bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of Cooperation for Recycling Vehicle Routing Optimization in Two-Echelon Reverse Logistics Networks
Authors: Wang Yong , Peng Shouguo , Assogba Kevin , Liu Yong , Wang Haizhong , Xu Maozeng , Wang Yinhai
Published: April 2018

The formation of a cooperative alliance is an effective means of approaching the vehicle routing optimization in two-echelon reverse logistics networks. Cooperative mechanisms can contribute to avoiding the inefficient assignment of resources for the recycling logistics operations and reducing long distance transportation. With regard to the relatively low performance of waste collection, this paper proposes a three-phase methodology to properly address the corresponding vehicle routing problem on two echelons. First, a bi-objective programming model is established to minimize the total cost and the number of vehicles considering semitrailers and vehicles sharing. Furthermore, the Clarke–Wright (CW) savings method and the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) are combined to design a hybrid routing optimization heuristic, which is denoted CW_NSGA-II. Routes on the first and second echelons are obtained on the basis of sub-optimal solutions provided by CW algorithm. Compared to other intelligent algorithms, CW_NSGA-II reduces the complexity of the multi-objective solutions search and mostly converges to optimality. The profit generated by cooperation among retail stores and the recycling hub in the reverse logistics network is fairly and reasonably distributed to the participants by applying the Minimum Costs-Remaining Savings (MCRS) method. Finally, an empirical study in Chengdu City, China, reveals the superiority of CW_NSGA over the multi-objective particle swarm optimization and the multi objective genetic algorithms in terms of solutions quality and convergence. Meanwhile, the comparison of MCRS method with the Shapley value model, equal profit method and cost gap allocation proves that MCRS method is more conducive to the stability of the cooperative alliance. In general, the implementation of cooperation in the optimization of the reverse logistics network effectively leads to the sustainable development of urban and sub-urban areas. Through the reasonable reorganization of the entire network, recycling companies can provide more reliable services, contribute to the reduction of environmental pollution, and guarantee significant profits. Thus, this paper provides manufacturing companies, logistics operators and local governments with tools to protect the environment, while still making profits.
Carbon Footprint Estimation Tool for Residential Buildings for Non-Specialized Users: OERCO2 Project
Authors: Solís-Guzmán Jaime , Rivero-Camacho Cristina , Alba-Rodríguez Desirée , Martínez-Rocamora Alejandro
Published: April 2018

Existing tools for environmental certification of buildings are failing in their ability to reach the general public and to create social awareness, since they require not only specialized knowledge regarding construction and energy sources, but also environmental knowledge. In this paper, an open-source online tool for the estimation of the carbon footprint of residential buildings by non-specialized users is presented as a product from the OERCO2 Erasmus + project. The internal calculations, data management and operation of this tool are extensively explained. The ten most common building typologies built in the last decade in Spain are analysed by using the OERCO2 tool, and the order of magnitude of the results is analysed by comparing them to the ranges determined by other authors. The OERCO2 tool proves itself to be reliable, with its results falling within the defined logical value ranges. Moreover, the major simplification of the interface allows non-specialized users to evaluate the sustainability of buildings. Further research is oriented towards its inclusion in other environmental certification tools and in Building Information Modeling (BIM) environments.
Tree-Based Ecosystem Approaches (TBEAs) as Multi-Functional Land Management Strategies—Evidence from Rwanda
Authors: Iiyama Miyuki , Mukuralinda Athanase , Ndayambaje Jean Damascene , Musana Bernard , Ndoli Alain , Mowo Jeremias G. , Garrity Dennis , Ling Stephen , Ruganzu Vicky
Published: April 2018

Densely populated rural areas in the East African Highlands have faced significant intensification challenges under extreme population pressure on their land and ecosystems. Sustainable agricultural intensification, in the context of increasing cropping intensities, is a prerequisite for deliberate land management strategies that deliver multiple ecosystem goods (food, energy, income sources, etc.) and services (especially improving soil conditions) on the same land, as well as system resilience, if adopted at scale. Tree based ecosystem approaches (TBEAs) are among such multi-functional land management strategies. Knowledge on the multi-functionality of TBEAs and on their scaling up, however, remains severely limited due to several methodological challenges. This study aims at offering an analytical perspective to view multi-functional TBEAs as an integral part of sustainable agricultural intensification. The study proposes a conceptual framework to guide the analysis of socio-economic data and applies it to cross-site analysis of TBEAs in extremely densely populated Rwanda. Heterogeneous TBEAs were identified across Rwanda’s different agro-ecological zones to meet locally-specific smallholders’ needs for a set of ecosystem goods and services on the same land. The sustained adoption of TBEAs would be guaranteed if farmers subjectively recognize their compatibility and synergy with sustainable intensification of existing farming systems, supported by favorable institutional conditions.
Accuracy Assessment of Multi-Source Gridded Population Distribution Datasets in China
Authors: Bai Zhongqiang , Wang Juanle , Wang Mingming , Gao Mengxu , Sun Jiulin
Published: April 2018

