Mixed Reality Technology Research Articles

Telemedicine technologies in combat settings: efficiency and prospects (literature review)

Relevance. Large-scale military conflicts involving a technically well-equipped peer enemy are associated with a higher risk of delayed evacuation of the wounded which therefore requires extended medical care at advanced medical evacuation stages, especially amid absence or shortage of skillful medical professionals. Telehealth can offer solutions to overcome the difficulties in medical care provision amid combat settings. The objective is to study the prospects and efficiency of telemedicine technologies in enhancing availability of medical care during modern military operations.Methods. The PubMed database and the Scientific Electronic Library (eLIBRARY.ru) were used to collect research papers published from 2014 to 2024 studying the development and implementation of telemedicine technologies to backup combat operations.Results and discussion. Consultations by phone together with transfer of photos and text messaging remain the most common technology to provide telehealth assistance in combat settings. Teleconference connection allowing for two-way audio and video communication involving real-time data transfer is a most promising telecommunication format. Telehealth capacities can be expanded by augmented and mixed reality technologies, AI, drones, or robotic surgery. In combat environments, however, using telemedicine is limited by cybersecurity concerns and the signal bandwidth of modern communications systems. An efficient military telemedicine requires an integral centralized system involving multidisciplinary teams of experienced medical consultants providing round-the-clock emergency and routine telemedicine care to military units, including those engaged in combat operations.Conclusion. In combat settings telemedicine technologies have great untapped potential and can contribute largely in terms of evidence-based decision-making in process of medical triage and evacuation, thus optimizing the distribution of medical capacities and resources and improving the results of injury treatment. Although unfit to replace advanced combat medicine training, telemedicine can reinforce existing capacities by providing specialized medical advice to combat medics.

Less gets more attention: A novel human-centered MR remote collaboration assembly method with information recommendation and visual enhancement

Mixed reality remote collaboration assembly is a type of computer-supported collaborative assembly work that uses mixed reality technology to enable spatial information and collaboration status sharing among geographically distributed collaborators, including remote experts and local users. However, due to the abundance of mixed virtual and real-world information in the MR space and the limitations imposed by narrow field-of-view augmented reality (AR) glasses, users face challenges in effectively focusing on relevant and valuable visual information. Our research aims to enhance users' visual attention to critical guidance information in MR collaborative assembly tasks, thereby improving the clear expression of instructions and facilitating the transmission of collaborative intention. We developed the Information Recommendation and Visual Enhancement System (IRVES) through an assembly process information hierarchy division mechanism, a content-based information recommendation system, and a gesture interaction-based information visual enhancement method. IRVES can leverage the guidance expertise and preferences of remote experts to recommend information to filter out irrelevant information and present the key information that the remote expert conveys to the local user in an intuitive way through visual enhancement. We conducted a user study experiment of a collaborative assembly task of a small engine in a laboratory environment. The experimental results indicate that IRVES outperforms traditional MR remote collaborative assembly methods (VG3DV) in terms of time performance, operational errors, cognitive performance and user experience. Our research contributes a human-centered information visualization approach for remote experts and local users, providing a novel method and idea for designing visual information interfaces in MR remote collaboration assembly tasks.

Accurate Medical Vial Identification Through Mixed Reality: A HoloLens 2 Implementation

The accurate identification of medicine vials is crucial for emergency medical services, especially for vials that resemble one another but have different labels, volumes, and concentrations. This study introduces a method to detect vials in real-time using mixed reality technology through Microsoft HoloLens 2. The system is also equipped with an SQL server to manage barcode and vial information. We conducted a comparative analysis of the barcode detection capabilities of the HoloLens 2 camera and an external scanner. The HoloLens 2 effectively identified larger barcodes when they were 20–25 cm away in normal lighting conditions. However, it faced difficulties in detecting smaller barcodes that were consistently detected by the external scanner. The frame rate investigation revealed performance fluctuations: an average of 10.54 frames per second (fps) under standard lighting conditions, decreasing to 10.10 fps in low light and further reducing to 10.05 fps when faced with high barcode density. Resolution tests demonstrated that a screen resolution of 1920 × 1080 yielded the best level of accuracy, with a precision rate of 98%. On the other hand, a resolution of 1280 × 720 achieved a good balance between accuracy 93% and speed. The HoloLens 2 demonstrates satisfactory performance under ideal circumstances; however, enhancements in detecting algorithms and camera resolution are required to accommodate diverse surroundings. This approach seeks to help paramedics make quick and accurate decisions during critical situations and tackle common obstacles such as reliance on networks and human mistakes. Our new approach of a hybrid method that integrates an external Bluetooth scanner with the MR device gives optimal results compared to the scanner-only approach.

