Search Results (524)

(1) Medical training is changing, especially for surgeons. Virtual reality simulation is an excellent way to train surgeons safely. Studies show that surgeons who train with simulation have demonstrated improved technical skills in fundamental surgical procedures. The purpose of this study is to determine the overall impact of virtual reality training on laparoscopic cholecystectomy performance and to explore whether specific training protocols or the addition of feedback confer any advantages for future surgeons. (2) MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Ovid SP), Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus were searched for the literature related to virtual reality training, immersive simulation, laparoscopic surgical skills training, and medical education. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and NIH Quality Assessment Tool. (3) A total of 55 full-text articles were reviewed. Meta-analysis showed that virtual reality training is an effective method for learning cholecystectomy surgical skills. (4) Conclusions: Performance, measured by objective structured assessments and time to task completion, is improved with virtual reality training compared with no additional training. Positive effects of simulation training were evident in global rating scores and operative time. Continuous feedback on movement parameters during laparoscopic cholecystectomy skills training impacts skills acquisition and long-term retention. Full article

A metasurface capable of flexibly manipulating electromagnetic waves to realize holograms presents significant potential in millimeter-wave imaging systems and data storage domains. In this study, full-space three-dimensional holograms are realized from a reflection–transmission integrated reconfigurable metasurface, which can achieve nearly 360° phase coverage in reflection space and 180° phase coverage in transmission space. By adjusting the voltage applied to the constituting electronically tunable meta-atoms of the metasurface, an octahedron hologram constituted by three hologram images in different focal planes is generated in the reflection space at 6.25 GHz. Moreover, a diamond hologram, also composed of three hologram images in different focal planes, is achieved in the transmission space at 6.75 GHz. Both the numerical simulation and experimental measurement are performed to validate the full-space holograms implemented by the modified weighted Gerchberg–Saxton (WGS) algorithm with specific phase distribution in different imaging planes. The obtained results pave the way for a wide range of new applications, such as next-generation three-dimensional displays for immersive viewing experiences, high-capacity optical communication systems with enhanced data encoding capabilities, and ultra-secure anti-counterfeiting solutions that are extremely difficult to replicate. Full article

Authentic learning opportunities that simulate full-scale design and construction using real materials provide valuable experiential learning environments for construction and civil engineering students by challenging students to apply building concepts in practical settings. These activities challenge students to apply theoretical concepts in a realistic, hands-on context. However, the excessive cost of real building materials required for this mode of education limits access to the vast majority of students. As a result, educational researchers have explored potential alternatives to provide cost-effective experiential learning through activities using mock-up materials (e.g., plastic straws and popsicle sticks) and a simulation of experiences using immersive technologies (e.g., virtual reality or augmented reality). While some of these alternatives approximate the environment and others provide physical interaction with mock-up materials, the lack of authenticity in the building materials used introduces some apparent differences between the “authentic” learning environments and their cost-effective approximations. Therefore, this research aims to identify the learning processes reported by students and faculty who participated in authentic learning experiences to understand the ways in which this mode of education offers unique value to construction education. Their interview responses illustrated characteristics of authentic learning experiences that were believed to be critical to the learning process, some of which included working in groups; interdisciplinary participants; and the use of real construction materials. Although some of these characteristics are intrinsically linked to the use of real materials, others do not explicitly refer to interaction with real materials. This may point to specific aspects of authentic learning that educational researchers can replicate or enhance to provide cost-effective learning environments, such as virtual or augmented reality. The contribution of this paper is in identifying the characteristics of authentic learning experiences that may guide educational investment and research innovations that aim to replicate some of these learning experiences through more accessible learning environments. Full article

This paper presents an integrated methodology for remote monitoring, technical training and early warning systems in virtual reality environments oriented towards Industry 4.0. The proposal incorporates an engine modeled as a digital twin in Unity 3D, connected to physical sensors, and transmitted through an IoT platform. This architecture allows continuous monitoring and immersive visualization, in addition to generating alerts when operating conditions exceed critical limits, allowing users to simulate fault conditions in real time and perform interactive training without putting equipment or operators at risk. This work proposes a low-cost simulation platform, based on virtual reality and real-time digital twins, designed to support training and capacity building in industrial environments. This methodology seeks to propose general guidelines that allow the integration of these technologies in a general way to enrich both preventive and predictive maintenance mechanisms, as well as training processes. Full article

