International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies, vol. 41 no. 1

The theme of the child in the work of Michel Tournier

Min, Liao — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Michel Tournier is one of the great figures of the contemporary French novel. The subject of the child runs through almost Tournier’s all works. Tournier makes the child a marvelous, triumphant being. This ideal model of the child, which is inspired by Rousseau’s conception, designates childhood as a fullness of being and embodies an original innocence. This conception of the child is also well developed in eastern philosophy, which considers the child as a representation of strong vitality, spiritual simplicity, the desire for ignorance, the ideal paradigm of life. For the characters in Tournier’s works, the state of childhood is an ideal way of life and a fulfillment of being; they dream of returning to this state of childlike innocence in order to attain an ideal of happiness.

Computerization of the water distribution and consumption monitoring system at REGIDESO in the city of Kolwezi

KANDURI TRINULI, Antonio — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The distribution of water and the billing of user consumption remain a major difficulty that the Régie de Distribution d’Eau of the Democratic Republic of Congo, REGIDESO in acronym, has been trying to overcome for several years, because this does not allow the Congolese State to maximize revenue on the one hand, and on the other hand, users are victims of over-invoicing, classified in the category of flat-rate invoicing, given that REGIDESO has no effective means of management of water distribution and users. In the context of the province of Lualaba, in the city of Kolwezi which presents a fast demographic growth, and which knows many problems related to the management of water consumption, this study relates to the installation of a system of distribution and monitoring of water consumption using Internet of Things sensors to control and manage installations remotely.

Impact of peasant agriculture in the development of the territory of Kimvula (Kongo Central, Democratic Republic of the Congo)

Lugangu, Marie Honorine — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

This study on the impact of agriculture was carried out in the province of central Kongo, precisely in the territory of Kimvula. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate tha the lack of supervision of peasants, the poor condition of the roads means that the vehicles of traders no longer arrived at Kimvula, this handicaps the development of peasant agriculture in the area under study. To do this, we have used the following methods and techniques: analytical, inductive ant interview survey. The results showed that the territory of Kimvula has an agriculture that does not have a positive impact on economic development due to low production. Indeed, we note that agricultural production in 2020 and 2022 has either deteriorated or fallen to worrying proportions. This situation has negatively influenced the standard of living of the population.This means that agricultural production in Kimvula has not been able to feed its population and therefore ensure its own food security. Mainly due to low production. The majority of Kimvula households have low incomes and therefore low purchasing power and uncomfortable living conditions.

Knowledge stock-taking of soybean agri-food processing related innovations in Benin: Case studies in Central Benin between 1980 and 2021

Kouevi, Teko Augustin — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Innovation and its dynamics are topics rarely discussed in the field of agri-food processing and in relation to soybean. This article fills this gap by taking stock of the dynamics of innovation in soybean processing in central Benin which is an area of concentration of soybean-related activities. Data required were collected with a questionnaire and interview and observation guides from women processors and resource persons, of varying ages and seniority in the field of soybean agri-food processing. The data were qualitatively and quantitatively analysed to take stock of the innovations that occurred. The study results highlight innovations related to the variety of soybeans used which moved from exclusive use of the local variety called klomikouin to the concomitant use of Klomikouin and the improved variety called TGX. Product and process innovations recorded increased from 13 between 1980 and 2013 to 26 over the period of 1980 to 2020. In total, 0.5 to 2 product innovations were recorded per year along the food processing chain, and 80% of them came from intervention organisations, which highlights the weakness of the innovation potential of the women processors alone. The article suggests that an appropriate system for promoting both the innovation potential of processors and those of intervention organisations could qualitatively and quantitatively diversify and strengthen innovations relating to soybeans.

Assessing variation of rabies antibody titers in domestic cats in the context of pet travel from Morocco

Ziani, Saloua — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Rabies is a deadly disease that can spread between mammals. Morocco is a rabies-endemic country. To maintain rabies-free status, some countries require rabies antibody titration tests. This titration is subject to variation. This retrospective study was conducted to determine the factors associated with humoral response variation in rabies-vaccinated domestic cats in the context of pet movements. Factors such as the animal’s sex, its age, the laboratory, the test used (FAVN or RFFIT), the time between vaccination and rabies titration sampling, and the number of vaccinations were taken into account. Information on 959 cats was collected, and structural modeling utilizing logistic multinomial regression was used. The results showed that 57.1% of the cats had a titer exceeding 10 IU/ml, 32.1% had a moderate response (3

Mapping the Collaboration Network in Pastoralism Research: A Coauthorship Analysis-based Approach

