bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluación del desempeño docente universitario. Una mirada desde la percepción de docentes y estudiantes
Authors: Berrío-Quispe Margoth Luliana , Chávez-Bellido Dina Emeteria , Herrara-Salazar Patricia Matilde
Published: December 2022

El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la percepción de profesores y estudiantes universitarios sobre la evaluación del desempeño docente que se desarrolla, semestralmente, en una universidad privada de Lima. El enfoque empleado en la investigación es el cualitativo. Para obtener la información, se utilizó la técnica de entrevista semiestructurada, aplicada sincrónicamente, mediante videoconferencias, a seis docentes y seis estudiantes de pregrado de la universidad. Los resultados permitieron encontrar: (1) coincidencias entre la percepción de estudiantes y docentes: evaluación subjetiva, descontextualizada y realizada solo por formalidad; (2) ausencia de reconocimiento a los buenos docentes; (3) limitaciones por parte de los docentes, sobre todo, de mayor edad, en la aplicación de las TIC y (4) falta de retroalimentación permanente. Se concluye que una evaluación del desempeño docente debe ser holística, tanto cuantitativa como cualitativa, pues sería útil para reflexionar y mejorar el proceso académico ya que implica responsabilidad institucional, social y ética.

 

EVALUATION OF UNIVERSITY TEACHING PERFORMANCE. A LOOK FROM THE PERCEPTION OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS

ABSTRACT

The objective of the study was to analyze the perception of university professors and students about the evaluation of teaching performance that takes place every six months at a private university in Lima. The approach used in the research is qualitative. To obtain the information, the semi-structured interview technique was used, applied synchronously, through videoconferences, to six teachers and six undergraduate students from the university. The results allowed to find: (1) coincidences between the perception of students and teachers: subjective evaluation, decontextualized and carried out only for formality; (2) lack of recognition of good teachers; (3) limitations on the part of teachers, especially older ones, in the application of ICT and (4) lack of permanent feedback. It is concluded that an evaluation of teaching performance must be holistic, both quantitative and qualitative, as it would be useful to reflect on and improve the academic process since it implies institutional, social and ethical responsibility.

Keywords: teacher evaluation, institutional responsibility, student evaluation
Trabajo colaborativo en tiempos de virtualidad: buena práctica pedagógica a través de recursos digitales
Authors: Arcia-Hernández Pedro Francisco , Bastidas-Briceño Carmen Elena , Fuentes-Manríquez Paul Cristián
Published: December 2022

El propósito de esta investigación es describir el trabajo cooperativo docente como una práctica pedagógica a través de un portafolio electrónico generado con la aplicación Google Sites. Se inscribe en el enfoque cuantitativo, con base en una reflexión documentada y la sistematización de experiencias. La muestra se constituyó con 50 estudiantes de un programa de maestría en Educación de una universidad chilena del semestre de 2021. Entre los resultados se destacó que el uso de Google Sites en el contexto del trabajo colaborativo entre docentes permitió crear estructuras de enseñanza-aprendizaje que transcienden la naturaleza del trabajo individual permitiendo la construcción de productos interdisciplinarios para un aprendizaje integral basado en competencias transversales. Se concluyó que los saberes construidos y la cooperación como implicación binomial pedagógica representan una estrategia congruente con la modalidad de educación a distancia que no genera costos y facilita la creación de redes de aprendizaje entre docentes y estudiantes.
Responsabilidad social universitaria: perspectiva desde la gestión institucional
Authors: Andia Valencia Walter , Villena Presentación Ricardo , Bendezú Mejía Christian , Cruz Shuan Reyna Luisa
Published: December 2022

