bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cumul des mandats : un débat nécessaire !
Authors: Marseille Hervé
Published: April 2023

La réflexion autour du cumul des mandats a été relancée à l’initiative du groupe parlementaire Union centriste au Sénat avec l’adoption, en 2021, de la proposition de loi organique d’Hervé Marseille. Elle vise à rétablir la possibilité de cumuler un mandat de parlementaire avec le mandat de maire d’une commune ou de président d’une intercommunalité de moins de 10 000 habitants. Au moment où le président de la République souhaite créer une commission transpartisane pour rénover nos institutions, un débat s’impose aussi concernant le cumul des mandats, pour rapprocher les parlementaires de leurs territoires.
L’efficacité de l’action de proximité au service des citoyens
Authors: Lisnard David
Published: April 2023

Et si la décentralisation et la déconcentration étaient la solution pour renouer avec l’efficacité et le sens de l’action publique ? Gilets jaunes, montée de l’abstention, hausse des violences envers les élus : nombreuses sont les illustrations contemporaines de la défiance croissante des citoyens envers la puissance publique. Cette crise civique, alimentée par près de quinze ans de recentralisation des décisions, trouverait une réponse dans la proximité. Gage d’efficacité de l’action publique, d’innovation et de sens, la proximité implique davantage de décentralisation et une meilleure déconcentration, tel que le propose l’AMF. Les maires ont besoin de préfets et sous-préfets dotés de moyens humains, légitimés dans leur autorité et qui parlent d’une seule voix. L’AMF plaide pour un renouvellement du travail maire/préfet et souhaite qu’advienne une relation basée sur la confiance et la responsabilité, seule à même d’assurer l’efficacité de l’action de proximité tout en régénérant l’État central.
Bourges candidate Capitale européenne de la Culture en 2028 ? Promouvoir les territoires de proximité
Authors: Galut Yann
Published: April 2023

Bourges est candidate pour être Capitale européenne de la Culture en 2028. La Ville de Bourges souhaite avec cette candidature défendre les villes petites et moyennes dites “à taille humaine”, alors qu’elles subissent depuis de nombreuses années un récit majoritairement péjoratif. Ce changement de paradigme passe avant tout par un narratif positif autour des territoires d’avenir qui rassemblent les villes moyennes et la ruralité environnante et qui proposent un rapport différencié à la vie et au temps. Les territoires de proximité comme Bourges sont la colonne vertébrale de l’Union européenne. Bourges 2028 a construit un projet authentique qui répond aux défis de mobilités, de l’impact carbone de la construction de nouvelles infrastructures, des droits sociaux des artistes et des auteurs en Europe, de la participation des citoyens dans la programmation artistique de la ville. Ce sont autant de réflexions qui permettront de prototyper la ville de demain.
Débat public : concilier proximité et intérêt général
Authors: Jouanno Chantal
Published: April 2023

Débattre de la conciliation entre global et local, intérêt général et intérêt particulier, c’est le cœur de la mission de la Commission nationale du débat public. Tous les projets soumis au processus de la démocratie participative posent cette question. Le défi n’est pas méthodologique. Il est dans la posture que les acteurs, et notamment les décideurs, adoptent quant à la légitimité de ces intérêts parfois contradictoires.
L’état de grâce du premier mois de cours de l’année scolaire : une incidence du rapport au savoir ?
Authors: Renauld Dominique
Published: April 2023

Cet article se propose d’examiner l’incidence du rapport au savoir d’une professeure de philosophie sur l’évocation de sa pratique professionnelle. Il est constitué de l’analyse d’un entretien clinique à visée de recherche issu d’une thèse de doctorat en sciences de l’éducation d’orientation psychanalytique consacrée à l’enseignement de la philosophie au lycée. Si, depuis la récente réforme du baccalauréat, la philosophie peut être désormais abordée en partie en classe de première, à travers un enseignement optionnel d’humanités, toutefois, à la différence de nombreuses disciplines dont l’apprentissage débute très tôt dans une scolarité, c’est en terminale que les élèves des lycées en découvrent les rudiments. Que peut donc ressentir un enseignant de cette discipline lors de ce premier mois de cours de l’année scolaire et quelle part psychique inconsciente son rapport au savoir peut-il prendre dans l’évocation de cette période ?
Rapport au savoir : ratage du processus de subjectivation en formation soins infirmiers
Authors: Merniz Nora
Published: April 2023

Depuis la mise en œuvre d’une gestion libérale associée à un néo management des systèmes de soins, les pratiques soignantes s’éloignent sensiblement des conceptions de soins fondées sur le care. Sa pratique enseignante en IFSI a conduit l’auteure à rencontrer un fait de « plagiat » auquel se sont livrés deux étudiants. C’est de sa place de chercheuse en immersion au sein de cet institut qu’elle s’est sentie interpellée : cet acte serait-il un des effets de l’alternance de la formation ? Dans cet article, lequel met en question le rapport des étudiants au savoir, l’auteure propose deux interprétations de cet acte transgressif en prenant appui sur les concepts psychanalytiques d’identification et de Verleugnung. La discussion permet de mettre particulièrement en exergue comment le rapport au savoir de chaque étudiant est indissociablement lié au malentendu nodal de la culture hospitalière et de la formation, et comment leurs rapports au savoir interrogent leurs désirs professionnels et leurs identités de soignants.
Proposition de points de repères méthodologiques pour un entretien clinique de recherche d’orientation psychanalytique
Authors: Chaussecourte Philippe
Published: April 2023

