The article discusses innovative recruitment strategies by startups in India and the U.S. to address challenges in hiring. Abhijit Khasnis, the engineering director for Yahoo's India office, co-founded Hiree to tap into the pool of candidates serving notice periods. Hiree, along with other startups like Prehire, CodeEval, HackerRank, and Pymetrics, is offering creative solutions to improve the hiring process. GapJumpers promotes workplace diversity by conducting blind auditions, resulting in higher female employment in tech roles. HireVue Labs is developing machine learning programs to predict potential employees' future behaviors. However, there are concerns about the practicality and long-term feasibility of these methods, as well as the potential misuse of psychometric games in recruitment.

The pandemic has caused significant delays in wedding plans, including those for prison weddings. Jenny Smith, whose fiancé is incarcerated, faces challenges in rescheduling her wedding due to the high demand for wedding services post-pandemic. Wedding planners and officiants are experiencing a surge in bookings, with 2022 expected to see the most weddings since 1984. The Texas Department of Corrections had imposed a lockdown in March 2020, affecting many prison weddings, but as restrictions ease, the demand for prison weddings is rising again.

Silicon Valley investors are increasingly focusing on criminal justice reform, with many directing funds away from private prisons and towards social justice-oriented companies. The private prison industry, criticized for ethical issues and poor inmate care, is facing financial challenges as major banks and institutional investors divest. Activists and impact investors are pushing for systemic change, highlighting the economic and social costs of the current punitive system.

Aclima, an environmental sensor network startup, has deployed a fleet of sensor-equipped cars in Santa Clara County to map air quality on a block-by-block basis. This initiative aims to provide granular air quality data to help authorities address pollution at a micro-level. The project, in partnership with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, is expected to cover 5,000 square miles and take one year. The data collected will aid in making informed decisions to improve air quality and public health, particularly in pollution hotspots. The World Health Organization has identified air pollution as a major global health issue, and Aclima's technology could set a precedent for regional air quality mapping worldwide.

Greyhound has a history of poor customer service, particularly in handling cancellations and overbookings. Passengers often face significant delays, lack of refunds, and inadequate support. The article highlights several cases where customers were left stranded or had to incur additional expenses due to Greyhound's policies. Despite having contact options like a help Twitter account and customer service numbers, many customers report unresolved issues. The company's financial performance has also been affected, with a decline in operating profit and earnings. Competitors like Megabus are gaining traction as a result.

SWORD Health, a Portugal-based startup, has developed an AI-driven physical therapy solution that uses wireless motion trackers to guide patients through exercises, providing real-time feedback. Studies have shown that patients using SWORD's program recover faster and maintain their results longer compared to traditional therapy. The company's CEO, Virgílio Bento, founded SWORD Health to democratize access to effective physical therapy after his brother's accident. Despite potential copay costs and insurance session caps, this technology offers a promising solution for those with limited access to quality physical therapy.

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Fold, a two-in-one phone and tablet, aiming to outshine Apple's iPhone XS Max. The Galaxy Fold features a new hinge system to prevent bending, offers more color options, includes six cameras, and boasts app continuity for seamless screen transitions. However, its high price of $1960 may be a deterrent compared to Apple's devices. Samsung acknowledges the cost but positions the Fold as a luxury device, with more affordable options available in their other releases.

Hong Kong is implementing a high-tech trial project in four correctional facilities, introducing AI video surveillance, fitness trackers, and robotic arms to address issues such as overcrowding, violence, and drug use. The initiative aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities and improve inmate health monitoring. Concerns about privacy and data usage are acknowledged, but the technology is expected to offer more protection than harm within the prison environment.

With Thanksgiving approaching, the Oculus Go offers a portable virtual reality solution to ease family tensions. The article recommends several VR games suitable for different age groups and interests, including Catan VR, Anshar Online, Wands VR, Pet Lab, YouTube VR, Dead and Buried, and Wonderglade. These games range from paid to free options, providing entertainment and immersive experiences for the whole family.

Zara Stone reflects on her year-long experience with Arivale's scientific wellness program, which combines blood markers, saliva, DNA, and microbiome analysis with lifestyle coaching. Despite some challenges, such as dietary changes due to dental procedures, she reports improved health, including consistent Omega-3 levels, better sleep, and clearer skin. Stone acknowledges the luxury of personalized health guidance and the importance of investing in health early. She also discusses the broader implications of personalized medicine and the philosophical considerations of genomic research as outlined by experts in the AMA Journal of Ethics.

