Efficacy Of Virtual Reality Research Articles

Efficacy of virtual reality on balance impairment in ataxic cerebral palsy children: randomized controlled trial.

Children with ataxic cerebral palsy have unsteady movements and poor balance. Many therapeutic interventions are used to improve their upper and lower functioning. To assess the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) on balance impairment in ataxic cerebral palsy children. RCT. Sixty-four children with ataxic cerebral palsy. Children were randomly assigned into two equal groups with 32 patients in each group. The control group received a specially developed physical therapy program and the VR group received VR training on a Wii balance board in addition to the control group's program. For three successive months the intervention program was implemented three times a week for both groups. Stability indices (overall, anteroposterior, and mediolateral) were measured using the Biodex balance system and Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) at baseline and after three months of intervention for both groups. At the beginning of the intervention, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups (P>0.05). However, following three months of the intervention, there was a statistically significant decline in the stability index scores., as well as a statistically significant improvement in the score of the PBS in both groups with a notable advancement in favor of the VR group (P≤0.05). Adding VR training on a Wii balance board to a designed physical therapy program has a significant impact on improving balance deficits in ataxic cerebral palsy children. VR has a therapeutic effect on improving balance that may result in better and more efficient rehabilitation program of children with ataxic cerebral palsy.

Comparison of Heart Rate Variability Psychological Responses and Performance in Virtual and Real Archery.

This study examines the psychophysiological differences between virtual reality (VR) and real archery. It explores whether VR archery induces heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and breathing rates similar to those experienced in real archery. Additionally, the study assesses differences in perceived anxiety, difficulty, confidence, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and shooting performance between the two modalities, providing insights into the efficacy of VR as a training tool for archery. Twenty-two (women: 8) individuals aged 20-24 participated in the study. We first recorded individuals' resting HR, HRV, and breathing rates during baseline. Afterward, participants shot 10 real and virtual arrows from 18m, whereas their HR, HRV, and breathing rate were measured, each lasting 4min. Performance in VR and real archery was determined separately as the sum of the shots. We performed paired sample t-tests to compare individuals' performance, psychological, and psychophysiological responses recorded during VR and real arrow shooting. Afterward, we compared percentage changes between VR and real archery. Results showed that HR and root mean square of successive differences (RMMSD) were significantly higher during real archery compared to virtual archery. In addition, VR archery led to a greater percentage change in RMSSD compared to real archery. Participants reported greater RPE and perceived difficulty after real archery. Performance was also higher during VR archery than real archery. Consequently, the results of the present study illustrated that VR, and real archery might lead to different autonomic response patterns in terms of vagal activity.

Efficacy of virtual reality and augmented reality in anatomy education: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

AbstractAnatomy is the cornerstone of medical education. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are becoming increasingly popular in the development of anatomy education. Various studies have evaluated VR and AR in anatomy education. This meta‐analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of VR and AR in anatomical education. The protocol was registered in Prospero. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. From the 4487 articles gathered, 24 randomized controlled trials were finally selected according to inclusion criteria. According to the results of the meta‐analysis, VR had a moderate and significant effect on the improvement of knowledge scores in comparison with other methods (standardized mean difference = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.22, 0.95; p < 0.01). Due to the high degree of heterogeneity (I 2 = 87.44%), subgroup analyses and meta‐regression were performed on eight variables. In enhancing the “attitude,” VR was found to be more “useful” than other methods (p = 0.01); however, no significant difference was found for “enjoyable” and “easy to use” statements. Compared with other methods, the effect of AR on knowledge scores was non‐significant (SMD = −0.02; 95% CI = −0.39, 0.34; p = 0.90); also, in subgroup analyses and meta‐regression, the results were non‐significant. The results indicate that, unlike AR, VR could be used as an effective tool for teaching anatomy in medical education. Given the observed heterogeneity across the included studies, further research is warranted to identify those variables that may impact the efficacy of VR and AR in anatomy education.

Virtual Reality-Based Psychoeducation for Dementia Caregivers: The Link between Caregivers' Characteristics and Their Sense of Presence.

