As healthcare costs rise due to aging populations and chronic illnesses, optimized care solutions are urgently needed. Gesture recognition and fall detection are critical for intelligent companion robots in healthcare. However, current deep learning models struggle with accuracy and real-time performance in complex [...] Read more.

As healthcare costs rise due to aging populations and chronic illnesses, optimized care solutions are urgently needed. Gesture recognition and fall detection are critical for intelligent companion robots in healthcare. However, current deep learning models struggle with accuracy and real-time performance in complex backgrounds due to high computational demands. To address this, we propose an improved RT-DETR R18 model tailored for companion robots. This lightweight, efficient design integrates YOLOv9’s ADown module, the RepNCSPELAN4 module, and custom attention-based AdaptiveGateUpsample and AdaptiveGateDownsample modules for enhanced multi-scale feature fusion, reducing weight and complexity while optimizing real-time detection. Experiments show our model achieves a 51.7% reduction in parameters, a 46.7% decrease in GFLOPS, and higher FPS compared to RT-DETR R18, with mAP@0.5, mAP@0.5-0.95, precision, and recall improving to 99.4%, 86.4%, 99.6%, and 99.4%, respectively. Testing in complex indoor environments confirms its high accuracy for gesture recognition and fall detection, reducing manual workload and offering a novel solution for human behavior recognition in intelligent companionship.Full article

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Deteriorating eyesight is increasingly prevalent in the digital age due to prolonged screen exposure and insufficient eye care, leading to reduced productivity and difficulties in maintaining focus during extended reading sessions. This systematic literature review, following PRISMA guidelines, evaluates 1782 articles, with 42 [...] Read more.

Deteriorating eyesight is increasingly prevalent in the digital age due to prolonged screen exposure and insufficient eye care, leading to reduced productivity and difficulties in maintaining focus during extended reading sessions. This systematic literature review, following PRISMA guidelines, evaluates 1782 articles, with 42 studies ultimately included, assessing their quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). The selected studies are categorised into eye metric classification, measuring comprehension, measuring attention, and typography and typesetting. Recent advances have demonstrated the potential of machine learning to enhance eye movement predictions, such as the classification of fixations and saccades, while other research utilises eye metrics to assess mental fatigue and attention levels. Additionally, modifications to typography have been explored as a means of improving focus and memory retention. The findings highlight the transformative role of eye-tracking technologies and machine learning in understanding reading behaviour, attention, and cognitive workload. However, challenges such as data scarcity, limited generalisability, and biases in existing methodologies persist. Addressing these gaps through standardised frameworks, diverse datasets, and advancements in synthetic data generation could enhance the accessibility, accuracy, and real-world applicability of eye-tracking solutions for improving reading comprehension and focus.Full article

Deep space exploration, generally referring to the space exploration activities targeting the Moon and more distant extraterrestrial celestial bodies, stands as a critical indicator of a nation’s comprehensive capabilities and technological prowess [...]Full article

To systematically study the mechanical behavior of a steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) pier under bending–torsion coupling, three pier specimens with a clear height of 1200 mm, a diameter of 300 mm, and an SFRC height of 300 mm in the plastic hinge region [...] Read more.

To systematically study the mechanical behavior of a steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) pier under bending–torsion coupling, three pier specimens with a clear height of 1200 mm, a diameter of 300 mm, and an SFRC height of 300 mm in the plastic hinge region were designed and fabricated. Quasi-static tests were carried out to observe the damage patterns and failure modes of the specimens. On this basis, multiple finite element models were established using the ABAQUS 2018 software to study the influence of the torsion–bending ratio and SFRC height on the seismic performance of the pier. The results show that the bending–torsion coupling effect leads to a decrease in the bending and torsion capacities of the pier. The presence of torque causes the plastic hinge position to move up and the plastic hinge area to expand. Adding SFRC at the bottom of the pier can effectively improve the bearing capacity of the pier under earthquake action. The optimal height of SFRC is half of the clear height of the pier under the common torsion–bending ratio, which can not only improve the seismic performance of the structure but also avoid material waste.Full article

The full description of the mechanisms for the diffusion of substitutional impurities requires an account of the correlation of the atomic jumps. This study investigated the diffusion of phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S) in the fcc copper (Cu) single crystal using density functional [...] Read more.

