Search Results (478)

The weather research and forecasting (WRF) model is frequently used to investigate the meteorological field around nuclear installations. The configuration of physical process parameterization schemes in the WRF model has a significant impact on the accuracy of the simulation results. Consequently, carrying out a pre-experiment to quickly obtain the optimal combination of parameterization schemes is essential before conducting meteorological parameter research. To obtain the optimal combination of physical process parameterization schemes from the planetary boundary layer (PBL), land surface (LSF), microphysical (MP), long-wave (LW), and short-wave (SW) radiation processes of the WRF model for simulating the near-surface meteorological variables near a nuclear power plant in Sanshan Town, Fuqing City, Fujian Province, China on 4 June 2019 were observed. Orthogonal experimental design (OED), a comprehensive evaluation method based on the CRiteria Import Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) weight analysis, and comprehensive balance method were employed for the first time to conduct the research. The sensitivity of meteorological variables to physical processes was first discussed. The findings revealed that the PBL scheme configuration had a profound impact on simulating wind fields. Furthermore, the LSF scheme configuration had a significant influence on simulating near-surface temperature and relative humidity, which was much greater than that of other physical processes. In addition, the choice of the radiation scheme had a significant impact on how the temperature was distributed close to the ground and how the wind field was simulated. Furthermore, the configuration of the MP scheme was found to exert a certain influence on the simulation of relative humidity; however, it demonstrated a weak influence on other meteorological variables. Secondly, The MYNN3 scheme for PBL process, the NoahMP scheme for LSF process, the WSM5 scheme for MP process, the RRTMG scheme for LW process, and the Dudhia scheme for SW process are found to be the comprehensive optimal physical process parameterization scheme combination for simulating meteorological variables in the research area selected in this study. As evident from the findings, the use of the OED method to obtain the combinations of the optimal physical process parameterization scheme could successfully reproduce the wind field, temperature, and relative humidity in the current study. Thus, this method appears to be highly reliable and effective for use in the WRF models to explore the optimal combinations of the physical process parameterization scheme, which could provide theoretical support to quickly analyzing accurate meteorological field data for longer periods and contribute to deeply investigating the migration and diffusion behavior of airborne pollutants in the atmosphere. Full article

This study proposes incorporating generative artificial intelligence large language models (LLMs) into the Master of Science (M.Sc.) curriculum on digitization in construction. The aim was to help students generate computer code to solve, automate, and streamline practical challenges in advanced construction engineering and management (CEM). To this end, a host of problem-based learning (PBL) individual assignments and collaborative team projects were developed, alongside a combination of flipped classroom models and blended learning lessons, in order to teach effective interactions with LLMs and mitigate concerns, such as bias and hallucination. The effective interaction with LLMs not only facilitated code generation, which would otherwise be complex without additional formal training, but also provided a platform for strengthening basic project management skills, such as departmentalization, work breakdown structuring, modularization, activity delegation, and defining key performance indicators. The effectiveness of this approach was quantitatively and qualitatively evaluated within two new modules, Digital Engineering and Construction and Digital Technologies in Field Information Modeling. These modules were offered over three semesters each as part of a new M.Sc. program in Technology and Management in Construction at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. It was observed that 86.4% of students fully completed the PBL projects, while the remaining 13.6% achieved over 50% completion across all six semesters. Furthermore, anonymous student surveys indicated a teaching quality index of 100% in five semesters and 96.4% in one semester. These preliminary results suggest that the proposed strategy can be used to effectively integrate LLMs to support students in code generation for open-ended projects in CEM. Further research was, however, found to be necessary to ensure the sustainable revision and redesign of the problems as LLM capabilities evolve. Full article

The Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate 2 (COSMIC-2) collects data covering latitudes primarily between 40 degrees north and south, providing abundant data for tropical cyclone (TC) research. The radio occultation data provide valuable information on the boundary layer. However, quality control of the data within the boundary layer remains a challenging issue. The aim of this study is to obtain a more accurate COSMIC-2 radio occultation (RO) dataset through quality control (QC) and use this dataset to validate warm core structures and explore the planetary boundary layer (PBL) structures of TCs. In this study, COSMIC-2 data are used to analyze the distribution of the relative local spectral width (LSW) and the confidence parameter characterizing the random error of the bending angle. An LSW less than 20% is set as a data QC threshold, and the warm core and PBL composite structures of TCs at three intensities in the Northwest Pacific Ocean are investigated. We reproduce the warm core intensity and warm core height characteristics of TCs. In the radial direction of the typhoon eyewall, the impact height of the PBL increases from 3.45 km to 4 km, with the tropopause ranging from 160 hPa to 100 hPa. At the bottom of the troposphere, the variations in the positive and negative bias between the RO-detected and background field bending angles correspond well to the PBL heights, and the variations in the positive bias between the RO-detected and background field refractivity reach 14%. This research provides an effective QC method and reveals that the bending angle is sensitive to the PBL height. Full article

