Articles tagged with Recreation
A new framework analyzes dark tourism, thanatology, and collective memory studies to understand why people are drawn to events steeped in themes of death, disaster, and suffering. The study reveals a complex interplay of curiosity, thrill-seeking behavior, cultural traditions, and psychological exploration.
Researchers analyzed six US cities and found that tree species in parks were more drought-tolerant and reflected greater native biodiversity than those in residential yards. The study highlights the importance of planting drought-tolerant trees in urban areas to adapt to future climate change.
A recent study published in Current Biology indicates that outdoor recreation noise can trigger a fear response in wildlife, altering their behavior and habitat use. The research, conducted in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, found that different types of recreation noise, group size, and human presence affected animal responses.
A new study found that Coloradans are still ambivalent about hosting the Olympics, with strong opposition from self-identified Republicans and Independents to taxpayer-funded bids. The research suggests that cities need to address public costs and make clear why they believe the costs will be worth it.
A 12-week health education program using videoconferencing software showed improved physical activity and adherence to health advice compared to a control group. The study suggests that videoconferencing can be an effective tool for promoting sustainable behavioral changes among older adults, regardless of location or distance.
A repeated cross-sectional study of recreational marijuana laws and teen marijuana use from 1993-2021 found no evidence of an encouraging effect. The logistic regression and interaction-weighted models showed no significant association between the two variables.
A new Harvard study reveals that male bonobos engage in more acts of aggression than chimpanzees, contrary to their peaceful reputation. The researchers found that bonobos exhibit less sexual coercion and violence towards females, but more frequent 'squabbling' among males.
Researchers found that watching sports fosters a sense of community and belonging, while triggering activation in the brain's reward circuits. Regular sports viewing may also induce changes in brain structures, leading to long-term benefits for individuals.
Research using 2011-2021 data found limited associations between recreational cannabis legalization and adolescent substance use. Recreational cannabis retail sales were linked to lower e-cigarette use and an increased frequency of cannabis use among users, leading to no overall change in cannabis use.
A new study found that non-medical cannabis use is significantly associated with a 96% decrease in odds of subjective cognitive decline. However, medical and dual-use were not significant in reducing the risk of SCD. The study highlights the potential protective effects of cannabis on cognition, but more longitudinal research is needed...
Researchers estimated that recreation visits to Yellowstone produce over one megaton of carbon emissions per year, with an average of 479 kilograms attributable to each visitor. Despite this, the park's ecosystems still pull in around 1.5 megatons of carbon from the atmosphere each year.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that recreational activities such as golfing, gardening, and woodworking may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in men. The study surveyed over 700 individuals with and without ALS to assess their hobbies and non-work related activities.
A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that daily cannabis users had a 25% increased risk of heart attack and a 42% increased risk of stroke compared to non-users. The study also found significant cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use, including coronary heart disease and the combination of heart attack and stroke.
A new study found that specialty treatment for cannabis use disorder decreased in states with medical and recreational cannabis laws, despite a growing need for treatment. The study suggests that public education and access to evidence-based services are needed to address the unmet treatment needs of people with CUD.
A recent study found that recreational marijuana laws are associated with a 10% rise in workplace injuries among individuals aged 20-34, likely due to impaired cognitive function and care. The study suggests that these laws may have unintended consequences for worker safety.
A study found that living in a neighborhood with easy access to recreational centers and gyms is linked to higher physical activity levels among stroke survivors. The analysis suggests that having a conversation with stroke patients about available physical activity resources can help them continue their recovery.
A new study by the University of Plymouth shows that at-risk individuals are more likely to engage with loot boxes than those without, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement around these features. The research found that loot box use is driven by beliefs such as 'I'll win in a minute', echoing the psychology seen in gambling.
A cross-disciplinary study from the University of Cambridge reveals that a drought in southern California in the mid-1970s led to the explosive rise of professional skateboarding culture. The authors argue that small environmental changes can have profound effects on human behavior, stimulating cultural and technical innovation.
A new study from the University of Delaware uses machine learning and social media reviews to show environmental injustices in urban green spaces. The research found that neighborhoods with predominantly white, college-educated residents have a disproportionate access to higher quality parks.
