bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sodium Fire Analysis Using a Sodium Chemistry Package in MELCOR
Authors: Aoyagi Mitsuhiro , Uchibori Akihiro , Takata Takahi , Louie David L. Y. , Clark Andrew J. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The Sodium Chemistry (NAC) package in MELCOR has been developed to enhance application to sodium cooled fast reactors. The models in the NAC package have been assessed through benchmark analyses. The F7-1 pool fire experimental analysis is conducted within the framework of the U.S.–Japan collaboration; Civil Nuclear Energy Research and Development Working Group. This study assesses the capability of the pool fire model in MELCOR and provides recommendations for future model improvements because the physics of sodium pool fire are complex. Based on the preliminary results, analytical conditions, such as heat transfer on the floor catch pan are modified. The current MELCOR analysis yields lower values than the experimental data in pool combustion rate and pool, catch pan, and gas temperature during early time. The current treatment of heat transfer for the catch pan is the primary cause of the difference in the results from the experimental data. After sodium discharge stopping, the pool combustion rate and temperature become higher than experimental data. This is caused by absence of a model for pool fire suppression due to the oxide layer buildup on the pool surface. Based on these results, recommendations for future works are needed, such as heat transfer modification in terms of the catch pan and consideration of the effects of the oxide layer for both the MELCOR input model and pool physic.
Heating Impact on Corrosion Mechanism of Carbon Steel Surrounded by Bentonite
Authors: Uyama Masao , Saito Hiroyuki , Iioka Tomoya 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The long-term safety of geological disposal of radioactive waste is studied through several simulations. Before underground disposal, radioactive waste is stored for 30 to 50 years at facilities near nuclear power plants to cool it down to around 100 degrees. It is then placed in steel canisters surrounded by artificial materials such as bentonite and concrete.
To determine the long-term safety and stability of this disposal method, we’ve studied the corrosion rate of the steel canisters under different conditions using electro-chemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). This paper describes the corrosion of the carbon steel and elucidates the corroded condition using EIS measurement. EIS was adopted to estimate the corrosion condition from the impedance frequency characteristic.
In our experiment, samples of bentonite and carbon steel were compacted to Kunigel V1 of 1.37Mg/m3 dry density with several different water contents, and SM400 as a low carbon steel inside compacted bentonite. An electric heater was set inside the steel canister to maintain the temperature at 100 degrees Celsius. This model was made to a scale of around 1/120 as a current concept of a vertical disposal plan and reproduced the enclosed situation after underground emplacement of the radioactive waste. During heating, we conducted EIS measurements and set this data result as an equivalent circuit.
We noted some different trends of impedance frequency characteristic depending on the bentonite’s water content and the heating time. From this result, we estimated the corrosion condition to analyze the corrosion products.
Incorporating FLEX Strategies in Multi-Unit Probabilistic Risk Assessment
Authors: Zhang Sai , Ma Zhegang 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The catastrophic Fukushima nuclear accident reminded the nuclear community about potential extreme accident scenarios, including those involving multiple reactor units on the same site. In response to the Fukushima accident, the nuclear power industry developed and implemented a series of strategies, including Diverse and Flexible Coping Strategies (FLEX), to enhance the capacities of nuclear power plants (NPPs) to cope with extreme accidents. This study examines the impact of FLEX strategies on the overall risk from all reactor units located at the same NPP site, including risks from accidents involving either a single unit or multiple units. The fundamental, methodological element of this study is Multi-Unit Probabilistic Risk Assessment (MUPRA) requiring a shift in Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) from a one-reactor-at-a-time mindset to a consideration of all reactors sharing a site. An integrated modeling approach for multi-unit event sequence development is leveraged to develop the MUPRA model and address intra-unit and inter-unit dependencies. Systems Analysis Programs for Hands-on Integrated Reliability Evaluations (SAPHIRE), a PRA software developed and maintained by Idaho National Laboratory for the United States (U.S.) Nuclear Regulatory Commission, serves as the platform for MUPRA modeling. This study selects loss of offsite power (LOOP) as a representative initiating event potentially occurring on a generic two-unit NPP site and impacting both reactor units. First, an MUPRA model, including multi-unit event trees, is developed to obtain single-unit and multi-unit accident scenarios. Next, different FLEX strategies are assumed; for example, whether FLEX equipment for multiple units can be used in a cross-connected manner. Lastly, the effectiveness of each postulated FLEX strategy is evaluated by incorporating the corresponding FLEX equipment and deployment logic into the MUPRA model.
