Search Results (1,057)

Autonomous social robots aim to reduce human supervision by performing various tasks. To achieve this, they are equipped with multiple perceptual channels to interpret and respond to environmental cues in real time. However, multimodal perception often leads to sensory overload, as robots may receive numerous simultaneous stimuli with varying durations or persistent activations across different sensory modalities. Sensor overstimulation and false positives can compromise a robot’s ability to prioritise relevant inputs, sometimes resulting in repeated or inaccurate behavioural responses that reduce the quality and coherence of the interaction. This paper presents a Bioinspired Attentional System that uses Reinforcement Learning to manage stimulus prioritisation in real time. The system draws inspiration from the following two neurocognitive mechanisms: Inhibition of Return, which progressively reduces the importance of previously attended stimuli that remain active over time, and Attentional Fatigue, which penalises stimuli of the same perception modality when they appear repeatedly or simultaneously. These mechanisms define the algorithm’s reward function to dynamically adjust the weights assigned to each stimulus, enabling the system to select the most relevant one at each moment. The system has been integrated into a social robot and tested in three representative case studies that show how it modulates sensory signals, reduces the impact of redundant inputs, and improves stimulus selection in overstimulating scenarios. Additionally, we compare the proposed method with a baseline where the robot executes expressions as soon as it receives them using a queue. The results show the system’s significant improvement in expression management, reducing the number of expressions in the queue and the delay in performing them. Full article

Intelligent sensing systems are increasingly used in wearable devices, enabling advanced tasks across various application domains including robotics and human–machine interaction. Ensuring these systems are energy autonomous is highly demanded, despite strict constraints on power, memory and processing resources. To meet these requirements, embedded neural networks must be optimized to achieve a balance between accuracy and efficiency. This paper presents an integrated approach that combines Hardware-Aware Neural Architecture Search (HW-NAS) with optimization techniques—weight reshaping, quantization, and their combination—to develop efficient classifiers for a multisensory glove. HW-NAS automatically derives 1D-CNN models tailored to the NUCLEO-F401RE board, while the additional optimization further reduces model size, memory usage, and latency. Across three datasets, the optimized models not only improve classification accuracy but also deliver an average reduction of 75% in inference time, 69% in flash memory, and more than 45% in RAM compared to NAS-only baselines. These results highlight the effectiveness of integrating NAS with optimization techniques, paving the way towards energy-autonomous wearable systems. Full article

Multisensory behavioral research is increasingly aiming to move beyond traditional laboratories and into real-world settings. Smartphones offer a promising platform for this purpose, but their use in psychophysical experiments requires rigorous validation of their ability to precisely present multisensory stimuli and record reaction times (RTs). To date, no study has systematically assessed the feasibility of conducting RT-based multisensory paradigms on smartphones. In this study, we developed a reproducible validation method to quantify smartphones’ temporal precision in synchronized auditory–tactile stimulus delivery and RT logging. Applying this method to five Android devices, we identified two with sufficient precision. We also introduced a technique to enhance RT measurement by combining touchscreen and accelerometer data, effectively doubling the measure resolution—from 8.33 ms (limited by a 120 Hz refresh rate) to 4 ms. Using a top-performing device identified through our validation, we conducted an audio–tactile RT experiment with 20 healthy participants. Looming sounds were presented through headphones during a tactile detection task. Results showed that looming sounds reduced tactile RTs by 20–25 ms compared to static sounds, replicating a well-established multisensory effect linked to peripersonal space. These findings present a robust method for validating smartphones for cognitive research and demonstrate that high-precision audio–tactile paradigms can be reliably implemented on mobile devices. This work lays the groundwork for rigorous, scalable, and ecologically valid multisensory behavioral studies in naturalistic environments, expanding participant reach and enhancing the relevance of multisensory research. Full article

As urbanization intensifies, the challenge of preserving industrial heritage while fostering authentic intergenerational connections has become increasingly salient. This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) technologies can be applied to enhance authenticity and promote both hedonic and eudaimonic well-being within the context of heritage tourism. Using a facility in Shanghai as a case study, we propose a cultural co-creation mechanism that transforms implicit intergenerational memories into shared cultural resources through digital interaction. The study first evaluates public awareness and participation needs in the context of industrial heritage revitalization. In response, we design an immersive platform that enables visitors of different generations to co-create meaning through historical scene reconstruction, multisensory engagement, and collaborative storytelling. A novel five-sense encoding strategy is introduced to reinterpret the enclosed spatial characteristics of industrial architecture as an experiential form of storytelling. This process fosters a deeper connection to place, contributing to authenticity and well-being. Prototype testing results suggest that this AI-AR-enabled co-creation system supports meaningful cultural attachment, improves authenticity, and facilitates the sustainable transmission of heritage. This research provides a replicable model for integrating digital technology, community participation, and authenticity in the well-being-oriented revitalization of industrial heritage sites. Full article