Il s’agit dans ce texte d’expliciter très concrètement la réalisation d’un entretien clinique de recherche dans le cadre d’une approche clinique d’orientation psychanalytique en Éducation et Formation. Il est organisé chronologiquement par rapport à l’exécution d’un tel entretien : ce à quoi il faut penser en amont de l’entretien, puis au moment de la conduite de l’entretien lui-même et enfin, comment on peut organiser le matériel récolté et comment il peut être analysé.
Annuaire de droit de l'Union européenne
Authors: Ziller Jacques
Published: April 2023

Les procédures de décision de l’Union européenne et nombre de ses institutions, organes et organismes fonctionnent selon le principe de dédoublement fonctionnel (d’après le concept de Georges Scelle) des titulaires et agents du pouvoir exécutif des États membres, qui agissent en tant qu’organes des États et, en même temps, de l’Union. L’UE représente une forme de fédéralisme d’exécution proche de celui que connaît l’Allemagne, avec tous les problèmes dus à un système politique entrelacé (la Politikverflechtung de Fritz W. Scharpf). Le développement de l’intégration européenne a renforcé les exécutifs nationaux par rapport aux parlements et aux autorités locales et régionales. Mais ce renforcement s’est accompagné d’un brouillage des lignes de reddition des comptes, qui complique la mise en œuvre de la responsabilité de l’exécutif.
Pourquoi respectons-nous les directives sanitaires en période de Covid-19 ? La distance perçue à l’égard de la maladie, une nouvelle grille de lecture
Authors: Cottet Patrice , Ferrandi Jean-Marc , Lichtlé Marie-Christine , Plichon Véronique
Published: April 2023

Cette recherche propose de comprendre le rôle de la distance psychologique à l’égard de la Covid-19 sur l’attitude et le respect des consignes sanitaires avant et pendant la période de confinement. Pour cela, 5 800 personnes ont été interrogées le 15 mars 2020 et pendant le premier confinement. Nous montrons la relation complexe entre la distance perçue envers la maladie, l’attitude et le comportement des Français en nous inscrivant dans une perspective longitudinale et en appréhendant la distance de manière relative et absolue.
Outils numériques et confinement en temps de pandémie COVID-19
Authors: Gauci Jean-Luc , Les équipes des services de l’ESMPI
Published: April 2023

Les confinements liés à la pandémie récente ont mobilisé les équipes soignantes. Au centre de leurs préoccupations, le maintien nécessaire du lien avec leurs patients. Elles ont dû alors en appeler à une créativité nouvelle bien souvent centrée sur l’utilisation de moyens de communication virtuelle liés aux technologies numériques. L’article relate l’expérience des professionnels travaillant dans des structures de la MGEN durant ces moments particuliers. Ils en tirent des conséquences pour l’avenir.
Handicap psychique et fracture numérique. Quelles solutions pour favoriser l’inclusion sociale ?
Authors: Soto Stéphanie , col
Published: April 2023

Portés par une réflexion collective du Comité Local de Santé Mentale (CLSM), les professionnel(le)s de l’antenne de Pézenas du SAVS de l’Association AVH, ont réfléchi à l’impact de la fracture numérique sur le public accompagné 1 . Ils proposent quelques pistes d’actions concrètes afin d’améliorer l’accès des usagers à ces pratiques et, partant, de leur permettre un meilleur pouvoir d’agir en vue de construire leur propre vie en diminuant leur dépendance vis-à-vis de leurs aidants.
La fonction thérapeutique du numérique dans les soins pour les personnes âgées
Authors: Asvazadourian Renald
Published: April 2023

L’hôpital de jour « Espace Phare » de l’Association Les Ailes Déployées accueille des personnes âgées souffrant de troubles psychiatriques. Ces patients sont doublement pénalisés, par leur âge et par leur handicap psychique. L’utilisation du numérique dans la vie quotidienne et dans différents ateliers, en réduisant la fracture numérique, contribue à une meilleure insertion dans leur environnement amical et social, et renouvelle et renforce les échanges intra familiaux, particulièrement trans-générationnels. D’autre part, certains dispositifs (ex : « Discord ») permettent à des patients qui ne peuvent pas se déplacer de rester dans un lien actif avec ce centre d’échange et de communication qu’est l’Espace Phare, que leur mobilité soit affectée par des problèmes physiques ou liée à leur pathologie psychique.
Optimized LSTM based on improved whale algorithm for surface subsidence deformation prediction
Authors: Wang Ju , Zhang Leifeng , Yang Sanqiang , Lian Shaoning , Wang Peng , Yu Lei , Yang Zhenyu
Published: April 2023

