Virtual Reality-based Training Research Articles

Virtual reality-based training may improve visual memory and some aspects of sustained attention among healthy older adults – preliminary results of a randomized controlled study

Background/AimsOlder age and cognitive inactivity have been associated with cognitive impairment, which in turn is linked to economic and societal burdens due to the high costs of care, especially for care homes and informal care. Emerging non-pharmacological interventions using new technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) delivered on a head-mounted display (HMD), might offer an alternative to maintain or improve cognition. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a VR-based Digital Therapeutics application for improving cognitive functions among healthy older adults.MethodsSeventy-two healthy seniors (experimental group N = 35, control group N = 37), aged 65–85 years, were recruited by the Medical University of Lodz (Poland). Participants were randomly allocated to the experimental group (a VR-based cognitive training which consists of a warm-up module and three tasks, including one-back and dual-N-back) or to the control group (a regular VR headset app only showing nature videos). The exercises are performed in different 360-degree natural environments while listening to a preferred music genre and delivered on a head-mounted display (HMD). The 12-week intervention of 12 min was delivered at least three times per week (36 sessions). Compliance and performance were followed through a web-based application. Primary outcomes included attention and working memory (CNS-Vital Signs computerized cognitive battery). Secondary outcomes comprised other cognitive domains. Mixed linear models were constructed to elucidate the difference in pre- and post-intervention measures between the experimental and control groups.ResultsThe users performed, on average, 39.8 sessions (range 1–100), and 60% performed more than 36 sessions. The experimental group achieved higher scores in the visual memory module (B = 7.767, p = 0.011) and in the one-back continuous performance test (in terms of correct responses: B = 2.057, p = 0.003 and omission errors: B = -1.950, p = 0.007) than the control group in the post-test assessment. The results were independent of participants’ sex, age, and years of education. The differences in CNS Vital Signs’ global score, working memory, executive function, reaction time, processing speed, simple and complex attention, verbal memory, cognitive flexibility, motor speed, and psychomotor speed were not statistically significant.ConclusionsVR-based cognitive training may prove to be a valuable, efficacious, and well-received tool in terms of improving visual memory and some aspect of sustainability of attention among healthy older adults. This is a preliminary analysis based on part of the obtained results to that point. Final conclusions will be drawn after the analysis of the target sample size.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov ID NCT05369897.

The Development of a Virtual Reality-based Training System for Prosthetic Foot Users: Effects on Motion Sickness and Postural Stability

The Development of a Virtual Reality-based Training System for Prosthetic Foot Users: Effects on Motion Sickness and Postural Stability

The effect of gender on emotional reactions and perceptions when individuals meet themselves in immersive virtual reality

Immersive virtual reality-based training and research are becoming more and more popular and are in continuous development. For instance, it is now possible to be trained by one’s virtual self (i.e., doppelganger), meaning that a trainee can participate in a training program in which the trainer resembles the trainee. While past research involving doppelgangers showed promising results, findings revealed gender effects such that doppelganger-based training seems to be beneficial only for male trainees. In the present research, we contribute to this literature by investigating the emotional reactions and perceptions that people have when they meet a virtual human in immersive virtual reality. Specifically, we assess the extent to which the appearance of the virtual human (doppelganger vs. unknown avatar) and an individual’s gender influence these reactions and perceptions. We found that males felt more positive emotions toward their doppelganger than toward the unknown avatar and that females perceived their doppelganger as less competent and warm than the unknown avatar. Our findings have important practical implications in terms of virtual reality-based training and research design such that the use of a doppelganger (unknown avatar) might be recommended in a training program or research setting involving men (women).