In-Vessel Core Melt Retention Strategy Applied for the Rivne VVER-440 Unit
Authors: Dubyk Yaroslav , Antonchenko Vitalii 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
In-Vessel Core Melt Retention (IVMR) strategy via external vessel cooling is widely applied for reactors of relatively low power like VVER-440. In this study, IVMR strategy was applied for Rivne-1, 2 units to prove the pressure vessel integrity. Based on initial data like heat flux for internal wall and external wall temperature, a series of calculations for different scenarios were performed. These calculations include non-elastic material properties: creep and plasticity. As the result, the wall ablation, radial displacements, stress and strains were obtained. To prove pressure vessel integrity four criterions have been checked. The first one is obvious — remaining wall thickness, to prove that that RPV won’t be melted right through. The second one is visco-plastic collapse — lack of monotonous increase in deformations, in case of FEM solution result convergence can be interpreted as resist against such failure. The third — sustainable external cooling, thus the gap between RPV (due to radial elongation) and thermal protection shield must be 10 mm at least. The last one is brittle strength, this calculation was performed on a separate model.
Are Genome-Wide Association Study Identified Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms Associated With Sprint Athletic Status? A Replication Study With 3 Different Cohorts
Authors: Guilherme João Paulo Limongi França , Semenova Ekaterina A. , Zempo Hirofumi , Martins Gabriel L. , Lancha Junior Antonio H. , Miyamoto-Mikami Eri , Kumagai Hiroshi , Tobina Takuro , Shiose Keisuke , Kakigi Ryo , Tsuzuki Takamasa , Ichinoseki-Sekine Noriko , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Naito Hisashi , Borisov Oleg V. , Kostryukova Elena S. , Kulemin Nikolay A. , Larin Andrey K. , Generozov Edward V. , Fuku Noriyuki , Ahmetov Ildus I. 
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To replicate previous genome-wide association study identified sprint-related polymorphisms in 3 different cohorts of top-level sprinters and to further validate the obtained results in functional studies. Methods: A total of 240 Japanese, 290 Russians, and 593 Brazilians were evaluated in a case-control approach. Of these, 267 were top-level sprint/power athletes. In addition, the relationship between selected polymorphisms and muscle fiber composition was evaluated in 203 Japanese and 287 Finnish individuals. Results: The G allele of the rs3213537 polymorphism was overrepresented in Japanese (odds ratio [OR]: 2.07, P = .024) and Russian (OR: 1.93, P = .027) sprinters compared with endurance athletes and was associated with an increased proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers in Japanese (P = .02) and Finnish (P = .041) individuals. A meta-analysis of the data from 4 athlete cohorts confirmed that the presence of the G/G genotype rather than the G/A+A/A genotypes increased the OR of being a sprinter compared with controls (OR: 1.49, P = .01), endurance athletes (OR: 1.79, P = .001), or controls + endurance athletes (OR: 1.58, P = .002). Furthermore, male sprinters with the G/G genotype were found to have significantly faster personal times in the 100-m dash than those with G/A+A/A genotypes (10.50 [0.26] vs 10.76 [0.31], P = .014). Conclusion: The rs3213537 polymorphism found in the CPNE5 gene was identified as a highly replicable variant associated with sprinting ability and the increased proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers, in which the homozygous genotype for the major allele (ie, the G/G genotype) is preferable for performance.
Where to Place Which Sensor to Measure Sedentary Behavior? A Method Development and Comparison Among Various Sensor Placements and Signal Types
Authors: Kuster Roman P. , Baumgartner Daniel , Hagströmer Maria , Grooten Wilhelmus J.A. 