In order to effectively control and predict the settlement deformation of the surrounding ground surface caused by deep foundation excavation, the deep foundation pit project of Baoding City Automobile Technology Industrial Park is explored as an example. The initial population approach of the whale algorithm (WOA) is optimized using Cubic mapping, while the weights of the shrinkage envelope mechanism are adjusted to avoid the algorithm falling into local minima, the improved whale algorithm (IWOA) is proposed. Meanwhile, 10 benchmark test functions are selected to simulate the performance of IWOA, and the advantages of IWOA in learning efficiency and convergence speed are verified. The IWOA-LSTM deep foundation excavation deformation prediction model is established by optimizing the input weights and hidden layer thresholds in the deep long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network using the improved whale algorithm. The IWOA-LSTM prediction model is compared with LSTM, WOA-optimized LSTM (WOA-LSTM) and traditional machine learning, the results show that the final prediction score of the IWOA-LSTM prediction model is higher than the score of other models, and the prediction accuracy is better than that of traditional machine learning.
A linearly convergent self-adaptive gradient projection algorithm for sparse signal reconstruction in compressive sensing
Authors: Wang Hengdi , Du Jiakang , Su Honglei , Sun Hongchun
Published: April 2023

For sparse signal reconstruction (SSR) problem in compressive sensing (CS), by the splitting technique, we first transform it into a continuously differentiable convex optimization problem, and then a new self-adaptive gradient projection algorithm is proposed to solve the SSR problem, which has fast solving speed and pinpoint accuracy when the dimension increases. Global convergence of the proposed algorithm is established in detail. Without any assumptions, we establish global $ R- $linear convergence rate of the proposed algorithm, which is a new result for constrained convex (rather than strictly convex) quadratic programming problem. Furthermore, we can also obtain an approximate optimal solution in a finite number of iterations. Some numerical experiments are made on the sparse signal recovery and image restoration to exhibit the efficiency of the proposed algorithm. Compared with the state-of-the-art algorithms in SSR problem, the proposed algorithm is more accurate and efficient.
Dynamic modeling and analysis of Hepatitis B epidemic with general incidence
Authors: Xue Tingting , Zhang Long , Fan Xiaolin
Published: April 2023

New stochastic and deterministic Hepatitis B epidemic models with general incidence are established to study the dynamics of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) epidemic transmission. Optimal control strategies are developed to control the spread of HBV in the population. In this regard, we first calculate the basic reproduction number and the equilibrium points of the deterministic Hepatitis B model. And then the local asymptotic stability at the equilibrium point is studied. Secondly, the basic reproduction number of the stochastic Hepatitis B model is calculated. Appropriate Lyapunov functions are constructed, and the unique global positive solution of the stochastic model is verified by Itô formula. By applying a series of stochastic inequalities and strong number theorems, the moment exponential stability, the extinction and persistence of HBV at the equilibrium point are obtained. Finally, using the optimal control theory, the optimal control strategy to eliminate the spread of HBV is developed. To reduce Hepatitis B infection rates and to promote vaccination rates, three control variables are used, for instance, isolation of patients, treatment of patients, and vaccine inoculation. For the purpose of verifying the rationality of our main theoretical conclusions, the Runge-Kutta method is applied to numerical simulation.
Physical-and-chemical processes at the interfaces of (Cu–Ni–Mn–Fe)/ (W–C) composites
Authors: Sukhova Olena V.
Published: April 2023

The spontaneous infiltration method for fabricating composites was used, in which molten Cu–Ni–Mn–Fe binders penetrated W–C filler particles due to capillary forces. The metal matrix composites thus obtained were characterized for phase composition, microstructure, porosity and microhardness. All composites were studied in their as-prepared condition with further annealing at 900°С for 60 and 750 h. It was shown that the mechanism based on the dissolution/diffusion bonding of the particulate/matrix interface was in agreement with the results of this study. The interfacial reactions provided a driving force for wetting but did not give rise to unwanted phases that could degrade the properties of the composite materials. From the EDX measurements it was concluded that mainly Fe atoms diffused from the Cu–Ni–Mn–Fe binders into the WC phase of the eutectic (WC+W2C) filler. Dissolution of this phase resulted in the appearance of W2C layer at the interface. Annealing at 900°С significantly promoted the interfacial reaction especially during the first 60 h of heat treatment. The degree of the reaction between the molten Cu–Ni–Mn–Fe alloys and W–C particulate could be limited by controlling the iron content of the binders to obtain an optimal interface.
Using Smart Contracts in the Proposed Blockchain Framework for an Identity Management System Based on the Internet of Things
Authors: Alotaibi Sara Jeza
Published: April 2023

