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This paper investigates the potential of the Gamified Metaverse as a platform for promoting library services. The study compares the effectiveness of a traditional library program with a Metaverse- based library program in terms of knowledge acquisition and library anxiety. The research also examines students' perceptions of implementing gamification within the context of the Gamified Metaverse platform. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, including pre- and post-test analysis, statistical analysis, and qualitative data collection. The results indicate that both the traditional and Metaverse-based library programs effectively increased the participants' knowledge, with no significant difference between the two approaches. However, the Metaverse-based program was found to be less effective in facilitating interaction with librarians and reducing library anxiety. Additionally, students expressed positive perceptions of implementing gamification in the Gamified Metaverse platform, finding it engaging and motivating. These findings contribute to the understanding of the effect of the Metaverse as a tool for promoting library services and enhancing knowledge acquisition. However, it is not as effective in reducing library anxiety, particularly in terms of interaction with librarians and staff. It should be noted that the platform may have limitations such as high costs and potential side effects of virtual reality, making it more suitable as an additional tool for promoting library services, taking into account its feasibility and potential benefits for specific student populations and larger libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Augmented reality (AR) technology allows virtual objects to be superimposed on the real‐world environment, offering significant potential for improving cognitive assessments and rehabilitation processes in the field of visuospatial learning. This study examines how patients with acquired brain injury (ABI) evaluate the functions and usability of a SLAM‐based smartphone AR app to assess object‐location skills. Ten ABI patients performed a task for the spatial recall of four objects using an AR app. The data collected from 10 healthy participants provided reference values for the best performance. Their perceptions of the AR app/technology and its usability were investigated. The results indicate lower effectiveness in solving the task in the patient group, as the time they needed to complete it was related to their level of impairment. The patients showed lower, yet positive, scores in factors related to app usability and acceptance (e.g., mental effort and satisfaction, respectively). There were more patients reported on entertainment as a positive aspect of the app. Patients' perceived enjoyment was related to concentration and calm, whereas usability was associated with perceived competence, expertise, and a lower level of physical effort. For patients, the sensory aspects of the objects were related to their presence, while for healthy participants, they were related to enjoyment and required effort. The results show that AR seems to be a promising tool to assess spatial orientation in the target patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intelligent service of the digital twin machine tool provides convenience for the human operation interaction in the machine tool, and the real-time operation interaction between the human and the machine tool has high requirements for the real-time machining model simulation algorithm. Firstly, this paper proposes a simulation method based on the combination of augmented reality (AR) and digital twin of machine tool machining virtual-real fusion. Secondly, to improve the real-time interoperability between human and machine tools in the AR virtual-real fusion machining process, this paper proposes a fast Dexel model generation method based on binary tree space segmentation. The method is based on the 3D model of the workpiece preprocessing to generate a one-way Dexel model of the binary tree storage structure, using the tool and the workpiece overlap envelope in the binary tree structure to determine the interference region, and ultimately calculating the intersection line between the one-way generation line and the tool geometry to get the model of the workpiece after cutting. By analyzing the real-time performance of the algorithm, the algorithm satisfies the simulation calculation of Dexel models of different scales. Finally, through the example of real-time interactive operation between human and machine tool AR, the results show that the average display frame rate of this algorithm in the machining process reaches 55–60 frames, and the parameter error between the model after virtual machining and the actual machining model is within 1.3%. At the same time, 100 people were randomly selected to carry out AR interaction training, and the real-time performance experience of AR virtual-real fusion machining was comprehensively evaluated, and the results showed that the system can meet the real-time demand of interaction operation of most participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn recent years, learning approaches such as flipped classroom model and technologies such as augmented reality has emerged as innovations that have the potential to transform learning approaches and environments. In this study, it is aimed to compile the current research trends of the studies aiming to reveal the effects of augmented reality technologies integrated into the flipped classroom model with the systematic review method. It is considered that the results to be obtained by systematically examining the applicability of augmented reality technologies integrated into the flipped classroom model are important in terms of guiding future research. For this purpose, studies published in Web of Science (WOS), Scopus and ERIC databases were examined based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and 14 studies were selected according to the criteria. These studies were subjected to content analysis and the results were presented with visual tools such as tables and graphs. The findings show that the interest in augmented reality technologies integrated into the flipped classroom model has increased significantly in recent years and that augmented reality can be effectively integrated into education. It has been determined that the flipped classroom model offers students the opportunity to focus on their individual needs by allowing them to learn at their own pace and plays an important role in the teaching process by combining these advantages with the features of augmented reality such as concretization, making the learning process remarkable and effective. More research is needed to understand the effects of augmented reality