bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of multimodality imaging in the diagnosis of left ventricular noncompaction
Authors: Rao Karan , Bhaskaran Ashwin , Choudhary Preeti , Tan Timothy C.
Published: April 2020

Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a heterogeneous entity and, in reality, a likely spectrum of disease which is clinically associated with arrhythmia, thromboembolic complications and sudden cardiac death. With the emergence of cardiac MRI (cMRI), the phenotype is increasingly more prevalent, resulting in clinical uncertainty regarding prognosis and management. The currently accepted hypothesis suggests an early embryonic arrest of the normal, sequential myocardial compaction process. LVNC is observed in isolation or in association with congenital heart disease, neuromuscular disease or a vast array of genetic cardiomyopathies. Definition of the entity varies among international society guidelines with differences both within and between imaging modalities, predominantly echocardiography and cMRI. Long‐term prognostic data are emerging but due to the intrinsic variability in reported prevalence, selection bias and lack of pathological to prognostic correlation, there are many uncertainties regarding clinical management. This review seeks to clarify the role of multimodality imaging in diagnosis and management of the disease. We discuss the sensitivity and specificity of the current diagnostic criteria, as well as the nuances in diagnosis using the available imaging modalities.
The cost of dental trauma management: A one‐year prospective study in children
Authors: Bani‐Hani Thikrayat Gh. , Olegário Isabel C. , O'Connell Anne C.
Published: April 2020

Background/Aims

Management of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) can be expensive and time‐consuming, yet very few studies have addressed the cost of their management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the total cost and the number of visits required to treat dental injuries to permanent incisors in children and adolescents over a 1‐year period.

Materials and Methods

Ninety‐five children with at least one traumatic dental injury to their permanent incisors were enrolled and managed according to the International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines. Injuries were grouped into complex (n = 74) and non‐complex injuries (n = 21) and divided by the date of injury. Total cost was the sum of the direct (capital, staff, materials and laboratory fees) and indirect costs (travel, childcare and missed working hours). All data were collected prospectively through hospital records and questionnaires at each visit over one year. Data were analysed using a linear regression model for the cost and the number of visits. Logistic regression was used to analyse differences between complex and non‐complex injuries (α = 5%).

Results

The mean total cost for complex and non‐complex injuries was €1687.9 and €1350.8, respectively. The treatment of non‐complex injuries was cheaper than for complex injuries (P = .047). The cost of follow‐up visits 4 years after the injury was significantly lower when compared to the treatment during the first year (P = .002). Travelling longer distances (>50 km) for treatment increased the overall cost of the treatment. There was no difference in the number of visits required for complex (mean = 5.6) and non‐complex (mean = 4.9) injuries, but there were significantly fewer visits required in year 4 onwards (P < .001).

Conclusion

Complex injuries presented a higher treatment cost, but the number of visits required was the same when compared to non‐complex injuries over the 1‐year evaluation. Further research in this area is encouraged to add to the limited available data.
Citizen Science, the Body of Christ, and Testimonial Epistemology
Authors: Friedrich Benedikt , Reichel Hanna , Renkert Thomas
Published: April 2020

How does explicit theological knowledge emerge out of communal practices, who is involved in its production, and what are its procedures? These are neither neutral nor arbitrary methodological questions; they are themselves deeply theological. Digital innovations and the subsequent transformations of society and academia invite us to redefine the work of theology. Epistemologically drawing on a theology of the cross and centring the communal nature and vulnerable existence of the witnessing community, we develop a model of doing theology that is collaborative and exploratory within the medial transformations of the digital age. Taking cues from participatory research conceptions of “citizen science,” we propose going toward and beyond a “citizen theology.” We need the courage to conceive of a theology that is ultimately centreless. Therefore, we cannot aspire to testimonially responsible forms of doing theology without striving for epistemic justice and diaconal empowerment at a global level. The “distributed theology” we envision promotes global (catholic), decentral (apostolic), and communal (local) forms of knowledge production by the whole of the body of Christ in ever more distributed ways.
Presentation, stabilisation and contrast‐enhanced computed tomographic (CT) diagnosis of a left gastrocaval portosystemic shunt in a pony foal
Authors: Terpstra M. , Gough S. L. , Parry A. T. , Loomes K. , Harkness A. , Rendle D. I. , Dixon J. J.
Published: April 2020

A 2‐week‐old pony foal was presented for recurrence of neurological dysfunction, obtunded‐comatose mentation and collapse. Signalment, history, haematological and clinical chemical measurements and response to treatment prompted a presumptive diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy secondary to a portosystemic shunt. This case differs from previous reported cases of  congenital portosystemic shunts in horses due to the early onset of clinical signs, which usually occur at 2–6 months of age. In addition, in comparison with previously reported cases, this foal stabilised rapidly with minimal intervention. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) confirmed a left gastrocaval extrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Surgical intervention was not attempted due to financial constraints, so the foal was subjected to euthanasia, and on post‐mortem examination, the anomalous vascular connection could clearly be identified.
Megafauna biogeography explains plant functional trait variability in the tropics
Authors: Dantas Vinicius L. , Pausas Juli G.
Published: April 2020

Aim

Biomes can diverge substantially in plant functional traits and disturbance regimens among regions. Given that Neotropical and Afrotropical regions have contrasting histories of the megafauna (because of the Holocene megafaunal extinction in the Neotropics), we hypothesize that they should harbour plants with different traits in relationship to herbivory and fire, especially in savannas. We predicted that herbivory resistance traits should be more prominent in Afrotropical savanna plants and fire resistance in Neotropical savanna plants.