Mixed reality applications in upper extremity surgery: the future is now.

Mixed reality refers to the integration of virtual reality into the real-world environment. This digital content can be interacted with in real time. The emergence of mixed reality technology has been made possible by the introduction of head-mounted displays, which are being utilized across multiple surgical specialties. In upper extremity surgery, mixed reality has widespread applications in trauma, corrective surgery, arthroplasty, arthroscopy, and oncology. Preoperatively, mixed reality allows for complex 3D planning. Intraoperatively, surgeons can access this 3D data in a sterile environment. While in its infant stages, mixed reality is likely to become a powerful tool for intraoperative guidance and navigation. Mixed reality can change the paradigm of communication, as it allows the sharing of visual data from the surgeon's perspective, enabling remote assistance and participation.

The clinical application value of mixed reality in robotic laparoscopic partial nephrectomy

PurposeRobot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has become a key technology in the treatment of renal tumors. Effective preoperative planning and precise intraoperative navigation are critical to a successful surgical outcome. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical application value of mixed reality (MR) in robotic nephron-sparing partial nephrectomy for patients with renal tumors of different complexity based on the R.E.N.A.L. score.Patients and methodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 68 eligible patients with renal cancer who underwent RAPN at The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from January 2021 to December 2023, with postoperative pathology confirmation. Patients were divided into two groups: the MR group, with 28 cases, and the traditional imaging (control) group, with 40 cases. All patients underwent mid-abdominal CT plain scans and enhancements. The MR group utilized three-dimensional reconstruction of CT data and employed 3D tablets and HoloLens glasses for preoperative discussions, surgical planning, and intraoperative guidance. Collect clinical data and metrics to assess surgical outcomes, as well as evaluate performance in areas such as preoperative discussions, doctor-patient communication, surgical planning, and intraoperative navigation.ResultsCompared to robot-assisted partial nephrectomy in the control group, the MR group experienced a reduction in operation time by approximately 30 min [(135.89 ± 23.494) min vs. (165.00 ± 34.320) min, P< 0.001)] and a decrease in ischemia time by around 2.5 min [(20.36 ± 3.956) min vs. (23.80± 6.889) min, P = 0.02)]. Within the subgroup with a R.E.N.A.L. score of less than 7 points, the MR group only showed a significant reduction in operation time [(134.55 ± 150.190) min vs. (150.19 ± 28.638) min, P = 0.045], with no notable differences in other parameters. For the subgroup with a R.E.N.A.L. score of 7 points or higher, the MR group exhibited shorter operation time [(140.83 ± 25.183) min vs. (195.77 ± 23.080) min, P< 0.001] and reduced warm ischemia time [(21.17 ± 2.714) min vs. (28.85 ± 7.570) min, P = 0.029]. Additionally, there was less estimated blood loss [(53.33 ± 5.164) min vs. (114.62 ± 80.376) min, P = 0.018]. All patients had negative resection margins, indicating equivalent therapeutic outcomes between the two groups.ConclusionIn comparison to traditional RAPN, MR technology demonstrates the ability to decrease operation time and warm ischemia time all the while maintaining equivalent curative outcomes. Additionally, it enhances preoperative discussions, doctor-patient interactions, preoperative strategizing, and intraoperative navigation, particularly excelling in complex renal tumor cases of RAPN, where its benefits are most pronounced.