Population is one of the core elements of sustainable development. Quantifying the estimation accuracy of population spatial distribution has been recognized as a critical and challenging task. This study aims to evaluate the data accuracy of four population datasets in China, including three global gridded population datasets, the Gridded Population of the World (GPW), Global Rural and Urban Mapping Project (GRUMP), and WorldPop project (WorldPop), and a Chinese regional gridded population dataset, the China 1 km Gridded Population (CnPop) dataset. These datasets are assessed using a specific method based on a GIS-linked 2000 census dataset at the township level in China. The results indicate that WorldPop had the highest estimation accuracy, estimating about 60% of the total population. CnPop accurately estimated about half of the total population, showing a good mapping performance. The GPW had an acceptable estimation accuracy in a few plain and basin areas, accounting for about 30% of the total population. Compared to the GPW, GRUMP accurately estimated about 40% of the total population. The relative estimation error analysis discovered the disadvantages of the generation strategies of these datasets. The conclusions are expected to serve as a quality reference for potential dataset users and producers, and promote accuracy assessment for population datasets in other regions and globally.
Sustainable Agriculture in the Arabian/Persian Gulf Region Utilizing Marginal Water Resources: Making the Best of a Bad Situation
Authors: Brown J. Jed , Das Probir , Al-Saidi Mohammad
Published: April 2018

One way to encourage agricultural self-sufficiency in arid regions is to increase the productivity of conventional freshwater agriculture. Another way is to develop and implement novel strategies and technologies that do not deplete scarce freshwater. Here we describe several options for countries in the Gulf region to increase their agricultural production by taking advantage of a lesser used resource—marginal water. Marginal water can be treated sewage effluent, produced oilfield water, brackish groundwater or seawater. We describe how this resource can be used to grow salt-tolerant forage crops, microalgae and aquaculture crops. Policies needed to implement and/or scale-up such practices are also outlined.
The Dark Side of Wars for Talent and Layoffs: Evidence from Korean Firms †
Authors: Cho Hee-jung , Ahn Ji-Young
Published: April 2018

In this study, we examined the effects of layoffs and wars for talent on firms’ performance. The simultaneous use of layoffs and “war-for-talent” practices has become part of the management strategy for adjusting workforce competencies. We suggest that war-for-talent practices decrease organizational performance when laying people off at the same time. Moreover, we argue that investment in employees’ skill development during the same period as layoffs and a war for talent can enhance organizational sustainability in increasing employee commitment, trust and organizational flexibility. Using a longitudinal survey conducted at over 653 Korean firms by a government-sponsored research institution, the results show that war-for-talent practices do not have a significant impact on firms’ performance. Moreover, our findings indicate a negative relationship between war-for-talent practices and financial performance when conducting layoffs and, as expected, a positive effect of the interaction between a war for talent and layoffs on turnover. Lastly, the results indicate a negative effect on organizational performance in firms pursuing a war for talent is mitigated when investments in employee development are continued during periods of layoffs.
Cultural Heritage Conservation and Sustainability Based on Surveying and Modeling: The Case of the 14th Century Building Corral del Carbón (Granada, Spain)
Authors: Reinoso-Gordo Juan Francisco , Rodríguez-Moreno Concepción , Gómez-Blanco Antonio Jesús , León-Robles Carlos
Published: April 2018

Cultural Heritage buildings face major challenges trying to combine a usability function with conservation and restoration obligations. Suitable conservation involves a complex set of activities, some concerned with historical documentation (functionality, construction materials, physical developments, etc.). Other activities require a geometrical description in order to detect pathologies related to walls tilting, displacements or roofs and beams deformation. Here, we propose a methodology that takes into account all those requirements when modeling a key 14th century Cultural Heritage building in Granada (Spain): Corral del Carbón. Known in the Moorish period as “Alhóndiga”, the building was used as an inn and a warehouse for merchandise. We survey the building with the most accurate techniques currently available (scanner laser and photogrammetry). After surveying it, we model the building at different levels of detail taking into account the various phases known to comprise the building. Finally, we propose an HBIM (Heritage Building Information Modeling) for building maintenance and facilitate its sustainability and usability over time.
Effect of Biochar Amendment on Methane Emissions from Paddy Field under Water-Saving Irrigation
Authors: Xiao Yanan , Yang Shihong , Xu Junzeng , Ding Jie , Sun Xiao , Jiang Zewei
Published: April 2018

Biochar has been proposed as a new countermeasure to mitigate climate change because of its potential in inhibiting greenhouse gas emissions from farmlands. A field experiment was conducted in Taihu Lake region in China to assess the effects of rice-straw biochar amendment on methane (CH4) emissions from paddy fields under water-saving irrigation using three treatments, namely, control with no amendment (C0), 20 t ha−1 (C20), and 40 t ha−1 rice-straw biochar amendments (C40). Results showed that biochar application significantly decreased CH4 emissions by 29.7% and 15.6% at C20 and C40 biochar addition level, respectively. C20 significantly increased soil dissolved organic carbon, total nitrogen, and NH4+-N by 79.5, 24.5, and 47.7%, respectively, and decreased NO3−-N by 30.4% compared with C0. On the other hand, no significant difference was observed in soil pH and soil organic carbon in all treatments. C20 and C40 significantly increased and decreased soil oxidation-reduction potential, respectively. Compared with C0, rice yield and irrigation water productivity significantly increased by 24.0% and 33.4% and 36.3% and 42.5% for C20 and C40, respectively. Thus, rice-straw biochar amendment and water-saving irrigation technology can inhibit CH4 emissions while increasing rice yield and irrigation water productivity. The effects of increasing rice yield and irrigation water productivity were more remarkable for C40, but C20 was more effective in mitigating CH4 emission.
High Density Interconnect Microstrip Patch Antenna for 5G Base Stations with Integrated Filtering Performance
Authors: Salucci Marco , Castlunger Cristian , Marcantonio Davide , Oliveri Giacomo , Robol Fabrizio , Rosatti Pietro , Tosato Luciano , Zardi Francesco , Massa Andrea
Published: April 2018

