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A virtual way to rehab from a stroke

Researchers developed a video game-based therapy, Recovery Rapids, to aid stroke patients in improving their motor skills from home. The game helped patients adhere to exercises and showed similar outcomes to traditional constraint-induced therapy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeCase study·DateMar 9, 2022

Computer games in the classroom: educational success depends on the teacher

A new study by University of Cologne researchers reveals that computer games can significantly boost educational success when used effectively in the classroom. The study found that personal characteristics of pre-service teachers play a crucial role in their intention to adopt digital game-based learning, with perceived effectiveness ...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Technology·TypeSurvey·DateMar 3, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

MU earns $12 million in grants to boost science education, literacy

University of Missouri researchers are using a video game to teach middle schoolers about science and improving literacy outcomes for second graders through speech recognition software. The programs aim to increase student engagement and prepare them for future careers in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 4, 2022

GIST Researchers develop Terrain-Aware AI for predicting battle outcomes in StarCraft 2

A team of scientists from Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology developed a deep learning-based approach to predict SC2 battle outcomes by considering army composition and terrain type. The proposed model leveraged parameter sharing, enabling it to analyze complex factors accurately and make predictions.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 18, 2022

Improving reading skills through action video games

A new study demonstrates that playing a child-friendly action video game can improve reading skills, including speed, accuracy, and comprehension. Children who played the game showed significant long-term improvements in attentional control and literacy compared to those who played a coding game.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 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.

Mental health: Consuming traditional media has little impact on well-being

A recent study found that consuming traditional forms of media, such as books and music, has negligible effect on anxiety and happiness levels in adults. However, engaging with newer types of media, like social media and video games, was linked to lower happiness and higher anxiety levels.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 6, 2022

Screen use, mental health symptoms in children during pandemic

A recent study by Xuedi Li and colleagues found that excessive screen time was associated with increased symptoms of depression, anxiety, and hyperactivity in children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research suggests that parents should monitor their child's screen use to mitigate potential mental health effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 28, 2021

Live-streaming ads for alcohol, junk food increased during pandemic

A Penn State study found that live-streaming ads for alcohol, energy drinks, and junk food significantly increased during the pandemic, targeting young viewers. The researchers discovered that energy drinks made up nearly 80% of marketing, while ads for restaurants and soda were also prevalent.

SourcePenn State·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2021
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.

UC research: ‘Tweens’ increased media use during the 2020 pandemic summer

A recent study by the University of Cincinnati found that tweens spent more time using media during the 2020 pandemic summer, highlighting the need to reassess notions of 'too much' screen time. The research suggests that media use can have both positive and negative effects on children's lives, with some finding connection with peers ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPsychology of Popular Media·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2021

12-year-old children consume on average 8 1/4 hours of media daily, with media multitasking associated with worse mental health outcomes but videogaming associated with better mental health outcomes

A study of 8-12 year olds reveals that media multitasking is associated with worse mental health outcomes, while videogaming shows a positive correlation. The research highlights the importance of balancing screen time with other activities for children's overall well-being.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 17, 2021

Could computer games encourage people to adhere to COVID-19 measures?

A study from Lancaster University found that a serious game, 'Point of Contact', increased players' awareness of Covid-19 transmission risk and favorability towards health over livelihood. The game's impact was significant, with 87% of participants saying they would be more careful in following Covid-19 preventative guidance.

SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

Video games can have similar health benefits to jogging

Active video games have been shown to give similar physiological effects to traditional exercise, such as jogging, in type 1 diabetics. The studies found that playing these games could help lower blood glucose levels and improve cardiovascular health.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalGames for Health Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 6, 2021

Video game with biofeedback helps kids and teens regulate stress and anger

A randomized trial found that a video game with biofeedback can help youth learn to regulate their anger, leading to reduced aggression and oppositional behavior. The game trains kids to stay calm during stressful situations, and its effectiveness was validated in parents' and clinicians' reports.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 5, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Mount Sinai opens The Charles Lazarus Children’s Abilities Center

The Charles Lazarus Children’s Abilities Center at Mount Sinai offers cutting-edge treatments for children with disabilities, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The center features state-of-the-art equipment and a multidisciplinary team of experts providing comprehensive care to children from birth to age 21.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 4, 2021

Giving performers copyright over their work could protect them from deepfake technology, study shows

A new study by Dr Mathilde Pavis from the University of Exeter Law School proposes reforming performers' rights to include copyright over their performances. This would provide better protection against unauthorized deepfakes and simplify the structure of intellectual property law.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalConvergence The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 3, 2021

Teenagers aren't as lonely in lockdown if interacting positively online

A recent study of over 700 Peruvian adolescents during the COVID-19 lockdown found that teenagers who interacted positively online reported less loneliness and better well-being. The quality of their online interactions, such as chatting with friends and relatives, was a key factor in reducing loneliness.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smartphone gaming can be harmful for some seeking relief from boredom

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that people who experience intense boredom frequently in everyday life may seek 'flow' by playing smartphone games to escape their feelings. This 'boredom fix' can lead to negative consequences and excessive gaming, ultimately increasing depression.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJul 21, 2021

Commercial video games could help treat mental illness

Researchers at Lero found that commercial video games could be used as an effective and stigma-free alternative for treating depression and anxiety. The study suggests that these games can be accessed at a low cost or for free, making them a viable option for people with limited access to mental health care.

