bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Confinement et rupture du cadre ordinaire de l’école : la mise en acte d’un fantasme adolescent ?
Authors: Berthet-Jendoubi Florence
Published: June 2021

L’approche clinique d’orientation psychanalytique conduit l’auteure à appréhender le confinement imposé pendant la crise du coronavirus comme la mise en acte imprévisible et catastrophique d’un fantasme adolescent récurrent : la suppression de l’école. La disparition du cadre organisationnel de l’institution scolaire, désormais « non muet », selon la théorisation de José Bleger, mettrait au jour certaines modalités symbiotiques du lien pédagogique que la mise en place de la continuité pédagogique par les nouvelles technologies a parfois modifiées. Il s’agira dès lors d’élaborer les concepts de « puissance » et de « profanation » dans la lignée des travaux de Giorgio Agamben pour envisager la dimension éventuellement créatrice de cette crise.
Le consultant face à l’emprise
Authors: Benelbaz Jonathan , Padurariu Andreea
Published: June 2021

L’objet de cet article est de décrire le travail du consultant dans le cadre d’une intervention menée sous forme d’enquête pour le compte d’une organisation exerçant dans le secteur de la prestation des soins à la personne. En s’appuyant sur leur enquête, les auteurs cherchent, dans un premier temps, à expliquer le rôle de consultant dans un travail de transformation de l’instance groupale au sein d’une organisation marquée par une dynamique conflictuelle. Dans un second temps, les auteurs visent à présenter les différentes étapes de leur intervention. Ces étapes s’efforcent de recueillir la parole et le vécu subjectif des interlocuteurs, de donner du sens à leur vécu pour relancer leur pensée et permettre ainsi de favoriser la coopération entre les acteurs de l’organisation.
Global boundedness for a chemotaxis-competition system with signal dependent sensitivity and loop
Authors: Huang Chun
Published: June 2021

In this work, the fully parabolic chemotaxis-competition system with loop

   $ \begin{eqnarray*} \left\{ \begin{array}{llll} &\partial_{t} u_{1} = d_1\Delta u_{1}-\nabla\cdot(u_{1}\chi_{11}(v_{1})\nabla v_{1}) \\& \qquad -\nabla\cdot(u_{1}\chi_{12}(v_{2})\nabla v_{2}) +\mu_{1}u_{1}(1-u_{1}-a_{1}u_{2}),\\ &\partial_{t} u_{2} = d_2\Delta u_{2}-\nabla\cdot(u_{2}\chi_{21}(v_{1})\nabla v_{1}) \\& \qquad -\nabla\cdot(u_{2}\chi_{22}(v_{2})\nabla v_{2}) +\mu_{2}u_{2}(1-u_{2}-a_{2}u_{1}), \\ &\partial_t v_1 = d_3\Delta v_{1}-\lambda_{1} v_{1}+h_1(u_{1}, u_{2}), \\ &\partial_t v_2 = d_4\Delta v_{2}-\lambda_{2} v_{2}+h_2(u_{1}, u_{2}) \\ \end{array} \right. \end{eqnarray*} $

is considered under the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition, where $ x\in\Omega, t>0 $, $ \Omega\subset \mathbb{R}^{n} (n\leq 3) $ is a bounded domain with smooth boundary. For any regular nonnegative initial data, it is proved that if the parameters $ \mu_1, \mu_2 $ are sufficiently large, then the system possesses a unique and global classical solution for $ n\leq 3 $. Specifically, when $ n = 2 $, the global boundedness can be attained without any constraints on $ \mu_1, \mu_2 $.
Synchronization for a class of complex-valued memristor-based competitive neural networks(CMCNNs) with different time scales
Authors: Zhao Yong , Ren Shanshan
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the synchronization problem of complex-valued memristive competitive neural networks(CMCNNs) with different time scales is investigated. Based on differential inclusions and inequality techniques, some novel sufficient conditions are derived to ensure synchronization of the drive-response systems by designing a proper controller. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the usefulness and feasibility of our results.
Application of the bernstein polynomials for solving the nonlinear fractional type Volterra integro-differential equation with caputo fractional derivatives
Authors: Moussai Miloud
Published: June 2021

The current work aims at finding the approximate solution to solve the nonlinear fractional type Volterra integro-differential equation

   \begin{document}$ \begin{equation*} \sum\limits_{k = 1}^{m}F_{k}(x)D^{(k\alpha )}y(x)+\lambda \int_{0}^{x}K(x, t)D^{(\alpha )}y(t)dt = g(x)y^{2}(x)+h(x)y(x)+P(x). \end{equation*} $\end{document}

In order to solve the aforementioned equation, the researchers relied on the Bernstein polynomials besides the fractional Caputo derivatives through applying the collocation method. So, the equation becomes nonlinear system of equations. By solving the former nonlinear system equation, we get the approximate solution in form of Bernstein's fractional series. Besides, we will present some examples with the estimate of the error.
Exploring the Feedback Quality of an Automated Writing Evaluation System Pigai
Authors: Gao Jianmin
Published: June 2021