The elementary radiator of a planar array for next generation millimeter-wave (mm-wave) 5G base stations is described. The antenna is designed for high density interconnect (HDI) manufacturing for yielding a compact, densely-interconnected, and highly-integrable stacked structure. The layout of the single element is determined by directly optimizing key radiation features of the whole planar arrangement according to specific application-driven requirements. In addition, thanks to the exploitation of a spline-shaped modelling of the radiator, suitable performance in terms of impedance matching, realized gain, half-power beamwidth (HPBW), polarization purity, and inter-element isolation are achieved within the 28-GHz pass-band. Moreover, integrated out-of-band filtering capabilities are obtained in selected and wide non-contiguous stop-bands without additional circuitry.
Development of an Analytical Method for Simultaneous Determination of the Modified Forms of 4,15-Diacetoxyscirpenol and their Occurrence in Japanese Retail Food
Authors: Yoshinari Tomoya , Takeda Nanami , Watanabe Maiko , Sugita-Konishi Yoshiko
Published: April 2018

4,15-Diacetoxyscirpenol (4,15-DAS) is a type A trichothecene mycotoxin produced by Fusarium species. Four modified forms of 4,15-DAS including 7-hydroxydiacetoxyscirpenol, 7,8-dihydroxydiacetoxyscirpenol, 4β,8α,15-triacetoxy-3α,7α-dihydroxy-12,13-epoxytrichothec-9-ene and 4,15-diacetylnivalenol were purified from cultures of F. equiseti. An analytical method using a multifunctional column has been developed for the simultaneous determination of 4,15-DAS, its four modified forms, T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin and neosolaniol in cereals. The performance of the current method was evaluated, and a total of 248 samples of five different commodities were analyzed for over two years by this method. 4,15-DAS was detected in Job’s tears products, corn flour and azuki bean, but it was not found in wheat flour or rye flour. The four modified forms of 4,15-DAS were detected in samples of Job’s tears products, contaminated by 4,15-DAS. This is the first report on quantification of the modified forms of 4,15-DAS in cereals.
Paneth Cells during Viral Infection and Pathogenesis
Authors: Holly Mayumi K. , Smith Jason G.
Published: April 2018

Paneth cells are major secretory cells located in the crypts of Lieberkühn in the small intestine. Our understanding of the diverse roles that Paneth cells play in homeostasis and disease has grown substantially since their discovery over a hundred years ago. Classically, Paneth cells have been characterized as a significant source of antimicrobial peptides and proteins important in host defense and shaping the composition of the commensal microbiota. More recently, Paneth cells have been shown to supply key developmental and homeostatic signals to intestinal stem cells in the crypt base. Paneth cell dysfunction leading to dysbiosis and a compromised epithelial barrier have been implicated in the etiology of Crohn’s disease and susceptibility to enteric bacterial infection. Our understanding of the impact of Paneth cells on viral infection is incomplete. Enteric α-defensins, produced by Paneth cells, can directly alter viral infection. In addition, α-defensins and other antimicrobial Paneth cell products may modulate viral infection indirectly by impacting the microbiome. Here, we discuss recent insights into Paneth cell biology, models to study their function, and the impact, both direct and indirect, of Paneth cells on enteric viral infection.
An Optimization Model for Water Management Based on Water Resources and Environmental Carrying Capacities: A Case Study of the Yinma River Basin, Northeast China
Authors: Meng Chong , Wang Xiaolei , Li Yu
Published: April 2018

In this study, an inexact two-stage stochastic programming (ITSP) model was developed for supporting water resources allocation for the four main water use sectors (industry, municipal, environmental, and agriculture) and total amount control of the pollutant emissions. The Yinma River Basin in northeast China was selected for a case study. A number of scenarios corresponding to different flow levels were examined. The flow levels reflect different probabilities of water resource availability and environmental carrying capacity. The results revealed that the optimal allocation strategies for each sector depend on water resource carrying capacity, wastewater treatment capacity, the total amount of regional control, and the water environment carrying capacity. Water ecology projects were identified that are needed to treat contaminated water and to address the insufficient carrying capacity for pollutant emissions generated in water-using processes. The results will be helpful for establishing sensible water management systems that integrate the development and utilization of water resources and protect the environment, and for providing a basis for water pollution prevention plans, the model can be used to guide management interventions to improve the water environment by regional pollutant emission control and the improvement of carrying capacity in the Yinma River Basin.
Groundwater Abstraction through Siphon Wells—Hydraulic Design and Energy Savings
Authors: Bartak Rico , Grischek Thomas
Published: April 2018

