bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Community Maternal and Newborn Health Family Meetings on Type of Birth Attendant and Completeness of Maternal and Newborn Care Received During Birth and the Early Postnatal Period in Rural Ethiopia
Authors: Barry Danika , Frew Aynalem Hailemichael , Mohammed Hajira , Desta Binyam Fekadu , Tadesse Lelisse , Aklilu Yeshiwork , Biadgo Abera , Buffington Sandra Tebben , Sibley Lynn M.
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Maternal and newborn deaths occur predominantly in low‐resource settings. Community‐based packages of evidence‐based interventions and skilled birth attendance can reduce these deaths. The Maternal and Newborn Health in Ethiopia Partnership (MaNHEP) used community‐level health workers to conduct prenatal Community Maternal and Newborn Health family meetings to build skills and care‐seeking behaviors among pregnant women and family caregivers.

Methods

Baseline and endline surveys provided data on a random sample of women with a birth in the prior year. An intention‐to‐treat analysis, plausible net effect calculation, and dose‐response analysis examined increases in completeness of care (mean percentage of 17 maternal and newborn health care elements performed) over time and by meeting participation. Regression models assessed the relationship between meeting participation, completeness of care, and use of skilled providers or health extension workers for birth care—controlling for sociodemographic and health service utilization factors.

Results

A 151% increase in care completeness occurred from baseline to endline. At endline, women who participated in 2 or more meetings had more complete care than women who participated in fewer than 2 meetings (89% vs 76% of care elements; P < .001). A positive dose‐response relationship existed between the number of meetings attended and greater care completeness (P < .001). Women with any antenatal care were nearly 3 times more likely to have used a skilled provider or health extension worker for birth care. Women who had additionally attended 2 or more meetings with family members were over 5 times as likely to have used these providers, compared to women without antenatal care and who attended fewer than 2 meetings (odds ratio, 5.19; 95% confidence interval, 2.88‐9.36; P < .001).

Discussion

MaNHEP's family meetings complemented routine antenatal care by engaging women and family caregivers in self‐care and care‐seeking, resulting in greater completeness of care and more highly skilled birth care.
CHARGE syndrome: A review
Authors: Hsu Peter , Ma Alan , Wilson Meredith , Williams George , Curotta John , Munns Craig F , Mehr Sam
Published: February 2014

CHARGE syndrome is a complex genetic syndrome, owing to the wide range of tissues/systems affected by mutations in the CHD7 gene. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis, clinical features and management of CHARGE syndrome.
Tuberculosis in children
Authors: Marais Ben J
Published: February 2014

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major, but often unrecognised, cause of disease and death in young children from countries with high TB incidence rates among adults. It is also relevant to paediatricians in low‐incidence countries, such as Australia, because of increased international travel, immigration and refugee resettlement. This manuscript provides a brief overview of the global TB disease burden, the natural history of disease in children, and offers guidance on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of TB in children.
Macrobenthic surf zone communities of temperate sandy beaches: spatial and temporal patterns
Authors: Carcedo Cecilia , Fiori Sandra , Bremec Claudia
Published: February 2014

The spatial and temporal patterns within the surf zone epibenthic assemblages were studied in a coastal fringe of Argentina to determine whether assemblage compositions, abundance, species richness and diversity vary spatially and temporarily. Sampling was conducted seasonally in two sandy beaches over 2 years with a benthic sledge used to collect the fauna in the upper centimeters of soft bottom sediments and the epifauna on the sediment surface. Physical variables were measured in the same coastal sites where biological sampling was conducted. A total of 58 morphospecies were collected. Peracarid crustaceans were the most abundant group. The mysid Pseudobranchiomysis arenae (new genus–new species) (29.73 ± 17.79 ind. per sample) and the isopod Leptoserolis bonaerensis (51.54 ± 22.35 ind. per sample) were the most abundant and common species and were present regularly throughout the sampling period. Differences in the surf zone community composition were found between the beaches; these differences could be related to variation in physical parameters such as sand grain size and wave climate, indicating the possible influence of the morphodynamic state of the beaches on the epibenthic assemblages. A seasonal abundance trend was detected, reflecting the changes in abundance of the two dominant species; the richness pattern was not easily detectable due to the sporadic appearance of non‐resident species in the surf zone, probably due to different causes, including dispersion by entry of water from surrounding areas, littoral currents and storms. The surf zone studied presents a complex and dynamic epibenthic community that appears to be influenced by the morphodynamic state of the beach and the dynamic of non‐resident species.
High phylogenetic diversity of the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) at two mitochondrial DNA markers
Authors: LAWRENCE A. L. , BROWN G. K. , PETERS B. , SPIELMAN D. S. , MORIN‐ADELINE V. , ŠLAPETA J.
Published: February 2014