Design and development of a personalized virtual reality-based training system for vascular intervention surgery

Background and objectivesVirtual training has emerged as an exceptionally effective approach for training healthcare practitioners in the field of vascular intervention surgery. By providing a simulated environment and blood vessel model that enables repeated practice, virtual training facilitates the acquisition of surgical skills in a safe and efficient manner for trainees. However, the current state of research in this area is characterized by limitations in the fidelity of blood vessel and guidewire models, which restricts the effectiveness of training. Additionally, existing approaches lack the necessary real-time responsiveness and precision, while the blood vessel models suffer from incompleteness and a lack of scientific rigor. MethodsTo address these challenges, this paper integrates position-based dynamics (PBD) and its extensions, shape matching, and Cosserat elastic rods. By combining these approaches within a unified particle framework, accurate and realistic deformation simulation of personalized blood vessel and guidewire models is achieved, thereby enhancing the training experience. Furthermore, a multi-level progressive continuous collision detection method, leveraging spatial hashing, is proposed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of collision detection. ResultsOur proposed blood vessel model demonstrated acceptable performance with the reduced deformation simulation response times of 7 ms, improving the real-time capability at least of 43.75 %. Experimental validation confirmed that the guidewire model proposed in this paper can dynamically adjust the density of its elastic rods to alter the degree of bending and torsion. It also exhibited a deformation process comparable to that of real guidewires, with an average response time of 6 ms. In the interaction of blood vessel and guidewire models, the simulator blood vessel model used for coronary vascular intervention training exhibited an average response time of 15.42 ms, with a frame rate of approximately 64 FPS. ConclusionsThe method presented in this paper achieves deformation simulation of both vascular and guidewire models, demonstrating sufficient real-time performance and accuracy. The interaction efficiency between vascular and guidewire models is enhanced through the unified simulation framework and collision detection. Furthermore, it can be integrated with virtual training scenarios within the system, making it suitable for developing more advanced vascular interventional surgery training systems.

Efficacy of a virtual reality-based cognitive interactive training program for children with traumatic brain injuries: study protocol for a parallel-group randomized controlled trial

BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of disability in children. Cognitive rehabilitation for this population is critical for their long-term health outcomes. This trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of a virtual reality-based program (VICT) for training executive functions in children with TBI.MethodsA parallel group randomized controlled trial will be conducted among up to 32 children with TBI. Children in the intervention group will receive the VICT training while children in the control group will play a comparable VR game without executive function training. Each participant will be assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Outcomes will include core executive functions, attention, and health-related quality of life measured by computerized tasks or standardized questionnaires.DiscussionCognitive rehabilitation is among the top healthcare needs for pediatric TBI patients. Virtual reality-based training is promising due to its versatile content, flexibility, and potential cost savings for both patients and providers. Findings of this trial will provide data on the efficacy of the VICT program on core executive functions, attention problems, and health-related quality of life and serve as the empirical foundation for future larger multi-site effectiveness trials.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04526639. Registered on August 18, 2020.

Learning experience design of verbal prompts in virtual reality-based training for autistic children

This study aimed to explore the design and development of verbal prompts in virtual reality (VR)-based social skills training for autistic children. Autism indicates a category with neurodiversity that influences individuals’ capability to engage in social and cognitive tasks. This complex neurodevelopmental condition manifests in a wide array of patterns, featuring unique experiences of each individual. This study explored both advantages and challenges encountered when autistic children interact with verbal prompts in multi-user, desktop VR-based social skills training. Our explanatory case study involved VR-based learning experiences of four autistic children. We used a qualitative thematic analysis to analyse the study participants’ interaction patterns with verbal prompts in the VR-based training. Our research can contribute to both theoretical knowledge and practical design guidelines for the creation of verbal prompts in desktop VR-based training programmes tailored for autistic children.