The study made an exploration of the feedback quality of an Automated Writing Evaluation system (AWE) Pigai, which has been widely applied in English teaching and learning in China. The study not only focused on the diagnostic precision of the feedback but also investigated the students’ perceptions of the feedback use in their daily writing practices. Taking 104 university students’ final exam essays as the research materials, the paired sample t-test was conducted to compare the mean number of errors identified by Pigai and professional teachers. It was found that Pigai feedback could not so well diagnose the essays as the human feedback given by the experienced teachers, however, it was quite competent in identifying lexical errors. The analysis of students’ perceptions indicated that most students thought Pigai feedback was multi-functional, but it was inadequate in identifying the collocation errors and giving suggestions in syntactic use. The implications and limitations of the study were discussed at the end of the paper.
Improving Academic Performance Through Blended Learning: The Case of Afghan Higher Education
Authors: Sokout Hamidullah , Usagawa Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2021

The last two decades have witnessed a global revolution in educational information that has led to the development and promotion of e-learning. Blended Learning (BL) is an increasingly growing e-learning model with a background in pedagogical and psychological theory that combines both online and traditional activities. In recent years, it has been an emerging trend and has impacted the growth, revenue, learner retention, and academic accreditation in higher education. With current improvements, extensive research, and successful implementation of blended and fully online learning, little research has been done to report the success of transitioning from face-to-face to blended learning or evaluations of e-learning data regarding learners from developing nations, particularly Afghanistan. This study aims to investigate and analyze the effectiveness of educational types (blended vs. traditional) regarding learners’ academic performance, in-class engagement, and satisfaction from the data in six BL courses and four traditional learning (TL) courses. To measure the success, this study used descriptive statistics. Additionally, Welch’s t-test was used to compare BL with TL courses and assess the differences between success and failure levels for both courses. Likewise, the Pearson correlation coefficient, along with an ordinary least square regression, was used to indicate the relationship between the final score and the BL and TL activities, respectively. The study outcome will be used for reporting and feedback for educational parties to value the quality of teaching and learning, enhance learners’ performances, and for the institutionalization of BL in the country.
A Hadoop-Based Online Teaching Model of "VisibleBody"
Authors: Deng Haiyan , Li Chunyan
Published: June 2021

It is the responsibility of nursing educators to cultivate community nursing professionals who can adapt to the post and meet social needs. However, there exist some problems in current community nursing curriculum education such as inconsistent teaching content and different levels of teachers’ lecturing. In this study, a good educational resource ecosystem was established in virtue of the mighty flexibility and expansibility of hadoop technology, the resources in community nursing teaching courses are stored in the hadoop cloud resource library. At the same time, community nursing online course resources were newly designed and improved through HdoopYarn resource scheduling algorithm, thereby realizing the establishment of a virtual experimental environment for nursing major. VisibleBody virtual medical software was applied to the internship and practical training, specifically in 12 knowledge units of 5 modules according to the characteristics of this course, demonstrating a deep-level human body structure and accurate nursing operation. An objective structured clinical examination mode was adopted in the teaching method, which could create a simulated community nursing situation during teaching, so that students could complete standardized patient assessment and examination within the given time, and accept testers’ questions and acquire results. It was found from the teaching practice that the application of teaching model is conductive to enhancing students' academic performance and improving community nursing capabilities, including problem-solving competence, communication skills, teamwork ability, etc.
Mobile Augmented Reality for Campus Visualization Using Markerless Tracking in an Indonesian Private University
Authors: Arifitama Budi , Hanan Ghali , Rofiqi Muhammad Halim
Published: June 2021

Marker in augmented reality plays a major part to initiate a virtual object in an augmented environment. Choosing a correct and reliable marker would increase the chance of creating a more stable augmented object especially for visualizing a building structure. Unfortunately, most research on visualizing building structure uses a marker-based tracking approach where users must always bring a pre-printed paper as a tracking media. This creates a problem for every time users demonstrate a specific augmented structure object, they still need to bring a printed marker to show the augmented object. The purpose of this research is to investigate the applicability of markerless-based tracking as a solution whether it can substitute the marker-based tracking on augmented reality problems. Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) is used as a markerless tracking method where it tracked and mapped the surface environment using feature extraction, then set an anchor at the specified location where the augmented object visualization appears. The results of the research found that from a total of 30 object detection tests, 21 objects are successfully detected and 9 undetected objects, this shows that markerless-based tracking is applicable and can substitute marker-based tracking for a structural campus visualization.
Web-Based Animation Video for Student Environmental Education at Elementary Schools
Authors: Safitri Desy , Lestari Ika , Maksum Arifin , Ibrahim Nurzengky , Marini Arita , Zahari Musril , Iskandar Rossi
Published: June 2021

This research and development aim at knowing the effectiveness of web-based animation videos application on environmental education of elementary school students in East Jakarta in Indonesia. Web-based animation videos for environmental education produced consisted of climate change, mangrove forest, waste recycling, biodiversity, and ozone depletion animation video pages.  Student environmental education measured was related to satisfying student natural curiosity, enhancing environmental awareness, and strengthening student pro-conservation values.  In the conclusion, it is highlighted that there is a positive effect of web-based animation videos application on student environmental education at elementary school students in Jakarta in Indonesia
L’incontournable usage du cas et de l’exemple dans l’enseignement universitaire
Authors: Delserieys Alice , Martin Perrine
Published: June 2021