In neuropsychology and clinical psychology, the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) experiences for knowledge acquisition and the potential for modifying conduct are well documented. Consequently, the scope of VR experiences for educational purposes has expanded in the health field in recent years. In this study, we sought to assess the effectiveness of ViveDe in a psychoeducational caregiver program. ViveDe is a VR application that presents users with possible daily life situations from the perspective of individuals with dementia. These situations can be experienced in immersive mode through 360° video. This research aimed to ascertain the associations between the sense of presence that can be achieved in VR and some users' psychological characteristics, such as distress and empathetic disposition. The study involved 36 informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. These participants were assessed using scales of anxiety and depression, perceived stress, empathy, and emotional regulation. They were asked to participate in a six-session psychoeducation program conducted online on dementia topics, in addition to experiencing the ViveDe application. The immersive VR sessions enabled the caregivers to directly experience the symptoms of dementia (e.g., spatial disorientation, agnosia, difficulty in problem-solving, and anomia) in everyday and social settings. The results indicated that although the experience in ViveDe (evaluated using the XRPS scale and five questions about emotional attunement) showed efficacy in producing a sense of first-person participation in the symptoms of dementia, further research is needed to confirm this. The structural equation model provided evidence that the characteristics of individuals who enjoy the VR experience play a determining role in the perceived sense of presence, which in turn affects the efficacy of the VR experience as a psychoeducational tool. Further research will be conducted to ascertain the potential role of these elements in conveying change in the caregivers of people with dementia. This will help us study the long-term effectiveness of a large-scale psychoeducation program in VR.

Leveraging VR in the Age of the Metaverse: Opportunities and Challenges in Private Pilot Licence Training

In the age of the Metaverse, Virtual Reality (VR) training could enhance facilitation of the Aeroplane Private Pilot Licence (PPL) training. Hence, the research objective of this study revolves around the opportunities and challenges faced by pilot trainees while utilising medium-fidelity VR during PPL training. The qualitative research methodology aligned with the ontological perspective that emphasised subjectivism. The epistemological framework has been based on the interpretivism paradigm. This research employed a grounded theory technique and utilised semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection method. The findings derived from thematic analysis suggest that a significant proportion of pilot trainees agree with VR's efficacy in theoretical instruction, pre-flight aeroplane inspection, and procedure training. However, the trainees shared their isolating experiences and challenges in acquiring specific competencies and issues developing their motor skills while using VR. These findings are anticipated to be utilised to develop VR instructional frameworks that could facilitate future PPL training

Apple Vision Pro’s new technology as a head-mounted perimetry device for glaucoma and other potential applications

Abstract Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and poses a significant public health challenge. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma and is marked by progressive optic nerve damage and peripheral visual field loss. Early detection and management of glaucoma are essential to prevent severe vision impairment. Perimetry measures visual field sensitivity and is a crucial tool for diagnosing and the progression of glaucoma. However, traditional perimetry devices are bulky, expensive, and require specialized settings, thereby limiting their accessibility. Studies indicate the evolving role of portable and home-based visual field testing, where the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) devices such as the VisuALL against traditional perimetry tools. Apple Vision Pro’s integration into glaucoma management could address the limitations of conventional perimetry, and thus making monitoring more feasible and less burdensome. In this manuscript, we explore the potential of Apple Vision Pro’s technology as a head-mounted perimetry device for glaucoma. The Apple Vision Pro headset leverages advances in augmented reality and wearable computing to offer a portable, cost-effective solution for visual field testing. Its compact design enables patients to perform tests at home, thus reducing the need for clinical visits and improving adherence to monitoring protocols. This portability is also particularly beneficial in space environments, such as on the International Space Station, where regular monitoring of visual health of astronauts is critical.

Immersive Virtual Reality Use in Medical Intensive Care: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study.