Sieza, Yssouf — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Research on pastoralism has been the subject of scientific publications. This article examines collaborative research patterns in the field of pastoralism. The study is based on a bibliographic analysis of 855 publications extracted from the Lens.org database, covering the period from 1905 to 2023. Trend and network analyses were employed within this study. The results highlight an increase in the number of publications over the years, covering diverse themes. Furthermore, recent years have shown a notable rise in the number of publications, indicating an intensification of publishing activity in the pastoralism domain. Collaborative efforts, in terms of coauthors, have mainly centered around authors affiliated with the same scientific and research institution, or operating within closely related or similar scientific disciplines. These findings suggest the necessity of actively encouraging interdisciplinary research collaborations, supported by funding organizations, in order to effectively address challenges related to pastoralism in a sustainable manner. Given the cross-border nature of pastoralism, promoting collaboration among researchers sharing the same borders would contribute to better addressing emerging themes in this development field.

Some techniques for separating discrete and random components

Mbourou, Donald Romarick Rotimbo — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

In many fields, different elements (mechanical, electronic, electromechanical, etc.) come into play independently to ensure the overall operation of devices/machines: electrical cables, gears, bearings, pulleys, etc. In maintenance operations, the signals from these different elements in operation are often a mixture of multiple contributions, the level of complexity of which may vary, for example, depending on the measurement point, during the data acquisition stage. There may be a number of reasons for wanting to access only the signal from a particular component (e.g., to monitor service life, diagnose the faulty part and/or predict the time remaining before a serious breakdown), rather than all the contributions measured. It is therefore essential to have a range of tools to enable us to remove harmful signals (sometimes called noise). This article presents some techniques for separating discrete and random components.

Evaluation of contamination by heavy metals in soils collected from four public landfills in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo

Bardoul, Engambé Christ — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

This study evaluates the contamination by heavy metals of the grounds taken in four of the public landfills in the districts of Brazzaville. Soil samples taken at a depth of 25 cm first underwent some physical treatment (drying, sieving and grinding) before undergoing physicochemical analyzes and determination of heavy metals by ICP-OES. Physicochemical analyzes showed that Landfill soils are heavily contaminated with heavy metals: lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg) and zinc (Zn). The highest levels of these heavy metals are as follows: lead (220 mg/kg) in the soils of the Tsiémé landfill; chromium (13000 mg/kg), cobalt (160 mg/kg), nickel (7500 mg/kg) and zinc (12000 mg/kg) in the soils of the Diata landfill and mercury (0.66 mg/kg) in the soils of the Moukondo landfill. Mercury is also present in these four landfills but in small quantities.

Adsorption of a basic dye on a fixed bed column of clay beads

Baba, Soro Donafologo — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Effluents from the textile industry and artisanal dyeing contaminate water resources. The objective of this work is to eliminate the dye safranin from the aqueous medium by adsorption on natural materials. The clay used comes from Daloa in the center-west of Côte d’Ivoire. It is ground and then dry sieved on a column of sieves with a diameter of between 45 μm and 2 mm. The balls are made with the diameter fraction between 45 and 125 μm. Thus, 40 mL of distilled water is added to 100 g of clay powder. The balls obtained (approximately 0.5 cm in diameter) are dried in an oven at 60°C for 24 hours, then calcined in the oven at 500°C for 2 hours. The experimental device is a glass column 64.4 cm high and 2.9 cm inside diameter surmounted by a separating funnel containing the solution to be treated. The samples from the adsorption tests are analyzed using an AQUALYTIC 800 brand UV-visible spectrophotometer. Mathematical models are applied to model the breakthrough curves. The results showed that breakthrough time and adsorption capacity increase with bed height (60, 240 and 420 min respectively for 8, 16 and 24 cm) and decrease with flow rate (240, 90 and 30 min respectively). for 2, 3 and 4 mL/min). The modeling of the different breakthrough curves shows that the models applied are able to describe the entire dynamic behavior of the column.

Ecological monitoring in the Bouna region in the Sudanese Ivory Coast: Floristic surveys for monitoring biodiversity by landscape region

Sambi, Kambire — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

This study aims to highlight ecological parameters, dues to interactions between specific biodiversity, biotope and human practices, at various levels of landscapes in the Bouna region. We hope to contribute to choice of ecological zonings and thus to access suitable management practices for biodiverty. The hypothesis is that, in this region, ecological parameters are higher in Massifs and mountains. Cartography of landscapes and statistics description of vegetation parameters on the scale of the large « natural regions », thus identified, give high values of biophysical indicators in Inselbergs and mountain chains region, hills with rocks on top region and in certain sectors of tabular mountains and Croups with ferricrete crusts on top where they plead for conservation of hotpost biodiversity.