In this paper, a target detection network algorithm based on a multi-branch convolution and attention improvement Cross-Stage Partial-Fusion Bottleneck with Two Convolutions (C2F) module is proposed for the difficult task of detecting small targets in unmanned aerial vehicles. A C2F module method consisting of fusing partial convolutional (PConv) layers was designed to improve the speed and efficiency of extracting features, and a method consisting of combining multi-scale feature fusion with a channel space attention mechanism was applied in the neck network. An FA-Block module was designed to improve feature fusion and attention to small targets’ features; this design increases the size of the miniscule target layer, allowing richer feature information about the small targets to be retained. Finally, the lightweight up-sampling operator Content-Aware ReAssembly of Features was used to replace the original up-sampling method to expand the network’s sensory field. Experimental tests were conducted on a self-complied mountain pedestrian dataset and the public VisDrone dataset. Compared with the base algorithm, the improved algorithm improved the mAP50, mAP50-95, P-value, and R-value by 2.8%, 3.5%, 2.3%, and 0.2%, respectively, on the Mountain Pedestrian dataset and the mAP50, mAP50-95, P-value, and R-value by 9.2%, 6.4%, 7.7%, and 7.6%, respectively, on the VisDrone dataset. Full article

Background/Objectives: Incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) represents a significant challenge in neurorehabilitation, with conventional limitations including recovery plateaus and declining patient motivation. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have emerged as promising technologies to supplement traditional therapy through gamification and multisensory feedback. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of VR and AR interventions for improving balance and locomotor function in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, with searches in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Randomized controlled trials and high-quality controlled studies evaluating VR/AR interventions in patients with iSCI (American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale [AIS] classifications B, C, or D) for a minimum of 3 weeks were included. A random-effects meta-analysis (Standardized Mean Difference, SMD; 95% Confidence Interval, CI) was conducted for the balance outcome. Results: Eight studies were included (n = 142 participants). The meta-analysis for balance (k = 5 studies) revealed a statistically significant improvement with a large effect size (SMD = 1.21, 95% CI: 0.04–2.38, p = 0.046). For locomotor function, a quantitative meta-analysis was not feasible due to a limited number of methodologically homogeneous studies; a qualitative synthesis of this evidence remained inconclusive. Substantial heterogeneity was observed in the balance analysis (I² = 81.5%). No serious adverse events related to VR/AR interventions were reported. Conclusions: VR/AR interventions show potential as an effective adjunctive therapy for improving balance in patients with iSCI, though the benefit should be interpreted with caution due to considerable variability between studies. The current evidence for locomotor function improvements is insufficient to draw conclusions, highlighting a critical need for more focused research. Substantial heterogeneity indicates that effectiveness may vary according to specific intervention characteristics, populations, and methodologies. Larger multicenter studies with standardized protocols are required to establish evidence-based clinical guidelines. Full article

The VR-based circular tracking movement evaluation system (CES) was developed to quantitatively assess visuomotor control. The virtual stick, a component of the CES, provides visual cues in the virtual environment and haptic feedback when holding the controller. This study examined the effects of stick presence and presentation order on control accuracy for distance, angle, and angular velocity. Twenty-seven participants (12 females; mean age 23.3 ± 2.3 years) performed tasks in the frontal plane followed by the sagittal plane. In each plane, the stick was visible for the first 1–3 revolutions and invisible for the subsequent 4–6 revolutions in the invisible condition, with the reverse order in the visible condition. In the invisible condition, control accuracy with the stick was 1.10 times higher for distance only in the sagittal plane, and 1.13 and 1.09 times higher for angle and angular velocity in the frontal plane, and 1.11 and 1.08 times higher in the sagittal plane. No significant differences were observed in the visible condition. The improved control accuracy when the stick was visible is likely due to enhanced precision in constructing the reference frame, internal models, body coordinates, and effective multisensory integration of visual and haptic information. Such visual information may enable fine control in virtual environment-based applications, including games and surgical simulations. Full article