Use and Effectiveness of Innovative Virtual Reality Application in Teaching Fetal Development: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Virtual reality-based training is effective. It is increasingly used by multiple disciplines to develop observation and critical skills, including engineering, education, arts, and health. This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the application created with Fetal Development Application Created by Virtual Reality Technology, which was developed to teach fetal development. The study was conducted in a single-blind, randomized fashion. Undergraduate midwifery students who took normal pregnancy lessons and learned fetal development were included. Eighty-four students were included in the experimental (n = 42) and control (n = 42) groups. Before the training, a personal information form and a pretest were applied to both groups. After the pretest, the experimental group received Fetal Development Application Created by Virtual Reality Technology, and the control group received 2 hours of theory training. Posttest was applied to both groups 6 weeks after the application. Preintervention scores were similar for the two groups. The posttest score of the experimental group was statistically significant compared with that of the control group (P < .05). The mean cognitive load score of the experimental group was 1.09 ± 0.29, and the application did not create a cognitive load. The innovative application of Fetal Development Application Created by Virtual Reality Technology is an effective and applicable method in teaching fetal development in midwifery education.

Developing Independent Skills Using a Virtual Reality-Based Training Program for Children with Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome (DS) have difficulties developing independent skills (IS), which affects their ability to carry out daily tasks and social interaction. To develop these children’s skills and enhance their independence, this study aimed to develop the IS of children with moderate DS through a training program based on virtual reality (VR). The study sample consisted of 18 male students with DS at the “Obour Day Care” Center in Al-Ahsa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Their ages ranged from 8–12 years (mean age = 9.45, standard deviation ± 1.47). The study took a quasi-experimental approach, and the research tools were the Independence Skills Scale (ISS) prepared by Badawi (2018) and a training program developed by the researcher. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the mean ranks of the first experimental group (to which the VR program was applied) on the ISS for the pre- and post-measurements in favor of the post-measurement (z = -2.207, p = 0.027). There was also a statistically significant difference between the mean ranks of the second experimental group (to which the regular program was applied) on the ISS in the pre- and post-measurements in favor of the post-measurement (z = -2.201, p = 0.028). There was no statistically significant difference between the mean ranks of the control group (which was not exposed to any intervention) on the ISS in the pre- and post-measurements (z = -0.647, p = 0.518). In addition, there were statistically significant differences between the mean ranks of the three groups on the ISS in the post-measurement (x2 = 15.284, p &lt; 0.001) in favor of the first experimental group, followed by the second experimental group. Based on the results, it is recommended that a training program based on VR be integrated into various training and educational programs targeting children with moderate DS, in order to enhance their independence and develop their skills.&#x0D; &#x0D; Received: 2 January 2024 / Accepted: 27 February 2024 / Published: 5 March 2024

Impact of Virtual Reality Simulation on New Nurses' Assessment of Pediatric Respiratory Distress.

Children often experience respiratory illnesses requiring bedside nurses skilled in recognizing respiratory decompensation. Historically, recognizing respiratory distress has relied on teaching during direct patient care. Virtual reality simulation may accelerate such recognition among novice nurses. To determine whether a virtual reality curriculum improved new nurses' recognition of respiratory distress and impending respiratory failure in pediatric patients based on assessment of physical examination findings and appropriate escalation of care. New nurses (n = 168) were randomly assigned to complete either an immersive virtual reality curriculum on recognition of respiratory distress (intervention) or the usual orientation curriculum (control). Group differences and changes from 3 months to 6 months after the intervention were examined. Nurses in the intervention group were significantly more likely to correctly recognize impending respiratory failure at both 3 months (23.4% vs 3.0%, P < .001) and 6 months (31.9% vs 2.6%, P < .001), identify respiratory distress without impending respiratory failure at 3 months (57.8% vs 29.6%, P = .002) and 6 months (57.9% vs 17.8%, P < .001), and recognize patients' altered mental status at 3 months (51.4% vs 18.2%, P < .001) and 6 months (46.8% vs 18.4%, P = .006). Implementation of a virtual reality-based training curriculum was associated with improved recognition of pediatric respiratory distress, impending respiratory failure, and altered mental status at 3 and 6 months compared with standard training approaches. Virtual reality may offer a new approach to nurse orientation to enhance training in pediatrics-specific assessment skills.

