Integrity Assessment Research Articles

Qualitative benefits of MBESST in the selection of a restaurant location: Touristic restaurant Palencia de Lara, Toledo, Spain

Selecting the optimal location for a restaurant is a process that demands crucial and comparable data. The Model for the Best Site Selection for a Restaurant (MBESST) is a flexible model that combines quantitative and qualitative elements in assessing any restaurant site. This research provides the qualitative results derived from evaluating the location of an empirical case, Palencia de Lara Restaurant in Toledo, Spain, a tourist city. The design consisted of a non-experimental, transversal, and qualitative approach, using non-participant observation and interviews to gain a desirable appreciation of the issue. The global assessment's locations were 7.26, indicating the collection of essential components to maximize its appeal to guests. Palencia de Lara Restaurant should optimize its entire operational capacity more effectively. Flow pattern, visibility, and massive traffic generators were the three most essential factors in selecting this location. A significant contribution of the research is that using the definitions of the factors and sub-factors and the scale of specific quality levels allows for focusing on standard terms during the location assessment process. The designed instruments in the MBESST facilitate users to get an integral assessment of any locations of nine factors, fifty-one sub-factors, and individual quality levels of the sub-factors, enabling an in-depth analysis of each assessed element and comparing each other under the same parameters, gathering quantitative and qualitative data.

Analysis of long-term dynamics of morbidity by the method of complex assessment at different territorial levels

BACKGROUND: A comparative epidemiological analysis of the primary incidence of tuberculosis was performed using its standard approach with a generalized indicator that considers the main statistical criteria for incidence. The “sensitivity” of the method may vary depending on the population from analyzed territories.
 AIM: This study aimed to perform a comparative assessment of the epidemiology of tuberculosis (TB) in different territories based on the standard incidence rate and modified method of its integral assessment.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of the dynamics of the incidence of tuberculosis in the total population from the federal districts (FD) of Russia and participants from the Siberian Federal District (SFD) and urban municipalities of the Irkutsk Region (a structural unit of the SFD) between 2005 and 2019 was performed. Based on the obtained integral indicators, a generalized visibility coefficient was calculated.
 RESULTS: A significant decrease in the incidence of TB was found in all patients from FD and SFD participants. Assessment of the average long-term incidence rates showed that the maximum discrepancy between ranking places was inversely proportional to the size of the studied territories: 1.5 positions, at the level of the FD; two positions, at the level of regional formations; and five positions, at the level of urban settlements.
 CONCLUSIONS: The integral assessment method can be used in the primary analysis of morbidity in all types of infectious and noninfectious pathologies. The generalized morbidity criterion expands the informative possibilities of the standard indicator, contributes to the substantiation of risk areas at the initial stages of epidemiological analysis, and responds more “sensitively” to changes in the epidemiological situation in relatively small areas.

Compatibility assessment of thermal energy storage integration into industrial heat supply and recovery systems

Thermal energy storage (TES) systems can be used for recovering industrial waste heat and increasing energy efficiency, especially when coupled to batch thermal processes. Stratified water thermal storage tanks are the preferred technology for low-temperature applications, while molten salts are commonly used in medium and high-temperature applications with large storage capacities. No clear consensus exists on the appropriate TES technology for different industrial demands characteristics and their respective heat supply systems for medium and high-temperature applications. The present study analyzes several industrial sectors and their thermal processes, analyzing their temperature ranges, heat demands, and available TES technologies, which are classified by their operational conditions. The study presents two novel indicators for a preliminar compatibility assessment between TES and industrial sectors: a temperature compatibility indicator and exergy efficiency for TES and thermal processes. The results show that low and medium-temperature applications such as food, chemical, or textile industries exhibit high compatibilities with water (over 64%), high-temperature PCM (over 61%), and solid-state TES (100%), whereas molten salts and chemical looping demonstrate lower compatibility (below 24%). The exergy analysis for industrial cases shows that a lower temperature operating range for a TES induces low exergy efficiency. Regarding this scenario, high-temperature cPCM reaches efficiencies of over 44% for mid and high-temperature processes. Conversely, solid-state TES emerges as the most viable option for integration in high-temperature industries, exhibiting an efficiency of 62% with minimal exergy losses. The indicators defined in this study can be used for an early evaluation of TES integration in industrial applications, thus promoting emerging technologies selection through a quantitative comparison of the compatibility metrics.