Siphon pipes were used for groundwater abstraction from wells before the development of submersible pumps. Many of the existing and operational systems were built before the 1950s and require rehabilitation. Siphon wells are difficult to design and, therefore, are often equipped with submersible pumps when the system is rehabilitated or renewed. This study presents a novel calculation tool for siphon wells and investigates the energy savings of such system in comparison to an alternative equipment with submersible pumps. A theoretical energy savings of 38% was first estimated compared to individually-operated wells (IOW) for a fictional design example just based on the calculated water levels and abstraction rates. Real energy data from two riverbank filtration (RBF) sites, which operate both siphon and IOW, were investigated in the second part of the study. The analysis of measured data revealed energy savings of 36–69%, confirming the theoretical estimation.
The Near-infrared Tip of the Red Giant Branch. I. A Calibration in the Isolated Dwarf Galaxy IC 1613
Authors: Madore Barry F. , Freedman Wendy L. , Hatt Dylan , Hoyt Taylor J. , Monson Andrew J. , Beaton Rachael L. , Rich Jeffrey A. , Jang In Sung , Lee Myung Gyoon , Scowcroft Victoria , Seibert Mark
Published: April 2018

Based on observations from the FourStar near-infrared camera on the 6.5 m Baade-Magellan telescope at Las Campanas, Chile, we present calibrations of the JHK luminosities of stars defining the tip of the red giant branch (TRGB) in the halo of the Local Group dwarf galaxy IC 1613. We employ metallicity-independent (rectified) T-band magnitudes—constructed using J-, H-, and K-band magnitudes and both (J − H) and (J − K) colors to flatten the upward-sloping red giant branch tips as otherwise seen in their apparent color–magnitude diagrams. We describe and quantify the advantages of working at these particular near-infrared wavelengths, which are applicable to both the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). We also note that these same wavelengths can be accessed from the ground for an eventual tie-in to Gaia for absolute astrometry and parallaxes to calibrate the intrinsic luminosity of the TRGB. Adopting the color terms derived from the IC 1613 data, as well as the zero points from a companion study of the Large Magellanic Cloud, whose distance is anchored to the geometric distances of detached eclipsing binaries, we find a true distance modulus of 24.32 ± 0.02 (statistical) ±0.05 mag (systematic) for IC 1613, which compares favorably with the recently published multi-wavelength, multi-method consensus modulus of 24.30 ± 0.05 mag by Hatt et al.
Measuring the Progenitor Masses and Dense Circumstellar Material of Type II Supernovae
Authors: Morozova Viktoriya , Piro Anthony L. , Valenti Stefano
Published: April 2018

Recent modeling of hydrogen-rich Type II supernova (SN II) light curves suggests the presence of dense circumstellar material (CSM) surrounding the exploding progenitor stars. This has important implications for the activity and structure of massive stars near the end of their lives. Since previous work focused on just a few events, here we expand to a larger sample of 20 well-observed SNe II. For each event we are able to constrain the progenitor zero-age main-sequence (ZAMS) mass, explosion energy, and the mass and radial extent of the dense CSM. We then study the distribution of each of these properties across the full sample of SNe. The inferred ZAMS masses are found to be largely consistent with a Salpeter distribution with minimum and maximum masses of 10.4 and 22.9 M
⊙, respectively. We also compare the individual ZAMS masses we measure with specific SNe II that have pre-explosion imaging to check their consistency. Our masses are generally comparable to or higher than the pre-explosion imaging masses, potentially helping ease the red supergiant problem. The explosion energies vary from (0.1–1.3) × 1051 erg, and for ∼70% of the SNe we obtain CSM masses in the range between 0.18 and 0.83 M
⊙. We see a potential correlation between the CSM mass and explosion energy, which suggests that pre-explosion activity has a strong impact on the structure of the star. This may be important to take into account in future studies of the ability of the neutrino mechanism to explode stars. We also see a possible correlation between the CSM radial extent and ZAMS mass, which could be related to the time with respect to explosion when the CSM is first generated.
Comet C/2011 W3 (Lovejoy) between 2 and 10 Solar Radii: Physical Parameters of the Comet and the Corona
Authors: Raymond J. C. , Downs Cooper , Knight Matthew M. , Battams Karl , Giordano Silvio , Rosati Richard
Published: April 2018

Comet C/2011 W3 (Lovejoy) is the first sungrazing comet in many years to survive perihelion passage. We report ultraviolet observations with the Ultraviolet Coronagraph Spectrometer (UVCS) spectrometer aboard the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory satellite at five heights as the comet approached the Sun. The brightest line, Lyα, shows dramatic variations in intensity, velocity centroid, and width during the observation at each height. We derive the outgassing rates and the abundances of N, O, and Si relative to H, and we estimate the effective diameter of the nucleus to be several hundred meters. We consider the effects of the large outgassing rate on the interaction between the cometary gas and the solar corona and find good qualitative agreement with the picture of a bow shock resulting from mass loading by cometary neutrals. We obtain estimates of the solar wind density, temperature, and speed, and compare them with predictions of a global magnetohydrodynamic simulation, finding qualitative agreement within our uncertainties. We also determine the sublimation rate of silicate dust in the comet’s tail by comparing the visible brightness from the Large Angle Spectroscopic Coronagraphs with the Si iii intensity from UVCS. The sublimation rates lie between the predicted rates for olivines and pyroxenes, suggesting that the grains are composed of a mixture of those minerals.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Oodera Westwood, 1874 (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae, Cleonyminae), with description of ten new species
Authors: Werner Jennifer , Peters Ralph S.
Published: April 2018