Virtual Reality-Based Training in Chronic Low Back Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Low back pain is one of the most prevalent pain conditions worldwide. Virtual reality-based training has been used for low back pain as a new treatment strategy. Present evidence indicated that the effectiveness of virtual reality-based training for people with chronic low back pain is inconclusive. This study conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the immediate- and short-term effects of virtual reality-based training on pain, pain-related fear, and disability in people with chronic low back pain. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PEDro, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases from inception until January 2024. Only randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of virtual reality-based training on individuals with chronic low back pain were selected. The outcomes were focused on pain, pain-related fear measured by the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, and disability measured by the Oswestry Disability Index. The immediate term was defined as the immediate period after intervention, and the short term was defined as 3 to 6 months after intervention. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach were used to evaluate the quality of the methodology and evidence, respectively. In total, 20 randomized controlled trials involving 1059 patients were eligible for analysis. Virtual reality-based training showed significant improvements in pain (mean difference [MD] -1.43; 95% CI -1.86 to -1.00; I2=95%; P<.001), pain-related fear using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (MD -5.46; 95% CI -9.40 to 1.52; I2=90%; P=.007), and disability using the Oswestry Disability Index (MD -11.50; 95% CI -20.00 to -3.01; I2=95%; P=.008) in individuals with chronic low back pain immediately after interventions. However, there were no significant differences observed in pain (P=.16), pain-related fear (P=.10), and disability (P=.43) in the short term. These findings indicated that virtual reality-based training can be used effectively for individuals with chronic low back pain in the immediate term, especially to reduce pain, alleviate pain-related fear, and improve disability. However, the short-term benefits need more high-quality trials to be demonstrated. PROSPERO CRD42021292633; http://tinyurl.com/25mydxpz.

Efficacy of virtual reality-based training programs and games on the improvement of cognitive disorders in patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionCognitive impairments present challenges for patients, impacting memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Virtual reality (VR) offers innovative ways to enhance cognitive function and well-being. This study explores the effects of VR-based training programs and games on improving cognitive disorders.MethodsPubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched until May 20, 2023. Two researchers selected and extracted data based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, resolving disagreements through consultation with two other authors. Inclusion criteria required studies of individuals with any cognitive disorder engaged in at least one VR-based training session, reporting cognitive impairment data via scales like the MMSE. Only English-published RCTs were considered, while exclusion criteria included materials not primarily focused on the intersection of VR and cognitive disorders. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the MMAT tool. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s test. The collected data were utilized to calculate the standardized mean differences (Hedges’s g) between the treatment and control groups. The heterogeneity variance was estimated using the Q test and I2 statistic. The analysis was conducted using Stata version 17.0.ResultsTen studies were included in the analysis out of a total of 3,157 retrieved articles. VR had a statistically significant improvement in cognitive impairments among patients (Hedges’s g = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.68; p_value = 0.05). games (Hedges’s g = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.39; p_value = 0.20) had a more significant impact on cognitive impairment improvement compared to cognitive training programs (Hedges’s g = 0.29, 95% CI: -0.11, 0.69; p_value = 0.24). The type of VR intervention was a significant moderator of the heterogeneity between studies.ConclusionVR-based interventions have demonstrated promise in enhancing cognitive function and addressing cognitive impairment, highlighting their potential as valuable tools in improving care for individuals with cognitive disorders. The findings underscore the relevance of incorporating virtual reality into therapeutic approaches for cognitive disorders.

Applying multimodal data fusion to track autistic adolescents’ representational flexibility development during virtual reality-based training

In our study, we harnessed multimodal data to develop a predictive model aimed at assessing the development of representational flexibility (RF) in autistic adolescents engaged in virtual reality (VR)-based cognitive skills training. Recognizing VR's potential to enhance RF through immersive 3D simulation tasks, we addressed the research gap in analyzing learners' digital interactions within this environment. This data mining study integrated diverse data sources—including behavioral cues, physiological responses, and direct interaction logs—collected from 178 training sessions with eight autistic adolescents. This comprehensive dataset, encompassing both audio and screen recordings, was analyzed using advanced machine learning techniques. Through decision-level data fusion, particularly employing the random forest algorithm, our model demonstrated enhanced accuracy in predicting RF development, surpassing single-source data approaches. This research not only contributes to the effective use of VR in educational interventions for autistic adolescents but also showcases the potential of multimodal data fusion in understanding complex cognitive skills development.