Location

Tropics.

Time period

Not applicable.

Major taxa studied

Angiosperms (woody).

Methods

We compiled data for five key plant functional traits (wood density, specific leaf area, maximum tree height, spinescence and proportion of geoxyles) for forest and savanna woody species from the two distant regions (Afrotropics and Neotropics). We related these data to climate, soil and fire variables and tested predictions for megafauna selection.

Results

Spines and high wood density were more common among Afrotropical than Neotropical savanna species and species from the two forests. Moreover, the Neotropical savanna region contained more geoxyles than the Afrotropical savanna region. Finally, Afrotropical species were taller than Neotropical species. These differences were consistent with our predictions for trait selection by the megafauna, and these patterns did not change when considering climate, soil and fire regimens in the models.

Main conclusions

Our results highlight the great potential of these traits for summarizing disturbance strategy axes in tropical woody species and suggest that global variation in plant traits is unlikely to be understood fully without consideration of historical factors, especially the direct and indirect impacts of megafauna.
Advancing spray granulation by ultrasound atomization
Authors: Höhne Patrick , Mieller Bjoern , Rabe Torsten
Published: April 2020

The influence of the atomization technique on the suitability of granules for dry pressing is the focus of the presented investigations. Therefore, destabilized alumina, zirconia, and zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) slurries were spray dried and the obtained granules were used to fabricate green and finally sintered bodies for evaluation. Granules made in a laboratory spray dryer with a two‐fluid nozzle served as a reference. An ultrasonic atomizer was integrated into the same spray dryer and the influence on the granule properties was evaluated. Untapped bulk density, granule size distribution, and flowability are among the evaluated granule‐related properties as well as the granule yield which is used as an indicator of the process efficiency. Yield and flowability as most important granule properties are clearly improved when atomization is realized with ultrasound. The investigated sinter body properties include porosity, sinter body density, and biaxial strength and are as well positively affected by switching the atomization technique to ultrasound. Therefore, the approach to improve the compressibility of granules by ultrasonic atomization, which leads to an improved microstructure, density, and strength of sintered bodies, has proven to be successful for single‐component ceramics (alumina and zirconia) as well as for the multicomponent ceramic ZTA.
Highly effective inactivation of anti‐nutritional factors (lipoxygenase, urease and trypsin inhibitor) in soybean by radio frequency treatment
Authors: Jiang Yiming , Li Li , He Fang , Yan Wenxu , Tang Yali , Yang Ruijin , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2020

Radio frequency (RF) treatment at 27.12 MHz was employed to inactivate the anti‐nutritional factors (ANFs), including lipoxygenase (LOX), urease and trypsin inhibitor to minimise deleterious effects caused by conventional hot‐air heating. The effects of RF heating on the ANF activities, physicochemical properties and processing quality of intact soybean were investigated. The results revealed that ANF activities were effectively inactivated within 300 s by RF heating and inactivation rates of LOX, urease and trypsin inhibitor were 95.2% (270 s), 93.4% (285 s) and 89.4% (300 s), respectively. In addition, RF heating improved physicochemical properties and processing quality of soybean products when the trypsin inhibitor was inactivated. On the contrast, conventional thermal treatment significantly decreased functional properties and led to the formation of greater aggregates. Our results may provide a novel method to inactivate endogenous enzyme in crops without negative impact on processing quality.
Ecosocial innovations enabling social work to promote new forms of sustainable economy
Authors: Matthies Aila‐Leena , Peeters Jef , Hirvilammi Tuuli , Stamm Ingo
Published: April 2020

Social work research and practice that address environmental sustainability have already become prominent. However, a change in unsustainable economic structures is also urgently needed. This study explored emerging opportunities in theory and practice for a sustainable economy that are relevant to the aims of social work. As practical examples, our study concerns ‘ecosocial innovations’, i.e., social innovations that combine ecological and social goals. We analysed how these grassroots innovations in the field of social work reflect crucial shared conceptions of alternative economies. The qualitative data set comprised of 50 ecosocial innovations and six case studies in five European countries. The findings show a rich diversity of ecosocial innovations and describe how they reframe economic purposes, value economic diversity and democratise the economy. We suggest that social work might consider these practices as opportunities for collaboration, especially regarding work with people on the margins of the labour market.
Corporate carbon performance data: Quo vadis?
Authors: Busch Timo , Johnson Matthew , Pioch Thomas
Published: April 2020