Las universidades son organizaciones cuyos enfoques de gestión influyen en su relación con el entorno y con sus grupos de interés. En ese sentido, la responsabilidad social universitaria cumple un rol muy importante al establecer los lineamientos del compromiso que adquiere la universidad con la sociedad: ello delinea las estrategias y las acciones que deben incorporarse en la formación académica, la investigación, la proyección social y la gestión institucional. El presente artículo sistematiza la interrelación de la responsabilidad social universitaria con la gestión institucional, perspectiva poco analizada en el ámbito universitario, pero de relevante importancia. La investigación es de índole teórica y de tipo descriptiva, sustentada en una revisión bibliográfica especializada que ha permitido el análisis y el desarrollo conceptual. Se concluye que es necesario desarrollar un sistema de gestión de responsabilidad social universitaria que uniformice el enfoque de responsabilidad social y oriente la gestión institucional hacia una vinculación y un compromiso necesarios entre la universidad y la sociedad.
Acoso sexual a las trabajadoras de limpieza pública. Un problema a tratar en los contextos educativos
Authors: Maquera Maquera Yulino , Añaños de Delgado María Luz Criales , Maquera Maquera Yolynda , Mendoza Martínez Karina
Published: December 2022

El acoso sexual es un fenómeno que afecta el desempeño laboral de las mujeres. En Perú, las trabajadoras del aseo público son vulnerables a estas molestias verbales y físicas, que se han venido naturalizando. Aunque en tiempos recientes tales agresiones han sido objeto de disposiciones legales y sanciones, las propuestas educativas no han sido debidamente enfocadas a eliminar esta tara social. El presente estudio se planteó como objetivo determinar las percepciones de las trabajadoras de limpieza pública frente al acoso sexual callejero y la urgencia de tratar este tema en los planes educativos de la carrera Trabajo Social. La metodología de investigación corresponde al enfoque cualitativo y las técnicas utilizadas fueron la entrevista y las historias de vida. Se formulan algunas recomendaciones pedagógicas para atacar el problema desde sus raíces y se concluye que la problemática debe encararse en el marco de una educación desde una perspectiva de género.
Implicaciones de la teoría del procesamiento de información o cognitivismo en aprendices universitarios. Menciones al conductismo y constructivismo
Authors: Meza Isabel
Published: December 2022

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo ofrecer información, conocimientos y reflexiones al docente universitario, interesado en mejorar su desempeño en el aula en los tiempos que corren. Ello supone, necesariamente, asumir cambios significativos en las ejecuciones del aula de clases para rectificar la llamada educación tradicional, presente en el sistema educativo desde tiempos remotos y responsable del memorismo. Sin embargo, para que se manifieste el cambio, se requiere estar al día en el conocimiento y las aplicaciones de la Psicología de la educación y sus manifestaciones en las teorías de aprendizaje, con énfasis en una de las más útiles para iniciar el “aprender a enseñar” y el “aprender a aprender”: la teoría del procesamiento de la información o cognitivismo. Esta permite mostrar a los estudiantes sus mecanismos mentales y su aplicabilidad por la mediación docente para activar estrategias cognitivas y metacognitivas que promuevan el aprendizaje significativo; acto previo a visualizar al estudiante como “constructor de su propio aprendizaje”.
Risk factors and psychological impact on highly vulnerable adolescents during COVID-19 confinement
Authors: Balseca Valle Mercy , Noroña Salcedo Darwin
Published: December 2022

Introduction: the confinement by COVID-19, caused the interruption of medical/psychological treatments with serious deterioration for the mental health of adolescents in condition of vulnerability.Aim: to determine the influence of sociodemographic factors on the symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress in adolescents with medical/psychological treatment prior to COVID-19 confinement in the city of Riobamba, Ecuador. Method: the research had a non-experimental, cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational, descriptive design aimed at 100 individuals aged 10 to 19 years, to whom a psychological measurement instrument was applied virtually and in person: DASS-21 Scale and a sociodemographic questionnaire that included questions on medical/psychological treatment prior to the pandemic. The descriptive and inferential analysis was performed with the SPSS statistical program to calculate Pearson's Chi-square and check the statistically significant relationships between the study variables and Odds ratio as a measure of probability of occurrence. Results: the research revealed that confinement by COVID-19 determined greater affectation in the anxiety subscale, extremely severe and severe dimensions with 64% of the cases, moderate and mild with 36 %. The statistical analysis of correlation between the DASS-21 Scale and sociodemographic characteristics determined significant association between the subgroup of adolescents with previous treatments and anxiety. Conclusions: The risk factors analyzed, influenced 11 % in the symptomatology identified by the DASS-21 with a probability of occurrence of 13,14 times for generating anxiety and 5,33 for depression in adolescents who interrupted medical/psychological treatments, during the pandemic health emergency
Need to enhance emotional intelligence in the face of suicide risk in nursing students
Authors: Ardiles-Irarrázabal Rodrigo-Alejandro , Galaz Ildefonso Lorena Marcela , Olivares Acevedo Francisca Milania , Pavez Olivares Thalia , Sanderson Araya Anerine Fernanda , Venegas Carvajal Constanza Belén
Published: December 2022