The world species ofOoderaWestwood, 1874 (Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae: Cleonyminae: Ooderini) are revised. We examined 115 specimens of this rarely collected genus and based on morphological characters assign 110 specimens to 20 recognised species, of which the following ten are described as new:Ooderacircularicollissp. n.(Morocco),O.felixsp. n.(Central African Republic),O.fidelissp. n.(Vietnam),O.floreasp. n.(Thailand),O.heikewerneraesp. n.(Botswana and South Africa),O.leibnizisp. n.(Papua New Guinea, Malaysia and Phillippines),O.mkomaziensissp. n.(Tanzania),O.namibiensissp. n.(Namibia),O.niehuisorumsp. n.(Egypt and Israel), andO.srilankiensissp. n.(Sri Lanka).OoderamonstrumNikol’skaya, 1952, syn. n., is synonymised underO.formosa(Giraud, 1863). Five specimens could not be assigned to species and are treated asOoderasp. Redescriptions are provided for all previously described valid species.OoderaalbopilosaCrosby, 1909 is excluded fromOoderaand transferred toEupelmusDalman, 1820 (Eupelmidae) asE.albopilosa(Crosby, 1909) n. comb.OoderarufimanaWestwood, 1874 andO.obscuraWestwood, 1874 are treated asnomina dubiabecause we were unable to locate type specimens and the original descriptions are not sufficiently informative to clarify the taxonomic status of these names. Several specimens from North America are identified as introduced specimens of the European speciesO.formosa. We provide images and diagnostic characters for all 20 included species and an identification key to species.
Corrigenda: Tan J-L, Carpenter JM, van Achterberg C (2018) An illustrated key to the genera of Eumeninae from China, with a checklist of species (Hymenoptera, Vespidae). ZooKeys 740: 109–149. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.740.22654
Authors: Tan Jiang-Li , Carpenter James M. , van Achterberg Cornelis
Published: April 2018

Corrigenda
Quality and Safety as a Core Leadership Competency
Authors: Bleich Michael R.
Published: April 2018

A leader's toolbox of competencies comprises knowledge, skills, and abilities in clinical care, finance, human resource management, and more. As essential as these are, a strong command of quality and safety competencies is sovereign in leading and managing, ensuring an optimal patient experience. Four core areas of quality and safety competencies are presented: systems science, knowledge workers, implementation science and big data, and quality safety tools and techniques.
J Contin Educ Nurs.
2018;49(5):200–202.
The Effects of Preceptor Training on New Graduate Registered Nurse Transition Experiences and Organizational Outcomes
Authors: Piccinini Carina J. , Hudlun Nancy , Branam Karen , Moore Jill M.
Published: April 2018

Background:

New graduate RNs (NGRNs) may experience difficulties in their transition to independent practice. The main role of preceptors is to guide, validate, and supervise the care that NGRNs provide. However, preceptors may not receive training to serve in the role.

Method:

A literature review of the past 5 years was conducted, with 10 articles meeting the inclusion criteria to analyze the effects of preceptor training on NGRN outcomes.

Results:

Ten studies indicated a range of positive effects of preceptor training on NGRN transition experiences and organizational outcomes, including critical thinking and retention. Findings on NGRNs' stress levels are contradictory and ambiguous.

Conclusion:

A variety of positive outcomes can be realized for NGRNs who partner with formally trained preceptors.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2018;49(5):216–220.
Factors Influencing Registered Nurses' Perceptions of Their Professional Identity: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Rasmussen Philippa , Henderson Ann , Andrew Nicky , Conroy Tiffany
Published: April 2018

Background:

This review synthesizes contemporary research investigating the factors influencing RNs' perceptions of their professional identity.

Method:

The method used was an integrative literature review.

Results:

Factors influencing RNs' perceptions of their professional identity were synthesized into three categories: the self, the role, and the context. The self is the nurse who enacts the role in practice, and the context is the practice setting. Poor alignment of these categories leads to stress, tension, and uncertainty affecting work-force retention. Strong alignment leads to satisfaction with the nursing role, increased staff retention, and improved quality of care and patient outcomes. These three categories should be considered when planning nursing professional development activities.

Conclusion:

This integrative review identified a lack of research addressing how nurses' perceptions of their professional identity change over time. A deeper understanding of their perspective is needed to establish whether career longevity and continued professional development are influences.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2018;49(5):225–232.
FEM Modeling of Stress Distribution and Displacement in Clayey Soils during Artificial Compaction
Authors: Ungureanu Nicoleta , Vlăduţ Valentin , Biriş Sorin Ștefan , Paraschiv Gigel
Published: April 2018