applications integrated into the flipped classroom model, which stands out as an approach that brings a new perspective to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While headsets dedicated to mixed reality are increasingly considered to virtualize workspaces in the office, the keyboard remains mostly unchanged and nevertheless is still envisioned as an interface for common professional activities heavily demanding in text entry. However, unlike headsets, a keyboard is intrinsically limited to immobile context during its use, due to the need for physical support. In this article, we investigate a radical change in the structural shape of the keyboard, switching from the plane to a cube, allowing users to fully benefit from their whole environment by entering text in a much wider variety of contexts. We designed a cubic layout based on the QWERTY and results from two user studies to define the best holding position as well as fingers preferences and reachability to the cubic shape. Then, we conducted two subsequent user studies and one longitudinal case study to compare and evaluate typing skill transfer from the keyboard, learning curve, fingers usage, usability, and workload in various contexts. The cubic-shaped text entry device finally showed its versatility with users having similar performances while standing with a mixed-reality headset or sitting in front of a laptop, and an input speed from an expert reaching 55.1 wpm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Navigation assistance has become part of our daily lives and its implementation in medicine has been going on for the last 3 decades. Navigation is defined as the determination of a position in space in the context of its surroundings. While routing applications used in cars highlight the street to follow, in medical applications the real-world perception of the user is enriched by digital elements that provide guidance and help the user navigate. Unlike Virtual Reality (VR) solutions, which are mainly used for training, Augmented Reality systems (AR) do not require the user to wear specific headsets/goggles, but the virtual elements are overlaid over the real image displayed on a monitor. Depending on the application and the indication, there are large differences in how much these solutions have entered clinical routine. Especially in the fields of GI endoscopy and laparoscopy, AR navigation solutions are less prominently employed in clinical practice today and still hold significant potential to elevate patient care by improved physician support. This review touches upon why AR navigation systems are currently just starting to become implemented in the GI/laparoscopic clinical routine and which applications can be expected in the GI endoscopy and laparoscopy field. By taking the practitioner's perspective and following the intuitive navigation workflow, it gives an overview of major available and potential future AR-applications in the GI endoscopy and laparoscopy space, the respective underlying technologies, their maturity level and their potential to change clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractAdvances in mobile consumer technology, especially in smartphones, have given rise to numerous new crowdsourcing opportunities. With the miniaturization of sensors and the growing number of smartphone models containing a wide range of them, we are now capable of creating digital imitations of real-world objects using everyday mobile devices. In this study, we created four augmented reality (AR) applications utilizing LiDAR sensors that were designed for crowdsourcing the creation of such digital imitations, i.e., digital twins. A user study was undertaken where video recordings, audio recordings, point cloud, and mesh data were collected in forest settings. Each approach was evaluated in terms of the characteristics and quality of the crowdsourced data acquired, as well as the participants’ behavior and experience. Our findings demonstrate that through gamification approaches, we can influence not only the user experience but also the type and quality of the crowdsourced data. Our findings offer guidance on which gamification dynamics and interactions are best suited for several types of crowdsourcing tasks. We also show that the collection of meaningful data is not limited to specific interactions or experiences and suggest that there are multiple routes in gamification design for reaching the desired outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measured spatial resolution of augmented reality head‐mounted displays (AR HMDs) is determined by three components: optics, display, and the rendering pipeline, which includes the anti‐aliasing method. Therefore, separating and quantifying the contributions from these components is necessary for evaluating the spatial resolution of AR HMDs. We demonstrate a method for quantifying the contributions from the optical performance and the rendering pipeline on the spatial resolution of AR HMD using point‐spread function (PSF) analysis. In this method, an imaging photometer captures a series of rendered scenes on the AR HMD that consist of arrays of spheres of increasing sizes with different anti‐aliasing (AA) methods. The contributions from the optics, display, and anti‐aliasing methods can be separated, and we find that temporal anti‐aliasing (TAA) and multisample anti‐aliasing (MSAA) are in good agreement with the performance of no AA. However, fast approximate anti‐aliasing (FXAA) results in decreased luminance for smaller rendered targets and a different spatial resolution for larger targets. Finally, we repeated our methods on multiple HMDs and characterized the dependence of the spatial resolution across the field of view. These measurements show significant non‐uniformity in the optical contribution to the spatial resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant percentage of bridges in the United States are serving beyond their 50-year design life, and many of them are in poor condition, making them vulnerable to fatigue cracks that can result in catastrophic failure. However, current fatigue crack inspection practice based on human vision is time-consuming, labor intensive, and prone to error. We present a novel human-centered bridge inspection methodology to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of fatigue crack detection by employing advanced technologies including computer vision and augmented reality (AR). In particular, a computer vision-based algorithm is developed to enable near-real-time fatigue crack detection by analyzing structural surface motion in a short video recorded by a moving camera of the AR headset. The approach monitors structural surfaces by tracking feature points and measuring variations in distances between feature point pairs to recognize the motion pattern associated with the crack opening