Blockchain technology has revolutionized various sectors such as trade finance, education, healthcare, the internet of things (IoT), and user identification with its groundbreaking potential. Its transformative influence on privacy, data integrity, and transactional reliability has significantly enhanced user authentication sharing across industries. Consequently, there is a pressing demand for a robust framework capable of providing seamless authentication between devices, cloud servers, and IoT base stations. This article presents into the critical need for such a framework, meticulously evaluating its feasibility in light of the scarce existing solutions that meet industry guidelines. The proposed framework reconciles two contrasting perspectives, thoroughly examining 11 distinct factors and highlighting key features uncovered through rigorous research. The findings have implications for the future of secure authentication.
Target Detection for Motion Images Using the Improved YOLO Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Tian
Published: April 2023

The images of motion states are time-varying, and when actually detecting their internal motion targets, the formed detection frames overlap, resulting in small confidence values for the detection frames and low accuracy of the detection results. To address this problem, the authors propose a target detection for motion image using the improved YOLO algorithm. First, the YOLO algorithm is improved using deformable convolution; the edge weights of the front and back views within the image are collated, and the motion image is segmented using the improved YOLO algorithm. Second, the structure formed by the initial convolution is used as the initial detection frame structure, the parallel cross-ratio value is set, the overlap generated by the detection frame is controlled, the parameters of the detection frame compression processing are output, the threshold trigger value relationship is constructed, and finally, the detection of the motion image target is realized. The results show that the target false detection rate of the proposed method is only about 15%. The detection a priori frame height value is 80 pixels, and the average detection time consumed is 6.8ms, which proves that the proposed algorithm can be widely used in motion image target detection to improve the detection level.
The Status Quo and Development Countermeasures of Venture Capital in the New Energy Economy Based on Big Data Analysis
Authors: Feng Nan , Wang Yuguang , Chen Zhiguo , Song Tingting
Published: April 2023

The advent of the era of big data not only enables us to have more information that we can use, but also creates conditions for us to create and disseminate information in a timely manner. This article systematically sorts out and analyzes the overall development and investment of new energy in China, as well as the current new energy incentive policies implemented, and points out the problems in the development of new energy. On this basis, the technical risks, policy risks, and market risks faced by this new energy investment are analyzed, and a risk evaluation model based on DHGF and entropy technology is established. It can help investors identify potential investment opportunities. Investors can use the option of investment projects granted by real options to reduce the impact of uncertainty, thereby increasing the value of the company, and making more scientific and reasonable investment decisions. The experimental results of this article show that since 2009, stock market financing has become a financing channel favored by developers.
Effect of Addition Amount of Surface Treated Wood Flour on Moisture Absorption Property of Green Composite
Authors: Katogi Hideaki
Published: April 2023

This study was examined the moisture absorption property of green composite using surface treated wood flour for sustainable development goals (SDGs) of product. Constituent materials of green composite were Japanese cedar flour and poly (lactic acid). The lumber of Japanese cedar was cut by hand saw for wood flour. The surface treatment of wood flour was conducted by stone mill. The number of cycle was 400 cycles. The maximum addition amount of wood flour was 20wt%. Molding method of green composite was vacuum compressive method. The moisture absorption test of green composite was conducted by using KNO3 solution. The maximum test time was four weeks (672 hours). The environmental temperature was room temperature. The humidity was 93%. As a result, following conclusions were obtained. In case of test time 672 hours, coefficient of moisture absorptions of green composites using non and surface treated wood flour 1.0wt.% were similar to that of poly (lactic acid). But, the coefficient of moisture absorption of green composite using surface treated Japanese cedar flour 20wt.% was larger than that of green composite using non-treated Japanese cedar flour 20wt.%. The water penetration probably occurred at interface between Japanese cedar flour and matrix. Therefore, the moisture absorption property of green composite using surface treated Japanese cedar flour 20wt% was affected by water penetration at interface between Japanese cedar flour and matrix.
Observation of Mode I Crack Growth Behavior in 4.762 mm Diameter-Silicon Nitride Ball under Compressive-Tensile Cyclic Loadings
Authors: Hayashi Ryota , Hobo Yasuharu , Mizobe Koshiro , Matsueda Takahiro , Kida Katsuyuki
Published: April 2023

Cyclic pressure fatigue tests of silicon nitride ball were performed in two phases. In the first phase, compressive and tensile stresses were applied to two cracks on the ball surface, respectively. In the second phase, tensile stress was applied to the crack that was applied to compressive stress in the first phase to grow. The effect of cyclic compressive stress on crack growth was investigated through this series of tests. The results are as follows. The ball did not fracture in either Phase 1 or Phase 2 tests. The crack did not propagate when the maximum compressive load of approximately 5 kN was repeatedly applied across the crack surface. In addition, the crack applied with compressive stress before tensile stress, and the crack which was not, both grew to about 520 μm during N ranging from 0 to 1.2×107 fatigue cycles. The crack applied with compressive stress before tensile stress at fatigue cycles N = 103 grew about 170 μm longer than the crack to which stress was not applied.
Effect of Silica/M-BNT/BNT Ternary Filler Loading on the Curing Properties of Natural Rubber Vulcanizates
Authors: Garing Clare L. , Ali Mark Rigel R. , Pajarito Bryan B.
Published: April 2023