Objective: To describe the relationship and influence of trait emotional intelligence (EI) on suicide risk (SR) of young nursing students. Methods: Quantitative, correlational and cross-sectional research. Non-probabilistic sampling, and 201 students participated. A survey with sociodemographic background was applied virtually; In addition, Emotional Intelligence was evaluated with the TEIQue-SF scale; and suicidal ideation through the Beck Hopelessness Scale. Results: a moderate negative correlation is evidenced (r= -0,376; p=0,000) for one of the trait EI factors and SR level. Conclusions: a lower level of the well-being factor of the trait EI was related to a higher level of RS. Trait EI was associated as a protective factor against RS in these students. The training centers should implement programs that promote the development of EI as opposed to suicidal ideation
CONNECTIVIST APPROACH TO THE ANALYSIS OF RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS IN SLOVAK POSTMODERN LITERATURE
Authors: SHTEINBUK Feliks , STRAPAC MASSAYOVA Vanessa
Published: December 2022

The Purpose of the Study is the analysis of spiritual symbols in the works of Slovak postmodernists - D. Dušek, D. Mitana, P. Vilikovsky and M. Vadas, as well as the verification of the principles of connectivism within the framework of literary studies. The Research Methodology is based on hermeneutic and deconstruction methods, as well as on the connectivist approach, which allow the interpretation of deconstructed motifs at the level of connecting individual elements into a secondary semantic network. The Scientific Novelty of the research lies in the fact that for the first time in Slovak literary studies, connectivism was used for the study of postmodern literature. It is concluded that a complete denial or confirmation of religiosity as such can be achieved, for example, by combining religious meanings from different novels. The Conclusions. The analysis of religious symbols with the principles of connectivism shows how the authors reveal the strong desire of humanity to have a stable core, which is absent in modern society. Therefore, considering how much evil has been committed in the world, the writers choose a version that describes the reign of Lucifer himself. Slovak postmodern literature works FeliksSHTEINBUK, Vanessa STRAPAC MASSAYOVA6 Innovations in the scientific, technical and social ecosystems. Issue 4. 2022hard to create its own models of reality, in which authors allow their stories to arbitrarily organize and create connections between the material and transcendental realms, thus providing a unique perspective on the complex system of reality
La innovación tecnológica y su incidencia en la competitividad empresarial, caso de estudio
Authors: Navas Walter H. , Aquieta Verónica P. , Izurieta Brandon A. , Casa Alexandra M. , Chiliquinga Morelia A.
Published: December 2022

