The proliferation of immersive 3D web applications, from e-commerce product viewers to virtual real estate tours, has created a critical need for high-quality, real-time rendering directly within the browser. Neural radiance fields (NeRF) offer unprecedented photorealism but are hamstrung by immense computational demands, making their deployment on resource-constrained web platforms a significant web engineering challenge. The core bottleneck is NeRF’s reliance on dense point sampling for volume rendering. This paper introduces a novel framework that directly tackles this challenge through a pioneering adaptive sampling technique powered by reinforcement learning. We name this framework PPO-NeRF. It integrates the rapid training capabilities of Instant-NGP’s hash encoding with an agent trained via proximal policy optimization (PPO). This agent learns to adaptively predict the minimal set of crucial sample points along each camera ray, dynamically pruning computationally redundant samples to optimize rendering specifically for web-based, real-time scenarios. Experimental results demonstrate that PPO-NeRF significantly lowers the barrier to web deployment. Compared to the original NeRF, it reduces training time by approximately 73.63%, enabling faster content iteration for web developers. More critically, our adaptive sampling slashes rendering time by approximately 44.7% and VRAM usage by approximately 29.9%, while maintaining comparable visual fidelity. These gains directly translate to faster load times, smoother user interaction, and broader device compatibility. In conclusion, PPO-NeRF provides a practical solution to NeRF’s long-standing performance bottlenecks, establishing a viable pathway for deploying high-fidelity, interactive 3D experiences at scale across the modern web.

Virtual tourism attractiveness: Dimension identification, scale development and validation.

Effect of Virtual Interactive Video-based Information Support for Relieving Preoperative Anxiety on Patients Undergoing Day Case Hysteroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Purpose Rapid digital transformation following COVID-19 has increased the need for immersive tourism technologies. However, most prior studies focus on consumer adoption and overlook post-adoption and experiential factors among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Addressing this gap, the purpose of this study is to integrate the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2), Flow Theory and Expectation-Confirmation Theory (ECT) into a unified Metaverse Adoption Continuance Framework to examine both adoption and continuance of metaverse tourism platforms among SMEs in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 388 SME owners and managers through structured surveys. Using partial least squares structural equation modelling, this study tested the mediating role of user experience and the moderating effects of technology-savviness and familiarity. Findings This study found that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, flow state, perceived enjoyment and presence positively influenced user experience, whereas privacy concerns had a negative effect. User experience significantly affects both behavioral intention and continued usage, which are strong predictors of adoption. Technology-savviness and familiarity moderate these relationships. Additionally, ethical and equity considerations, particularly privacy and digital inclusion, emerged as important contextual factors shaping SMEs’ adoption decisions. Research limitations/implications This study used a cross-sectional design, which limits the ability to see how perceptions and metaverse use change over time. Future research should adopt longitudinal methods to observe such changes. Because the data were self-reported, there is a possibility of bias, so future studies could include actual usage indicators. The focus on Kuala Lumpur tourism SMEs also limits generalization; comparing regions or cultures could improve validity. The Metaverse Adoption and Continuance Framework can be expanded by adding elements such as AI-based personalization and blockchain security. Qualitative studies can further explore emotional, social and ethical aspects of metaverse use. Practical implications This study provides useful insights for tourism SMEs, policymakers and technology developers. Tourism SMEs can enhance user experience by creating simple, engaging and affordable metaverse content such as guided virtual tours and browser-based virtual reality. Collaboration with universities and start-ups can reduce costs and promote innovation. Policymakers can support digital transformation through grants, training and improved broadband access. Ethical practices, including transparent data protection and inclusive design, are vital to build user trust and social equity. Balancing immersive engagement with privacy safeguards ensures sustainable adoption and wider community benefits. Social implications This study highlights the potential of metaverse technologies to enhance digital inclusion and innovation among tourism SMEs, particularly in developing economies. By promoting immersive virtual tourism, SMEs can reach broader and more diverse audiences, including individuals with mobility limitations. The findings of this study emphasize the need for digital literacy and privacy awareness to encourage socially responsible technology adoption. Moreover, supporting SMEs in this digital transition can generate employment opportunities in VR content development, digital training and related services, contributing to inclusive economic growth and stronger community resilience in the post-pandemic tourism landscape. Originality/value This study refines existing hybrid adoption continuance models by benchmarking against prior frameworks and contextualizing them for Malaysian tourism SMEs. This study contributes theoretically by integrating experiential and post-adoption constructs and practically by offering actionable insights into SME digital readiness, ethical data governance and sustainable metaverse implementation.