The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) (Bouché), is the most common flea species found on cats and dogs worldwide. We investigated the genetic identity of the cosmopolitan subspecies C. felis felis and evaluated diversity of cat fleas from Australia, Fiji, Thailand and Seychelles using mtDNA sequences from cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) and II (cox2) genes. Both cox1 and cox2 confirmed the high phylogenetic diversity and paraphyletic origin of C. felis felis. The African subspecies C. felis strongylus (Jordan) is nested within the paraphyletic C. felis felis. The south East Asian subspecies C. felis orientis (Jordan) is monophyletic and is supported by morphology. We confirm that Australian cat fleas belong to C. felis felis and show that in Australia they form two distinct phylogenetic clades, one common with fleas from Fiji. Using a barcoding approach, we recognize two putative species within C. felis (C. felis and C. orientis). Nucleotide diversity was higher in cox1 but COX2 outperformed COX1 in amino acid diversity. COX2 amino acid sequences resolve all phylogenetic clades and provide an additional phylogenetic signal. Both cox1 and cox2 resolved identical phylogeny and are suitable for population structure studies of Ctenocephalides species.
Diagnostic criteria for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome proposed by the Joint Committee of the Japanese Society of Nephrology and the Japan Pediatric Society
Authors: Sawai Toshihiro , Nangaku Masaomi , Ashida Akira , Fujimaru Rika , Hataya Hiroshi , Hidaka Yoshihiko , Kaname Shinya , Okada Hirokazu , Sato Waichi , Yasuda Takashi , Yoshida Yoko , Fujimura Yoshihiro , Hattori Motoshi , Kagami Shoji
Published: February 2014

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is rare and comprises the triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. Recently, abnormalities in the mechanisms underlying complement regulation have been focused upon as causes of aHUS. The prognosis for patients who present with aHUS is very poor, with the first aHUS attack being associated with a mortality rate of approximately 25%, and with approximately 50% of cases resulting in end‐stage renal disease requiring dialysis. If treatment is delayed, there is a high risk of this syndrome progressing to renal failure. Therefore, we have developed diagnostic criteria for aHUS to enable its early diagnosis and to facilitate the timely initiation of appropriate treatment. We hope these diagnostic criteria will be disseminated to as many clinicians as possible and that they will be used widely.
Photophysics of a Coumarin in Different Solvents: Use of Different Solvatochromic Models
Authors: Maity Banibrata , Chatterjee Aninda , Seth Debabrata
Published: February 2014

This study reported the photophysics of 7‐(diethylamino)coumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid N‐succinimidyl ester (7‐DCCAE) in different neat solvents of varying polarity using steady‐state absorption, fluorescence emission and picosecond time‐resolved spectroscopy. In nonpolar solvents, the dye molecule predominantly exists in nonpolar structure and exhibits very low value of nonradiative decay rate constant (knr), demonstrating the emission takes place from S1‐LE to S0 ground state. The fluorescence quantum yields, lifetime values of 7‐DCCAE in different solvents are rationalized on the basis of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) followed by twisted intramolecular charge transfer state formation (TICT) as well as specific solute–solvent interactions. Several solvatochromic models (such as Lippert, Dimroth, Kamlet–Taft, Catalán 3P and Catalán 4P models) were used to analyze the solvatochromic shift of 7‐DCCAE in different solvents. The different empirical models show that the observed results are better correlate for nonchlorinated solvents and provide statistically significant best‐fit result. A comparison was done between comparatively new solvatochromic model (Catalán 3P and Catalán 4P model) with Kamlet–Taft model. The ground state structure of the said molecule was optimized by using Density Functional Theory (DFT).
Spatio‐temporal water dynamics in mature Banksia menziesii trees during drought
Authors: Bader Martin K.‐F. , Ehrenberger Wilhelm , Bitter Rebecca , Stevens Jason , Miller Ben P. , Chopard Jerome , Rüger Simon , Hardy Giles E. S. J. , Poot Pieter , Dixon Kingsley W. , Zimmermann Ulrich , Veneklaas Erik J.
Published: February 2014

Southwest Australian Banksia woodlands are highly diverse plant communities that are threatened by drought‐ or temperature‐induced mortality due to the region's changing climate. We examined water relations in dominant Banksia menziesii R. Br. trees using magnetic leaf patch clamp pressure (ZIM‐) probes that allow continuous, real‐time monitoring of leaf water status. Multiple ZIM‐probes across the crown were complemented by traditional ecophysiological measurements. During summer, early stomatal downregulation of transpiration prevented midday balancing pressures from exceeding 2.5 MPa. Diurnal patterns of ZIM‐probe and pressure chamber readings agreed reasonably well, however, ZIM‐probes recorded short‐term dynamics, which are impossible to capture using a pressure chamber. Simultaneous recordings of three ZIM‐probes evenly spaced along leaf laminas revealed intrafoliar turgor gradients, which, however, did not develop in a strictly basi‐ or acropetal fashion and varied with cardinal direction. Drought stress manifested as increasing daily signal amplitude (low leaf water status) and occasionally as rising baseline at night (delayed rehydration). These symptoms occurred more often locally than across the entire crown. Microclimate effects on leaf water status were strongest in crown regions experiencing peak morning radiation (East and North). Extreme spring temperatures preceded the sudden death of B. menziesii trees, suggesting a temperature‐ or humidity‐related tipping point causing rapid hydraulic failure as evidenced by collapsing ZIM‐probe readings from an affected tree. In a warmer and drier future, increased frequency of B. menziesii mortality will result in significantly altered community structure and ecosystem function.
Involvement of ethylene in reversal of salt‐inhibited photosynthesis by sulfur in mustard
Authors: Nazar Rahat , Khan Md Iqbal R. , Iqbal Noushina , Masood Asim , Khan Nafees A.
Published: February 2014

