tech, startups, internet

How TikTok reads your mind.

The New York Times explains, based on an internal document. “The document, headed “TikTok Algo 101,” was produced by TikTok’s engineering team in Beijing. A company spokeswoman, Hilary McQuaide, confirmed its authenticity, and said it was written to explain to […]

fun facts

Why retaining walls collapse.

“When you see a retaining wall in the wild, the job of holding back soil looks effortless. But that’s usually only true because much of the wall’s structure is hidden from view. A retaining wall is essentially a dam, except […]

big ideas

Ten million deaths a year from air pollution.

This article shines a spotlight on the problem. A ray of hope is that unlike decarbonization, “for one thing, it’s actually under the control of local and national governments. It’s also a significant burden on public health, which if alleviated […]

under the microscope

Lifespan on a small Greek island.

The island of Ikaria is a Blue Zone where people regularly live to 100. “But not all Ikariots enjoy the same degree of longevity. Data from the ongoing study shows that people living in the northern part of the island […]