Immersive virtual reality (VR) is a promising therapy to improve the experience of patients with critical illness and may help avoid postdischarge functional impairments. However, the determinants of interest and usability may vary locally and reports of uptake in the literature are variable. The aim of this mixed methods feasibility study was to assess the acceptability and potential utility of immersive VR in critically ill patients at a single institution. Adults without delirium who were admitted to 1 of 2 intensive care units were offered the opportunity to participate in 5-15 minutes of immersive VR delivered by a VR headset. Patient vital signs, heart rate variability, mood, and pain were assessed before and after the VR experience. Pre-post comparisons were performed using paired 2-sided t tests. A semistructured interview was administered after the VR experience. Patient descriptions of the experience, issues, and potential uses were summarized with thematic analysis. Of the 35 patients offered the chance to participate, 20 (57%) agreed to partake in the immersive VR experience, with no difference in participation rate by age. Improvements were observed in overall mood (mean difference 1.8 points, 95% CI 0.6-3.0; P=.002), anxiety (difference of 1.7 points, 95% CI 0.8-2.7; P=.001), and pain (difference of 1.3 points, 95% CI 0.5-2.1; P=.003) assessed on 1-10 scales. The heart rate changed by a mean of -1.1 (95% CI -0.3 to -1.9; P=.008) beats per minute (bpm) from a baseline of 86.1 (SD 11.8) bpm and heart rate variability, assessed by the stress index (SI), changed by a mean of -5.0 (95% CI -1.5 to -8.5; P=.004) seconds-2 from a baseline SI of 40.0 (SD 23) seconds-2. Patients commented on the potential for the therapy to address pain, lessen anxiety, and facilitate calmness. Technical challenges were minimal and there were no adverse effects observed. Patient acceptance of immersive VR was high in a mostly medical intensive care population with little prior VR experience. Patients commented on the potential of immersive VR to ameliorate cognitive and emotional symptoms. Investigators can consider integrating minimally modified commercial VR headsets into the existing intensive care unit workflow to further assess VR's efficacy for a variety of endpoints.

Modernizing ED Care: Virtual Reality Enhances the Patient Experience during Minor Wide-awake Hand Procedures.

Minor procedures in the emergency department (ED) can be distressing for patients. The emergence of virtual reality (VR) offers a promising new tool by immersing patients in an engaging three-dimensional world. Prior studies have shown VR's effectiveness during procedures in reducing pain, anxiety, and procedure duration but have not assessed its efficacy in the ED. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of VR in managing pain and anxiety during ED minor hand procedures. This was a prospective, interventional study at a level I trauma center examining adult patients requiring minor hand procedures. Patients were provided the Oculus Quest 2 VR headset, offering various immersive three-dimensional experiences. Pre- and postprocedure surveys assessed previous VR use, anxiety and pain levels, VR efficacy, and possible adverse effects. Responses were rated on a 10-point Likert scale with paired t tests used to compare scores. The study included sixteen patients, seven of whom were first-time VR users. Patients experienced a significant decrease in both anxiety and pain levels. Survey results indicated overall benefits from VR in several aspects, with no adverse effects reported, and unanimous patient recommendation of the VR experience to others. VR is an effective tool to optimize the patient experience during ED hand procedures. The study observed a significant decrease in anxiety and a declining trend in pain levels. Patients believed VR helped manage their pain and would recommend it to others. Given the benefits and high safety profile, VR should become a standard offering in ED minor hand procedures.

Human-computer interaction in virtual reality environments for educational and business purposes

This paper examines the integration of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in Virtual Reality (VR) environments, with a focus on its application in educational and business domains. It explores the transformative potential of VR in enhancing user interface design, optimizing user experience, and integrating advanced technologies like natural language processing and gesture recognition. The research highlights VR's efficacy in improving learning outcomes and operational efficiencies, demonstrating significant advancements in immersive and intuitive interaction within virtual settings. The study underscores the critical role of user-centered design in VR systems and the impact of integrating natural language processing and gesture recognition technologies in creating more natural and intuitive user interactions. Through comprehensive analysis and case studies, the paper presents the latest developments in VR technology and its application, offering insights into the future of immersive digital environments in education and business sectors.

O262: Evaluating the role and efficacy of virtual reality and simulation in teaching acute and trauma scenarios – a systematic review

Abstract Introduction Simulation allows trainees to practice skills safely and is the current gold standard method of teaching. More recently, novel methods such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality are being explored as possible methods of teaching. Aims To evaluate the current evidence pertaining to simulation and VR as methods of teaching in teaching acute and trauma management. Methods A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. Medline and Embase (via Ovid interface) were used to search for articles up to March 2023. The following MeSH terms were used: ‘(virtual reality OR VR) AND (acute surgical OR surgery OR trauma OR trauma management) AND (medical education OR education OR surgical training OR training) AND simulation’. Results A total of 3815 articles were identified. 2648 were screened upon de-duplication. 40 articles underwent full-text review; 14 were extracted. Prospective cohort studies were the most common, 43.8%. Experimental studies included a total of 436 participants, with a median sample size of 23 (IQR:14–32). 6 studies compared VR to simulation methods. Half of these articles indicated favourable conclusions towards VR training compared to standard training. A further 8 studies evaluated feasibility of VR training only – all had favourable outcomes for VR. Conclusion This review identified a range of evidence indicating that VR can be useful for training of acute surgical scenarios. VR was generally a well-received training modality although unlikely to replace simulation entirely. More robust statistical analysis in further studies is required, with investigation into the longer-term impact of VR training.