The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of varied proportions of silica/M-BNT/BNT on the curing properties of natural rubber (NR) composites. Thirteen ternary-filled NR composites and a control sample were prepared in this study based on a third degree – simplex lattice mixture design of experiment. It was observed that high loading of silica has a retarding effect on vulcanization rate due to the presence of silanol groups on its surface. Replacement of silica with BNT led to a big reduction in scorch time and increase in vulcanization rate due to the presence of metallic oxides acting as co-activators. The addition of the organoclay M-BNT to silica and BNT resulted to shorter scorch time, an increase in vulcanization rate, and a decrease in minimum and maximum torques improving the processability of the rubber composite. The kinetic model was able to demonstrate the vulcanization behavior of the rubber composites as supported by the very high coefficient of determination (R2) values for all samples. The generated contour plots for maximum torque (MH), minimum torque (ML), scorch time (tS1), cure rate index (CRI), induction time (ti) and rate constant (k1) were able to display the trends observed in the experimental values.
A Physics-Based Investigation of Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness
Authors:   Georgia Institute of Technology, Zanella Paola ,   FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center, Johnson Charles , Mavris Dimitri , Prasad J.V.R.
Published: April 2023

Loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE) has been recognized to be a major contributing factor in several helicopter accidents due to the loss of directional control. Flight tests have identified specific wind azimuth regions that may alter the angle and the speed of the airflow through the tail rotor leading to LTE. However, it has been noticed that different definitions of this phenomenon exist in the aviation community. The somewhat imprecise representation of LTE in some flight training simulators has led to its low awareness, placing pilots at a much higher risk for potential accidents. In order to improve the understanding of this phenomenon, a physics-based investigation of the different LTE flight characteristics is performed. The results from this investigation are expected to contribute towards an improvement in simulator training of LTE events, leading to a reduction in LTE related accidents.
Deep Ensemble for Rotorcraft Attitude Prediction
Authors:   Rowan University, Khan Hikmat ,   Federal Aviation Administration, Johnson Charles , Bouaynaya Nidhal , Rasool Ghulam , Thompson Lacey , Travis Tyler
Published: April 2023

Historically, the rotorcraft community has experienced a higher fatal accident rate than other aviation segments, including commercial and general aviation. To date, traditional methods applied to reduce incident rates have not proven hugely successful for the rotorcraft community. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and the application of these technologies in different areas of our lives are both intriguing and encouraging. When developed appropriately for the aviation domain, AI techniques may provide an opportunity to help design systems that can address rotorcraft safety challenges. Our recent work demonstrated that AI algorithms could use video data from onboard cameras and correctly identify different flight parameters from cockpit gauges, e.g., indicated airspeed. These AI-based techniques provide a potentially cost-effective solution, especially for small helicopter operators, to record the flight state information and perform post-flight analyses. We also showed that carefully designed and trained AI systems can accurately predict rotorcraft attitude (i.e., pitch and yaw) from outside scenes (images or video data). Ordinary offthe-shelf video cameras were installed inside the rotorcraft cockpit to record the outside scene, including the horizon. The AI algorithm was able to correctly identify rotorcraft attitude at an accuracy in the range of 80%. In this work, we combined five different onboard camera viewpoints to improve attitude prediction accuracy to 94%. Our current approach, which is referred to as ensembled prediction, significantly increased the reliability in the predicted attitude (i.e., pitch and yaw). For example, in some camera views, the horizon may be obstructed or not visible. The proposed ensemble method can combine visual details recorded from other cameras and predict the attitude with high reliability. In our setup, the five onboard camera views included pilot windshield, co-pilot windshield, pilot Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) display, co-pilot EFIS display, and the attitude indicator gauge. Using video data from each camera view, we trained a variety of convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which achieved prediction accuracy in the range of 79% to 90%. We subsequently ensembled the learned knowledge from all CNNs and achieved an ensembled accuracy of 93.3%. Our efforts could potentially provide a cost-effective means to supplement traditional Flight Data Recorders (FDR), a technology that to date has been challenging to incorporate into the fleets of most rotorcraft operators due to cost and resource constraints. Such cost-effective solutions can gradually increase the rotorcraft community's participation in various safety programs, enhancing safety and opening up helicopter flight data monitoring (HFDM) to historically underrepresented segments of the vertical flight community.
Hazard Analysis Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis for NASA Revolutionary Vertical Lift Technology Concept Vehicles
Authors:   The Boeing Co., Beiderman Allan , Darmstadt Patrick
Published: April 2023

The scope of this paper is an analysis of the safety and reliability of novel urban air mobility (UAM) propulsion systems. Their potential effect on and coupling of adjacent and related systems such as flight controls and thermal management has been examined at a functional level. Propulsion systems were developed for National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) concept aircraft to support the reliability and safety analysis. The results of the safety and reliability analysis (on a representative UAM configuration, a quad-rotor (QR), is presented to guide industry on the effects of architecture and systems design on overall air vehicle safety. This will also inform the industry on various propulsion configurations and how they can be made to comply with certification requirements.
Efficacy of government laws to contain SARS-CoV-2 spread in Mozambique
Authors: Prista António
Published: April 2023

