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The metaverse can lead to better science

The metaverse has the potential to make scientists more effective by removing barriers, improving teaching and learning, and enabling new experimental environments. Researchers must also plan well and avoid potential pitfalls, such as ownership and privacy issues.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 25, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Virtual fitting rooms can be a double-edged sword

A recent study by Iowa State University researchers found that virtual fitting rooms can have a negative impact on consumers with a high body mass index (BMI), leading to decreased self-esteem and lower product evaluations. However, the technology appears to enhance sales for shoppers with a low BMI, highlighting the need for marketing...

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology and MIT researchers develop a natural and comfortable “seamless-walk” virtual reality locomotion system

A new VR locomotion system, Seamless-walk, offers a natural and comfortable experience without equipment or body pose recording. It uses high-resolution foot pressure imprints and machine learning to estimate the user's direction and movement speed.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalVirtual Reality·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Using virtual reality to investigate autism’s neural network dynamics

Researchers developed a VR imaging system to measure neural activity in mouse brains during behavior, revealing abnormalities in cortical functional network dynamics associated with autism. The system successfully distinguished between autism model mice and wild-type mice based on their brain network patterns.

SourceKobe University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2023

Embryos’ development is delayed in pregnancies that end in miscarriage

Researchers have found that embryos in pregnancies ending in miscarriage take four days longer to develop in the womb than those in live births. This delay is associated with a higher likelihood of miscarriage and may be used to estimate pregnancy outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Virtual reality games can be used as a tool in personnel assessment

A study by University of Cologne researchers found that virtual reality gamers completed tasks faster with higher levels of general intelligence and processing capacity. The results suggest VR games can be used as a tool for predicting job performance, bridging the gap between research and practice.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalVirtual Reality·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023

Chung-Ang University researchers fabricate novel flexible supercapacitors on paper

Chung-Ang University researchers develop a novel flexible supercapacitor platform with vertically integrated gold electrodes in a single sheet of paper. The design shows low electrical resistance, high foldability, and good mechanical strength, making it suitable for wearable devices.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

The Future of Touch

A new study reveals that holographic haptic displays create diffuse and faint tactile sensations due to widespread vibration patterns in the skin. The researchers discovered a phenomenon known as constructive interference that amplifies shock waves, leading to reduced spatial precision and clarity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 1, 2023

Hands-free tech adds realistic sense of touch in extended reality

A new 'multisensory pseudo-haptic' technology delivers believable tactile experiences in virtual environments by combining visual feedback from a VR headset with tactile sensations from a mechanical wristbracelet. This innovation keeps hands free, enabling long-term wear and more realistic user experiences.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

How can the metaverse improve public health?

The metaverse can be used to investigate the effectiveness of large-scale interventions before implementation, saving time and money. It also provides a platform for people with limited access to natural environments to experience green spaces, reducing negative mental health effects.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateFeb 21, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Engineers invent vertical, full-color microscopic LEDs

The team developed a way to stack red, green, and blue light-emitting diodes to create vertical, multicolored pixels, enabling higher-resolution displays. This technique could enable fully immersive virtual reality experiences and improve digital screens' sharpness and resolution.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Virtual reality for immersive multi-user firefighter-training scenarios

The study developed a VR application for immersive multi-user firefighter-training scenarios, addressing disaster management tasks with minimal risk. The prototype integrated VR motion capture and synchronization of sensor data to create realistic training environments.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateJan 4, 2023

Lost fish find their way, thanks to their ‘ancient brain’

Scientists discovered a new multiregional hindbrain circuit that enables zebrafish to compute their location and correct course. The study used whole-brain imaging to reveal the circuits involved in this process, which may apply to other vertebrates.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 22, 2022

Virtual reality game to objectively detect ADHD

A virtual reality game called EPELI has been developed to assess ADHD symptoms in children by simulating everyday situations. The game uses eye tracking and machine learning to detect differences in eye movements, which can indicate attention deficits.

SourceAalto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2022

CityU researchers develop wireless, ultrathin 'Skin VR' to provide a vivid, 'personalized' touch experience in the virtual world

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed an advanced wireless haptic interface system called WeTac. The system provides a vivid touch experience with personalized tactile sensation data and overcomes the shortcomings of existing bulky gloves.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Does throwing my voice make you want to shop here?

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba discovered a phenomenon where moving a virtual assistant's voice closer to users increases customer rapport, contrasting with traditional ventriloquism effects. This 'mouth-in-the-door' effect can be used to enhance user experience in virtual commerce scenarios.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalIEEE Access·DateDec 12, 2022

Are we there yet? Time slows down on a crowded train

Research finds that crowding on public transit makes time seem to pass more slowly, with rushed commutes feeling significantly longer. The study used virtual reality simulations of subway rides and found that crowded trips took around 10% longer than less crowded ones.

