peteris.rocks · 58 min read
A comprehensive walkthrough of htop's interface, explaining every field from uptime and load averages to process states (R/S/D/Z/T/t) and memory metrics (VIRT/RES/SHR). The author uses /proc filesystem dives, strace, code examples, and hands-on experiments to debunk common misconceptions (e.g., load average ≠ CPU usage). Includes an appendix analyzing every startup process on Ubuntu Server 16.04 and an extreme slimming guide. For backend engineers who want to truly understand Linux process monitoring.
www.quantamagazine.org · 14 min read
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has detected unexpectedly massive black holes and overly bright galaxies in the early universe, challenging established astrophysical models. This article presents three core puzzles: 'little red dots' that may be black holes shrouded in dense gas or a new class of 'black hole stars'; supermassive black holes that seem to exceed Eddington-limited growth, potentially explained by super-Eddington accretion or direct collapse; and galaxies too luminous for their age, possibly due to higher star-formation efficiency, starburst episodes, or a top-heavy initial mass function. Observational evidence like MIRI's detection of galaxy diversity and nitrogen overabundance is discussed, alongside recent simulations that better match high-redshift data. The piece features candid interviews with astrophysicists (Charlotte Mason, Jenny Greene, Rachel Somerville) and focuses on competing theories without PR hype.
x.com · 10 min read
This article advocates shifting from writing single prompts to designing loops—automated systems that keep AI agents working without human intervention. It breaks down a loop into six components: automation triggers, git worktrees for parallel isolation, skills (procedure manuals), connectors, sub-agents, and persistent memory files (e.g., STATE.md). The evaluator-optimizer pattern is highlighted: one agent generates, another verifies against objective gates like test suites or type checkers. Stop conditions must be checkable by external signals, not the agent's own claim. An autonomy ladder (suggest, draft, apply low-risk, full auto) helps gradually earn trust. The article also warns about token costs and the need for command allowlists in unattended loops.