Background: The purpose of this research was to assess the relationship between infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) containment measures implemented in Mozambique and the spread of SARS-CoV-2 from March 17, 2020, to September 30, 2021.Materials and Methods: The number of SARS-CoV-2 tests conducted, the positivity rate for SARS-CoV-2, the daily hospitalization due to COVID-19, and the average number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 each day were all documented in a database, from which the positivity rate and weekly growth rate were calculated. Seven milestones were specified, each corresponding to a critical date in the legal measures linked to confinement and relaxation of measures. To compare SARS-CoV-2 data, three periods were created for each milestone: Period 1 = 15 days before the date of the decree; Period 2 = Date of the decree to the 15th day after; and Period 3 = from the 16th day to the 30th day of the decree date. ANOVA was used to compare the average values for each indicator between the three times for each milestone. Results: A comparison of all indicators in each milestone's three periods reveals no consistent significant impact of the measures, regardless of the tendency to lockdown or provide relief. Conclusion: No relationship was discovered between the legal measures for SARS-CoV-2 pandemic control and the positive rate and growth rates, as well as the number of hospitalized people. Because it was not feasible to determine the degree of efficacy of each specific measure, this conclusion is related to the measures as a whole.
The East African Community mobile laboratory network prepares for monkeypox outbreaks
Authors: Gehre Forian , Lagu Hakim Idris , Achol Emmanuel , Omari Neema , Ochido Grace , Shand Kerstin , Alvarado Andrea Molina , Ruge Gerd , Kezakarayagwa Eric , Kabatesi Francine , Ihorimbere Théogene , Nkeshimana Anatole , Roba Abdi , Ndia Millicent Nyakio , Githii Susan Mahuro , Kiiru John Ndemi , Samson Donald Duku , Nykwec Gwokpan Awin , Chot Moun Isaac Gatkuoth , Deng Lul Lojok , Kelly Maria Ezekiely , Mtesigwa Mkama Peter Bernard , Msigwa Felician L. , Magesa Alex , Pimundu Godfrey , Muyigi Tonny , Nabadda Susan Ndidde , Nzeyimana Eric , May Juergen , Affara Muna
Published: April 2023

In response to the largest recorded monkeypox virus outbreak outside of endemic Central and Western Africa, the East African Community (EAC), in cooperation with the Bernhard-Nocht- Institute for Tropical Medicine, coordinated an emergency monkeypox diagnostic training for the East African Region. As of June 2022, the Democratic Republic of Congo reported a steady increase of suspected monkeypox cases, increasing the risk of spill-over into the remaining six EAC Partner States. Within the existing EAC Mobile Laboratories project, laboratory experts of the National Public Health Laboratories of the remaining six EAC Partner States (Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan) participated in the workshop and were trained in the reception of suspect samples, DNA extraction and diagnosis using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The EAC region is now equipped with the tools to prepare and rapidly respond to any emerging monkeypox outbreak.
Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids among nursing students in clinical internship
Authors: El Bouazzi Omaima , Toujami Zainab , Sidi Mohamed Raoui , Benammi Dounia , Merabti Abdelilah , Didouh Mostafa , El Ouali Lalami Abdelhakim
Published: April 2023

Background. During their academic activities, nursing students are required to carry out clinical internships during which they can be exposed to contamination by bloodborne pathogens.Objective. The study was carried out to determine the prevalence and associated factors of occupational exposure to biological material potentially infected by blood in a population of nursing students.Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional design was used in this study and a self administered questionnaire was provided to students. The research work was conducted from February 20, 2022, to March 15, 2022. Results. The questionnaire was completed by 119 students. A total of 94 (78.99%) of the participants were female with a mean age of 20.46±1.16 years. 48 (40.34%) exposures were recorded with corresponding incidence rates of 0.4 exposures/person/year. With at least one accidental exposure to blood in 21 (43.75%) students. The OR analysis made by year of study showed that the ratio between the exposure risk was lower than 1 with P0.05. The comparison between the different nursing specialties showed a significant difference between the students of General Nurses and Family and Community Health Nurses. The variables associated with exposures to blood were: female sex and personal protective equipment.Conclusions. During their clinical training, nursing students face several types of risks including biological through blood. In order to prevent the occurrence of these incidents, the consequences of which can be fatal, it is necessary to invest in training sessions and our institute should set up a local management unit for following the exposed students.
Francophobia as an expression of Pan-Africanism in Francophone Africa: An exploration of the Cameroonian political and media discourse
Authors: Endong Floribert P.C.
Published: April 2023

