I think you are spot-on with most if not all your observations. Especially articles most often featured.

I broadened my horizons yesterday in an experiment designed to gain followers to meet the minimum. I followed people in the same boat, and they followed me in return. Then I set my recommendeds to those I am following. Poof! A whole new set of recommendations from people struggling to get eyeballs on their work just like me.

I will make an effort to read their work.

Maybe we should all help each other in that way.