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Building My Own Workflow Automation Framework in Python

The author developed a core loop in Python to listen for events and dispatch them, akin to a personalized 'Zapier'.
Utilizing watchdog, the framework reacts immediately when a file is added to a folder, eliminating the need for polling.
The framework replaced crontab setups, consolidating all automation tasks within a unified Python process.
Features include sending Slack notifications via Webhooks and writing to Excel with openpyxl.
An addition for responding to low-priority emails was incorporated, enhancing productivity when combined with IMAP polling.
A lightweight Flask interface was integrated, allowing manual triggering of workflows through '/trigger' using tools like Postman or dashboards.
This setup enables retries, debugging, and the generation of weekly activity reports for enhanced efficiency.
The entire system can be run as a single container, easily restarted with Docker Compose, ensuring no dependency-related concerns.
The framework empowers users with total ownership and has significantly boosted the author's productivity with Python.

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Dev

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CRUD Lies: Hidden Pitfalls of Simple Updates

CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations might seem simple, but they can hide pitfalls like lost data from race conditions, lack of audit trails for critical changes, and hidden coupling between features.
The illusion of atomicity with UPDATE operations can lead to lost updates due to race conditions.
Solutions include using database locks or optimistic concurrency to prevent lost updates.
The vanishing history problem arises when apps lack proper logging of data changes, causing issues in tracking changes.
Solutions involve implementing event-driven sidecars or Change Data Capture (CDC) tools to track database changes effectively.
The dependency time bomb problem occurs when a seemingly simple column update triggers unexpected side effects due to callbacks.
Solutions include using explicit workflows or event-driven decoupling to manage callbacks more effectively.
The phantom update problem arises when UPDATE operations affect more columns than intended, leading to data discrepancies.
Solutions involve using partial updates or strict column lists to control which columns are updated.
Using CRUD is suitable for scenarios like simple admin dashboards, internal tools without audit needs, and early-stage prototypes where 'last write wins' is acceptable.
It is recommended to add auditing, replace callbacks with services, and measure impact before fully embracing event-driven architectures.

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Dev

181

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Your Web Apps Are OBSOLETE! This PWA + React + PHP Combo Changes EVERYTHING!

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are revolutionizing the digital landscape by blending the reach of the web with the features of native applications.
PWAs are reliable, fast, and engaging, offering instant loading, smooth interactions, and app-like features like push notifications.
React, known for its component-based architecture and virtual DOM, is ideal for creating rich user interfaces in PWAs.
React's ecosystem support, such as service workers and web app manifests, simplifies PWA development.
PHP complements React in PWAs by excelling in API development, database management, and server-side logic.
PHP, alongside React, ensures a clean separation of concerns in frontend and backend operations for scalable applications.
The synergy between React (frontend) and PHP (backend) involves React handling user interactions while PHP processes data and business logic.
Proper CORS configuration is crucial for React to securely communicate with a PHP backend in a PWA setup.
This PWA, React, and PHP combination allows for fluid user interactions, efficient API calls, and seamless data processing.
By leveraging the strengths of PWAs, React, and PHP, developers can build high-performance web applications that prioritize user experience.
Understanding how these technologies work together can lead to innovative web experiences that excel in performance and user satisfaction.
The alignment of PWAs, React, and PHP isn't just a concept but a practical approach to developing modern web applications that are future-proof.

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Medium

122

Architecting Scalable Microservices for Security-Critical Applications

Architecting microservices for security-critical applications involves handling real-time telemetry, compliance scans, and threat detection tasks.
High availability is crucial to prevent exposure or financial loss, with traceability being essential for audits and compliance.
Core design principles include avoiding synchronous chains between services and utilizing messaging systems for resilience.
Tenant isolation is key, requiring data to be isolated across various layers for multi-tenant platforms.
Zero trust between services is emphasized, employing mTLS, token-based authentication, and access controls for strong security boundaries.
Idempotency and replayability are important for security systems to ensure verifiable operations and audit trails.
Observability is critical, with structured logs, distributed tracing, and real-time metrics being foundational for operational maturity.
Successful usage metering framework for a SaaS security platform involved streaming billions of data points with a scalable, fault-tolerant architecture.
Common pitfalls to avoid include tight coupling between services, underestimating compliance overhead, ignoring failure modes, and building one-size-fits-all services.
Architecting for security-critical applications requires balancing scalability, compliance, and reliability while considering accountability, traceability, and trust.

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Medium

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Why AI Might Replace Your Job: A Quiet Shift We Might Not Be Ready For

Artificial intelligence is gradually entering various aspects of our lives, including jobs once considered safe from automation.
AI systems like ChatGPT and other machine learning tools are now handling tasks such as writing, customer support, accounting, coding, and legal research.
The integration of AI is often subtle and continuous, gradually improving in efficiency without drawing attention.
There is a possibility that jobs may fade or undergo significant transformations without making much noise, impacting who gets to work in the future.
The focus on speed and cost reduction in major corporations is a driving force behind the adoption of AI technologies in various industries.