Abstract This paper investigates the relationship between the adoption of digital technologies and the economic performance of Italian museums. We build a novel dataset with microdata for the near-universe of Italian museums in 2018 and 2022, enriched with municipal-level information on economic conditions, tourist flows and transport infrastructure. Our analysis highlights distinct economic roles for different classes of digital technologies. We find that while digital supports , such as interactive displays and mobile applications, are mainly associated with increased museum visits, web services , particularly online ticketing, primarily contribute to higher revenue. In contrast, remote-access tools , such as virtual tours, are generally associated with lower on-site revenue, suggesting a partial substitution away from paid visits. We then show that governance structures and infrastructural accessibility significantly moderate these relationships. Notably, directly managed museums, public institutions and those located in remote areas benefit the most from digital investments. These results emphasize the importance of tailored digital strategies, aligned with institutional characteristics and broader contextual factors, to enhance the economic performance of Italian museums.

The study explores the emerging trends, potential impact, and challenges of integrating virtual reality (VR) technology in the tourism industry in India. It examines how VR is being leveraged for destination-based virtual tours, travel service provider experiences, virtual museums and galleries, and VR applications in the hospitality industry. The key driving factors behind the growth of VR in Indian tourism, such as technological developments, consumer trends, and industry shifts, are also analyzed. The paper further discusses the challenges related to cost, accessibility, technical limitations, and content creation that need to be addressed for the widespread adoption of VR in the tourism sector. Finally, it highlights the opportunities VR presents for destination marketing, personalized experiences, and cultural immersion, underscoring its transformative potential in the tourism industry.

The current pilot study evaluated the effects of a dementia simulation program, the Virtual Dementia Tour®, on empathy in family caregivers of persons with dementia (PWD) using quantitative and qualitative approaches. Study design was a pre/post quantitative survey and postintervention focus groups. Quantitative analysis used descriptive statistics of changes in responses to the Empathy and Understanding in Dementia Index (EUDI). A focus group discussion guide was developed based on Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory. Thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data. Mean scores increased in responses to 14 of 15 items of the EUDI. Qualitative analysis yielded three major themes: Empathy, Dementia Knowledge, and Challenges. Dementia simulation programs increase empathy in family care-givers. Participants identified a need for others to participate to increase empathy and improve caregiving strategies. Research including a broader population is needed. Nurse clinicians should implement empathy-enhancing interventions to support caregivers of PWD.

Abstract Geotourism in volcanic areas attracts millions of visitors each year travelling to see and explore volcanic areas. One of the world’s most famous and visited volcanic areas is Somma-Vesuvius. Here, tourism is mainly concentrated around the central crater while the rest of the volcano, part of Vesuvius National Park, is largely unvisited. The volcano’s worldwide fame is primarily linked to its explosive activity, most notably the famous eruption that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 CE. Yet Somma-Vesuvius underwent long periods of effusive activity, such as the 1631–1944 eruptive cycle. On the volcano, there are examples of archetypal lava flows, including the 1858 flow field in which lava tubes formed. We propose a geoitinerary through the 1858 lava flow field that includes five sites, three lava tubes, an ephemeral vent and a tumulus, that allows people to evidence effusive activity and discover volcanic features formed during such activity at Somma-Vesuvius. A website was developed to host a virtual tour, which includes 360° images and an explicative panel for each site. The largest lava tube was 3D scanned to reconstruct its geometry, and to conserve a virtual copy of this fragile structure. Both the website and 3D scan aim to sensibilize people either not used to hiking or with physical impediment about volcanic landforms and their scientific relevance. The pertinence of the geoitinerary has been assessed by a SWOT analysis. The geoitinerary may contribute to divert tourist traffic away from the volcanic cone, while raising awareness on volcanic processes.