The article covers the Our Music Festival (OMF), touted as the world's first cryptocurrency music festival, held at The Greek Theater in Berkeley. Organized by Prime Social Group, DJ 3LAU, and SingularDTV, the event attracted around 8,000 attendees and featured performances by Zedd, Mati and Kim, and 3LAU. The festival integrated blockchain technology, allowing attendees to purchase tickets with cryptocurrency and earn OMF tokens for various upgrades and merchandise. Despite some logistical challenges, the event was deemed a success, highlighting the potential of blockchain in revolutionizing event management and ticketing. The article also touches on the broader implications of blockchain technology for transparency and equity, particularly among millennials.

After ten months on the Arivale DNA diet plan, the author reflects on the integration of genetic insights with lifestyle coaching. Despite some skepticism about the DNA component, the program has led to noticeable improvements in health and wellness, including better sleep and reduced stress. The author also emphasizes the importance of self-care and the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet while traveling.

Dr. Julia Mossbridge, a cognitive neuroscientist, embarked on a project called Loving AI to program unconditional love into artificial intelligence, using Sophia, the world's most famous android provided by Hanson Robotics. The project, competing for the IBM Watson Xprize, aims to create a non-transactional, loving interaction between humans and AI. Rana el Kaliouby, CEO of Affectiva, also contributes to the field with her work on emotional AI. The article details the author's personal experience interacting with Sophia, highlighting the robot's ability to engage in conversation, mirror expressions, and provide a sense of being heard. Despite some awkwardness and limitations, the interaction suggests a shift in human-machine interfaces towards more emotionally intelligent and conversational AI.

The article explores the rise of plant-based burgers and alternative proteins, driven by investments from Silicon Valley venture capitalists, meat moguls, and notable figures like Bill Gates. Companies like Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods, and Good Catch Foods are leading the charge with innovative products that aim to replicate the taste and texture of traditional meat while offering environmental and health benefits. The market for plant-based foods is growing rapidly, with significant investments and increasing consumer demand. The article highlights various companies and their hero products, emphasizing the potential for these alternatives to transform the food industry and address global challenges such as greenhouse gas emissions and overfishing.

The Nabi virtual reality viewer, created by South Korean company Mocomtech, is a compact and innovative device designed for on-the-go consumption of 360 videos. Packaged in a case the size of an EarPods charger, it unfolds into mini spectacles that attach to a phone, providing a quick and hygienic way to view VR content. While it lacks the advanced features of devices like the Oculus Rift or HTC Vive, it excels in portability and ease of use. The product has received positive feedback for its solid construction and practicality, selling out quickly at events.

Women-led initiatives such as Girl Develop It are addressing the gender gap in prison coding programs, providing valuable skills to female inmates to reduce recidivism and improve future employment prospects. Despite historical disparities in educational opportunities, organizations like The Last Mile, Code 4000, and Code/Out are expanding their programs to include women, with positive outcomes for participants. Success stories from program graduates and new funding for expanded courses signal a shift towards more inclusive tech education in prisons.

In 1916, during New York's streetcar strike, the Autoped scooter became a popular alternative mode of transportation, reaching speeds of 25 mph and later being fitted with an electric battery. Despite its decline by 1965, scooters have resurged in popularity, with companies like Bird and Lime achieving unicorn status and significant investments, indicating a renewed interest in two-wheeled transport solutions.

Over the past seven months, the author has experienced significant lifestyle, diet, and fitness changes as part of a DNA diet plan. Key health improvements include better LDL and HDL cholesterol levels, reduced insulin and hemoglobin A1c, and increased Omega-3 levels. The author also explored microbiome health, though the results were not highly actionable. A two-week no-sugar diet challenge proved difficult, highlighting the pervasive presence of sugar in everyday foods. Despite not fully succeeding, the author gained valuable insights into sugar content and healthier eating habits.

Salt & Straw, a Portland-based ice cream company, has successfully expanded into San Francisco, capturing the attention of the local foodie community with unique, locally-inspired flavors. Co-founder Tyler Malek emphasizes the importance of connecting with local farmers and merchants to create distinct flavors for each store. Despite the competitive market, Salt & Straw's commitment to quality and community has made it a popular destination. The company plans further expansion in the Bay Area, continuing to innovate with flavors like Sightglass coffee cashew praline and Mt Tam cheese with toasted Acme bread.

San Francisco's Pride parade featured a strong presence from tech companies, with floats and participants from Netflix, Square, Apple, Kaiser Permanente, Google, Salesforce, Amazon, Weebly, Uber, Facebook, and Intel. The event was marked by a display of unity and celebration of equality and wellness, amidst the city's social unrest and economic divisions.