Published: October 2020

Background: Sedentary behavior (SB) is associated with several chronic diseases and office workers especially are at increased risk. SB is defined by a sitting or reclined body posture with an energy expenditure of ≤1.5 metabolic equivalents. However, current objective methods to measure SB are not consistent with its definition. There is no consensus on which sensor placement and type should be used. Aim: To compare the accuracy of newly developed artificial intelligence models for 15 sensor placements in combination with four signal types (accelerometer only/plus gyroscope and/or magnetometer) to detect posture and physical in-/activity during desk-based activities. Method: Signal features for the model development were extracted from sensor raw data of 30 office workers performing 10 desk-based tasks, each lasting 5 min. Direct observation (posture) and indirect calorimetry (in-/activity) served as the reference criteria. The best classification model for each sensor was identified and compared among the sensor placements, both using Friedman and post hoc Wilcoxon tests (p ≤ .05). Results: Posture was most accurately measured with a lower body sensor, while in-/activity was most accurately measured with an upper body or waist sensor. The inclusion of additional signal types improved the posture classification for some placements, while the acceleration signal already contained the relevant signal information for the in-/activity classification. Overall, the thigh accelerometer most accurately classified desk-based SB. Conclusion: This study favors, in line with previous work, the measurement of SB with a thigh-worn accelerometer and adds the information that this sensor is also accurate in measuring physical in-/activity while sitting and standing.
Relationship Between Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity at Work and Cognition and Mood
Authors: Carter Sophie E. , Draijer Richard , Thompson Andrew , Thijssen Dick H.J. , Hopkins Nicola D. 
Published: October 2020

Background: Sedentary behavior is negatively associated with cognition and mood. Adults often engage in high levels of sedentary behavior at work through sitting, which may impact productivity. Consequently, replacing sitting with standing and physical activity (PA) is recommended. However, the associations between sitting, standing, and PA at work and cognition and mood are unknown; this study, therefore, aimed to explore these relationships. Methods: A total of 75 healthy full-time workers (33 male, mean [SD]; 33.6 [10.4] y, 38 [7] work hr/wk) wore sedentary behavior (activPAL) and PA (SenseWear Pro) monitors for 7 days and recorded their work hours. The day after this monitoring period, participants completed cognitive tests (executive function, attention, and working memory) and mood questionnaires (affect, alert, content, and calm). Multiple linear regression analyses examined the associations between cognition and mood and the time spent sitting, standing, and in each PA intensity during work hours, weekday leisure time, and weekends. Results: Workplace sitting, standing, or PA were not significantly associated with cognition or mood (P > .05). No significant associations were observed between these variables during weekday leisure time or weekends (P > .05). Conclusions: In a cohort of healthy workers, workplace sitting, standing, and PA are not associated with cognition or mood. Further research in this population is needed, examining the influence of workplace behaviors on cognition and mood, because this will contribute to evidence-based workplace guidelines to increase productivity.