The Effects of Virtual Reality Training on Cognition in Older Adults: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials.

The aim of this systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression was to examine the effects of virtual reality-based training on global cognition and executive function compared with conventional training or information-based treatment in older adults, regardless of cognitive level. A systematic literature search was conducted using four databases. A total of 31 randomized controlled trials were identified. Pooled effect sizes were calculated, the risk of bias was assessed, and evidence was graded. The primary analyses showed a small but statistically significant effect of virtual reality-based training compared with control on global cognition (Hedges' g 0.42, 95% confidence interval [0.17, 0.68], I2 = 70.1%, n = 876, 20 randomized controlled trials, low evidence) and executive function (Hedges' g 0.35, 95% confidence interval [0.06, 0.65], I2 = 68.4%, n = 810, 16 randomized controlled trials, very low evidence). Meta-regression yielded inconclusive results. Virtual reality-based training may be more effective than control in improving cognition in older adults; however, more high-quality studies are needed.

Virtual Reality-Based Training in Additive Manufacturing: Developing a Service Concept that Adapts to Company-Specific Requirements

Additive manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D printing, has vast amount of technological opportunities, but it also necessitates specialized expertise among its specialists, adopters, users etc. As AM continues to demonstrate its potential and has high growth rates in fields of its use, applications, systems etc., the importance of AM education and training becomes increasingly evident. This paper serves as a preliminary study outlining a novel training concept for industrial AM training including microlearning units and conducted in virtual reality, focusing on the accessibility and flexibility of users. The concept has been developed as part of the ongoing industrial training project. Microlearning and virtual tool-assisted training methods offer effective and agile approaches to enhance the continuous learning of new industrial skills, enabling companies to keep pace with evolving technologies. These tools facilitate extensive customization of training, making company-specific training even more crucial for effective skill development and knowledge transfer. The design of this training concept leverages the user story mapping (USM) method, enabling a deeper understanding of company-specific requirements and needs concerning additive manufacturing training. Moreover, through questionnaires and interviews conducted during the USM process helps identify technology readiness levels (TRLs) of companies in relation to their AM adoption. Measuring TRLs provides valuable insights into the technical maturity of companies regarding additive manufacturing, as readiness levels tend to vary significantly among different organizations. The preliminary framework provided serves as a foundation for designing a modern training concept that cater to the unique requirements of different companies, fostering their successful adoption of AM technologies.

Enhancing Empathy in Nursing Education: A Feasibility and Usability Study of Virtual Reality-based Training for Dementia Care

Background: Virtual reality (VR) is recognized as a versatile training tool across various domains, including healthcare. In Jordan, dementia is a significant public health concern, accounting for 5.17% of all recorded deaths. Given the complex nature of dementia care, preparing nursing students is crucial. Purpose: This paper explores the feasibility and effectiveness of VR-based empathy training for nursing students, with a growing global interest in VR training applications, despite the need for further study of VR acceptability in the Jordanian context. Methods: This mixed-methods study included 71 nursing students in a psychiatric course at a university in Jordan. Feasibility was assessed through recruitment, retention, adherence, data completion, and implementation fidelity. Pre- and post-intervention assessments measured empathy levels. Thematic analysis of participant feedback provided insights into usability. Results: Recruitment and retention rates were excellent, with a 100% participation rate and 100% retention. The intervention demonstrated a statistically significant enhancement in empathy scores following the program (M_pre = 50.44, SD_pre = 9.24; M_post = 65.17, SD_post = 8.53), t (71) = -23.89, p &lt; 0.001. The thematic analysis highlighted the importance of a user-friendly interface, a supportive learning environment, and engaging content. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of VR-based training to enhance empathy among nursing students in the context of dementia care. The robust feasibility outcomes and positive user experiences suggest that VR technology can be a valuable addition to nursing curricula, ultimately benefiting patient care and the nursing workforce. Implications for Nursing: Integrating VR into nursing education presents the potential for elevating empathy in nursing students, notably within dementia care. This innovative approach equips prospective healthcare providers with vital skills for delivering more compassionate patient care. Keywords: Dementia, Nursing education, Empathy, Virtual reality, Feasibility studies, Patient-centered care.