The article discusses the innovative use of virtual reality (VR) in the construction and design of modern jails, highlighting its role in improving efficiency and reducing costs. It features the El Centro jail expansion project, where VR was used to identify design flaws early. The article also covers the broader context of jail construction in California, driven by a Supreme Court ruling to reduce prison populations. VR is also being used for inmate rehabilitation and training, with various programs aimed at reducing recidivism. The piece underscores the potential of VR to bring long-term positive changes to the correctional system.

Nick Loui, CEO of CivicFeed, and Dr. Nathan Walworth discussed the ethics of artificial intelligence at a panel, emphasizing the responsibility of engineers to code without bias. CivicFeed, founded by Loui, uses AI to make government actions transparent. Various think tanks and groups, including Harvard's AI Initiative and the Partnership on AI, are addressing AI ethics. Concerns about AI bias in data and its applications, such as predictive sentencing and racial bias, were raised. Startups like Accel A.I. aim to democratize AI education, while projects like Microsoft's AI for Earth leverage AI for environmental understanding. The article highlights the importance of ethical AI and the need for a conscious approach to counteract inherent biases in algorithms.

At the six-month mark of a yearlong DNA diet experiment with Arivale, the author reflects on progress and challenges, including increased water intake and a two-week dairy-free trial. Despite no significant changes from the dairy-free diet, the author remains committed to lifestyle changes, focusing next on reducing sugar intake. The article also discusses the use of the Revvo bike for fitness testing and the mixed results from Ori3gn's genetic fitness analysis. Overall, the author values the comprehensive approach to health and fitness, integrating various data points and expert advice.

Lightning In A Bottle (LIB) is a four-day festival combining music, tech talks, and holistic programming, set against Lake Bradley in California. Unlike Burning Man, LIB offers a less intense experience with a focus on inclusivity and personal growth. The festival features diverse activities, including discussions on artificial intelligence, yoga, and the benefits of psychedelics. Notable experiences include blacksmithing workshops, hula hooping as a meditative practice, and conscious eating sessions. The event aims to provide meaningful, actionable insights for attendees to take back to their daily lives, distinguishing itself from other music festivals.

Tara-Nicholle Nelson's startup, SoulTour, aims to address Silicon Valley's religious apathy by offering a religion-agnostic platform for spiritual self-care. With a background in psychology, law, and marketing, Nelson is well-positioned to create a 'Netflix of spirituality' that appeals to millennials who seek spiritual fulfillment outside traditional religious institutions. Supported by Lightspeed Venture Partners, SoulTour plans to offer meditation guides, self-help mantras, and video stories through a subscription model. The article highlights the growing trend of people identifying as spiritual but not religious, and the potential for new spiritual leaders in a tech-driven world.

The laptop backpack market is projected to reach $2 billion in annual revenue by 2021, with a CAGR of 3.91% from 2017 to 2021 according to Technavio, while IBISWorld forecasts a slower growth rate. The demand for laptop bags with RFID and airport-friendly features is increasing, and the integration of technology such as charging ports is expected to grow. The article reviews several laptop backpacks for women, highlighting their style, functionality, and suitability for carrying laptops and other essentials. Brands like Herschel Supply Co., Knomo London, Everlane, and Heshe are mentioned, with positive reviews for their products.

Zara Stone shares her fifth-month experience with Arivale, a DNA wellness startup that combines genetic analysis with personal coaching. Despite initial progress, Stone realizes she needs to make more significant changes to her diet and exercise routine. She commits to a healthier diet with the help of Hungryroot meal delivery and aims to improve her water intake using a Cirkul water bottle. Stone also focuses on tracking her health metrics, undergoing a BodySpec scan, and using apps like Fitlist and MyFitnessPal. She sets personal fitness goals, including doing the splits in three months, and is held accountable by her coach. Stone is also exploring gut health and is interested in SunGenomics' precision probiotics.

The Silicon Valley Comic Con has grown significantly since its inception in 2016, with attendance increasing from 60,000 to an estimated 100,000 by its third year. The event featured a variety of vendors and the presence of Stan Lee, a revered figure in geek culture. The article showcases some of the best cosplay costumes from the event.

Israel is positioning itself as a major player in the global cannabis industry, driven by its innovative medical cannabis research and potential export market. Despite regulatory hurdles, the Israeli cannabis sector is poised for significant growth, with the potential to boost the economy by billions. Key stakeholders, including investors and medical professionals, emphasize the importance of export approval to sustain the industry. The Israeli government's supportive stance on cannabis research and cultivation has fostered a thriving environment for startups and medical advancements, making Israel a leader in the field.