El presente artículo procura dar lineamientos en cuanto a temas de innovación su incidencia en la competitividad empresarial en las empresas, se tomó como referencia las transformaciones dentro de los distintos tipos de escenarios existentes y forjar condiciones óptimas empresariales, la problemática es ¿cuáles son los deslices frecuentes por lo que las empresas no requieran el implemento de una innovación tecnológica afectando así su competitividad empresarial dentro de las empresas  del cantón Latacunga?, la metodología a usar en       esta investigación es de enfoque cuantitativa, orientada hacia la interpretación de los datos, las investigaciones centradas en los sujetos, se basan en las perspectivas del fenómeno a instruirse de modo general. El proceso de estudio es inductivo, el investigador se relaciona con los     antecedentes, indaga refutaciones a interrogaciones, la técnica de investigación se respalda en las encuestas. La innovación tecnológica y la competitividad brinda asistencia al momento de dar más valor a los productos, logrando así el efecto de mejoramiento productivo, esto hace que sean más sostenibles y puedan competir dentro del mercado, también depende de las raíces culturales en que se encuentra arraigada esto provocaría una maximización o reducción en la economía, productividad y crecimiento laboral en zonas rurales. Los resultados obtenidos en esta investigación proporcionan evidencia tanto teórica como empírica sobre cómo la innovación tecnológica y la competitividad empresarial impulsan el desarrollo de la empresa y que en cierto grado mejoran los procesos y la toma de decisiones.
Informalidad financiera en tiempos de Covid-19 y la economía en familias de estudiantes de la Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo
Authors: Franco Cedeño Flor Janet , Ullón Pérez Margarita Clemencia , Mosquera Arévalo Arturo Patricio
Published: December 2022

En este artículo, se analiza la informalidad financiera en tiempos de COVID-19 y la economía en las familias de estudiantes de la Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, se obtuvo la matriz y correo institucional de los estudiantes y egresaos en el primer período académico 2022-2023, de la carrera Licenciatura en Contabilidad y Auditoría, la población fue de 546 matriculados a los cuales se les envío el link del formulario de Google. La muestra se estableció con 313 estudiantes que respondieron la encuesta desde el primero al octavo nivel y egresados. El diseño de investigación es de tipo correlacional, la metodología inductiva–descriptiva, y cualitativa; a través de un instrumento de investigación estructurado con una escala de Likert, se trabajó con expertos que permitió la clasificación en tres dimensiones: informalidad financiera, innovación social y economía familiar; la aplicación de una prueba piloto para validar las preguntas analizando las características del objeto de estudio; así también, se revisó fuentes de información secundaria. Como resultado se obtuvo que las familias de los universitarios tuvieron y tienen aún una afectación significativa y crítica en varios casos al ser despedidos de sus empleos, en otros casos por el fallecimiento de la persona que sustentaba el hogar, lo que se vio reflejado en la disminución de la economía familiar. Por lo que, los estudiantes durante la pandemia aprovechando las clases virtuales, tuvieron la oportunidad de optar por una actividad laboral en muchos casos de tipo informal, los emprendimientos familiares para apoyar y mejorar de alguna manera la débil economía en sus hogares.
Breve acercamiento a las fiestas cortesanas en la real audiencia de Quito: música y teatro
Authors: Figueroa Robles Lucía Margarita
Published: December 2022

La Real Audiencia de Quito mantuvo un vínculo con la corona española, en América el virreinato constituía una organización de jerarquía superior, ya que era el virrey quien representaba la corona, en él se desplegaban celebraciones cortesanas. Esta investigación pretende ofrecer una visión panorámica sobre estas principales celebraciones en la Real Audiencia de Quito, mediante un breve recorrido por las representaciones teatrales y la música aborigen que les acompañaba, considerando que luego de la conquista, lo que más ha resistido en el tiempo es el testimonio forjado por los primeros cronistas españoles asombrados por la singularidad de los “salvajes”, al observarlos en sus ritos, danzas, cantos a través de instrumentos erigidos con materiales de la naturaleza; de ahí que uno de los principales medios empleados para efectuar esta especie de adoctrinamiento por parte de la conquista -a decir de investigadores- fue precisamente la música indígena, en la cual se conservaron las melodías, impostándole textos litúrgicos.
Counseling needs of prisoners at the Ankaful prisons in the Central Region of Ghana
Authors: Ayamba Ben Bishop Nyanihorba
Published: December 2022