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Medium

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Why Conditional Statements Are the Brains of Your Code

Conditional statements in coding allow for decision-making based on evaluating conditions.
The common conditional statements in JavaScript include if, else, else if, ternary operator, and switch.
The if statement is the simplest form and can be expanded with else and else if for multiple conditions.
The ternary operator is used as a shortcut for simple if-else statements.
The switch statement is suitable when working with fixed categories like gender, country, or weather conditions.
JavaScript can interpret values as true or false, known as truthy and falsy values.
Conditional statements enable apps to make decisions based on user input, data, or time.
They allow tailored responses for different scenarios, improving user experience (UX) with meaningful messages.
Choosing the right conditional structure can enhance app efficiency.
Conditional statements are crucial for various applications including exam portals, online stores, and signup forms.
They make software intelligent, human-like, and helpful, enhancing the user interaction.

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Dev

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Operations Order with Asynchronous JavaScript

JavaScript's Event Loop allows handling asynchronous operations without blocking the main execution thread.
Understanding the correct order of logs in scenarios involving synchronous and asynchronous operations is crucial for JavaScript developers.
The popular problem of determining log order in a given code snippet involves console.log, setTimeout, and Promises.
The expected order for the given code snippet is: First, Fourth, Third, Second.
Despite code order, asynchronous operations like setTimeout and Promises are processed based on JavaScript's event-driven model.
console.log('First') is a synchronous operation executed immediately.
setTimeout is asynchronous and scheduled in the Callback Queue after the synchronous code.
Promises are part of the Microtask Queue and have higher priority than Macrotasks.
The 'Third' log from the Promise is handled once the current synchronous code finishes.
console.log('Fourth') is another synchronous operation executed after the Promise.
Operation order in JavaScript involves synchronous code execution, draining of Microtask Queue, and processing Macrotasks.

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Medium

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Day 01/45 of coding- 3 sum problem

The 3 sum problem requires a solution set without duplicate triplets.
The brute force approach has a time complexity of O(n³), making it inefficient for large arrays.
The improved solution involves using the Two-Pointer Technique, which is more efficient.
Code snippet for the Two-Pointer Technique is provided.
The author emphasizes perseverance in problem-solving and learning.
The author encourages others to join in the learning journey and motivates beginners to keep trying.

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Medium

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How I Built My Portfolio with Zero HTML Skills and Pure AI Hustle

The author built a portfolio despite having zero HTML skills, using AI tools and inspiration from others' portfolios.
They experimented with different color schemes until settling on neon purple and blue.
GitHub Copilot and Cursor AI were essential tools in the portfolio creation process.
The tech stack used included HTML, CSS, JavaScript, anime.js, three.js, and Bootstrap.
The performance metrics varied across devices, with Google Lighthouse giving high scores for SEO, Accessibility, and Best Practices.
The author emphasizes the importance of courage in rewriting code as a key aspect of development.
They encourage others to start their development journey even if they are clueless, and to use AI assistance.
The author's portfolio can be viewed at syedahmershah.github.io/Portfolio/ for inspiration or critique.
Persistence is highlighted as a crucial trait for developers to succeed.
Tags associated with the article include webdev, portfolio, AI, studentlife, and devjourney.

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Medium

Coding and Programming are two different things.

Coding involves writing instructions for a computer using a programming language to translate human logic into computer-understandable language.
Programming encompasses the entire process of building applications like websites, apps, or games.
Coding focuses on syntax, structure, and ensuring commands are valid.
Programming includes tasks from planning system functionalities to writing code, debugging, optimizing performance, testing, and maintenance.
For instance, in building a weather app, coding is writing a function to fetch weather data while programming involves selecting APIs, designing logic, handling errors, and more.
Coding is a part of the larger programming process, similar to writing a sentence versus writing a book.
Both coding and programming are essential in the tech journey.
Understanding the difference helps individuals navigate their path in technology development.

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Medium

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Ditch the Drudgery: Why Frameworks are Your Code’s Best Friend (and Mine!)

Frameworks exist to solve pain points in coding and provide structure.
Frameworks like MVC ensure consistent code, easier collaboration, and faster onboarding.
Frameworks come with built-in security features to protect against common attacks.
Communities around popular frameworks offer documentation, tutorials, and support.
React Native and Flutter are recommended for building mobile apps for iOS and Android.
Cucumber is a great testing framework for Behavior-Driven Development (BDD).
Frameworks simplify tasks but have a learning curve with their own conventions.
Using frameworks can lead to loss of control and potential conflicts with unique project requirements.
Frameworks may introduce performance overhead for applications where speed and memory usage are critical.