La question de l’évolution des pratiques pédagogiques dans l’enseignement supérieur est actuellement au cœur des débats pour faire face, entre autres, à une baisse de motivation des étudiants ou une hétérogénéité du public étudiant. Dans ce contexte, le choix a été fait de s’interroger sur l’usage de l’exemple et l’étude de cas dans l’enseignement supérieur, pratique courante et partagée par des enseignants-chercheurs de nombreuses disciplines, même si peu explorée dans la recherche en éducation au niveau universitaire. Nous présentons dans un premier temps quelques considérations théoriques pour tenter de définir l’exemple dans l’enseignement universitaire, puis nous identifions des questions que de telles pratiques posent dans le rapport avec les étudiants et dans l’impact en termes d’efficacité des apprentissages. Les recherches présentées dans ce numéro interrogent les choix didactiques des enseignants exerçant à l’université lorsqu’ils utilisent des exemples ou des cas dans leurs cours. Elles s’appuient sur les points de vue d’enseignants-chercheurs de diverses disciplines : physique, chimie, mathématiques, histoire, géographie et urbanisme. En s’intéressant aux pratiques enseignantes universitaires et à la question de leur variété à travers l’usage de l’exemple, nous soulevons la question de leur efficacité pour engager les étudiants dans les apprentissages.
L’usage des exemples dans l’enseignement de la physique à l’université : un marqueur de l’identité pédagogique des enseignants-chercheurs ?
Authors: Hosson Cécile de , Décamp Nicolas , Colin Philippe
Published: June 2021

L’usage des exemples dans l’enseignement de la physique à l’université apparaît comme une pratique aussi banale qu’incontournable. C’est à cette pratique que nous nous intéressons ici. En tant que chercheurs en didactique de la physique, nous nous intéressons à ce que des enseignants-physiciens disent lorsqu’ils décrivent quand, comment et pourquoi ils utilisent des exemples lorsqu’ils enseignent. Ces usages déclarés sont considérés comme révélateurs du rapport que les enseignants-chercheurs entretiennent avec l’enseignement et l’apprentissage de la physique ; ils nous permettent de remonter à certaines dimensions de leur identité professionnelle, considérée dans ses dimensions épistémologiques et pédagogiques.
L’étude de cas face à l’exemple : pratiques et enjeux dans l’enseignement de la géographie et de l’aménagement à l’université
Authors: Leininger-Frézal Caroline , Douay Nicolas , Cohen Marianne
Published: June 2021

L’enseignement de la géographie et de l’aménagement renvoie à l’espace, d’un point de vue général et théorique mais aussi de façon plus spécifique, appuyé sur des espaces singuliers. Dans cette perspective la mobilisation d’exemples ou d’études de cas semble incontournable dans les pratiques pédagogiques de l’enseignement en géographie. Cette représentation est largement construite dans un héritage disciplinaire où une géographie empirique s’est construite autour d’études de cas régionaux. Alors que la géographie a connu différentes évolutions épistémologiques, il semble intéressant d’interroger la réalité des pratiques enseignantes de cette géographie contemporaine à l’université. C’est ce que cet article propose de faire par le biais de l’analyse d’un corpus d’entretiens menés auprès d’enseignants- chercheurs français de géographie ou aménagement.
Éclairer les mathématiques par les exemples ?
Authors: Kuzniak Alain , Rogalski Marc , Vivier Laurent
Published: June 2021

Nous exposons tout d’abord le lien étroit qu’entretiennent mathématiques et exemples d’un point de vue des fondements mêmes de l’activité mathématique. Puis, nous présentons rapidement des tentatives didactiques pour développer un enseignement basé sur l’usage raisonné des exemples. Cette première approche s’appuie sur six entretiens conduits avec des enseignants-chercheurs avec lesquels nous abordons les différents types d’usages des exemples dans l’enseignement supérieur français. Ceci nous conduit à une conclusion quelque peu paradoxale. En effet, si les exemples sont reconnus comme un élément essentiel nécessaire à la réalisation d’un travail mathématique efficace, y compris dans l’enseignement, leur usage reste minoré dans les pratiques des enseignants de mathématiques du supérieur, notamment dans le travail en responsabilité des étudiants. Nous interprétons cela en termes de problématisation, perçue comme essentielle pour comprendre les enjeux des mathématiques, et d’adidacticité, pour que les connaissances émergent du travail en responsabilité des étudiants.
Les exemples dans l’élaboration des démonstrations mathématiques : une approche sémantique et dialogique
Authors: Barrier Thomas
Published: June 2021

Cet article s’intéresse aux rôles des exemples dans l’élaboration des démonstrations mathématiques au niveau de l’enseignement supérieur. La question est tout d’abord abordée en mobilisant la distinction introduite par Weber et Alcock (2004) entre les approches sémantique et syntaxique des démonstrations. Cette distinction est ensuite reformulée et précisée par le recours à une modélisation explicite élaborée à partir des approches dialogiques de la logique. La modélisation, construite autour du concept de jeu, permet de traiter dans un même cadre du travail sur les exemples et du travail de manipulation formelle des énoncés. Elle contribue à en clarifier les points communs et les spécificités. La contribution des exemples à la dynamique du processus de validation est alors abordée en appui sur les notions de partie et de stratégie.
À quoi s’intéressent les enseignants dans les exemples en formation ? Étude de l’utilisation par des stagiaires de ressources basées sur la vidéo
Authors: Flandin Simon , Auby Marine , Ria Luc
Published: June 2021

