Laser Focus World is an industry bedrock—first published in 1965 and still going strong. We publish original articles about cutting-edge advances in lasers, optics, photonics, sensors, and quantum technologies, as well as test and measurement, and the shift currently underway to usher in the photonic integrated circuits, optical interconnects, and copackaged electronics and photonics to deliver the speed and efficiency essential for data centers of the future.

Our 80,000 qualified print subscribers—and 130,000 12-month engaged online audience—trust us to dive in and provide original journalism you won’t find elsewhere covering key emerging areas such as laser-driven inertial confinement fusion, lasers in space, integrated photonics, chipscale lasers, LiDAR, metasurfaces, high-energy laser weaponry, photonic crystals, and quantum computing/sensors/communications. We cover the innovations driving these markets.

Laser Focus World is part of Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B.

Laser Focus World Membership

Never miss any articles, videos, podcasts, or webinars by signing up for membership access to Laser Focus World online. You can manage your preferences all in one place—and provide our editorial team with your valued feedback.

Magazine Subscription

Can you subscribe to receive our print issue for free? Yes, you sure can!

Newsletter Subscription

Laser Focus World newsletter subscription is free to qualified professionals:

The Daily Beam

Showcases the newest content from Laser Focus World, including photonics- and optics-based applications, components, research, and trends. (Daily)

Product Watch

The latest in products within the photonics industry. (9x per year)

Bio & Life Sciences Product Watch

The latest in products within the biophotonics industry. (4x per year)

Laser Processing Product Watch

The latest in products within the laser processing industry. (3x per year)

Get Published!

If you’d like to write an article for us, reach out with a short pitch to Sally Cole Johnson: [email protected]. We love to hear from you.

Photonics Hot List

Laser Focus World produces a video newscast that gives a peek into what’s happening in the world of photonics.

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast

Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast dives deep into the fascinating world of photonics. Our weekly episodes feature interviews and discussions with industry and research experts, providing valuable perspectives on the issues, technologies, and trends shaping the photonics community.

Editorial Advisory Board

  • Professor Andrea M. Armani, University of Southern California
  • Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D., LightSolver
  • James Butler, Ph.D., Hamamatsu
  • Natalie Fardian-Melamed, Ph.D., Columbia University
  • Justin Sigley, Ph.D., AmeriCOM
  • Professor Birgit Stiller, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, and Leibniz University of Hannover
  • Professor Stephen Sweeney, University of Glasgow
  • Mohan Wang, Ph.D., University of Oxford
  • Professor Xuchen Wang, Harbin Engineering University
  • Professor Stefan Witte, Delft University of Technology

Here’s why enjoying screen-free play is good for you ... and your cat

(BPT) - Getting tired of scrolling on your phone? While it may seem like a stress-reliever, constantly being glued to screens can actually increase stress.

A recent University of Texas study found that taking a break from our screens can significantly improve mood and well-being. Many of us have fond memories of childhood weekends spent playing outdoors or staying in for game nights with family and friends. Reviving these routines is a great way to unplug and get much-needed breaks from overstimulation and stress.

If you're seeking engaging activities beyond the screen, why not revive the cherished tradition of game night?

According to the National Institute for Play, the many benefits of play throughout your adult years include emotional, physical, social and cognitive advantages. And humans aren't the only ones who benefit from play - if you're a pet owner, you may already know how much our furry friends love to engage in fun activities.

"Play is a great outlet for humans and pets alike," said Purina pet behaviorist Dr. Annie Valuska. "Enjoying activities together is one of the best ways to deepen your bond with your pets."

Game Time Meets Play Time

If you have a pet at home, including them in your screen-free routines is a great way for both of you to get much-needed playtime and mental stimulation while strengthening your bond.

Friskies, the popular cat food and treat brand, recently created a brand-new game, "Adventures in Friskies World" to give board game and pet enthusiasts a fun activity that brings back the nostalgia of game night - with a feline twist.

A board game called

Developed by world-class game designer Ellie Dix, with cat insights from Dr. Annie Valuska, Adventures in Friskies World gives cat fans and board game lovers a challenging adventure that will keep them on their toes. Plus, if you have a cat at home, your felines also get a special toy included in the game, so they can stay entertained with the greatest toy of all - the cardboard shipping box the game arrives in.

"Cats are often incorrectly stereotyped as aloof and reserved, but their health and development benefit tremendously from playtime with us," said Dr. Valuska. "They enjoy variety, and they love a challenge - much like humans do - so we designed the game with their instincts in mind."

Couple petting their cat in a carrier while attending game night at a friend's house.

The Adventures in Friskies World game is available for purchase at BoardGame.friskies.com, while supplies last.

Dr. Annie's Tips for Enhancing Cat Playtime

Meanwhile, to help bring out the playful side in your cats, keep them in mind as you explore new ways to play, using tips from Dr. Annie, and even taking inspiration from the board game.

1. Discover your cat's favorite toys

Experiment with different toys to find out what your cat responds to the best. Cats naturally love to stalk, chase and pounce. Try out different toys that are designed for them to bat around, clutch, kick or carry, such as balls or small stuffed toys.

Safety tip: Always supervise play with toys that have feathers, strings or other parts that could be swallowed.

2. Explore different play modes

While some cats love to catch toys and then stay put with their "prey," others are more intrigued by toys that move or make noise. Some like to chase a toy that is fast moving, while others are intrigued by slow stalking.

Changing how you play with toys can make things more interesting for your cat. It will help you learn which styles of play your cat likes best, giving you more opportunities to enjoy spending time together.

3. Bring out the boxes

You've seen it happen - sometimes your cat likes the box their new toys came in better than the toys themselves! And luckily, Adventures in Friskies World comes in a box your cat will enjoy. But why do cats love boxes so much?

"Cats are ambush mesopredators who love cardboard boxes because they provide a safe, enclosed space where they can hide, feel secure and observe their surroundings without being seen," said Valuska. "On top of that, the texture of cardboard is perfect for biting and scratching, making it fun and engaging for cats to play with."

Playing with your cat is more than just, well, cat's play. It offers a world of exploration, physical activity, mental stimulation and fun that helps your cat stay happy and healthy. Best of all, it's a fantastic way to enjoy screen-free fun with your furry companion.

Learn more about all the tasty options to tempt your feline family member at Friskies.com.

Stock Quote API & Stock News API supplied by www.cloudquote.io
Quotes delayed at least 20 minutes.
By accessing this page, you agree to the following
Privacy Policy and Terms Of Service.