Corporate carbon performance (CCP) has become a central topic in political, financial, and academic domains. At the same time, several characteristics of CCP data, including comparability and consistency, remain unresolved. The literature has extensively covered issues regarding the comparability of CCP data from a firm‐internal perspective. However, it has not yet examined the consistency of CCP data between third‐party data providers. This article investigates the degree of CCP data consistency between third‐party providers according to three dimensions: scope (i.e., direct and indirect emissions), scheme (i.e., mandatory and voluntary reporting schemes), and source (i.e., data stemming from corporate reports and from third‐party estimation methods). The results reveal that data on direct emissions are more consistent than data on indirect emissions, and they are especially inconsistent for Scope 3. Second, mandatory and voluntary reporting schemes do not substantially improve the consistency of CCP data, which is surprising. Third, third‐party estimations are less consistent as compared to data stemming directly from corporate reports; however, the combination of Scopes 1 and 2 third‐party estimated data raises consistency levels. On the basis of these results, we conclude the following key implications: academic researchers must be mindful of the consistency of CCP data, because it can significantly affect empirical results, corporate management should avoid situations where different CCP data are communicated externally, investors should engage firms to follow a standardized approach, data providers should increase the transparency about their estimation methods, and policy makers need to be aware of the importance of a sound and standardized methodology to determine CCP.
Societal cost of childhood intellectual disability in Australia
Authors: Arora S. , Goodall S. , Viney R. , Einfeld S.
Published: April 2020

Background

There is limited research quantifying the direct and indirect economic costs associated with intellectual disability (ID) in Australia. Costs incurred by families, governments and broader society include time spent providing care, absenteeism and increased healthcare utilisation. The purpose of this research is to quantify the costs associated with ID in childhood using a range of methods to collect cost data.

Methods

Costs included healthcare service utilisation, pharmaceutical use, caregiver productivity losses and time spent providing care because of the child's disability. The sample comprised caregivers with a child with ID aged between 2 and 10 years old recruited in Australia. Healthcare service utilisation and pharmaceutical use were obtained from routinely collected administrative claims data. Healthcare utilisation not captured in the routinely collected administrative data and absenteeism data were obtained from a retrospective recall‐based questionnaire. Time spent providing care because of the child's disability was obtained using a time‐use diary.

Results

The total cost of ID in Australia was estimated to be AUD 72 027 per year per child, and the total cost of ID in childhood was estimated to be AUD 12.5 billion per year. The cost to governments of ID in childhood was estimated to be AUD 6385 per child per year, resulting in a total cost to government of AUD 1.1 billion per year.

Conclusions

This is the first study to estimate the direct and indirect costs associated with ID in childhood. The results of this research demonstrate the considerable economic impact of ID in childhood on families, governments and broader society in terms of both direct and indirect costs. An understanding of the cost implications of any intervention are critical in assisting policymakers in planning and prioritising of health services.
A novel non‐bile acid FXR agonist EDP‐305 potently suppresses liver injury and fibrosis without worsening of ductular reaction
Authors: An Ping , Wei Guangyan , Huang Pinzhu , Li Wenda , Qi Xiaolong , Lin Yi , Vaid Kahini A. , Wang Jun , Zhang Shucha , Li Yang , Or Yat Sun , Jiang Li‐Juan , Popov Yury V.
Published: April 2020

Background

EDP‐305 is a novel and potent farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, with no/minimal cross‐reactivity to TGR5 or other nuclear receptors. Herein we report therapeutic efficacy of EDP‐305, in direct comparison with the first‐in‐class FXR agonist obeticholic acid (OCA), in mouse models of liver disease.

Methods

EDP‐305 (10 and 30 mg/kg/day) or OCA (30mg/kg/day) was tested in mouse models of pre‐established biliary fibrosis (BALBc.Mdr2‐/‐, n = 9‐12/group) and steatohepatitis induced by methionine/choline‐deficient diet (MCD, n = 7‐12/group). Effects on biliary epithelium were evaluated in vivo and in primary EpCAM + hepatic progenitor cell (HPC) cultures.

Results

In a BALBc.Mdr2‐/‐ model, EDP‐305 reduced serum transaminases by up to 53% and decreased portal pressure, compared to untreated controls. Periportal bridging fibrosis was suppressed by EDP‐305 at both doses, with up to a 39% decrease in collagen deposition in high‐dose EDP‐305. In MCD‐fed mice, EDP‐305 treatment reduced serum ALT by 62% compared to controls, and profoundly inhibited perisinusoidal ‘chicken wire’ fibrosis, with over 80% reduction in collagen deposition. In both models, treatment with 30mg/kg OCA reduced serum transaminases up to 30%, but did not improve fibrosis. The limited impact on fibrosis was mediated by cholestasis‐independent worsening of ductular reaction by OCA in both disease models; OCA but not EDP‐305 at therapeutic doses promoted ductular proliferation in healthy mice and favoured differentiation of primary HPC towards cholangiocyte lineage in vitro.