Analyzing the transparency of corporate non-financial reporting

Subject. The article considers the use of ESG reporting as an information base to assess a business entity. Objectives. The aim is to carry out diagnostics of the degree of transparency of reporting information about the company's social environment. Methods. The study employs analytical and comparative techniques for information processing. Results. The paper lists objects that are reflected in modern non-financial reporting, characterizes the degree of their homogeneity. It also reveals the level of satisfaction of the information request in specific environmental and social areas, gives an integral assessment of transparency of the corporate non-financial reporting. Conclusions. It is crucial to introduce social accounting into the accounting discipline of companies. For this purpose, the study offers a system of socio-environmental responsibility.

Competence-Based Assessment in Tanzanian Teacher Education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Comprehensive Analysis

Competence-based assessment plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality and effectiveness of teacher education programs in the dynamic landscape of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Understanding the existing assessment practices and their alignment with competence-based principles is essential for enhancing the preparation of future educators in this context. This study examined the assessment practices in Tanzanian teacher education programs gaining insights into how student teacher assessment is done and the alignment of competence-based principles in the preparation of student teachers. A survey involving 531 participants was conducted to gather data on Statistical analysis were employed to explore variations in assessment experiences based on gender, age, and education level. The findings indicate that traditional pen-and-paper assessments remain the dominant assessment method in Tanzanian teacher education, comprising a substantial 69%. Notably, 52% of student teachers believe are evaluated on their aptitude to seamlessly integrate technology into teaching and learning, accentuating the criticality of digital skills. Furthermore, our study unveils a multifaceted assessment landscape for innovation and critical thinking, with 25.2% of students always feeling assessed, in contrast to 13.6% who seldom or never experience this evaluation. Remarkably, gender emerges as a potent influencer in technology integration assessments, while age distinctly shapes the evaluation of research skills and collaborative abilities. Moreover, the findings underscore that competence-based assessment in Tanzanian teacher education is progressively adapting to meet the demands of the 4IR. However, they also underscore the need for a more diversified and innovative assessment approach to effectively address the evolving educational landscape. This study highlights the pronounced impact of gender, age, and education level on assessment experiences, underscoring the imperative for tailored approaches in nurturing future educators.

P463 Infant neurocognitive screening with cerebral MRI and app-based assessment of generalised movements is feasible following exposure to maternal inflammatory bowel disease in-utero

Abstract Background Exposure to maternal inflammation in-utero is associated with an increased risk of neurocognitive developmental disorders in offspring, including cerebral palsy (CP). An increased risk of CP and neurological morbidity has been reported in infants of women with CD and UC in registry but not prospective cohort studies. Unsedated neonatal cerebral MRI (nMRI) allows for early assessment of brain microstructural integrity, with bipartietal diameter (BPD) predictive of cognitive and motor outcomes in preterm infants. Generalised movement assessments evaluate the character of infant’s spontaneous movements, can be undertaken remotely by parents with app-based technology (BabyMoves (BM) and are an early indicator of being high risk for cerebral palsy. nMRI & BM have not been used to screen for adverse neurocognitive outcomes in infants born to women with inflammatory disorders. We aimed to assess the feasibility of nMRI and BM in infants born to women with IBD and correlate abnormalities with maternal biochemical inflammation antenatally. Methods Pregnant women with IBD were assessed clinically and biochemically (faecal calprotectin (FC), CRP) in each trimester of pregnancy in this single centre prospective pilot study. Biochemically active disease was defined by FC >100ug/g or CRP >15mg/L. Infants underwent nMRI using a 1.5T MRI with T1-weighted and T2/proton density-weighted sequences performed at 6-12 weeks post-corrected term. Parents filmed 2 BM videos at 12-14 & 14-16 weeks post-corrected term. nMRIs (Figure 1) and BMs were scored by blinded reviewers with validated scoring systems. Metric nMRI data were corrected for gestational age (cGA). Descriptive statistics and spearman correlation coefficients were performed. Results 40 mother-baby pairs, 19 with CD & 20 exposed to a biologic drug, were recruited. Most patients were in biochemical remission throughout pregnancy with median FC <50ug/g and <13% having a CRP >15g/L in trimesters 1-3. At delivery 2/40 infants were premature, 4/40 low birth weight & 3/40 required neonatal intensive care. The median cGA at nMRI was 46 weeks 6 days (range 42 + 5-53 + 4). 2/39 MRI were of insufficient quality for scoring. 5/37 nMRI and 4/35 BM were abnormal, with 1/7 having a clinically significant adverse outcome (Table 1). Biparietal diameter did not correlate with maternal CRP or FC in any trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion nMRI & BM for infant neurocognitive disorder screening is feasible in the setting of maternal IBD. In this cohort of 40 infants, one clinically significant abnormality was identified in an infant of a mother with inactive IBD. Larger studies are required to stratify the risk of adverse neurocognitive outcomes in infants born to women with maternal inflammatory disorders.