The lives prisoners live are informed and decided on by a number of factors. Most of the time, this determination is based on the emotional and psychological support that is either given or deprived by stakeholders and those dear to incarcerated individuals. The premise of the argument is that all prisoners deserve some form of counselling need but is not all the time they are given such support. On these grounds, Investigating the kinds of counseling needs of inmates at Ankaful Prisons in the Central Region was the study's primary goal. The research was descriptive in nature. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire and it was purposively administered to sixty (60) respondents within the chosen location. The data was personally collected by the researcher through hard copy forms. The study was analysed with SPSS version 25 and Microsoft Excel 2016 Professional Edition. The findings showed that the counselling needs of prisoners are in the form of physical, emotional, and psychological. It was also found that these needs were provided by private individuals/donors, churches and religious bodies as well as some prison officials at Ankaful Prisons. It was concluded based on these findings that in as much as these counselling needs are provided for the prisoners, they appear to be woefully inadequate.
Pragmeme of glamorizing material in Olu Maintain’s song, Yahooze
Authors: Olorunleke Sunday Femi , Agu Margaret Nonyerem
Published: December 2022

This paper investigates the preponderance of vulgar expressions in the selected song that glamorize materialism. Ostentatious living without a corresponding legitimate source of livelihood makes this study a compelling one as the song under reference seeks to glamorize Advance Fee Fraud otherwise referred to as ‘419’ in Nigeria parlance. This international crime derived its name from the section of the Nigeria Criminal Code in section 419. The study purposively selected the song as it meets the purposes and intentions of the paper while Pragmatic Acts Theory is chosen as its theoretical framework. This study purposively selected Olu Maintain’s song titled Yahooze on the basis of its conviction that it meets its preconceived bias of a song that thematizes and encourages materialism and crime. The study adopts the content analysis approach to discuss the identified lyrics that fit into the focus of this paper. Phrases and clauses in the song that are found to promote and glamorize illegal acquisition and flaunting of wealth are presented in a table and analyzed. Ostentatious living, globe-trotting, and mindless money-spending are evident in the song and highly promoted. The study concludes that Nigeria hip hop artistes should use their songs to mould the characters of Nigerian youths towards nation- building and imbibe the culture of dignity in labour.
Contributing to a Healthier Nigeria through Public Health Workforce Capacity Development: Afenet Experience in Nigeria
Authors: Nguku Patrick , Balogun Mohammed , Antara Simeon , Waziri E
Published: December 2022

The recent upsurge in the number and magnitude of outbreaks of infectious diseases in Nigeria has been managed effectively and efficiently by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in an increasingly epidemiology guided approach led by a skilled workforce within the one health collaborative agenda.1–4 The increasing number of the outbreaks of re-emerging infectious diseases could not have been unconnected to the effect of global warming with its resultant effect in the changing population activities and interaction with nature.5–7 Nigeria could not have effectively contained these emerging public health challenges had she not taken steps in developing her public health infrastructure, the laboratory capabilities and manpower development. Since 2008, the Nigeria Field Epidemiology Laboratory Training Program (NFELTP), a collaborative effort by NCDC, Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) with financial and technical support from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been building epidemiology capacity for disease prevention and control. Field epidemiology, the art and practice of epidemiology in the field, has been adopted as an effective tool and practice in preventing, detecting and controlling emerging public health threats and crisis. Field epidemiology provides the scientific evidence for public health actions.
Readability, stability, and internal consistency of a new psychometric inventory on evidence-based practice in physiotherapy
Authors: Balogun Joseph , Oyeyemi Adetoyeje , Mbada Chidozie , Awoleye Faith , Olakorede David , Balogun Adetutu
Published: December 2022