Sulfur (S) assimilation results in the synthesis of cysteine (Cys), a common metabolite for the formation of both reduced glutathione (GSH) and ethylene. Thus, ethylene may have regulatory interaction with GSH in the alleviation of salt stress. The involvement of ethylene in the alleviation of salt stress by S application was studied in mustard (Brassica juncea cv. Pusa Jai Kisan). First, the effects of 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mM SO42− were studied on photosynthetic and growth parameters to ascertain the S requirement as sufficient‐S and excess‐S for the plant. In further experiments, the effects of sufficient‐S (1 mM SO42−) and excess‐S (2 mM SO42−) were studied on the alleviation of salt stress‐induced by 100 mM NaCl, and ethylene involvement in the alleviation of salt stress by S. Under non‐saline condition, excess‐S increased ethylene with less content of Cys and GSH and adversely affected photosynthesis and growth. In contrast, excess‐S maximally alleviated salt stress due to high demand for S and optimal ethylene formation, which maximally increased GSH and promoted photosynthesis and growth. The involvement of ethylene in S‐mediated alleviation of salt stress was further substantiated by the reversal of the effects of excess‐S on photosynthesis by aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), ethylene biosynthesis inhibitor. The studies suggest that plants respond differentially to the S availability under non‐saline and salt stress and excess‐S was more potential in the alleviation of salt stress. Further, ethylene regulates plants' response and excess S‐induced alleviation of salt stress and promotion of photosynthesis.
Superficial keratectomy for chronic corneal ulcers refractory to medical treatment in 36 cats
Authors: Jégou Jean‐Pierre , Tromeur Florence
Published: February 2014

Objective

To review the outcome of a case series in which superficial keratectomy was used as a treatment for chronic corneal ulceration.

Study design

Retrospective study

Animals studied

Thirty‐six cats (41 eyes) with ulcerative keratitis.

Results

Forty‐one superficial lamellar keratectomies were performed. Thirty‐two and a half percent (32.5%) of the ulcers were resolved within 2 weeks and 85% within 4 weeks after surgery. Nonhealing surgical cases after 4 weeks (13% of the eyes) resolved with prolonged postoperative medical treatment. The mean time to healing was 22.1 days (range 7–74 days). At the end of the follow‐up period (mean 8.9 months, range 1–36 months), 82.5% of eyes had regained very good to excellent corneal transparency. Nine cases relapsed (21.9% of the eyes) after surgery. Of those cases, the cornea of eight cats healed after undergoing medical treatment, and one underwent a second limited superficial lamellar keratectomy.

Conclusion

Superficial keratectomy in cats is an effective treatment to resolve chronic ulcerative keratitis refractory to medical treatment.
Workflow for Creating a Simulation Ready Virtual Population for Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Genc Kerim , Segars Paul , Cockram Steve , Thompson Dane , Horner Marc , Cotton Ross , Young Philippe
Published: February 2014

A proof of concept workflow is demonstrated to easily translate 3D medical image data into finite element (FE) simulation ready phantom models. First, novel methods are used to drastically reduce manual segmentation time for a virtual population. Next, using Simpleware software, the segmented voxel datasets are extracted into faceted 3D CAD objects for tissues, while simultaneously maintaining conformal multi-tissue interfaces. Finally, the 3D CAD geometries are demonstrated to be readily compatible in a commercial 3D electromagnetic simulator, ANSYS HFSS.
Multi-Body Modeling of Human Musculoskeletal System for an Exercise Therapy Method and its Verification
Authors: Kayo Munehiro Michael , Ohkami Yoshiaki
Published: February 2014

The objective of this paper is to establish a concise structural model of the human musculoskeletal system (HMS) that can be applied to an exercise therapy that treats malfunctions or distortions of the human body. There exist a number of traditional exercise therapy methods in Japan and China, but any systematic approaches for learning, coaching or training are not found to the best of the author’s knowledge. Among such approaches, we deal with an exercise therapy called Somatic Balance Restoring Therapy (SBRT) in which a patient executes a series of non-invasive and painless motions in face-up/down laid posture. Although thousands of results have been piled up in a fixed-format data base, justification for the SBRT has not been provided in bio/mechanical engineering sense. The purpose of modeling is a first step for this holistic approach. For such reasons, the model must be useful and uncomplicated for therapists to identify the problematic areas of the human body with adequate visualization while maintaining a theoretical thoroughness in mechanics or dynamics. To bridge multi-body dynamics and the SBRT, we have utilized a human body model with a collection of joint connected 15 rigid bodies in a topological tree configuration as used for humanoid robot with 80 Degrees-of-Freedom (DOF). In order to achieve the purpose stated above, we have developed a static force/torque balance equation for each body element. In addition, we will describe modeling processes, derivation of static equations, and estimation of parameters/states and verification based on the analysis of the FPS experimental data, and contact forces are parameterized with quantitative values to be given by the Force Plate System (FPS), installed at CARIS at the University of British Columbia (UBC).
MRI and CT Image-Fusion Based Aorta and Coronary Artery Model for In-Silico Feasibility Evaluation of Perfusion With an Ascending Aortic Pump, Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Albal Priti G. , Menon Prahlad G.
Published: February 2014