A Method for Assessing the Level of Nonspecific Protection of the Human Body by Indicators Characterizing the Processes of Adaptation

The purpose of the research is to develop a method for assessing the level of nonspecific protection of the human body according to indicators characterizing the adaptation processes, the use of which in the decisive rules of forecasting and diagnosis of diseases ensures an improvement in the quality of decisions made.Methods. Numerous sources have a fairly detailed description of the protective mechanisms of the human body, implemented by non-specific and specific protection systems, which are closely related to such concepts as: adaptive potential, adaptive reserve, functional state and functional reserve. The paper investigates the use of indicators characterizing the adaptive potential and adaptive reserves for quantifying the nonspecific level of protection of the body from the effects of heterogeneous external factors. The methodology of synthesis of hybrid fuzzy decision rules is used as a basic mathematical apparatus.Results. The paper shows that to quantify the level of protection of the body, it is advisable to use an indicator of the activity of regulatory systems, adaptive potential, an indicator characterizing the immune-endocrine component of adaptation and an indicator characterizing the neuropsychic component of adaptation. For this system of indicators, a method has been developed to assess the level of protection based on basic indicators characterizing adaptation processes at the system-wide level, characterized by taking into account components characterizing various mechanisms for the formation of adaptive potential and adaptive reserve, taking into account the specifics of the data structure and ways of processing them for the best results in terms of quality and time of decisions. Fuzzy functions of the level of protection according to the selected system of indicators with an integral assessment of the level of protection of the body are obtained.Conclusion. The paper shows that in order to improve the quality of forecasting and diagnosis of socially significant and occupational diseases, it is advisable to use indicators of the level of protection of the body determined by adaptive mechanisms. It is established that the quality of decision–making using the proposed models increases by 10-15%, depending on the type of tasks being solved, compared with models that do not use indicators of the level of protection of the body.

Assessing the master curve reference temperature T0 estimated from the Charpy impact transition curve and consequences on the correlation between Charpy DBTT- and fracture toughness T0-shifts

Integrity assessment of reactor pressure vessels of light water reactors follows well established procedures relying on the surveillance program and defined by codes, standards and nuclear regulatory requirements. These procedures were developed in times where scientific knowledge was limited increasing therefore conservative safety margins to overcome the scientific shortcomings.Taking profit from the development of a number of test techniques and evaluation, it is possible nowadays to propose an alternative interpretation of the test results that provides a complementary information to the standard regulatory approach. In this work, the focus is on the Charpy impact test as it plays a critical role in surveillance programs monitoring reactor vessel degradation induced by neutron irradiation. The development of methodologies allowing experimental determination of fracture toughness from small size specimens triggered alternative approaches of extracting fracture toughness from the Charpy impact test. One of those approaches was recently successfully developed using the instrumented Charpy impact test from which the dynamic and static fracture toughness can be estimated with a reasonably good accuracy. This paper aims to provide an equally performant but simplified procedure allowing estimation of the master curve reference temperature, T0, from the Charpy impact transition curve applied to a large variety of reactor materials and irradiated conditions.