A Review on Mixed Reality Operating Systems : Current Trends, Challenges and Prospects

This comprehensive article explores the rapidly evolving landscape of Mixed Reality (MR) operating systems, examining their core functionalities, architectural components, and the cutting-edge trends shaping their development. The article provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges facing MR OS developers, including interoperability, scalability, and user experience optimization, while offering insights into potential solutions. A comparative article of leading MR platforms highlights the diverse approaches and capabilities within the current ecosystem. The article delves into future prospects, discussing the integration of artificial intelligence, advanced user interaction paradigms, and their potential impact across various industries. Additionally, it addresses strategies for overcoming current limitations and explores the broader implications of MR technology on society, including ethical considerations and privacy concerns. By synthesizing current research and industry developments, this paper offers a comprehensive overview of the state of MR operating systems, their potential applications, and the transformative role they are poised to play in shaping human-computer interaction and digital experiences. The article concludes by emphasizing the critical importance of continued innovation in MR operating systems for advancing the field and realizing the full potential of mixed reality technology in both personal and professional domains.

Military Medical Simulations-Scoping Review.

The military employs a wide variety of training paradigms to prepare a ready medical force. Simulation-based training is prominently used in the military for all roles of care to provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to render care from the battlefield to the hospital. The purpose of this scoping review is to synthesize the body of research in military healthcare simulation, highlight trends in the literature, and identify research gaps. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis process, the databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, and targeted conferences were searched for articles focused on simulation-based training in the military healthcare community. Inclusion criteria required that the studies assessed a healthcare simulation intervention and had military participants. Data were gathered on population parameters (branch of service and provider level) as well as study parameter (simulation modality, medical domain, and outcome measures). Outcome measures were categorized according to the Kirkpatrick model of training evaluation. A total of 43 articles met inclusion criteria. Article summaries and descriptive data on the participant populations and study parameters are provided in Tables1, 2, and Supplementary Table S1. Participant populations were inclusive of all the services and roles of care, suggesting appropriate representation of the broad military healthcare community. The majority of literature has studied physical simulations, such as manikins or task trainers. Few studies employed augmented or virtual reality as the training intervention, likely because of the nascency of the technology. Trauma care was the focus of 65% of the studies; this is attributable to the criticality of trauma care within battlefield medicine and casualty response. Related to study outcomes, participant reactions, such as usability and user acceptance, and immediate learning outcomes were heavily studied. Retention and behavioral changes were rarely studied and represent a significant research gap. Future research assessing mixed reality technologies would be beneficial to determine whether the technology warrants inclusion in programs of instruction. Finally, studies with outcome measures including long-term knowledge and skills retention, behavioral change, or patient outcomes are strongly recommended for future research.

The Use of Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality Technologies in Education: A Bibliometric and Systematic Review

This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the articles published on Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) research in the field of education. The study also aims to provide more comprehensive information on research trends by conducting a systematic review based on bibliometric analysis data. Therefore, the study was designed according to the multiple research methods. In this direction, bibliometric analysis was conducted first. After the bibliometric analysis, the systematic review technique was used to evaluate the most cited studies. VOSviewer was used to analyze bibliometric data, and the MaxQda program was used to analyze systematic review data. In the study, it was determined that educational research conducted with AR and VR started to be conducted in the 1990s. On the other hand, it was determined that the integration of MR research into education began in the mid-2000s. It was found respectively that the keywords virtual reality, augmented reality, education, medical education, simulation, and mixed reality were used more in the studies found in Web of Science. Also, it was observed that research on AR, VR, and MR was mostly conducted in the United States of America and China. On the other hand, it was concluded that the studies were published more in "Education and Information Technology" and "Interactive Learning Environment" journals. It was determined that three publications by Guido Makransky ranked in the top ten in terms of the number of citations. Similarly, Makransky ranked first among the authors who published the most articles. Finally, it was observed that the studies conducted with these technologies were mostly written by two, three, and four authors.

Exploring the acceptance of mixed reality technology innovation among mining industry workers

Mixed Reality (MR) technology is an innovative technology that has the capability to transform and boost productivity in the mining industry. At the same time, the scarcity of guidelines and research in examining the acceptance of MR technology innovation in the mining sector could make the adoption of MR technology innovation unpredictable. Therefore, in order to support the successful adoption of MR technology innovation in the mining sector, this manuscript is designed to better understand the factors influencing its acceptance among workers. Based on the literature review, five factors are hypothesized to influence the acceptance of mining industry workers regarding MR technology innovation. The factors underwent testing on a sample of 253 mining industry workers, which was obtained via an office-intercept survey and processed using SmartPLS software. The model has proven to be highly robust, as indicated by its outstanding scores in validity, reliability, multicollinearity, and goodness of fit. The results from the analysis indicate that attitude, perceived usefulness, and perceived compatibility are significant factors influencing the acceptance of MR technology innovation. While perceived novelty is an important factor affecting attitude, it does not significantly impact the acceptance of MR technology innovation. Moreover, perceived ease of use was not found to be a significant factor in influencing the attitude and intention to adopt MR technology innovation. This research offers both theoretical and managerial implications for its findings.

