Search Results (4,668)

Emerging technologies offer cultural institutions opportunities to expand their audiences and make their content more accessible. Augmented Virtuality (AV), which integrates real-world content into virtual environments, shows particular potential. It enables the transmission of live or pre-recorded stage performances, such as concerts and theater productions, from the stage to virtual audiences via increasingly affordable head-mounted displays (HMDs). However, as AV remains under-researched, little is known about which recording features enable an immersive user experience while maintaining cost-efficiency—an essential requirement for resource-constrained cultural institutions. In this context, we investigate the influence of features of audio and video recordings on key dimensions of user experience in the use case of a real opera performance integrated into a virtual opera house. We conducted a 2 × 2 within-subjects study with 30 participants to measure the effects of 2D versus 3D videos and stereophonic versus spatial audio rendering on several key dimensions of user experience. The results show that spatial audio has a positive impact on Place Illusion, whereas video dimensionality had no significant effect. Recommendations for the design of AV applications are derived from study results, aiming at balancing immersive user experience and cost-efficiency for virtual cultural participation. Full article

Rapid urbanization and spatial constraints in high-density residential areas pose significant challenges to public health and well-being. This study investigates the mechanisms by which the visual environment of urban micro public spaces shapes residents’ psychophysiological responses to encourage spontaneous physical activity and advance active health. Using machine learning and 11-based semantic segmentation, 9 core visual elements across 20 micro public space scenes in high-density urban neighborhoods were quantified. An immersive virtual reality (VR) experiment was conducted, collecting synchronized multimodal psychophysiological data from 60 participants, which yielded 600 valid observations. Through an analytical framework combining Self-Organizing Map (SOM) clustering and Random Forest (RF) modeling, three distinct functional archetypes were identified: Restoration-Supporting, Activity-Promoting, and Stress-Inducing. The Activity-Promoting archetype was most effective in fostering spontaneous activity intention, characterized by a high proportion of activity areas, a moderate sky view factor, and minimal physical barriers. RF modeling further pinpointed pedestrian density, activity area ratio, and green space ratio as key visual drivers of health-promoting outcomes. Based on these findings, a “Visual Activation for Active Health” framework is proposed. It posits that moderate visual-environmental stimulation is the core mechanism for transforming passive spaces into health-promotive settings, thereby establishing a theoretical foundation for the evidence-based design of healthy and sustainable urban environments. Full article

Recognizing emotions accurately in virtual reality (VR) enables adaptive and personalized experiences across gaming, therapy, and other domains. However, most existing facial emotion recognition models rely on acted expressions collected under controlled settings, which differ substantially from the spontaneous and subtle emotions that arise during real VR experiences. To address this challenge, the objective of this study is to develop and evaluate generalizable emotion recognition models that jointly learn from both acted and natural facial expressions in virtual reality. We integrate two complementary datasets collected using the Meta Quest Pro headset, one capturing natural emotional reactions and another containing acted expressions. We evaluate multiple model architectures, including convolutional and domain-adversarial networks, and a mixture-of-experts model that separates natural and acted expressions. Our experiments show that models trained jointly on acted and natural data achieve stronger cross-domain generalization. In particular, the domain-adversarial and mixture-of-experts configurations yield the highest accuracy on natural and mixed-emotion evaluations. Analysis of facial action units (AUs) reveals that natural and acted emotions rely on partially distinct AU patterns, while generalizable models learn a shared representation that integrates salient AUs from both domains. These findings demonstrate that bridging acted and natural expression domains can enable more accurate and robust VR emotion recognition systems. Full article

Extended reality (XR), encompassing virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), is rapidly reshaping the landscape of digital interaction and immersive communication. As XR evolves toward ultra-realistic, real-time, and interactive experiences, it places unprecedented demands on wireless communication systems in terms of bandwidth, latency, and reliability. Conventional RF-based networks, constrained by limited spectrum and interference, struggle to meet these stringent requirements. In contrast, visible light communication (VLC) offers a compelling alternative by exploiting the vast unregulated visible spectrum to deliver high-speed, low-latency, and interference-free data transmission—making it particularly suitable for future XR environments. This paper presents a comprehensive survey on VLC-enabled XR communication systems. We first analyze XR technologies and their diverse quality-of-service (QoS) and quality-of-experience (QoE) requirements, identifying the unique challenges posed to existing wireless infrastructures. Building upon this, we explore the fundamentals, characteristics, and opportunities of VLC systems in supporting immersive XR applications. Furthermore, we elaborate on the key enabling techniques that empower VLC to fulfill XR’s stringent demands, including high-speed transmission technologies, hybrid VLC-RF architectures, dynamic beam control, and visible light sensing capabilities. Finally, we discuss future research directions, emphasizing AI-assisted network intelligence, cross-layer optimization, and collaborative multi-element transmission frameworks as vital enablers for the next-generation VLC–XR ecosystem. Full article