Conclusions

EDP‐305 potently improved pre‐established liver injury and hepatic fibrosis in murine biliary and metabolic models of liver disease, supporting the clinical evaluation of EDP‐305 in fibrotic liver diseases including cholangiopathies and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Many roads lead to Rome: Self‐regulatory strategies and their effects on self‐control
Authors: Hennecke Marie , Bürgler Sebastian
Published: April 2020

In a self‐control conflict, people face a dilemma between a current goal (e.g., to exercise regularly) and competing impulses, habits, or desires (e.g., to stay on the couch and continue watching TV). To resolve such conflicts in favor of their goals, individuals may capitalize on a variety of self‐regulatory strategies. In this article, we review recent research on the self‐regulatory strategies people use in their daily lives, research on the effectiveness of these strategies, and research on the consequences of self‐regulatory strategy use on well‐being. We furthermore take both an individual‐differences and a situational perspective by linking strategy use to individual differences between people (e.g., in self‐control) and by emphasizing that strategy effectiveness likely depends on situational context (e.g., on current demands). Finally, we introduce ideas and potential future research questions revolving around the role of individual differences in regulatory flexibility (including context‐sensitivity) for determining a person's self‐regulatory success.
Recent advances, misconceptions, untested assumptions, and future research agenda for identity fusion theory
Authors: Gómez Ángel , Chinchilla Juana , Vázquez Alexandra , López‐Rodríguez Lucía , Paredes Borja , Martínez Mercedes
Published: April 2020

Just a decade ago, two psychologists, Swann, and Gómez, developed a new theoretical framework to explain extreme pro‐group behaviors: identity fusion theory. Identity fusion refers to a visceral feeling of oneness with a group that motivates individuals to do extraordinary self‐sacrifices on behalf of the group or each of its members. Since the formulation of the theory, interdisciplinary researchers of the five continents have conducted dozens of studies on identity fusion, both in laboratory and field settings. Research has deepened into the causes, consequences, underlying mechanisms, and applications of identity fusion. The development of fusion‐based research has been steadfast and very prolific. Hence, the first section of the current manuscript includes an updated overview of this fast growing literature. This increasing interest for the theory has, however, been accompanied by a series of misconceptions and untested research assumptions, which we address in the second and third sections of the paper, concluding with a final section suggesting a future research agenda. Our aim is to help those interested in knowing more about identity fusion or about the causal mechanisms that lead individuals to risk their life and personal well‐being for a group discarding common misconceptions as well as formulating more precise and nuanced hypotheses for future research.
The Kinetic of Dissolution of Irradiated UO2 Fuel Under Oxidising Conditions in Flow Experiments
Authors: Cobos J. , Serrano J. A. , Glatz J. P. , Sätmark-Christiansen B. , de Pablo J.
Published: April 2020

These leaching experiments report the effects of four important parameters (redox potential, pH, carbonate concentration and temperature) on the dissolution kinetics of the spent fuel matrix phase. The kinetic of dissolution of irradiated UO2 fuel has been studied in deionized water and synthetic granite groundwater under oxidising conditions at room temperature.
Characterisations and Measurements for Free Release: An Overview of the Studsvik Experiences
Authors: Lindberg Maria , Johnsson Börje
Published: April 2020

The Studsvik site was originally a research facility with many different activities going on. During the years some of the work was ended and the buildings and facilities were free released and some of them torn down.

Three research reactors, one in Stockholm and two in Studsvik, have been decommissioned and their sites have been released for unrestricted use. The waste produced was included in the Studsvik waste management system.

There are today ongoing decommissioning projects in Studsvik. One is the dismantling and free release of the old Active Central Laboratory, ACL, together with its ventilation building, ACF, another project is the decommissioning of the old evaporator facility.

A recently completed project is the decommissioning of the Van de Graaff accelerator building in Studsvik. The Van de Graaff accelerator was in use from 1962 to 1989. During 1990–1997 work was performed in the building with the aim to clean-up the building and to radiologically map the building including sampling and decontamination for free release. In 1998 a permit for decommissioning of the free released building was given from SSI and during 1999 the building itself was demolished.

Free release of metals have been carried out at Studsvik since 1987 and up to date 5700 tonnes have been melted of which 5000 tonnes have been free released. The aim of melting low-level scrap metals from the nuclear industry is to safely determine the radioactive content of the metals before the material is released for unrestricted reuse. Melting services are performed as a part of the decommissioning of the nuclear power plant Würgassen in Germany.

Decontamination for decommissioning, melting and free release of the material has been performed on two steam generators from the shutdown Ågesta PHWR. The project was performed in 1992–93 and has been reported earlier.

Studsvik has worked with decommissioning and free release since the 1980’ies. This paper gives some examples on different projects performed during these years. The paper also describes the procedures on how to release both buildings and material from regulatory control as well as pre-treatment method introduced in order to minimise the waste needed to be put into final storage.
Radiological Characterization of Steel Scrap Recycling by Melting
Authors: Quade Ulrich
Published: April 2020

Recycling of slightly radioactively contaminated steel scrap from nuclear installations to waste containers, shieldings or any other components for the nuclear cycle is practice in Germany since the early 90ies.

To qualify the process, characterization of the radiological inventories in metal, slag and filter dust as well as metallurgical analysis is necessary. Therefore samples from the melt, slag and filter dust are taken to be analyzed by gammaspectroscopy. Alpha and beta emitting radionuclide inventories are calculated based on the typical nuclide ratio of the nuclear facility where the scrap results from. Activity distribution factors for each radio element are empirical values based on the melting of about 10,000 t of steel scrap with various nuclide ratios. High decontamination of the metal can be achieved for uranium, thorium, plutonium, cesium and strontium, which allows free release of the metal in most cases. For Co60 — the main radionuclide in reactor scrap — the decontamination by melting is limited and in most cases the strong criteria for free release can not be yielded. Such metal can be used for manufacturing cast iron components like containers or shieldings.