Optimizing DG Handling: Designing an Immersive MRsafe Training Program.

The rapid growth of e-commerce has significantly increased demands on logistics providers, particularly in the areas of product handling and shipment. One of the most challenging and critical aspects of this process is the handling of dangerous goods (DG). This is a complex and time-intensive operation that requires safety measures and proper packaging and labelling, because mishandling DG can lead to severe injuries, property loss, and legal liability. This puts additional pressure on logistics providers to efficiently manage DG while maintaining speed and safety in the context of e-commerce. To meet this challenge, there is an urgent need to advance training programs and enhance the operational efficiency for DG handling. The use of mixed reality (MR) technology offers a promising solution. By seamlessly integrating virtual elements with real-world environments, MR has the potential to greatly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the training of DG handling. Earlier research has examined MR in various fields, while there is still a research gap in applying MR specifically to the training of DG handling. This paper seeks to address the current research gap by presenting a novel MR model, named "MRSafe," for a training program on the safe handling of DG. The model offers users virtual experiences and comprehensive guidance to provide operational decision support.

Leveraging mixed reality in mitraclip implantation: A preliminary case series toward a pilot study

Abstract Introduction The advent of mixed reality (MR) technology, particularly when combined with Hololens 2.0 and specialized software for three-dimensional DICOM image visualization, offers a promising avenue for enhancing the precision and spatial awareness in interventional cardiology procedures. This case series aims to preliminarily evaluate the impact of MR on MitraClip implantation processes, setting a foundation for an ensuing comprehensive pilot study. Methods We conducted a comparative analysis within a case series of four MitraClip implantations, categorizing them into two groups based on the utilization of MR support. We examined procedural efficiency, radiation metrics (SKIA and DAP), and operator stress indicators, including cortisol levels, heart rate variability, QTc interval, and subjective assessments through NASA TLX, STAI Y, and SSQ questionnaires. Results Initial findings from the MR-assisted procedures suggest a notable improvement in procedural efficiency and a reduction in operator stress. Specifically, MR use was associated with shorter procedural times (ranging from 60 to 130 minutes) and lower radiation exposure, with SKIA durations between 15.5 and 40.5 minutes. Moreover, operators in the MR group showed reduced cortisol levels (8.2-9.2 mmol/L), indicating decreased physiological stress. Heart rate variability analysis further supported superior stress management among MR-supported operators. Subjective evaluations reinforced these physiological findings. NASA TLX scores in the MR group (13-20) markedly contrasted with those in the control group (30-45), signifying a significant reduction in perceived workload. SSQ scores remained minimal, implying good MR tolerability, and STAI Y scores (30-35) were lower than those in the control group (40-50), highlighting reduced anxiety levels during MR-assisted procedures. Conclusion This explorative case series lays the groundwork for a forthcoming pilot study, revealing MR's potential to not only streamline MitraClip implantation but also to alleviate operator stress. Both objective and subjective data advocate for expanded research to definitively ascertain MR's benefits in cardiac interventions, promising to refine procedural workflows and enhance patient outcomes. This series acts as a stepping stone towards a larger-scale evaluation that could solidify MR's role in the future of interventional cardiology.Operator's View and Technology PreviewFunction diagram

A novel training session: mixed reality evisceration surgery webinar.

