q-analog of rising powers
The previous post looked at the probability that a random n by n matrix over a finite field of order q is invertible. This works out to be This function of q and n comes up in other contexts as well and has a name that we will get to
Read moreThe problem with the tech debt mindset
Ryan chats with Jon Bevan, a software engineer currently building the cloud version of Scriptrunner, an Atlassian app, about the concept of tech debt. They explore how tech debt can arise from outdated technology choices, shortcuts, and the need for maintenance work. They also delve into the challenges of upgrading
Read moreSolvability of linear systems over finite fields
If you have n equations in n unknowns over a finite field with q elements, how likely is it that the system of equations has a solution? The number of possible n × n matrices with entries from a field of size q is qn². The set of invertible n ×
Read moreWhy do medical tests always have error rates?
Most people implicitly assume medical tests are infallible. If they test positive for X, they assume they have X. Or if they test negative for X, they’re confident they don’t have X. Neither is necessarily true. Someone recently asked me why medical tests always have an error rate. It’s a
Read moreJava, but why? The state of Java in 2024
Ben and Ryan chat with listener, professional pilot, and Java enthusiast Lenny Primak about what he finds exciting about Java in 2024.
Read moreWhat business leaders need to know about AI
From performing data analyses, to summarizing complex research findings, to analyzing patterns across millions of images, AI today is seemingly limitless in its powers and possibilities. While just a few years ago many were asking, “what can AI do?,” it may now be more appropriate to ask, “what can’t AI
Read moreHow to bridge the gap between Web2 skills and Web3 workflows
You’re familiar with older web and pre-web languages like JavaScript and Java. Did you know that you can use these well-known languages with Web3 technologies?
Read moreThe framework helping devs build LLM apps
Ben and Eira talk with LlamaIndex CEO and cofounder Jerry Lu, along with venture capitalist Jerry Chen, about how the company is making it easier for developers to build LLM apps. They touch on the importance of high-quality training data to improve accuracy and relevance, the role of prompt engineering,
Read moreHow to become a cloud engineer: Skills & career guide
If you’re a big-picture thinker and constant learner who loves to code, a career as a cloud engineer could be in your future. Cloud engineers tackle tough problems that require both detail-oriented and holistic mindsets. The field is growing rapidly and shows no signs of slowing. Whether you’re a recent
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