bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Limited Quantum Helium Transportation through Nano-channels by Quantum Fluctuation
Authors: Ohba Tomonori 
Published: July 2016

AbstractHelium at low temperatures has unique quantum properties such as superfluidity, which causes it to behave differently from a classical fluid. Despite our deep understanding of quantum mechanics, there are many open questions concerning the properties of quantum fluids in nanoscale systems. Herein, the quantum behavior of helium transportation through one-dimensional nanopores was evaluated by measuring the adsorption of quantum helium in the nanopores of single-walled carbon nanohorns and AlPO4-5 at 2–5 K. Quantum helium was transported unimpeded through nanopores larger than 0.7 nm in diameter, whereas quantum helium transportation was significantly restricted through 0.4-nm and 0.6-nm nanopores. Conversely, nitrogen molecules diffused through the 0.4-nm nanopores at 77 K. Therefore, quantum helium behaved as a fluid comprising atoms larger than 0.4–0.6 nm. This phenomenon was remarkable, considering that helium is the smallest existing element with a (classical) size of approximately 0.27 nm. This finding revealed the presence of significant quantum fluctuations. Quantum fluctuation determined the behaviors of quantum flux and is essential to understanding unique quantum behaviors in nanoscale systems.
First physical evidence for forested environment in the Arctic during MIS 3
Authors: Sarala Pertti , Väliranta Minna , Eskola Tiina , Vaikutiené Giedré 
Published: July 2016

AbstractOld sedimentological and geochronological records can be preserved underneath the central parts of the continental ice sheets under non-erosive, cold-based subglacial conditions. Organic deposits that predate the last deglaciation are of particular value for the information held on glacial-time climate and environmental conditions. In this study, we present multiproxy data derived from a well-preserved MIS 3 interstadial (55–25 ka ago) organic layer from inside the Arctic Circle in the Finnish Lapland. Biological proxy evidence, namely coming from aquatic plant species, indicates July temperatures as high as 14.4 °C, i.e. higher than those of today for the study site. Macrofossil evidence demonstrates for the first time the presence of pines accompanied by tree birch during the MIS 3 interstadial in northern Fennoscandia. These results concur with contemporary insolation model outcomes but contradict with the previous proxy-based view of open tundra conditions during the MIS 3. The data suggest that there are highly dynamic interstadial continental ice-sheet dynamics following changes in orbital forcing. Warm climate enabled the establishment of forests on exposed landscape. Moreover, we suggest that in the light of these new data, previous MIS 3 pollen data could be re-interpreted.
Synergistic Effect of H2O2 and NO2 in Cell Death Induced by Cold Atmospheric He Plasma
Authors: Girard Pierre-Marie , Arbabian Atousa , Fleury Michel , Bauville Gérard , Puech Vincent , Dutreix Marie , Sousa João Santos 
Published: July 2016

AbstractCold atmospheric pressure plasmas (CAPPs) have emerged over the last decade as a new promising therapy to fight cancer. CAPPs’ antitumor activity is primarily due to the delivery of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), but the precise determination of the constituents linked to this anticancer process remains to be done. In the present study, using a micro-plasma jet produced in helium (He), we demonstrate that the concentration of H2O2, NO2− and NO3− can fully account for the majority of RONS produced in plasma-activated buffer. The role of these species on the viability of normal and tumour cell lines was investigated. Although the degree of sensitivity to H2O2 is cell-type dependent, we show that H2O2 alone cannot account for the toxicity of He plasma. Indeed, NO2−, but not NO3−, acts in synergy with H2O2 to enhance cell death in normal and tumour cell lines to a level similar to that observed after plasma treatment. Our findings suggest that the efficiency of plasma treatment strongly depends on the combination of H2O2 and NO2− in determined concentrations. We also show that the interaction of the He plasma jet with the ambient air is required to generate NO2− and NO3− in solution.
Optimal numbers of residues in linkers of DNA polymerase I, T7 primase and DNA polymerase IV
Authors: Fu Yi-Ben , Wang Zhan-Feng , Wang Peng-Ye , Xie Ping 
Published: July 2016