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has, in the last decade, gained global prominence in health care professions because it provides the framework for lifelong and self-directed learning. These traits are crucial for the continued provision of quality health care. This study sets out to develop a culturally appropriate instrument to measure physiotherapists' knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors relative to the use of EBP and establish the instruments' psychometric properties. A 53-item EBP inventory that consisted of seven parts sociodemographic, EBP competence and behaviors, perceived knowledge of EBP, perceived skills and resources, attitudes about EBP, and barriers related to the use of EBP was created. Theinstrument was administered to 25 physiotherapists within a two-week interval on two occasions. The Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease and Flesch-Kincaid scores for the instrument were 49.5 and 8.3, respectively. Its Cronbach alpha range from "fair" (0.333, p<.001) to "almost perfect" (0.837, p<.001). The test-retest (stability) scores for the instrument parts were significantly (?2 = 4.738, p<.038) different for only one (competence on EBP) of the seven factors. The overall findings revealed the instrument is relatively easy to comprehend, highly stable, and internally consistent. The availability of this instrument will promote further studies of EBP in physiotherapy.
Healthcare Education in Nigeria: Evolutions and Emerging Paradigms.
Authors: Balogun Joseph
Published: December 2022

The above book published by Professor Joseph Balogun, an accomplished clinician, researcher, educator, and administrator, who doubled as a participant-observer while working on this book, is a compelling masterpiece. As a former Senior Lecturer and Vice-Dean at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife three decades ago, a retired Distinguished Professor at Chicago State University, faculty, and administrator at several universities around the world, made Professor Balogun uniquely qualified to author this book. He is familiar with the global education and healthcare systems. As a patriotic Nigerian who has devoted his life to giving back to his homeland, Professor Balogun authored this book to address the curriculum deficits he observed during one of his many visits to Nigeria. At a national workshop he gave at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo City in 2018 to faculty, heads of academic departments, and university administrators, he observed that most of his audience had no formal training on their roles and responsibilities.
Optimization of Production and Characterization of Bio-Fuel Produced from Cassava and Potato Peels
Authors: Ude Michael , Oluke Ike
Published: December 2022

The optimization of production and characterization of bio-fuel produced by enzyme fermentation of hydrolyzed mixed peel (cassava and potato peels) were carried out. Proximate analysis was used to characterize the substrate and response surface methodology was employed to optimize the fermentation process parameters while the kinetics and thermodynamics of the bio-ethanol production by enzyme fermentation were studied using Michealis-Menten model. The result obtained showed that the mixed peels contained hydrolyzable cellulose. The optimum conditions for the bio-ethanol yield of 80% by enzymatic (yeast) fermentation are temperature, 46oC, time, 6days, pH 5.7 and enzyme dosage, 2.2ml. The kinetics studies of the enzymatic (yeast) fermentation of hydrolyzed mixed peel obeyed the Michealis-Menten kinetic model and the reaction was feasible. The properties of the bio-ethanol were similar to normal ethanol. Therefore, the result has proved that hydrolyzable sugar from mixed Peels (Cassava and potato peels) is a good substrate for bio-ethanol production as biofuel via enzymatic fermentation.
Modelling and prediction of hydrolysis index of gluten-free cookies from cardaba banana starch vis-?-vis response surface methodology and support vector machine.
Authors: Olawoye Babatunde
Published: December 2022

The increase in the onset of celiac disease among the world populace had increased the demand for gluten-free products. Therefore, this study aimed at modelling and predicting the hydrolysis index of gluten-free cookies using response surface methodology (RSM) and support vector machine (SVM). The baking temperature (150 -180 ?) and baking time (15-25 min) were varied using a central composite design. The obtained result revealed that both modelling approaches (RSM and SVM) accurately predict the hydrolysis index of the gluten-free cookies owing to their higher coefficient of determinant (R2 > 0.9). The predictive capability assessment of response surface methodology and support vector machine revealed the superiority of support vector machine (0.9658, 0.9329, 0.059) in predicting the hydrolysis index of the gluten-free cookies over response surface model (0.9613, 0.9241, 0.063) owing to its high correlation coefficient (R), Coefficient of determinant (R2) and lower mean square of error as well as root mean square of error (RMSE).
Collaboration of Industry with Academia: The Engine of Industrialisation and Development
Authors: Akinola Adegbola
Published: December 2022