Aflibercept ameliorates retinal pericyte loss and restores perfusion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Seo Eoi Jong , Choi Jeong A , Koh Jae-Young , Yoon Young Hee 
Published: October 2020

IntroductionAnti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents are used worldwide for advanced-stage diabetic retinopathy (DR). In contrast, apart from blood glucose control, there are no specific treatments that can limit the progression of early-stage DR that starts with pericyte loss and the destruction of the blood–retinal barrier. Here, we examined the efficacy of aflibercept, a potent anti-VEGF agent, against early-DR pathologies in a murine model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DR.Research design and methodsSTZ was intraperitoneally administered in 8-week-old C57BL/6N male mice. After 4 weeks, the mice were divided into aflibercept-treated and saline-treated groups. Eight weeks after the STZ injection, vascular permeability/leakage was measured with fluorescein angiography in live mice. At 4, 6, and 8 weeks after the STZ injection, the eyes were enucleated, flat-mounted, and stained for platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β to assess pericyte abundance, CD45 to assess leukocyte recruitment, and fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran to assess perfusion. VEGF levels were quantified in each group. The effects of aflibercept on pericyte number, perfusion status, and leukocyte recruitment/accumulation on mice with diabetes retina were evaluated.ResultsOur murine model successfully replicated the salient pathologies of DR such as pericytes loss, hyperpermeability, and perfusion blockage. Interestingly, numerous leukocytes and leukocyte clumps were found in diabetic retinal capillaries, especially in the non-perfused border area of the retina, suggesting a possible mechanism for non-perfusion and related pericyte damage. Treatment with aflibercept in mice with diabetes inhibited the upregulation of VEGF and the associated adhesion molecules while reducing the defects in perfusion. Aflibercept also attenuated pericyte loss in the diabetic retina.ConclusionVEGF inhibition through aflibercept treatment decreased leukocyte recruitment and aggregation, perfusion blockage, retinal hypoperfusion, and hyperpermeability in mice with diabetes and ultimately attenuated pericyte loss. Our findings suggest that anti-VEGF strategies may prove useful as possible therapies for limiting the progression of early-stage DR.
Impaired glucose regulation, depressive symptoms, and health-related quality of life
Authors: Selenius Jannica S , Wasenius Niko S , Kautiainen Hannu , Salonen Minna , von Bonsdorff Mikaela , Eriksson Johan G 
Published: October 2020

IntroductionThis study aims to investigate whether the associations between impaired glucose regulation and health-related quality of life are modified by severity or type of depressive symptoms.Research design and methodsFor this cross-sectional study, we included 1939 individuals (mean age 61.5 years) from the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study. Between 2001 and 2004, a standard 2-hour 75 g oral glucose tolerance test was applied to define normoglycemia, pre-diabetes, and newly diagnosed diabetes. Information on previously diagnosed diabetes was collected from national registers and questionnaires. Pre-diabetes was defined as having either impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance. The Mental and Physical Component Scores of health-related quality of life were assessed with Short Form-36. Beck’s Depression Inventory was employed to investigate the severity of depressive symptoms and to define minimal (depression score <10), non-melancholic, and melancholic types of depression. We analyzed data with general linear models adjusted for sex, age, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and body mass index.ResultsGlucose regulation subgroups, especially previously known diabetes, were associated with lower Physical Component Score (p=0.001) and higher depression score (p=0.015), but not with the Mental Component Score (p=0.189). Non-melancholic depression was associated with lower Physical and Mental Component Scores compared with those with depression score <10 and melancholic depression (p<0.001), independently of glucose regulation status (p for glucose regulation status by depression type interaction >0.54).ConclusionsNon-melancholic type of depression and previously known diabetes are independently associated with lower health-related quality of life. This should be appraised in long-term treatment of diabetes and when treating non-melancholic depressive symptoms to maintain a higher health-related quality of life.
Prognostic models for predicting in-hospital paediatric mortality in resource-limited countries: a systematic review
Authors: Ogero Morris , Sarguta Rachel Jelagat , Malla Lucas , Aluvaala Jalemba , Agweyu Ambrose , English Mike , Onyango Nelson Owuor , Akech Samuel 
Published: October 2020

ObjectivesTo identify and appraise the methodological rigour of multivariable prognostic models predicting in-hospital paediatric mortality in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs).DesignSystematic review of peer-reviewed journals.Data sourcesMEDLINE, CINAHL, Google Scholar and Web of Science electronic databases since inception to August 2019.Eligibility criteriaWe included model development studies predicting in-hospital paediatric mortality in LMIC.Data extraction and synthesisThis systematic review followed the Checklist for critical Appraisal and data extraction for systematic Reviews of prediction Modelling Studies framework. The risk of bias assessment was conducted using Prediction model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST). No quantitative summary was conducted due to substantial heterogeneity that was observed after assessing the studies included.ResultsOur search strategy identified a total of 4054 unique articles. Among these, 3545 articles were excluded after review of titles and abstracts as they covered non-relevant topics. Full texts of 509 articles were screened for eligibility, of which 15 studies reporting 21 models met the eligibility criteria. Based on the PROBAST tool, risk of bias was assessed in four domains; participant, predictors, outcome and analyses. The domain of statistical analyses was the main area of concern where none of the included models was judged to be of low risk of bias.ConclusionThis review identified 21 models predicting in-hospital paediatric mortality in LMIC. However, most reports characterising these models are of poor quality when judged against recent reporting standards due to a high risk of bias. Future studies should adhere to standardised methodological criteria and progress from identifying new risk scores to validating or adapting existing scores.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42018088599.