Cet article rend compte d’une étude de cas en vidéoformation des enseignants. Considérant le fait que l’exemplification vidéo est une pratique en plein essor bien qu’il y ait peu de consensus dans la littérature concernant sa scénarisation pédagogique, il paraît pertinent de s’intéresser à l’activité déployée par les enseignants dans les dispositifs afin d’en identifier les caractéristiques prometteuses (nature des exemples, types d’association entre eux, modes de documentation, organisation et scénarisation, etc.). Menée dans la théorie sémiologique du cours d’action (Theureau, 2006), notre étude a consisté à confronter six stagiaires, durant deux sessions de 45 minutes, à un dispositif numérique basé sur une pédagogie des trajectoires professionnelles typiques (Durand, 2014 ; Ria & Leblanc, 2011). L’objectif était de mieux comprendre leur utilisation des exemplifications vidéos et les significations qu’elle fait émerger. Les résultats indiquent que les enseignants stagiaires ciblent préférentiellement les ressources relatives aux « règles économiques » ; privilégient les situations de classe, toujours consultées ; s’intéressent particulièrement (même s’ils sont parfois déçus) aux témoignages d’experts ; manifestent initialement une défiance envers les ressources perçues a priori comme théoriques ; s’intéressent progressivement à ces ressources lors de la seconde session. Les résultats sont discutés dans une perspective de conception de dispositifs de vidéoformation des enseignants.
L’éducation problématique du citoyen
Authors: Billouet Pierre
Published: June 2021

L’éducation du citoyen n’est pas problématique si l’homme est naturellement citoyen (Platon) : le bien de l’État et le bien de l’individu sont en harmonie. Mais si la citoyenneté suppose un contrat social, peut-on cultiver l’enfant pour qu’il devienne un citoyen libre ? Ce problème est travaillé à partir de Rousseau qui, d’une part indique comment cultiver l’enfant et d’autre part donne la définition classique du concept de l’autonomie du citoyen. L’article montre à travers différentes interprétations qu’Émile ne peut pas être le citoyen du Contrat Social. Le problème est retravaillé avec Kant, qui pense l’autonomie en tant que bien suprême. Les limites des solutions rousseauiste et kantienne conduisent à formuler deux hypothèses dans le contexte de l’éducation française.
The Four C's, Constructivism, and Digitizing Curriculum
Authors: Earl Amy , Carbee Vicki Anne , Becerra-Murillo Karina , Evans Amanda Marie
Published: June 2021

It is estimated that by 2055 humans will have entered the fourth industrial revolution, a period where technology devices will replace or redefine the human workforce. In preparation, countries around the world have transitioned their educational practices to address the needs of the ever-changing global economy and technology advancements. This shift towards preparing a technology literate workforce is frequently referred to as 21st century skills, the implementation of curriculum which meets the projected needs of learners in the future workforce. Although educators are encouraged to integrate technology in training to better equip the learner in navigating the continuously evolving digital workspace, how this is done is less clear. The purpose of this chapter is to share an inclusive method of how educational systems can digitize constructivism with 21st century skills to ensure all students are prepared for the global workforce.
The Forgotten Child
Authors: Coker David C.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this chapter is twofold: explore problems in juvenile delinquency and derive a macrobarrier to change. Juvenile delinquents have histories and complex needs which are poorly understood by educators. A barrier is the failure to understand the needs of juvenile delinquents through the leader-member exchange. Understanding the plight of juvenile delinquents serves as the microcosm for the macrobarrier of absorptive capacity. Leadership is the driving force which defines absorptive capacity. Futures studies, not solutions rooted in the past, should define the second-ordered change necessary to improve online and remote work. Three futures are offered, and a framework to develop strategic thinking gives a path to improved learning outcomes.
Engaging Graduate Students During a Pandemic
Authors: Cortes Kennedy Alyssa S. , Guzman Foster Sandra L.
Published: June 2021

This chapter explores the application of multiple technology-driven learning platforms to engage graduate-level students in emergency remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors stress the importance of integrating creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking while teaching and learning at the graduate level. Multiple platforms, technology, and other tools of engagement created a plethora of opportunities for critical thinking, use of various communication styles, various learning styles, and the creative collaboration of students to work together without being together physically in the standard brick and mortar classroom.
Analysis of the use of Seismic Dampers in Sri Lanka to Minimize Damages to Constructions in an Earthquake
Authors: Muhandiram P. M. S. S. B.
Published: June 2021