The full description of the mechanisms for the diffusion of substitutional impurities requires an account of the correlation of the atomic jumps. This study investigated the diffusion of phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S) in the fcc copper (Cu) single crystal using density functional theory (DFT). Vacancy formation energies and impurity–vacancy interactions were calculated, revealing attractive interactions of P and S with the vacancies. The attractive interactions between S and a vacancy were roughly twice as strong as those between P and a vacancy. The 5-frequency—or 5-jump—model was employed to describe the correlation effects during diffusion. The potential energy profiles and activation energies were determined for the different jump paths necessary for the model and to account for all the correlation effects in substitutional impurity diffusion in the single crystal. The results indicated that S diffuses significantly faster than P in Cu, primarily due to lower activation energies for certain jump paths and a more favorable vacancy–impurity interaction. This occurs because when bonding with the crystal, S tends to prefer atomic sites with larger volumes and more asymmetric geometric arrangements when compared to P. This favors the interactions between S and the vacancies, and reduces friction with the matrix during the diffusion of S. The effective diffusion coefficients were calculated and compared with experimental data. The findings provide insights into the diffusion mechanisms of P and S in Cu and how these can be affected by the presence of extended defects such as grain boundaries.Full article

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This study provides a bibliometric review of 238 studies on the concept of green shipping corridors in the maritime industry, published in 93 academic outlets and authored by 654 scholars. Bibliographical data were extracted from the Web of Science database and analyzed using [...] Read more.

This study provides a bibliometric review of 238 studies on the concept of green shipping corridors in the maritime industry, published in 93 academic outlets and authored by 654 scholars. Bibliographical data were extracted from the Web of Science database and analyzed using the bibliometrix package in R software (version 4.3.3) alongside VOSviewer (version 1.6.20). Based on citation analysis metrics, the most influential articles, journals, authors, institutions, and countries within the field were identified. Utilizing the bibliographic coupling methodology in VOSviewer, the following four underlying research clusters were distinguished: (1) Sustainable Green Shipping Practices and Research, (2) Alternative Fuels and Low-Carbon Strategies for Maritime Transport, (3) Green and Low-Carbon Maritime Development, and (4) Environmental Sustainability in Maritime Shipping. Content analysis results highlighted crucial policy recommendations, technological adaptation strategies, and collaborative stakeholder practices, providing robust insights for academia and industry practitioners seeking strategic guidance for effective maritime decarbonization via integrated green shipping corridor initiatives.Full article

Termites pose a threat to water conservancy infrastructure due to their concealed, recurring, and long-term destructive behaviors. Consequently, implementing termite monitoring in critical hydrological facilities—such as reservoirs—is essential for timely prevention and control. Owing to its real-time efficiency, environmental sustainability, and overall effectiveness, [...] Read more.

Termites pose a threat to water conservancy infrastructure due to their concealed, recurring, and long-term destructive behaviors. Consequently, implementing termite monitoring in critical hydrological facilities—such as reservoirs—is essential for timely prevention and control. Owing to its real-time efficiency, environmental sustainability, and overall effectiveness, the intelligent termite monitoring system has gradually emerged as a pivotal strategy for termite management. This paper systematically expounds upon the fundamental principles, overarching architecture, and key features of the current intelligent termite monitoring technology in China. Drawing on its practical application in the Suokoutan Reservoir, we detail the specific implementation procedures and examine the corresponding outcomes. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis of the system’s prospective development is presented, providing feasible references and scientific guidance for advancing termite monitoring, early warning, and control in water conservancy projects.Full article

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With ongoing technological advancements, artificial tactile systems have become a prominent area of research, aiming to replicate human tactile capabilities and enabling machines and devices to interact with their environments. Achieving effective artificial tactile sensing relies on the integration of high-performance pressure sensors, [...] Read more.

