AI & Disability Insurance: APG, AVS, OCAS & Coronavirus Deadline Update

March 25, 2026 Priya Shah – Business Editor Business

A study published in January 2024 explored the use of audience participation fighting games (APGs) and their potential to address psychological challenges, particularly those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers at Ritsumeikan University in Japan and Bangkok University in Thailand investigated how APGs, which blur the lines between viewers and players, can be enhanced through dynamic adjustments to AI character strengths based on audience input – specifically cheering and jeering.

The research, detailed in Heliyon, focuses on the increasing popularity of live-streamed video games and the potential for these platforms to offer social connection. The study, led by Pujana Paliyawan of Ritsumeikan Center for Game Studies and Ruck Thawonmas of Ritsumeikan University’s College of Information Science and Engineering, examined factors influencing user experience and engagement within APGs.

The investigation comes as artificial intelligence continues to play an increasingly prominent role in various sectors, including healthcare and epidemic management, as highlighted by a February 2025 article in Nature. The Nature report, focusing on China’s experience, notes the dualistic role of AI, offering benefits even as simultaneously raising concerns about privacy, security, and autonomy. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the deployment of AI, prompting calls for comprehensive social policies to govern its responsible use.

The Ritsumeikan and Bangkok University study specifically leverages AI to create a more interactive gaming experience. The system allows for real-time modification of AI character abilities based on audience reactions, effectively turning spectators into active participants. This approach builds on the broader trend of integrating AI into gaming, as seen in applications for radiographic COVID-19 detection, though the focus of the current research is on social facilitation and user engagement.

Researchers received the study for review on July 22, 2023, with final acceptance occurring on December 23, 2023. Collection date for the data was January 30, 2024. The study was conducted under a Creative Commons BY 4.0 license, allowing for open access and distribution.

Further research, published in Nature in January 2025, explores the integration of artificial intelligence with mechanistic epidemiological models. This work, presented at the 1st Workshop on Healthcare AI and COVID-19, acknowledges support from A.P.G. And others, indicating ongoing efforts to apply AI to public health challenges.