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Digital games on vaping devices could lure more youth to nicotine addiction

Researchers warn that smart vapes with touch screens, animated displays, and built-in games can couple nicotine addiction with gaming disorder. The devices are user-friendly and attractive to youth, potentially broadening the market to include non-nicotine users.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalTobacco Control·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2024
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.

Cyberbullying and sexual harassment rampant in esports

A new Australian study reveals widespread cyberbullying and sexual harassment in the esports industry, particularly affecting cis-gendered and trans-gendered women players. The study found that professional gamers are exposed to hostile behavior, which affects their mental health.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalEntertainment Computing·TypeSurvey·DateJun 17, 2024

Apps get better when developers diversify

Research from Texas McCombs finds that developers who multihome their software attract more users to the original product, improving its performance and standing out in the market. The study also shows that multihoming can lead to a 5.3% increase in average monthly usage for similar products.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateJun 11, 2024

UMA scientists have modified the configuration parameters of “phantom sensations” so that they are perceived by individuals

Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed an instruction manual to understand the operating limits of phantom motion, allowing for cost-effective and lighter haptic devices. The study found that individuals can perceive phantom sensation when a vibrating point travels at least 20% of the separation between actuators.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalDisplays·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 29, 2024

Gamers say they hate ‘smurfing,’ but admit they do it

A new study reveals that gamers believe smurfing is toxic, but most admit to doing it for valid reasons. Researchers found that participants perceived smurfs as more likely to be toxic, yet reported similar levels of smurfing themselves.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNew Media & Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2024

Virtual reality becomes more engaging when designers use cinematic tools

A recent study found that cinematographic techniques can significantly increase user engagement with virtual environments and improve their aesthetic appeal. The researchers developed a new teleportation method for exploring virtual environments using principles of composition and continuity, commonly used in filmmaking.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Computer game in school made students better at detecting fake news

A study by Uppsala University found that a computer game called Bad News improved students' ability to identify manipulative techniques in social media posts and distinguish reliable from misleading news. The game, played individually or in groups, had positive effects on students' critical thinking skills.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Research on Technology in Education·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2024

An international sample of adolescents shows almost 17% experience weight-related bullying online, especially for social media users—with almost 70 percent of Twitter users reporting being bullied

A study found that almost 17% of adolescents experience weight-related bullying online, with the highest rates reported by Twitter users. The survey also revealed a strong association between screen time, social media use, and weight-related bullying, with a 13% increase in bullying for every additional hour of screen time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateApr 17, 2024
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.

Millions of gamers advance biomedical research

Millions of gamers worldwide contribute to reconstructing microbial evolutionary histories using a minigame in Borderlands 3, significantly refining estimates of human gut microbes. This collaboration lays groundwork for improved AI programs and advances knowledge of the microbiome.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 15, 2024

Giving video games this Christmas? New research underlines need to be aware of loot box risks

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.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

Addicted to your phone? New tool identifies overuse of digital media

The Digital Media Overuse Scale (dMOS) is a new tool that measures digital media addiction, providing clinically relevant scores across various domains. Researchers found that overuse is typically reported in one or a few domains only, with social media being a significant concern.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTechnology Mind and Behavior·DateDec 5, 2023

Researchers caution diabetes patients’ use of fitness video games

A new study by Staffordshire University warns people with type-1 diabetes to use fitness video games with caution, as they may change perceptions of fatigue levels. The researchers recommend updating measurement tools for virtual game platforms to ensure safe and accurate exercise tracking.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalJournal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 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.

Children’s brains shaped by their time on tech devices, research to-date shows

A review of 23 years of neuroimaging research finds that screen time affects the pre-frontal cortex and other brain regions involved in executive functions, memory, and processing. Digital experiences may shape children's brains and influence cognitive development, with both positive and negative impacts.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalEarly Education and Development·DateNov 17, 2023

Left-handers aren’t better spatially, gaming research shows

Researchers analyzed data from over 420,000 participants across 41 countries and found no link between left-handedness and improved spatial skills. The study used a video game to measure navigational abilities and confirmed that factors like age, gender, and education do not influence hand preference and spatial ability.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 9, 2023

How video games could unlock new treatments for Parkinson’s

A study by researchers at the University of California - Riverside found that certain aspects of video game play can stimulate dopamine release and potentially aid in treating Parkinson's disease symptoms. The research suggests a promising new approach for managing the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateOct 10, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Tetris to the rescue of women having experienced a traumatic birth: A large-scale study confirms its effectiveness for prevention

A large-scale study confirms that playing Tetris for fifteen minutes can prevent psychological trauma in mothers after a difficult birth. The therapeutic activity was found to interfere with memory consolidation of traumatic images, thereby preventing the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms linked to childbirth.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 28, 2023

Effectiveness of video gameplay restrictions questioned in new study

A new study has questioned the effectiveness of China's legal restrictions on young people's video game time, analyzing over 7 billion hours of playtime data from tens of thousands of games. The research found no evidence of a decrease in heavy gaming after the restrictions were implemented.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 10, 2023

How good or evil are you when gaming?