Development of a novel and specialised cementitious matrix overlay for anode embedment in impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) systems for reinforced concrete bridges

Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) is a widely utilised method for safeguarding reinforced concrete (RC) structures, including bridges, in marine environments. However, certain ICCP systems encounter degradation of the backfill mortar caused by acid formation at the anode. The acid produced reacts with the anode backfill mortar, compromising the functioning of the cathodic protection system. Rectifying the acidification issue typically involves replacing the backfill mortar and, in some cases, even the anode when it is negatively impacted by acid attack. This paper presents, for the first time, a specialised sustainable cementitious matrix that exhibits excellent acid resistance, intended for use as the anode's backfill material in ICCP systems. The proposed mortar effectively mitigates the effects of acidification around the anode, significantly enhancing the durability of the mortar and, consequently, the service life of bridges equipped with ICCP systems. The mechanical and durability performance of the mortar in an acidic environment is evaluated through various tests, including gravimetric analysis, dimensional changes, diffusion depth, compressive strength, direct tension, slant shear, impact resistance, and interface integrity assessments. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques are employed to investigate the material's performance. Subsequently, the specialised mortar is applied to cover Mixed Metal Oxide (MMO) activated titanium mesh anodes of the ICCP system in a reinforced concrete bridge, while its performance is continuously monitored. The results demonstrate that the proposed mortar effectively eliminates acidification issues and improves the performance and longevity of ICCP systems in harsh marine environments.

Exploring ecological effects of arsenic and cadmium combined exposure on cropland soil: from multilevel organisms to soil functioning by multi-omics coupled with high-throughput quantitative PCR

Arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd) pose potential ecological threats to cropland soils; however, few studies have investigated their combined effects on multilevel organisms and soil functioning. Here, we used collembolans and soil microbiota as test organisms to examine their responses to soil As and Cd co-contamination at the gene, individual, and community levels, respectively, and further uncovered ecological relationships between pollutants, multilevel organisms, and soil functioning. At the gene level, collembolan transcriptome revealed that elevated As concentrations stimulated As-detoxifying genes AS3MT and GST, whereas the concurrent Cd restrained GST gene expression. At the individual level, collembolan reproduction was sensitive to pollutants while collembolan survival wasn’t. At the community level, significant but inconsistent correlations were observed between the biodiversity of different soil keystone microbial clusters and soil As levels. Moreover, soil functioning related to nutrient (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur) cycles was inhibited under As and Cd co-exposure only through the mediation of plant pathogens. Overall, these findings suggested multilevel bioindicators (i.e., AS3MT gene expression in collembolans, collembolan reproduction, and biodiversity of soil keystone microbial clusters) in cropland soils co-contaminated with As and Cd, thus improving the understanding of the ecotoxicological impact of heavy metal co-contamination on soil ecosystems.

Risk Assessment for Hepatobiliary Toxicity Liabilities in Drug Development.

Risk assessment of hepatobiliary toxicities represents one of the greatest challenges and, more often than not, one of the most rewarding activities in which toxicologic pathologists can partake, and often times lead. This is in part because each liver toxicity picture is a bit different, informed by a broad range and diversity of relevant data, and also in part because the heavily relied upon animal models are imperfect regarding predictivity of hepatic effects in humans. Following identification and characterization of a hepatotoxicity hazard, typically in nonclinical toxicology studies, a holistic and integrated assessment of liver-relevant endpoints is conducted that typically incorporates ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) information (ideally, including extensive transporter data, exposure margins, and possibly concentration of parent/metabolite at region of injury), target expression/function, in silico prediction data, in vitro hepatocyte data, liver/circulating biomarkers, and importantly, species specificity of any of these data. Of course, a thorough understanding, developed in close partnership with clinical colleagues, of the anticipated liver disease status of intended patient populations is paramount to hepatic risk assessment. This is particularly important since the likelihood of translatable determinant hepatic events observed in nonclinical models to occur in humans has been reasonably well established.

