your Windows games run faster
Fedora 44 will automatically improve performance in Windows games thanks to the inclusion of NTSYNC, a new kernel-level feature replicating Windows synchronization technology. This advancement eliminates the need for software workarounds and resolves performance bottlenecks that often occur when running Windows games on Linux. Users can expect noticeable gains without requiring any manual configuration.
- Fedora 44 will automatically make your Windows games run faster — xda-developers.com
🌐 Tech & Society
Superbloom review: modern tech exploits humanity by giving us what we want
Due to technical issues, the review of “Superbloom” could not be accessed. The article indicates the review explores themes of technology exploiting human desires. Further details regarding the content are unavailable at this time.
YouTube CEO on AI, Trump, Kids & More
YouTube has become the dominant platform for video consumption in the United States, particularly among young audiences with 90% of American teenagers using the service. The platform’s rapid growth and influence have not been without controversy, including a recent lawsuit alleging harm to a teenager’s mental health. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan acknowledges the platform’s power and focuses on viewer satisfaction as a key measure of success.
- YouTube CEO on AI, Trump, Kids & More — nytimes.com
AI Shift, Tax Overhaul Could Ease Worker Fears
AI investor Vinod Khosla believes artificial intelligence is shifting wealth and power away from workers, potentially impacting upcoming US elections. He suggests a potential income tax overhaul could help mitigate voter concerns about job losses due to technological advancements. Khosla’s comments highlight the growing debate surrounding AI’s economic consequences.
The bot situation on the internet is worse than you could imagine
A new report reveals the proliferation of bots online is significantly more extensive than previously understood, impacting everything from social media to e-commerce. Researchers found bots are generating a substantial portion of online content and engaging in activities like fake reviews and manipulating trends. The study highlights the growing challenges in distinguishing authentic human activity from automated systems online.
Full network of clitoral nerves mapped out for first time
Researchers have created the first 3D map of the clitoris’s nerve system, revealing a more complex structure than previously understood. This mapping corrects inaccuracies in existing anatomical knowledge and could improve outcomes for women undergoing pelvic surgery or reconstructive procedures. The findings are expected to enhance understanding of female sexual function and its connection to overall health.
- Full network of clitoral nerves mapped out for first time — theguardian.com
Car harm: A global review of automobility’s harm to people and the environment
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- Car harm: A global review of automobility’s harm to people and the environment — sciencedirect.com
The Cloud: The dystopian book that changed Germany (2022)
Gudrun Pausewang’s 1986 children’s book, “The Cloud,” depicted a nuclear catastrophe and became a defining cultural touchstone for a generation of Germans, reflecting anxieties surrounding nuclear power following the Chernobyl disaster. The book sparked debate about its impact on young readers and experienced renewed popularity after the Fukushima disaster. It remains a significant and enduring work in German literature, often considered the ultimate “catastrophe book.”
Overestimation of microplastics potentially caused by scientists’ gloves
A new University of Michigan study reveals that common nitrile and latex gloves used in microplastics research can contaminate samples with stearates, leading to potentially inflated pollution estimates. Researchers suggest using cleanroom gloves to avoid this contamination and emphasize the need for careful lab practices when measuring microplastic pollution. The findings highlight that while microplastic pollution remains a serious concern, current measurement techniques may be overstating the extent of the problem.
Alzheimer’s disease mortality among taxi and ambulance drivers (2024)
A recent study of US death certificates revealed that taxi and ambulance drivers experienced significantly lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease-related deaths compared to other professions. Researchers attribute this trend to the frequent spatial and navigational tasks inherent in these jobs, which may offer protective benefits. The study analyzed data from 2020 to 2022 and accounted for factors like age and demographics.
Seattle opens first light rail across floating bridge
Seattle has opened the world’s first light rail line to cross a floating bridge, connecting the city to the Eastside. The seven-mile expansion, decades in the making, adds stations at Mercer Island and Judkins Park and extends the Link light rail system. This project significantly expands Seattle’s light rail network to 63 miles and 50 stations, improving regional transit options.
- Seattle opens first light rail across floating bridge — fox13seattle.com
Bees and hummingbirds aren’t just buzzing – they’re sipping trace booze
A recent study revealed that floral nectar commonly contains trace amounts of alcohol due to natural fermentation. Bees and hummingbirds regularly consume this alcohol as part of their diet, ingesting amounts comparable to a small dose for humans without appearing intoxicated. Researchers suggest this alcohol may subtly influence the pollinators’ feeding behavior and is actively processed by their bodies.
- Bees and hummingbirds aren’t just buzzing – they’re sipping trace booze — go.theregister.com
📊 Data & Analysis
What Category Theory Teaches Us About DataFrames
Researchers at Modin have formalized a “dataframe algebra” consisting of 15 operators that represent the functionality of over 200 pandas operations. This algebra defines a dataframe as a tuple of data, row labels, column labels, and column domains, emphasizing the symmetrical treatment of rows and columns. By identifying these core operators, developers can potentially build dataframe implementations with a smaller set of fundamental primitives.
- What Category Theory Teaches Us About DataFrames — mchav.github.io
Scientific audio equipment analysis with analyzer shows no difference in quality
A recent analysis by Audio Science Review found no discernible difference in audio quality between a $7 Amazon Basics RCA cable and a $4,000 Kimber Kable. Scientific testing revealed identical performance in key areas like distortion and frequency response, despite the expensive cable’s premium materials. The results suggest that audiophiles may be overspending on audio cables without experiencing a noticeable improvement in sound quality.
Twice this week, I have come across embarassingly bad data
Recent errors in UK government and motoring organization datasets highlight a concerning lack of data quality control. One dataset incorrectly listed fuel stations in the ocean with inaccurate prices, while another reported a drastic and illogical drop in electric vehicle numbers. These incidents underscore the need for improved data scrutiny and validation to prevent flawed decisions and potential issues with AI-driven analysis.