Effectiveness of Nonpharmacological Behavioural Interventions in Managing Dental Fear and Anxiety among Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Non-pharmacological behavioural interventions (NPBIs) have been employed by dentists to alleviate dental fear and anxiety (DFA) among preschool and school children. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effectiveness of different NPBIs in reducing DFA among children aged below 12. A comprehensive search was conducted using four electronic databases to identify randomised controlled trials that assess the effectiveness of NPBIs among preschool and school children. Two reviewers independently screened and selected the relevant studies, evaluated the risk of bias, and extracted relevant data for qualitative and quantitative syntheses. A total of 66 articles were included in the study. Except during more invasive dental procedures, the use of distraction techniques was found to result in significantly lower self-rated anxiety, better cooperation, and lower pulse rate compared to the tell-show-do method. However, inconsistent results were reported regarding the efficacy of virtual reality, modelling, visual pedagogies, tell-show-do and other NPBIs in reducing DFA among children. The studies exhibited substantial heterogeneity due to varying age groups, methods of implementing NPBIs, dental treatments performed, and measurement scales employed in the evaluation of DFA.

Efficacy of the use of video games on mood, anxiety and depression in stroke patients: preliminary findings of a randomised controlled trial

BackgroundIn the different published studies, there is no consensus on the efficacy of virtual reality as an adjuvant treatment of mood states.AimThe aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of no immersive virtual reality with the Nintendo Switch device in rehabilitation treatment on mood, anxiety and depression in stroke patients admitted to neurorehabilitation units.MethodsFifty-eight patients admitted to neurorehabilitation units underwent a 1:3 multicentre randomised clinical trial. The intervention group consisted of 17 patients and the control group of 41 patients. The intervention group performed 6 virtual reality sessions together with the conventional treatment, and the control group performed only the conventional rehabilitation sessions. Primary and secondary clinical outcomes were measured before and six weeks after the intervention.ResultsComparing the intervention group and control group, the anxiety levels of the intervention group decreased compared to the results observed in the control group (p = 0.01), as did the dependence of the intervention group (0.015). On the other hand, the results obtained after the intervention by the control group for anxiety (0.479) and depression (0.292) were not statistically significant.ConclusionRehabilitation VR used as an adjuvant treatment to conventional treatment has a beneficial impact on the neurological status and state of anxiety of stroke patients admitted to neurorehabilitation units.Trial registrationRegistered in the https://clinicaltrials.gov/ repository (NTC NCT05143385). Protocol registration date 7 October 2021, retrospectively registered.

Comparison of the effectiveness of virtual reality-based education and conventional teaching methods in dental education: a systematic review

Background and objectivesVirtual reality dental simulators as an educational tool may create specific training conditions for dental students, allowing them to practice dental skills in a safe and controlled condition. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of virtual reality-based education in dental education compared to traditional education approaches.MethodsIn this systematic review, four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct) were searched until 2023 following PRISMA guidelines. The Quality assessment and risk of bias were assessed by the Cochrane Collaboration Tool for RCTs and GRADE, respectively. Inclusion criteria were restricted to randomized or quasi-randomized trials about virtual reality efficacy in dental education. Two authors independently evaluated the data and reviewed the overall risk of bias for all selected studies. Study design, sample size, hardware, onset time of intervention, duration, and number of procedures performed were among the data extracted.ResultsFrom the 703 titles, 48 full texts were chosen for review, yielding 14 articles for final inclusion. The review of these articles indicated the effective role of virtual reality dental simulators in improving students' knowledge and practical skills.ConclusionsBased on our findings, adding haptic technology to virtual reality can improve students' practical skills, hand skills, theoretical knowledge, self-confidence, and learning environment. Although a fair amount of research needs to be done, notably on cost-effectiveness, student satisfaction, and other potentially adverse effects, virtual reality is a growing phenomenon with immense potential.