Knowledge of soil behavior under compressive loads is important in order to prevent or minimize the impact of soil compaction on the environment and agricultural production. The aim of this study was to simulate the behavior of a clayey soil under wheel loads applied by an agricultural trailer. For known characteristics of the soil, wheel loads of 4.5 kN and 21 kN and tire inflation pressures of 180, 240 and 300 kPa, were obtained the models of stress distribution and soil displacement. For 300 kPa tire inflation pressure and 21 kN wheel load, were obtained: maximum stress of 175 kPa concentrated in the topsoil at about 140 mm depth, with smaller significant values distributed to 380 mm, and maximum soil displacement of 28.1 mm.
Mechatronic System for Locomotion Rehabilitation
Authors: Dumitru Nicolae , Didu Anca , Copilusi Petre Cristian
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study is to develop computational mathematical models for virtual prototyping of an actuation system from an exoskeleton human knee joint. These models are a part of the virtual and experimental prototype of a mechatronic system for locomotion rehabilitation in case of disabled persons. Experimental tests were performed on a group of persons without locomotion deficiencies. The obtained database was used to develop geometrical kinematic synthesis of the exoskeleton actuation mechanisms for knee’s joint and also ankle.
Influence of SiO2 Micro- Particles on Microstructure, Mechanical Properties and Wear Resistance of UHMWPE Based Composite under Dry Sliding Friction
Authors: Puangmalee Noppanuch , Sonjaitham Narongrit , Saengthip Setthawit , Mungnuae Noppanan , Solklin Surachade , Wannasri Surat
Published: April 2018

This research investigated the influence of silicon dioxide (SiO2) with particle size of 5 micron on microstructure, mechanical properties and wear resistance of UHMWPE polymeric composite materials under dry sliding friction that was tested by Block–on–ring technique according to ASTM G77. Bulk UHMWPE composite specimen was reinforced with SiO2 particles by weight fraction of 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 wt.%. Specimen was performed by hot compression process with the compression forming conditions at the temperature of 202°C, pressure of 9.7 MPa and exposure time of 77 minutes. It was found that, SiO2 particle fraction in the range of not exceed than 0.5 wt.% did not affect to change microstructure of the specimen, which its microstructure did not significantly different from the initial UHMWPE specimen due to SiO2 particles were dispersed uniformly in the UHMWPE matrix. Its microstructure appeared in a spherulitic structure pattern. However, the increasing of SiO2 more than 0.5 wt.% affect to changed microstructure due to the SiO2 particles separated from the matrix and accumulated on the UHMWPE matrix. For the case of mechanical and wear resistance properties, the increasing of SiO2 particle of 0.5-1 wt.% affect to increased various mechanical properties to have a highest value and lowest wear rate as compared with initial UHMWPE up to 1.7 times. After that, the increasing of SiO2 particle affect to mechanical properties and wear resistance were decreased, except for the hardness that continuously increased according to the increasing of SiO2.
Colorimetric Determination of Metal Ions Using Smartphone
Authors: Urazov Eldar V. , Gavrilenko Maria A. , Belikov Mikhail K.
Published: April 2018

The visible sensing determination with color change after solid phase extraction using polymethacrylate matrix and colorimetric smartphone-based technique have been highlighted. The smartphone-based method based on digital photo of transparent polymer optode for metal ions determination is proposed for diapason 0.02-60 mg/L. The optical property of polymer matrix enables a visual color change during its reaction with the analytes. Proposed method is compared with spectrophotometric and colorimetric analysis.
Simulation of Translational Data Acquisition Scheme of X-Ray Computed Tomography for Application in NDT
Authors: Afornu Bright Kwame , Joseph Odii Christopher , Ozdiev Ali , Sednev Dmitriy A.
Published: April 2018

The invention of computed tomography some few decades ago, coupled with its applications in the field of non-destructive testing for industrial objects inspection has revolutionized the way inspections were formerly done. Despite the conventional data acquisition scheme which is integrated with a rotational stage in between the source and the detector works perfectly for small and lighter objects, hence, it seems impossible to investigate complicated, bulky objects with interconnected unbalanced composites. Moreover, it will be very expensive to harnessed technologies into the rotational stage which can be incorporated into this conventional technique with an optimum degree of accuracy. Therefore, this paper will consider the translational data acquisition scheme which is proven mathematically as an alternative method to the conventional technique [1]. This translational scheme takes into account the variations and the magnification of both the source x-ray and the detector around the object and then proceeded by scans from different focal distances. Python packages with necessary plugins were used in implementing the reconstructive algorithm generated in simulating and modelling a suitable image of inspected object.
Numerical Simulation of Combustion of a Metallized Composite Solid Propellant with Additives of Nanosized Aluminum Particles
Authors: Poryazov Vasiliy A. , Krainov Aleksey Yu.
Published: April 2018

The paper presents a numerical simulation of combustion of a metallized composite solid propellant with additives of micron-and nanosized aluminum particles. The model takes into account the thermal effect of decomposition of the condensed phase, convection, diffusion, the exothermic chemical reaction in the gas phase, heating and combustion of aluminum particles in the gas flow, the flow of combustion products, the particle velocity lag relative to the gas. The effect of the Al particle size and mass fraction, emitted from the burning surface, on the burning rate is also taken into consideration.
Modification of Hypereutectic Silumin by Ion-Electron-Plasma Method
Authors: Rygina Maria E. , Ivanov Yurii F. , Laskovnev Alexander P. , Teresov Anton D. , Cherenda Nikolay N. , Uglov Vladimir V. , Petrikova Elizaveta A. , Krysina Olga V.
Published: April 2018