and closing. Measuring distance changes between feature points, as opposed to their displacement changes before this improvement, eliminates the need of camera motion compensation and enables reliable and computationally efficient fatigue crack detection using the nonstationary AR headset. In addition, an AR environment is created and integrated with the computer vision algorithm. The crack detection results are transmitted to the AR headset worn by the bridge inspector, where they are converted into holograms and anchored on the bridge surface in the 3D real-world environment. The AR environment also provides virtual menus to support human-in-the-loop decision-making to determine optimal crack detection parameters. This human-centered approach with improved visualization and human–machine collaboration aids the inspector in making well-informed decisions in the field in a near-real-time fashion. The proposed crack detection method is comprehensively assessed using two laboratory test setups for both in-plane and out-of-plane fatigue cracks. Finally, using the integrated AR environment, a human-centered bridge inspection is conducted to demonstrate the efficacy and potential of the proposed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Augmented reality (AR) and 3D printing (3DP) are novel technologies in the orthopedic field. Over the past decade, enthusiasm for these new digital applications has driven new perspectives in improving diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity in the field of traumatology. Currently, however, it is still difficult to quantify their value and impact in the medical–scientific field, especially in the improvement of diagnostics in complex fractures. Acetabular fractures have always been a challenge in orthopedics, due to their volumetric complexity and low diagnostic reliability. Background/Objectives: The goal of this study was to determine whether these methods could improve the learning aspect and diagnostic accuracy of complex acetabular fractures compared to gold-standard CT (computed tomography). Methods: Orthopedic residents of our department were selected and divided into Junior (JUN) and Senior (SEN) groups. Associated fractures of acetabulum were included in the study, and details of these were provided as CT scans, 3DP models, and AR models displayed on a tablet screen. In a double-blind questionnaire, each resident classified every fracture. Diagnostic accuracy (DA), response time (RT), agreement (R), and confidence (C) were measured. Results: Twenty residents (JUN = 10, SEN = 10) classified five fractures. Overall DA was 26% (CT), 18% (3DP), and 29% (AR). AR-DA was superior to 3DP-DA (p = 0.048). DA means (JUN vs. SEN, respectively): CT-DA was 20% vs. 32% (p < 0.05), 3DP-DA was 12% vs. 24% (p = 0.08), and AR-DA was 28% vs. 30% (p = 0.80). Overall RT was 61.2 s (±24.6) for CT, 35.8 s (±20.1) for 3DP, and 46.7 s (±20.8) for AR. R was fairly poor between methods and groups. Overall, 3DPs had superior C (65%). Conclusions: AR had the same overall DA as CT, independent of experience, 3DP had minor differences in DA and R, but it was the fastest method and the one in which there was the most confidence. Intra- and inter-observer R between methods remained very poor in residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Neuronavigation and microscope-based augmented reality are widely used in neurosurgery to support intraoperative orientation, preserve neurological function, and maximize the extent of resection. However, in the sitting position, navigation may not be accurate enough to fully exploit its potential due to brain deformations caused by gravity and brain shift. To ensure accurate navigation and augmented reality support, it is necessary to verify and update navigation regularly. Intraoperative ultrasound is an easy-to-use tool that can be used to verify accuracy and to generate real-time image data to update navigation without significantly interrupting the surgical workflow. This can be achieved by outlining the lesion within the data set or by rigidly co-registering preoperative and intraoperative data to update and enable navigation and augmented reality support. In this study, image-based co-registration improved the navigation accuracy, making intraoperative ultrasound useful for enabling navigation and augmented reality support during posterior fossa surgery in the sitting position. Despite its broad use in cranial and spinal surgery, navigation support and microscope-based augmented reality (AR) have not yet found their way into posterior fossa surgery in the sitting position. While this position offers surgical benefits, navigation accuracy and thereof the use of navigation itself seems limited. Intraoperative ultrasound (iUS) can be applied at any time during surgery, delivering real-time images that can be used for accuracy verification and navigation updates. Within this study, its applicability in the sitting position was assessed. Data from 15 patients with lesions within the posterior fossa who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based navigation-supported surgery in the sitting position were retrospectively analyzed using the standard reference array and new rigid image-based MRI-iUS co-registration. The navigation accuracy was evaluated based on the spatial overlap of the outlined lesions and the distance between the corresponding landmarks in both data sets, respectively. Image-based co-registration significantly improved (p < 0.001) the spatial overlap of the outlined lesion (0.42 ± 0.30 vs. 0.65 ± 0.23) and significantly reduced (p < 0.001) the distance between the corresponding landmarks (8.69 ± 6.23 mm vs. 3.19 ± 2.73 mm), allowing for the sufficient use of navigation and AR support. Navigated iUS can therefore serve as an easy-to-use tool to enable navigation support for posterior fossa surgery in the sitting position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Augmented reality (AR) is a promising technology to enhance image guided surgery and represents the perfect bridge to combine precise virtual planning with computer-aided execution of surgical maneuvers in the operating room. In craniofacial surgical oncology, AR brings to the surgeon's sight a digital, three-dimensional representation of the anatomy and helps to identify tumor boundaries and optimal surgical paths. Intraoperatively, real-time AR guidance provides surgeons with accurate spatial information, ensuring accurate tumor resection and preservation of critical structures. In this paper, the authors review current evidence of AR applications in craniofacial surgery, focusing on real surgical applications, and compare existing literature with their experience during an AR and navigation guided craniofacial resection, to subsequently analyze which technological trajectories will represent the future of AR and