To manage the expected large amount of metallic waste resulting from the decommissioning of nuclear facilities recycling is well developed and accepted in Germany. By the high cost of intermediate and final storage of nuclear waste recycling is a very economical alternative (3, 4).
Treatment of Low Radioactive Combustible Solid Wastes at Incineration Facility of Tokai Reprocessing Plant
Authors: Nakajima Masayoshi , Koshino Katsuhiko , Akutsu Shigeru , Nakanishi Masahiro
Published: April 2020

Our Incineration Facility (IF) of second generation of Tokai Reprocessing Plant (TRP) has started operation in April 1992. About 530 tons of low radioactive combustible solid waste has been treated in IF until the end of 2000. This paper describes the outline of incineration system in IF and reports the operational experience.
Analysis of Waste Arisings From the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
Authors: Gerchikov Mark Y. , Mark L. , Dutton C. , Kennett Elizabeth J. , Bugai Dmitry A. , Proskura Nikolay I.
Published: April 2020

The paper reviews the findings of a recent international study to characterise the waste arising from the decommissioning of dumps in the Industrial Zone of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and the Exclusion Zone. Studied sites included the Industrial Zone outside the Sarcophagus, three engineered disposal sites (the so-called PZRO), non-engineered near surface trench dumps (PVLRO), contaminated soil and sites of ‘unauthorised’ disposal within the Exclusion Zone.

The paper summarises the inventory of wastes, the management options, which have been considered for various dumps, and the resulting estimates of the volumes of waste streams, as well as the approach that was used in the decision-making process.
Latest Developments About Spent Fuel Management in Belgium
Authors: De Valkeneer Michel , Detilleux Michel , Nuyt Guy , Fabry Jean-Pierre , Demazy Guy , Janssen Luc
Published: April 2020

In Belgium 57% of the electricity is presently generated by 7 nuclear units of the PWR type located in Doel and Tihange. Their total output amounts to 5632 MWe. Part of the spent fuel unloaded from the first three units has been sent till 2000 for reprocessing in the Cogema facility at La Hague. As the reprocessing of the spent fuel produced by the last four units is not covered by the contracts concluded with Cogema, Synatom, the Belgian utilities’ subsidiary in charge of the front- and back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle for all PWR reactors in Belgium, decided to study the possible solutions for a temporary storage of this spent fuel.

End of 1993, the Belgian government decided that reprocessing (closed cycle) and direct disposal (open cycle) of spent fuel had to be considered as equal options in the back-end policy for nuclear fuel in Belgium. The resolution further allowed continued execution of a running reprocessing contract (from 1978) and use of the corresponding Pu for MOX in Belgian NPP’s, but requested a reprocessing contract concluded in 1990 (for reprocessing services after 2000) not to be executed during a five-year period. During this period priority was to be given to studies on the once-through cycle as an option for spent fuel management. Figure 1 is a chart showing the two alternatives for the spent fuel cycle in Belgium.

In this context, Synatom entrusted Belgatom to develop a dedicated flask (called “bottle”) for direct disposal of spent fuel, to perform a design study of an appropriate encapsulation process and to prepare a preliminary feasibility study of a complete spent fuel conditioning plant. Meanwhile preparation works were made for the construction of an interim storage facility on both NPP sites of Doel and Tihange in order to meet increasing storage capacity needs.

For selecting the type of interim storage facility, Belgatom performed a technical-economical analysis. Considerations of design and safety criteria as well as flexibility, reversibility, technical constraints, global economical aspects and construction time led to adopt dry storage with dual purpose casks (in operation since end 1995) for the Doel site and wet storage in a modular pool for the Tihange site (in operation since 1997).

In parallel, ONRAF/NIRAS, the Belgian Agency for the management of radioactive waste and enriched fissile materials and the Belgian nuclear research centre, SCK•CEN, conduct underground investigations in view of geological disposal. The paper describes the methodology that Belgatom has developed to provide the utilities with appropriate solutions (reracking, dry storage in casks, wet storage in ponds, etc.) and how Belgatom demonstrated also the feasibility of spent fuel conditioning with a view to direct disposal in clay layers.

The spent fuel storage facilities in operation in Belgium, designed and built by Belgatom, are then briefly presented.
Classification, Treatment and Storage of Low Specific Activity Radioactive Waste From the Petroleum Industry
Authors: Ramsøy Tore , Strålberg Elisabeth , Varskog Per
Published: April 2020

Low specific activity deposits containing 226Ra, 228Ra and their daughter isotopes is a well-known problem in the petroleum industry. It is estimated that installations in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea will generate from 50 to 75 tons of scale and sludge annually.