Hypereutectic silumin is aluminum-silicon alloy. It is widely used as the material for producing pistons and sliding bearings. The samples were obtained in Belorussian State University and in the Physical-Technical Institute of the National Academy of Sciences. The percentage of silicon is 18-20 wt.%. The structure has a large number of pores and cracks. The size of pores is 100 μm. The method of modification have been carried out in two steps. The first step is ion-plasma deposition ZrTiCu coating. The second step is melting the coating into the substrate. After modification microhardness is 3.2 GPa, wear resistance is 1.8 times less than in the untreated samples. The crystallites size is 0,2-0,4 μm. Thus, this method allows to obtain alloys in the near-surface layer, grinding the structure and increasing mechanical characteristics.
Influence of Microwave and Electron Beam Irradiation on Composition of Aluminum Nanopowder
Authors: Mostovshchikov Andrei V. , Korshunov Andrey V. , Ilyin Alexander P. , Kalinich Ivan , Chumerin Pavel Yu.
Published: April 2018

The influence of microwave irradiation (9.4 GHz) and electron beam (250 keV) on metal aluminum content in aluminum nanopowder is studied. It is established that after irradiation the content of metal aluminum in Al nanopowder increases. The most likely explanation is the reduction of aluminum ions Al3+ in the oxide shell at the surface of aluminum nanoparticles to produce metal.
Antibodies Encoded by FCRL4-Bearing Memory B Cells Preferentially Recognize Commensal Microbial Antigens
Authors: Liu Yanling , McDaniel Jonathan R. , Khan Srijit , Campisi Paolo , Propst Evan J. , Holler Theresa , Grunebaum Eyal , Georgiou George , Ippolito Gregory C. , Ehrhardt Götz R. A.
Published: April 2018

FCRL4, a low-affinity IgA Ab receptor with strong immunoregulatory potential, is an identifying feature of a tissue-based population of memory B cells (Bmem). We used two independent approaches to perform a comparative analysis of the Ag receptor repertoires of FCRL4+ and FCRL4− Bmem in human tonsils. We determined that FCRL4+ Bmem displayed lower levels of somatic mutations in their Ag receptors compared with FCRL4− Bmem but had similar frequencies of variable gene family usage. Importantly, Abs with reactivity to commensal microbiota were enriched in FCRL4+ cells, a phenotype not due to polyreactive binding characteristics. Our study links expression of the immunoregulatory FCRL4 molecule with increased recognition of commensal microbial Ags.
Integrin Activation Controls Regulatory T Cell–Mediated Peripheral Tolerance
Authors: Klann Jane E. , Kim Stephanie H. , Remedios Kelly A. , He Zhaoren , Metz Patrick J. , Lopez Justine , Tysl Tiffani , Olvera Jocelyn G. , Ablack Jailal N. , Cantor Joseph M. , Boland Brigid S. , Yeo Gene , Zheng Ye , Lu Li-Fan , Bui Jack D. , Ginsberg Mark H. , Petrich Brian G. , Chang John T.
Published: April 2018

Maintenance of the regulatory T (Treg) cell pool is essential for peripheral tolerance and prevention of autoimmunity. Integrins, heterodimeric transmembrane proteins consisting of α and β subunits that mediate cell-to-cell and cell-to-extracellular matrix interactions, play an important role in facilitating Treg cell contact–mediated suppression. In this article, we show that integrin activation plays an essential, previously unappreciated role in maintaining murine Treg cell function. Treg cell–specific loss of talin, a β integrin–binding protein, or expression of talin(L325R), a mutant that selectively abrogates integrin activation, resulted in lethal systemic autoimmunity. This dysfunction could be attributed, in part, to a global dysregulation of the Treg cell transcriptome. Activation of integrin α4β1 led to increased suppressive capacity of the Treg cell pool, suggesting that modulating integrin activation on Treg cells may be a useful therapeutic strategy for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Taken together, these results reveal a critical role for integrin-mediated signals in controlling peripheral tolerance by virtue of maintaining Treg cell function.
Developing a measure for student perspectives on institutional effectiveness in higher education
Authors: Ayuk Peter T. , Jacobs Gerrie J.
Published: April 2018

Orientation: This study outlines institutional effectiveness (IE) in higher education (HE) and interrogates its underlying elements from a student perspective. Following a review of contemporary perspectives on student educational outcomes, the study identifies and explores the importance of four pertinent indicators of IE in the context of a South African (SA) higher education institution (HEI). Research purpose: This study aimed to explore the structural validity and reliability of the Student Educational Outcomes Effectiveness Questionnaire (SEEQ), administered to students at an SA HEI, collecting data on their perceptions of IE. Motivation for the study: Institutional effectiveness is a contested concept in HE and several approaches to define it, using various sets of underpinning elements, can be found. The conceptualisation and measuring of IE within the SA HE sector is a hugely neglected area of research. This study therefore attempted to delineate and to gauge IE, utilising the perceptions and preferences of students at an SA HEI. Research design, approach and method: Data for this study were collected using a self-selection sample (N = 807) of students from four schools at the selected HEI. Reliability and exploratory factor analyses were performed to explore the internal consistency and structural validity of the above-mentioned SEEQ. Main findings: The reliability of SEEQ is deemed to be acceptable and the validity of the four theoretical constructs (or dimensions) hypothesised in respect of IE from a student perspective were supported. Practical/managerial implications: Preliminary empirical evidence suggests that SEEQ could be employed in a cautious manner by HEIs (especially in SA), with a view to gauge IE, as well as to promoting the scholarship and management of institutional performance and student success. Contribution or value-add: This article presents a multidimensional approach to the depiction and measurement of IE from a student perspective. It makes a handy initial contribution to a grossly under-researched phenomenon in the SA HE sector.
Experimental study of H2SO4 aerosol nucleation at high ionization levels
Authors: Tomicic Maja , Bødker Enghoff Martin , Svensmark Henrik
Published: April 2018