Determination of the physico-chemical quality of resources in water from the Loka watershed in Bouaké, Central Ivory Coast

Ebé, Aloua Estelle Danielle — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The objective of this study aims to evaluate the physicochemical quality of surface and well water based on measurements of Temperature (T°C), pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Suspended Matter (MES), Calcium (Ca2+), Magnesium (Mg2+), Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Bicarbonates (HCO3-), nitrates (NO3-), nitrites (NO2-), ammonium (NH4+), Chlorides (Cl-), sulfactes (SO42-), orthophosphates (PO43-) in the Loka watershed. The physical parameters pH, EC and T were measured in situ with a WTW 3111 pH meter, a WTW 3110 conductivity meter and a WTW3110 oximeter. Chemical parameters, major elements, nutrient salts and heavy metals were all analyzed at the CIAPOL laboratory. The analysis of these parameters was carried out according to the protocol of Rodier 1994. The suspended solids (MES) were obtained by filtration on a fiberglass filter. The physicochemical analysis of the Loka watershed shows that the surface waters have an average temperature of 26.43°C. pH values vary between 5.5 and 6.8. Summary The objective of this study aims to evaluate the physicochemical quality of surface and well water based on measurements of Temperature (T°C), pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Suspended Matter The coductivity content is between 29 ÿS/cm and 116.2 ÿS/cm, which reflects weakly mineralized waters. Nitrate concentrations observed in surface waters vary from 0.24 mg/L to 1.95 mg/L. Also, well water has a pH varying between 6.55 and 8.9 with an average of 7.35. These waters are also weakly mineralized and have nitrate contents of between 0.2 mg/L and 1.04 m/L. The average values of the different physicochemical parameters are generally below WHO quality standards. As a result, surface and well water on the whole can be used for the supply of drinking water but environmental monitoring remains important.

Study of the impact of domestic electric energy polluters: Case of the MV/LV distribution network in the Kakifuluwe district, CDM transformer cabin

Muswa, Daniel Kasongo Monga — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

For electrical engineers, the transit of power between the source and the consuming load must respect the principle of balance. Unfortunately, this balance is affected by pollution of the power consumed, through the polluting loads of electrical energy. From where an instability in tension and in power appear; one of the causes of this instability corresponds to a high load. In the case of the medium voltage-low voltage network, this is due to the growing increase in demand and a large transfer. of energy between the source of energy which is the transformer cabin and the consumers, which are the subscribers of the SNEL company. The SNEL network is subject to voltage instability because the load becomes too high than expected and the risk is all the greater when the consumption of reactive energy is also greater than expected. The low voltage electricity network of the city of Kolwezi is not spared from electrical energy pollution, the quality of the voltage and the power even consumed daily leaves something to be desired and raises more questions.

Replacement of a copper cable catenary power line with one using aluminum cable: Cas de la ligne caténaire de la Société Nationale des Chemins de fers du Congo (SNCC)

Grégoire, TSHAMBULA MIJI FOTA — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

In a country with a limited road network, the country has only 5,033 km of non-interconnected railways that do not have the same standards. Only 858 km of rails were electrified and served the mining region south of Katanga. The rail infrastructure of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has a vital role. At a time when preserving the environment and reducing greenhouse gas emissions are major concerns, electric locomotives are emerging as an efficient and environmentally friendly option compared to other modes of transportation by offering higher efficiency.

Physico-chemical and microbiological characterization of local beers of the city of Kara in Togo

Marie-France, Bakaï — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Sorghum beer, commonly called Tchoukoutou in Togo is a popular loved local beer in several African countries. However, the manufacturing conditions of this beer are still artisanal and this drink suffers from a lack of hygiene, reproducibility in the manufacturing chain and analysis of several parameters. Thus, in order to control quality and health safety, the physico- chemical and microbiological parameters of the samples of three different productions of local beers produced in Kara were analyzed. By that way, pH-metry, densimetry, colorimetry, alcoholometry, spectrophotometry, manometry and fresh state followed by counting on agar are methods used to determine respectively pH, density, volatile acidity and total acidity, alcohol content, sugar content, carbon dioxide content and microbiological quality of beer. Four samples of beer have been collected from sellers, and have been analyzed: these are two beers of type «Kabyè-Missine», a beer of type «Tchakpalo» and the fermented must of type «Kabyè-missine». The results showed that these beers have a pH between 1.92 ± 0.01 and 2.67 ± 0.00, a density that varies between 1.0063 ± 0.0001 and 1.0248 ± 0.0003, an alcohol content between 3.45 ± 0.03 and 7.48 ± 0.05. The microbiological analysis revealed that Saccharomyces yeast strains are present in all beverages, and unidentified wild yeast strains are also present in 3 out of 4 beverages. All drinks contain lactic acid and acetic bacteria. This study which is the first on the local drinks of the city of Kara will be deepened by complementary analyses such as the counting of other microorganisms, the detection possibly of methanol, tastings to assess the organoleptic quality of these drinks and the search for stabilization methods.