This paper examined and illuminated with examples the ways and means of creating the environment for science and technology research to flourish. It underpins the creation of virile industrial production base as the trigger for research to plume; and consequently, prescribes the key to a sustainable research funding and mutually benefiting collaboration and symbiotic partnership between the industry and academia. It is shown, using comparative analysis, that a sine qua non for the creation of sustainable industrial base is urgent completion of Ajaokuta, NIOMCO, ALUMCO and making other metals, iron, steel and machine tools companies functional; as this generates spinoff industries, promotes beneficiation of local raw materials, expands manufacturing companies in magnitude and number; thereby create wealth to fund government budget and hence, research. It is further established that having correct policies, institutional and governmental, which include pertinent tax regime with rebate rights; and getting every company of specified grade to have a Research Unit locally in the country, provides needed framework for research and collaboration. It is also noted the effect in reducing cost and saving forex for infrastructures (e.g. rail lines, power, dams, etc.); as such, freeing money to fund intensive research, education, health and municipal services. Hence, unleash the benefits accruable to Industry, Academia, citizens; and the consequence on human development index (HDI) and the country at large. It is concluded, that the issue with Nigeria is not dearth of proficient researchers to do quality cutting-edge research, but lack of environment, wherewithal: industrial production base, policy, legal framework, weak political will and discipline to drive any policy. Ways to obviate these barriers to engender research and collaboration with industry beyond the usual concept of local content are elucidated in the paper.
Yellow Fever in Nigeria: A Review of Past, Current, and Future Strides
Authors: Onoja Anyebe , Faleye Temitope , Adeniji Johnson , Audu Rosemary , Omilabu Sunday , Salako Babayunde
Published: December 2022

Since 1985, there has been resurgence of yellow fever in Africa with outbreaks occurring in more than 33 countries. From that time, thousands of cases have occurred in Nigeria which is the most populous country in Africa. Semi-urban and urban centres across the country are densely populated, with numerous sparsely populated rural settings in every State, some of which contain heavy forests. A wide-range of vegetation zones exists which lead to smooth transition of several tropical climates. As a result, there is preponderance of Aedes species in many parts of the country especially during the rainy season when relative humidity is high. Vector control is not applicable to jungle yellow fever, but infection in human population can be prevented by vaccination. Yellow fever deaths were recently reported in Nigeria, causing panic and public outcry. This review highlights the epidemiological trajectory of yellow fever, the past, and the present and future efforts in the country with a view to providing in-depth knowledge of yellow fever activities in order to enhance public health.
Assessment of water and sediment around a lead-acid battery plant dumpsites in South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Osibanjo Oladele , Oyebanji Adedayo , Tamungang Njoyim
Published: December 2022

In a quick assessment carried out around dumpsites of a battery manufacturing plant, heavy metals content of sediment, surface water and ground water samples from seven ponds, three streams and a well were assessed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Some physicochemical parameters of the samples were also investigated. Metal concentration in pond and stream sediment samples ranged from 25.71-75,843 μg/gPb, 0.74-4.13 μg/gCd, 32.35-385.31 μg/gCu, 3.17-28.5 μg/gNi, 558.25-908.42 μg/gFe and 10.01-53.59 μg/gZn and these metal concentrations exceeded allowable guidelines for sediment by USEPA. For water samples in general, concentration of metals ranged as Pb(0.001-5.69 mg/L), Cd(0.0006-0.0699 mg/L), Cu(0.001-0.09 mg/L), Ni(0.001-0.38 mg/L), Fe(0.0399-17.099 mg/L) and Zn(0.001-0.14891 mg/L). Physicochemical parameters in water were pH (4.54-7.59), Temperature (25-28 OC), DO (2.49-6.45 mg/L), TS (296-35,100 mg/L), TSS (2.0-281 mg/L), TDS (290-34,800 mg/L), Cl- (12.2-52.5 mg/L), NO3- (3.2-800 mg/L), PO43- (0.14-1.58 mg/L) and SO42- (76.0-5,300 mg/L). Results obtained for TSS, TDS, NO3-, SO42-, Pb, Cd and Fe in water, especially in ponds at Ile-Igbon and Ni in Aweere Stream, exceeded limits set by standard organisations as well as results from similar work.
Potentials of microcrystalline cellulose prepared from wood dusts wastes of Ficus Platyphyla, Planatus Occidentalis and Gmelina Aborea
Authors: Baker Mariam , Oguntoye Steven
Published: December 2022