Digital technologies have been widely adopted in the Cultural Heritage sector over the past few decades. Many museums, galleries, historic sites, and other cultural institutions now host multimedia exhibitions or temporary installations in which technology plays a significant role in shaping the visitor experience. Among these, Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), have been extensively applied and studied. Spatial Augmented Reality (SAR), a branch of AR, has also become increasingly present in cultural contexts; however, the academic literature still lacks a comprehensive and systematic review of studies addressing its use. Furthermore, various methods of inquiry and evaluation have been employed to assess SAR applications in cultural institutions, both from the perspective of visitors and from that of cultural practitioners and stakeholders. This scoping review, conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, collected a total of 47 papers that introduce the academic perspectives on SAR in the cultural domain. It reports its definitions, applications, documented benefits, and the different evaluation approaches identified in the literature. Through a snowball sampling methodology, the collection has been expanded to include 33 additional studies. After the screening process, the authors reviewed 34 papers, presenting the gaps identified in the literature and outlining suggested directions for future research. Full article

In the last decade, the interdisciplinary field of neuroarchitecture has grown significantly, revealing measurable links between architectural features and human neural processing. This review synthesizes current research at the nexus of neuroscience and architecture, with a focus on how emerging virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are being utilized to understand and enhance human spatial experience. We systematically reviewed literature from 2015 to 2025, identifying key empirical studies and categorizing advances into three themes: core components of neuroarchitectural research; the use of physiological sensors (e.g., EEG, heart rate variability) and virtual reality to gather data on occupant responses; and the integration of neuroscience with AI-driven analysis. Findings indicate that built environment elements (e.g., geometry, curvature, lighting) influence brain activity in regions governing emotion, stress, and cognition. VR-based experiments combined with neuroimaging and physiological measures enable ecologically valid, fine-grained analysis of these effects, while AI techniques facilitate real-time emotion recognition and large-scale pattern discovery, bridging design features with occupant emotional responses. However, the current evidence base remains nascent, limited by small, homogeneous samples and fragmented data. We propose a four-domain framework (somatic, psychological, emotional, cognitive-“SPEC”) to guide future research. By consolidating methodological advances in VR experimentation, physiological sensing, and AI-based analytics, this review provides an integrative roadmap for replicable and scalable neuroarchitectural studies. Intensified interdisciplinary efforts leveraging AI and VR are needed to build robust, diverse datasets and develop neuro-informed design tools. Such progress will pave the way for evidence-based design practices that promote human well-being and cognitive health in built environments. Full article

Queuing is almost inevitable in tourist service experiences, but most tourists are reluctant to wait. Drawing on prospect theory, this study examined how comparative framing influences tourists’ waiting intention. Across three scenario-based experiments, the research found that, compared with non-comparative framing, comparative framing can effectively enhance tourists’ waiting intention. Perceived waiting costs play a mediating role in the impact of the comparative framing on waiting intention. Additionally, the queuing settings play a moderating role, and the mediating effect is stronger in physical queues than in virtual queues. This research shifts the analytical focus from objective waiting time to the framing of waiting-time information, reveals a psychological cost assessment mechanism based on reference points, and enriches the theoretical explanation of tourists’ immediate decision-making in tourism services. It also provides practical references for optimizing service information and queue management during peak hours. Full article

Based on the discrete element method (DEM), a sand particle contact force model and a motion model for the 3D sand printing (3DSP) process were developed. By accounting for the viscous support force and contact force between sand particles, and gravity acting on each individual sand particle, the displacement of sand particles was calculated, enabling the simulation of the 3DSP process using sand particle ensembles. Furthermore, the effects of the ratio of silica sand to ceramsite sand and the recoating speed on sand-recoating performances and mechanical properties were investigated. Irregularly shaped sand particles (primarily silica sand) were constructed via the multi-sphere filling method. The simulation was performed on a virtual sand-recoating device (180 mm in length, 100 mm in width, 70 mm in height) with reference to the EXONE S-MAX printer. Meanwhile, the EXONE S-MAX was utilized to print the bending samples for experimental validation. Simulation and experimental results indicate that as the ratio increases, the porosity first decreases and then increases, whereas mechanical properties exhibit an initial increase followed by a decrease. At a ratio of 3:7, the porosity reaches a minimum of 21.3%; correspondingly, the shear force of bonding bridges peaks at 908 mN, and the bending strength of specimens attains a maximum of 2.87 MPa. With the increasing recoating speed, the porosity rises consistently, while the shear force of bonding bridges and the bending strength of specimens first increase and then decrease, which is primarily attributed to the penetration behavior of the binder under capillary force. At a recoating speed of 160 mm·s⁻¹, the shear force of bonding bridges reaches its maximum, and the specimens achieve a maximum bending strength of 2.89 MPa. The simulation results are well-validated by the experiments. The DEM-based simulation method proposed in this study offers a practical and convenient tool for parameter optimization in 3DSP process. Full article

