Search Results (2,734)

Virtual Field Trips (VFTs) have emerged as an alternative to Traditional Field Trips (TFTs), addressing logistical, financial, and accessibility constraints in geoscience education. This study presents a comparative analysis of the educational impact of a VFT and a TFT implemented with the same 10th-grade class in a Portuguese secondary school. The VFT, focused on volcanism and its socioeconomic impacts, used Google Earth to explore the island of São Miguel in the Azores. The TFT, centred on the rock cycle, was conducted at the Lavadores Beach geological site. Both interventions followed the field-based learning model by Orion and were structured around three phases: preparation, field trip (virtual or traditional), and post-activity synthesis. Data was collected through diagnostic tests, schematization, observation grids, student reports (snapshot), group projects, and written responses to a fieldwork guide recorded on Padlet during the VFT and TFT. The results showed that both VFTs and TFTs enhance conceptual understanding and student engagement, though they foster different skills: VFTs strengthen digital literacy, improve accessibility and inclusion for students with mobility or geographic constraints, allow for content revisitation, foster collaboration among students, integrate multimedia resources, and enable virtual exploration of remote locations that would otherwise be inaccessible. They also offer reduced costs, greater scheduling flexibility, and allow for individualised pacing of student learning. In contrast, TFTs provide richer sensory and practical experiences that are essential for hands-on scientific inquiry and foster stronger connections with the natural environment. The study concludes that a complementary use of both strategies offers the most inclusive and effective approach to teaching geosciences. Full article

Swarm coverage by unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) is essential for inspection, environmental monitoring, and search operations, but remains challenging in three-dimensional domains under limited sensing and communication. Pheromone-based stigmergic coordination provides a low-bandwidth alternative to explicit communication, yet conventional single-field models are susceptible to depth-dependent sensing inconsistencies and multi-source signal interference. This paper introduces a dual-trail stigmergic coordination framework in which a virtual pheromone field encodes short-term motion cues while an auxiliary coverage trail records the accumulated exploration effort. UUV motion is guided by the combined gradients of these two fields, enabling more consistent behavior across depth layers and mitigating ambiguities caused by overlapping pheromone sources. At the macroscopic level, swarm evolution is modeled by a coupled system of partial differential equations (PDEs) describing vehicle density, pheromone concentration, and coverage trail. A Lyapunov functional is constructed to derive sufficient conditions under which perturbations around the uniform coverage equilibrium decay exponentially. Numerical simulations in three-dimensional underwater domains demonstrate that the proposed framework reduces coverage holes, limits redundant overlap, and improves robustness with respect to a single-pheromone baseline and a potential-field-based controller. These results indicate that dual-field stigmergic control is a promising and scalable approach for UUV coverage in constrained underwater environments. Full article

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of mobile network softwarization, emphasizing the technological foundations and its transformative impact on the energy efficiency of modern and future mobile networks. In the paper, a detailed analysis of communication concepts known as software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) is presented, with a description of their architectural principles, operational mechanisms, and the associated interfaces and management frameworks that enable programmability, virtualization, and centralized control in modern mobile networks. The study further explores the role of cloud computing, virtualization platforms, distributed SDN controllers, and resource orchestration systems, outlining how they collectively support mobile network scalability, automation, and service agility. To assess the maturity and evolution of mobile network softwarization, the paper reviews contemporary research directions, including SDN security, machine-learning-assisted traffic management, dynamic service function chaining, virtual network function (VNF) placement and migration, blockchain-based trust mechanisms, and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled self-optimization. The analysis also evaluates the relationship between mobile network softwarization and energy consumption, presenting the main SDN- and NFV-based techniques that contribute to reducing mobile network power usage, such as traffic-aware control, rule placement optimization, end-host-aware strategies, VNF consolidation, and dynamic resource scaling. Findings indicate that although fifth-generation (5G) mobile network standalone deployments capable of fully exploiting softwarization remain limited, softwarized SDN/NFV-based architectures provide measurable benefits in reducing network operational costs and improving energy efficiency, especially when combined with AI-driven automation. The paper concludes that mobile network softwarization represents an essential enabler for sustainable 5G and future beyond-5G systems, while highlighting the need for continued research into scalable automation, interoperable architectures, and energy-efficient softwarized network designs. Full article

