Low Zika risk for travelers to Olympics in Brazil, study finds
Researchers at Yale University found that only a small percentage of Olympic athletes, spectators, and visitors will bring the Zika virus back to their home countries.
Games
Articles tagged with Games
Australian physicists revisit spin-bowling puzzle
Researchers studied the effects of different spin types on cricket ball trajectory. They found that adding top-spin to a delivery can reduce pitch length by up to 25cm, while introducing side-spin can produce significant drift. The study aims to help newcomers master spin-bowling and potentially benefit tennis players.
Football concussion update: Player-on-player hits cause more serious head impacts
A new study published in Pediatrics analyzed nearly 7,000 head impacts during a high school football team's season and post-season, finding that player-vs.-player hits resulted in the most severe impacts. The study's findings support recent guidelines encouraging players to avoid leading with their heads when hitting another player.
How Tom Brady won fans by dodging 'Deflategate' questions
A new study found that people felt more goodwill from Tom Brady when he started his answers with 'I don't know', which made him dodge questions less. The research suggests that sports stars may win by saying 'I don't know' to gain favor with the public.
Thinking 'I can do better' really can improve performance, study finds
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that using self-talk and imagery techniques can improve performance in competitive tasks. Participants who used these motivational methods outperformed the control group in various aspects of the task.
Dividing the spoils of cooperation
A new study by UC Santa Barbara psychologists found that men prioritize traits associated with productivity and material benefit in nonfamily members, rather than solely generosity and trustworthiness. In contrast, women place more emphasis on reciprocity and demand more from attractive partners.
The rules of the game for children with ADHD
Researchers studied children with ADHD playing a game with changing rules, finding they struggled to adjust their behavior. Typically developing children adapted quickly, while those with ADHD showed only slight changes.
Women find men more masculine when wearing deodorant
Research found that women rate male body odor femininity decreases with application of deodorant. Men who were initially perceived low in masculinity significantly increased their odour masculinity after applying a deodorant.
How your brain learns to ride the subway -- and why AI developers care
A team of researchers from Google DeepMind and the University of Oxford used a navigational game to decode human brain's decision-making processes. They found that brain activity increases with the number of line changes between participants and their destinations, rather than individual stations.
Pitchers risk greater injury if MLB cuts time between pitches, researchers warn
Researchers found that a 20-second pitch clock limit would cause seven percent more arm fatigue in pitchers. This increase in fatigue can strain the ulnar collateral ligament, leading to greater risk of injury, including Tommy John surgery.
Digital media may be changing how you think
A new study published in ACM CHI '16 found that processing information on digital versus non-digital platforms affects construal levels, with digital platforms leading to more concrete thinking. Participants scored higher on concrete questions and lower on abstract questions when reading on digital platforms.
Design tool enables novices to create bendable input devices for computers
Researchers developed a software tool called DefSense that enables non-experts to create deformable objects with deformation-sensing functionality. The tool optimizes sensor layouts based on user-defined deformations, allowing for customized input devices.
A theory explains why gaming on touchscreens is clumsy
Researchers at Aalto University propose a new theory explaining why touchscreens are less accurate for gaming due to finger movement and latency. By registering touch events at maximum contact area, performance can be improved significantly.
Emotion detector
A computer algorithm can recognize human emotions with high accuracy, transferring players' emotions to avatars or communicating with other players. The emotion detector system uses mathematical processing to analyze eyebrow position, eye openness, and mouth shape to correlate with basic human emotions.
In gaming, player behavior reflects roles -- even when no roles are given
A new study from North Carolina State University finds that players' behavior in narrative role-playing games (RPGs) consistently reflects specific character roles, regardless of whether the role is assigned or chosen. The researchers also found that players without explicit role information still tend to exhibit role-based behavior.
Our employment status affects our morals around money
A quantitative study by the University of the Basque Country found that becoming unemployed alters people's moral values regarding fairness and redistribution. Most unemployed individuals tend to redistribute money equally among their group, regardless of whether it was earned or received through luck.