SourceLero·JournalJMIR Serious Games·DateJun 17, 2021
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.

Weight-loss maintainers sit less than weight-stable people with obesity

A recent study found that successful weight losers sit significantly less during the week and weekends compared to those who are weight stable. Weight loss maintainers expended more calories per week in physical activity, suggesting that moving more may be key to long-term weight maintenance.

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateMay 24, 2021

The brain game: What causes engagement and addiction to video games?

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a model to understand the brain mechanisms behind video game addiction. They found that games can be designed to promote healthy engagement, while also addressing addictive behavior.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateMay 11, 2021

How Fortnite and Zelda can up your surgical game (no joke!)

A study by a University of Ottawa medical student found that video games can improve surgical skills, particularly in robotic surgery and laparoscopic procedures. Games like Super Monkey Ball and Half Life were associated with improvements in time to completion, economy of motion, and overall performance.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalSurgery·DateApr 1, 2021
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.

Video gamers skills enhanced by training 10 minutes a day

Researchers at Lero found that novice gamers benefit most from tDCS before training sessions, improving performance on complex sensory-motor actions. The study suggests that neurostimulation can accelerate motor performance improvements in novice esports participants.

SourceLero·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMar 26, 2021

Game on: Science edition

Researchers trained an AI agent to conduct scientific experiments using a virtual beamline simulation, allowing for efficient and remote experimentation. The team implemented reinforcement learning to train the AI, which enabled it to learn from experience and master the experiment.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMar 25, 2021

Boys who play video games have lower depression risk

A new study published in Psychological Medicine found that boys who regularly play video games at age 11 are less likely to develop depressive symptoms three years later. In contrast, girls who spend more time on social media appear to develop more depressive symptoms. The study suggests that different types of screen time can positive...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateFeb 18, 2021
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.

Youth with autism see sharp decline in physical activity between ages 9-13

A recent study from Oregon State University found that children with autism experience a significant decline in physical activity between ages 9 and 13. The study suggests that interventions targeting this age range can help maintain healthy rates of physical activity. The research also highlights the importance of physical activity fo...

SourceOregon State University·JournalAutism·DateFeb 1, 2021
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.

Monkeys, like humans, persist at tasks they've already invested in

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that both capuchin monkeys and rhesus macaques exhibit the sunk cost phenomenon, persisting longer than optimal when uncertain about outcomes. This behavior is driven by evolutionary mechanisms and uncertainty, suggesting it may be deeply embedded across species.

SourceGeorgia State University·DateDec 18, 2020

Using a video game to understand the origin of emotions

A team from UNIGE used a specially developed video game to investigate the emergence of emotions, confirming that brain components respond in parallel distributed throughout the brain. The results show transient synchronisation generating an emotional state, involving areas like the somatosensory and motor pathways.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 4, 2020
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.

Screen time can change visual perception -- and that's not necessarily bad

Research from Binghamton University found that the human perceptual system rapidly adjusts to changes in visual experience, including playing video games. The study shows that people can adapt quickly to changes in their environment, with some arguing that this adaptation is helpful in a digital world.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPerception·DateSep 30, 2020

Researchers exploit weaknesses of master game bots

A new algorithm has been developed by Penn State researchers to train adversarial bots that can exploit weaknesses in master game bots using deep reinforcement learning. The algorithm successfully defeated a world-class AI bot in StarCraft II, highlighting the security threat of using such agents.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 30, 2020

Playing video games as a child can improve working memory years later

A study from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya found that people who played video games regularly as children performed better in working memory tasks even after stopping. However, those without gaming experience showed slower performance and did not benefit from improvements in processing irrelevant stimuli.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateSep 22, 2020

Dartmouth-industry collaborations improve computer graphics

Researchers at Dartmouth have developed two new software techniques that can create more realistic lighting effects in computer-generated images. The new techniques focus on 'real-time' graphics, which need to maintain the illusion of interactivity as scenes change in response to user moves.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateJul 24, 2020
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.