A study by Macquarie University researchers explores how players respond to morality meters in games, showing that most ignore clear moral choices but use them when ambiguous. The research provides insights into the impact of morality meters on player behavior and has implications for moral education and awareness.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023
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.

Could online gaming social networks have a positive impact on mental health?

A new study found that social support, sense of community, and depressive symptoms played a role in changes to an online gaming site's social structure over time. Members who reported more social support and a greater sense of community were more likely to form communication ties and connect with others.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalSociological Focus·DateMay 9, 2023

Joyful music could be a game changer for virtual reality headaches

Researchers found that joyful and calming music significantly decrease cybersickness intensity, nausea-related symptoms, and impairing effects on memory skills, reaction times, reading speed, and pupil size. The study suggests the potential of music as a solution for cybersickness in virtual reality.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalIEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2023
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.

Limbitless Solutions selected for 2023 Unity for Humanity Grant

Limbitless Solutions has been selected as one of eight winners for the 2023 Unity for Humanity Grant. The organization will use $85,000 to develop its video game Quantum's Pursuit, which aims to empower children and adults with limb differences to learn how to use their bionic arms in a fun and engaging way.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateApr 18, 2023

Imagery training could give esport athletes a competitive edge

A new study suggests that esport athletes can benefit from using 'imagery ability' techniques to build rich and vivid multi-sensory images of success. The technique, called Layered Stimulus Response Training, has been shown to improve imagery ability levels and sporting performance in regular athletes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 18, 2023

Generative modeling tools renders 2D sketches in 3D

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed Pix2pix3d, a machine learning tool that generates realistic 3D representations of 2D sketches. The tool allows users to create customized 3D models for various applications, including video games and consumer products.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateApr 6, 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.

A study shows that the physical appearance of video game characters affects girls' body image dissatisfactio

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that playing video games has a negative impact on girls' satisfaction with their eye and skin color. The researchers concluded that the media's emphasis on women's physical appearance contributes to body-shape pressure, making girls feel insecure about their bodies.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalRevista Mediterránea de Comunicación·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 28, 2023

Checking children’s wellbeing: Before and after COVID-19

Researchers found that girls generally fared better than boys in terms of wellbeing, but boys tended to improve when returning to school. The study also showed that children with lower family support scores suffered more from the lockdowns.

SourceGriffith University·JournalAustralian Journal of Social Issues·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2023

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
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Digital content could be altering your visual perception, new research shows

New research explores the impact of digital media on visual perception, finding that online environments can shift what the brain pays attention to. Studies suggest that excessive digital use can lead to a reduced sensitivity to oblique angles, but this effect may not be permanent once exposure to nature increases.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPerception·DateFeb 21, 2023

How brains synchronize during cooperative tasks

Researchers employed computer vision to extract social behaviors and linked them to brain synchronization patterns in a novel approach. During cooperative play, brain synchronization was strongest when participants shared gaze, while individual play showed increased within-brain synchronization.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateFeb 13, 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.

Screen time linked to OCD in U.S. preteens

A new national study found that excessive screen time, especially video gaming and watching videos, is linked to an increased risk of developing OCD in US preteens. The study, led by UCSF researchers, suggests that intrusive thoughts about video game content can develop into obsessions or compulsions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 12, 2022

Research team explores virtual romantic relationships

A research team from Hiroshima University studied virtual romantic relationships using anthropomorphism, finding that connection and relationship authenticity predict real-world relationships. The study used laboratory studies with romantic video games to examine how anthropomorphism predicts relationship outcomes.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·DateOct 28, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Video gaming may be associated with better cognitive performance in children

A study of nearly 2,000 children found that those who played video games for three hours per day or more performed better on cognitive skills tests involving impulse control and working memory. The researchers observed higher brain activity in regions associated with attention and memory, suggesting that practicing tasks related to imp...