Top soccer players are under-performing because of gambling, research says
Research by Graeme Law found that gambling impairs soccer players' performances on the pitch, with worries causing them to struggle with boredom and team resentment. Players turned to online betting sites to conceal their habit from partners, highlighting the need for greater awareness of potential problems.
Mobility and motivation: Job switching stokes competitive behavior
A study by LMU researchers found that employees who switch jobs to a competitor often intensify their competitive behavior against their former employer. However, this phenomenon may be linked to identity conflict rather than performance concerns. The study suggests that poaching individual talent from competitors can have mixed results.
Management efforts for elk and deer may not benefit all wildlife
A new study from Colorado State University found that improving habitats for game animals has mixed consequences for other wildlife in the same setting. The research calls for a more holistic approach to current management efforts.
Can videogames improve health outcomes in children?
A white paper published in Games for Health Journal emphasizes the potential of videogames to prevent and treat obesity, reduce stress, and promote physical activity among children. The authors propose guidelines for game development and use to ensure safe and effective access to G4H.
Voters prefer to be represented by extortioners
In a climate game experiment, researchers found that 40% of participants chose representatives with extortionate strategies. However, these strategies ultimately led to successful outcomes due to the benefit for all parties involved. The results suggest that such strategies could be beneficial in avoiding dangerous climate change.
Game apps for creative kids
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed new augmented creativity apps that combine virtual elements with real-life environments, enhancing children's creativity and social skills. The interactive colouring book and collaborative games in 3D showcase the potential of augmented reality to transform public spaces into engaging experiences.
Gambling our way against climate change
Researchers used an experimental game to study how government representatives make decisions in social dilemmas. The results show that selfish representatives who contribute less than their fair share can still be re-elected and lead their countries to reach the target sum, while others contribute more. This study highlights the comple...
Disney automated system lets characters leap and bound realistically in virtual worlds
Scientists at Disney Research developed an automated approach to generating life-like character motions, easing game designers' workload and providing instant feedback. The system seamlessly integrates into existing pipelines to produce virtual characters that can autonomously reason about their environments.
'Team players' are picked earlier in NFL draft -- and paid more, study shows
A study published in Journal of Applied Psychology found that players who display team-first behavior in college tend to be drafted earlier and earn higher salaries in the NFL. Researchers analyzed media reports of such behavior and found a significant impact on draft positions and first-year salaries.
Computers can tell if you're bored, shows new BSMS study
A new study from BSMS shows that computers can detect boredom by monitoring non-instrumental movements. The research has the potential to develop more engaging online tutoring programs and companion robots. By tracking subtle changes in body language, computers can adapt to a user's level of interest.
Detecting hidden malicious ads
A new detection system for Android could protect smartphones from malicious content, finding that even reputable apps can lead users to websites hosting malicious ads. The team tested one million apps and found that ads asking users to download a program are the most dangerous, containing malicious software about 50% of the time.
UBC-led study finds beliefs about all-knowing gods fosters co-operation
A UBC-led international collaboration found that beliefs about all-knowing gods that punish for wrongdoing can foster co-operation among people, contributing to the development of complex social organizations like states. The study showed that believers in such gods are more likely to behave fairly towards distant 'co-religionists',
Social hormone promotes cooperation in risky situations
Researchers found that hormone AVP increases willingness to cooperate in humans, mimicking pair bonding in rodents. The study used a game to test the effect of AVP on cooperative behavior, with participants who received the hormone more likely to cooperate than those who did not.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi sensing from mobile devices may help improve bus service
Researchers developed a system using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals to collect accurate travel data, matching origin and destination information collected by riders. The technology has the potential to improve equity in transit systems, particularly for less-privileged neighborhoods.