With ongoing technological advancements, artificial tactile systems have become a prominent area of research, aiming to replicate human tactile capabilities and enabling machines and devices to interact with their environments. Achieving effective artificial tactile sensing relies on the integration of high-performance pressure sensors, precise signal acquisition, robust transmission, and rapid data processing. In this study, we developed a sensor array system based on flexible pressure sensors designed to recognize objects of varying shapes and sizes. The system comprises a multi-channel acquisition circuit and a signal transmission circuit and employs a convolutional neural network (CNN) to classify distinct signal patterns. In a test on an individual, the test results demonstrate that the system achieves a high recognition accuracy of 99.60% across two sphere sizes, three cylinder sizes, a cone, and a rectangular prism. In a group of eight people, it can achieve a recognition accuracy of 93.75%. Furthermore, we applied this sensor array system in an experimental setting involving a ball-throwing action, and it effectively recognized four distinct stages: empty hand, holding the ball, throwing, and catching. In repeated tests by other individuals, it was also able to clearly distinguish each stage. The development of artificial tactile systems allows robots to engage with their environments in a more nuanced and precise manner, enabling complex tasks such as surgical procedures, enhancing the interactive experience of wearable devices, and increasing immersion in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). When integrated with deep learning, artificial tactile sensing shows significant potential for creating more intelligent and efficient applications.Full article

A high-temperature and high-pressure experimental device was upgraded to accommodate a maximum pressure of 40 MPa and a maximum temperature of 800 °C. Using this experimental device, one-dimensional oxidation displacement experiments were carried out via air injection in the Hudson original reservoir to [...] Read more.

A high-temperature and high-pressure experimental device was upgraded to accommodate a maximum pressure of 40 MPa and a maximum temperature of 800 °C. Using this experimental device, one-dimensional oxidation displacement experiments were carried out via air injection in the Hudson original reservoir to change the pressure from low pressure (5 MPa) to high pressure (30 MPa) and via air injection after water injection under 30 MPa high-pressure conditions. A stable medium–high-temperature thermal oxidation front and displacement state could be formed in the experiments under different pressure measurements of 5 MPa, 15 MPa, and 30 MPa and in the air injection experiment after water injection under high pressure, at 30 MPa, which was similar to the oxidation front and displacement characteristics of heavy oil air injection in situ combustion. However, as the pressure increased, the air consumption and fuel consumption became smaller, and the temperature of the oxidation front became lower. And compared with the original reservoir, the air consumption and fuel consumption of air injection after water injection increased, and the temperature of the oxidation front became higher. This was completely different from the law of heavy oil in situ combustion. With the increase in pressure, the pore volume number (PV) of the injected air was smaller, the gas production/injection ratio was smaller, and the oil displacement efficiency was higher. Therefore, the stability of the 30 MPa high-pressure air injection displacement was better. The gas/oil ratio (GOR) produced by 30 MPa air injection after water injection in the experiment was stable, and air injection after water injection could reduce the water cut and greatly improve oil displacement efficiency. Therefore, air-injection-enhanced oil recovery technology was still feasible in the reservoir after water injection.Full article

In the context of an ageing society, advancements in medicine and biomedical technology are becoming increasingly important. A major goal is to minimise the number of surgical operations. Magnesium alloys are gaining attention due to their degradable properties, good biocompatibility, and osteoconductivity. However, [...] Read more.

In the context of an ageing society, advancements in medicine and biomedical technology are becoming increasingly important. A major goal is to minimise the number of surgical operations. Magnesium alloys are gaining attention due to their degradable properties, good biocompatibility, and osteoconductivity. However, for implants made from this material to be usable, a precise understanding of the degradation rate and a correspondingly adapted design must be available. This work focuses on constructing a suitable experimental chamber for degradation analysis, as well as investigating the impact of sample positioning on degradation using two different geometries of WE43 alloy for potential use as osteosynthesis implants. Optical and mechanical tests were carried out on these geometries. The tests revealed that the sample positioning in the experimental chamber affects degradation, with the central position yielding the most suitable results for future applications. In addition, mechanical tests demonstrated reduced mechanical properties in the degradation layer. This work provides an initial basis for further investigations into the use of the WE43 alloy as an osteosynthesis implant and supports the numerical calculation of degradation.Full article

With the ongoing urbanization and densification of cities worldwide, the planning and utilization of urban underground space (UUS) have become crucial for developing urban underground infrastructure. Given the limited construction space within dense urban areas and the influence of declining groundwater levels, technologies [...] Read more.

