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NishMath - #abstraction

@Trebor //
Recent discussions in theoretical computer science and programming have touched upon diverse topics, ranging from type theory for SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) to the complexities encountered in programming. One thread explored the characteristics a type theory for SDG should possess, suggesting it should include a judgmentally commutative ring, possibly a Q-algebra, where neutral forms of type R are polynomials with other neutral forms as indeterminates. Participants believe such a system would have decidable typechecking.

A common sentiment shared among programmers, particularly those using languages with dependent types like Rust, is the initial hurdle of satisfying the compiler's requirements. Some have described the experience as an engaging puzzle that can involve spending considerable time to prove the validity of their code. The discussion also addressed the subjective nature of "complexity" in programming, suggesting it is a term often used to dismiss unfamiliar concepts rather than a concrete measure of inherent difficulty.

In related news, Microsoft’s Krysta Svore has announced geometric error-correcting codes as a potential advancement toward practical quantum computing. These codes utilize high-dimensional geometry to enhance performance, potentially leading to more efficient encoding and logical operations with fewer qubits. The approach builds on topological error correction, employing a mathematical method called Hermite normal form to reshape the grid, resulting in substantial reductions in qubit count and faster logical clock speeds. This geometric reshaping results in substantial reductions in qubit count. In one notable case, they achieved six logical qubits using just 96 physical qubits, which is a 16-to-1 ratio that would mark a significant improvement over standard two-dimensional codes.

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References :
  • Trebor: A type theory for SDG should contain a judgmentally commutative ring (or Q-algebra?), so the neutral forms of type R are polynomials whose indeterminates are other neutral forms. Seems to have decidable typechecking to me.
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@Martin Escardo //
A new approach to defining interval objects in category theory is being explored, focusing on the universal characterization of the Euclidean interval. This research, a collaboration between Martin Escardo and Alex Simpson, aims to establish a definition of interval objects applicable to general categories, capturing both geometrical and computational aspects. The goal is to find a definition that works across diverse categorical settings, allowing for a more abstract and unified understanding of intervals. This work builds upon their previous research, aiming for a broader mathematical foundation for interval objects.

The work by Escardo and Simpson delves into defining arithmetic operations within this abstract framework. Given an interval object [-1,1] in a category with finite products, they demonstrate how to define operations such as negation and multiplication using the universal property of the interval. Negation, denoted as -x, is defined as the unique automorphism that maps -1 to 1 and 1 to -1, ensuring that -(-x) = x. Similarly, multiplication x × (-) is defined as the unique automorphism mapping -1 to -x and 1 to x, resulting in commutative and associative multiplication.

This research has already produced significant results, including two joint papers: "A universal characterization of the closed Euclidean interval (extended abstract)" from LICS 2001 and "Abstract Datatypes for Real Numbers in Type Theory" from RTA/TLCA'2014. A third paper, focused more on the mathematical aspects, is currently in preparation. This work aims to provide a robust and universal characterization of interval objects, impacting both theoretical mathematics and practical applications in computer science and related fields.

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References :
  • www.johndcook.com: A paper about a notion of interval object in any category with finite products, on joint work with Alex Simpson.
  • Martin Escardo: The original post announcing A universal characterization of the closed Euclidean interval.
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