This study explored the antimicrobial potential of Piper betle L. (PBL) and Piper nigrum L. (PNL) extracts against MRSA. Plant parts including stem, leaf, and fruit were extracted using aquadest, methanol, and hexane, resulting in 18 distinct extracts. FT-IR combined with cluster analysis (CA) categorized the extracts, and anti-MRSA activity was assessed through the paper disk diffusion method. The most potent extracts were further analyzed using GC-MS to identify bioactive compounds. Additionally, molecular docking studies were conducted for MRSA protein targets (4DKI, 6H5O, and 4CJN). The hexane extract of PNL and the aqueous extract of PBL fruit showed the strongest inhibitory effects. GC-MS identified piperine (14.22%) and diisooctyl phthalate (14.67%) as major compounds, with piperolein B, piperanine, β-caryophyllene oxide, and α-caryophylladienol as minor compounds in the hexane extract of PNL, while hydroxychavicol (81.89%) and chavibetol (12.01%) were predominant in the aquadest extract of PBL. Molecular docking revealed that piperolein B and piperine had strong binding affinities to MRSA proteins 4DKI, 6H5O, and 4CJN, comparable to ciprofloxacin. In conclusion, this study confirms the potential of PBL and PNL as sources of novel anti-MRSA agents, supporting further research to develop new therapies. Full article

Periodontal disease is a widespread global health concern that necessitates an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Traditional diagnostic methods based on panoramic radiographs are often limited by subjective evaluation and low-resolution imaging, leading to suboptimal precision. This study presents an approach that integrates Super-Resolution Generative Adversarial Networks (SRGANs) with deep learning-based segmentation models to enhance the segmentation of periodontal bone loss (PBL) areas on panoramic radiographs. By transforming low-resolution images into high-resolution versions, the proposed method reveals critical anatomical details that are essential for precise diagnostics. The effectiveness of this approach was validated using datasets from the Chungbuk National University Hospital and the Kaggle data portal, demonstrating significant improvements in both image resolution and segmentation accuracy. The SRGAN model, evaluated using the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM) metrics, achieved a PSNR of 30.10 dB and an SSIM of 0.878, indicating high fidelity in image reconstruction. When applied to semantic segmentation using a U-Net architecture, the enhanced images resulted in a dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 0.91 and an intersection over union (IoU) of 84.9%, compared with 0.72 DSC and 65.4% IoU for native low-resolution images. These results underscore the potential of SRGAN-enhanced imaging to improve PBL area segmentation and suggest broader applications in medical imaging, where enhanced image clarity is crucial for diagnostic accuracy. This study also highlights the importance of further research to expand the dataset diversity and incorporate clinical validation to fully realize the benefits of super-resolution techniques in medical diagnostics. Full article

This study explores the in vitro effects of cyanotoxins from the methanolic extract of the cyanobacteria Aphanizomenon flos-aquae and Microcystis aeruginosa on human blood cells, with samples drawn from the Gruža reservoir in Serbia. These cyanobacteria, which made up 98.5% of the reservoir’s phytoplankton, reached densities of 4,656,450 cells mL⁻¹, with A. flos aquae (3,105,120 cells mL⁻¹) as the dominant species, followed by M. aeruginosa (1,480,130 cells mL⁻¹). A cyanotoxin analysis of biomass detected anatoxin-a (3.56 µg g⁻¹), cylindrospermopsin (6.86 µg g⁻¹), microcystin LR (0.87 µg g⁻¹), and microcystin RR (2.47 µg g⁻¹). This study assessed the genotoxic potential of the methanolic extract of the cyanobacterial biomass by evaluating the DNA damage and the Genetic Damage Index (GDI) in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from healthy donors. The results showed a dose-dependent increase in the DNA damage, from 35.67 ± 4.93% at 10 µg mL⁻¹ to 95.67 ± 1.53% at 100 µg mL⁻¹, with a corresponding rise in the GDI from 0.61 ± 0.02 to 2.39 ± 0.07. The extract also caused the concentration-dependent hemolysis of red blood cells, with 5.63% hemolysis at the highest concentration (200 µg mL⁻¹). These findings underscore the significant genotoxic risks posed by cyanotoxins from biomass extracts of A. flos aquae and M. aeruginosa, particularly in water sources used for human consumption. Full article