Earthquakes happen all around the world and they have now become a common threat to the mankind. Sri Lanka is also becoming more vulnerable to earthquakes due to recent geological changes. The aim of this study was to present modern methods of constructing earthquake resilient structures in the world and to study the most suitable solutions for Sri Lanka. Earthquake dampers reduce the vibrations and motions of a building during earthquakes. There are many types of earthquake dampers. Base-isolator is where the base is isolated from the building in the time of an earthquake reducing the motion of the building. Viscous dampers act as shock absorbers in the event of an earthquake, reducing the motion of the building. Friction dampers act like brakes due to its friction and reduce the motion of the building. Tuned mass dampers use the concept of inertia to keep the structure still by exerting an equal and opposite motion to the motion of the building. Core – wall method attempts to keep the centre of gravity in the centre of the building. There are many other innovative methods like the levitating foundation which creates a cushion of air between the building and the foundation at the time of an earthquake, seismic invisibility cloak which aims to make the building invisible to seismic waves, smart materials that have a larger elastic range, biomaterials that base their concepts on biological features of some creatures and cardboard tubes which presents a more affordable seismic damping solution. Considering the local conditions, the most suitable methods were studied and the following were concluded. For low and high rise buildings - friction dampers, for hospitals - base isolation, for bridges - viscous dampers, for stadiums and power distribution lines - tuned mass dampers and for towers - core wall method can be proposed.
Digital Household Energy Meter with GSM Communication for Home Energy Management
Authors: De Silva Samudra , Samarawickrama Yasantha C. , Jayasekara D. C.
Published: June 2021

This design is developed with the main aim of assisting energy consumers and utility service providers with an enhanced feature for better home energy management. Automatic generation of the monthly electricity bill avoids the prevailing drawbacks of the current energy measuring system such as time wastage, accuracy issues, human errors and possibility for fraud activities. This system can be effectively used for real time measuring and analyzing of the household energy usage. The device utilizes GSM technology to alert the consumers with energy readings in Kilo Watt hours (kWh). Any individual or an organization with an approved electricity connection by the standard utility service provider can use this device. Crucial parameters of energy appliances such as Power Factor, Rated Power and Root Mean Square (RMS) Current were analyzed with the design obtaining results appropriately. Demand charge can be effectively controlled avoiding the overall household demand exceeding a preset demand value. As evident from the specifications and results this study fulfills a prudent requirement in the home energy management sector.
A Case for Domain-Specific Research into Seafarers’ Use of English as a Lingua Franca
Authors: Dissanayake Achala K.
Published: June 2021

Due to ships’ crews and offshore personnel being multicultural and multilingual, more than one variety of English is used in communication in ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore and on-board domains. Among these speakers of many Englishes, English is being used as a lingua franca. The use of English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) in this domain is characterized by features of the many varieties of English spoken by the interlocutors as well as characteristics of the native languages of the speakers engaged in ELF. Therefore, the incorporation of both World Englishes (WE) and ELF knowledge into the pedagogy of Maritime English (ME) is crucial. Prior to this inclusion, however, more domain-specific research should be conducted into the use of ELF in maritime contexts in order to understand the manner in which ELF interactions take place among seafarers.
Reading Samuel Beckett’s Portrayal of the Self from a Buddhist Perspective
Authors: Dissanayake Achala K.
Published: June 2021

Samuel Beckett’s evocation of the self through the discussion of the intertwined themes of language, relativity/dependency, memory, time and change invites diverse perspectives from which the self could be read. Beckett, through the delineation of the self as constantly revising itself in relation to its memories and the larger social exterior, portrays the self as fragmented and impermanent. The delineation of the self in the plays Waiting for Godot (1956), Endgame (1958) and Krapp’s Last Tape (1958) as disintegrated, dependent and lacking in certitude, resonates with the Buddhist’s consideration of the self as a mental formulation.
The Role of the Postcolonial Indian Writer in Promoting Hinduism with Reference to Mysticism
Authors: Weerasena K. S. A.
Published: June 2021

Postcolonial Indian writing is heavily influenced by the religion of the colonizers and socio-cultural practices of the Westerners. Many studies are conducted to understand how postcolonial literature attempts to counteract alienation by asserting the richness and validity of native cultures in an effort to restore pride in indigenous practices and traditions. However, little research has been conducted to understand the role of the postcolonial Indian writers in glorifying their native cultures and religions which led to identify their works with mysticism. This paper explores the cultural hybridity of the postcolonial Indian writers and their effort to highlight the importance of Indian identity, culture and Hinduism which result the outside readers to identify their works with a touch of mysticism. Though the term “mysticism” is also associated with Christianity, this paper will look in to mysticism associated with post colonialism, Hindu religious practices and beliefs, Hindu gods and myths. The methodology of this study selects two instruments. Referring to the postcolonial texts: The Serpent and the Rope by Raja Rao and Midnight’s Children by Salman Rushdie, this paper builds an understanding about mysticism associated with Hinduism. It also explores the effort of the postcolonial writers to situate and promote Hinduism among the world religions which assigned connotations of mysticism and superstition in their writing.
Factors to be Considered when Purchasing, Using, Maintaining and Monitoring the Condition of Plant and Equipment for Promoting Sustainable Development
Authors: Ratnaweera S. M.
Published: June 2021

It has been found that a vast majority of organizations in this country do not have proper guidance about monitoring their plant and equipment in order to enhance productivity. First of all there should be a guide line for the selection and purchase of plant & equipment. There after we should know how to use them correctly, and also how to maintain and monitor their condition periodically. Without introducing such arrangements, most organizations suffer in their business activities and incur heavy losses. Only a few organizations have any clear idea of the factors that have to be taken into consideration when purchasing plant and equipment and other related issues. As we all know the need of the current era is sustainable development which means the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Accordingly, we have to consider the three factors namely the economy, environment and society when we purchase plant and equipment for our organizations.
Smart Container Inventory Management: A Conceptual Approach
Authors: Edirisinghe Lalith
Published: June 2021