Background: There are very few studies in literature concerning the bonding between 3D-printed resin posts and the core build-up material. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the adhesion of 3D-printed and milled resin posts to composite resin core build-up material following different surface treatments. Methods: Three types of resin posts were utilized in this study: ready-made glass-reinforced fiber post (3M ESPE, Germany), milled PEEK POST (Bredent, Germany), and 3D-printed resin post (CROWNTEC, Saremco Dental AG, Switzerland). Each type of post was categorized into three groups based on surface treatments: C: untreated surfaces; SB: Air abrasion with 50 μm aluminum oxide particles was applied to the posts’ surfaces.; HO: the posts’ surfaces were immersed in 30% H₂O₂ for 5 min. A dual-cured composite resin (Grandio DC; VOCO) was utilized for core build-up in each group to evaluate adhesion through the push-out bond strength test. The modes of failure were analyzed, and the surface morphology of the post was characterized using SEM. Data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) along with Tukey’s test. Results: The two-way ANOVA indicated a significant effect for surface treatment (F = 583.54, p < 001), post type (F = 79.96, p < 0.001), and their interactions (F = 265.74, p < 0.001). Regarding 3D-printed resin post, 30% H₂O₂ for 5 min recorded the highest statistically significant bond strength value (13.11 ± 1.61) compared to other groups. Regarding the milled PEEK post, the air particle abrasion recorded the highest statistically significant value (23.88 ± 1.66) compared to other groups. Adhesive failure was the predominant failure type, with an occurrence rate of 70.35%. Mixed failure was noted in 24.07% of the cases, with a significant prevalence in the PEEK post within the air particle abrasion group (58.3%). Cohesive failure was noted in 5.54% of cases, with a significant prevalence in the air particle abrasion group, occurring at rates of 16.6% in the resin fiber post group and 33.3% in PEEK posts. Conclusions: Air particle abrasion significantly improved the push-out bond strength of milled PEEK posts, but it did not have a similar effect on the 3D-printed resin posts. The application of 30% H₂O₂ for 5 min to 3D-printed resin post enhanced the adhesion to core build-up material. The manufacturing method of posts, the surface treatments utilized, and their interactions affect the interfacial bond strength between posts and the composite resin core build-up material. Full article

The growing number of public one-way and two-way immersion schools (French/German) in the Swiss cantons of Bern, Jura, and Neuchâtel has resulted in an increased need for teachers who are explicitly prepared for those schools. This need led to the thoughtfully conceptualized two-way immersion curriculum “Cursus bilingue/Bilingualer Studiengang,” jointly offered by two universities of teacher education located in the French- and German-speaking areas of Switzerland. This study explores the professionalization process of future primary teachers from Bern, Jura, and the bilingual program who are confronted with professional requirements. A scientific tool, used in a longitudinal perspective (2020–2023), documents how students of the two-way immersion and the French and German programs (n = 1021) weigh these requirements in the competence and challenge dimensions. A linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze their appraisal within each dimension across time and context. Independently of the context, the competence weighting increases for all students between t₁ and t₃. However, the challenge weighting exhibits a peak at t₂ in all contexts, maybe due to the consciousness-raising of faced challenges after half of the program. With teaching internships in two linguistic regions, two-way immersion students demonstrate a capacity for adaptability. Research-based and practitioner-informed implications for an induction program aiming to foster the further professionalization needed to master the new complexities during the career-entry stage are presented. Full article

The pressing need for sustainable construction materials has identified alkali-activated materials (AAMs) as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional Portland cement. This study explores the synergistic performance of alkaline-activated natural pozzolan and limestone powder (AANL) blends against sulfate attack, evaluating mortar specimens immersed in sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, and a combined sulfate solution over 12 months. The samples were synthesized using natural pozzolan (NP) and limestone powder (LSP) in three distinct binder combinations to evaluate the influence of varying precursor ratios on the material’s performance, as follows: NP: LSP = 40:60 (AN₄₀L₆₀), 50:50 (AN₅₀L₅₀), and 60:40 (AN₆₀L₄₀). At the same time, the alkaline activators of 10 M NaOH_(aq) and Na₂SiO_3(aq) were combined in a ratio of 1:1 and cured at 75 °C. The research examines the weight variations of the samples, their residual compressive strength, and microstructural characteristics under exposure to magnesium sulfate, sodium sulfate, and a combined sulfate solution. In terms of weight change, samples exposed to Na₂SO₄ gained weight slightly, with AN₄₀L₆₀ recording the highest gain (3.2%) due to the ingress of sulfate ions and pore filling. Under MgSO₄, AN₆₀L₄₀ had the lowest weight gain (29%), while AN₄₀L₆₀ reached 54%. In mixed sulfate, AN₆₀L₄₀ showed negligible weight gain (0.11%); whereas, AN₅₀L₅₀ and AN₄₀L₆₀ gained 2.43% and 1.81%, respectively. Compressive strength retention after one year indicated that mixes with higher NP content fared better. AN₆₀L₄₀ exhibited the highest residual strength across all solutions—16.12 MPa in Na₂SO₄, 12.5 MPa in MgSO₄, and 19.45 MPa in the mixed solution. Conversely, AN₄₀L₆₀ showed the highest strength degradation, losing 47.22%, 58.11%, and 55.89%, respectively. SEM-EDS and FTIR analyses confirm that LSP’s vulnerability to sulfate attack diminishes with increased NP incorporation, highlighting a synergistic interaction that mitigates degradation and retains structural integrity. The combination of 60% NP and 40% LSP demonstrated superior resistance to all sulfate environments, as evidenced by visual durability, minimized weight gain, and retained compressive strength. This study highlights the potential of tailored NP-LSP combinations in developing durable and sustainable AAMs, paving the way for innovative solutions in sulfate-prone environments, while reducing environmental impact and promoting economic efficiency. Full article