There has over the decades been a recrudescence of francophobia in many francophone African countries. This has attracted the attention of scholars across the world and has fuelled a discourse which has myopically constructed francophone Africans’ francophobic sentiments either as a purely xenophobic movement or a nationalist feeling. Meanwhile, for many members of the African diasporas and intelligentsia, francophobia is essentially an expression of their pan-African convictions. In effect, for many francophone pan-African political activists, the act of fighting and mitigating neocolonialism in their countries is inextricably tantamount to exhibiting francophobic sentiments. Such an act is also tantamount to deploying various forms of animosity against France. This is so perhaps because France is arguably perceived as the most dominant neocolonial force in their countries. In this paper, this popular trend is illustrated with close respect to the Cameroonian experience. Using secondary sources and critical observations, the paper specifically looks at how various manifestations of French neocolonialism have given birth to waves of anti-French sentiments among the intelligentsia and in the media; and how this anti-French feeling is mostly expressed in the name of Pan-Africanism. The paper thus examines how Pan-Africanism has, to both the Cameroonian intelligentsia and the media, meant adopting a virulent anti-French discourse or rhetoric. In line with this central objective, the paper answers three principal research questions: what body of evidence proves that there is French neocolonialism in Cameroon? How has French neocolonialism engendered a virulent pan-African discourse that is basically anti-French? And how has this pan-African francophobic discourse been observed or manifested among the Cameroonian intelligentsia and in the country’s private media?
The role of artificial intelligence in integrated marketing communications: A case study of Jumia Online Ghana
Authors: Brobbey Edward E. , Ankrah Ebenezer , Kankam Philip K.
Published: April 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been observed as both a destructive and a transformative game changer in all human activities where it has been adopted. This study looked into the role of Artificial Intelligence in Integrated Marketing Communications, with Jumia Online Ghana as a case. Through the use of both quantitative and qualitative approaches, as well as convenience and purposive sampling techniques, the study obtained qualitative and quantitative data from IT staff and customers of Jumia Online Ghana. A total of 112 respondents participated in the study. The study revealed that Jumia Online Ghana boost their marketing communications; undertake marketing leads; and promote their contents and products through the use of Artificial Intelligence. The study recommends that the need exists for AIpowered contents of Jumia Online Ghana to be optimized for mobile devices. It has been established that the use of AI empowers marketing communications in order to reach wider markets.
The paradoxes of the remote – A valediction
Authors: Hooper Myrtle
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Synopsis on Cyberethics Behaviour: A Literature Review
Authors: Aderibigbe Nurudeen A.
Published: April 2023

This paper provides an overview of the empirical literature on cyberethics issues within an academic environment, specifically young adults’ behaviours in using cyber technology. While digital media is a part of the institutional and societal drive for informational inclusion and knowledge development, the ethical practices and behaviours among the users of cyber technology have raised questions on users’ awareness and understanding of the implications of ethical violations in cyberspace. Using technology might provide significant theoretical paradigms in understanding how digital media adoption and diffusion, driven by information technology, can vary globally. The study reviews the literature on the emergence of cyber technology ethics, individual characteristics, awareness level, challenges to undergraduates’ cyberethics behaviour, and the central role policy plays in strengthening or promoting ethical conduct in cyberspace. This paper provides current information for awareness of CE, teaching and research on information ethics and related domains.
Indigenous knowledge application in increasing food security: A measure to consider?
Authors: Masango Charles A. , Mbarika Victor W.
Published: April 2023

This article examines the role of indigenous knowledge (IK) in increasing food security. It questions whether IK can be regarded as inferior to increasing food security given that food scientists and technologists use scientific methods in increasing food security. The rationales for the examination stem from the notion that while IK has been recognised as one avenue for increasing food security, such knowledge is treated as inferior to modern measures or techniques. People who use IK are associated with poverty, backwardness and superstitions. Indigenous knowledge is often marginalised and given little attention in the mainstream studies, research and development institutions. Many professional experts tend to scoff or criticise such knowledge system, viewing them as nonsensical, superstitions, irrational and mythical. The article explores a theoretical research based on an extensive literature review for using IK in increasing food security and advances reasons why IK may or may not be regarded as inferior to increase food security. The theoretical research may be seen as a limitation in this topic, as an empirical research based on interview may have produced a better result. The article reveals that both modern technologies and IK play an important role in increasing food security. Following that IK as Intellectual Property (IP) is taking new significance in the search for answers to many of the world’s most vexing problems, the article proposes measures within Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in the form of patent and other approaches through which IK could be applied with other scientific methods to increase food security.
Standard Technique versus Rotational Technique of Insertion of Baska Mask®
Authors: Sheetal  , Jindal Seema , Sidhu Gurkaran Kaur , Jindal Swati , Kaur Sandeep
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims:

Baska Mask® is a new third-generation supraglottic airway device (SGAD). The placement of Baska Mask® using the standard technique causes posterior displacement of the tongue, leading to incorrect positioning and insertion failure. The rotation technique may alleviate this obstacle during insertion by decreasing resistance between the airway and tongue. The primary objective of this study was to compare the insertion time between the standard versus rotational technique of Baska Mask®, and the secondary outcome measures were ease of insertion, number of attempts and postoperative airway morbidity with both techniques.