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are mechanical pumps that provide full or partial support of the circulation in patients with varying degrees of heart failure (HF). This simulation study explores the hemodynamic effects of a continuous flow pump deployed in the Ascending Aorta (AAo) specifically focusing on: (a) perfusion of the coronary arterial circulation and (b) the effect of induced non-physiologic, swirling flow discharged by the pump on perfusion to head-neck vessels of the aortic arch.
A Multiscale Specimen-Specific Data Set to Enable Comprehensive Modeling and Simulation of the Tibiofemoral Joint
Authors: Chokhandre Snehal , Erdemir Ahmet
Published: February 2014

The tibiofemoral joint is a complex structure and its overall mechanical response is dictated by its numerous substructures at both macro and micro levels. An in-depth understanding of the mechanics of the joint is necessary to develop preventative measures and treatment options for pathological conditions and common injuries. Finite element (FE) analysis is a widely used tool in joint biomechanics studies focused on understanding the underlying mechanical behavior at joint, tissue and cell levels [1]. Studies, regardless of their purpose (descriptive or predictive), when employing FE analysis, require anatomical and mechanical data at single or multiple scales. It is also critical that FE representations are validated and closely represent specifics of the joint of interest, anatomically and mechanically. This is an utmost need if these models are intended to be used to support clinical decision making (in surgery or for rehabilitation) and for the development of implants.
Implementation of Agent Based Model of Tissue Inflammation on a Graphics Processing Unit Platform
Authors: Li Yun (Yvonna) , Li Yee Key (Nicole) , Yazdi Alireza Najafi , Mongeau Luc
Published: February 2014

Scarring of the vocal folds is commonly caused by surgical injury or high impact voice use. As the by-product of the tissue healing in response to the injury, scarring involves a plethora of cells and chemicals whose interactions are dynamic and non-linear (Li et al, 2011). A thorough understanding of the wound healing process is needed. The ability to model cellular interactions using computer simulations constitutes the first step towards patient specific treatments of vocal fold injuries.
A New Method to Concentrate Electromagnetic Field Within ROI Using a High Dielectric Material in 3T Body MRI
Authors: Park Bu S. , Rajan Sunder S. , Angelone Leonardo M.
Published: February 2014

We present numerical simulation results showing that high dielectric materials (HDMs) when placed between the human body model and the body coil significantly alter the electromagnetic field inside the body. The numerical simulation results show that the electromagnetic field (E, B, and SAR) within a region of interest (ROI) is concentrated (increased). In addition, the average electromagnetic fields decreased significantly outside the region of interest. The calculation results using a human body model and HDM of Barium Strontium Titanate (BST) show that the mean local SAR was decreased by about 56% (i.e., 18.7 vs. 8.2 W/kg) within the body model.
Feasibility of Capturing Circulating Tumor Cells With a Magnetized Device
Authors: Wheaton Jay D. , Day Steven W.
Published: February 2014

Advancements in technology have led to the ability to tag virtually any cell with magnetic particles so long as the surface protein is known. In theory, these tagged cells may then be identified, imaged, or manipulated by magnetic force. In vitro separation using a magnetized stent and magnetically tagged cells was demonstrated by [1]. The motivation for this work was to investigate the feasibility of a magnetized inferior vena cava (IVC) filter for in vivo separation of metastatic cancer cells from the bloodstream. In use, the device would consist of a standard IVC filter plated with nickel, making it paramagnetic yet still biocompatible. The IVC filter is placed inside the vena cava, as is routinely done for other applications. Permanent magnets, which the patient would wear as an external vest, generate a field and the presence of the magnetized filter within this field can attract magnetic particles to the filter. In particular, our goal was to develop a numerical model that could be used to assess the feasibility and performance of such a device over a range of design space.
Deep Vadose Zone Remediation: Technical and Policy Challenges, Opportunities, and Progress in Achieving Cleanup Endpoints
Authors: Wellman D. M. , Freshley M. D. , Truex M. J. , Lee M. H.
Published: February 2014