A cultural heritage augmented reality system overlays virtual information onto real-world heritage sites, enabling intuitive exploration and interpretation with spatial and temporal contexts. This study presents the design and implementation of a cognitive Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) system that integrates KCHDM-based ontologies with large language models (LLMs) to facilitate intelligent exploration of urban heritage. While conventional AR guides often rely on static data, our system introduces a Semantic Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) pipeline anchored in a structured knowledge base modeled after the Korean Cultural Heritage Data Model (KCHDM). This architecture enables the LLM to perform dynamic contextual reasoning, transforming heritage data into adaptive question-answering (Q&A) and interactive knowledge-testing quizzes that are precisely grounded in both historical and spatial contexts. The system supports on-site AR exploration and map-based remote exploration to ensure robust usability and precise spatial alignment of virtual content. To deliver a rich, multisensory experience, the system provides multimodal outputs, integrating text, images, models, and audio narration. Furthermore, the integration of a knowledge sharing repository allows users to review and learn from others’ inquires. This ontology-driven LLM-integrated MAR design enhances semantic accuracy and contextual relevance, demonstrating the potential of MAR for socially enriched urban heritage experiences. Full article

Virtual streamers (VSs) and virtual live streaming rooms (VLSRs) are increasingly being utilized in live-streaming commerce. However, consumer purchase resistance in VLSRs remains a salient issue. Grounded in the expectation disconfirmation theory and the product uncertainty perspective, this study adopts a multi-method approach to explore the mechanisms underlying purchase resistance in VLSRs and identify actionable mitigation strategies. Specifically, Study 1 employs a questionnaire survey to examine how negative VS anthropomorphism disconfirmation (NVAD) influences consumer purchase resistance in VLSRs. Study 2 utilizes an experiment to investigate the effectiveness of service guarantees in reducing consumers’ purchase resistance intentions. The results indicate that NVAD impacts consumers purchase resistance in VLSRs via direct dissatisfaction and the chain mediation of perceived product fit uncertainty and dissatisfaction; for consumers with a higher need for interaction with a service employee, the positive relationship between NVAD and dissatisfaction with VLSRs will be stronger; service guarantees can reduce consumers’ resistance. This study enriches the literature on human–AI interaction in VLSRs, consumer resistance behaviors, the expectation disconfirmation theory, product uncertainty, and service guarantees, providing empirical insights for retailers to mitigate consumers purchase resistance in VLSRs. Full article

Although conventional lectures can provide a wide range of information to a large group of people, maintaining attention and ensuring knowledge transfer can be a challenge. Therefore, it is important to look for new, engaging, and effective approaches. This pilot feasibility study explores the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) in increasing student engagement and knowledge transfer during lectures in the field of supply chain logistics and inventory selection systems. An educational VR game was developed through the systematic design of application logic, the creation of 3D assets, the construction of virtual scenes, and the implementation of gameplay. The application simulates three inventory picking methods: conventional selection, Pick by Light, and Pick by Vision systems. A total of 22 master’s students participated in the pilot study. They tested three different versions of the VR game, compared the time they needed to complete it, and participated in a guided discussion and questionnaire. The preliminary student reports indicated that students felt more engaged in the learning process and reported a perceived higher engagement with inventory picking systems compared to the traditional lecture format. On the other hand, participants mentioned concerns about nausea and the unavailability of VR headsets. The pilot results indicate that VR shows potential as an educational tool for teaching industrial logistics because it transforms the typical classroom environment into a more active and playful one, leading to a more natural understanding of the subject. Full article

This perspective paper aims to set the stage for current development in the field of energy consumption and environmental impacts in two major digital industries: cryptocurrency mining and artificial intelligence (AI). To better understand current developments, this paper uses a comparative analytical framework of life-cycle assessment principles and high-resolution grid modeling to explore the energy impacts from academic and industry data. On the one hand, while both sectors convert energy into digital value, they operate according to completely different logics, in the sense that cryptocurrencies rely on specialized hardware (application-specific integrated circuits) and seek cheap energy, where they can function as “virtual batteries” for the network, quickly shutting down at peak times, with increasing hardware efficiency. On the other hand, AI is a much more rigid emerging energy consumer, in the sense that it needs high-quality, uninterrupted energy and advanced infrastructure for high-performance Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). The training and inference stages generate massive consumption, difficult to quantify, and AI data centers put great pressure on the electricity grid. In this sense, the transition from mining to AI is limited due to differences in infrastructure, with the only reusable advantage being access to electrical capacity. Regarding competition between the two industries, this dynamic can fragment the energy grid, as AI tends to monopolize quality energy, and how states will manage this imbalance will influence the energy and digital security of the next decade. Full article