Technological advances in humanoid robots are accelerating, with various models designed for different purposes such as acting, reception, TV presenting, and even football. Notable robots include the Actroid, Arisa, Kodomoroid, Mirai Madoka, Jia Jia, Sophia, Nina, Arya, the Robot Baby, and Saya. These robots are being developed by companies and institutions like THK, Aruze Gaming, Hanson Robotics, Hefei University, and Bordeaux University, and are expected to become more integrated into daily life over the next decade.

Martin Talvari, founder of Myriad and Myriad Air, is organizing a unique conference in Brisbane, Australia, aimed at connecting Silicon Valley venture capitalists with Australian entrepreneurs. The event, supported by the Queensland Government's $513 million Advance Queensland initiative, features a 16-hour chartered flight filled with top tech talent. Despite challenges like a cyclone during its inaugural year, the conference aims to foster collaboration and investment in Australia's growing startup ecosystem. The 2018 event will include diverse speakers and attendees, with a focus on inclusivity and innovation.

Knockout League, developed by Vive Studios and Grab Games, is a VR boxing game that combines fitness and fun. The game features arcade-style gameplay with various opponents and a calorie counter. It has been praised for its intuitive UI, engaging music, and immersive experience. The game is available on multiple VR platforms, including Oculus, Steam, Viveport, and PSVR. Future updates may include new characters and downloadable content. The article also mentions Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s upcoming VR boxing game, which aims for a more realistic experience.

San Francisco's startup culture is humorously encapsulated in a new escape room themed around escaping a startup. The room, designed by Gregory Koberger, founder of ReadMe.io, features elements like GitHub hoodies, Philz coffee cups, and startup-centric books, creating an immersive experience that mirrors the daily life of Silicon Valley professionals. The escape room industry continues to thrive, with over 7200 rooms globally, reflecting a communal love for gaming and interactive activities. The article highlights the room's unique appeal to both insiders and outsiders of the startup world, blending satire with genuine engagement.

Black Box VR is introducing a new virtual reality fitness experience to the mass market in San Francisco, combining immersive VR technology with real gym settings to target specific muscles through weight and resistance exercises. Co-founded by Ryan DeLuca and Preston Lewis, the startup aims to revolutionize workouts with its patent-pending dynamic resistance machine. The first gym is set to open this year, following a successful demo at CES 2018 where it won the 'Best Startup Award'. The technology promises a full-body workout with science-backed routines, potentially changing perceptions of VR fitness.

Israel, often referred to as the tech hub of the Middle East, continues to attract significant venture capital investment, particularly in cybersecurity. Tel Aviv is now offering tech tours similar to those in Silicon Valley, with the Carlton Tel Aviv providing a premium package that includes accommodations, an escape room, and a walking tour of startup land. The tech tourism industry in Israel is expected to grow with increasing tourism and more direct flights. Other immersive tech tours are available through Taglit-Birthright Israel, offering hands-on experiences with VR headsets and drones.

The author provides an update on her progress with the Arivale Scientific Wellness program, focusing on DNA and health data to improve her overall wellness. She discusses the challenges and benefits of having a personal wellness coach, the insights gained from blood work and genetic profiling, and the adjustments made to her diet and exercise routine. Despite not seeing significant weight loss, she notes improvements in her hydration habits and a better understanding of her health metrics. The article highlights the importance of personalized health data and the support of a wellness coach in achieving long-term health goals.

Drones are increasingly prevalent in pop culture, with their portrayals influencing public perception. Fictional representations in games, TV shows, and movies often exaggerate drone capabilities, but real-world technology is catching up in areas like hacking and surveillance. While some scenarios remain far-fetched, advancements in drone tech raise valid concerns about privacy and security. The article examines the gap between fiction and reality, highlighting the psychological impact of drone operations on pilots and the ethical dilemmas of drone strikes.

Serious Sam VR, developed by Croteam, is highlighted as an excellent reason to invest in a VR headset, especially for Christmas. The article emphasizes the ease of setting up mixed reality videos using the game's built-in wizard, which simplifies the process compared to other VR setups. The author shares personal experiences and praises the immersive and enjoyable nature of the game, noting its appeal even in limited VR spaces. The article also mentions various titles released by Croteam in 2017, each offering different gameplay experiences.

