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Spatial Discretization for ZK Zone Checks

Published:Dec 30, 2025 13:58
1 min read
ArXiv

Analysis

This paper addresses the challenge of performing point-in-polygon (PiP) tests privately within zero-knowledge proofs, which is crucial for location-based services. The core contribution lies in exploring different zone encoding methods (Boolean grid-based and distance-aware) to optimize accuracy and proof cost within a STARK execution model. The research is significant because it provides practical solutions for privacy-preserving spatial checks, a growing need in various applications.
Reference

The distance-aware approach achieves higher accuracy on coarse grids (max. 60%p accuracy gain) with only a moderate verification overhead (approximately 1.4x), making zone encoding the key lever for efficient zero-knowledge spatial checks.

New Objective Improves Photometric Redshift Estimation

Published:Dec 27, 2025 11:47
1 min read
ArXiv

Analysis

This paper introduces Starkindler, a novel training objective for photometric redshift estimation that explicitly accounts for aleatoric uncertainty (observational errors). This is a significant contribution because existing methods often neglect these uncertainties, leading to less accurate and less reliable redshift estimates. The paper demonstrates improvements in accuracy, calibration, and outlier rate compared to existing methods, highlighting the importance of considering aleatoric uncertainty. The use of a simple CNN and SDSS data makes the approach accessible and the ablation study provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of the proposed objective.
Reference

Starkindler provides uncertainty estimates that are regularised by aleatoric uncertainty, and is designed to be more interpretable.

Technology#Facial Recognition📝 BlogAnalyzed: Dec 29, 2025 07:46

Facebook Abandons Facial Recognition: Should Others Follow?

Published:Nov 8, 2021 18:24
1 min read
Practical AI

Analysis

This article discusses Facebook's decision to shut down its facial recognition system and explores the broader implications of this technology. It features an interview with Luke Stark, who is critical of facial recognition, comparing it to plutonium and highlighting its potential for bias and racism. The discussion centers on Stark's research, particularly his paper "Physiognomic Artificial Intelligence," which critiques the use of facial features to make judgments about individuals. The article also touches upon the recent hires at the FTC and the significance of Facebook's announcement, suggesting it may not be as impactful as initially perceived.
Reference

Luke Stark critiques studies that will attempt to use faces and facial expressions and features to make determinations about people, a practice fundamental to facial recognition, also one that Luke believes is inherently racist at its core.