Abstract Background Depressive groups commonly suffer from social disconnection, which exacerbates their symptoms and hinders recovery. Existing interventions mainly focus on psychological counseling and medication, with limited exploration of the role of cultural and tourism resources. With the digital transformation of cultural and tourism industries, digital cultural and tourism resources have shown potential in improving social engagement due to their accessibility and interactivity. However, few studies have systematically analyzed the paths through which these resources construct social connections for depressive groups. This study aims to fill this gap, explore effective paths, and provide a new perspective for the non-pharmaceutical intervention of depression. Methods A mixed-methods study was conducted, including 180 depressive participants (aged 18-65) recruited from three mental health centers. Participants were randomly divided into the experimental group (n = 90) and the control group (n = 90). The experimental group was exposed to customized digital cultural and tourism resources (e.g., virtual cultural heritage tours, online cultural experience workshops) for 12 weeks, while the control group received routine health education. Social Connection Scale (SCS) was used to measure social connection levels at baseline, 6th week, and 12th week. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 participants from the experimental group to explore their experience. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 for quantitative analysis and NVivo 12 for qualitative thematic analysis. Results Quantitative analysis showed that there was no significant difference in baseline SCS scores between the two groups of study subjects (p>.05), indicating good comparability; At 6 weeks of intervention, the SCS score of the experimental group increased by 21.47% compared to the baseline period, while the control group only increased by 2.26%. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p<.05); At 12 weeks of intervention, the experimental group showed a cumulative increase of 37.97% in scores compared to the baseline period, while the control group showed a cumulative increase of 3.78%. The difference between the two groups further widened (p<.001), as shown in Table 1 for specific data. Discussion The research results confirm that digital cultural and tourism resources can effectively build social connections among individuals with depression, with the "resource experience emotional resonance interpersonal interaction" path being the most prominent. This discovery provides a practical basis for integrating digital cultural and tourism resources into depression intervention practices. However, this study has certain limitations: the sample only came from three mental health centers, and the geographical representation is insufficient; The intervention duration is limited to 12 weeks, and the long-term effect is not yet clear. Future research can expand the geographical and age coverage of the sample, focusing on exploring the differences in intervention effects of different types of digital cultural and tourism resources such as virtual reality and interactive games.

Abstract. This paper presents an immersive 4D digital platform designed to communicate and critically explore the transformation of the Temple of Debod in Madrid while supporting public understanding of ongoing conservation debates. This platform uses 360º panoramas of strategic points of the Temple. The platform enables “time travel” through three coherent states: the Temple’s original Nubian setting, its current condition in Madrid, and a plausible future scenario in which a protective museum envelope mitigates environmental stress. Rather than offering a conventional virtual tour, the work focuses on the integration of heterogeneous temporal content, reality-based documentation, historically grounded reconstructions, and a speculative yet technically consistent conservation proposal, within a single interactive environment.The result is a spatio-temporal narrative that makes change, relocation, and conservation choices visible and comparable. By combining immersive navigation, interpretive layers, and transparent scenario-building, the platform reframes documentation as a tool for dialogue: not only about what the monument is, but also about what it has become and what it could be.

Abstract. This paper presents lessons learned in the digital documentation of subterranean and lowlight heritage environments, with a case‐study on the four historic forts dating from the Italian Fascist period, located in Val Divedro (Verbano-Cusio-Ossola Province, Piedmont, Italy). We employed photogrammetric techniques - adapted to total darkness conditions - within disused alpine fortifications, transforming these once inaccessible environments, completely devoid of natural light, into high-resolution and photographic textured 3D models. Key challenges included lighting design (or absence thereof), stabilising camera rings in wet or uneven terrain, dealing with darkness, narrow corridors, and deep vertical shafts. and ensuring sufficient overlap and coverage for accurate photogrammetric reconstruction. The outcome demonstrated that, despite the inherent challenges of working in total darkness, the photogrammetric system achieved unexpectedly excellent results. This success is particularly significant considering the strong variability of illumination caused by the limited light output of a single portable flash source. Even under these conditions, the workflow produced decent image orientation, consistent surface reconstruction, and colour accurate texturing, proving that photogrammetry can remain effective and precise when properly adapted to extreme low light environments. While laser scanning, LiDAR or SLAM systems are generally considered more orthodox solutions for environments without light, the photogrammetric approach was chosen here for its capacity to produce true-to-life, colour-accurate visualisation of surfaces, a key element for assessing conservation state and enhancing public dissemination. From these 3D models, four digital virtual tours were also created, providing remote access to sites that remain physically inaccessible due to safety conditions and lack of viable paths.

Five Bali Aga (Old Balinese) tourist villages in Banjar District, North Bali, collaborated to promote their tourism potential through virtual tours two times during 2021 by bringing up different topics each time. This study analyses the process and the community involvement during implementation of virtual tour and also themes that were provided for the virtual tours. In collecting data, this qualitative study involved a literature review, participatory observation, and interviews. Data were analysed using marketing theory and community-based tourism theory. The analysis shows that Bali Aga tourist villages were very active in preparing attractions and conducting the virtual tours. This article contributes to our understanding that virtual tour as a new form of marketing communication in promoting tourist destination virtually. Moreover, virtual tours are not only for tourism promotion but are also useful for helping the community in maintaining their spirit to manage tourist attractions during the pandemic.