This systematic integrative review examines methodological frameworks used to evaluate educational technologies in biomedical higher education. We synthesize five complementary approaches frequently reported in the literature: the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the System Usability Scale (SUS), Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), and the ARCS motivational model. Each framework addresses distinct but interrelated dimensions of evaluation, including technology acceptance and intention to use, perceived usability and user experience, technological maturity and implementation risk, and learner motivation. Drawing on representative studies in e-learning platforms, virtual and extended reality environments, and clinical simulation, we discuss the strengths, limitations, and common pitfalls of applying these models in isolation. Based on this synthesis, we propose a pragmatic, multi-phase evaluation workflow that aligns usability, acceptance, motivation, and technological maturity across different stages of educational technology development and adoption. Finally, we outline exploratory future perspectives on how existing evaluation models might need to evolve to address emerging AI-driven, immersive, and haptic technologies in biomedical education. This abstract was prepared in accordance with PRISMA 2020 for Abstracts, ensuring structured reporting and transparency. Full article

Glutamine synthetase, a critical enzyme catalyzing the conversion of glutamate and ammonia into glutamine, has been shown to influence sperm development in mammals. Here, we carried out functional analysis of Bombyx mori homolog of glutamine synthetase 1 (BmGS1) and screened its small-molecule inhibitor. RT-PCR and qPCR showed that BmGS1 was specifically expressed in the testis of the silkworm, with the highest expression in the moth stage. Subcellular localization revealed that the BmGS1 protein was localized in mitochondria and cytoplasm. Identification of upstream regulatory factors revealed that the expression of BmGS1 is positively regulated by the sex-related transcription factor Bmdsx. Virtual screening, molecular docking and MD simulations showed that the small molecule Ethylhexyl triazone (ET), as well as the known GS inhibitor L-Methionine -DL-sulfoximine (MSX), could be stably bound to BmGS1. Subsequently, site-specific mutation and fluorescence binding assays revealed that the putative key sites of ET binding to the protein were E79 and R265, and the putative key sites of MSX binding to the protein were E81, R245, and R286. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that inhibitor treatment significantly attenuated BmGS1 enzymatic activity. Inhibitor-injected silkworms showed reduced fertilization rates compared to control groups. Our findings raise BmGS1 as a potential target for silkworm sterility. Full article

Digital technology has facilitated substantial progress in the development and implementation of virtual museums. Despite these advancements, current virtual museums continue to face challenges in spatial layout and information presentation, including limited exhibit hierarchy, inefficient spatial organization, low information display efficiency, and sub-optimal visual experiences. To address these challenges, spatial intelligence algorithms are utilized to reconstruct three-dimensional models of selected cultural relics for scene creation and to optimize the spatial layout of virtual museum exhibits. The layout optimization approach considers both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements, as well as visual hierarchy and information density. This approach aims to establish a more complex exhibit hierarchy, rational spatial organization, and enhanced visual information display. Comparative experiments and analyses of the visual impact from symmetrical layout optimization, along with other spatial layout optimizations, are conducted. User evaluations and eye-tracking experiments indicate that spatial intelligence-optimized algorithms improve both spatial layout and information display in virtual museums, leading to a more positive user visual experience. Full article