With the ongoing urbanization and densification of cities worldwide, the planning and utilization of urban underground space (UUS) have become crucial for developing urban underground infrastructure. Given the limited construction space within dense urban areas and the influence of declining groundwater levels, technologies such as open caissons and various vertical shaft methods have been introduced for UUS development. However, the dissemination of these technologies remains fragmented across different domains, lacking systematic summarization. A comprehensive, up-to-date overview of open caisson and vertical shaft technologies is essential for their effective application. In the manuscript, a systematic analysis of vertical shaft technologies, specifically focusing on their use in soft ground conditions, is conducted. The analysis is based on an extensive literature review and case study evaluation. It addresses the unique challenges posed by high compressibility, low bearing capacity, and groundwater sensitivity. Conventional shaft technologies and mechanized systems, including open caissons, drilled shafts, and the novel pressed-in ultra-deep assembled shafts (PIAUS), are evaluated systematically. Key aspects such as design principles, construction techniques, and stability in soft soils are discussed. The limitations of conventional methods in soft UUS are highlighted, while the advantages of advanced mechanized systems—such as rapid construction, reduced environmental impact, and improved safety—are emphasized. A detailed comparison of case studies demonstrates that PIAUS construction technology is particularly efficient in urban areas with confined spaces, dense building conditions, and ground conditions up to 200 MPa, with shaft diameters up to 12.8 m and depths of 115.2 m. Additionally, its suitability for rapid construction in soft and medium ground conditions is supported by undrained excavation with parallel excavation and liner sinking techniques. The PIAUS technology shows considerable potential for future projects, including shield construction shafts, ventilation shafts for tunnels, underground parking garages, and stormwater storage wells. This manuscript also highlights emerging mechanized methods in underground space development, their advantages, limitations, and areas for future research and improvement.Full article

Shorter product life cycles and the growing demand for mass customization have led to the development of complex production systems, which are crucial for maintaining competitiveness. In this context, digital technologies and simulation tools play a fundamental role in integrating virtual and physical [...] Read more.

Shorter product life cycles and the growing demand for mass customization have led to the development of complex production systems, which are crucial for maintaining competitiveness. In this context, digital technologies and simulation tools play a fundamental role in integrating virtual and physical systems to enhance operational performance. This study presents a prototype for self-programming manufacturing systems, achieved through the integration of computer simulation and production management tools, leveraging the Digital Twin (DT) concept. To validate this approach, a prototype capable of interacting with a simulation model was developed. In the event of a failure that compromises product delivery conditions, the simulation model is activated to reprogram the production system’s operating parameters, ensuring compliance with initial production requirements and minimizing the impact of disruptions. The tests confirmed effective data exchange between the physical and virtual environments. Additionally, intentional failures were introduced in the real environment to assess system behavior. Each time a failure occurred, the simulation model generated new operating parameters, adjusting the working speed in the real environment and thereby maintaining the production system’s ability to meet its requirements. Consolidating the application of self-reprogramming.Full article

The fourth member of the Triassic in the Tahe Oilfield, as one of the key strata for clastic rock reservoirs, poses significant challenges to oil and gas exploration due to unclear identification of its depositional environments and sedimentary microfacies. Based on the guidance [...] Read more.

The fourth member of the Triassic in the Tahe Oilfield, as one of the key strata for clastic rock reservoirs, poses significant challenges to oil and gas exploration due to unclear identification of its depositional environments and sedimentary microfacies. Based on the guidance of sequence stratigraphy and sedimentological theories, this study comprehensively analyzed well logging data from more than 130 wells, core analysis from 9 coring wells (including lithology, sedimentary structures, and facies sequence characteristics), 3D seismic data (covering an area of 360 km²), and regional geological background. Combined with screening and settling method granularity experiments, the sedimentary characteristics of the sand body in the fourth member were systematically characterized. The results indicate the following: (1) In the Tahe Oilfield, the strata within the fourth member of the Triassic are predominantly characterized by marginal lacustrine subfacies deposits, with delta-front subfacies deposits developing in localized areas. (2) From the planar distribution perspective, influenced by the northwestern provenance, a small deltaic depositional system developed in the early stage of the fourth member in the northwestern part of the Triassic Akekule Formation. This system was dominated by subaqueous distributary channel sand bodies, which were subjected to erosion and reshaping by lake water, leading to the formation of several stable sand bars along the lake shoreline. In the later stage of the fourth member, as the lake level continued to recede, the area of deltaic deposition expanded westward, and deltaic deposits also developed in the central to slightly eastern parts of the study area. Based on this, a depositional model for the fourth member of the Triassic in the Tahe Oilfield has been established. (3) In the Tahe Oilfield, the sand bodies within the fourth member of the Triassic system gradually pinch out into mudstone, forming lithological pinch-out traps. Among these, the channel sand bodies and long belt sand ridges, due to their good sorting and high permeability, become favorable reservoirs for oil and gas accumulation. This study clarifies the sedimentary model of the fourth member and reveals the spatial differentiation mechanism of sand bodies under the control of lake-level fluctuations and ancient structures. It can provide exploration guidance for delta lake sedimentary systems similar to the edge of foreland basins, especially for efficient development of complex lithological oil and gas reservoirs controlled by multistage lake invasion–lake retreat cycles.Full article