Current requirements for site remediation and closure are standards-based and are often overly conservative, costly, and in some cases, technically impractical. Use of risk-informed alternate endpoints provides a means to achieve remediation goals that are permitted by regulations and are protective of human health and the environment. Alternate endpoints enable the establishment of a path for cleanup that may include intermediate remedial milestones and transition points and/or regulatory alternatives to standards-based remediation. A framework is presented that is centered around developing and refining conceptual models in conjunction with assessing risks and potential endpoints as part of a system-based assessment that integrates site data with scientific understanding of processes that control the distribution and transport of contaminants in the subsurface and pathways to receptors. This system-based assessment and subsequent implementation of the remediation strategy with appropriate monitoring are targeted at providing a holistic approach to addressing risks to human health and the environment. This holistic approach also enables effective predictive analysis of contaminant behavior to provide defensible criteria and data for making long-term decisions. Developing and implementing an alternate endpoint-based approach for remediation and waste site closure presents a number of challenges and opportunities. Categories of these challenges include scientific and technical, regulatory, institutional, and budget and resource allocation issues. Opportunities exist for developing and implementing systems-based approaches with respect to supportive characterization, monitoring, predictive modeling, and remediation approaches.
The Belgian R&D Feasibility Programme on the Geological Disposal of High-Level and Long-Lived Radioactive Waste
Authors: Van Marcke Philippe , Wacquier William
Published: February 2014

ONDRAF/NIRAS, the Belgian Agency for Radioactive Waste and Enriched Fissile Materials, considers geological disposal in poorly indurated clay as the reference solution for the long-term management of high-level waste (HLW) and intermediate and low level waste, long-lived (ILLW-LL). The disposal concept entails the post-conditioning of the waste in disposal packages and the subsequent disposal of these packages in an underground repository.

The R&D feasibility programme on geological disposal aims at demonstrating, at a conceptual level, that the proposed disposal system can be constructed, operated and closed.
The Simulation of Decontamination Works in Premises of the Research Reactor in NRC “Kurchatov Institute”
Authors: Danilovich Alexey , Ivanov Oleg , Potapov Victor , Smirnov Sergey , Stepanov Vyacheslav
Published: February 2014

Application of remote sensing methods using a spectrometric collimated system allows obtaining information about features of a formation of radiation fields in contaminated premises. This information helps in a preparation of a phased plan for dismantling of contaminated equipment. When the survey of technological premises of the research reactor at the Russian Research Centre “Kurchatov institute” was conducted the remote controlled collimated spectrometric system was used [1]. With its help the scanning of surveyed premises were carried out. As a result of this work, the distribution pattern of radionuclides activity was restored. The simulation of decontamination works was carried out and maps of the distribution of activity and dose rate for surveyed premises were plotted and superimposed on its photo for situations before and after decontamination. The use of obtained results will allow significantly reduce radiation dose for staff at work on dismantling.
ISO Standardization of Theoretical Activity Evaluation Method for Low and Intermediate Level Activated Waste Generated at Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Kashiwagi Makoto , Garamszeghy Mike , Lantès Bertrand , Bonne Sébastien , Pillette-Cousin Lucien , Leganes Jose Luis , Volmert Ben , James David W.
Published: February 2014

Disposal of low- and intermediate-level activated waste generated at nuclear power plants is being planned or carried out in many countries. The radioactivity concentrations and/or total quantities of long-lived, difficult-to-measure nuclides (DTM nuclides), such as C-14, Ni-63, Nb-94, α emitting nuclides etc., are often restricted by the safety case for a final repository as determined by each country’s safety regulations, and these concentrations or amounts are required to be known and declared. With respect to waste contaminated by contact with process water, the Scaling Factor method (SF method), which is empirically based on sampling and analysis data, has been applied as an important method for determining concentrations of DTM nuclides. This method was standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and published in 2007 as ISO21238 “Scaling factor method to determine the radioactivity of low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste packages generated at nuclear power plants”.

However, for activated metal waste with comparatively high concentrations of radioactivity, such as may be found in reactor control rods and internal structures, direct sampling and radiochemical analysis methods to evaluate the DTM nuclides are limited by access to the material and potentially high personnel radiation exposure.

In this case, theoretical calculation methods in combination with empirical methods based on remote radiation surveys need to be used to best advantage for determining the disposal inventory of DTM nuclides while minimizing exposure to radiation workers.

Pursuant to this objective a standard for the theoretical evaluation of the radioactivity concentration of DTM nuclides in activated waste, is in process through ISO TC85/SC5 (ISO Technical Committee 85: Nuclear energy, nuclear technologies, and radiological protection; Subcommittee 5: Nuclear fuel cycle). The project team for this ISO standard was formed in 2011 and is composed of experts from 11 countries. The project team has been conducting technical discussions on theoretical methods for determining concentrations of radioactivity, and has developed the draft International Standard of ISO16966 “Theoretical activation calculation method to evaluate the radioactivity of activated waste generated at nuclear reactors”.