Enhancing attention in autism spectrum disorder: comparative analysis of virtual reality-based training programs using physiological data

BackgroundThe ability to maintain attention is crucial for achieving success in various aspects of life, including academic pursuits, career advancement, and social interactions. Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a common symptom associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which can pose challenges for individuals affected by it, impacting their social interactions and learning abilities. To address this issue, virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool for attention training with the ability to create personalized virtual worlds, providing a conducive platform for attention-focused interventions. Furthermore, leveraging physiological data can be instrumental in the development and enhancement of attention-training techniques for individuals.MethodsIn our preliminary study, a functional prototype for attention therapy systems was developed. In the current phase, the objective is to create a framework called VR-PDA (Virtual Reality Physiological Data Analysis) that utilizes physiological data for tracking and improving attention in individuals. Four distinct training strategies such as noise, score, object opacity, and red vignette are implemented in this framework. The primary goal is to leverage virtual reality technology and physiological data analysis to enhance attentional capabilities.ResultsOur data analysis results revealed that reinforcement training strategies are crucial for improving attention in individuals with ASD, while they are not significant for non-autistic individuals. Among all the different strategies employed, the noise strategy demonstrates superior efficacy in training attention among individuals with ASD. On the other hand, for Non-ASD individuals, no specific training proves to be effective in enhancing attention. The total gazing time feature exhibited benefits for participants with and without ASD.DiscussionThe results consistently demonstrated favorable outcomes for both groups, indicating an enhanced level of attentiveness. These findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of different strategies for attention training and emphasize the potential of virtual reality (VR) and physiological data in attention training programs for individuals with ASD. The results of this study open up new avenues for further research and inspire future developments.

Reimagining Healthcare: Unleashing the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has opened new medical avenues and revolutionized diagnostic and therapeutic practices, allowing healthcare providers to overcome significant challenges associated with cost, disease management, accessibility, and treatment optimization. Prominent AI technologies such as machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) have immensely influenced diagnostics, patient monitoring, novel pharmaceutical discoveries, drug development, and telemedicine. Significant innovations and improvements in disease identification and early intervention have been made using AI-generated algorithms for clinical decision support systems and disease prediction models. AI has remarkably impacted clinical drug trials by amplifying research into drug efficacy, adverse events, and candidate molecular design. AI's precision and analysis regarding patients' genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors have led to individualized treatment strategies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, AI-assisted telemedicine set a precedent for remote healthcare delivery and patient follow-up. Moreover, AI-generated applications and wearable devices have allowed ambulatory monitoring of vital signs. However, apart from being immensely transformative, AI's contribution to healthcare is subject to ethical and regulatory concerns. AI-backed data protection and algorithm transparency should be strictly adherent to ethical principles. Vigorous governance frameworks should be in place before incorporating AI in mental health interventions through AI-operated chatbots, medical education enhancements, and virtual reality-based training. The role of AI in medical decision-making has certain limitations, necessitating the importance of hands-on experience. Therefore, reaching an optimal balance between AI's capabilities and ethical considerations to ensure impartial and neutral performance in healthcare applications is crucial. This narrative review focuses on AI's impact on healthcare and the importance of ethical and balanced incorporation to make use of its full potential.