Genome assembly and microsatellite marker development using Illumina and PacBio sequencing in Persicaria maackiana (Polygonaceae) from Korea.

Persicaria maackiana (Regel) is a potential medicinal plant that exerts anti-diabetic effects. However, the lack of genomic information on P. maackiana hinders research at the molecular level. Herein, we aimed to construct a draft genome assembly and obtain comprehensive genomic information on P. maackiana using high-throughput sequencing tools PacBio Sequel II and Illumina. Persicaria maackiana samples from three natural populations in Gaecheon, Gichi, and Uiryeong reservoirs in South Korea were used to generate genomic DNA libraries, perform genome de novo assembly, gene ontology analysis, phylogenetic tree analysis, genotyping, and identify microsatellite markers. The assembled P. maackiana genome yielded 32,179 contigs. Assessment of assembly integrity revealed 1503 (93.12%) complete Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs. A total of 64,712 protein-coding genes were predicted and annotated successfully in the protein database. In the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) orthologs, 13,778 genes were annotated into 18 categories. Genes that activated AMPK were identified in the KEGG pathway. A total of 316,992 microsatellite loci were identified, and primers targeting the flanking regions were developed for 292,059 microsatellite loci. Of these, 150 primer sets were randomly selected for amplification, and 30 of these primer sets were identified as polymorphic. These primers amplified 3-9 alleles. The mean observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.189 and 0.593, respectively. Polymorphism information content values of the markers were 0.361-0.754. Collectively, our study provides a valuable resource for future comparative genomics, phylogeny, and population studies of P. maackiana.

Comparative Analysis of Regional Socioeconomic Heterogeneous Indicators in the Subjects of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation and Their Integral Assessment

The Arctic Zone of Russian Federation (AZRF) is a unique geography with diverse socioeconomic factors playing significant roles in its stability and progress. In order to accurately assess and evaluate the overall socioeconomic progress of AZRF, the heterogeneous factors should be considered in an integrated manner, which will give a holistic view of the socioeconomic stability and development of the region. The available literature on socioeconomic development of Russian Arctic region however suffers from lack of integrated analysis of heterogeneous indicators. In this article, the authors have selected five heterogeneous indicators which best describe the socioeconomic condition of a given region, which in this case is AZRF and performed integral analysis for the time period 2014–2019. The indicators refer to socioeconomic aspects such as gross regional product and amount of investments received by the region, which in turn leads to changes in employment opportunities and income level of the population along with social benefits available to them. The mathematical instrument used for the analysis is the theory of fuzzy logic in the framework of determination of the subdirect image of a fuzzy set. This method is scalable and can be extended to any number of indicators of diverse nature since the final score will be in the range of [0, 1] making comparison of regions and ranking possible. Using this method, the subjects were ranked at individual indicator level and at holistic level as a result of which the advantages and disadvantages of each subject and the AZRF as a whole were determined. At holistic level, the subjects were ranked as Krasnayarsky Krai, Arkhangelsk Oblast, Republic of Komi, Murmansk Oblast, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Karelia Republic, Sakha Republic (Yakutia), Nenets Autonomous Okrug and Chukotka Autonomous Okrug based on the integral scores obtained. JEL Code: R11

Effects of α-Tocopherol on chilled quality parameters of Tharparkar bull semen extended in Lecithin and Tris based egg yolk extender