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 24, 2022

Watch brain cells in a dish learn to play Pong in real time

Researchers successfully taught human and mouse neurons to play the video game Pong in real-time, showcasing their ability to exhibit sentience and adapt to a changing environment. The study's findings have potential applications in disease modeling, drug discoveries, and expanding our understanding of brain function.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 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.

Video games offer the potential of “experiential medicine”

Scientists at UC San Francisco's Neuroscape Center have developed video game interventions that improve key aspects of cognition in aging adults, including short-term memory, attention and long-term memory. The games use adaptive closed-loop algorithms to challenge players, keeping them engaged while adapting difficulty levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2022

Sport, sleep or screens: New app reveals the ‘just right’ day for kids

The Healthy-Day-App assesses time use patterns in children and predicts outcomes on body fat percentages, wellbeing, and academic performance. Shifting screen time to physical activity results in improved health outcomes, including 4.2% lower body fat and 2.5% better wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Gamers can have their cake and eat it too

A study by Kyoto University and BonBon Inc found that complex games like Potion can measure distinct cognitive skills such as stealth behavior and abstract thinking in young players. However, older players did not exhibit the same level of engagement, challenging existing beliefs about gaming's impact on cognition.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2022

GIST scientists develop model that adjusts videogame difficulty based on player emotions

Researchers from GIST developed an AI model that adjusts videogame difficulty based on player emotions, incorporating aspects such as challenge, competence, flow, and valence. The model has been verified to improve players' overall experience, regardless of their preference, and has potential applications in various fields beyond gaming.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 6, 2022

Driving simulations that look more life-like

A new method for generating realistic images in driving simulations uses machine learning to improve visual fidelity. This enables better testing of driverless cars and study of driver distraction, ultimately enhancing safety and interaction between humans and AI on the road.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 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.

Behavior problems and excessive use of gadgets - cause or effect?

A study from the Alpha Generation Lab found that hyperactive children are more likely to use digital devices, while fidgety children may be more prone to social problems. The researchers suggest a two-way street where digital devices and behavior problems influence each other.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalSustainability·DateAug 10, 2022

Video game players show enhanced brain activity, decision-making skill study: Video game players show enhanced brain activity, decision-making skill

A study by Georgia State University researchers found that frequent video game players exhibit superior sensorimotor decision-making skills and increased brain activity compared to non-players. The study suggests that video games can be used for training in perceptual decision-making, with no trade-off between speed and accuracy.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNeuroImage·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2022

Big winners: Gamers with obesity perform better in long-term eSports competitions

Researchers found that high BMI is a positive factor in eSports performance after prolonged playing time, contrary to the general expectation. Obesity has been linked to lower cognitive flexibility and decision-making abilities in adults, but the study suggests a potential counterexample in the eSports industry.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateJun 26, 2022

Who benefits from brain training and why?

A joint UC Riverside and UC Irvine study found that people who show near transfer in brain training are more likely to experience far transfer, meaning improved focus and problem-solving skills. The research suggests that working memory training can be effective for certain individuals, but its impact on fluid intelligence remains deba...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022
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.

Haptics device creates realistic virtual textures

Researchers developed a preference-driven model that uses human users to fine-tune virtual textures, allowing for more accurate and personalized tactile experiences. The technology has applications in various fields, including video games, fashion design, and surgical training.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Haptics·DateMay 20, 2022

Video games can help boost children’s intelligence

A Swedish study of over 9,000 children found that playing video games increased their intelligence by 2.5 IQ points compared to TV-watching or social media. The study controlled for genetic differences and socioeconomic background, suggesting a positive effect of video games on cognitive abilities.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 12, 2022

Better coaching needed to prevent burnout among video gaming pros

A study by University of Waterloo researchers identified areas such as player fatigue, mental stress, and peak performance conditions that require in-depth research to improve coaching and player performance. Professional esports players often practice for 12-14 hours a day, six days a week, leading to burnout and physical injuries.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEntertainment Computing·DateApr 13, 2022

How could changing a long-trodden path boost a company’s digital transformation?

Researchers identified two strategies for altering an organisation's environment, structure, strategy, and leadership to achieve digital transformation. By following a path that offers fewer obstacles, businesses can effectively adopt either horizontal or vertical reconfiguration.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Business Research·TypeSurvey·DateApr 6, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Where we grow up influences our sense of direction

Research reveals that people who grew up in rural areas have a better sense of direction than those in cities, especially in countries with complex topographies. The study used video game data from Sea Hero Quest to analyze over 400,000 participants from 38 countries.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2022