Emergence of donkey meat markets in the city of Kaele in Far North Cameroon

Zilhoube, Appolinaire — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The donkey (equus asinus) is traditionally considered a faithful companion of man. This horse of proverbial robustness is bred mainly for its services (transport, traction). It is also prized for its skin and, increasingly, for its meat. This study aims to study the emergence of donkey meat markets in the city of Kaélé in (Far North Cameroon. The methodological approach combines documentary research, field observations, surveys by questionnaire, interviews, cartographic surveys, and timing. Analysis of the data collected reveals the presence of eleven main markets run mainly by moundang and mafa butchers whose activities are influenced by the sarki pawa, the commune of Kaélé, and the head of the zootechnical and veterinary center of Kaélé. Grilled meat (48%) and fresh meat (32%) are the most popular and constitute an alternative to the high cost of livestock meat. Similarly, the marketing of donkey meat makes it possible to generate significant income allowing actors to meet some of their essential needs. However, the question of the balance between economic development and the preservation of biodiversity deserves to be posed for careful examination.

Physico-chemical characterization of soils in gold mining areas in the Central region of Togo

Tchassanti, Latifou — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The purpose of this study was to characterize the soils subject to gold mining. Data collection consisted of sampling soil from the 0-20 cm layer, in corn fields, under natural vegetation and in gold panning sites (gold-bearing soil and washed gold-bearing soil). A total of 48 composite samples of 1 kg of soil were analyzed at the ITRA Soil Laboratory in Lomé. The results of physicochemical analysis show that the washed gold soils have low contents of organic matter, carbon, nitrogen, calcium and sodium; and are sandy in texture. Washed gold soils have a very low level of fertility. Over the entire study area, the levels of trace metal elements range from 0.01 to 10.24 mg/kg for copper, 0.02 to 4.01 mg/kg for zinc, 0.01 at 5.05 mg/kg for lead and 0 to 1.40 mg/kg for cadmium. The pollution index varies from 0.01 to 0.09 depending on the localities and is less than 1 in all localities. The lowest index is obtained at Kéméni and Kpaza sites, indicating a low accumulation of trace elements on these sites. The sites of its localities are not polluted by the Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd studied. Gold panning in the Central Region of Togo leads to soil degradation.

American Orientalism, Religion and the 2003 War on Iraq

Kbiri, Hamid — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the central role of religion has played in the American invasion of Iraq in 2003, especially when examined through the prism of Orientalism’s nexus with war. Drawing on postcolonial theory and critical discourse analysis, the paper shows that religion has been at the core of the Orientalist discourses and practices that have been used to justify and mobilize for the 2003 intervention. Second, it proves that religion, both as a ‘sincere’ driver and propaganda tool, has been an important factor in the attainment of the political and popular consensus about the war within the United States and with ‘willing’ allies. And last, it reveals how the religion of the ‘Other’ was used to cast any resistance of Iraqis to the invasion as arising from exclusively religious/cultural motivations, in contradistinction to the secular/rational Americans who wage war for purely political ends.

Socio-anthropological and environmental study of water resources in the North and North-West of the Central African Republic, Lake Chad basin, in a context of climate change

FOTO, E. — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The fragility of Lake Chad’s existence due to climate change and anthropogenic activities has been demonstrated by several scientific articles in physics-chemistry, water chemistry and climatology, as well as studies in the human and social sciences, notably anthropology and sociology. The aim of this study is to investigate the population of the North and North-West of the Central African Republic, the Lake Chad basin, in order to understand all the existing uncertainties which will contribute to the definition of new preventive solutions for the sustainability of water resource management. In human societies, water potential reveals modes of social organization, local socio-political dynamics, power relations and the legitimization of status and social roles. Around water resources, actors with opposing interests confront and clash, making this natural and cultural heritage an «arena» at the heart of social organization. This implies that water potential is one of the «resources most closely interwoven with social and cultural relations», and appears to be a vector of social transformation. This work has highlighted the advent of inter-community conflicts caused by cross-border transhumance, the abandonment of local knowledge on water use, water pollution from mining and the destruction of the ecosystem that protects water resources in the southern slopes of the basin.