define new perspectives of application for this revolutionizing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light absorbed by sensitive artwork may cause irreversible damage. Optimising the spectral power distribution of light sources to minimise absorbed light can reduce damage while maintaining the colour appearance of the artwork. Previous absorption-minimisation studies used optimisation methods without comparing their performance. Here, three-channel LED-augmented reality projector spectra were optimised for 24 colour samples using a brute-force (BF) and multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA). The BF search and MOGA performed similarly in achieving optimal results, reducing both light absorption and energy consumption by almost half. However, MOGA was 2.5 times faster than BF in finding optimal solutions. The results indicate that an LED RGB projector can be used to illuminate museum artefacts to reduce light absorption and energy consumption, with the caveat of perceptible colour shifts in some of the colour samples. Future research will investigate observers' subjective evaluations of artwork under optimised lighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for less complex and more accurate architectures has always been a priority since the broad usage of computer vision in everyday life, like auto‐drive cars, portable applications, augmented reality systems, medical image analysis etc. There are a lot of methods that have been developed to improve the accuracy and complexity of object detection, like the generations of R‐CNNs and YOLOs. However, these methods are not the most efficient architectures, and there is always room to improve. In this study, the 5th version of YOLO is employed and the improved architecture, Inception‐YOLO, is presented. The model significantly outperforms the SOTA YOLO family. Specifically, the improvements can be summarised as follows: impressive improvement of floating point operations (FLOPs) and number of parameters, as well as improvement in accuracy compared to the models with fewer FLOPs. All our presented approaches, like the optimized inception module, proposed structures for CSP and SPPF, and the improved loss function used in this research, work together to incrementally improve detection results, accuracy, demanded memory, and FLOPs simultaneously. For a glimpse of performance, the Inception‐YOLO‐S model hits 38.7% AP with 5.9M parameters and 11.5 BFLOPs and outperforms YOLOv5‐S with 37.4% AP, 7.2M parameters, and 16.5 BFLOPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of augmented reality (AR), 3D reconstruction, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), and autonomous driving requires off-the-shelf camera calibration solutions that are adaptable to cameras of different configurations in different complex scenarios. To this end, we propose a generic, robust, and accurate camera calibration framework, called Meta-Calib, by using single or multiple novel designed ArUco-encoded meta-board(s), which is dedicated to estimate accurate camera intrinsic parameters and extrinsic transformations of different multi-camera configurations. The ArUco calibration board has been redesigned to facilitate learning-based robust detection and obtain higher precision control point coordinates, which is termed the meta-board. This completely replaces the widely-used chessboard based on the corner extraction scheme to greatly alleviate the impact of image distortion on control points, especially when it is located at the boundary area of the fish-eye camera. A robust two-stage deep learning detection strategy is applied to reliably localize the ArUco-encoded inner coding region of the meta-board followed by identifying two categories of circular shapes representing "0" and "1" encoded in the ArUco pattern for decoding and orientation determination. The center points of circular shapes on the meta-board in the distorted image taken under the perspective view can be approximated through elliptical fitting with contour edges. The deviation between the fitting center points and ground-truth can be greatly suppressed when the refined sub-pixel contour edges extracted on the original image are projected to the orthographic projection view based on the camera intrinsic parameters, distortion coefficients and the prior information of the meta-board. Based on this observation, we propose a systematic iterative refinement approach to achieve the high-precision intrinsic calibration of a camera. This process involves improving the estimation of camera intrinsic parameters and fitting the center control points of circular shapes on the meta-boards in an iterative manner. The progressive nature of our approach permits reliably calibrate large distortion camera models under the presence of noisy measurements, which ensures good convergence. In addition, we also propose a graph-based multi-camera extrinsic calibration method via the corrected control points to reliably estimate both the relative poses of the meta-boards and cameras in the multi-camera system. The proposed method is not constrained by the number of cameras and meta-boards used, which makes our strategy accessible even with inflexible computer vision experts. Furthermore, we have derived the mathematical form for computing the covariance of the extrinsic transformation, which makes it possible to evaluate the uncertainty of the calibration results. Extensive experiments on a large number of both real and synthetic datasets, including perspective, fish-eye, and multiple overlapping cameras, are performed to prove the effectiveness and robustness of the developed Meta-Calib calibration framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wine, a product steeped in tradition and history, is often challenging for consumers to decipher due to its intricate characteristics. Appealing to non-wine connoisseurs to break into untapped market segments requires both innovation and creative thinking. To accomplish this, three wine brands utilized augmented reality (AR) technology to craft unique brand storytelling experiences that centered around the label, without focusing on physical product attributes, ultimately resonating with new market segments. This article explores the use cases of three wine brands; 19 Crimes, Barefoot, and Enosophia Wines, that employed AR technology as a form of disruptive rhetoric, to supplement their wine label storytelling. The study sheds light on how multisensory technology such as AR can be used to carve out new wine target markets and proposes an AR experience model with accompanying propositions outlining how the experiential realms can be leveraged to achieve key brand objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical incidents are unanticipated events (either positive or negative) that teachers may encounter during a lesson