Impact of virtual reality-based therapy on post-stroke depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Post-stroke depression is the most common neuropsychiatric consequence and reduces rehabilitation effectiveness. However, the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) on mental health treatment for patients after a stroke is uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of VR as a co-adjuvant form of treatment to reduce depression in stroke patients admitted to neurorehabilitation units. We systematically searched medical databases including PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to November 16, 2023. Clinical trials comparing the use of VR as an adjuvant form of treatment in stroke patients' rehabilitation with the usual treatment were included. Pooled standardized mean differences were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed according to type of stroke, VR characteristics, and the scale used to measure depression. Meta-regression analysis was performed for intervention duration and to determine the mean age of the participants. Eight studies and 388 stroke patients were included. The VR interventions were associated with a lower risk of depression in patients (ES = -0.69; 95% CI [-1.05, -0.33]; I2 = 57.6%; p ≤ .02). The estimates were not affected by the type of stroke, the type of VR used, the blinding process, the type of scale used to detect depression, the duration of the intervention (weeks and minutes), and the total number of sessions. Meta-regression shows that younger samples (p = .00; 95% CI [0.01, 0.08) and longer interventions (p = < .05; 95% CI [-0.00, -0.00) lead to a greater reduction in depression. This review provides an important basis for treating depression in patients after a stroke. Professionals working in stroke neurorehabilitation units should consider VR as a form of co-adjuvant treatment for depression in patients. CRD42022303968.

A systematic review on the efficacy of virtual reality and gamification interventions for managing anxiety and depression.

This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) and gamification interventions in addressing anxiety and depression. The review also seeks to identify gaps in the current VR treatment landscape and provide guidelines for future research and development. A systematic literature search was conducted using Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases, focusing on studies that utilized VR and gamification technology to address anxiety and depression disorders. A total of 2,664 studies were initially identified, 15 of those studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. The efficacy of VR in addressing anxiety and depression was evident across all included studies. However, the diversity among VR interventions highlights the need for further investigation. It is advised to incorporate more diverse participant samples and larger cohorts and explore a broader spectrum of therapeutic approaches within VR interventions for addressing anxiety and depression to enhance the credibility of future research. Additionally, conducting studies in varying socioeconomic contexts would contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of their real-world applicability.

Virtual reality and augmented reality smartphone applications for upskilling care home workers in hand hygiene: a realist multi-site feasibility, usability, acceptability, and efficacy study.

To assess the feasibility and implementation, usability, acceptability and efficacy of virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) smartphone applications for upskilling care home workers in hand hygiene and to explore underlying learning mechanisms. Care homes in Northwest England were recruited. We took a mixed-methods and pre-test and post-test approach by analyzing uptake and completion rates of AR, immersive VR or non-immersive VR training, validated and bespoke questionnaires, observations, videos, and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively. Qualitative data were analyzed using a combined inductive and deductive approach. Forty-eight care staff completed AR training (n = 19), immersive VR training (n = 21), or non-immersive VR training (n = 8). The immersive VR and AR training had good usability with System Usability Scale scores of 84.40 and 77.89 (of 100), respectively. They had high acceptability, with 95% of staff supporting further use. The non-immersive VR training had borderline poor usability, scoring 67.19 and only 63% would support further use. There was minimal improved knowledge, with an average of 6% increase to the knowledge questionnaire. Average hand hygiene technique scores increased from 4.77 (of 11) to 7.23 after the training. Repeated practice, task realism, feedback and reminding, and interactivity were important learning mechanisms triggered by AR/VR. Feasibility and implementation considerations included managerial support, physical space, providing support, screen size, lagging Internet, and fitting the headset. AR and immersive VR apps are feasible, usable, and acceptable for delivering training. Future work should explore whether they are more effective than previous training and ensure equity in training opportunities.

The place of virtual reality in the rehabilitation of patients with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that limits the ability to work and lead an active lifestyle, mostly in young adults. Physical activity, along with drug therapy, is an essential part of the life of a person with MS. In the last decades, rehabilitation of MS patients has made great progress. However, the problem of compliance is still relevant. Virtual reality (VR) based rehabilitation can not only improve the quality of the training process but also increase patient compliance.Objective: to study the literature data on the effectiveness of the techniques of VR in reducing the severity of symptoms of MS and improving the quality of life.Materials and methods. A thorough literature search of the MEDLINE (Pubmed), eLibrary, and Google Schcolar databases was performed. Papers that met two criteria were included in the study: study population – patients with MS; presence of at least one comparison group (standard therapy or no therapy).Results. Based on the results of the analysis, 44 articles were selected. The efficacy of VR in reducing symptoms of MS such as fatigue, balance disturbances, risk factors for falls, mobility, apraxia, impaired hand function was described, as well as the impact on overall quality of life and its components.Conclusions. The VR rehabilitation can have its own place in the general system of physical rehabilitation and also become an effective tool to increase motivation and quality of life at all stages of rehabilitation.