Antibiotic resistance profile of Escherichia coli strains isolated from lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from 3 market gardening sites in the commune of Port Bouët in Abidjan (Ivory Coast)

Amine, Koné Tadiogo Naty — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

This study aimed to determine the characteristics of antibiotic resistance in strains of Escherichia coli isolated from lettuce. 3 vegetable crop production sites were randomly selected. A total of 60 lettuce samples were taken from 20 lettuce plants randomly collected per site. Escherichia coli strains were isolated on Rapid E.coli 2 medium and their identification confirmed on API 20E gallery. Then, an antibiotic susceptibility test using the disk diffusion method in Müller-Hinton agar medium was carried out on the identified strains. The results revealed relatively high resistance rates to amoxicillin (73.5%, 66.5% and 62.5% at sites 1, 2 and 3 respectively) and tetracycline (86% for site 1, 67% for site 2 and 79.5% for site 3). The proportions of expanded-spectrum betalactamase were 22.5% for site 1, 44.5% for site 2, and 56% for site 3. A total of 246 extended-spectrum betalactamase-producing strains were observed out of 600 strains isolated, i.e. 41%. The resistance genes BlaCTXM, BlaSHV and BlaTEM were observed in the respective proportions of 32.5%, 43.1% and 56.1% in extended-spectrum betalactamase-producing strains. These antibiotic-resistant strains of Escherichia coli could constitute a health hazard for humans, because lettuces are vegetables eaten raw.

Main Explanatory Factors of the Degradation of the Vegetation Cover of the Galangashie Classified Forest in North Togo: An Analysis Approach Using Spatial Statistics and GIS

Zakariyao, Koumoi — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The Galangashie Classified Forest is facing a degradation of its vegetation cover due to anthropogenic factors. This research aims to identify the main explanatory factors of the dynamics of land use in order to propose a development plan for the sustainable management of this protected area. To achieve this, data was collected initially on the basis of survey forms by questionnaire and then by processing satellite images to determine the points of vegetation fires and the burned areas. The results show that four main factors explain this degradation of the classified forest. These are logging according to 37% of the households surveyed, agricultural practices for 36%, overgrazing according to 23% and wildfires according to 4% of the households surveyed. The annual distribution of wildfire points shows high fire activity in the forest. From 2001 to 2019, the areas burned in the sector evolved from 6139 to 5058 ha. On average 53% of the forest area was affected by the fires. The late fire points evolved from 49 to 112 points between 2001 and 2019, hence the vulnerability of the reserve. The results obtained constitute a database for the development of a development and management plan for the Galangashie Classified Forest.

Analytical and numerical comparative study of the damage of a composite film based on cassava starch reinforced with coconut fibers

Doumbia, Ahmed — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

We have developed a composite material based on cassava starch reinforced with coconut mesocarp fibers which has given convincing mechanical, physical and chemical properties. The objective of this work is to analyze its elastic damageable behavior. For this, we made an analytical study followed by simulations with finite element method under the Cast3M calculation code. It appears that before displacements in the vicinity of 0.51 mm, the composite, although presenting cracks, does not reach a state of total rupture. In addition, local fractures are observed from 0.52 mm in displacement. The comparison of the two methods shows a very high agreement of the values obtained. This thus confirms the results on the behavior of this material in our previous work. This composite can be used in certain areas such as packaging.

Numerical simulation of the power dissipated by the aerodynamics of a prototype mobile electric generator

SOKHNA, Sidy Mactar — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The article investigates power losses caused by aerodynamic forces in a stand-alone photovoltaic generator. The generator is designed to meet electrical energy requirements and is propelled by 3000 W electric motors in the rear wheels. To overcome resistances, including the variable air resistance at different speeds, the propulsion system is utilized. Numerical methods are employed to investigate the interplay between structure, shape, and performance. The contrast in pressure between the front and back of the generator creates a significant amount of pressure, mostly caused by aerodynamic drag. This occurrence is dictated by the body’s shape being examined concerning the airflow while in motion at a designated velocity, ascertaining the air’s force and dynamic pressure. During changes in speed, power is dissipated. The purpose of this study is to determine the value of this power. Numerical and analytical models provide results for this physical phenomenon. The findings of numerical simulations, which used ANSYS 2020 R1 and SolidWorks 2020 SP5 software, concerning the airflow over the generator are presented. The numerical and analytical methods show only a slight difference; 4.22% for drag force and 6.10% for dynamic pressure. These results indicate energy losses due to air resistance, revealing that a speed increase of 3 km/h results in a power decrease of 12.69 W, with rolling resistance being taken into account. It is worth noting that the total power lost amounts to 1438.55 W.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) sector in the Niayes area (Senegal): Analysis of cultivation techniques, conservation and marketing methods used by growers in Kayar and Notto

TOURE, Malick — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Senegal imports a large volume of potatoes, i.e. 23,452 tonnes in 2022. These imports have a negative impact on the country’s balance of trade, and reflect its low production capacity for a commodity that is in high demand on the market. Based on the premise that controlling horticultural production helps to reduce food insecurity, the aim of this research is to analyse the potato production, conservation and marketing system in the communes of Notto and Kayar. To achieve this, surveys were carried out with a sample of 150 producers in the two communes. After analysing the data, the results show that in both communes the majority of growers are men, with an essentially temporary workforce made up mostly of women. Annual potato production for most growers is less than 100 tonnes. Also, the quantity of potatoes marketed is less than 50 tonnes/year for most growers. Most customers are «bana-banas», with 97.3% and 93.2% of growers in Kayar and Notto respectively. Growers face a number of constraints, including a lack of training for some growers, problems of access to water, inputs and credit, price fluctuations and a lack of modern storage facilities.