Environmental conditions, job tasks, and clothing choices influence the thermal comfort of workers. While it is impossible to control outdoor environmental conditions, selecting appropriate clothing for workers is feasible. Personal protective equipment often does not completely protect outdoor workers at high air temperatures. [...] Read more.

Environmental conditions, job tasks, and clothing choices influence the thermal comfort of workers. While it is impossible to control outdoor environmental conditions, selecting appropriate clothing for workers is feasible. Personal protective equipment often does not completely protect outdoor workers at high air temperatures. In such cases, cooling garments can help dissipate body heat and be worn with standard work clothes or uniforms. Currently, there is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding the characterisation of this type of garment. This study employed an innovative laboratory testing method that integrates a thermal manikin with a computer simulation program to assess the thermal sensation and comfort of various garment types in different activities and environmental conditions. This advanced approach enables a thorough evaluation of cooling garments that considers their physical properties and interactions with the human body. The findings confirm the efficacy of the tested cooling mechanisms, highlighting that the air circulation mechanism was the only one that consistently maintained user comfort across low, medium, and high metabolic activity levels. This study aims to assist users in selecting the most suitable cooling mechanism for the market based on the type of work or activity being performed.Full article

This review evaluates the application of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly neural networks, in diagnosing and staging periodontal diseases through radiographic analysis. Using a systematic review of 22 studies published between 2017 and 2024, it examines various AI models, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), [...] Read more.

This review evaluates the application of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly neural networks, in diagnosing and staging periodontal diseases through radiographic analysis. Using a systematic review of 22 studies published between 2017 and 2024, it examines various AI models, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), hybrid networks, generative adversarial networks (GANs), and transformer networks. The studies analyzed diverse datasets from panoramic, periapical, and hybrid imaging techniques, assessing diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and interpretability. CNN models like Deetal-Perio and YOLOv5 achieved high accuracy in detecting alveolar bone loss (ABL), with F1 scores up to 0.894. Hybrid networks demonstrate strength in handling complex cases, such as molars and vertical bone loss. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including reduced performance in severe cases, limited datasets for vertical bone loss, and the need for 3D imaging integration. AI-driven tools offer transformative potential in periodontology by rivaling clinician performance, improving diagnostic consistency, and streamlining workflows. Addressing current limitations with large, diverse datasets and advanced imaging techniques will further optimize their clinical utility. AI stands poised to revolutionize periodontal care, enabling early diagnosis, personalized treatment planning, and better patient outcomes.Full article

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This study investigates the formation of by-product species during flame spray synthesis (SFS) of superparamagnetic maghemite (γ-Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles. Four samples are synthesized by utilizing two standardized burner types (SpraySyn1 and SpraySyn2) and varying the iron (III) nonahydrate (INN) concentration [...] Read more.