Chimp friendships are based on trust
A study found that chimpanzees extend trust selectively to their closest friends, showing similar characteristics to human friendships. The researchers observed interactions among 15 chimps over 5 months and used a modified trust game to assess their behavior.
A compassionate approach leads to more help and less punishment
Researchers found that compassion is linked to helping victims and punishing transgressors differently. Compassion training increased altruistic behavior in just two weeks.
An online game reveals something fishy about mathematical models
Researchers from Uppsala University implemented a Turing test to assess how good their mathematical models were at reproducing collective motion of real fish schools. Despite matching statistical properties, experts and public players could differentiate between simulated and real schools, highlighting areas for improvement.
Using mobile devices to augment reality can enhance creative play and exploration
Disney researchers developed mobile apps that add computer-generated animation, sound, and visuals to traditional activities like coloring books, scavenger hunts, and team games. The apps aim to create a seamless fusion of the real and virtual worlds, promoting creative play and exploration.
Does cheering affect the outcome of college hockey games?
A study conducted by a University of Nebraska student found that cheering crowd noise levels in college hockey stadiums have no strong correlation with goals scored. The study measured noise levels during four games and found the loudest sections to be around 95 decibels, which is equivalent to hearing a jackhammer from 50 feet away.
'Virtual Week' brain game has potential to help older adults remain independent longer
A one-month training program on the Virtual Week computer brain game strengthens prospective memory in older adults, which is crucial for planning and everyday functioning. The study shows that these cognitive gains transfer to real-world activities of daily living, with participants performing more tasks correctly than control groups.
Images of pleasure and winning have unique distracting power
A new study by University College London finds that positive images are highly distracting, even when the task is difficult, while negative images can be ignored. The researchers suggest using positive images in marketing campaigns to capture attention, as people are more focused on pleasure seeking than potential harm.
Laser-wielding physicists seize control of atoms' behavior
Researchers have successfully tuned lasers to manipulate atoms' interactions in a Bose-Einstein condensate, allowing for exotic states of matter. This breakthrough enables the exploration of unusual quantum phenomena and the engineering of novel quantum devices.
App will have athletes seeing double to make them think twice about concussions
A new app is being developed to educate NCAA football players on concussion awareness and encourage them to report real symptoms. The app, using virtual reality technology, aims to inspire student-athletes to prioritize their health and well-being.
UW team links 2 human brains for question-and-answer experiment
Researchers at UW linked two human brains to play a question-and-answer game via direct brain-to-brain connection. Participants successfully identified objects in 72% of real games, outperforming control rounds.
New study reveals Tetris can block cravings
A study found playing Tetris for three minutes reduced cravings for drugs, food, and activities like sex and sleeping by approximately one fifth. The benefits were maintained over a seven-day period.
Predicting the weather or the economy? How to make forecasts more trustworthy
A new study finds that forecasters are perceived as more confident and trustworthy when predicting high probabilities, leading to more accurate judgments about the prediction. This has practical implications for information outlets, with consumers preferring higher predictions from news programs and websites.
Statistical model predicts with high accuracy play-calling tendency of NFL teams
A statistical model predicts NFL teams' play-calling tendency with high accuracy, allowing casual fans and coaches to anticipate opponent's next play. The model achieved an average prediction accuracy of 75% in testing, with some games showing as high as 91.6% correct predictions.
College football head impact study suggests steps to reduce risk
A new study suggests that the NCAA's lack of regulation on full-contact practices comes at a 'high' cost to college players. Researchers found that subconcussive head impacts increased with padding levels, emphasizing the need for changes to reduce head injuries.
Head impacts and collegiate football practice and games
Researchers found that the number of head impacts increased with activity intensity, with games having the most impacts. However, average impact severity was similar across practices, with helmet-only practices showing lower severity. Greater regulation of football practices is suggested to reduce the burden of head impact.