Background: Hearing loss results from diverse biological insults along the auditory pathway, including sensory hair cell death, neural degeneration, and central auditory processing deficits. Implantable auditory neuroprostheses, such as cochlear and brainstem implants, aim to restore hearing by directly stimulating neural structures. Advances in neurobiology and device technology underpin the development of more sophisticated implants tailored to the biological complexity of auditory dysfunction. Aim: This narrative review of reviews aims to map the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in auditory neuroprosthetics, analyzing recent research trends, key thematic areas, and the opportunities and challenges of AI-enhanced devices. By synthesizing biological and computational perspectives, it seeks to guide future interdisciplinary efforts toward more adaptive and biologically informed hearing restoration solutions. Methods: This narrative review analyzed recent literature reviews from PubMed and Scopus (last 5 years), focusing on AI integration with auditory neuroprosthetics and related biological processes. Emphasis was placed on studies linking AI innovations to neural plasticity and device–nerve interactions, excluding purely computational works. The ANDJ (a standard narrative review checklist) checklist guided a transparent, rigorous narrative approach suited to this interdisciplinary, rapidly evolving field. Results and discussion: Eighteen recent review articles were analyzed, highlighting significant advancements in the integration of artificial intelligence with auditory neuroprosthetics, particularly cochlear implants. Established areas include predictive modeling, biologically inspired signal processing, and AI-assisted surgical planning, while emerging fields such as multisensory augmentation and remote care remain underexplored. Key limitations involve fragmented biological datasets, lack of standardized biomarkers, and regulatory challenges related to algorithm transparency and clinical application. This review emphasizes the urgent need for AI frameworks that deeply integrate biological and clinical insights, expanding focus beyond cochlear implants to other neuroprosthetic devices. To complement this overview, a targeted analysis of recent cutting-edge studies was also conducted, starting from the emerging gaps to capture the latest technological and biological innovations shaping the field. These findings guide future research toward more biologically meaningful, ethical, and clinically impactful solutions. Conclusions: This narrative review highlights progress in integrating AI with auditory neuroprosthetics, emphasizing the importance of biological foundations and interdisciplinary approaches. It also recognizes ongoing challenges such as data limitations and the need for clear ethical frameworks. Collaboration across fields is vital to foster innovation and improve patient care. Full article

This study models how designable cues in digital heritage promotion shape advocacy through affect and memory. Relying on the stimulus–organism–response paradigm, we argue that three stimuli, Visual Sensory Appeal (VSA), Narrative Immersion (NI), and Perceived Authenticity (PA), trigger Emotional Engagement (EE) and become Destination Memory (DM), leading to Intention to Recommend (IR). A cross-sectional quantitative design with an online self-report survey was employed. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) we modeled 653 usable responses to test hypothesized stimulus–organism–response processes and Multi-Group Analysis (MGA) tested heterogeneity across gender, age, education, recent contact, cultural-travel frequency, preservation interest, prior heritage experience, and technology use. Direct associations revealed VSA was a strong predictor of IR, and EE and DM predicted IR positively. NI and PA were not incrementally directly affecting IR. Mediation tests revealed partial mediation for VSA (through EE and DM) and complete mediation for NI and PA; across all stimuli, DM far surpassed EE, suggesting memory consolidation as the overall mechanism. MGA revealed systematic segmentation: women preferred visual and authenticity approaches; men used affective conversion, narrative, and authenticity-to-memory more; young adults preferred story/memory levers; higher education made authenticity pathways legitimate; exposure, experience, sustainability interest, and technology use further conditioned strength of paths. Results sharpen S–O–R accounts by ranking visual design as a proximal driver and placing EE on DM as the central channel through which narrative and authenticity have their influence. In practice, the research supports visually consistent, memory-backed, segment-specific strategies for sustainable, inclusive heritage communication. Full article

Background/Objectives: Antenatal multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) improves birth outcomes more effectively than iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation alone. However, the acceptability of MMS among pregnant individuals, a critical factor for adherence and program success, remains poorly defined and inconsistently assessed. This narrative review proposes a comprehensive definition of “acceptability” in the context of nutritional supplementation and evaluates the evidence on the acceptability of MMS compared to IFA in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search across Embase, Medline, and Scopus to identify studies (including grey literature) reporting on acceptability-related outcomes for MMS versus IFA among pregnant individuals. Studies exploring dimensions such as organoleptic properties, ease of consumption, side effects, cultural appropriateness, and socioeconomic factors were included. Results: Out of 1056 screened studies, five informed a novel multi-dimensional definition of acceptability. Six studies assessed acceptability-related characteristics. MMS was generally accepted across most organoleptic domains. Most studies reported fewer or comparable adverse side effects for MMS as compared to IFA. Studies consistently reported more perceived benefits for MMS than IFA. Facilitating factors included trust in health professionals, free provision, and family support. Barriers included poor taste or smell, fear of side effects, misconceptions, cost, and lack of family support. Conclusions: Antenatal MMS is widely acceptable in LMICs. Addressing socio-cultural, sensory, and socioeconomic factors is essential to increase uptake and adherence. This review provides a clear, standardized definition of acceptability to guide future research and inform effective program design. Full article