Background: Orbital dermoid cysts are common benign lesions; however, deep-seated or recurrent lesions near the orbital apex pose major surgical challenges due to their proximity to critical neurovascular structures. Lateral orbitotomy remains the reference approach, but accurate osteotomies and stable reconstruction can be difficult to achieve using conventional techniques. This study reports our initial experience using a fully digital, hospital-based point-of-care (POC) workflow to enhance precision and safety in complex orbital dermoid cyst surgery. Methods: We present a case series of three patients with orbital dermoid cysts treated at a tertiary center (2024–2025) using a comprehensive digital workflow. Preoperative assessment included CT and/or MRI followed by virtual surgical planning (VSP) with orbit–tumor segmentation and 3D modeling. Cutting guides and patient-specific implants (PSIs) were manufactured in-house under a certified hospital-based POC protocol. Surgical strategies were tailored to each lesion and included piezoelectric osteotomy, intraoperative navigation, intraoperative CT, and structured-light scanning when indicated. Results: Complete en bloc resection was achieved in all cases without capsular rupture or optic nerve injury. Intraoperative CT confirmed complete lesion removal and accurate PSI positioning and fitting. Structured-light scanning enabled radiation-free postoperative monitoring when used. All patients preserved full ocular motility, visual acuity, and facial symmetry, with no complications or recurrences during follow-up. Conclusions: The integration of VSP, in-house POC manufacturing, and image-guided surgery within a lateral orbitotomy approach provides a reproducible and fully integrated workflow. This strategy appears to improve surgical precision and safety while supporting optimal long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes in challenging orbital dermoid cyst cases. Full article

With the continuous development of global intelligent shipping technology, in fields such as virtual testing of intelligent ships and crew training and assessment, there is an urgent need for a highly realistic model to reproduce the driver’s bumpy feeling of ship drivers. Due to the limited travel of the six-degree-of-freedom platform, the platform is unable to provide continuous acceleration during the simulation of the driver’s body sensation in the three degrees of freedom of the ship, namely, sway, surge, and yaw. To overcome the above problems, a six-degree-of-freedom motion model of ships is constructed under low sea conditions based on the MMG-separated ship motion model and the FFT wave simulation method. Secondly, the otolith model and the semicircular canal model are introduced to establish a human body perception deception mechanism. The gravity is transferred by using the deflection angles of roll and pitch to extend the acceleration sensation in the three degrees of freedom of sway, surge, and yaw. Finally, through the real ship rotation and Z-shaped test experiments, the simulation trajectory, real ship attitude, and platform motion data are compared to verify the effectiveness of the established method. To simplify the research, under the low sea conditions where the three degrees of freedom of heave, roll, and pitch are ignored, the virtual ship simulation trajectory based on the above method is basically consistent with the real ship, and the correlation between the platform and the real ship body-sensing data is at least 81.2%. Through scoring the simulation driving body-sensing reproduction experience, it is proven that the above method can achieve a better body-sensing reproduction effect on the six-degree-of-freedom platform. Full article

Workers with upper-limb disabilities face difficulties in performing manufacturing tasks requiring fine manipulation, stable handling, and multistep procedural understanding. To address these limitations, this paper presents an integrated collaborative workcell designed to support disability-inclusive manufacturing. The system comprises four core modules: a JSON-based collaboration database that structures manufacturing processes into robot–human cooperative units; a projection-based augmented reality (AR) interface that provides spatially aligned task guidance and virtual interaction elements; a multimodal interaction channel combining gesture tracking with speech and language-based communication; and a personalization mechanism that enables users to adjust robot behaviors—such as delivery poses and user-driven task role switching—which are then stored for future operations. The system is implemented using ROS-style modular nodes with an external WPF-based projection module and evaluated through scenario-based experiments involving workers with upper-limb impairments. The experimental scenarios illustrate that the proposed workcell is capable of supporting step transitions, part handover, contextual feedback, and user-preference adaptation within a unified system framework, suggesting its feasibility as an integrated foundation for disability-inclusive human–robot collaboration in manufacturing environments. Full article

Precise 3D perception is critical for indoor robotics, augmented reality, and autonomous navigation. However, existing multi-frame depth estimation methods often suffer from significant performance degradation in challenging indoor scenarios characterized by weak textures, non-Lambertian surfaces, and complex layouts. To address these limitations, we propose MonoPrior-Fusion (MPF), a novel framework that integrates pixel-wise monocular priors directly into the multi-view matching process. Specifically, MPF modulates cost-volume hypotheses to disambiguate matches and employs a hierarchical fusion architecture across multiple scales to propagate global and local geometric information. Additionally, a geometric consistency loss based on virtual planes is introduced to enhance global 3D coherence. Extensive experiments on ScanNetV2, 7Scenes, TUM RGB-D, and GMU Kitchens demonstrate that MPF achieves significant improvements over state-of-the-art multi-frame baselines and generalizes well across unseen domains. Furthermore, MPF yields more accurate and complete 3D reconstructions when integrated into a volumetric fusion pipeline, proving its effectiveness for dense mapping tasks. The source code will be made publicly available to support reproducibility and future research. Full article