A UC economist found a strong correlation between park funding and home values in Ohio communities. House prices were 13% higher three years after voting to renew tax levies for recreational areas, but not immediately after the vote. The study suggests that underfunded parks may be a contributing factor to lower housing values.
Researchers found that while tourists won't change their near-term plans due to climate change, more than two-thirds will reconsider by 2060 under drastically changed conditions. By 2060, 70% of tourists plan to shorten their trips in response to climate change.
A study published in Ecosphere found that national park attendance numbers remained steady despite the presence of high levels of wildfire smoke. The researchers used breakpoint modeling to analyze data from 1980-2019 and found that even dramatic amounts of smoke did not deter visitors.
Research at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a rise in binge drinking among people aged 31 and over in US states with recreational cannabis laws. Binge drinking declined among younger age groups, including those aged 12-20 and 21-30.
A new study followed over 7,000 middle-aged and older Canadians for three years, finding that social participation was associated with successful aging. Those who engaged in volunteer work and recreational activities were more likely to maintain excellent health and less likely to develop physical or mental problems.
A study from Dartmouth College found that athletes' physique is adapted to shedding or retaining heat in certain climates, affecting their performance in Ironman events. Taller, leaner runners excel in warm climates, while stockier builds fare better in colder climates.
A virtual yoga program led by Sean Mullen reduced stress and anxiety in full-time working adults, improving short-term memory. The study used moderate-intensity yoga sequences to investigate its benefits for executive functioning and adherence to exercise programs.
A pilot study by North Carolina State University researchers found that playing pickleball helped older adults aged 65 years and older reach their weekly recommended dose of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Participants averaged over 68 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per session, meeting CDC guidelines.
During the pandemic, children's recreational screen time significantly increased on weekdays compared to weekends. Once schools reopened, weekday screen time decreased but remained higher than pre-pandemic estimates.
A systematic review of literature on physical activity found that the built environment and social factors have a significant influence on physical activity levels. The study identified gaps in research, particularly in understanding how social and built environments interact across communities and affect health disparities. Researcher...
New research by Anglia Ruskin University found that attending live sporting events boosts life satisfaction and sense of life being worthwhile, while reducing loneliness. The study used data from over 7,200 adults living in England and suggests that watching live sport can be an effective public health tool.
Researchers found that well-designed facilities with diverse programming, cross-sector partnerships, and community needs analysis can promote long-term participation. Effective location choices and stakeholder engagement also contribute to facility productivity post-event.
Studies found an association between living close to higher-quality food stores and better weight loss outcomes after bariatric surgery. Living near low-diversity stores was linked to less sustained weight loss, while moderate- or high-diversity stores had no effect.
A global survey of large carnivore attacks found that attacks in high-income countries occurred mostly during recreation, while those in low-income countries were linked to livelihood activities. The study also highlighted the importance of tailored approaches to prevent such attacks.
A study of commercial and Medicare Advantage claims data from 2003 to 2017 found no statistically significant difference in psychosis-related diagnoses or prescribed antipsychotics between states with medical or recreational cannabis policies and those without. The findings suggest continued evaluation of psychosis as a potential conse...
The American College of Physicians recommends using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or second-generation antidepressants as initial treatment for adults with moderate to severe major depressive disorder. The guideline also suggests considering combination therapy and discussing patient preferences when selecting a treatment.
A study found that human presence in Glacier National Park causes 16 out of 22 mammal species to change their movement patterns, using different areas or being more nocturnal. The researchers suggest that this effect is significant enough to impact population survival.
Pediatric hospitalizations for cannabis poisonings increased significantly in provinces with legal edible cannabis sales compared to those without. The study highlights the need for regulatory measures to mitigate risks associated with recreational cannabis legalization.
Research warns that ice roads will become unsustainable as the climate warms, threatening remote communities and industry. The thickness of ice needed to support transport trucks varies by region, with some areas experiencing a 90% decline in safe days of ice.
A study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a link between recreational cannabis legalization and increased asthma prevalence among teens, especially minority racial and ethnic groups. Exposure to secondhand smoke is a key risk factor for asthma in children.
Scientists discover new Australian bush tomato species, Solanum scalarium, to promote equal and safe access to nature. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing environmental injustices and increasing participation from diverse groups in outdoor activities.