Background: This study evaluated and compared the effects of thermal aging on the color stability and mechanical properties of CAD/CAM polymers utilized for provisional restorations. Material and Methods: Three CAD/CAM polymers in this study: CAD-Temp (CAT), Everest C-Temp (CT), and PEEK (PK). Forty specimens of each material were randomly assigned to two subgroups. Subgroup A was immersed in distilled water for 24 h, whereas Subgroup B was subjected to 5000 thermal cycles. The color stability, flexural strength (FS), survival probability, and microstructures were evaluated following thermal cycling. Data analysis was conducted utilizing two-way ANOVA along with Tukey’s test. Results: The CAT (3.74 ± 0.39) and CT (3.51 ± 0.54) groups exhibited the highest color variations, while PEEK (2.95 ± 0.45) showed the lowest color change. The baseline groups showed that the CT group had the highest flexural strength value (p < 0.05). The flexural strength values of CAT and CT groups significantly decreased (p < 0.05) following thermal cycling. No significant decrease in FS was observed following thermal cycling in the Pk group (p = 0.16). Conclusions: The color measurement and flexural strength outcomes were significantly influenced by CAD/CAM materials and thermal cycling. The CT group demonstrated superior flexural strength compared to the other groups, both before and after thermal cycling. The PK group shows the lowest color change compared to other groups. Regardless of aging condition, C-Temp and PEEK materials recorded the highest survival probability, a 95% significance level compared to CAD-Temp. Full article

Recent advancements in generative neural networks, particularly transformer-based models, have introduced novel possibilities for sound design. This study explores the use of generative pre-trained transformers (GPT) to create complex, multilayered soundscapes from textual and visual prompts. A custom pipeline is proposed, featuring modules for converting the source input into structured sound descriptions and subsequently generating cohesive auditory outputs. As a complementary solution, a granular synthesizer prototype was developed to enhance the usability of generative audio samples by enabling their recombination into seamless and non-repetitive soundscapes. The integration of GPT models with granular synthesis demonstrates significant potential for innovative audio production, paving the way for advancements in professional sound-design workflows and immersive audio applications. Full article

In line with the research objectives of the SCORPiò-NIDI project, we aim to implement a software platform showcasing the digital models developed during the project. The goal is to develop dynamic and interactive user experiences, expanding access to cultural heritage through digital means, which become spaces for engaging and educational experiences. Using open-source frameworks, users can explore the complexity of Roman siege machines in an immersive way, interacting directly with the digital models. We will focus on the 3D model of the scorpion created by Dr. Claudio Formicola (University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli), using the 3D modeling software Rhinoceros. Full article

This study investigates the influence of experiential programs (EPs) on enhancing consumer experience offerings at luxury resorts. EPs encompass a variety of activities, amenities, and services designed to immerse consumers in the local culture, scenery, and authenticity. The research focuses explicitly on EPs related to fitness, evening entertainment, children’s activities, and personalized experiences. By analyzing data from 30 resorts, significant trends and typologies within each category of EP emerged, highlighting the diverse ways in which resorts meet consumers’ desires for immersive and status-enhancing experiences. Valuable insights were gained through semi-structured interviews with two hoteliers, providing a deeper understanding of the strategic integration of EPs. Fitness EPs highlight activities, including hiking and yoga, whereas evening entertainment encompasses experiences like mixology, music, and astronomy education. For children, EPs prioritize cultural immersion through hands-on experiences, while personalized EPs—including romance packages and private dining—allow for consumer exclusivity. The research underscores how these EPs align with contemporary trends in conspicuous consumption, where luxury resorts leverage unique, high-quality, and culturally rich experiences to reinforce affluence and societal standing. The findings emphasize that EPs are a vital strategy for luxury resorts to differentiate themselves in a competitive market, enhancing consumer satisfaction, loyalty, and positive self-image. Full article