Grams, a search engine for the dark web launched in 2014, has announced its closure due to financial and personal difficulties faced by its admin. Known for indexing dark web marketplaces and providing tools like Infodesk and Helix, Grams was a significant player in democratizing access to the darknet. Despite its popularity, competition and high transaction fees have made it unsustainable. The admin has assured users that remaining funds will be donated to worthy causes.

The Australian wine brand 19 Crimes has developed an augmented reality app that animates the labels on their wine bottles, which feature images of former convicts. The app tells the stories of British prisoners sent to Australia in the 18th century, engaging consumers with a mix of history and technology. The brand has seen significant growth, shipping over one million cases and increasing sales by 60% in volume and 70% in value. The app has been well-received, with users appreciating the innovative way it brings history to life.

UVify's Draco HD drone, capable of reaching speeds up to 100 mph, is designed to lower the entry barrier for beginner drone racers with its ready-built, modular design. The sport of drone racing has gained popularity, with significant investments and prizes in the industry. UVify's CEO Hyon Lim emphasizes customer convenience, drawing inspiration from Tesla. The Draco HD offers high-quality HD video transmission and is designed for easy repairs and upgrades. Despite some documentation and software issues, the drone is praised for its potential in racing and user-friendly features. UVify also supports a racing team and develops drones for research purposes.

The article explores the potential benefits of Arivale, a Seattle-based scientific wellness startup, through the author's personal experience. Arivale combines genetic data, nutrition coaching, and machine learning to offer personalized health and wellness plans. The author details the comprehensive process, including blood tests, genetic analysis, and regular coaching sessions, and discusses the potential for long-term health improvements. The article highlights the growing field of personalized medicine and its potential impact on healthcare costs and individual health outcomes.

Dinorah Hernandez, a Barcelona-based producer, has been pioneering VR cosplay porn through her franchise VRCosplayX, launched in 2017. She emphasizes authenticity by ensuring actresses are familiar with the video game characters they portray. Hernandez's work includes parodies of popular games like Overwatch, which has seen significant search interest on Pornhub. Despite Blizzard's disapproval, Hernandez plans to release more Overwatch scenes. VR porn is gaining popularity, with significant search growth in the US and Canada. Hernandez's dedication to detail and passion for gaming culture is evident in her productions, aiming to celebrate rather than mock geek subcultures.

Coca-Cola has been at the forefront of 'dronevertising', using drones to create spectacular aerial displays for marketing campaigns, such as the iconic Coke bottle formation in the sky during their 2016 'Caravana' tour in Monterrey, Mexico. Other brands like Uber and Pepsi have also experimented with drone advertising, but with mixed reactions. Intel is a key player in the drone display market, having supported various campaigns including Lady Gaga's Super Bowl performance. Regulatory challenges exist, such as the need for FAA waivers to fly drones at night in the U.S. Coca-Cola's campaigns have also included social good elements, like delivering Coca-Cola cans to migrant workers in Singapore. The potential for the sky to become a commercial canvas is acknowledged, with differing opinions on its desirability.

Ophelia Chong, a Los Angeles-based photography professor, created StockPot Images to challenge the stereotypical portrayal of marijuana users in the media. Her stock photography agency offers a diverse range of images that depict cannabis users in everyday, non-sexualized settings. Heather Hoffman, CEO of Pura Vida, and organizations like the Drug Policy Alliance, support the need for more representative images of cannabis users. Chong's mission with StockPot Images is to change public perception and provide authentic content for healthcare companies and businesses, paying photographers 50 percent higher rates than Getty to support this cause.

An all-female variety show at San Francisco's Beatbox club featured performers over 40, challenging ageism in the performing arts. The show, produced by Revolva, aimed to demonstrate that talent does not expire with age. Performers included belly dancer Leela, who emphasized that performance is an extension of the soul, and 72-year-old Sandy Eggers, who continues to dance with the Golden Follies. The event highlighted the talent and energy of older women, countering societal norms that often render them invisible.

The article discusses the prevalence of cosmetic surgery among Korean Americans, with a focus on the experiences of 17-year-old Hailey Kim, who has undergone multiple procedures and plans for more. It highlights the cultural pressures and beauty standards influenced by K-pop and Korean society, where a significant number of women undergo cosmetic surgeries. The article also touches on the medical tourism industry in South Korea, the historical context of cosmetic surgery in the region, and the perspectives of various professionals, including Dr. David A. Koslovsky and Dr. John Kang. It explores the complex interplay between cultural identity, beauty standards, and the cosmetic surgery industry, while also mentioning the potential risks and the normalization of such procedures in Korean society.