In this experiment, four healthy Tharparkar Cattle Bulls, 4-5 years aged were used. Total 52 (n=13) ejaculates were collected, and the semen samples having motility, morphology and viability ≥70% were processed and extended into BIOXcell­­­TM and Tris Based Egg Yolk extender supplemented with and without α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) 0.02 Mm/ml. Pre-thawed assessment of motility, morphology, viability and membrane integrity with BIOXcell­­­TM + α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) (79.09±0.87, 86.13±0.79, 82.13±1.20, 81.40±0.77) showed improved quality parameters as compared to Tris+ α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) (74.69±0.94, 82.81±1.00, 77.63±1.26, 77.31±1.01), BIOXcellTM (73.55±1.20, 80.81±0.96, 76.02±1.28, 75.31±1.20) and Tris (71.72±1.28, 78.90±1.01, 74.04±1.31, 73.18±1.29) respectively. In conclusion supplementation of α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) improves the Pre thawed quality parameters i.e. Motility, Morphology, Viability and Membrane Integrity of Tharparkar Bull semen extended in BIOXcell­­­TM and Tris Based Egg Yolk extender.

Modeling the Environmental Impact of Passenger Cars Driven on Hilly Roads in Austria: A More Accurate Valuation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Further Environmental Indicators for Integral Life Cycle Assessments of Road Infrastructures

Previous studies of road or railway infrastructures have shown that traffic emissions outweigh the environmental impacts of the product stage and construction stage over the entire life cycle. Traffic usage is therefore the main emitter over the life cycle (A1–C4). Due to the small number of sustainability assessment systems, the question of how to consider traffic emissions in detail in an integral life cycle assessment has arisen. This study examines Austrian car traffic and investigates environmental impacts beyond the scope of carbon dioxide and particulate matter. The results were determined for a selection of common impact indicators. In addition to driving in flat terrain, an approach is presented that enables the evaluation of emissions due uphill and downhill driving. Thus, route options and route closures/detours due to maintenance work can be evaluated in a simple way. During the analyses, a traffic calculator was developed, which can currently assess different cars depending on the route specifics (flat/hill). The tool can be expanded to include other road vehicles (buses, trucks, motorcycles) and trains as well. This will simplify evaluations and decision-making processes and provide optimal support for a future-proof sustainable built environment.

Evaluation of the Multiaxial Fatigue Life of Electro-Mechanical Actuator for Aircraft Blade Pitch Control Based on Certification Standards

To achieve the commercialization of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircrafts, which have recently garnered attention as the next-generation means of transportation, objective certification based on rigorous procedures is essential. With the advancement of structural analysis technology, aircraft airworthiness standards recommend a combination of testing and analytical methods to demonstrate structural integrity. In this study, we propose analytical techniques for demonstrating the structural integrity of components for eVTOL aircrafts in accordance with airworthiness standards. We evaluated the static structural integrity and fatigue safety of an electro-mechanical actuator. Multibody dynamics analysis was performed to calculate the loads for application in finite element analysis. Subsequently, static analysis and fatigue analysis based on finite element analysis were conducted to calculate the safety margin and fatigue life of all key components. Therefore, we have confirmed the feasibility of utilizing analytical methods for the structural integrity assessment of aircraft components. We propose the utilization of the technique introduced in this study as one of the approaches for demonstrating compliance with airworthiness standards for eVTOL aircrafts through the application of analytical methods.

Unleashing digital superheroes: Unravelling the empathy factor in digital competence and online teacher autonomy support

AbstractConsiderable research has been dedicated to studying teachers' digital competence, yet limited insights have been gained regarding its impact on online teacher autonomy support. Based on the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework, this study utilized a multiple regression analysis model to explore how teachers' digital competence affects online teacher autonomy support. Drawing on data from 652 Chinese primary school teachers, the study revealed that teachers' digital competence positively influenced online teacher autonomy support via teachers' cognitive empathy. Teachers' emotional empathy strengthened the direct effect of cognitive empathy on online teacher autonomy support, and its indirect effect on teachers' digital competence on online teacher autonomy support. The findings inform TPACK framework development and practical considerations in online teaching, deepening understanding of the impact of digital competence on online teacher autonomy support.Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic Previous research has recognized the importance of teachers' digital competence in supporting learners' autonomy and enhancing their online learning experiences. Existing studies have explored different dimensions of teachers' digital competence, including technological proficiency, pedagogical knowledge and content expertise. Studies have also examined the role of empathy in online teaching and learning, emphasizing its importance in fostering positive teacher–student relationships and promoting student engagement and motivation. What this paper adds This study introduces digital competence as a novel and comprehensive assessment of technology integration in teaching, bridging an existing gap in the literature. This study recognizes the importance of socio‐emotional skills in online teaching by including teachers' empathic traits within the expanded TPACK framework. Teachers' cognitive empathy acts as a mediator and emotional empathy functions as a moderator in the relationship between digital competence and online teacher autonomy support, offering new insights into the underlying mechanisms. Implications for practice and/or policy Teacher educators should find ways to support teachers' digital competence in facilitating learners' autonomy in online learning environments effectively. Teacher educators should incorporate teacher empathy development into teachers' professional development programmes for online teaching, offering tailored interventions to differentiate and enhance both cognitive and emotional empathy.