This review article discussed the challenges faced during the implementation of active learning methods within the traditional teaching environment at the Complutense University of Madrid. These challenges encompass interactions with colleagues, students, and the classroom itself. It is essential for educators to have confidence that the outcomes achieved through these teaching approaches will not be adversely impacted by the quality assessment system of surveys. The university should adopt a teaching quality assessment framework that differentiates between the instructor’s efficiency and the effectiveness of teaching methods. Students need to recognize the significance of developing critical thinking skills over rote memorization throughout their academic journey and understand the importance of this for their future professional development. Suggestions are also made for improving teamwork in traditional classrooms, which typically follow standard teaching methods. Full article

Project-based learning (PBL) has gained traction in higher education as an effective pedagogical approach that promotes active learning, critical thinking, and the practical application of knowledge. Unlike traditional lecture-based methods, PBL engages students in collaborative projects that simulate real-world challenges, thereby enhancing their problem-solving skills. However, a notable gap exists in understanding how these theoretical benefits translate into actual student experiences. Therefore, this study aims to investigate undergraduate students’ perspectives and experiences in project-based learning. By understanding students’ perspectives and experiences, this research highlights the benefits, challenges, and overall effectiveness of PBL. A qualitative research design was employed, involving in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 30 undergraduate students. The students were exposed to project-based learning in research methodology and software development courses. The interviews were conducted in person and via video conferencing, ensuring a comfortable environment for participants to share their insights. The data collected from the interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. The thematic analysis revealed several key themes: the importance of consistent attendance due to the tailored and sequential nature of PBL; the facilitation of deeper understanding and the practical application of theoretical concepts; difficulties in adapting to PBL, especially when transitioning from traditional teaching methods; benefits and logistical challenges of collaboration; the crucial role of the iterative process of assessment and feedback in mastering concepts; and the fostering of autonomy and the development of essential skills such as time management and problem-solving. Full article

Artemisia ordosica polysaccharides (AOP) can promote animal growth, improve intestinal morphology, regulate immunity, and enhance antioxidant capacity. To investigate the antioxidant capacity of AOP, three experiments were conducted. (1) Different concentrations of AOP (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 μg/mL) and 1 µg/mL VA on peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) treated with/without lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were investigated to select the optimum concentration. The results showed that 150 μg/mL AOP had significant antioxidation activity. (2) The PBLs was randomly divided into eight treatments with six replicates, namely CON, AOP, LPS, ML385 (Nrf2 inhibitor), AOP + LPS, AOP + ML385, LPS + ML385 and LPS + ML385 + AOP. The results showed that under a normal condition or stress condition, AOP presented antioxidation activity via upregulating Nrf2/Keap1 pathway-related gene expression. (3) The PBLs was randomly divided into eight treatments with six replicates, namely CON, AOP, LPS, PDTC (NF-κB inhibitor), AOP + LPS, AOP + PDTC, LPS + PDTC and LPS + PDTC + AOP. The results showed that under a normal condition, AOP presented antioxidation activity via increasing TLR4/NF-κB pathway-related gene expression; under a stress condition, AOP alleviated oxidative damage caused by LPS via suppressing TLR4/NF-κB pathway-related gene expression. Full article

Anatomy education has evolved significantly with the introduction of diverse instructional techniques. This review evaluates these methods, including traditional cadaver dissection, three-dimensional (3D) model printing, virtual dissection using tools like the Anatomage table, problem-based learning (PBL), and the use of wax and plastinated models. Each approach presents unique benefits and challenges. Cadaver dissection remains invaluable for providing hands-on experience and a deep understanding of anatomical structures, although it faces ethical, logistical, and financial constraints. Wax and plastinated models offer durable, precise representations of anatomical structures without the ethical concerns associated with cadavers. Additionally, 3D printing and virtual dissection have emerged as effective supplementary tools, enhancing spatial understanding and allowing repeated practice. PBL integrates anatomical knowledge with clinical reasoning, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The main aim of this study was to gather and analyze students’ opinions on various anatomy teaching methods, while a secondary objective was to review the literature on novel and traditional approaches in anatomy education. This review emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of teaching methods to create a dynamic and engaging anatomy curriculum, preparing students for clinical practice. Full article

In today’s dynamic business landscape, companies need to enhance problem-solving efficiency to produce products or services to meet evolving customer needs. Fostering creative talent and utilizing Group Decision Support Systems (GDSS) have become crucial in the management of human resources and marketing. While empirical studies demonstrate the positive impact of GDSS on learning, a gap exists in understanding its correlation with outcomes like enhanced creativity. Thus, qualitative research is needed to uncover the cognitive processes for favorable results with the adoption of GDSS. We explored the relationship between Project-Based Learning (PBL), GDSS deployment, and outcomes in a cross-organizational study. Results highlighted PBL activities facilitated by GDSS and the key benefits of digital learning, and managerial and academic considerations were proposed. Full article