Containerization has provided a substantial contribution to the global supply chain. However, it is quite a paradox to note that carriers do not practice or pursue a standard container inventory management system. Each individual carrier develops an inventory management mechanism that suits to their vision, mission, and objectives. These practices are hardly shared between carriers and most of them believe that container inventory management is purely the tacit knowledge of their container controllers and nothing to argue on their decisions. This attitude impedes the industry gaining the experience curve advantage and learning by mistakes. Therefore, the same mistake tends to take place quite often which is highly absurd. The paper challenges this reality and recommends a realistic approach to manage the container inventories of carriers that help reduce global container inventory imbalance. The conceptual model comprises Multidimensional carrier index and country index; 3F Container Inventory Management conceptual model; 6R container supply model; and Virtual container pool.
Functional Equivalency of Rotterdam Rules
Authors: Sankaranarayana Shane
Published: June 2021

This article critically analyses the ‘electronic transport records’ (electronic bills of lading) introduced by the Rotterdam Rules against the traditional paper bill of lading to identify the functional equivalency in the carriage of goods by sea.
Study on Factors Influencing Waste Disposal Cost and Optimize in FMCG Industry in Sri Lanka
Authors: Adipola D. I. , Mudunkotuwa R.
Published: June 2021

Waste is one of the greatest difficulties confronted by people in any country where waste contaminates indigenous habitat with devastating results if the authorities fail to take care accurately. In any case, it appears to be practically unavoidable that our general public, manufactures, industrial businesses etc. produces waste whereas only can be minimized hence the point of this rationale thesis has been to explore how to recover the material assets by rethinking waste as an asset. The study primarily focuses on two stakeholders, mainly FMCG companies in Sri Lanka who produces numerous waste per month and secondly the study focuses on professional recyclers who have ability to recycle under proper long-term agreements with unwavering trust. This paper investigates a way of sustainably disposing product wastes of FMCG companies and also the determinants of waste disposal cost and ways of optimizing in fast moving goods industry in Sri Lanka. Thus, two questionnaires were distributed focusing on FMCG players and professional recyclers within Sri Lanka to measure determinants of waste disposal cost as well as to identify a strategy to aid generating profits instead of previously used cost generative process of direct disposing the FMCG wastage. Thus, factor analysis was conducted using two hundred and ten responses and the analysis extracts seven major factors as determinants to the waste disposal cost. This study concluded a successful waste disposal strategy as sorting and recycling where can change the current game play of the FMCG companies to a new direction.
Sulforaphane Ameliorates Diabetes-Induced Renal Fibrosis through Epigenetic Up-Regulation of BMP-7
Authors: Kong Lili , Wang Hongyue , Li Chenhao , Cheng Huiyan , Cui Yan , Liu Li , Zhao Ying
Published: June 2021

Background: The dietary agent sulforaphane (SFN) has been reported to reduce diabetes-induced renal fibrosis, as well as inhibit histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity. Bone morphologic protein 7 (BMP-7) has been shown to reduce renal fibrosis induced by transforming growth factor-beta1. The aim of this study was to investigate the epigenetic effect of SFN on BMP-7 expression in diabetes-induced renal fibrosis.Methods: Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice and age-matched controls were subcutaneously injected with SFN or vehicle for 4 months to measure the in vivo effects of SFN on the kidneys. The human renal proximal tubular (HK11) cell line was used to mimic diabetic conditions in vitro. HK11 cells were transfected to over-express HDAC2 and treated with high glucose/palmitate (HG/Pal) to explore the epigenetic modulation of BMP-7 in SFN-mediated protection against HG/Pal-induced renal fibrosis.Results: SFN significantly attenuated diabetes-induced renal fibrosis in vivo. Among all of the HDACs we detected, HDAC2 activity was markedly elevated in the STZ-induced diabetic kidneys and HG/Pal-treated HK11 cells. SFN inhibited the diabetes-induced increase in HDAC2 activity which was associated with histone acetylation and transcriptional activation of the BMP-7 promoter. HDAC2 over-expression reduced BMP-7 expression and abolished the SFN-mediated protection against HG/Pal-induced fibrosis in vitro.Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that the HDAC inhibitor SFN protects against diabetes-induced renal fibrosis through epigenetic up-regulation of BMP-7.
Levels of PAHs in shrimps, Penaeus monodon from Jones Creek southern Nigeria
Authors: Ukpebor J. , Ejeomo C.
Published: June 2021