A Human Factors Approach to Improve Layout Design for A Virtual Reality-based Training Platform

In manufacturing industries, equipment arrangement, and layout design are critical factors that directly influence productivity, workplace safety, and workers’ performance. Link analysis, as a human factors approach, has been widely used in industries for many years to improve layout design and machinery arrangement. This approach considers humans' physical and cognitive capabilities and movement limitations to find an optimal design. Virtual reality significantly impacts our society from product design to worker training. Hence, effective virtual training platforms require the same attention to layout design as manufacturing work settings which offer efficient testing of multiple layouts. This research focuses on developing a virtual 3D printing laboratory for workforce training and has used a link analysis and user perception study to improve the layout of the virtual workplace. The research demonstrates the importance of layout design in virtual training platforms and the potential benefits of utilizing link analysis in optimizing layout design.

Virtual reality-based training and pre-operative planning for head and neck sentinel lymph node biopsy

ObjectiveSentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is crucial for managing head and neck skin cancer. However, variable lymphatic drainage can complicate SLN detection when using Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) or lymphoscintigraphy. Virtual Reality (VR) can contribute to pre-operative planning by simulating a realistic 3D model, which improves orientation. VR can also facilitate real-patient training outside the operating room. This study explored using a VR platform for pre-operative planning in head and neck skin cancer patients undergoing SLNBs and assessed its value for residential training. Materials and methodsIn this prospective technology pilot study, attending surgeons and residents who performed 21 SLNB operations on patients with head and neck skin cancers (81% males, mean age 69.2 ± 11.3) used a VR simulation model based on each patient's pre-operative SPECT scan to examine patient-specific anatomy. After surgery, they completed a questionnaire on the efficiency of the VR simulation as a pre-operative planning tool and training device for residents. ResultsThe attending surgeons rated the VR model's accuracy at 8.3 ± 1.6 out of 10. Three-quarters (76%) of residents reported increased confidence after using VR. The physicians rated the platform's contribution to residents' training at 7.4 ± 2.1 to 8.9 ± 1.3 out of 10. ConclusionA VR SLNB simulation can accurately portray marked sentinel lymph nodes. It was rated high as a surgical planning and teaching tool among attending surgeons and residents alike and may play a role in pre-operative planning and resident training. Further studies are needed to explore its applications in practice.

Effectiveness of Virtual Reality on the Caregiving Competence and Empathy of Caregivers for Elderly with Chronic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Aims. To synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of virtual reality-based training of caregivers for the elderly with chronic diseases. Background. With a growing number of elderly suffering from chronic diseases, caregivers who lack the necessary caregiving skills and competence need practical training. Nowadays, virtual reality in training is a promising approach due to technological advancements. Evaluation. We did a comprehensive search in the following six electronic databases (Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, SCOPUS, MEDLINE, and CINAHL) from their inception to April 2022 for original studies. We searched clinical trial registries of Clinical Trials.gov, International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) Registry, and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), for clinical trials. Key Issues. 7610 searched records were yielded, of which nine studies (four randomized controlled trials and five nonrandomized controlled trials) met the eligibility criteria and were included with 1090 caregivers. There was a small but significant overall effect of virtual reality-based interventions on caregivers’ caregiving competence (effect size = 0.362, 95% CI 0.181–0.543, p &lt; 0.001 , I2 = 25.636). The subgroup analysis results showed significant improvement in caregiving competence in caregivers trained by the Dementia LiveTM program (effect size = 0.322, 95% CI 0.046–0.597, p = 0.022 ). Regarding empathy, we did not find a statistically significant overall effect. The subgroup analysis results indicated that caregivers showed improvement in empathy after exposure to the Into D’mentia program (effect size = 0.265, 95% CI 0.015–0.515, p = 0.037 ). Conclusions. Findings of our meta-analysis demonstrated that virtual reality could have merits for improving the caregiving competence of caregivers taking care of the elderly with chronic diseases. Implications for Nursing Management. Virtual reality may be a training alternative for caregivers to improve their caregiving competence. However, empowering the embodiment of virtual reality programs remains a technological challenge that needs to be addressed in the future.