AbstractDNA polymerase I (PolI), T7 primase and DNA polymerase IV (Dpo4) have a common feature in their structures that the two main domains are connected by an unstructured polypeptide linker. To perform their specific enzymatic activities, the enzymes are required to rearrange the position and orientation of one domain relative to the other into an active mode. Here, we show that the three enzymes share the same mechanism of the transition from the inert to active modes and use the minimum numbers of residues in their linkers to achieve the most efficient transitions. The transition time to the finally active mode is sensitively dependent on the stretched length of the linker in the finally active mode while is insensitive to the position and orientation in the initially inert state. Moreover, we find that for any enzyme whose two domains are connected by an unstructured flexible linker, the stretched length (L) of the linker in the finally active mode and the optimal number (Nopt) of the residues in the linker satisfy relation L ≈ αNopt, with α = 0.24–0.27 nm being a constant insensitive to the system.
Slug inhibits pancreatic cancer initiation by blocking Kras-induced acinar-ductal metaplasia
Authors: Ebine Kazumi , Chow Christina R. , DeCant Brian T. , Hattaway Holly Z. , Grippo Paul J. , Kumar Krishan , Munshi Hidayatullah G. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractCells in the pancreas that have undergone acinar-ductal metaplasia (ADM) can transform into premalignant cells that can eventually become cancerous. Although the epithelial-mesenchymal transition regulator Snail (Snai1) can cooperate with Kras in acinar cells to enhance ADM development, the contribution of Snail-related protein Slug (Snai2) to ADM development is not known. Thus, transgenic mice expressing Slug and Kras in acinar cells were generated. Surprisingly, Slug attenuated Kras-induced ADM development, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and proliferation. Co-expression of Slug with Kras also attenuated chronic pancreatitis-induced changes in ADM development and fibrosis. In addition, Slug attenuated TGF-α-induced acinar cell metaplasia to ductal structures and TGF-α-induced expression of ductal markers in ex vivo acinar explant cultures. Significantly, blocking the Rho-associated protein kinase ROCK1/2 in the ex vivo cultures induced expression of ductal markers and reversed the effects of Slug by inducing ductal structures. In addition, blocking ROCK1/2 activity in Slug-expressing Kras mice reversed the inhibitory effects of Slug on ADM, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, proliferation and fibrosis. Overall, these results increase our understanding of the role of Slug in ADM, an early event that can eventually lead to pancreatic cancer development.
InGaN Light-Emitting Diodes with an Embedded Nanoporous GaN Distributed Bragg Reflectors
Authors: Shiu Guo-Yi , Chen Kuei-Ting , Fan Feng-Hsu , Huang Kun-Pin , Hsu Wei-Ju , Dai Jing-Jie , Lai Chun-Feng , Lin Chia-Feng 
Published: July 2016

AbstractInGaN light emitting diodes (LED) structure with an embedded 1/4λ-stack nanoporous-GaN/undoped-GaN distributed Bragg reflectors (DBR) structure have been demonstrated. Si-heavily doped GaN epitaxial layers (n+-GaN) in the 12-period n+-GaN/u-GaN stack structure are transformed into low refractive index nanoporous GaN structure through the doping-selective electrochemical wet etching process. The central wavelength of the nanoporous DBR structure was located at 442.3 nm with a 57 nm linewidth and a 97.1% peak reflectivity. The effective cavity length (6.0λ), the effective penetration depth (278 nm) in the nanoporous DBR structure and InGaN active layer matching to Fabry-Pérot mode order 12 were observed in the far-field photoluminescence radiative spectra. High electroluminescence emission intensity and line-width narrowing effect were measured in the DBR-LED compared with the non-treated LED structure. Non-linear emission intensity and line-width reducing effect, from 11.8 nm to 0.73 nm, were observed by increasing the laser excited power. Resonant cavity effect was observed in the InGaN LED with bottom nanoporous-DBR and top GaN/air interface.
Towards Enhanced Performance Thin-film Composite Membranes via Surface Plasma Modification
Authors: Reis Rackel , Dumée Ludovic F. , Tardy Blaise L. , Dagastine Raymond , Orbell John D. , Schutz Jürg A. , Duke Mikel C. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractAdvancing the design of thin-film composite membrane surfaces is one of the most promising pathways to deal with treating varying water qualities and increase their long-term stability and permeability. Although plasma technologies have been explored for surface modification of bulk micro and ultrafiltration membrane materials, the modification of thin film composite membranes is yet to be systematically investigated. Here, the performance of commercial thin-film composite desalination membranes has been significantly enhanced by rapid and facile, low pressure, argon plasma activation. Pressure driven water desalination tests showed that at low power density, flux was improved by 22% without compromising salt rejection. Various plasma durations and excitation powers have been systematically evaluated to assess the impact of plasma glow reactions on the physico-chemical properties of these materials associated with permeability. With increasing power density, plasma treatment enhanced the hydrophilicity of the surfaces, where water contact angles decreasing by 70% were strongly correlated with increased negative charge and smooth uniform surface morphology. These results highlight a versatile chemical modification technique for post-treatment of commercial membrane products that provides uniform morphology and chemically altered surface properties.
High glucose-induced cytoplasmic translocation of Dnmt3a contributes to CTGF hypo-methylation in mesangial cells
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Aimei , Zhang Wei , Huang Zhijun , Wang Jianwen , Yi Bin 
Published: July 2016