This paper describes the international standardization process developed by the ISO project team, and outlines the following two theoretical activity evaluation methods:

— Point method

— Range method
State-of-the-Art on Instant Release of Fission Products From Spent Nuclear Fuel
Authors: Kienzler Bernhard , González-Robles Ernesto
Published: February 2014

Within the EURATOM FP7 Collaborative Project “Fast / Instant Release of Safety Relevant Radionuclides from Spent Nuclear Fuel (CP FIRST-Nuclides)”, a State-of-the-Art Report was prepared. The fast / instant release fraction (IRF) is defined as a fraction of the inventory of radionuclides that may be rapidly released from the fuel and fuel assembly materials at the time of canister breaching. In the context of safety analysis for a repository, the time span for mobilization of this fraction can be considered instantaneously, even if the process takes some time in experiments. Radionuclides contributing to the fast release are fission gases (Kr and Xe), easily soluble elements such as cesium and iodine, and other elements which are hardly incorporated in the UO2 crystal lattice.

The present contribution summarizes the results obtained from published studies focused on rapid release experiments carried out with different spent nuclear fuel (SNF), samples, sizes, techniques (batch and flow-through), and durations. A total of 80 experiments cover the study of UO2 SNF from pressure water reactors (PWR) of different initial enrichments and burn-up, while 20 experiments were performed with UO2 SNF from boiling water reactors (BWR) and 8 with MOX fuel.
HLRW Management During MR Reactor Decommissioning in NRC “Kurchatov Institute”
Authors: Chesnokov Alexander , Ivanov Oleg , Kolyadin Vyacheslav , Lemus Alexey , Pavlenko Vitaly , Semenov Sergey , Stepanov Vyacheslav , Smirnov Sergey , Potapov Victor , Fadin Sergey , Volkov Victor , Shisha Anatoly
Published: February 2014

A program of decommissioning of MR research reactor in the Kurchatov institute started in 2008. The decommissioning work presumed a preliminary stage, which included: removal of spent fuel from near reactor storage; removal of spent fuel assemble of metal liquid loop channel from a core; identification, sorting and disposal of radioactive objects from gateway of the reactor; identification, sorting and disposal of radioactive objects from cells of HLRW storage of the Kurchatov institute for radwaste creating form the decommissioning of MR. All these works were performed by a remote controlled means with use of a remote identification methods of high radioactive objects.

A distribution of activity along high radiated objects was measured by a collimated radiometer installed on the robot Brokk-90, a gamma image of the object was registered by gammavisor. Spectrum of gamma radiation was measured by a gamma locator and semiconductor detector system. For identification of a presence of uranium isotopes in the HLRW a technique, based on the registration of characteristic radiation of U, was developed.

For fragmentation of high radiated objects was used a cold cutting technique and dust suppression system was applied for reduction of volume activity of aerosols in air. The management of HLRW was performed by remote controlled robots Brokk-180 and Brokk-330. They executed sorting, cutting and parking of high radiated part of contaminated equipment.

The use of these techniques allowed to reduce individual and collective doses of personal performed the decommissioning. The average individual dose of the personnel was 1,9 mSv/year in 2011, and the collective dose is estimated by 0,0605 man×Sv/year.

Use of the remote control machines enables reducing the number of working personal (20 men) and doses. X-ray spectrometric methods enable determination of a presence of the U in high radiated objects and special cans and separation of them for further spent fuel inspection. The sorting of radwaste enabled shipping of the LLRW and ILRW to special repositories and keeping of the HLRW for decay in the Kurchatov institute repository.
The Role of Large Scale Demonstration Experiments in Supporting the Implementation of a High Level Waste Programme
Authors: Yoshimura K. , Gaus I. , Kaku K. , Sakaki T. , Deguchi A. , Vomvoris S.
Published: February 2014

Large scale demonstration experiments in underground research laboratories (both onsite and off-site) are currently undertaken by most high level radioactive waste management organisations. The decision to plan and implement prototype experiments, which might have a life of several decades, has both important strategic and budgetary consequences for the organisation. Careful definition of experimental objectives based on the design and safety requirements is critical. The implementation requires the involvement of many parties and needs flexible but consequent management as, for example, additional goals for the experiments, identified in the course of the implementation, might jeopardise initial primary goals.

The outcomes of an international workshop in which European and Japanese implementers (SKB, Posiva, Andra, ONDRAF, NUMO and Nagra) but also certain research organisations (JAEA, RWMC) participated identified which experiments are likely to be needed depending on the progress in implementing a disposal programme. Already earlier in a programme, large scale demonstrations are generally performed aiming at reducing uncertainties identified during the safety case development such as thermo-hydraulic-mechanical process validation in the engineered barrier system and target host rock. Also feasibility testing of underground construction in a potential host rock at relevant depth might be required. Later in a programme, i.e., closer to the license application, large scale experiments aim largely at demonstrating engineering feasibility and performance confirmation of complete repository components. Ultimately, before licensing repository operation, 1:1 scale commissioning testing will be required.

Factors contributing to the successful completion of large scale demonstration experiments in terms of planning, defining the objectives, optimising results and main lessons learned over the last 30 years are being discussed. The need for international coordination in defining the objectives of new large scale demonstration experiments is addressed.