Efficacy of virtual reality distraction technique for anxiety and pain control in orthopedic forearm surgeries performed under supraclavicular brachial plexus block: A randomized controlled study

ABSTRACT Background Virtual reality (VR) distraction has been considered an alternative to medication to treat acute pain related to different procedures. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VR in reducing anxiety and pain in patients having orthopedic forearm operations under supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methods This was an open-label, parallel-group, randomized trial. Thirty adult patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II were enrolled for orthopedic forearm operations performed under supraclavicular brachial plexus block. The patients were randomized into two equal groups. In the VR group, 15 patients performed the procedure with the use of VR and administration of midazolam according to the patient’s request, while in the control group, 15 patients received 2 mg midazolam followed by a titration dose according to the patient’s request. The primary outcome was the total intravenous sedation needed for the patient. Secondary outcomes included total perioperative analgesic utilization, incidence of harmful effects, patient satisfaction rating, and hemodynamic parameters. Results Virtual distraction technique significantly reduced the intraoperative midazolam consumption (2.00 ± 0.00 vs 6.67 ± 2.09 mg, respectively, p < 0.001) compared to the control group. The total perioperative analgesic consumption, incidence of adverse effects, and hemodynamic parameters were not significantly different in both groups. Patients who performed the block with the VR distraction technique showed better satisfaction scores compared to the control group (9.60 ± 0.51 vs 8.53 ± 0.92, respectively, p = 0.001). Conclusion In orthopedic forearm surgeries under supraclavicular nerve block, the VR distraction technique can reduce intraoperative sedation requirements and improve patient satisfaction.

Virtual and Augmented Reality in Post-stroke Rehabilitation: A Narrative Review.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are noble adjunctive technologies currently being studied for the neuro-rehabilitation of post-stroke patients, potentially enhancing conventional therapy. We explored the literature to find if VR/AR improves neuroplasticity in stroke rehabilitation for a better quality of life. This modality can lay the foundation for telerehabilitation services in remote areas. We analyzed four databases, namely Cochrane Library, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, by searching the following keywords: ("Stroke Rehabilitation" [Majr]) AND ("Augmented Reality" [Majr]), Virtual Augmented Reality in Stroke Rehabilitation. All the available open articles were reviewed and outlined. The studies conclude that VR/AR can help in early rehabilitation and yield better results in post-stroke patients in adjunct to conventional therapy. However, due to the limited research on this subject, we cannot conclude that this information is absolute. Moreover, VR/AR was seldom customized according to the needs of stroke survivors, which would have given us the full extent of its application. Around the world, stroke survivors are being studied to verify the accessibility and practicality of these innovative technologies. Observations conclude that further exploration of the extent of the implementations and efficacy of VR and AR, combined with conventional rehabilitation, is fundamental.

The Efficacy of Virtual Reality in Climate Change Education Increases with Amount of Body Movement and Message Specificity

Climate change impacts are felt globally, and the impacts are increasing in severity and intensity. Developing new interventions to encourage behaviors that address climate change is crucial. This pre-registered field study investigated how the design of a virtual reality (VR) experience about ocean acidification could impact participants’ learning, behavior, and perceptions about climate change through the manipulation of the experience message framing, the sex of voice-over and the pace of the experience, and the amount of participants’ body movement. The study was run in 17 locations such as museums, aquariums, and arcades in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Denmark. The amount of body movement was a causal mechanism, eliciting higher feelings of self-efficacy while hindering learning. Moreover, linking the VR narrative about ocean acidification linguistically to climate change impaired learning compared to a message framing that did not make the connection. As participants learned more about the experience, they perceived the risks associated with ocean acidification as higher, and they were more likely to engage in pro-climate behavior. The results shed light on the mechanisms behind how VR can teach about ocean acidification and influence climate change behavior.