or other situation causing them to reflect on their approach and change accordingly..Critical incidents have great potential for learning as they are vividly remembered and set the conditions for systematic reflection. However, despite the importance of the critical incident technique for professional learning in Initial Teacher Education (ITE), it is not generally used in teacher education programmes until the practicum stage when video-analysis is used. This study aims to analyse student teachers' individual and group reflections regarding two cases recorded on video in Portugal and Spain. Under the context of an Erasmus research project entitled 'Digital Practicum 3.0: Exploring Augmented Reality, Remote Classrooms, and Virtual Learning to enrich and expand preservice teacher education preparation (2020–1-ES01-KA226-HE - 096,120)' two cohorts of 39 and 22 student teachers, respectively, reflected upon two critical incidents previously selected by the student teachers who had taught the two lessons that were video recorded. They had to watch the videos and analyse the incidents both in group discussion and individual reflection. Findings suggest that such a strategy is key to enhancing the development of critical reflection in Initial Teacher Education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terahertz imaging is one of the most promising approaches for non-destructive control. An interesting approach to having cost-effective systems is to use frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radars with a raster scan configuration. Nevertheless, current systems using linear stages or robotic arms have the disadvantage of being heavy, requiring a long scan and not allowing a direct visualization of the result being measured. In addition, it is complex to evaluate the position of the measuring point on the real object, particularly if it is not flat. Here, we propose to solve these previous challenges with a portable system combining an FMCW radar with an augmented reality (AR) interface using a smartphone. This system achieves two goals: (i) first is to achieve data acquisition in the AR environment and (ii) the second is to make possible the visualization of data, even after post-processing, in the AR environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) have sparked recently in improving the effectiveness of teacher education. However, there is a lack of review regarding the utilisation of these technologies in this field. These three technologies, namely VR, AR and MR, can be collectively referred to as extended reality (XR) (as mentioned in reference Tang et al., 2022). Objectives: Remarkably, the utilisation of XR‐based technologies in teacher education needs to be explored. Moreover, research questions related to the training objectives, methodological features, and the effects of XR‐based teacher education remain unanswered. Methods: To this end, the present study conducted a systematic review to analyse 52 articles from six databases (including Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ERIC, ScienceDirect, and ACM Digital Library). Results: The results indicate that XR technologies have been primarily used to train teachers' procedural knowledge, for instance, classroom management. Furthermore, most studies have primarily focused on pre‐service teachers (PSTs) rather than in‐service teachers and utilised small sample sizes, with VR emerging as the most frequently employed tool. Finally, the majority of the studies reported that XR‐based training affected teachers positively. Conclusions: It urges researchers and developers to consider theory‐driven training design, which increases the potential to better understand what features of XR promote in‐service teachers' and PSTs' learning and how they do so. This article additionally conducts a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of XR‐based teacher education to offer more insightful recommendations and foster further discussion. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: Numerous empirical studies have shown the great potential of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) technologies utilised in teacher education.This rapidly growing field calls upon a synthesis of the use of extended reality (XR) technologies in teacher education. What this paper adds: Presents a systematic review of XR‐based teacher education, which provides a thorough overview of how previous research utilised XR technologies to promote teacher education.Conducted a SWOT analysis and pointed out the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of XR‐based teacher education. Implications for practice and/or policy: A depth of understanding of previous research on this topic may enable educators to better plan and promote teacher education programs.It can guide researchers to optimise the multisensory immersion and interactivity of the virtual systems and platforms and develop suitable materials and tasks to be used in such learning environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Simulation training is an important component of medical education. In former studies, diagnostic simulation training for direct and indirect funduscopy was already proven to be an effective training method. In this prospective controlled trial, we investigated the effect of simulator-based fundus biomicroscopy training. Methods: After completing a 1-week ophthalmology clerkship, medical students at Saarland University Medical Center (n = 30) were block-randomized into two groups: The traditional group received supervised training examining the fundus of classmates using a slit lamp; the simulator group was trained using the Slit Lamp Simulator. All participants had to pass an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE); two masked ophthalmological faculty trainers graded the students' skills when examining patient's fundus using a slit lamp. A subjective assessment form and post-assessment surveys were obtained. Data were described using median (interquartile range [IQR]). Results: Twenty-five students (n = 14 in the simulator group, n = 11 in the traditional group) (n = 11) were eligible for statistical analysis. Interrater reliability was verified as significant for the overall score as well as for all subtasks (≤ 0.002) except subtask 1 (p = 0.12). The overall performance of medical students in the fundus biomicroscopy OSCE was statistically ranked significantly higher in the simulator group (27.0 [5.25]/28.0 [3.0] vs. 20.0 [7.5]/16.0 [10.0]) by both observers with an interrater reliability of IRR < 0.001 and a significance level of p = 0.003 for observer 1 and p < 0.001 for observer 2. For all subtasks, the scores given to students trained using the simulator were consistently higher than those given to students trained traditionally. The students' post-assessment forms confirmed these results. Students could learn the practical backgrounds of fundus biomicroscopy (p = 0.04), the identification (p < 0.001), and localization (p < 0.001) of pathologies significantly better with the simulator. Conclusions: Traditional supervised methods are well complemented by simulation training. Our data indicate that the simulator helps with first patient contacts and enhances students' capacity to examine the fundus biomicroscopically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) offer businesses an opportunity to create a competitive advantage by providing a unique customer experience across the customer's pre-purchase, purchase, and post-purchase journey. Several businesses have engaged with these technologies, yet, South African businesses are slow adopters. A qualitative study was conducted with AR and VR developers to determine how businesses can use AR and VR technologies to enhance their customer experience. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the factors contributing to and hindering the adoption of AR and VR technologies. The findings indicate that these technologies are mainly used for (1) marketing and (2) training purposes, enabling product customization, enhanced brand experience, and improved communication. Several factors contributing to adopting these technologies were identified, such as improved marketing campaigns, reduced training risks, reinforcing best practices, identifying and managing potential hazards, and offering simulations of real-life events. The factors that hinder the adoption include high cost, data usage, customer adoption, and lack of high-quality user experience designers. The findings of this study offer several practical contributions to assist businesses in the decision to implement and engage with these technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart mirrors remain in the early stages of market formation and the expansion thereof exhibits limitations. To address this issue, avatars based on augmented reality (AR) of smart mirrors are attracting attention as an innovative retail marketing tool, with a focus on Generation Z customers who have large potential purchasing capabilities. However, no study has empirically identified the continuous usage intention of AR avatars for actual users. Hence, in this study, an empirical analysis was performed based on the uses and gratifications theory. A laboratory experiment that reflected an actual shopping scenario was implemented and a survey of 168 people from Generation Z was conducted. Consequently, important directions are suggested for system developers and marketers in the use of smart mirrors. Moreover, this study offers novel insights into identifying the continuous usage intention of AR avatar contents in smart mirrors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of Industry 4.0, rapid analysis and optimization of manufacturing processes are emerging as a vital demand of smart manufacturing factories. Ergonomics is an essential aspect of the ongoing screening of working conditions and a fundamental variable in Industry 4.0, as it calls for a flexible manufacturing system to strengthen the competitiveness of factories in the global market. This paper proposes a new augmented reality-based ergonomic evaluation platform: Augmented Reality-based Ergonomic Platform (ARE Platform). Introducing the Augmented Reality technology by superimposing virtual planning objects into the physically existing production environment. Utilizing the motion capture system collects data for a set of ergonomic indexes (RULA, OWAS, and NIOSH), accessibility and visibility verification. ARE platform could be used in the verification phase of smart manufacturing systems to evaluate the level of risk to workers' bodies during operations in real-time. The platform reduces the time and economic cost of verification and satisfies the rapid response of ergonomic evaluation and feedback in the context of smart manufacturing. Finally, the developed ARE platform is validated in two rigorous automotive assembly cases in the laboratory. Meanwhile, the ergonomic assessment results are analysed and reported for a people-oriented manufacturing system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astronaut training is complex due to its specific infrastructure and equipment requirements, which are often costly. Immersive technologies can simulate entire environments, allowing for interactive user experiences. Previous research has confirmed the effectiveness of immersive technologies in training and learning. However, simulations alone are insufficient; participants must also engage with vehicles, machinery, and spacecraft systems to understand their impact on the environment and adjacent objects. This study develops four scenarios within three modules, inspired by NASA and ESA astronaut training programs. The first module presents a theoretical scenario using mixed reality (MR), incorporating topics from ESA's training modules. The second module offers two practical scenarios: an ISS emergency simulation that includes Hohmann transfer and circular motion concepts, and a spacewalk for repair tasks. In these scenarios, digital twins of the ISS propulsion and navigation systems, as well as a spacesuit, were created. The third module simulates a spacecraft launch, utilizing 3D models from SpaceX's Falcon Heavy and digital twins of its propulsion and navigation systems. Participants interacted with the digital twins and scenarios, generating data that was stored and analyzed against the ISS dataset from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and telemetry from the SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch. In this work's initial phase, the main objective was to assess whether digital twins could be integrated with immersive technologies for effective training. A mean squared error metric was employed to compare the digital twins with the physical object data, confirming the alignment of the developed digital twins with the actual systems, thereby validating their utility for astronaut training. • Mixed reality and digital twins can be used to improve astronaut's training. • Mixed reality scenarios are a safe way to learn and train about a specific topic. • Mixed reality foster training experiences: Promoting creative problem-solving skills. • Digital Twins enhances immersive technologies: Leveraging digital twins capacities for immersive training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)—termed mixed reality—have shown promise in the care of operative patients. Currently, AR and VR have well-known applications for craniofacial surgery, specifically in preoperative planning. However, the application of AR/VR technology to other reconstructive challenges has not been widely adopted. Thus, the purpose of this investigation is to outline the current applications of