Grounded in Social Impact Theory, this study examines the effects of virtual experiences generated by Mere Virtual Presence (MVP), Mere Virtual Presence with Product Experience (MVPE), and pure brand websites on consumers’ brand attitudes and purchase intentions. Additionally, it explores the moderating roles of Consumers’ Need for Uniqueness (CNFU) and product type (search vs. experience products). This study adopts an experimental design with three brand website types (MVP brand communities, MVPE brand communities, and pure brand websites) and two product types to examine the hypothesis. Specifically, a 3 (brand website type) × 2 (product type) experimental design was implemented to examine the influence of brand website types across different scenarios of online marketing. The findings reveal significant insights into consumer brand marketing. Specifically, consumers with low CNFU exhibited higher brand attitudes and purchase intentions compared to those with high CNFU when engaging with search products in MVPE brand communities Furthermore, fan avatars within a virtual brand community can still influence consumer perceptions even without direct interaction. These insights contribute to the growing body of research on personalized marketing and offer practical strategies for leveraging eWOM to enhance consumer engagement and influence decision-making in the digital landscape. Full article

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide, and new technologies such as Fully Immersive Virtual Reality (FIVR) are being explored to promote functional recovery as well as optimize rehabilitation outcomes. The aim of the present study was to explore Greek OTs’ perspectives on the use of FIVR in rehabilitation of the upper limb after stroke. Two focus groups took place with six experienced OTs, who were recruited from diverse clinical settings across Greece. The interviews were facilitated using a semi-structured guide and inductively coded using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-stage process. Six theme-rich findings were elicited. Therapists identified FIVR’s potential to enable patient involvement, motivation, and recovery of function through the use of immersion and feedback-based practice. They reported significant barriers, however, in terms of technical challenges, safety issues, and costly equipment. OTs also highlighted the fact that occupation-based, culturally sensitive task design is central to ensuring ecological validity and transfer to naturalistic settings. There is a high potential for FIVR in stroke rehabilitation, but it requires user-centered design, cultural adaptation, adequate training, and systemic support towards long-term implementation. Full article

This study presents the on-site public evaluation of Notre-Dame Whispers, a geolocated audio-guided tour that explores the sonic history of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. The experience combines binaural reproduction, embodied storytelling, and historically informed soundscapes to immerse visitors in the cathedral’s past auditory environments. Drawing on virtually recreated acoustics, it reconstructs key components of Notre-Dame’s sound heritage, including the medieval construction site, early polyphonic chant, and the contemporary urban soundscape. An on-site evaluation was conducted to assess visitor engagement, usability, and the perceived authenticity of the reconstructed soundscapes. A mixed-methods approach integrated questionnaire responses, semi-structured interviews, and anonymized user analytics collected through the mobile application. Results indicate a high level of immersion, with participants particularly valuing the spatialised audio design and narrative depth. However, challenges were identified regarding GPS-based triggering reliability and the difficulty of situational interpretation in complex spatial environments. These findings offer insights into public reception of immersive heritage audio experiences and inform future developments in digital cultural mediation. Full article

Although metaverse model houses have recently emerged as an interactive alternative to traditional housing marketing tools, empirical research addressing users’ experiences within these environments remains limited. This study aimed to examine how three dimensions of user experience (UX)—operational, sensory, and exploratory—affect user satisfaction and behavioral intentions in metaverse model houses. A total of 83 participants explored a metaverse model house using a tablet PC and completed a questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that exploratory experience significantly influenced user satisfaction, while sensory experience was positively associated with all behavioral intentions, including the intention to revisit, recommend, reside, and purchase. These findings advance our understanding of UX in virtual housing environments and highlight the importance of immersive and exploratory elements in designing effective metaverse model houses. The results offer practical implications for improving digital housing marketing strategies and guiding the future development of metaverse-based architectural platforms. Full article

This contribution presents an integrated methodological pipeline for digital documentation and virtual reconstruction of large-scale urban archaeological excavations, developed through the Amba Aradam case study (Metro C line, Rome). The excavation revealed a 2nd-century A.D. military complex extending over 4770 m² at depths reaching 20 m, documented through multiple photogrammetric campaigns (2016–2018) as structures were progressively excavated and removed. We established an empirically validated texture density standard (1.26 mm²/texel) for photorealistic digital replicas suitable for immersive HMD and desktop exploration, with an explicit texture density calculation formula ensuring reproducibility. The temporal integration workflow merged 3D snapshots acquired across three excavation campaigns while maintaining geometric and chromatic consistency. Semantic documentation, through the extended matrix framework, recorded Virtual Stratigraphic Units linking archaeological evidence, comparative sources, and interpretative reasoning (paradata) for transparent virtual reconstruction. The complete pipeline, implemented through open-source 3DSC 1.4 and EMtools add-ons for Blender and Metashape v0.9 (available on GitHub), addresses specific challenges of documenting complex stratigraphic contexts within active construction environments where in situ preservation is not feasible. The spatial integration of the digital replica with previous archaeological data illuminated the urban evolution of Rome’s military topography during the 2nd–3rd centuries A.D., demonstrating the essential role of advanced digital documentation in contemporary urban archaeology. Full article