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Medium

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My Zalando iOS Interview Questions + Experience

The interview process for a Zalando iOS position started with an unimpressive call from HR, followed by a live coding session focused on algorithms.
The live coding session was better, with the interviewer being clear and respectful, asking the candidate to write an algorithm to check for string permutations.
The candidate explained different approaches for checking permutations and had a good back-and-forth exchange.
There were additional questions focused on basic data structures and algorithms (DSA) during the interview.
The final round of the interview covered various iOS topics like memory management, Codable, GCD, async image loading, and edge cases in the UIViewController lifecycle.
The candidate felt confident and engaged during the final round, providing solid answers while also acknowledging areas of uncertainty.
Overall, the interview experience included technical questions about algorithms and iOS-specific topics.
The candidate was able to showcase knowledge and engage in discussions during the interview rounds.
The interviewer during the live coding session was described as focused and respectful.
The candidate elaborated on sorting versus frequency count approaches when discussing string permutations.
The interview process involved demonstrating understanding of iOS concepts like memory management and GCD.
The candidate stayed neutral despite a less-than-ideal first impression from HR, focusing on progressing through the interview stages.
The candidate had moments of uncertainty during the interview but was commended for being honest about it.
The final round of the interview allowed the candidate to showcase expertise in iOS-related topics.
The candidate's responses were well-received, including both confident answers and acknowledgments of areas needing further clarification.
The interview process covered a range of technical aspects related to iOS development and algorithm understanding.

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Dev

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Real world lessons from building MCP servers

MCP servers are widely used in tools like Claude Desktop, ChatGPT, Cursor, Cline, Postman, etc., allowing developers to integrate them for various purposes.
Knowing the main components like Tools, Resources, and Prompts is crucial for efficient implementation and to save time.
Understanding Transports is essential, with options like stdio, SSE, and Streamable HTTP, each serving different deployment models.
Utilizing a good library like FastMCP simplifies python-based MCP development.
OpenAI Responses API and Google's Agent SDK are making strides in supporting MCP servers for diverse tasks.
Differences in client tools' support for the MCP spec can lead to confusion, impacting the seamless integration of servers.
Remote MCP server support for passing environment variables presents challenges in client configurations.
MCP protocols are evolving, necessitating adaptability and awareness of changes to avoid setbacks in server development.
Building MCP servers can be challenging due to evolving standards, but understanding key concepts and tips can streamline the process.
Ensure components like Tools, Resources, and Prompt are well-defined, choose appropriate Transports, and leverage libraries for efficient MCP server development.

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Medium

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The Technologies Shaping Our Future: What Matters Now and What Comes Next

AI has moved beyond labs to power various applications and is evolving towards collaboration with humans.
Ambient computing is integrating technology into our environments seamlessly, raising concerns about privacy and autonomy.
Biotech advancements like CRISPR and mRNA are revolutionizing healthcare, agriculture, and ethics.
Web3 technologies are still evolving, offering decentralized ownership but facing challenges of scalability and trust.
Sustainability is becoming crucial with innovations in climate tech and governments aligning policies with incentives.
Technology decisions are shaping our future, emphasizing the importance of building systems with purpose and considering the implications.
It's not about what technology can do, but why, for whom, and at what cost it is developed.
Technologists are urged to remain curious, policymakers to stay informed, and citizens to ask questions to actively shape the future being co-created.
The coexistence of AI with humans raises governance challenges and the need to embed values in algorithms.
Ambient computing transforms environments into responsive ecosystems, balancing convenience with privacy considerations.
Biotech innovations like gene editing and AI-driven drug discovery have vast implications for healthcare, agriculture, and ethical considerations.
Web3 technologies aim to empower users with data ownership and decentralized control, with scalability and trust as critical factors for future success.
Sustainability innovations are essential for addressing climate challenges, with technology playing a crucial role in providing solutions and tools.
Technology advancements are influencing how we live and interact, emphasizing the importance of deliberate decision-making with ethical considerations.
The future is not solely determined by tech labs but is a collaborative effort involving all stakeholders in shaping the world we want to create.
It's a call to action for technologists, policymakers, and citizens to actively participate in shaping the future technological landscape.

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Dev

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The Never-Ending Update: A Developer's Guide to Staying Sharp in the Tech World

Staying sharp in the tech world is crucial for developers and tech enthusiasts to survive in the fast-paced industry.
Curate your information sources by subscribing to high-quality newsletters and blogs for condensed and relevant content.
Top newsletters include TLDR, Benedict's Newsletter, TechCrunch, and Stratechery.
Essential developer blogs to follow are from major companies like Netflix, Meta, and Google, as well as resources like freeCodeCamp, Martin Fowler's Blog, and A List Apart.
Listen to tech podcasts like The Vergecast, Accidental Tech Podcast, and Darknet Diaries to stay informed while on the go.
For developer-specific insights, podcasts like Software Engineering Daily, The Changelog, and Syntax.fm are recommended.
Engage with the tech community on platforms like Hacker News, Reddit, and Stack Overflow for discussions, news, and learning opportunities.
Follow key figures and tech journalists on Twitter for real-time updates and diverse perspectives.
Continuous learning is essential, utilizing online courses from platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy, working on side projects, and contributing to open source.
Networking with peers through conferences, meetups, and local developer groups is beneficial for learning and staying inspired.
Integrate sustainable practices like scanning newsletters and Hacker News daily, listening to tech podcasts during downtime, and dedicating time weekly to side projects or online courses.

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