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy and we have previously identified that high glucose induced the expression of CTGF by decreasing DNA methylation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the underlying mechanisms of the high glucose-induced CTGF hypo-methylation. Human glomerular mesangial cells (hMSCs) were treated with low glucose (5 mM), mannitol (30 mM) or high glucose (30 mM) respectively. Immunofluorescence staining, real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting were performed to determine the subcellular distribution and expression of CTGF and Dnmt3a. ChIP-PCR assay was applied to investigate the capability of Dnmt3a to bind the CpG island of CTGF. Our results showed that high glucose induced both mRNA and protein expressions of CTGF, and led to increased cytoplasmic translocation of Dnmt3a in cultured hMSCs. The nuclear Dnmt3a protein was significantly reduced after high glucose treatment, although the expression of total Dnmt3a protein was not altered. We further discovered that ERK/MAPK signalling contributed to the high glucose-induced cytoplasmic translocation of Dnmt3a. Consequently, less Dnmt3a protein was bound to the CpG island of CTGF promoter, which induced an increase in CTGF expression by epigenetic regulation in the presence of high glucose. In conclusion, high glucose induces cytoplasmic translocation of Dnmt3a, possibly through activating ERK/MAPK signalling pathway, which contributes to the decreased binding of Dnmt3a on CTGF promoter and the subsequent CTGF hypo-methylation in diabetic nephropathy.
Exclusive Bilateral Internal Thoracic Artery Grafts for Myocardial Revascularization Requiring Four Anastomoses or More: Outcomes from a Single Center Experience
Authors: Perrotti Andrea , Dorigo Enrica , Durst Camille , Kaili Djamel , Chocron Sidney , Spina Amedeo 
Published: July 2016

Introduction Multivessel coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) with bilateral internal thoracic arteries (BITA) has only been uncommon and technically demanding. We describe our experience with BITA only CABGs requiring ≥ 4 anastomoses.
Material and Methods The department's database was queried for patients undergoing isolated CABG with ≥ 4 anastomoses. The surgical technique included systematically a right internal thoracic artery (ITA) of left ITA Y graft. The multivariate model included variables with a p < 0.3 at univariate analysis.
Results Between January 2006 and December 2009, 251 consecutive patients (71 ± 10 years) (on-pump: 130, off-pump: 121) had CABG with ≥ 4 anastomoses, representing 21% of total isolated CABGs for the same period; all patients received a totally arterial BITA only revascularization. Follow-up was 4.9 ± 1.6 years. Overall and cardiac cumulative survivals were 78 and 92%, respectively, at 5 years. The occurrence of any major postoperative complication was associated with overall and cardiac mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 3.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3–9.9 and OR: 5.4, 95% CI: 1.3–21.9, respectively). Major sternal wound complication requiring surgical revision was not associated with impaired glucose control (n = 9; diabetics: 6/82, 7.3%; nondiabetics: 3/169, 1.8%, p = 0.06). Preoperative kidney failure was associated with incomplete revascularization (OR: 6.2; 95% CI: 1.2–33.5), that was unfailingly due to ungraftable right coronary artery targets.
Discussion BITA only revascularization was a valuable and safe procedure, with favorable results in terms of morbidity and mortality at a 5 years' follow-up.
Epithelial Notch signaling regulates lung alveolar morphogenesis and airway epithelial integrity
Authors: Tsao Po-Nien , Matsuoka Chisa , Wei Shu-Chen , Sato Atsuyasu , Sato Susumu , Hasegawa Koichi , Chen Hung-kuan , Ling Thai-Yen , Mori Munemasa , Cardoso Wellington V. , Morimoto Mitsuru 
Published: July 2016