The marketing industry is rapidly evolving, prompting educational programs to adapt and provide graduates with relevant skills and knowledge. This systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis (SLRBA) explores the incorporation of problem-based learning (PBL) in marketing education. PBL is a teaching approach that encourages students to solve real-world problems by integrating theory and practice, thereby improving their critical thinking and decision-making skills. Our review synthesizes data from 71 sources, detailing the definition of PBL, strategies for its implementation in marketing education, and the associated benefits and challenges. The findings show that PBL enhances student engagement, provides hands-on experience, and equips students for real-world marketing challenges. Effective strategies for PBL adoption include leveraging social media, serious games, E-learning, and feedback systems to facilitate active learning and student participation. However, PBL poses challenges, such as high resource requirements, student resistance, and concerns over information accuracy. This review underscores the importance of PBL in closing the gap between theoretical concepts and practical skills, helping marketing students better meet industry expectations. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research and best practices for integrating PBL in marketing education. Full article

The reproduced planetary boundary layer (PBL) wind is commonly applied in downscaled simulations using commercial CFD codes with Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence modeling. When using the turbulent inlets calculated by numerical weather prediction models (NWP), adjustments of the turbulence eddy viscosity closures and wall function formulations are concerned with maintaining the fully developed wind profiles specified at the inlet of CFD domains. The impact of these related configurations is worth discussing in engineering applications, especially when commercial codes restrict the internal modifications. This study evaluates the numerical performances of open-source OpenFOAM 2.3.0 and commercial Fluent 17.2 codes as supplementary scientific comparisons. This contribution focuses on the modified turbulence closures to incorporate turbulent profiles produced from mesoscale PBL parameterizations and the modified wall treatments relating to the roughness length. The near-ground flow features are evaluated by selecting the flat terrains and the classical Askervein benchmark case. The improvement in near-ground wind flow under the downscaled framework shows satisfactory performance in the open-source CFD platform. This contributes to engineers realizing the micro-siting of wind turbines and quantifying terrain-induced speed-up phenomena under the scope of wind-resistant design. Full article

This paper investigates the impact of air quality and climate variability during the first wave of COVID-19 associated with accelerated transmission and lethality in Wuhan in China and four European metropolises (Milan, Madrid, London, and Bucharest). For the period 1 January–15 June 2020, including the COVID-19 pre-lockdown, lockdown, and beyond periods, this study used a synergy of in situ and derived satellite time-series data analyses, investigating the daily average inhalable gaseous pollutants ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and particulate matter in two size fractions (PM2.5 and PM10) together with the Air Quality Index (AQI), total Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) at 550 nm, and climate variables (air temperature at 2 m height, relative humidity, wind speed, and Planetary Boundary Layer height). Applied statistical methods and cross-correlation tests involving multiple datasets of the main air pollutants (inhalable PM2.5 and PM10 and NO₂), AQI, and aerosol loading AOD revealed a direct positive correlation with the spread and severity of COVID-19. Like in other cities worldwide, during the first-wave COVID-19 lockdown, due to the implemented restrictions on human-related emissions, there was a significant decrease in most air pollutant concentrations (PM2.5, PM10, and NO₂), AQI, and AOD but a high increase in ground-level O₃ in all selected metropolises. Also, this study found negative correlations of daily new COVID-19 cases (DNCs) with surface ozone level, air temperature at 2 m height, Planetary Boundary PBL heights, and wind speed intensity and positive correlations with relative humidity. The findings highlight the differential impacts of pandemic lockdowns on air quality in the investigated metropolises. Full article

Project-Based Learning (PBL), as an experiential methodology, improves learning outcomes and competencies (technical and non-technical) in engineering students. The Conceive–Design–Implement–Operate (CDIO) approach, adopted globally in engineering education, is based on PBL but expands the curriculum framework. Developed by MIT and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Sweden, CDIO focuses on the entire life cycle of engineering projects to train engineers so that they are capable of applying knowledge in real-life situations. Integrating CDIO and PBL into engineering curricula requires changes in teaching methodologies, teacher training and workspaces. The literature has explored their combination, highlighting shared values and mutual reinforcements. An assessment model is crucial for implementing PBL and evidencing improvement in student and course skills. Only through assessment and the cycle of continuous improvement will the adoption of PBL in engineering programs be advanced. A systematic review of the literature is proposed to identify effective methods in the evaluation of educational programs based on PBL, analyzing related research areas and evaluations according to the CDIO approach. Full article