A new study demonstrates how anonymized smartphone data can monitor public use of parks and green spaces, shedding light on relationships between people and nature. The findings highlight potential for GPS data to inform management and optimize benefits for both recreation and biodiversity.
Australian children are spending too much time glued to screens and not enough on physical activity, with 80% of kids failing to meet national guidelines. A new review calls for a National Physical Activity Plan involving multiple sectors to address the issue.
Researchers used social media data to hindcast recreation visits before and after the fire, creating a complete picture of visitation changes. The approach holds promise for large, multi-ownership landscapes with inconsistent monitoring practices.
A new study ranks Great Britain's city centers based on their green attributes, including tree cover, vegetation, and parks, revealing disparities in urban biodiversity and human health. The top five cities are located in southern England, while the bottom five relate to industrial areas in northern Britain.
A study of 4.2 million adults in the US found that recreational cannabis laws may be associated with higher alcohol use rates, especially among younger adults and men. The findings suggest an unintended consequence of recreational cannabis legalization on alcohol consumption.
A new study by UBC researchers emphasizes the need for public urban greenspaces to be designed with the needs of young adults between 15 and 24 in mind. The research found that such spaces can promote social interactions, physical exercise, and psychological restoration, leading to improved mental health outcomes.
Researchers analyzed data from bike share stations in NYC, Chicago, and Philadelphia to understand disparities in bike share use. Key findings include concerns about traffic safety and personal safety among lower-income and people of color residents.
A University of Washington-led study found that even low levels of human activity in protected areas can alter wildlife behavior. Wildlife activity dropped to zero when outdoor recreation levels reached around 40 visitors per week in Glacier Bay National Park.
A study of 18 countries found that adults with good mental health reported more blue space experiences as children. This was associated with greater intrinsic value on natural settings and more frequent visits as adults, leading to better mental wellbeing.
A new study from the University of Tokyo suggests that Tokyo's suburban gardens should collaborate with urban gardens to disperse visitors and avoid overtourism issues. The research highlights the need for these quiet locations to learn from each other's experiences and work together to create positive tourism experiences.
A study by PLOS analyzed Australian race yards and found no significant difference in performance between male and female jockeys. The research suggests that the sex of the jockey does not impact the physiology or performance of the racehorse.
Researchers at the University of Washington developed AquaApp, a mobile app that enables underwater messaging on billions of existing smartphones and smartwatches using software. The app uses acoustic signals to transmit messages and can accommodate up to 60 unique users on its local network.
Researchers found that NYC park users prioritized outdoor activities like walking, jogging, and biking during the pandemic. Social media data revealed concerns about social distancing, crowds, and mask-wearing, as well as specific incidents that reflected broader societal issues.
A new study at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that adults who use cannabis daily perceive pack a day cigarette use as less harmful than non-cannabis users. The study suggests that diminished risk perception may contribute to the observed increase in cannabis use among adults.
A study found that exposure to urban greenness has unequal effects on men's and women's mental health, with women benefiting from walking and leisure activities but facing safety concerns. Researchers call for gendered equity in park planning to address these disparities.
A new study by Stanford researchers shows that nature-based solutions, such as conserving marshlands and restoring beaches, can be as effective as concrete seawalls in protecting against sea-level rise. The research found that these solutions provide extra benefits, including opportunities for recreation, climate change mitigation thro...
A new study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University finds that upscale hotels in Texas benefit most from hosting Tesla charging stations between 2015-2018. The study suggests that the benefits are due to brand alignment and the presence of nearby tourist attractions, which attract customers seeking charging services.
Artificial Intelligence can now identify legendary batting techniques used by Sir Donald Bradman and modern players. Researchers developed a deep learning computer vision AI model to detect lateral backlift batters from straight ones.
Researchers found that humans' natural tendency is to run at a speed that conserves caloric loss, defying the common goal of racing to shave time off miles. By analyzing data from wearable fitness trackers and lab experiments, scientists discovered that most runners maintained a consistent speed for short and long distances.
A new study from Brigham Young University finds that the Every Kid Outdoors program is increasing family hiking, with a seven-fold jump in frequency among high-income and white families. However, minority and lower-income families have not seen a similar significant increase in hiking frequency.