OpenAI has released the Assistants API, allowing developers to build agent-like experiences in their applications. Assistants are purpose-built AIs that have specific instructions, access to extra knowledge, and the ability to call models and tools to perform tasks. The API provides capabilities such as Code Interpreter, Retrieval, and function calling, reducing the burden on developers and enabling the creation of high-quality AI apps. The API offers flexibility for various use cases, including natural language-based data analysis, coding assistance, AI-powered vacation planning, voice-controlled DJing, and smart visual canvases. The Assistants API is built on the same capabilities as the new GPTs product, with features such as persistent and infinitely long threads for improved context management. The API allows access to tools like Code Interpreter for executing Python code, Retrieval for augmenting knowledge from external sources, and function calling to invoke user-defined functions. OpenAI assures that user data and files passed to the API are not used to train their models, and developers have control over deleting the data as desired. The Assistants API beta can be tested in the Assistants playground without any coding required.

The AnimeAI tool is a platform that allows users to easily create anime hero profile pictures. With over 50 art styles to choose from, inspired by popular anime series such as Naruto, Attack on Titan, and Demon Slayer, users can personalize their profile pictures in a unique and engaging way. Whether you're a fan of action-packed adventures or captivating storytelling, AnimeAI has a diverse range of art styles to cater to your preferences. Creating an anime hero profile picture is simple and hassle-free, making it accessible to users of all skill levels. With just a few clicks, users can dive into the world of anime and showcase their favorite characters or create their own unique hero. AnimeAI is the perfect tool for anime enthusiasts who want to add a touch of creativity and personalization to their online profiles.

Deepfakes, which are artificially generated media using deep-learning technology, have raised concerns about their potential impact on the veracity of news and political communication. While there have been few real-world examples of deepfake harm, the Russo-Ukrainian war provides a case where deepfakes have been used for misinformation. A study analyzed tweets related to deepfakes and the war to understand people's reactions and uncover evidence of the theorized harms of deepfakes on trust. The researchers collected 4869 relevant tweets from the first seven months of 2022 and found that misinformation often stemmed from mislabeling genuine media as deepfakes. They also discovered a connection between deepfakes and conspiratorial beliefs that world leaders had been replaced. The study suggests the need to promote deepfake literacy to address misunderstandings, but also warns that awareness efforts may undermine trust in genuine videos. News media and governments should carefully consider the risks and benefits of educational deepfakes and how they label suspected deepfake content to avoid further suspicion.

In a recent episode of the Postgres FM podcast, the hosts briefly discussed data encryption in PostgreSQL. While they acknowledged that there is no data encryption by default in PostgreSQL, they did not delve into the available options for implementing encryption. In this blog post, the author provides a more comprehensive survey of encryption options for PostgreSQL. They explain that perimeter defenses such as firewalls and strong passwords can only provide limited protection, as once an attacker gains access to the database, they can freely read and steal the data. To mitigate this risk, the author suggests implementing encryption at the storage and database layers. Encryption at rest, such as full-disk encryption or volume encryption, protects against offline attacks but offers no protection while the system is running. Transparent Database Encryption (TDE), implemented inside the database server, provides limited additional protection but does not prevent SQL-level data dumps. The most effective approach, according to the author, is field-level encryption, which involves encrypting data before it is stored in the database and decrypting it when retrieved. However, this approach has limitations in terms of interoperability and query capabilities. The author also advises against using PostgreSQL's data encryption functions due to security vulnerabilities and outdated cryptography techniques. Instead, they advocate for their own project, Enquo, which provides a language- and framework-agnostic cryptosystem that enables efficient querying of encrypted data. The author's goal is to encrypt all data, all the time, and they invite readers to visit enquo.org for the open-source project or enqoudb.com for commercial support.

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered a new light isotope of nitrogen, Nitrogen-9, which exhibits a unique decay process. Nitrogen-9 is located on the proton-rich edge of the Chart of Nuclides and is close to the limit of what can be considered a nuclear state. The researchers obtained evidence for Nitrogen-9 from data collected at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory. Nitrogen-9 can be viewed as five unbound protons surrounding an alpha-particle, held together by their mutual interactions. The protons are subsequently liberated in steps, with the simultaneous emission of a first and then a second pair of protons. This discovery provides valuable insight into the quantum mechanics of open, unbound many-body systems. The researchers also published a paper on how to analyze experiments that yield results on exotic nuclei. Understanding unstable nuclear configurations and the reactions that produce them helps scientists comprehend the isotopes that exist on Earth and their relative abundance.

Introducing Niche Finder, a niche market research tool that helps users discover niche markets, analyze competitors, and gather valuable insights. The company is currently looking for early users to join and provide feedback to shape the future of the tool. The first 100 users will have free access to premium features as a thank-you for their contribution. The feedback and insights from early users will be crucial in refining Niche Finder to meet their needs. Users can sign up on the website and explore the various features, sharing their experiences and feedback with the company. By joining the Niche Finder community, users will have the opportunity to redefine market research together. Niche Finder aims to uncover the full potential of users' niches and invites interested individuals to sign up and get started.

In their latest blog post, the focus is on the power of app analytics in reducing subscription churn. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding user behavior and engagement metrics to effectively address the issue of subscribers canceling their subscriptions. App analytics provides valuable insights into how users interact with an app, allowing developers to identify potential reasons for churn. By analyzing metrics such as user retention rates, session durations, and feature usage, developers can pinpoint areas of improvement that may encourage users to stay engaged. The blog post highlights the significance of understanding the user journey and identifying any pain points or obstacles along the way. By analyzing data on user interactions, developers can optimize the app experience to enhance satisfaction and minimize churn. Additionally, app analytics can assist in identifying patterns and trends in user behavior, allowing developers to create targeted retention strategies. Through personalized messaging and offers, developers can proactively engage with users and address their specific needs. Overall, the article stresses the importance of leveraging app analytics to gain insights into user behavior and make data-driven decisions aimed at reducing subscription churn.

Supersparks.io is a web app that allows Webflow users to incorporate user-generated content (UGC) into their websites. Currently, the platform offers options for commenting and reviews. What sets Supersparks.io apart is its unique feature that enables users to customize the design of their comment and review sections using the Webflow Designer. Additionally, the app integrates seamlessly with Webflow Memberships and Memberstack, allowing logged-in members to have their user data displayed alongside their UGC. With this functionality, users can create their own personalized community, similar to platforms like Goodreads or Letterboxd, using Supersparks.io and Webflow. The product is already generating monthly recurring revenue and has been developed solely by the founder thus far, but they are now seeking a co-founder to scale the company. The founder is open to partnering with someone who has any background but being based in North or South America or having an interest in the no-code/Webflow space would be advantageous.