The paper is expected to provide guidance to implementing organisations (especially those in their early stages of the programme), considering participating in and/or or conducting on their own large scale experiments in the near future.
The Manufacture and Use of Sludge Test Materials for R&D Purposes in the Treatment and Processing of Magnox Based Sludge
Authors: Blackburn D. R. , Thompson E. J.
Published: February 2014

Among the Intermediate Level Waste materials in store and awaiting treatment and processing in the UK are quantities of magnesium hydroxide sludge. This sludge is a product of radioactive magnox swarf which arose from the decanning of used magnox fuel element rods. As the swarf was stored underwater, a corrosion reaction occurred over the course of time between the magnox and the water resulting in a magnesium hydroxide based sludge. The differing conditions and materials present in the various storage areas means that the sludge can range in consistency from that of a slurry through to a thick clay.

Sludge test materials are required to underpin and validate the research and development equipment and processes that are to be used to treat the waste material. Necessary restrictions imposed on the sampling and testing of the radioactive waste means that the available data on the properties and behaviour of the sludge is limited. The raw materials used to create the sludge test materials are based upon magnesium hydroxide so that as far as possible the chemical behaviour will be similar to that of the waste material.

The most representative sludge test material is manufactured by the corrosion of non-radioactive magnox or magnesium. However, time constraints make it impractical to supply this material in sufficient quantities for full scale validation trials. An alternative is to use sludge manufactured from commercially available magnesium hydroxide. The particle shape of commercially available materials differs from corrosion product magnesium hydroxide which means that properties such as the rheological behaviour cannot be replicated. Nevertheless, valuable trial data can be obtained, giving a greater degree of confidence in the waste treatment process than would be possible if only the more representative but less available corrosion product materials were to be used.

Key test material parameters used in the trials have been identified as the particle size distribution and the sludge thickness (measured as yield shear strength). Other properties including cohesion, adhesion and rheological behaviour are also considered.

The use of different mixers for sludge manufacture has the potential to affect the behavioural properties and a brief description of each of these mixers is included. The scale of mixing has been found to make a significant difference to the ageing.

A chemical impurity in the commercially available materials has been successfully exploited, so that sludge mixed at comparatively low yield shear strengths can thicken into the consistency of clay. This aids manufacture and allows large quantities of thick material to be produced relatively easily.
Remediation of Subsurface and Groundwater Contamination With Uranium From Fuel Fabrication Facilities at Hanau (Germany)
Authors: Nitzsche Olaf , Thierfeldt Stefan , Hummel Lothar
Published: February 2014

This paper presents aspects of site decommissioning and clearance of a former fuel fabrication facility (development and production of fuel assemblies for research reactors and HTR) at Hanau (Germany). The main pathways for environmental contamination were deposition on soil surface and topsoil and pollution of deep soil and the aquifer by waste water channel leakage. Soil excavation could be done by classical excavator techniques. An effective removal of material from the saturated zone was possible by using advanced drilling techniques. A large amount of demolished building structure and excavated soil had to be classified. Therefore the use of conveyor detector was necessary. Nearly 100000 Mg of material (excavated soil and demolished building material) were disposed of at an underground mine. A remaining volume of 700 m3 was classified as radioactive waste. Site clearance started in 2006. Groundwater remediation and monitoring is still ongoing, but has already provided excellent results by reducing the remaining Uranium considerably.
Development of Separation Technique of Sodium Nitrate From Low-Level Radioactive Liquid Waste Using Electrodialysis With Selective Ion-Exchange Membranes
Authors: Irisawa Keita , Nakagawa Akinori , Onizawa Takashi , Kogawara Takafumi , Hanada Keiji , Meguro Yoshihiro
Published: February 2014

An advanced method, in which electrodialysis separation of sodium nitrate and decomposition of nitrate ion are combined, has been developed to remove nitrate ion from low-level radioactive liquid wastes including nitrate salts of high concentration. An engineering scale apparatus with two electrodialytic devices, in which the sodium and nitrate ions were separately removed by each device, was produced on the basis of the results of fundamental investigation previously reported, and the performance of the apparatus was tested. Both the ions were successfully removed at the same time, though these ions were separately transferred using two electrodialytic devices. And also effect of several experimental parameters such as current and temperature on current efficiency of both the ions of each device was investigated.
Distribution of Radioactive Cesium in Trees and Effect of Decontamination of Forest Contaminated by the Fukushima Nuclear Accident
Authors: Iijima K. , Funaki H. , Tokizawa T. , Nakayama S.
Published: February 2014

In decontamination pilot projects conducted by Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA), many different techniques were tested to determine their applicability to remediate areas evacuated after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident following the Great Tohoku earthquake and tsunami of March 11, 2011. In addition to buildings, roads and farmland, the forest adjacent to living areas was one of the main decontamination targets.

The projects evaluated the radioactive contamination of trees and the effectiveness of decontaminating a highly contaminated evergreen forest. This forest was located 1.3 km southwest of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and is dominated by Japanese cedar trees and fir trees.