Effect of fungicidal formulations based on Cymbopogon citratus essential oil and two contrasted natural clays on seed health and seedling development of naturally pathogen-infested sorghum

DABIRE, Tobdem Gaston — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Sorghum is the most cultivated cereal in Burkina Faso. However, sorghum is produced extensively without respect for good agricultural and storage practices and the resulting grains are permanently infected by mold species. These mold species cause seeds rot, seedling damping-off and others diseases in field. They also secrete mycotoxins harmful to human health. The main method recommended for their control is seed treatment with chemicals. However, handling pesticides presents high risks of toxicity and ecotoxicity. The search for an alternative method made it possible to identify the essential oil of Cymbopogon citratus which has antifungal properties. This essential oil was then formulated by adsorption on clay in order to facilitate its use in the field. The objective of this study was to test the efficacy of the formulation made with two types of clay against Phoma sorghina and Fusarium moniliforme, the main species of molds encountered, and to evaluate the effect of the formulation on seed germination and seedling growth. Sorghum grains from two varieties were thus coated with the formulations. The grains thus coated were first analyzed to assess the presence of the target molds and then sown in pots containing sterilized fine sand to assess the germination and growth of the seedlings. The formulations significantly reduced grain infection rates from both fungi by more than 70%. The formulation with Sitiéna clay significantly improved germination, plant vigor and root length of both varieties. Field trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy of this formulation and initiate the popularization procedure.

The intellectual capital as a predictor of a company’s future performance: A case study

Medaghri, Hassan A. — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The accounting and financial reporting system in use today is over half a century old and has failed to capture the new knowledge and innovation economy in which intangible assets are becoming increasingly valuable. Yet, there has been a growing acknowledgment among the research community as to the relevance of intellectual capital as a major enhancer of an organization’s well-being. Much of the research provides great support how the IC is instrumental in determining profitability and stock performances. This article is an attempt to examine intellectual capital impact on corporate performance of the IT sector in Morocco. The purpose of this study is twofold. Firstly, it attempts to verify empirically the influence of intellectual capital on firm performance. Secondly, we aim to analyze the effect of the corporate public listing over the period. We have undertaken over a nineteen-year period, a longitudinal (2002–2020) case study of a prominent payment-solutions company based in a developing economy and generating 80% of its revenues from global operations in ninety countries. The paper uses the Pulic framework, in its ameliorated version as modified by Ulum. The paper tests four elements of IC and company performance. For the sake of data analysis, the multiple linear regression with simultaneous entry method was used for this empirical study. The findings show that: the company’s IC has a positive impact on the firm’s current and future profitability, IC is not a predictor of market performance. In addition, IC components yield a significant correlation for the performance of the high-tech company, the results indicate that physical capital is not a determinant of corporate financial performance.

Condoms use determinants at first intercourse and knowledge of sexually transmitted infections by high school students in Lubumbashi, DR Congo

Numbi, Vinie Mwanza — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Condom utilization at sexual initiation is associated with subsequent condom use and with a decreased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Our study objective was to determine the factors related to the use of condoms at first sexual intercourse and the level of knowledge about STIs/HIV/AIDS among high school students in grades 11 and 12. A cross-sectional survey was conducted within three secondary schools in Lubumbashi City, D.R. Congo, from 2017. Sampling was exhaustive of the 563 pupils present on the day of the survey. A logistic regression analysis was performed. The mean age of the respondents was 18.2 ± 1.4 years. HIV/AIDS was the most commonly mentioned STI (99.8%). Sexual intercourse was the most quoted path of infection (93.4%) for STIs/HIV/AIDS. Condom use was the most cited form of prevention. Among the respondents, 21.2% had ever been sexually active. The condom was the most commonly used contraceptive (89.1%). The 118 pupils who were sexually active included 13.9% of all girls and 35.3% of all boys with a significant difference (p <0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that children 12 and older, and students who cited their parents as sources of information were more likely to use condoms at first sexual intercourse compared others. Students whose father’s or guardian’s education included university and who reported abstinence as a means to prevent STIs or pregnancy were less likely to use condoms at sexual debut than the others. Hence, family members, leaders and teachers should discuss reproductive health and responsible sexuality earlier with children.