Methods:

One hundred consenting adults of the American Society of Anaesthesiologists I-II, aged 20–65 years of either gender scheduled for a variety of surgical procedures under general anaesthesia in a tertiary care hospital (May 2019 to November 2020), were included in the study. The patients were randomly allocated to Group S and Group R using the standard and rotation techniques, respectively. All statistical analyses were done using the SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) software. The comparison of quantitative variables between the study groups was done using the Student's t-test and Mann–Whitney test. For comparing categorical data, the Chi-square χ
2 test was performed.

Results:

The mean insertion time was significantly higher with the standard compared to the rotation technique of Baska Mask (20.90 ± 3.13 vs. 14.84 ± 1.11 s, P = 0.000). Device insertion was easy in rotation compared to the standard technique (P = 0.031). The number of attempts required for insertion was more with the standard technique than with the rotation technique (P = 0.011).

Conclusion:

Although the standard technique of Baska Mask® remains the first choice, the rotational technique of Baska Mask® has a higher success of insertion with fewer complications than the standard technique; hence, it can be accepted as an alternative.
Comparison between Dexmedetomidine and Fentanyl on Intubating Condition to Facilitate Awake Oral Fibreoptic Intubation under Topical Anaesthesia – A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Panwar Vishnu , Krishnan Sushil , Sharma Anil Kumar
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims:

Awake fibreoptic intubation (AFOI) is the standard method of airway management in the anticipated difficult airway. While many drugs have been employed for sedation, there is no single drug that can be recommended as the drug of choice. Dexmedetomidine is characterised by effects of sedation, analgesia, amnesia and lack of respiratory depression. Hence, we hypothesised that dexmedetomidine should be suitable for AFOI and compared it to the control drug fentanyl. This study assesses the level of sedation and intubating conditions using dexmedetomidine or fentanyl during awake fibreoptic orotracheal intubation.

Methods:

Sixty adult patients, American Society of Anaesthesiology class I and II, who required orotracheal intubation during general anaesthesia with the normal airway were randomised to receive dexmedetomidine 0.6 μg/kg (Group A) or fentanyl 1.0 μg/kg (Group B) intravenous infusion for 10 min, after topical anaesthesia to the airway. A total of 60 patients were allocated, 30 patients in each group. The primary objective was to assess the intubating conditions with dexmedetomidine compared to fentanyl.

Results:

The intubation score for vocal cord movement (1.57 ± 0.68 in Group A vs 1.93 ± 0.75 in Group B) and cough (1.50 ± 0.78 in Group A vs 1.90 ± 0.72 in Group B), endoscopy score (2.17 ± 0.59 in Group A vs 2.47 ± 0.69 in Group B), sedation score (4.73 ± 0.5 in Group A vs 4.47 ± 0.57 in Group B) and patient satisfaction score (1.20 ± 0.41 in Group A vs 1.47 ± 0.68 in Group B) were statistically significant in patients receiving dexmedetomidine. During the procedure, there was a statistically and clinically significant increase in heart rate of 1.5% in Group A versus 22% in Group B, and an increase in mean arterial pressure of 1.95% in Group A versus and 10.27% in the Group B.

Conclusion:

Dexmedetomidine provided better intubation conditions than fentanyl, with greater haemodynamic stability, better sedation and greater patient satisfaction score compared to fentanyl during awake fibreoptic oral intubation.
Mechanotransduction of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Hemodynamic Implications
Authors: Kao Ting-Wei , Liu Yi-Shiuan , Yang Chih-Yu , Lee Oscar K
Published: April 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess the capacity for self-renewal and multipotency. The traditional approach to manipulating MSC's fate choice predominantly relies on biochemical stimulation. Accumulating evidence also suggests the role of physical input in MSCs differentiation. Therefore, investigating mechanotransduction at the molecular level and related to tissue-specific cell functions sheds light on the responses secondary to mechanical forces. In this review, a new frontier aiming to optimize the cultural parameters was illustrated, i.e. spatial boundary condition, which recapitulates in vivo physiology and facilitates the investigations of cellular behavior. The concept of mechanical memory was additionally addressed to appreciate how MSCs store imprints from previous culture niches. Besides, different types of forces as physical stimuli were of interest based on the association with the respective signaling pathways and the differentiation outcome. The downstream mechanoreceptors and their corresponding effects were further pinpointed. The cardiovascular system or immune system may share similar mechanisms of mechanosensing and mechanotransduction; for example, resident stem cells in a vascular wall and recruited MSCs in the bloodstream experience mechanical forces such as stretch and fluid shear stress. In addition, baroreceptors or mechanosensors of endothelial cells detect changes in blood flow, pass over signals induced by mechanical stimuli and eventually maintain arterial pressure at the physiological level. These mechanosensitive receptors transduce pressure variation and regulate endothelial barrier functions. The exact signal transduction is considered context dependent but still elusive. In this review, we summarized the current evidence of how mechanical stimuli impact MSCs commitment and the underlying mechanisms. Future perspectives are anticipated to focus on the application of cardiovascular bioengineering and regenerative medicine.