A simple method for on-site classification of LSA scale has been developed. Classification of the sludge from the Brent Spar revealed that only a small fraction of the total amount of sludge exceeded the exemption level. Sludge classified to be below the free classification limit was incinerated with surveillance of activity levels in the ash and effluents.
Separated Plutonium: Threats and Prospects
Authors: Macfarlane Allison M.
Published: April 2020

Nuclear weapons reductions have resulted in 34 metric tons of declared excess weapons-grade plutonium in both the United States and Russia. To deal with this material both countries recently signed an agreement to disposition 68 metric tons of weapons-grade plutonium. Stocks of separated plutonium have been growing in the European, Russian, and Japanese nuclear energy complexes due to the failure of the breeder reactor, the high cost of using the material as mixed oxide (MOX) fuel, and political opposition to use of the material. The total stock of separated civilian reactor-grade plutonium is 200 metric tons. Not only does separated plutonium pose a threat to international security, but also over the long run it poses a hazard to the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to select a disposition method that is both proliferation resistant and will perform well over the millennia in a repository.
Experience of Glass Melter Operation in Tokai Vitrification Facility
Authors: Nakayama Jiro , Yoshioka Masahiro
Published: April 2020

Tokai Vitrification Facility (TVF) is the first plant in Japan to immobilize the High-Level Liquid Waste (HLLW) transferred from Tokai Reprocessing Plant (TRP) to the borosilicate glass.

Two problems happened through the plant operation, and the investigations to solve them are being carried on. One is the deposit that is caused by the cohesion of the dust inside the air-film cooler (a type of the exhaust pipe) of the glass melter and the other is the accumulation of noble metal elements in the HLLW on the melter bottom. The countermeasure for the former is the water injection system and for the latter is the reform of the melter bottom structure.
Study on Reduction of Liquid Waste From Reprocessing Plant by Electrolysis Process
Authors: Shibuya M. , Suzuki Y. , Shimizu H. , Inoue M. , Kaneki H. , Moriya N. , Ochi E. , Aoyagi H.
Published: April 2020

The reduction of radioactive waste volume is an important issue for the management of the nuclear fuel cycle. The purpose of this study is to create a technique to drastically reduce low-level liquid waste generated by a spent fuel reprocessing plant employing PUREX technology.

In the PUREX plant, NOx gas is used as an oxidizing reagent for adjustment of the Pu valence in the Pu purification stage. The spent NOx gas is recovered as nitric acid and a certain amount of recovered nitric acid becomes low-level waste (LLW). As NOx gas is produced by the chemical reaction of nitric acid and sodium nitrite, a considerable quantity of non-radioactive sodium nitrate solution is discharged. From the standpoint of the impact on the environment, this discharge must be reduced.

The objective of this research is to develop an electrolysis process by which NOx gas is directly produced from recovered nitric acid. Using this technology, the low-level sodium nitrate waste can be reduced and the nonradioactive sodium nitrate waste from the present NOx production process can be entirely eliminated.

The study was performed in the following two steps:

Phase 1: Fundamental research;

Phase 2: Engineering study.

Fundamental research: A study on the conditions of nitric acid decomposition by electrolysis was performed. The composition of NO and NO2 and its quantity are determined by electrolyte concentration, cathode material and current density. Catholyte reduced electrochemically is in a state of chemical equilibrium expressed by NO, NO2 (N2O4), HNO2, HNO3 and H2O. Nitric acid concentration, temperature and partial pressure of NOx are important process parameters since NOx generation current efficiency and NOx gas composition are dependent on a chemical equilibrium.

Engineering study: The pilot plant was designed and constructed. The process configuration of the pilot plant is the same as that of the anticipated actual plant and its NOx generation capacity is one eighth of the actual plant. The plant mainly consists of electrolysis unit, NOx compression and storage unit, sodium nitrite oxidation unit, nitric acid distillation unit, and NOx recovery and off-gas treatment unit. NOx gas and HNO2 are generated as a result of nitric acid reduction in the electrolysis unit. NOx gas is transported under negative pressure to the compression/storage unit by a compressor and is stored in tanks under high pressure. After adjustment of gas composition by O2 supply, NOx gas is fed to the user process in the case of an actual plant. In the pilot test plant, NOx gas is transported to the nitric acid recovery step, in which NOx gas is recovered as nitric acid and reused in the pilot plant.

As a result of operation of the pilot plant, the process performance, equipment performance, and long-term operation stability were proven. It was confirmed through the pilot plant operation that this technology was immediately applicable to a PUREX reprocessing plant.
Spinel Settling in HLW Melters
Authors: Matyáš Josef , Kloužek Jaroslav , Němec Lubomír , Trochta Miroslav
Published: April 2020

The efficiency of high-level waste (HLW) melters is limited by spinel settling and accumulation on the melter bottom if the waste loading is increased above a certain limit at which spinel crystallizes from the melt. Spinel accumulation interferes with melter operation and shortens melter lifetime. The mathematical modeling of spinel settling in a HLW melter was applied to define the critical level of spinel deposition during the lifetime of the melter and the corresponding increase in waste loading.