Spatial and temporal dynamics of woody cover in the Kou watershed, Burkina Faso

Dembele, B. — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

In Burkina Faso, forest areas are losing several hectares of their surface area every year as a result of anthropogenic pressures and climate change. The Kou watershed is no exception to this trend. The aim of this research is to assess the spatio-temporal dynamics of vegetation cover in the Kou watershed using Landsat images. To this end, Landsat TM, Landsat ETM+ and OLI 8 satellite images from September and March (1986 to 2021) were used. Operations on Envi 5.3, field validation output and finally mapping on ArcGIS were the steps. Discrimination was significant, with kappa coefficients of 0.76; 0.79; 0.88 and 0.88. From 1986 to 2001, open forests, gallery forests, wooded and grassy savannahs lost 4.76%, 22.24%, 23.47% and 14.74% of their area respectively. Between 2001 and 2017, the areas of gallery forest (33.53%) and wooded savannah (56.67%) declined. Between 2017 and 2021, wooded and grassy savannahs lost 25.36% and 34.54% of their area respectively. The area occupied by water has decreased considerably over the 35 years. However, during the same period, there has been an increase in areas of annual crops, irrigated crops and habitats. These results highlight the need to develop a sustainable management strategy for the watershed, given its enormous potential.

The theatrical game: A didactic support with double competence

Manal, Chouiba — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Speaking in Moroccan schools remains a very complex but also very simple activity. This dichotomy manifests itself most of the time through the very low language level of the students. The latter often have difficulty conducting conversations and pronouncing words according to standards. This situation results from a lack of practice within the class and also outside the school setting because most students do not practice foreign languages, particularly French, in their family and friend circles. The problem of this research is as follows: Can we therefore consider theatrical practice as a means of developing the skills of understanding and production? This contribution will try to shed light on what is theatrical play and its impact on the dual competence of oral.

Establishment of a global comfort indicator for classrooms in a humid tropical climate

APOVO, Didier Berléo M. — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

This study looked at global comfort in a classroom in a tropical climate. Based on surveys and in situ data collection, the hierarchical multi-criteria analysis method was used to establish a model of the global comfort indicator. The weights obtained for each of the comfort components truly reflect the needs in terms of global comfort in a classroom in a tropical climate, with a high level of hygrothermal comfort, a high level of visual comfort and acoustic comfort, and a low level of olfactory comfort. The global comfort index for classrooms in a tropical climate, I_GSC, has been established and will be used as a tool for predicting global comfort in classrooms.

Anti-stress strategies and antioxidant potential of some traditional plants and salts used in poultry farming in hot climates in the Far North region of Cameroon

Denis, Djaomanwe — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The aim of this study was to explore local strategies used by poultry farmers in the Extreme-Nord region of Cameroon to mitigate the effects of heat stress in hens. To this end, a survey was carried out among 390 farmers in the Departments of Diamaré, Mayo-Danay and Mayo-Kani. A total of 19 strategies for combating heat stress were identified. The main ones were the use of canary to cool the water (15.63%), Adansonia digitata fruit pulp (8.46%), Allium cepa light violet or Allium cepa dark violet bulb (6.97%), traditional salts of Sorghum bicolor or Zea mays (5.97%), Salanum macrocarpon or Salanum aethiopicum fruit (5.92%) in chicken water. The phytochemical study of these plants showed that total polyphenol and tannin contents were highest in the fruit pulp of Adansonia digitata, Salanum aethiopicum and dark purple Allium cepa bulb. However, flavonoid, saponin and vitamin C levels were highest in Salanum macrocarpon fruit. Adansonia digitata fruit pulp and Sorghum bicolor traditional salts showed higher Zn, Fe and Cu contents (p < 0.05). The antioxidant powers of Adansonia digitata, Allium cepa light violet and Salanum aethiopicum were higher. We can conclude from the strategies explored that Adansonia digitata fruit pulp and Sorghum bicolor traditional salt have the best antioxidant potential.

Chemical parameters for valuing pineapple leaves into strands for hair

Agossou, Samson Ahognonhoun — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Pineapple leaves are usually buried or left to rot in the fields after the fruit is harvested. The aim of this study to harness the potential of plant fibers present in pineapple leaves to product hair strands. in order to reduce the dependence on synthetic resources derived from petroleum, which are often used in the production of strands. conventional capillaries. The methodology used includes several essential steps. First, the fibers are extracted manually. The fibers are then bleached using a 6% aqueous NaOH solution for 6 hours to remove any unwanted pigmentation, increase their versatility and achieve an optimal balance between whiteness and strength. The fibers were colored with natural indigo-based dyes. Color saturation and different shades are obtained by letting them soak for between 45 and 90 min. Finally, the colored fibers are immersed in a mixture of beeswax (90%) and paraffin (10%) to significantly improve their flexibility and water resistance. The wicks thus obtained have appreciable aesthetic and mechanical characteristics which are beneficial for the preservation of the environment.