SourceCornell University·JournalVirtual Reality·DateNov 30, 2022

Single-cell-driven tri-channel encryption meta-displays

A POSTECH research team developed single-cell-driven tri-channel encryption meta-displays, which project different images depending on where you look at them. These displays overcome the limitations of conventional metasurfaces by combining amplitude modulation and geometric phase manipulation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateNov 24, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Mass transfer techniques for large-scale and high-density microLED arrays

Researchers have summarized the latest developments in mass transfer techniques for large-scale and high-density microLED arrays. The techniques address key challenges such as interfacial adhesion mechanisms and process parameters to achieve high reliability and efficiency.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 14, 2022

Deep inside molecules—digital twins at the nanoscale

The study presents UnityMol as a successful software tool for VR porting, enabling enhanced digital twin models. Interactive simulations also have great potential for research and collaborative problem-solving.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateNov 6, 2022

New VR system lets you share sights on the move without causing VR sickness

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University developed a VR system that enables users to share their visual and sensory experiences on Segways with remote collaborators. The system reduced VR sickness by 54% and improved user experience, promising new possibilities for remote collaboration.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalAdvanced Robotics·DateNov 5, 2022

NJIT experts in augmented reality help train caretakers for the elderly

NJIT Assistant Professor Salam Daher is using augmented reality technology to train caretakers for the elderly. The project aims to improve communication and empathy skills through a digital model of an older person that responds to emotions and environment. The system will be tested to investigate its impact on patient outcomes.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateNov 4, 2022

One of the crowd or one of a kind? New artificial intelligence research indicates we're a bit of both

A new study published in iScience found that humans tend to follow a two-step process when in a crowd, with an initial reflexive imitation followed by a more deliberate strategic decision. The research suggests this influence affects not only social norms but also immediate actions and underlies behaviors such as rioting and mass panic.

SourceAston University·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 24, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Research co-led by CityU develops a high-resolution, wearable electrotactile rendering device that virtualizes the sense of touch

A team co-led by CityU developed a wearable electrotactile rendering system that can mimic the sensation of touch with high spatial resolution and a rapid response rate. The device has various application potential, including enhancing VR/AR experiences and facilitating work in thick gloves.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Patients experiencing virtual reality immersion during hand surgery required less anesthetic to keep pain at bay, indicating the potential of this non- pharmacologic distraction technique

Patients undergoing virtual reality immersion during hand surgery required significantly less anesthetic to manage pain, suggesting its potential as a non-pharmacologic distraction method. The study compared VR immersion to monitored anesthesia care and found no significant differences in post-operative pain or anxiety levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 21, 2022

Who do you think you are? What does your avatar say about you?

A Trinity College Dublin study explores the intersection of identity, technology, and social dynamics in social virtual reality. Researchers found that avatars can represent intersecting characteristics, influencing users' social interactions and belonging to certain groups.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of Digital Social Research·DateSep 21, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Can eyes on self-driving cars reduce accidents?

A new study at the University of Tokyo suggests that robotic eyes on autonomous vehicles can help pedestrians anticipate a vehicle's intentions, leading to safer crossings. The experiment found that participants made more cautious decisions when faced with moving eyes, with some males even reporting feeling safer.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2022

An audiovisual journey with the MEMEX travelling exhibition

The MEMEX project promotes social cohesion by using AI and interactive tools to share community stories linked to cultural heritage. The exhibition features audio-visual stories from Lisbon, Barcelona, Paris, and Genoa participants who co-created their own digital content.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·DateSep 15, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

A switch telling the brain when to learn and when to remember

Researchers discovered an electric signal in the hippocampus triggered by novelty, inducing a transition from memory to learning states. The signal may work as a switch to enable the brain to balance forming new memories and recalling familiar ones.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Optical rule was made to be broken

Engineers at Rice University have discovered a way to manipulate light at the nanoscale that surpasses the traditional Moss rule for optical materials. The researchers found that iron pyrite has a high refractive index, making it suitable for applications such as virtual reality and 3D displays.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022

New mining professor wins SME career boost grant

Associate Professor Angelina Anani has won a $300,000 career development grant from the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration to support her research on mine planning and operations. She plans to use virtual and augmented reality technologies to optimize industry decisions and minimize risks.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateAug 11, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Perception depends on whether you are looking up or down

A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that the human visual system flexibly modulates observers' perception according to their posture. The research used the Necker cube as a visual stimulus and found a significant difference in probability of perception depending on the viewing posture, with a bias towards looking up.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2022

Zapping our tastebuds can help reduce our salt intake

A Japanese research team has developed a chopstick-shaped device that uses weak electrical charges to stimulate the tongue's saltiness. The study found that individuals following a low-sodium diet can reduce their salt intake by 30% through electric taste stimulation, enhancing the full flavor of salty foods.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Virtual Reality·DateJul 5, 2022

Virtual reality technology could strengthen effects of traditional rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis

Researchers from Kessler Foundation found that virtual reality (VR) technology can strengthen the effects of traditional cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training in individuals with MS. By increasing sensory input and promoting multisensory integration, VR may increase the effectiveness of these therapies.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroSci·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 30, 2022

Supernumerary virtual robotic arms can feel like part of our body

A study from Japan's University of Tokyo reveals that users can form a strong sense of ownership with virtual robotic arms, expanding their perceived personal space. The research aims to inform the design of real-life supernumerary robotic limb systems that people can use naturally.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Third and fourth robotic arms feel like a part of the user’s own body

A research team has developed supernumerary robotic arms that users can feel as part of their own body, expanding the possibilities for human augmentation. The study, published in Scientific Reports, shows that users can embody artificial objects and perceive them as extensions of their own body.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2022

Colorful urban environments, even if just in virtual reality, promote wellbeing

A new study published in Frontiers found that virtual reality environments with green vegetation and colorful patterns increase heart rate and promote a pleasurable experience. Conversely, colorful patterns alone stimulate interest and fascination without the same restorative effect as nature.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Virtual Reality·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2022

Training virtually can reduce psychosocial stress and anxiety

Researchers from Tohoku University found that virtual training can decrease psychosocial stress response and lower anxiety levels, comparable to real exercise. The study used immersive virtual reality to simulate physical activity, inducing physiological changes and cognitive benefits in young healthy subjects.

SourceTohoku University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 17, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.