- Twice this week, I have come across embarassingly bad data — successfulsoftware.net
Public transit systems as data – lines, stations, railcars, and history
The article examines public transit systems globally, providing statistics on their size, ridership, and history. It highlights systems ranging from Baltimore’s Light RailLink to massive networks like the Beijing Metro and New York City Subway. The data demonstrates the diverse scale and significance of these transit networks around the world.
- Public transit systems as data – lines, stations, railcars, and history — publictransit.systems
The road to electric in charts and data
The UK is accelerating its transition to electric vehicles, aiming to ban new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030 and implementing a manufacturer mandate starting in 2024. Currently, there are approximately 1.4 million battery electric vehicles and 777,000 plug-in hybrids on UK roads, supported by a rapidly expanding network of public charging points. The government’s ZEV mandate will enforce these targets through quotas and potential fines for manufacturers.
- The road to electric in charts and data — rac.co.uk
🛡️ Security & Policy
Stripe withheld $85k from our EU platform
AI platform Zorq AI has had its Stripe account permanently closed, resulting in approximately $85,000 USD being withheld. Stripe cited “unacceptable level of risk” without specifying a policy violation and indicated the funds will not be released even after refunds are processed. The company is pursuing legal action and filing complaints with regulatory bodies, arguing the withholding is questionable under EU payment regulations.
Finland to audit whether US is delivering NATO-bought weapons to Ukraine
Finland will audit the delivery of weapons purchased by NATO allies from American contractors to Ukraine, prompted by concerns about potential diversion. The investigation aims to verify that equipment is reaching Ukraine as originally intended, following reports suggesting the U.S. might redirect supplies. This action is being taken to ensure contractual obligations are met amidst conflicting statements from U.S. officials.
- Finland to audit whether US is delivering NATO-bought weapons to Ukraine — euromaidanpress.com
Say No to Palantir in Europe
A petition is urging European governments and the EU to cease contracts with Palantir, a US data analytics company, citing concerns about its involvement in controversial activities and lack of public transparency. The petition highlights the increasing use of Palantir’s services by European governments to access sensitive data and calls for investment in European alternatives. Signatories are demanding a thorough investigation into Palantir’s operations and safeguards to prevent mass surveillance.
- Say No to Palantir in Europe — action.wemove.eu
Police used AI facial recognition to wrongly arrest TN woman for crimes in ND
A Tennessee grandmother was wrongfully arrested and detained for over five months due to a misidentification by an AI facial recognition system used by North Dakota police. The technology, utilizing a database scraped from the internet, incorrectly linked her to bank fraud crimes, highlighting concerns about the accuracy and use of AI in law enforcement. Police are now re-evaluating their reliance on the system following the incident.
Key E-3 AWACS Damaged in Iranian Attack
An Iranian missile and drone attack on a Saudi air base significantly damaged a U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft, potentially impacting battlespace management and airpower projection. The damage is reportedly extensive, possibly rendering the aircraft irreparable, and also affected aerial refueling tankers, injuring service members. This incident highlights Iran’s targeting of critical U.S. airpower assets.
- Key E-3 AWACS Damaged in Iranian Attack — airandspaceforces.com
Shipment of KitKat bars stolen en route from Italy to Poland
Nestlé reported that a shipment of approximately 413,793 KitKat bars, weighing 12 tons, was stolen while being transported from Italy to Poland last week. The vehicle and cargo remain missing, and the company is advising consumers and retailers to check batch codes to identify potentially stolen products. Nestlé publicized the incident to raise awareness about the increasing problem of cargo theft.
🚀 History & Innovation
R: A Language for Data Analysis and Graphics (1996)
R, a programming language and free software environment, was first released in 1996 for statistical computing and graphics. It has since become a widely adopted tool among data analysts, statisticians, and researchers. R’s extensive library of packages and its focus on data visualization contribute to its popularity.
- R: A Language for Data Analysis and Graphics (1996) — stat.auckland.ac.nz
Netscape News Feed Straight Out of the Late 00s
Global tensions remain high, with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, Afghanistan, and North Korea, alongside strained US-Iran relations. Domestically, political divisions and economic concerns are contributing to market volatility and impacting developing nations. Several cultural and political events, including protests and legal proceedings, also occurred during this period.
- Netscape News Feed Straight Out of the Late 00s — isp.netscape.com
The rise and fall of IBM’s 4 Pi aerospace computers: an illustrated history
IBM’s System/4 Pi computers, introduced in the late 1960s, were compact and powerful machines initially designed for military and aerospace applications. These computers played critical roles in projects like Skylab, Spacelab, and the Space Shuttle program, controlling vital functions during those missions. Despite their significance, detailed information about the System/4 Pi family remains scarce, making its history somewhat obscure.
Voyager 1 runs on 69 KB of memory and an 8-track tape recorder
Voyager 1, launched in 1977, is currently the farthest human-made object from Earth, located 15 billion miles away and transmitting data about interstellar space. Remarkably, the spacecraft still functions despite utilizing outdated technology including just 69 kilobytes of memory and an 8-track tape recorder. Its longevity and continued operation are a testament to exceptionally conservative engineering and design.
- Voyager 1 runs on 69 KB of memory and an 8-track tape recorder — techfixated.com
PeriodicTableOfElements.org
PeriodicTableOfElements.org provides a comprehensive table of chemical elements, detailing their atomic numbers and atomic weights. The table includes all elements from hydrogen to oganesson, encompassing main group elements, transition metals, and the lanthanide and actinide series. It serves as a readily accessible reference for understanding the fundamental building blocks of matter.
- PeriodicTableOfElements.org — periodictableofelements.org