Design and manufacturing of a new generation of multiparametric monitor called LIKITA CAREand#174; by the startup YAYI MAKE NIGER

Salatikoye, Mamane Kabirou Ouseini — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Background: Measuring and monitoring the physiological constants of patients in a hospital environment is very important in order to detect any clinical deterioration early. The use of an electronic monitor is essential for this monitoring. Objective: This study aims to describe the design and manufacturing of a new monitor called LIKITA CARE(by the company YAYI MAKE from Niger. Methodology: The LIKITA CARE( device includes two main parts: The electronic part and the software part. The electronic part includes three electronic modules: the control and signal processing module, the communication module and the power supply module. These different parts were manufactured and assembled. Results: LIKITA CARE(is a monitor for measuring the physiological constants of patients in particular: body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, electrocardiogram and oxygen saturation. It also allows you to monitor one or more patients thanks to its wifi connectivity and its web platform interface. Conclusion: LIKITA CARE(is a patient diagnostic and monitoring monitor, easy to handle and reproduce locally using 3D printing. The device allows six physiological parameters to be measured simultaneously. It would be important to compare its performance to other monitors.

The rise of civil society in Africa: A comparative analysis of Benin and Togo

Akessime, Lawani Ayemi — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Civil society organizations are important players on the international stage, and specifically in sub-Saharan African countries. While the place they occupy in the public arena and the influence they exert on political decisions seem to be accepted today, this has not always been the case. Their emergence is the result of a historical process that needs to be contextualized to better understand the role they play today. This article proposes a socio-historical study of this emergence, using two West African countries, Benin and Togo, as a framework for analysis. The analyses are based on a documentary review with data from archival documents, supplemented by a mobilization of scientific literature. A comparison of the emergence of civil society organizations in Benin and Togo illustrates that, despite similarities, from the 1990s onwards these two countries underwent differentiated processes. The success of the democratic transition in Benin was an important factor; whereas in Togo, the socio-political crisis slowed the rise of civil society for almost two decades (1990–2005).

Behavior of pavements with a base layer made up of Unbound Granular Material (UGM) in Côte d’Ivoire

Kone, Bakary — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

Roads are essential to the development of a nation, as they facilitate transportation and economic growth. Pavements, which provide a durable surface for vehicle traffic, depend on a variety of factors, including the quality of Unbound Granular Material (UGM) used in their base layers. The main objective of this review article was to review recent studies on the characterization of UGM in pavements. To do this, a bibliometrics study was carried out to confirm the scientific interest of the subject by revealing a large number of publications on pavements and gravels not treated on the subject since 2000. It appears that various empirical and theoretical approaches are used in pavement design and that UGM properties play a crucial role in the structural integrity of pavements. Indeed, the study showed that UGM cleanliness is crucial to avoid contaminants that can affect the quality and performance of building materials. Various methods, including digital image analysis, have been used to quantify the characteristic shape of UGM. Additionally, UGM resistance is achieved using tests such as the Los Angeles abrasion test, which measures impact resistance. The researchers also underline the importance of taking into account cyclic stresses and permanent deformations in the design of the pavement to improve its longevity. In conclusion, the article highlights the growing scientific interest in pavements with UG base layers and discusses various methods for characterizing UGM properties, which are essential for the design of durable and resilient road pavements.

Factors in the invasion of the Comoé River estuary by Invasive Aquatic Plants (south-east Côte d’Ivoire)

Emmanuel-Joël, Abrou N’Gouan — 2023-11-02T00:00:00-00:00

The contribution of remote sensing to controlling the proliferation of invasive aquatic plants is of paramount importance, as it makes it possible to better monitor the spatio-temporal evolution of these plants’ occupation of water bodies. The surface of the Comoé River estuary has always been occupied by Invasive Aquatic Plants (IAPs). This study was carried out with a view to listing all the aquatic plant species colonising the surface of the estuarine water body and analysing the dynamics of their proliferation. To achieve this, the study’s first stage consisted of carrying out an itinerant inventory along transects installed on the water body to record all the species encountered. In the second stage, the colonisation dynamics of the estuary were analysed using four Landsat (TM) 1986, 1989, Landsat 7 (ETM+) 2004 and Landsat 8 (OLI) 2022 satellite images. The floristic inventory identified 8 species divided into 8 genera and 8 distinct families at the surface of the estuary water body. Analysis of land use dynamics from 1986 to 2022 shows a variation in the annual rate of expansion of IAPs on the surface of the estuary water body. The recent period from 2004 to 2022 is characterised by a considerable rate of expansion of around 1240.2%. The results of this study could constitute a reliable scientific database for the implementation of a policy to control the proliferation of these IAPs at the surface of the water body of the Comoé River estuary.