Background/Objectives: People living with depression often experience consistent disruptions in their experience of time, which further contributes to their suffering. We present a scoping review on virtual reality (VR)-based interventions for depression, addressing temporal processing and subjective experiences of time. The paper aims to explore the extent to which therapeutic interventions using VR target the temporal dimension of patients’ experiences. Methods: We conducted a scoping review using the PRISMA 2020 standard. The literature search was further extended using Research Rabbit and by examining the reference lists of relevant articles. Seventeen papers were selected for final analysis. Results: Our scoping review indicates that temporality in VR-based therapeutic interventions for depression remains underrepresented. Of the seventeen papers reviewed, only two explicitly deal with this issue, while the rest touch upon it briefly or implicitly. The studies suggest that VR’s main advantage in modifying the experience of time in depression is its potential to generate immersion and to scaffold imagination through visualization. The main limitations are methodological: most of the available research is exploratory, reports short-term effects, and utilizes a broad variety of empirical designs and therapeutic approaches. Full article

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that causes severe motor and cognitive impairments, limiting voluntary communication. Gaze-based technologies and virtual reality (VR) offer innovative ways to assess and enhance attention, happiness, and learning in individuals with minimal motor control. This study investigated and compared visual-attentional and emotional engagement in girls with RTT and typically developing (TD) peers during exploration of a virtual forest presented in 2D and immersive 3D (VR) formats across four progressively complex tasks. Twelve girls with RTT and 12 TD peers completed eye-tracking tasks measuring reaction time, fixation duration, disengagement events, and observed happiness. Girls with RTT showed slower responses and more disengagements overall, but VR significantly improved attentional efficiency in both groups, resulting in faster reaction times (η²_p = 0.36), longer fixations (η²_p = 0.31), and fewer disengagements (η²_p = 0.27). These effects were stronger in the RTT group. Both groups also showed greater happiness in VR settings (RTT: p = 0.011; TD: p = 0.015), and in participants with RTT, peaks in attention coincided with peak happiness, indicating a link between happiness and cognitive engagement. Immersive VR thus appears to enhance attention and affect in RTT, supporting its integration into personalized neurorehabilitation. Full article

Background: Immersive virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool to enhance neuroplasticity, motivation, and engagement during post-stroke motor rehabilitation. However, evidence on its feasibility and data-driven integration into clinical practice remains limited. Objective: This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, usability, and short-term motor outcomes of an immersive VR-assisted rehabilitation program using the Travee-VR system. Methods: Fourteen adults with post-stroke upper-limb paresis completed a 10-day hybrid rehabilitation program combining conventional therapy with immersive VR sessions. Feasibility and tolerability were assessed through adherence, adverse events, the System Usability Scale (SUS), and the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ). Motor outcomes included active and passive range of motion (AROM, PROM) and a derived GAP index (PROM–AROM). Correlations between clinical changes and in-game performance metrics were explored to identify potential digital performance metrics of recovery. Results: All participants completed the program without adverse events. Usability was rated as high (mean SUS = 79 ± 11.3), and cybersickness remained mild (SSQ < 40). Significant improvements were observed in shoulder abduction (+7.3°, p < 0.01) and elbow flexion (+5.8°, p < 0.05), with moderate-to-large effect sizes. Performance gains in the Fire and Fruits games correlated with clinical improvement in shoulder AROM (ρ = 0.45, p = 0.041). Cluster analysis identified distinct responder profiles, reflecting individual variability in neuroplastic adaptation. Conclusions: The Travee-VR system proved feasible, well tolerated, and associated with measurable short-term improvements in upper-limb function. By linking clinical outcomes with real-time kinematic data, this study supports the role of immersive, feedback-driven VR as a catalyst for data-informed neuroplastic recovery. These results lay the groundwork for adaptive, clinic-to-home rehabilitation models integrating clinical and exploratory digital performance metrics. Full article