In this study, spinel settled on the bottom, slant melter walls, and in the output pipe with a linear growth of spinel-sludge thickness after its concentration stabilized inside the melter. The calculations provided a higher concentration of spinel crystals in the melter regions where the temperature was lower then the liquidus temperature, i.e., T<TL. The effects of the following parameters on sludge-layer thickness were examined: 1) the impact of input concentration of spinel crystals of the same size, 2) the impact of different input size of spinel crystals of the same concentration entering from cold cap (melting batch on the melt surface), and 3) the influence of the average temperature (Tavg) inside of the melting space. The calculations showed that higher a concentration and bigger crystals caused thicker sludge layers in the melter, either because of a higher settling density of crystals or because of their higher settling rate. The nucleation of spinel crystals plays a more important role with decreasing of average temperature inside of the melter, and the thicker layer was formed at lower average temperatures.
Immobilization of Am-241, Formed Under Plutonium Metal Conversion, Into Monazite-Type Ceramics
Authors: Aloy A. S. , Kovarskaya E. N. , Koltsova T. I. , Samoylov S. E. , Rovnyi S. I. , Medvedev G. M. , Jardine L. J.
Published: April 2020

Lanthanum orthophosphate with the monazite structure was proposed on examinations as a suitable matrix for immobilization of future americium-containing liquid wastes, which could be formed in conversion of metallic plutonium into oxide at PA “Mayak.”

Specimens of monazite non-active ceramics were fabricated from LaPO4 powders obtained using a thin-film evaporator by either hot-pressing or cold-pressing and sintering at 900–1300 °C. According to electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which were used for characterization of produced samples, all specimens did not contain any phase other than the monoclinic monazite phase. Ceramics having the specific activity of Am-241 2.13×107 Bq/g were prepared by only cold-pressing with subsequent sintering at 1300°C during 1 hour. The normalized leach rates of lanthanum and americium in distilled water at 90°C were less than 1.2×10−4 and 2.3 10−4 g/m2×day, respectively.
Characterizing the distinctive acoustic cues of Mandarin tones
Authors: Tupper Paul , Leung Keith , Wang Yue , Jongman Allard , Sereno Joan A.
Published: April 2020

This study aims to characterize distinctive acoustic features of Mandarin tones based on a corpus of 1025 monosyllabic words produced by 21 native Mandarin speakers. For each tone, 22 acoustic cues were extracted. Besides standard F0, duration, and intensity measures, further cues were determined by fitting two mathematical functions to the pitch contours. The first function is a parabola, which gives three parameters: a mean F0, an F0 slope, and an F0 second derivative. The second is a broken-line function, which models the contour as a continuous curve consisting of two lines with a single breakpoint. Cohen's d, sparse Principal Component Analysis, and other statistical measures are used to identify which of the cues, and which combinations of the cues, are important for distinguishing each tone from each other among all the speakers. Although the specific cues that best characterize the tone contours depend on the particular tone and the statistical measure used, this paper shows that the three cues obtained by fitting a parabola to the tone contour are broadly effective. This research suggests using these three cues as a canonical choice for defining tone characteristics.
On the three-dimensional sound fields from a moving monopole source above a non-locally reacting ground
Authors: Li Kai Ming , Wang Yiming
Published: April 2020

This study derives an accurate analytic solution for sound fields due to a moving point monopole source above a non-locally reacting ground. Based on the property of the invariant phase function, the acoustic pressure and normal particle velocity are matched across the air/ground interface in the frequency–wave number domain. Expressions for the integral form of the sound fields in three different frames are used to analyze and compare the original physical frame in the reception time geometry, the Lorentz frame, and the emission time frame. For ease of interpretation, the final form of the asymptotic solution is expressed in the geometry of the emission time frame. The accuracy of the asymptotic solution is validated using the direct numerical integration technique. The three-dimensional point source solution derived from the current study is compared with that of the two-dimensional line source solution. Explicit comparisons of the cylindrical and spherical wave reflection coefficients are available, allowing a better understanding of the impact of the ground wave term in the vicinity of a non-locally reflecting plane. Finally, contour plots are presented that demonstrate the need to employ the asymptotic formula for the non-locally reacting ground instead of approximating it with a locally reacting property.
Deciphering atomistic mechanisms of the gas-solid interfacial reaction during alloy oxidation
Authors: Luo Langli , Li Liang , Schreiber Daniel K. , He Yang , Baer Donald R. , Bruemmer Stephen M. , Wang Chongmin
Published: April 2020

Distinct atomic-scale surface oxidation processes of alloy in O
2
and water vapor have been revealed by environmental TEM.
Kimberlite genesis from a common carbonate-rich primary melt modified by lithospheric mantle assimilation
Authors: Giuliani Andrea , Pearson D. Graham , Soltys Ashton , Dalton Hayden , Phillips David , Foley Stephen F. , Lim Emilie , Goemann Karsten , Griffin William L. , Mitchell Roger H.
Published: April 2020

Diamond-bearing kimberlites were born from similar melts in the deep Earth and variably modified during ascent.
Graphene reinforced carbon fibers
Authors: Gao Zan , Zhu Jiadeng , Rajabpour Siavash , Joshi Kaushik , Kowalik Małgorzata , Croom Brendan , Schwab Yosyp , Zhang Liwen , Bumgardner Clifton , Brown Kenneth R. , Burden Diana , Klett James William , van Duin Adri C. T. , Zhigilei Leonid V. , Li Xiaodong
Published: April 2020