Digitize your dog into a computer game

Researchers from the University of Bath have developed motion capture technology that can digitise dogs without a suit and using only one camera. This technology has various applications, including helping vets diagnose lameness and monitoring recovery in canine patients.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJun 16, 2020

Playing video games linked with unhealthy behaviors for college men

A new study suggests that college men who play video games are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as poor eating habits and reduced physical activity. The research found that gamers consumed more saturated fat and sodium, while engaging in less fruit and vegetable consumption.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Multifunctional e-glasses monitor health, protect eyes, control video game

Researchers developed smart e-glasses that wirelessly monitor brain waves, body movements and UV intensity while acting as sunglasses. The device allows users to control a video game with eye motions and can potentially aid in digital healthcare or virtual reality applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 27, 2020
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.

Is video game addiction real?

A recent six-year study on video game addiction found that about 90% of gamers do not play in a way that is harmful or causes negative long-term consequences. However, a significant minority can become truly addicted to video games, suffering mentally and socially. The study identified predictors such as being male and having low level...

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateMay 13, 2020

Video game experience, gender may improve VR learning

A new Cornell University study found that students with more video game experience learned better using VR than those with little experience, with males showing greater advantage. The study suggests that either prior video game experience or gender may impact the success of VR-based learning.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 25, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Using technology during mealtimes may decrease food intake, study finds

Researchers found that participants who consumed a meal while playing a computer game ate significantly less than those who ate without distractions. The study also showed that the effect of distraction on food consumption can persist even after the initial distracted eating experience.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateMar 6, 2020

Mice 'detectives' hint at how humans read between the lines

Scientists at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown designed an experiment where mice had to infer water reward locations using indirect evidence. The study revealed key brain regions involved in inference and compared mouse performance to a human version of the task, highlighting the cognitive skill's importance.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 11, 2020

Enjoying the view? How computer games can help evaluate landscapes

Geographers from Staffordshire University developed virtual landscape visualizations to assess Welsh countryside quality. Over 70% of respondents were satisfied with the realism and representativeness of these digital landscapes, which could engage younger audiences in landscape assessments.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalApplied Geography·DateFeb 6, 2020

Can exercise improve video game performance?

A new study found that a single bout of intense cardiovascular exercise can improve video game performance. The research, led by Dr. Marc Roig, challenged the idea that video gaming and physical activity are antagonistic activities. Exercise was shown to benefit players regardless of their fitness level or emotional response.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJan 30, 2020

A person's perception of risk can tell us about their chances of opioid relapse

A study by Rutgers University found that individuals in opioid addiction treatment are more likely to relapse when they exhibit a strong tolerance for risks, especially in situations with unknown outcomes. This knowledge can help clinicians predict and monitor vulnerable patients for changes that may affect their relapse risk.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateDec 8, 2019
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.

Study questions video games' effects on violent behavior

A new study examined data from over 15,000 participants and found that playing video games as an adolescent is not linked to acts of violence in young adulthood. The research suggests that competing factors, such as gender differences, may contribute to the observed relationship between gaming and fighting.

SourceWiley·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateNov 6, 2019

Escapism: A powerful predictor of internet gaming disorder among video gamers

A recent study found that both professional esports players and recreational video game players are at risk of developing internet gaming disorder when they use gaming as a means of escapism. The study, which surveyed over 4,300 gamers, suggests that escapist tendencies can be a common predictor of gaming disorder in both groups.

SourceElsevier·JournalComprehensive Psychiatry·DateOct 22, 2019

Computer science classes break down cultural barriers, study shows

A new study from Cornell University researchers found that computational education can foster intercultural learning and unlikely friendships between students from diverse backgrounds. Despite initial resistance, the structure of the class enabled cooperation and bonding among students from different ethnic groups.

SourceCornell University·DateOct 21, 2019
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.

New research analyzes video game player engagement

Researchers analyzed 1,309 gamers' playing history over 29 months, finding that varying game difficulty based on players' engagement levels increases use by 4-8%. The study suggests introducing surprises like new maps or game modes to offset decreased player curiosity.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateSep 25, 2019

Decoding how kids get into hacking

Researchers found that predictors of juvenile delinquency, such as low self-control, are common factors for both boys and girls. For girls, peer associations played a significant role in hacking behavior, while for boys, time spent playing video games was associated with hacking. The study highlights the importance of parents understan...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCrime & Delinquency·DateSep 19, 2019

Making it count

Round numbers can significantly increase people's sense of accomplishment when tracking progress towards goals, according to Washington State University research. Studies show that customers feel more accomplished when their progress is expressed in round numbers, particularly at intermediate targets.

SourceWashington State University·JournalMarketing Letters·DateAug 21, 2019
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.

Want to boost creativity? Try playing Minecraft

Research from Iowa State University found that playing Minecraft fosters creative freedom and increases creativity. Players given the freedom to play Minecraft without instruction were most creative, suggesting that autonomy is crucial for unlocking creative potential.

SourceIowa State University·JournalCreativity Research Journal·DateJul 8, 2019