Evisceration surgery is an important part of an ophthalmologist's skillset but is an uncommon procedure. Therefore, it is important for training ophthalmologists to have adequate knowledge and confidence in this procedure to maximise learning opportunities. Mixed reality involves the intertwining of real and virtual environments and has been used successfully in surgical training. To improve participants' knowledge of the relevant anatomy, steps and confidence in performing evisceration surgery using an extended reality online webinar coupled with conventional teaching. The teaching session comprised of a short lecture introducing evisceration and explaining mixed reality technology including the Microsoft HoloLens headset. This was followed by a 3D demonstration of the orbit and globe, then the live evisceration procedure on a porcine cadaver, with the surgeon's point of view via the headset. There was expert live running commentary during the procedure with the use of virtual signposts on relevant anatomy. Participants were encouraged to be interactive and given the ability to share their annotations on-screen. Ten doctors ranging from Foundation year 1 to Ophthalmology specialist training year 3 attended the 90-min session and completed pre- and post- session questionnaires (5-point Likert scales). Results showed statistically significant improvements in the knowledge, steps and confidence in performing the evisceration surgery (paired two-sample T-tests, SPSS version 29). This study has demonstrated that utilisation of mixed reality with conventional teaching methods can provide a useful initial learning experience which may facilitate effective further learning of the evisceration surgery in a wet-lab or patient setting.

Use of Mixed Reality Technologies by Orthopedic Surgery Residents: A Cross-Sectional Study of Trainee Perceptions

Introduction Recently within surgical education, the development of extended reality (XR) devices has become a topic of interest to improve trainees’ surgical technique outside of the operating room. There is a growing body of literature which supports the use of XR, and it is important to understand the perceptions of orthopedic surgery trainees on the use of XR as an adjunct during training. Purpose Understand the perceptions of orthopedic trainees on the use of XR as an adjunctive surgical training tool. Methods An internally validated 18-question survey was sent to all US orthopedic residency program coordinators with the intent for distribution to each program’s respective residents. Responses with ≥ 70% completion were considered complete. Results Overall, 33% and 18% of residents agreed XR is needed, and all programs should offer XR, respectively. There was overall agreement (67%) for XR’s ability to improve procedural confidence and improve skill progression (65% agreed). Only 25% of respondents felt XR could accurately simulate orthopedic procedures and 36% agreed it could effectively model patient-specific anatomy for preoperative planning. Regarding XR’s ability to reduce intraoperative navigational error, 45% of respondents agreed. However, responses were more neutral for XR’s ability to reduce inpatient length of stay (40%) and ability to improve the accuracy of hardware/prosthetic placement (31%). Finally, 53% of respondents agreed that the largest barrier to integration of XR is cost, while 35% felt that a lack of dedicated time to use the technology during their training program was a major barrier. Conclusion The need for adjunctive surgical training outside of the operating room is clearly demonstrated from our results. Although it is unclear if XR will become a standard tool across all residency programs, orthopedic surgery residents do feel that the technology is useful in terms of skills progression and operative confidence. Thus, this study provides a preliminary framework which suggests a potential role for XR in orthopedic surgery training and the need for further study to address barriers to widespread integration.

Exploring residents’ expectations and designers’ perspectives towards post-earthquake permanent housing: A case study in Antakya

Post-disaster permanent housing is the backbone of the recovery efforts after destructive events. It holds great potential to adopt new technological innovations and to provide improved conditions for these everyday spaces. However, previous investigations suggest that these housing projects lack consideration of the inhabitants' expectations, needs, and values due to environmental, cultural, and social factors, resulting in a dissatisfactory built environment. Following the Kahramanmaraş earthquake on February 6, 2023, this research aims to explore the expectations of affected residents in the historic district of Antakya. We expect to contribute to decision-makers, designers, and the technology industry to develop more user-centered housing recovery efforts in the aftermath of these devastating events. The findings revealed four implications from the expectations for post-earthquake homes: (1) designing for togetherness, (2) valuing community efforts and traditional work, (3) including productional activities, and lastly, (4) preserving and reminiscing heritage values. Additionally, we discussed these four implications with multi-disciplinary designers to expand the discussion space for designing post-earthquake permanent homes in Antakya. Overall, these implications suggest some future architectural changes in homes as their residents' expectations, including the creation of new heritage and production spaces using digital, physical, and mixed reality technologies, as well as the emergence of new social gathering spaces. By conducting a case study in Antakya, our research highlights the potential for the further development of post-disaster permanent homes that not only provide shelter and safety but also enhance the overall quality of life for the residents, both for Antakya and the other relevant cases worldwide.