'Brain training' app may improve memory and daily functioning of people with schizophrenia
A brain training iPad game has been shown to improve the memory of patients with schizophrenia, enabling them to function better in their daily lives. The study found significant improvements in episodic memory and global functioning, suggesting a potential therapeutic tool for managing the condition.
UBC team tracks measles cases introduced to B.C. during the 2010 Games
Researchers used genetic sequencing to trace the 2010 measles outbreak, linking it back to two visitors who brought separate genotypes of measles to Vancouver. The D8 and H1 strains spread across the province, resulting in 82 cases of measles.
Functioning brain follows famous sand pile model
The brain's electrical activity displays statistical hallmarks of criticality, a state where information processing is optimized. Spontaneous avalanches in the brain hold it at this balance point, with sensory input momentarily pushing the cortex away but adapting back to optimal critical regime.
Taking control of cancer -- from your mobile phone
A consortium of healthcare professionals, game developers, and oncology educators is developing intelligent 'games' to help cancer patients manage their illness through mobile phones. The iManageCancer project aims to provide psychological benefits, greater wellbeing, quality of life, and social support for young cancer patients.
Unsavory hits the App Store and Google Play
The game, developed by NERDLab at the University of Miami, aims to educate consumers and encourage them to speak up in favor of paid sick time. It was found that 60% of restaurant workers have had to work while sick, putting public health at risk.
Narrow misses can propel us toward other rewards and goals
Researchers discovered that near wins, such as coming close to winning a game or scratch-off lottery ticket, can intensify motivational energy and lead individuals to pursue unrelated goals. This 'near win' effect is thought to extend motivation beyond the original goal, resulting in faster completion of tasks.
Real stereotypes continue to exist in virtual worlds
Researchers found that women in online games received less help from fellow players when operating unattractive avatars or male avatars. The study supports the idea that gender and appearance stereotypes follow us into virtual environments.
Researchers harness the power of mobile devices to teach kids about safety
A new game app was tested on kindergartners to assess its effectiveness in teaching safety behaviors around dogs and while bicycling. The results showed that children who used the app learned significantly more safety strategies than those in a control group, and their behavior improved accordingly.
Professional golfers live a lonely life in the midst of rivalries on a meager income
Research reveals that professional golfers experience intense feelings of loneliness and isolation due to long periods away from home and family. Many struggle financially, with top-level golfers barely scraping by while those in lower-level tours often lose money.
Study: Most partisans treat politics like sports rivalries, instead of focusing on issues
A study found that most partisans prioritize winning elections over policy or ideological goals, leading to increased partisan hostility and uncivil attitudes. The researchers analyzed survey data from the 2010 Cooperative Congressional Election Study and found that loyalty to the party is a primary motivator for many partisans.
Interactivity tools can boost persuasiveness of websites
Researchers found that interactive tools can boost persuasiveness of websites, particularly modality interactivity, which absorbs users and limits thoughts, while message interactivity increases thoughts and promotes positive attitudes towards the message.
Social media and gaming initiative aims to enhance education on energy efficiency
The EnerGAware project uses a specially devised game for smartphones and tablets to encourage affordable housing residents to adopt energy-efficient practices. The three-year initiative also enhances IT literacy and promotes community engagement.
Most NFL players with injuries to the midfoot return to game action, Penn study finds
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that nearly 93% of NFL athletes with traumatic midfoot injuries returned to competition within 15 months and showed no significant decrease in performance. The study assessed the career impact of midfoot injuries, including effect on athletic performance after return to play.
Majority of parents unaware of safe pitching practices
A new study found that 53% of parents/caregivers of youth baseball pitchers are unaware of safe pitching practices designed to prevent overuse injuries. Sixty-four percent of parents or caregivers recalled their child having upper extremity pain as a direct result of pitching.
March Madness brackets: Flipping a coin is your best bet
A study by Dae Hee Kwak found that flipping a coin yields better results than carefully selecting March Madness brackets. The researcher's informal bracket alongside his study showed average scores better than the average of study participants.