The paper discusses the role of metaverse marketing in enhancing sustainability in tourism based on the mediating effect of the immersive experience quality in the AlUla case, Saudi Arabia. The study is based on the Experience Economy Theory and Sustainable Tourism Development Theory since it combines the perspective of technology and experience to comprehend how virtual interaction leads to better sustainable behavioral results. The design was a quantitative, explanatory and cross-sectional design which used data obtained on 412 people who had experienced the metaverse tourism applications of AlUla, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Digital Twin/ Virtual Tours application. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was executed to conduct the analysis process through SmartPLS 4.0. Findings indicated that AR and Digital Twin/Virtual Tours had significant effect that is highly positive and tourism sustainability but VR did not reveal any meaningful relationships indicating that it might be a virtual fatigue when overused. In addition, the quality of immersive experience was also identified as an important mediator between metaverse marketing and sustainability results. The model was also found to be highly explanatory (Immersive Experiences Quality = 0.936 and Tourism Sustainability = 0.952 R2), which means that it is largely explanatory. The research contributes to the theoretical knowledge of digital immersion as a priority of sustainable tourism and provides valuable information on the work of policymakers and destination marketers intending to adopt balanced, hybrid approaches to digital implementation. Focusing on the authentic, educative, and responsible metaverse experiences, this study responds to the Saudi Vision 2030 and makes AlUla an example of smart and sustainable development of tourism all over the world.

Abstract—This study aims to develop a 360-degree panoramic virtual tour of the Tri Yuda Sakti Monument in Buleleng, Bali. This medium is expected to facilitate local government agencies in introducing the monument to the public. The study is also intended to provide the community with an impression of the monument without requiring them to visit the site directly. The research method employed is Research and Development (R&D), with the media development model based on the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC). The MDLC model consists of six stages: concept, design, material collecting, assembly, testing, and distribution. This study produced a 360-degree panoramic virtual tour of the Tri Yuda Sakti Monument (Tugu Tiga), developed and implemented in accordance with scientific principles.

3D reconstruction from satellite imagery has become a core application in the field of geospatial information technology today. Its inherent advantage of global coverage makes it indispensable in numerous fields, including but not limited to smart city construction, geographic navigation systems, virtual tourism, disaster response and management, and military and national defense. This paper compares different 3D models converted from satellite imagery, analyzing the characteristics and distinctions of various 3D models. It provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of various technical solutions for creating 3D models from satellite imagery. Through different comparisons, it offers a technical selection guide for 3D models in different application scenarios, enabling users to understand form, structure, and environmental changes more intuitively and deeply, and to prioritize between "visual fidelity" and "data availability".

Purpose This study explores stakeholder perspectives on the metaverse's role in advancing sustainable tourism and recreation. By examining environmental, social, and economic facets, it investigates how virtual platforms might complement real-world experiences and foster responsible practices. Design/methodology/approach Within the framework of the research question “How will the Metaverse affect the sustainability of tourism and recreation products?”, a phenomenological design and a qualitative approach were adopted, and in-depth interviews were conducted with 25 professional stakeholders from the tourism and recreation sectors. Findings Participants indicated that virtual tourism can broaden marketing opportunities, reduce overtourism and enhance inclusivity, while raising concerns about energy consumption and authenticity. Many viewed the metaverse as a tool that complements rather than replaces physical travel. Economic impacts included job creation in new digital roles, though potential displacement in traditional sectors was noted. Research limitations/implications This study focuses on tourism stakeholders operating in Türkiye. Therefore, the regional and cultural context of Türkiye may limit the generalizability of the findings to other countries or regions. Future research could benefit from cross-country comparative studies to explore whether similar patterns and perspectives emerge in different geographical and socio-cultural settings. Practical implications Policymakers and industry actors can harness virtual platforms to alleviate crowding, reduce carbon footprints and design accessible tourism products. Social implications Metaverse-based tourism may boost cultural preservation and inclusivity but risks diluting the benefits of direct face-to-face engagement. Originality/value As one of the first studies to investigate the metaverse's viability for fostering sustainable tourism, this research provides empirical insight into stakeholder attitudes and underscores the need for balanced policy and technology strategies.