Managementul riscurilor transformaționale ale educației matematice și informatice din Republica Moldova

The article addresses the significant transformations in mathematics and IT education in the Republic of Moldova. The challenges facing mathematics and IT education are identified: implementation of the new curriculum concept, resistance to change on the part of teachers, inadequate teacher training, lack of resources and infrastructure, risk of ineffective assessment. The principles of developing the new school curriculum focus on adapting to the sociocultural context, respecting individual learning needs, training essential skills for professional and personal life, and integrating disciplines for sustainable skills. The need to update teaching methods, including interactive and innovative approaches, the use of digital technology, and the development of critical and creative thinking are emphasized. It is proposed to create individualized learning paths and use digital educational resources to improve the learning process. As a result, continuous training of mathematics and computer science teachers is recommended through programs that include learning themes centered on pedagogical models, tools and innovative methodologies, such as the Conditional knowledge strategy, realistic mathematical education, the Flipped Classroom method, video-pedagogy, virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality technologies, to stimulate students' motivation and their active involvement in the educational process.

Application of Mixed Reality Technology in the Planning of PCNL for Special Types of Complex Upper Urinary Stones: A Pilot Study

ObjectiveTo evaluate the application of Mixed Reality technology in the planning of ultrasound-guided PCNL for special types of complex upper urinary stones. MethodsClinical data of 15 patients with complex upper urinary stones undergoing ultrasound-guided PCNL were analysed which included pelvic ectopic kidney, horseshoe kidney, spinal deformity, and transplant kidney. Based on preoperative CTU data, digital three-dimensional reconstruction is performed, and AI mixed reality is used to project three-dimensional images in real space. This facilitates preoperative design and planning. The consistency rate of target calyx and channel numbers, stone free rate, total operative time, percutaneous renal access establish time, decrease in hemoglobin level, surgical complications, and postoperative hospital stay are analyzed. ResultsAll patients underwent preoperative planning using mixed reality and successfully completed PCNL. Based on the preoperative planning, we utilized S-PCNL alone or combined with Needle-perc or antegrade/retrograde FURS. The consistency rate between preoperative planning and intraoperative completion was 87.6%. The stone free rate was 80%. The average time for establishing the main tract was 2.3±0.3 minutes, and the average total operative time was 61.5±12.2 minutes. The mean decrease in hemoglobin level was 9.6±1.2 g/L, and the average postoperative hospital stay was 4.6±0.5 days. There were no occurrences of Clavien-Dindo grade≥II complications. ConclusionPreoperative quantification and analysis of imaging data through mixed reality enable three-dimensional visualization and facilitate surgical plans, and effectively avoid the risks of surrounding organ injury in these special urinary stones cases, make complex surgeries smoother and more controllable.

The convergence of the fourth industrial revolution and mixed reality: Transforming agricultural economics in developing nations and retail experiences in the U.S.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Mixed Reality (MR) are revolutionizing industries worldwide by merging advanced digital technologies with physical environments. This paper explores the convergence of 4IR technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and big data analytics, with MR, which includes Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). Specifically, this article examines the profound impact of these technologies on two distinct sectors: agricultural economics in developing nations and retail experiences in the United States. In developing nations, the agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including resource constraints, climate change, and limited access to technology. The integration of 4IR technologies is transforming this sector by enabling precision farming, improving resource management, and optimizing supply chain processes. IoT devices and AI-powered algorithms are enhancing irrigation, fertilization, and pest control, while drones and robotics are automating labor-intensive tasks such as planting and harvesting. MR technologies, particularly AR and VR, are playing a vital role in providing virtual training for farmers, real-time monitoring of machinery, and on-site troubleshooting. These innovations significantly improve agricultural productivity and sustainability, leading to higher yields, more efficient resource use, and better livelihoods for farmers. In contrast, the retail industry in the United States is undergoing a digital transformation fueled by the rise of e-commerce and evolving consumer preferences. MR technologies are at the forefront of this transformation, offering personalized and immersive shopping experiences that enhance customer engagement. AR allows consumers to virtually try on clothing, accessories, and cosmetics, while VR creates immersive brand experiences and virtual stores. These innovations not only enhance the shopping experience but also streamline supply chain management and inventory control through AI and IoT applications. The article explores how these technologies enable retailers to deliver personalized recommendations, optimize inventory levels, and improve logistics operations. Through an in-depth analysis of case studies, this paper illustrates how the convergence of 4IR and MR technologies is driving economic growth and operational efficiency in agriculture and retail. It also highlights the challenges and barriers to technology adoption, such as financial constraints, resistance to change, and regulatory considerations. The article concludes with policy recommendations for governments, businesses, and international organizations to foster the broader implementation of 4IR and MR technologies. These recommendations include investing in digital infrastructure, promoting cross-sector collaborations, and providing incentives for technology adoption. By leveraging these advancements, developing nations can improve agricultural sustainability, and the U.S. retail industry can deliver more engaging, efficient, and personalized experiences, ultimately driving sustainable economic development.