Significance
Formation of the gas-exchange region of the lung occurs largely postnatally through a process called alveologenesis. Alveolar abnormalities are a hallmark of neonatal and adult chronic lung diseases. Here we report that disruption of Notch signaling in mice, particularly by Notch2, results in abnormal enlargement of the alveolar spaces reminiscent of that seen in chronic lung diseases. We provide evidence that Notch is crucial to mediate cross-talk between different cell layers, including signals such as PDGF for formation of the alveoli and maintenance of the integrity of the conducting airways.
Animal-based indicators to assess welfare in zoo animals.
Authors: Manteca X. , Amat M. , Salas M. , Temple D. 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
Animal welfare is a priority for modern zoos and science-based welfare indicators are needed. Welfare indicators can be divided into environment-based and animal-based indicators. Environment-based indicators are usually easier to measure, but only animal-based indicators provide direct information on the welfare of animals and are therefore preferred. Animal-based indicators include abnormal behaviours; changes in the frequency, duration or intensity of normal behaviours; disease prevalence or incidence; life span; body condition, physiological parameters; telomere length; and keeper ratings. Some of the abnormal behaviours most commonly used to assess welfare are stereotypies, apathy, regurgitation-reingestion and feather-damaging behaviour. Changes in sleep, feed intake, rumination, displacement behaviours, anticipatory behaviour, play, affiliative behaviour, aggression and maternal behaviour can also be used to assess welfare in zoo animals. There is no single indicator that can provide all the information needed to assess the welfare of an animal or group of animals. Further, all potential welfare indicators have shortcomings and methodological limitations. Therefore, several indicators have to be used to assess zoo animal welfare and they should be checked for validity, reliability and feasibility. Also, both positive and negative indicators of welfare should be used. One area deserving further research is the development of welfare assessment protocols that combine the best indicators for a given species or taxonomic group. Some of the protocols developed for farm animals could be applied to zoo animals. Most research on welfare assessment of zoo animals refers to mammals and birds and identification of welfare indicators for reptiles, fish and amphibians is another research priority.
Study of subsurface initiation mechanism for white etching crack formation
Authors: Diederichs Annika M. , Barteldes Soeren , Schwedt Alexander , Mayer Joachim , Holweger Walter 
Published: July 2016

The present paper describes a novel way to detect early stages in the gradual transformation of SAE 52100 bearing steel material to white etching cracks (WEC). The underlying transformation is recorded and investigated by a complementary use of Barkhausen noise measurements, ultrasonic measurements and scanning electron microscopy. While ultrasonic measurements can only be used to detect cracks in a failed component, the recently improved Barkhausen noise measurement technique can be used to detect possible early stages of microstructural transformation. A cross section from a region without ultrasonic signal but with a Barkhausen signal has been investigated by the use of scanning electron microscopes in order to reveal possible pre-stages of WEC formation. These findings support that WEC are locally initiated in subsurface regions. Within those modified regions, carbides start to dissolve in consequence of deformation accumulation, which has been identified as an early state of WEA microstructure formation. This paper is part of a Themed Issue on Recent developments in bearing steels.
Military apprenticeships in the US: an implementation evaluation
Authors: Hanson Devlin , Lerman Robert I 
Published: July 2016

Purpose
– Apprenticeships in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, which operate under the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP), now account for about 20 percent of all registered apprentices in the USA. The purpose of this paper is to draw on interviews and focus groups to examine the strengths and limitations of USMAP, develops implications of the study for policy, and presents ideas for demonstration projects to learn how best to improve USMAP.