AR and VR in the operative setting. Methods The literature pertaining to the use of AR/VR technology in the operative setting was examined. Emphasis was placed on the use of mixed reality technology in surgical subspecialities, including plastic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, colorectal surgery, neurosurgery, otolaryngology, neurosurgery, and orthopaedic surgery. Results Presently, mixed reality is widely used in the care of patients requiring complex reconstruction of the craniomaxillofacial skeleton for pre- and intraoperative planning. For upper extremity amputees, there is evidence that VR may be efficacious in the treatment of phantom limb pain. Furthermore, VR has untapped potential as a cost-effective tool for microsurgical education and for training residents on techniques in surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic treatment. There is utility for mixed reality in breast reconstruction for preoperative planning, mapping perforators, and decreasing operative time. VR has well- documented applications in the planning of deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps by creating three-dimensional immersive simulations based on a patient's preoperative computed tomography angiogram. Conclusion The benefits of AR and VR are numerous for both patients and surgeons. VR has been shown to increase surgical precision and decrease operative time. Furthermore, it is effective for patient-specific rehearsal which uses the patient's exact anatomical data to rehearse the procedure before performing it on the actual patient. Taken together, AR/VR technology can improve patient outcomes, decrease operative times, and lower the burden of care on both patients and health care institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Structural characteristics' are gambling product design features which contribute to the amount of time or money that gamblers spend using them, such as the short pay-out intervals of electronic gaming machines (EGMs). However, it is important to also understand the structural characteristics of current online sports betting products, and how these products may continue to evolve via a forward-looking analysis of utility patents, given the increasing international popularity of this gambling mode. A scoping review of the emergent structural characteristics associated with online sports betting was conducted upon the literature (2015–2022), and of sports betting utility patents. A total of 26 literature records and 8 utility patents were included. Results indicated that online sports betting is instantly accessible, provides rapid and continuous betting opportunities, and offers user-interactivity via features such as 'cash-out' and the ability to instantly deposit funds. Additionally, the online sports betting market has expanded into adjacent industries such as esports. The included utility patents suggest that online sports betting may evolve by incorporating peer-to-peer competitive elements, augmented reality, and highly specific statistics/notifications. Overall, the online environment has transformed sports betting into a faster and more harmful gambling mode that provides a diverse range of features and betting opportunities. It is important that this area of research develops in order to encourage appropriate policy and the more ethical redesign of online sports betting products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe sense of immersion provided by overlying computer-generated graphics over actual items is one of augmented reality’s distinguishing features. It is affected by multiple factors such as the user interface orientation in the virtual physical hybrid space. There have been many studies on realistic graphic rendering and multimodal interaction in augmented reality. Few studies, however, have systematically investigated the influence of the user interface orientations, more specifically the user-based orientation (UO) and object-based orientation (OO), on various aspects of immersion. We developed the UO and OO user interface prototypes and evaluated the sense of immersion in terms of engagement, engrossment, and overall immersion. The results showed that the user interface orientations in augmented reality had a significant influence on users’ perceived engagement and engrossment, whereas there was no significant difference in overall immersion. Particularly, compared to the OO user interfaces, the UO user interfaces exhibited higher perceived usability and slower focus of attention switching. Generalising implications for alternative augmented reality are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study pioneers the integration of augmented reality (AR) with reality puzzle games to enrich local cultural understanding and enhance the sense of place. By merging AR’s interactive capabilities with the narrative depth of geography, we offer an innovative approach to experiential learning. Our research demonstrates how AR can transform the learning experience, making local history and culture more engaging and memorable for learners. Through an empirical study involving learners engaged in AR-enhanced reality puzzle-solving activities, we found significant improvements in their comprehension of regional historical contexts and emotional connections to the place. This paper not only showcases the potential of AR in educational settings but also contributes to the literature by providing a novel method for fostering deeper connections between people and their local environments. Our findings suggest that AR can serve as a powerful tool in the geography education domain, offering a dynamic and immersive learning experience that traditional methods struggle to match. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human errors are prevalent in manual assembly line statistics, but humans are still a necessary and numerous working force for assembly tasks. Since faster and shorter production cycles lead to higher mental efforts, an alternative to decrease the cognitive load and errors of manual assembly lines is using augmented reality (AR). AR increases system interaction and assists operators in the step-by-step of any tasks performed. Its use allows granular production data, enabling an increase in quality control and timely detection of assembly problems. However, AR alone is not enough to avoid demotivation and lack of engagement in the task, which is repetitive. Gamification can become an auxiliary resource to increase operators' motivation and engagement. This paper presents a system model to integrate AR and gamification for a manual assembly line of printed circuit boards (PCBs) called GRAAL, used to develop an actual system for PCB assembly, which can guide operators using AR but also tracks down their efficiency and efficacy which is then used for gamifying their performance. A