Abstract. One hundred and ten direct measurements of aerosol nucleation rate at high
ionization levels were performed in an 8 m3 reaction chamber. Neutral and
ion-induced particle formation from sulfuric acid (H2SO4) was
studied as a function of ionization and H2SO4 concentration. Other
species that could have participated in the nucleation, such as NH3
or organic compounds, were not measured but assumed constant, and the
concentration was estimated based on the parameterization by
Gordon et al. (2017). Our parameter space is thus [H2SO4] =4×106-3×107 cm−3, [NH3+ org] = 2.2 ppb, T=295 K,
RH = 38 %, and ion concentrations of 1700–19 000 cm−3. The
ion concentrations, which correspond to levels caused by a nearby supernova,
were achieved with gamma ray sources. Nucleation rates were directly measured
with a particle size magnifier (PSM Airmodus A10) at a size close to critical
cluster size (mobility diameter of ∼ 1.4 nm) and formation rates at a
mobility diameter of ∼ 4 nm were measured with a CPC (TSI model 3775).
The measurements show that nucleation increases by around an order of
magnitude when the ionization increases from background to supernova levels
under fixed gas conditions. The results expand the parameterization presented
in Dunne et al. (2016) and Gordon et al. (2017) (for [NH3+org] =
2.2 ppb and T=295 K) to lower sulfuric acid concentrations and higher
ion concentrations. The results make it possible to expand the
parameterization presented in Dunne et al. (2016) and Gordon et al. (2017) to
higher ionization levels.
The interdecadal worsening of weather conditions affecting aerosol pollution in the Beijing area in relation to climate warming
Authors: Zhang Xiaoye , Zhong Junting , Wang Jizhi , Wang Yaqiang , Liu Yanju
Published: April 2018

Abstract. The weather conditions affecting aerosol pollution in Beijing and its
vicinity (BIV) in wintertime have worsened in recent years, particularly
after 2010. The relation between interdecadal changes in weather conditions
and climate warming is uncertain. Here, we analyze long-term variations of an
integrated pollution-linked meteorological index (which is approximately and
linearly related to aerosol pollution), the extent of changes in vertical
temperature differences in the boundary layer (BL) in BIV, and northerly
surface winds from Lake Baikal during wintertime to evaluate the potential
contribution of climate warming to changes in meteorological conditions
directly related to aerosol pollution in this area; this is accomplished
using NCEP reanalysis data, surface observations, and long-term vertical
balloon sounding observations since 1960. The weather conditions affecting
BIV aerosol pollution are found to have worsened since the 1960s as a whole.
This worsening is more significant after 2010, with PM2.5 reaching
unprecedented high levels in many cities in China, particularly in BIV. The
decadal worsening of meteorological conditions in BIV can partly be
attributed to climate warming, which is defined by more warming in the higher
layers of the boundary layer (BL) than the lower layers. This worsening can
also be influenced by the accumulation of aerosol pollution, to a certain
extent (particularly after 2010), because the increase in aerosol pollution
from the ground leads to surface cooling by aerosol–radiation interactions,
which facilitates temperature inversions, increases moisture accumulations,
and results in the extra deterioration of meteorological conditions. If
analyzed as a linear trend, weather conditions have worsened by
∼ 4 % each year from 2010 to 2017. Given such a deterioration rate,
the worsening of weather conditions may lead to a corresponding amplitude
increase in PM2.5 in BIV during wintertime in the next 5 years (i.e.,
2018 to 2022). More stringent emission reduction measures will need to be
conducted by the government.
Wildfires as a source of airborne mineral dust – Revisiting a
conceptual model using Large-Eddy simulations (LES)
Authors: Wagner Robert , Jähn Michael , Schepanski Kerstin
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Airborne mineral dust is a key player in the Earth system and shows manifold of impacts on atmospheric properties such as the radiation budget and cloud micro-physics. Investigations of smoke plumes originating from wildfires found significant fractions of mineral dust within these plumes – raised by strong turbulent winds related to the fire. The present study revisits the conceptual model describing the emission of mineral dust particles during wildfires by pyro-convection as described by the literature. This is achieved by means of high resolved Large-Eddy simulations (LES), conducted with the All Scale Atmospheric Model (ASAM). The impact of different fire properties representing typical grassland and shrubland fires, and different ambient atmospheric conditions on the fire-driven winds and their capability to mobilize mineral dust particles were investigated. Results from this study illustrate that the energy release of the fire leads to a strong increase in strength and frequency of occurrence of intense near-surface winds, which exceed typical threshold velocities inevitably required for dust emissions. The fire-induced modulations of the wind field can be transported up to some kilometers downstream of the fire area and are able to favor dust emissions also in some distance to the fire area. Although measurements showed already the importance of wildfires on dust emissions, pyro-convection is so far neglected as a dust emission process in atmosphere-aerosol models. The results presented in this study can be seen as the first step towards a systematic parameterization representing the connection between typical fire properties and related dust emissions, which eventually can be implemented in larger-scale aerosol models ultimately contributing to the reduction of uncertainties in the aerosol-climate feedback.