Pigeon meat is gaining increasing popularity due to its high nutritional value and desirable sensory qualities. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the quality-related components of pigeon meat by analyzing conventional nutritional indicators—including amino acids, fatty acids, and flavor nucleotides—in combination with multi-omics approaches. The results indicated that pigeon meat contains high levels of arginine (Arg), alanine (Ala), linoleic acid, and glycerophospholipids (GPs), which contribute significantly to its flavor profile. Additionally, several lipids, namely, PS (18:0/20:4), PE (16:2; O/2:0), HexCer (9:0;2O/42:11), Hex2Cer (38:1;2O), PS (16:0; O/21:0), and PE (42:9), were identified as potential characteristic markers of pigeon meat. A comparative analysis among three breeds—White King, Shiqi, and Tarim pigeons—revealed breed-specific differences in endogenous compounds, with each breed exhibiting distinct compositional traits. This study provides a comprehensive dataset for quality assessment and offers critical insights for the authenticity verification of pigeon meat. Full article

The substrates of kombucha typically consist of tea and sugar. In this study, the effect of initial sugar concentration on volatile compound and sensory characteristics of raw Pu-erh tea (RAPT) kombucha was investigated. Compared to tea free (S1) and sugar free (S2) samples, the sugared tea (39 g/L sucrose in S3 and 78 g/L sucrose in S4) revealed better sensory quality and higher liking scores after the fermentation process. Hence, high-throughput sequencing analysis was performed to determine the variation in microbial composition between S3 and S4. The result showed that S4 exhibited higher abundances of Komagataeibacter and Brettanomyces as compared to S3. In addition, S4 presented the most favorable sensory qualities characterized by higher intensities of fruity, alcoholic, and fatty aromas, and the highest overall liking score. The metagenomic and metabolomic analysis was employed to further explore the metabolic pathways of RAPT kombucha under the optimal sugar concentration. The metagenomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that the pathways related to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism were highly active under optimal sugar content, with compounds including glucose 6-phosphate, pyruvate and glutamate suggested to be important metabolites in regulating the sensory quality of the kombucha beverage. This paper provides a scientific basis for optimizing sugar addition in kombucha production. Full article

Applying embodied cognition theory is essential for the conservation and revitalization of architectural heritage. This paper examines how embodied cognition, architectural design, and local historical resources impact the conservation and revitalization of architectural heritage. Analysis of 435 valid questionnaires through structural equation modeling reveals that embodied experience, immersive environments, architectural atmosphere, and the utilization of historical resourceSSs play critical roles in the conservation and revitalization of heritage, with the utilization of historical resources having the most significant effect. This research demonstrates that embodied cognition theory can effectively integrate historical heritage resources by promoting multi-sensory engagement and spatial experience, facilitating the sustainable use and regeneration of architectural heritage. Based on these findings, the paper further discusses the potential and strategies for applying embodied cognition in the conservation and revitalization of historical heritage resources. Full article

This article explores the converging challenges and opportunities at the intersection of underwater cultural heritage, digital archaeology, and participatory science. In an era of accelerated climate change, data fragmentation, and rapid technological advancement, underwater archaeology is being reshaped by the rise of generative artificial intelligence (GAI), FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data governance, and the growing role of public archaeology. We argue for an ethical and epistemologically inclusive framework that recognizes the importance of co-authorship, data transparency, and multisensory narratives in interpreting submerged sites. Drawing on case studies from Latin America and Europe, this article demonstrates how socio-technical networks, collaborative models, and culturally sensitive ontologies offer a pathway toward a decolonized, accessible, and sustainable archaeology. This paper concludes with recommendations for integrated public policy and citizen-driven heritage protection, highlighting digital archaeology’s transformative potential in the Anthropocene. Full article

Commemorative gardens—particularly those shaped by classical arboreal symbolism—offer underexplored potential for sustainable destination planning. This study investigates how evergreen species such as laurel, cypress, and holm oak function as cultural signifiers in historic cemeteries, contributing to ecological resilience, civic education, and ethical tourism. Through a qualitative, transdisciplinary methodology combining site observation, symbolic analysis, and landscape semiotics, the paper examines three Florentine memorial sites: Santa Croce, the English Cemetery, and the Florence American Cemetery. Each represents a distinct commemorative paradigm—national, cosmopolitan, and transnational—yet all employ a vegetated design to inscribe memory within a landscape. The findings reveal how these gardens foster slow, multisensory visitor engagement while anchoring cultural identity and biodiversity, with participatory stewardship and symbolic vegetation emerging as key factors in transforming cemeteries into living heritage infrastructures. By tracing the evolution of commemorative landscapes from Greco–Roman groves to Romantic and modern garden cemeteries, the study illuminates their enduring capacity to mediate memory, ecology, and place. The paper argues that integrating symbolic literacy and environmental care into tourism policy can generate meaningful, low-impact visitor experiences. Florence exemplifies how commemorative gardens, rooted in ancient codes yet adaptable to contemporary needs, can serve as ethical blueprints for resilient, inclusive, and culturally legible destinations. Full article