Immersive tools are being adopted as an alternative to traditional education methods, especially in engineering curricula, where it is common to integrate various disciplines such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of immersive tools and serious games in improving student engagement and knowledge retention in engineering education. This study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, analyzing 31 articles published between 2020 and 2025 across four databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Dimensions, and ScienceDirect). Articles were included if they complied with the following inclusion criteria: using (any) immersive tools, carrying out evaluation methods, and participation of students in STEM-related engineering courses. The data extracted encompassed sample characteristics, game attributes, evaluation methods, and results. The findings suggest that immersive tools positively impact students’ engagement and motivation. However, challenges such as potential motion sickness, complexity of serious games (SGs), and high implementation costs exist. SG design must balance engagement, immersion and pedagogical effectiveness to ensure viability. Future research should assess long-term impacts and promote methodological consistency across studies, particularly in subject areas and sample demographics, while determining a way to reduce motion sickness and alleviating SG complexity and difficulty. Full article

Background: Prophylactic polishing pastes (PPPs) are widely used to clean teeth and dental restorations; however, their effects on restorative materials are crucial for clinical outcomes. This study investigates the impact of PPPs on the susceptibility of CAD/CAM restorative materials to staining and the relationship between surface roughness and discoloration. Methods: Samples of tested materials (resin nanoceramic, hybrid ceramic, feldspathic ceramic, and lithium disilicate-reinforced glass ceramic) were treated with various PPPs (Cleanic, CleanJoy, Detartrine, Proxyt). Surface roughness and color parameters were recorded before and after the PPP application and following coffee immersion for 12 days. Initial measurements of surface roughness (Ra1) and color were taken. The specimens were divided into groups based on the PPP applied. After PPP application, secondary roughness (Ra2) and color values were measured. Changes in roughness (ΔRa), color (ΔE*ab, ΔE00), and whiteness index (ΔWID) were calculated post-application and after coffee immersion. Data normality was tested with the Shapiro–Wilks test. Two-way ANOVA evaluated the effects of material type and PPP on ΔE, ΔWID, and ΔRa. One-way ANOVA, Tukey HDS test, and Pearson correlation were used for further analysis, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The Vita Enamic–Detartrine group showed the highest ΔEab 1 and ΔE001 values, while Cerasmart–control showed the lowest. The Vita Enamic–Proxyt group had the lowest ΔWID1, and Vita Enamic–Cleanjoy exhibited the highest values of ΔEab 2, ΔE002, and ΔWID2. The E.MAX–control group had the lowest values for these metrics. No significant correlation was found between ΔRa and color changes (ΔE*ab 2, ΔE002, ΔWID2); however, a moderate positive correlation was found between values of ΔE1 and ΔE2. Conclusions: These findings indicate that PPPs significantly affect the discoloration and surface features of CAD/CAM materials, with both types of PPPs and materials. Full article

Exploratory listening encompasses the various ways, contexts, and levels of attention with which listeners engage with their sonic environment. This paper presents findings from qualitative research conducted with audience members during the Stardew Valley: Festival of Seasons concert tour. During these events, attendees encountered music from the widely successful indie video game, reorchestrated in a new context. Just as the game encourages exploration through open-ended gameplay, the concerts prompt listeners to explore how the rearranged music refers to and diverges from its use in the game. Findings suggest that attendees deployed their attention to divergent aspects of the music. While some attendees focused on specific musical aspects like recognizable melodies and instrumentation, others focused on the broader audiovisual and community aspects of the performance. Results also indicate that highly immersed listeners experience diverse thoughts, including those not directly about the immediate musical content. Positioning music-evoked imaginings as a way listeners become immersed in musical experiences, we report on how exploratory listening shapes the dynamics of attention, immersion, and enjoyment within musical and audiovisual contexts. Full article

LiFePO₄ (LFP) batteries are among the earliest commercialized and most discarded lithium-ion batteries. Although existing recovery technologies focus on the conversion of LiFePO₄ to Li₂CO₃, challenges associated with achieving near-full recovery and high-value products remain. This study proposes a strategy for the conversion of spent LiFePO₄ to LiF by mechanical chlorination coupled with a fluorination reaction. The optimum conditions were determined to be a ball-to-powder ratio (BPR) = 15, NH₄Cl:LFP = 3, H₂O₂ = 2.0 mL, rotation speed = 600 rpm, and grinding time = 12 h. Results showed that 97.14% Li was converted into LiCl by H₂O₂–NH₄Cl mechanical chlorination. When chlorinated intermediates were immersed in water, FePO₄ could be harvested, and 96.79% Li could be recovered as LiF with a purity of 99.50% after adding NH₄F. When Cl-functionalized renewable resin was used to exchange 99.89% F⁻, 0.63 g NH₄Cl per litre of LiF conversion residual liquid was derived. The favourable results were attributed to the ¹O₂ generated by H₂O₂, which had a strong electron affinity to break Li–O bonds and provided superior conditions for the combination of Li and Cl. During fluorination, the formation of LiF reduced the ion concentration, and the entropy decreased, contributing to the spontaneous reaction. Therefore, the proposed method paves the way for near-full recovery and high-value products of spent LiFePO₄. Full article