As the first step, three Japanese cedar trees and three fir trees were cut down and the distributions of radioactive cesium (Cs) were measured in each. The total concentrations of 134Cs and 137Cs in the leaves and branches were about 1 MBq/kg for both cedar and fir trees, and were appreciably higher than in the bark for cedar. The concentrations in the outer part of the trunks (under the bark) were lower, on the order of 10 kBq/kg, and those in the core of the trunks were lower than 1 kBq/kg for both kinds of trees. The observation that the Cs concentrations are higher in the outer part of trees, is compatible with the assumption that radio-Cs was mostly adsorbed on the surface of trees and partly penetrated into the trunks through the bark.

Evolution of air dose rates in a 100 × 60 m pasture adjacent to the forest was monitored during decontamination of the forest and of the pasture itself. The dose rates in the pasture decreased drastically after stripping contaminated topsoil from the pasture and decreased slightly more after stripping contaminated topsoil of the forest floor and pruning the trees. Cutting down and removing 84 trees in the outermost area (10-m width) of the forest also slightly decreased these dose rates. After decontamination, the residual dose rates around the highly contaminated forest were mostly attributed to radioactive Cs existing in or on trees and topsoil in the untouched forest beyond the decontaminated area.
Development of a Specific Methodology to Assess Suitable Sites to Receive a Repository for L/ILW Waste in the Portuguese Territory
Authors: Paiva Isabel , Trindade Romão B. , Gonçalves Mário A. , Mateus António
Published: February 2014

Portugal does not have nuclear power plants but records an increasing production of radioactive waste from medical, industrial and research applications of radioactive materials in the form of sealed and unsealed sources; the country totals include also the spent fuel of one nuclear reactor for research purposes. Since radioactive waste management policies and practices in Portugal will have to comply with the Council Directive 2011/70/Euratom and the IAEA Joint Convention, the search for scientific and technological solutions to deal with radioactive wastes produced in the country started some years ago. The research carried out recently under the scope of a national funded project (KADRWaste, PTDC/CTE-GEX/82678/2006) represents a firm step in this commitment. Indeed, the transfer of methodologies tested and validated in this project allowed for improvement to a procedure to assess suitable sites to receive a near-surface repository for “Low and Intermediate Level Waste, Short Live and Long Live” (LILW-SL, LL) wastes in Portugal mainland. Although the main stages of the procedure can be of universal usage, details were designed according to the intrinsic geological, geomorphic and meteorological features of previously selected target-areas. All the requirements exhaustively listed in many reports of the IAEA were fulfilled and, in addition, the application of mineralogical, geochemical and textural criteria is strongly advised. The proposed procedure is based on a 5 key-steps approach preceded by clarification of the boundary conditions to be imposed, which are crucial to the inventory of various compulsory technical requirements. This analysis requires the adoption of stringent criteria, many of them of multi-disciplinary nature, including tests of vulnerability and assessment of uncertainty, besides the environmental impact risk. As a result, priority targets that are not excluded will integrate different classes and, depending on the existing knowledge, it will be possible to select locations suitable for the repository installation, taking into account also the political, social and administrative dimensions behind this decision.
Performance and Safety Assessment of the Co-Location of the Near Surface Radioactive Waste Disposal Facilities and Borehole Disposal Concept in the Philippines
Authors: Palattao Maria Visitacion , Vargas Edmundo , Reyes Rolando , Nohay Carl , Singayan Alfonso , Aurelio Mario , Gedeon Matej , Luna Roy Anthony C. , Mallants Dirk
Published: February 2014

The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) in collaboration with the interagency technical committee on radioactive waste has been undertaking a national project to find a final solution to the country’s low to intermediate level radioactive waste. The strategy adopted was to co-locate 2 disposal concepts that will address the types of radioactive waste generated from the use of radioactive materials. This strategy is expected to compensate for the small volumes of waste generated in the Philippines as compared to countries with big nuclear energy programs. It will also take advantage of the benefits of a shared infrastructure and R&D work that accompany such project.

The preferred site selected from previous site selection and investigations is underlain by highly fractured “andesitic volcaniclastics” mantled by residual clayey soil which act as the aquifer or water bearing layer. Results of investigation show that the groundwater in the area is relatively dilute and acidic. Springs at the lower elevations of the footprint also indicate acidic waters. The relatively acidic water is attributed to the formation of sulfuric acid by the oxidation of the pyrite in the andesite.

A preliminary post closure safety assessment was carried out using the GMS MODFLOW and HYDRUS softwares purchased through the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) technical assistance. Results from MODFLOW modeling show that the radionuclide transport follows the natural gradient from the top of the hill down to the natural discharge zones. The vault dispersion model shows a circular direction from the vaults towards the faults and eventually to the creeks. The contaminant transport from borehole shows at least one confined plume from the borehole towards the creek designated as Repo1 and eventually follows downstream. The influx of surface water and rainfall to the disposal vault was modeled using the HYDRUS software. The pressure head and water content at the base of the foundation layer and the bottom of the concrete is where a significant reduction in water content can be observed. It is also noted that water content and pressure remain constant after one year.