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were measured in shrimp samples  (Penaeus monodon) of Jones Creek southern Nigeria during the rainy and dry  seasons and analysed for 16 priority PAHs. The ΣPAHs ranged from 0.073 to 0.800 mg/kg for shrimp samples collected for the 18 month duration of this study. Fluorene and anthracene were the most dominant PAH observed with concentrations of 0.084 ± 0.010 mg/kg and 0.059 ± 0.007 mg/kg respectively. Fluorene was also the most detected PAH comprising 21.91% of the 16 PAHs detected while  benzo(g,h,i)perylene was the least with 0.02%. The source of contamination is closely related to human activities such as domestic and industrial discharges, refining activities and street runoff. High concentrations were recorded during the rainy season and during the first quarter of the year. The investigated samples were classified as minimally contaminated when compared with FDA levels of PAHs in shrimp samples. Distribution patterns showed that PAHs with 3 and 4 rings  dominated confirming the pyrogenic source of the detected PAH. Diagnostic ratios such as phenanthrene/anthracene and benzo(a)anthracene/chrysene were achieved to evaluate the emission sources of PAHs. These ratios indicated a pyrolytic source of PAHs for sediments, as well as a pyrolytic or pyrogenic origin of the PAHs detected in the shrimp samples obtained within the study area.Key words: PAHs, sediment, shrimps, cancer risk, diagnostic ratio.
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of principal lipid-soluble components of Pinellia ternate fermented with Bacillus subtilis, Aspergillus niger and Meyerozyma guillermondii
Authors: Wang Lin , Sun Jiabin , Yue Meiying , Wang Jin , Huang Qinwan , Lan Zelun
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To study the differences in lipid-soluble compounds from naturally-fermented Rhizoma Pinelliae fermentata (BXQ) samples, and fermentation products of BXQ using pure cultures of Bacillus subtilis, Aspergillus niger, and Meyerozyma guillermondii.

Methods: First, unfermented BXQ (CTFJ-Q), traditional, naturally-fermented BXQ (CTFJ-H), and fermentation products of BXQ using pure cultures of Bacillus subtilis (XJFJ), Aspergillus niger (MJFJ), and Meyerozyma guillermondii (JMJFJ) were obtained. Their lipid-soluble components were then analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology and principal component analysis (PCA).

Results: GC-MS results showed that there were 26, 24, 27, 31 and 32 types of chemical components in CTFJ-Q, CTFJ-H, XJFJ, MJFJ and JMJFJ, respectively. Furthermore, PCA revealed that samples obtained using fermentation with pure cultures of the three microorganisms had unique chemical components.

Conclusion: These results suggest that the microorganisms used for fermentation greatly influence the lipid-soluble components of BXQ. This finding is considered beneficial for the optimization of BXQ fermentation process.
Synthesis and cytotoxicity studies on new pyrazolecontaining oxime ester derivatives
Authors: Karakurt Arzu , Bozbey Irem , Uslu Harun , Sari Suat , Özdemir Zeynep , Şalva Emine
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To synthesize a series of new 1-(2-naphthyl)-2-(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)ethanone oxime ester derivatives (5-12) with potential anticancer properties, and to determine their cytotoxic effects in mouse fibroblast and human neuroblastoma cell lines.

Methods: The title compounds were obtained through sodium salt reaction of 1-(naphthalene-2-yl)-2- (1H-pyrazol-1-yl)etanone oxime (4) with various acyl chlorides. The cytotoxic effects were evaluated by MTS colorimetric assay, while physicochemical descriptors were calculated using QikProp software.

Results: Most of the compounds showed approximately 50 – 60 % inhibition against SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells at 100 μM. Of these, compound 7a was the most active combination with an IC50 value of 85.94 µM. The toxic effect of the compounds on mouse fibroblast cell line was insignificant (p < 0.05) even when the dose was increased. The calculated physicochemical properties of the compounds were within drug-like chemical space.

Conclusion: The synthesized oxime ester derivatives with pyrazole ring exhibit selective toxicity to neuroblastoma cells without affecting healthy mouse fibroblast cells. The compounds proved to be druglike while their pharmacokinetic features were also encouraging, and were in line with in silico predictions.
Evaluation of pharmacy practice regulations in Nigeria: The pharmaceutical inspectors’ perspective
Authors: Oseni Yejide Olukemi
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To evaluate pharmacy practice laws and regulations in Nigeria and recommend ways to overcome the challenges facing its implementation.

Methods: Semi-structured questionnaire of 19 questions was administered to pharmaceutical inspectors of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) to assess pharmacy practice laws and regulations in terms of its mandate, the challenges in implementation and recommendations for amendment for legislative attention. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics.

Results: Respondents (87.5%) were not satisfied with the existing laws and regulations and 56.3% agreed that they were inadequate to regulate the practice of pharmacy profession in Nigeria. Some respondents (37.5%) agreed that the laws and regulations were not specific on many issues that require regulation and enforcement while all of them (100%) agreed that the laws did not adequately capture offences and penalties for offenders. Half of the respondents (50%) were of the opinion that the name of the regulatory body poses a limitation to the regulation of its sub-cadre while 43.8% agreed that consistent court injunctions and litigation that occurred had hampered regulation of pharmacy practice as a whole.

Conclusion: The existing laws and regulations are inadequate to regulate the current pharmacy practice in Nigeria. Need for speedy review in order to meet up with the current reality in practice, wide publicity, increase manpower, adequate funding and strong legal backing of PCN activities were recommended.
Alendronate blocks human cholangiocarcinoma cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Buranrat Benjaporn , Prawan Auemduan , Senggunprai Laddawan , Kukongviriyapan Veerapol
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To explore the effect of alendronate on cell death and migration of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).

Methods: Migration and cell death of CCA cells were determined using sulforhodamine B (SRB), colony formation, wound healing, and gelatin zymography assays. The mechanism of action of alendronate was studied with reverse-transcriptase polymerase reaction (RT-PCR) for gene expression and by Western blotting analysis for protein expression.