Graphene can substantially enhance the mechanical properties of PAN-derived carbon fibers by minimizing porosity and defects.
Hollow metal halide perovskite nanocrystals with efficient blue emissions
Authors: Worku Michael , Tian Yu , Zhou Chenkun , Lin Haoran , Chaaban Maya , Xu Liang-jin , He Qingquan , Beery Drake , Zhou Yan , Lin Xinsong , Su Yi-feng , Xin Yan , Ma Biwu
Published: April 2020

A hollow nanostructure enables color tuning of metal halide perovskites with efficient blue emissions from cesium lead bromide.
Switchable giant nonreciprocal frequency shift of propagating spin waves in synthetic antiferromagnets
Authors: Ishibashi Mio , Shiota Yoichi , Li Tian , Funada Shinsaku , Moriyama Takahiro , Ono Teruo
Published: April 2020

We report the giant nonreciprocity and the electrical switching of propagating spin waves in synthetic antiferromagnets.
Rapid heating induced ultrahigh stability of nanograined copper
Authors: Li X.Y. , Zhou X. , Lu K.
Published: April 2020

Rapid heating can trigger boundary relaxation of copper nanograins, making them more stable than the deformed coarse grains.
Wireless smart contact lens for diabetic diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Keum Do Hee , Kim Su-Kyoung , Koo Jahyun , Lee Geon-Hui , Jeon Cheonhoo , Mok Jee Won , Mun Beom Ho , Lee Keon Jae , Kamrani Ehsan , Joo Choun-Ki , Shin Sangbaie , Sim Jae-Yoon , Myung David , Yun Seok Hyun , Bao Zhenan , Hahn Sei Kwang
Published: April 2020

We demonstrate smart contact lenses for noninvasive and continuous diabetic diagnosis and diabetic retinopathy therapy.
Experimentally Engineered Mutations in a Ubiquitin Hydrolase, UBP-1, Modulate
In Vivo
Susceptibility to Artemisinin and Chloroquine in Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Simwela Nelson V. , Hughes Katie R. , Roberts A. Brett , Rennie Michael T. , Barrett Michael P. , Waters Andrew P.
Published: April 2020

As resistance to artemisinins (current frontline drugs in malaria treatment) emerges in Southeast Asia, there is an urgent need to identify the genetic determinants and understand the molecular mechanisms underpinning such resistance. Such insights could lead to prospective interventions to contain resistance and prevent the eventual spread to other regions where malaria is endemic. Reduced susceptibility to artemisinin in Southeast Asia has been primarily linked to mutations in the
Plasmodium falciparum
Kelch-13 gene, which is currently widely recognized as a molecular marker of artemisinin resistance.
The Supervisory Role of Life Science Research Faculty: The Missing Link to Diversifying the Academic Workforce?
Authors: Clement Laurence , Leung Karen Nicole , Lewis James Bennett , Saul Naledi Marie
Published: April 2020

In addition to developing innovative research programs, life science research faculty at research-intensive institutions are tasked with providing career mentoring and scientific training to new generations of scientists, including postgraduate, graduate, and undergraduate students. In this essay, we argue for a redefinition of mentoring in laboratory research, to thoroughly distinguish three essential roles played by research faculty relative to their trainees: advisor, educator, and supervisor. In particular, we pay attention to the often unacknowledged and misunderstood role of a faculty member as a supervisor and discuss the impact of neglecting supervisory best practices on trainees, on the diversity of the academic pipeline, and on the research enterprise. We also provide actionable frameworks for research mentors who wish to use inclusive supervisory and pedagogical practices in their laboratory. Finally, we call for more research around the supervisory role of research faculty and its impact on trainees, particularly community college students, in order to help broaden the participation of underrepresented students in STEM fields.
Supplemental material: The Confusion Range, west-central Utah: Fold-thrust deformation and a western Utah thrust belt in the Sevier hinterland
Authors: Greene David C.
Published: April 2020

Geosphere, February 2014, v. 10, p. 148-169, doi:10.1130/GES00972.1, Plate 5 - Cross section of the southern Confusion Range, D–D′.
Rare case of basilar artery aneurysm in a young child
Authors: Mallett Peter , O'Reilly Sean Thomas , Rennie Ian , Shanmuganathan Mano , Thompson Andrew James
Published: April 2020

A previously well, 14-month-old girl presented with acute decreased level of consciousness. There was no history of trauma, systemic upset or significant family history. Blood pressure was within normal range and no focal neurological deficit was elicited on examination. Neuroimaging revealed a subarachnoid haemorrhage secondary to a basilar tip aneurysm. Patient underwent endovascular embolisation with good clinical outcome. Follow-up MRI revealed anterior circulation vasospasm, and although clinically asymptomatic, she was treated with a calcium channel antagonist. She was later discharged home with no neurological deficit. Follow-up MRI 3 months following presentation suggested recurrent formation of the aneurysmal sac. The patient then underwent elective endovascular repair 2 months later and was discharged home on antiplatelet therapy with planned close outpatient clinical and radiological surveillance.