The additional value of weight-bearing radiographs in assessing stability of isolated type B fibular fractures

IntroductionIn isolated type B fibular fractures, the decision whether to operate or treat conservatively is principally based on congruency and stability of the ankle joint. The purpose of the current study is to examine the additional diagnostic value of the weight-bearing radiograph (WBR) in assessing stability of potentially unstable type B fibular fractures. Materials and MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, patients were selected based on who presented an isolated type B fracture of the fibula. Unstable fractures were directly planned for surgery. Other patients underwent additional weight-bearing imaging 4–7 days after initial trauma, on which definitive treatment was based. The medial clear space (MCS) was compared between the WBR and the conventional radiograph. ResultsA total of 70 patients were included in the period January 2018-December 2021. The average MCS on conventional mortise radiograph was 3.56 mm compared to 3.02 mm on the WBR(p<0.05). The superior clear space (SCS) was equal between both groups (respectively 3.12 mm and 3.08 mm, p = 0.44). All 70 patients were initially treated conservatively with immediate weight-bearing in a brace or soft cast. One patient had the need for open repair and internal fixation due to non-union. DiscussionDifferent techniques for the assessment of deep deltoid ligament integrity exist, such as the MRI, the ultrasonography and different kinds of stress test radiographs. As fractured ankles don't need direct fixation and operative treatment can be postponed, a stepped approach for the assessment of deep deltoid ligament (DDL) integrity can be of assistance in assessing ankle stability. In isolated type B fibular fractures a stepped approach, using the weight-bearing radiograph can be of additional value in assessing the stability. It is a low cost, prevents unnecessary surgery and contributes to a quick weight-bearing non-operative treatment.

Forecasting Prevention of Air Pollution Using Aan Intelligent Environmental System

The article deals with the actual problem of atmospheric air pollution with technogenic chemicals that negatively affect the ecology of the Salavat air basin of the Republic of Bashkortostan. An intelligent environmental monitoring system is proposed, which is able to give an integral assessment of the state of the city's air basin, identify sources of increased air pollution, process information using an artificial neural network in online mode, and also develop recommendations for enterprises to optimize their operating mode.

Highly detailed structural integrity assessment of the reactor pressure vessel nozzle of Atucha-I during a pressurized thermal shock event

In pressurized water reactor (PWR) nuclear plants, reactor pressure vessel (RPV) nozzles are critical due to geometric stress concentrations that worsen with large temperature gradients. In the context of Atucha-I Long Term Operation (LTO) assessment, this work presents a high-fidelity thermo-mechanical simulation approach to verify the stress levels on the main nozzles of the vessel under a pressurized thermal shock event. Nucleoeléctrica Argentina S.A. (NA-SA) has provided the boundary conditions, including the thermal plume that results from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of the transient event. Then, using a one-way and non-conformal projection procedure, CFD data is coupled to a highly-detailed 3D finite element model (FEM), including the RPV, closure head, nuts and bolts, and moderator tank, all interconnected through non-linear contact condition that accounts for friction. Finally, a 3D FEM submodel assuming an elastoplastic material behavior with non-linear isotropic hardening is used to verify the structural integrity of the nozzle. Results indicate that the plastic strain and stresses on the nozzles are low enough to ensure the correct function of the reactor during the LTO period.