Application of Mixed Reality Technologies in Autism Treatment and Neurodiversity Support

Abstract: This comprehensive review explores the application of Mixed Reality (MR) technologies in treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and supporting people with neurodiversity. It examines the potential of MR to create immersive, personalized interventions for social skills training, communication enhancement, and behavioral therapy. The paper discusses the technical considerations in implementing MR systems, including hardware requirements, software development, and user interface design tailored for neurodiverse individuals. It also addresses the challenges and future directions in this field, including ethical considerations, the need for clinical validation, and the integration of MR with existing therapeutic approaches. By synthesizing current research and identifying areas for future investigation, this review highlights the transformative potential of MR in revolutionizing ASD therapy and support.

Evaluating Mixed Reality Technology for Enhancing Art Pedagogy

The lack of interest among students in studying art, particularly the traditional Indonesian art form of batik, poses a significant challenge for educational institutions. Despite its cultural significance, the education sector lacks effective strategies to introduce and enhance students' interest in batik within the art curriculum. Several consequences can arise if the education sector fails to implement strategic measures to address this issue promptly. This could lead to a gradual erosion of cultural heritage and a loss of artistic traditions passed down through generations, and students may miss out on valuable opportunities for self-expression and cultural exploration. This study addresses this issue by leveraging mixed reality and gamification in a batik creation application. This innovative approach not only enhances the pedagogy of art education but also aims to revive cultural interest. The study employs Software Testing and PIECES to evaluate user experiences, emphasizing user comfort and smooth interactions. By assessing the application with tools like Unity Profiler and Hololens 2 performance testing, the study ensures an optimal user experience, contributing to the broader goal of preserving Indonesia's cultural heritage through innovative and accessible educational solutions. The results fall within the range of 4.04 to 4.24, categorizing user satisfaction as "satisfied" and the application running at an optimal 60 frames per second (FPS). This implies that users responded positively to the application, indicating that implementing mixed reality technology in batik learning provides a satisfying experience.

Enhancing surgical occlusion setting in orthognathic surgery planning using mixed reality technology: a comparative study

ObjectivesOrthognathic surgery necessitates precise occlusal alignment during surgical planning, traditionally achieved through manual alignment of physical dental models as the recognized gold standard. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of mixed reality technology in enhancing surgical occlusion setting compared to traditional physical alignment and an established virtual method, addressing the research question: Can mixed reality technology improve the accuracy and efficiency of occlusion setting in orthognathic surgery planning?Materials & methodsThis experimental study compared the surgical occlusion settings of 30 orthognathic cases using three methods: a new virtual method with mixed reality technology, the traditional gold standard of physical alignment, and an established virtual occlusion method using the IPS Case Designer (KLS Martin SE & Co. KG, Tuttlingen, Germany).ResultsResults indicated that surgical occlusions set with mixed reality technology were comparable to the conventional method in terms of maxillary movement and occlusal relationship. Differences observed were within the inter-observer variability of the gold standard. Both virtual methods tended to position the maxilla more anteriorly, resulting in fewer occlusal contacts. However, virtual occlusion demonstrated clinical applicability, achieving an average of 11 occlusal contacts with a bilaterally symmetrical distribution along the dental arch.ConclusionsThe mixed reality environment provides an intuitive and flexible experience for setting surgical occlusion, eliminating the need for costly 3D-printed physical models or the automatic calculations required by other virtual occlusion methods, thereby offering maximum freedom.Clinical relevanceAs a novel form of virtual occlusion, it presents a comprehensive tool that contributes to a timely and cost-effective full digital workflow of orthognathic surgery planning.