Circle next to each topic?

[ks]

Sorry, for posting here, but as an occasional user, after a long time looking around the board, I could not figure out how to send a private message to a moderator and I could not find a FAQ on the topic.

What are the little circles next to each topic that have lines inside them and what does it mean when it looks like the lines inside certain circles are scrolling?

Again, apologies for taking up forum space with what is essentially an administrative question, but I've been wondering for a long time.

Thanks!

[Costi]

Easy, ks :

The circle with lines inside is like a magnifying glass over a piece of writing, so it signifies a topic. If the lines are scrolling, it means the topic is popular: check it out, you might be interested! If it's red-coloured, you haven't read it yet.

[ks]

Thanks Costi! That makes a lot sense, and a mystery solved!