Safety of furazolidone-containing regimen in Helicobacter pylori infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ji Chao-ran , Liu Jing , Li Yue-yue , Guo Chuan-guo , Qu Jun-yan , Zhang Yan , Zuo Xiuli 
Published: October 2020

ObjectivesFurazolidone containing regimen is effectivefor Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, but its safetyremains controversial. To assess the safety of furazolidone containing regimenin H. pylori infection.DesignA systematic review and meta-analysis.Data sourcesPubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Scopus databases were systematically searched for eligible randomised controlled trials.Eligibility criteriaStudies comparing furazolidone with non-furazolidone-containing regimen, variable durations or doses of furazolidone were included.Data extraction and synthesisTwo reviewers independently selected studies and extracted data. Primary outcomes were the risk of total adverse events (AEs), serious AEs and severe AEs, expressed as relative risk (RR) with 95% CI. Secondary outcomes contained the incidence of individual adverse symptoms, AE-related treatment discontinuation and compliance.ResultsTwenty-six articles were identified from 2039 searched records, of which 14 studies (n=2540) compared furazolidone with other antibiotics. The eradication rates of furazolidone-containing regimen were higher than those of other antibiotics in both intention-to-treat (RR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.12) and per-protocol analysis (RR 1.05, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.10). Only two serious AEs were reported in furazolidone group (2/1221, 0.16%). No significant increased risk was observed for the incidence of total AEs (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.21) and severe AEs (RR 1.81, 95% CI 0.91 to 3.60). Twelve studies (n=3139) compared different durations of furazolidone, and four studies (n=343) assessed variable doses. Elevated risk of total AEs and severe AEs were only found in a high daily dose of furazolidone rather than prolonged duration. The incidence of AE-related treatment discontinuation and compliance of patients were all similar, irrespective of dose and duration adjustments.ConclusionFurazolidone-containing regimen has a similar risk of AEs and compliance as non-furazolidone-containing regimen. A low daily dose of 200 mg is well-tolerated for 14 day regimen and should be first considered.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42019137247
Benefits finding among Chinese family caregivers of stroke survivors: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Mei Yong-Xia , Lin Beilei , Zhang Weihong , Yang Dong-Bin , Wang Shan-Shan , Zhang Zhen-Xiang , Cheung Daphne Sze Ki 
Published: October 2020

ObjectivesThe caregiving experience includes both caregiver burdens and benefits finding. However, the benefits obtained by family caregivers of stroke survivors in Chinese community dwellings are unknown. The objective of this study was to explore the benefits experienced by family caregivers of stroke survivors in Chinese community dwellings.DesignA qualitative descriptive design was used, fulfilling the consolidated criteria for the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research reporting guidelines. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 family caregivers of stroke survivors. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and analysed. Thematic analysis was performed to analyse the interview transcripts.Setting and participantsHome interviews were conducted with family caregivers of stroke survivors in two communities in Zhengzhou, China.ResultsThe family caregivers of stroke survivors experienced various benefits from caregiving. There were both internal benefits (increases in knowledge and skills, the development of positive attitudes, and the development of a sense of worthiness and achievement) and external benefits (family growth and gains in social support), which interact to create a healthy lifestyle.ConclusionOur findings provide a comprehensive perspective in understanding the benefits perceived by family caregivers of stroke survivors. This study provides insights into interventions focused on identifying benefits finding in six domains that may help reduce negative emotions and promote the mental health of caregivers.