prototype system was implemented and assessed by 34 specialist respondents. TAM 3 (Technology Acceptance Model 3) Questionnaire was used to assess the system, which allowed us to find that GRAAL was well accepted (all scores were above the center of a Likert scale from 1 to 7 values), suggesting that GRAAL may be useful as an auxiliary resource to manual assembly lines. We conclude that modeling a system that merges AR and gamification is feasible but a non-trivial task in industry. The system's features are dependent on conditioning factors such as Application Environment, Application Context, Application Audience, AR hardware, and gamification elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the role of the metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Methods: A systematic review was performed using the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive review of the applications of the metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality in in-vivo intraoperative navigation, in the training of orthopedic residents, and in the latest innovations proposed in ex-vivo studies was conducted. Results: A total of 22 articles were included in the review. Data on navigated shoulder arthroplasty was extracted from 14 articles: seven hundred ninety-three patients treated with intraoperative navigated rTSA or aTSA were included. Also, three randomized control trials (RCTs) reported outcomes on a total of fifty-three orthopedics surgical residents and doctors receiving VR-based training for rTSA, which were also included in the review. Three studies reporting the latest VR and AR-based rTSA applications and two proof of concept studies were also included in the review. Conclusions: The metaverse, augmented reality, and virtual reality present immense potential for the future of orthopedic surgery. As these technologies advance, it is crucial to conduct additional research, foster development, and seamlessly integrate them into surgical education to fully harness their capabilities and transform the field. This evolution promises enhanced accuracy, expanded training opportunities, and improved surgical planning capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nPRACTICING POINTSPurpose: Virtual interactive 3-dimensional models (VI3DM) and immersive virtual reality are implemented in medical education and surgical training. VI3DM allow learners to view and interact with a virtual 3D object and help in conceptualising learning objectives that demand high cognitive and visuo-spatial skills. However, the effects of VI3DM in medical education are unknown. We aimed to determine whether VI3DM are helpful in conceptualising complex anatomical structures. Materials and methods: We included 5 specimens, which were assessed by 200 first-year medical students categorised into experimental (n = 100) and control (n = 100) groups using a systemic randomisation method after matching for age and sex. The experimental group was given VI3DM as interventional learning resources while the control group was given 2-dimensional photographs as conventional learning resources for self-directed learning for 30 minutes. Participants completed a questionnaire before and after the learning session to assess their knowledge related to external features, attachments, and relations of anatomical specimens. Results: The scores of the experimental group improved significantly in the post-test compared to those of the control group for all 5 specimens included in the study (p < 0.05, confidence interval = 95%, unpaired student’s t-test). Conclusions: VI3DM can help conceptualise external features, attachments, and relations of anatomical structures.VI3DM allow interaction with and manipulation of 3D images of anatomical specimens on digital screens, web applications, mobile applications, and head mounted devices.Conceptualisation of anatomical structures requires processing of high cognitive and visuo-spatial information which can be eased by VI3DM.The anatomy can be visualised in high quality using digital 3D technology, which results in good perception of the third dimension and effectively increases the post-test score compared to the conventional method of learning, with higher engagement and satisfaction of the learners.Digital 3D models improve learners’ engagement and compliance, specifically when the presented digital 3D models are interactive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe applicability of augmented reality (AR) as a tool for geospatial data analysis and urban environment interaction relies on developing robust and accurate systems capable of aligning the virtual reference frame with the geographic one. In this article, we introduce our work toward the conceptualization and realization of Geographic-Aware Augmented Reality (GeoAR), including an evaluated framework for the automatic registration of georeferenced AR content. The proposed framework uses a novel calibration method that enables highly accurate placement of augmentations at their assigned geographic coordinate. Moreover, it introduces four calibration approaches suitable for different user needs. The framework was evaluated to assess the robustness of the augmentation’s positional accuracy in three areas with different environmental characteristics, using references up to 50 m away while the user moves around. The results demonstrate that this framework supports novel outdoor AR applications, extending the possibilities in research and urban applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Searching for objects is a common task in daily life and work. For augmented reality (AR) devices without spatial perception systems, the image of the object's last appearance serves as a common search assistance. Compared to using only images as visual cues, videos capturing the process of object placement can provide procedural guidance, potentially enhancing users' search efficiency. However, complete video playback capturing the entire object placement process as visual cues can be excessively lengthy, requiring users to invest significant viewing time. To explore whether segmented or accelerated video playback can still assist users in object retrieval tasks effectively, we conducted a user study. The results indicated that when video playback is covering the first appearance of the object's destination to the object's final appearance (referred to as the destination appearance, DA) and playing at normal speed, search time and cognitive load were significantly reduced. Subsequently, we designed a second user study to evaluate the performance of video playback compared to image cues in object retrieval tasks. The results showed that combining the DA playback starting point with images of the object's last appearance further reduced search time and cognitive load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]