This study investigates the formation of by-product species during flame spray synthesis (SFS) of superparamagnetic maghemite (γ-Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles. Four samples are synthesized by utilizing two standardized burner types (SpraySyn1 and SpraySyn2) and varying the iron (III) nonahydrate (INN) concentration (0.1 M and 0.2 M) in the precursor feed while using ethanol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid as solvent. Conducting complementary powder analysis revealed a predominant presence of carboxylates and carbonates as by-product species (~14–18 wt.%), while no strong indications for elemental carbon and precursor/solvent residues can be found. Carbonates/carboxylates are located on particle surfaces, and the particles’ surface loadings by these species are independent of the precursor concentration but depend on burner type, with SpraySyn2 exhibiting lower values, indicating a more complete combustion for this burner. Through time-resolved thermophoretic sampling, we further demonstrate that carbon forms temporally in the visible flame center when using SpraySyn1. Since carbon solely forms momentarily within large flame pulses and decomposes further downstream, its temporal formation is of minor relevance for the final particle purity. However, its local co-existence aside from γ-Fe₂O₃ in the flame has potential to bias in situ diagnostics.Full article

Artificial muscles underlie exciting, novel technologies that have many wide-reaching applications: exoskeleton actuation, walker robots, prosthetics and stealthy underwater propulsion. Actuating these muscles via electrostatic forces promises excellent energy efficiency and output force density and a high strength-to-weight ratio. Building these muscles through [...] Read more.

Artificial muscles underlie exciting, novel technologies that have many wide-reaching applications: exoskeleton actuation, walker robots, prosthetics and stealthy underwater propulsion. Actuating these muscles via electrostatic forces promises excellent energy efficiency and output force density and a high strength-to-weight ratio. Building these muscles through 3D-printed and conductive microfluidics promises fast mass production at a low cost. A microfluidic double-helix weave as a potential solution for the architectural design of these actuators has previously been reported. However, more recent experimental work showed that a weave architecture was not manufacturable at the necessary scale, given the limitations of current 3D-printing technology. Herein, several alternative architectures are presented. They are more advanced and more compatible with current manufacturing requirements, and offer additional benefits. The presented experimental results confirm their improvements in manufacturability. These advanced architectures represent a significant step towards the experimental proof of principle and the practical implementation of electrostatic microfluidic 3D-printed artificial muscles.Full article

This study empirically analyzed whether any differences exist in older adults’ motivations to use senior citizen centers based on the type of eldercare system, focusing on senior citizen centers in Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea. First, the main factors influencing older adults’ use of [...] Read more.

This study empirically analyzed whether any differences exist in older adults’ motivations to use senior citizen centers based on the type of eldercare system, focusing on senior citizen centers in Yeongdo-gu, Busan, South Korea. First, the main factors influencing older adults’ use of senior citizen centers were identified through previous studies. Subsequently, data were collected through a survey. Data groups were categorized according to the type of eldercare system, and multiple regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between the main variables for each type of eldercare system. It was found that the primary age group of older adults using senior citizen centers was 65–69 years, with home- and community-based care being their primary choices. Furthermore, community-based and institutional care facilitated connections within the community, encouraged social interaction among older adults, and fostered intergenerational interaction and social contribution. Home-based care was strongly motivated by emotional stability and the desire to maintain independent living. Finally, participation in cultural activities was common and significant across all eldercare system types, confirming that senior citizen centers play a crucial role in providing cultural experiences and opportunities for older people, as opposed to simply serving as recreational spaces.Full article

With the rise of virtual avatars in professional, educational, and recreational settings, this study investigates how different avatar types—varying in realism, gender, and identity—affect user perceptions of embodiment, acceptability, technostress, privacy, and preferences. Two studies were conducted with 42 participants in Study 1 [...] Read more.

With the rise of virtual avatars in professional, educational, and recreational settings, this study investigates how different avatar types—varying in realism, gender, and identity—affect user perceptions of embodiment, acceptability, technostress, privacy, and preferences. Two studies were conducted with 42 participants in Study 1 and 40 in Study 2, including professionals and students with varying VR experiences. In Study 1, participants used pre-assigned avatars they could control during interactions. In Study 2, an interviewer used different avatars to interact with participants and assess their impact. Questionnaires and correlation analyses measured embodiment, technostress, privacy, and preference variations across contexts. Results showed that hyper-realistic avatars resembling the user enhanced perceived embodiment and credibility in professional and educational settings, while non-realistic avatars were preferred in recreational contexts, particularly when interacting with strangers. Technostress was generally low, though younger users were more sensitive to avatar appearance, and privacy concerns increased when avatars were controlled by others. Gender differences emerged, with women expressing more concern about appearance and men preferring same-gender avatars in professional environments. These findings highlight the need for VR platform designers to balance realism with user comfort and address privacy concerns to encourage broader adoption in professional and educational applications.Full article