Design/methodology/approach
– The primary method involved background research on USMAP and USMAP occupations, interviews with key staff members involved with USMAP operations, and 11 focus groups at two Navy and two Marine Corps bases with USMAP apprentices, USMAP completers, and USMAP supervisors.

Findings
– The study contributes by answering key questions about USMAP. Positives include the potential to upgrade skills, document occupational competencies, and smooth the transition to civilian employment. The study shows that service members have a weak understanding of the rationale for participating and for completing their apprenticeships. Logistical problems often result in incomplete documentation. Counselors lack knowledge about how to make USMAP completers attractive to employers. Finally, USMAP does little to engage employers in insuring the occupational standards are adequate for civilian jobs and in hiring those completing apprenticeships. The study draws policy implications and presents an agenda for research.

Practical implications
– The military should provide additional financial support to help the program connect participants with civilian jobs, including a website where employers could search for candidates and communicate with veterans.

Originality/value
– This study is the first to examine the operations and implementation of the USMAP.
Skilled trades to university student: luck or courage?
Authors: Watt Bonnie 
Published: July 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to examine participants’ experiences as they transitioned from the skilled trade labor workforce to the school teaching profession. Their goal was to work in the secondary school system as certificated teachers.Design/methodology/approach– The study examined interview data from a 2014 to 2015 evaluation study of participants in the Career and Technology Studies Bridge to Teacher Certification Program in Alberta. Interview comments of 20 participants were analyzed.Findings– Participants earning a bachelor of education degree countered their skilled trade habitus with adjustment to the university habitus, with support provided though the program and strong networks among the students. Individuals demonstrated resiliency, persistence, and optimism. The findings may have significance more broadly for a re-examination of university policies and spaces for non-traditional students.Originality/value– The paper provides an insight into how a well-designed program provides opportunities for individuals to transition from the skilled trade workforce to university. Further, the paper contributes to the scholarly literature in the area of second-career teachers’ habitus, fields, and capitals.
The World Englishes paradigm
Authors: Lee Kang-Young , Warren Green Randy 
Published: July 2016

Purpose
The world Englishes (WE) paradigm gravitating around the recent models of English has been theoretically discussed in the applied linguistics profession: that is, English today has gone beyond the general description of post-colonial and institutionalized varieties and is being defined as the linguistic diversity realized by all global users (Ates et al., 2015). This advocates the creation of “multidialectical English speakers/listeners” among WE with intercultural insight and knowledge (Lee, 2012) by supporting linguistic and cultural diversity with cultural tolerance. While theoretical discussions on WE abound, this paper aims to focus more on local learners/users of WE: it investigates Korean university students’ perceptions of WE, their attitudes toward WE and finally factors that affect their perceptions and attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach
Sixty Korean students in a university participated in the survey. Data include questionnaires and interviews.

Findings
Results indicate that the students still have a preference and are able to more easily recognize the inner circle (IC) Englishes but have a keen interest in being exposed to WE for less stressful, more interactive, communicative and comprehensible uses. Pedagogical implications and suggestions are also discussed.

Research limitations/implications
The data enable researchers to gain more insight into several of the social, political and cultural aspects or dimensions that are at play in the WE debate. As previous studies have indicated, an individual’s attitude toward WE is not just a simple matter of choosing which form of English to learn; it is one that has important ramifications in shaping a person’s worldview and cultural perspectives. Within the context of the WE paradigm, this study reveals the influence still held by IC countries yet provides strong evidence that an awareness of the reality of and interest in WE presently exists in Korea.

Practical/implications
This finding has important implications for English instructors, institutions and educational policy makers in the expanding circle where local varieties of English are emerging.

Originality/value
This paper is all originated from the current study’s research questions and interviews. Students were all attending a university at that time. This study carries an important value, as it reports how Korean university students feel/value WE in relation to IC Englishes and how they feel and shape their attitudes toward the theoretical justification of WE.