Results: Alendronate stimulated KKU-100 cell death in dose- and time-dependent manner, with low IC50 value, and significantly inhbited colony formation at doses of 5 - 100 µM. Moreover, alendronate at doses of 250 - 1000 µM significantly stimulated CCA apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and enhanced caspase 3 activity at a dose of 1000 µM. Moreover, at a dose of 250 µM, it significantly inhibited cell growth through induction of caspase 3 and p53, and reduction of protein expression levels of NF-ĸB. Furthemore, alendronate altered mevalonate (MVA) pathway via downregulation of Rac1 protein expression. In contrast, it significantly inhibited CCA cell migration, and reduced MMP 2 and MMP 9 levels at doses of 25 - 100 µM.

Conclusion: Alendronate may be useful as a novel drug for prevention and chemotherapy of CCA.
Bexarotene enhances heart structure and function in diabetic rats by inhibiting ventricular remodeling and cardiomyocyte apoptosis
Authors: Ma Ying , Li Yunfeng , Ren Yongqiang , Guo Xi
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the influence of bexarotene (Bex) on cardiac structure and function in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes mellitus (DM) rats, and the mechanism of action involved.

Methods: Four groups of Sprague Dawley rats (n = 40) were used: normal control, DM, DM+ Bex (10 mg/kg/day), and DM+ Bex (20 mg/kg/day) (n = 10). The DM rat model was established by intraperitoneal injection of STZ. Cardiac structure and function of rats were determined and compared. Whole heart and left ventricle were weighed. The protein expressions of Bcl2 and Bax in rat myocardial tissue were determined using Western blotting.

Results: Compared to control group, there was significant reduction in the levels of IVSd (inlet ventricular septal defect) and LVPWd (left ventricle posterior wall in diastole) in DM group, but significant increase in these parameters in DM +Bex (20 mg/kg/day) group, relative to DM-treated rats (p < 0.05). Moreover, there were higher expression levels of Bcl2 and Bax in DM group, when compared with normal control, but Bcl2/Bax ratio was significantly lower (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Bcl2 and Bax levels in DM + Bex (20 mg/kg/day) group were significantly lower than those in DM group, while Bcl2/Bax ratio increased significantly (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Bexarotene improves the cardiac structure of DM rats by lowering blood glucose, and by inhibiting ventricular remodeling and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. These findings may be beneficial in the development of new anti-DM drugs.
Therapeutic effects of combined meloxicam and glucosamine sulfate treatment on patients with osteoarthritis, and its effect on serum CTX-Ⅰ, CTX-Ⅱ, COMP and MMP-3
Authors: Zhijun Lu , Rongchun Chen , Feixiang Lin , Yaohong Wu , Ning Liu , Shufang Zhang , Mingliang Zhong , Hongfa Zhong
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To study the therapeutic influence of meloxicam-glucosamine sulfate combination in patients with osteoarthritis and their effect on serum CTX-I, CTX-II, COMP and MMP-3.

Methods: A total of 88 patients with osteoarthritis were assigned to control (n = 44) and treatment groups (n = 44), using the random number table method. Control group was given 7.5 mg of meloxicam, while treatment group received 0.5 g of glucosamine sulfate capsule in addition to meloxicam. Both groups were treated continuously for 8 weeks. Serum levels of C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I), C-terminal telopeptide of type II collagen (CTX-II), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) were compared for the two groups after treatment.

Results: Lysholm score significantly increased in the two groups after treatment. Serum CTX-I, CTX-II, COMP and MMP-3 in the two groups were significantly lower than before treatment, but the reductions were more pronounced in the treatment group (p < 0.05). During treatment, mild vomiting and pruritus of the skin appeared in both groups, but these were relieved after symptomatic treatment without any serious adverse reactions.

Conclusion: Treatment with a combination of meloxicam and glucosamine sulfate produces significant beneficial effects in patients with osteoarthritis by reduction of clinical symptoms, pain relief and reduction of serum CTX-I, CTX-II, MMP-3 and COMP.
Curcumin inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition in colorectal cancer cells by regulating miR-206/SNAI2 pathway
Authors: Zhao Pan , Zhang Chunjie , Xie Dafei , Pei Maowei
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To examine the effects of curcumin on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) via regulation of miR-206 and SNAI2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Relationship between SNAI2 and miR-206 and the effects of curcumin on related mechanisms were also identified.

Methods: Transwell assays were used to analyze cellular migration and invasion. Genes associated with changes in protein and mRNA expression were evaluated by western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription PCR analyses, respectively. The relationship between SNAI2 and miR-206 was determined using a dual luciferase assay.

Results: Curcumin inhibited cell metastasis, upregulated miR-206 expression, and decreased SNAI2 levels. Furthermore, miR-206 directly targeted SNAI2 and inhibited EMT via downregulation of SNAI2 expression. Curcumin inhibited EMT in CRC cells by upregulating miR-206.

Conclusion: This study, for the first time, discovered the role of curcumin on epithelial-mesenchymal transition process in colorectal cancer cells by modulating miR-206/SNAI2 axis. These findings suggest that curcumin may be useful as a novel therapeutic agent to inhibit the metastasis of CRC.