Arabic vocabulary (mufrodat) is a foundational element in mastering the Arabic language, especially for elementary students in Islamic education. However, conventional teaching methods and limited media often hinder student engagement and vocabulary retention. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Virtual Tour–based interactive media in improving students’ Arabic vocabulary mastery. The research employed a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design involving 28 fifth-grade students at an Integrated Islamic Elementary School in Yogyakarta. Research instruments included classroom observations, teacher interviews, a student motivation questionnaire (10 valid and reliable items), and a vocabulary test (15 valid and reliable items). The results indicated an increase in mean scores from 48.18 to 72.39. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test yielded Z = −3.888 with p < 0.001, indicating a statistically significant improvement. The mean N-Gain score was 0.48, classified as a moderate improvement. All questionnaire items scored above 4.0 on a five-point Likert scale, with an overall mean of 4.37, categorized as very good. These findings suggest that Virtual Tour media can effectively enhance motivation, interaction, and contextual vocabulary acquisition. The study contributes to the development of digital media in Arabic language education and offers an innovative alternative for Arabic teachers at the elementary level.

Despite its cultural potential, Wetabar Village has not been supported by effective digital promotional media. Information access remains limited, and the lack of interactive promotional platforms has contributed to the low interest of tourists. Current promotional efforts rely heavily on conventional methods, resulting in decreased visitor numbers. The implementation of digital technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Web-based 360° Virtual Reality Tours is considered an effective approach to increasing tourist engagement by offering immersive exploration experiences and interactive cultural content. This research aims to design and implement a web-based tourism promotion media that integrates local cultural content with AR and 360° virtual tour technologies. The development process follows the MDLC research method, utilizing the Lumi H5P platform and PHP for system implementation. The resulting system enables users to digitally explore Wetabar Village through panoramic views and interactive multimedia features. The findings show that the developed application runs smoothly on both Android devices and laptops and is capable of providing hotspot access to operate the virtual reality features. This innovation is expected to enhance tourist interest while supporting cultural preservation and promoting digital transformation within the tourism sector of West Sumba.

This study curates and structures knowledge concerning Buddhist learning resources for tourism, presenting it through a virtual tour of Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Ratchaworamahawihan in Nakhon Pathom Province. Employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, the research first establishes a structured knowledge base. This involves developing a comprehensive metadata schema for cataloging the temple’s diverse resources, including both sacred sites and artifacts, to enhance their searchability and accessibility. Subsequently, this knowledge is rendered into a virtual tour, which serves as an exemplary model of a Buddhist digital learning resource for tourism. The findings reveal the extensive diversity of resources within the temple. The developed virtual tour platform allows users an immersive exploration of the site via 360-degree panoramic views. This research presents significant implications for relevant agencies, offering a scalable model for the digital dissemination of cultural heritage. It is anticipated that this initiative will expand global access to and appreciation of the temple’s cultural value, thereby fostering international interest in visitation. Such engagement is poised to stimulate the local economy and bolster Thailand’s image as a premier cultural tourism destination.

Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly recognized as a promising tool for healthcare training, yet its application in dementia caregiver education remains an emerging field. Despite growing interest, few reviews have systematically mapped how VR interventions are used to support both formal and informal caregivers. This scoping review aims to synthesize current evidence on VR-based dementia care training and to identify how VR contributes to caregiver knowledge, skills, empathy, and preparedness. Seventeen studies were included, encompassing diverse caregiver populations such as family caregivers, certified nursing assistants, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, with sample sizes ranging from 10 to 223 participants. Study designs varied and included pre-post studies (n = 3), randomized controlled trials (n = 3), non-randomized controlled trials (n = 1), feasibility pilot studies (n = 1), quasi-experimental designs (n = 4), qualitative studies (n = 3), and post-test-only designs (n = 2). Research was conducted across the United States, Ireland, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. VR interventions included the Virtual Dementia Tour, Into D'mentia, Through the D'ementia Lens, 360° VR films, and A Walk-Through Dementia, reflecting substantial variation in content and delivery formats. Overall, the evidence indicates that VR is an engaging and impactful educational modality that enhances caregivers' empathy, dementia-related knowledge, and care competence. These findings highlight VR's potential as a valuable complement to traditional dementia care training. However, methodological variability, limited long-term follow-up, and inconsistent outcome measures underscore the need for more rigorous and standardized research to inform best practices and guide implementation across diverse caregiving contexts.