This research aims to prepare microcrystalline cellulose (MCCs) from native cellulosic wastes in order to find potential applications for each of the tree species. The physico-chemical characteristics of the MCCs were studied using physical and spectroscopic techniques. Acid hydrolysis in 2M HCl was used for the preparation of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) obtained from agricultural waste sample, Gmelina aborea (GA) Ficus platyphyla (FP) and Planatus occidentalis (PO) wood dust. The MCCs obtained were off-white and powdery in appearance. The yield of MCCs were 67.55% for Ficus platyphyla, 77.00% Planatus occidentalis and 80% for Gmelina Aborea (GA). The functional groups in the MCC samples were confirmed by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic method with characteristic absorption bands of ;OH stretching at 3416 cm-1; C-H stretching at 2918 cm-1; -OH bending at1377 cm-1;, 1159 cm-1; and C-O-C pyranose ring skeletal vibrations at 1026-1033 cm-1, with crystallinity absorption bands showing up at 1432 and 850 cm-1 respectively. The thermal stabilities were determined from Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and showed that the MCC samples are thermally stable (50% weight loss at 450OC or PO, 50% weight loss 470OC for FP and 50% weight loss at 590OC for GA). The characteristic morphological features were established by scanning electron micrograph (SEM) and the crystallinity of the microcrystalline cellulose were further confirmed using the X-Ray Diffraction (X-RD) technique which showed three main reflections at 2?=14.70, 22.09 and 34.24, this therefore indicates microcrystalline cellulose were cellulose I type and that acid pretreatment did not affect the structure of the MCC. The crystallinity index values were 69.4, 68.7 and 79.6 for FP, PO and GM MCCs and respectively. The Samples were tested for pH, Moisture content, Hydration and swelling capacities as well. These results showed that the wood dusts form the tree species are good potential sources of high-grade cellulose which can serve as useful starting materials for further processing and applications.
Environmental contribution to antimicrobial resistance: A largely ignored global health issue
Authors: Mustapha Adam , Allamin Ibrahim , Ismail Haruna , Eze Ukpai , Ibrahim Muhammed , Bello Rabi , Faruq Aminatu
Published: December 2022

Environmental contribution to the continued occurrence of antibiotic resistance has been largely unexplored. There has been much focus on clinical isolates for their resistant nature but non-clinical bacterial isolates in the environment have been considered as the chief contributing factors that facilitate the spread and dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ABR) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs). The natural environment acts as a reservoir for bacteria, providing them with a favourable condition for their emergence and breeding of resistance. One such environmental leverage is inter/intra-specie exchange of genes encoding resistance factors. It was argued that human activities aid immensely in the emergence of antibiotic resistance in the environment. The rationale for this review is to examine extensively the complex interplay of antibiotic resistance from the natural environmental perspective and factors that influence the occurrence and dissemination of such resistance. It also seeks to stress the biological factors that facilitate the emergence of resistance and link it to general biological processes. The review has been structured to capture the general threat posed by the circulation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their genes, as well as the influence of the environment in contributing to this global health threat. In addition, the review looked at the effective methods used to tackle the silent pandemic, by controlling the spread of resistance in the environment. Environmental stakeholders and policymakers are recommended to be included in tackling the development of antibiotic resistance.
Cholera in Nigeria: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Response - A Review
Authors: Salako Babatunde , Ajayi Abraham , Smith Stella
Published: December 2022

Cholera caused by Vibrio cholerae remains endemic and recurrent in Nigeria resulting in morbidity and mortality on annual basis. Vibrio cholerae O1 and non-O1/O139 are reported causative agents of the disease outbreak in Nigeria and some of these strains circulating the country acquired multidrug resistance potential. Several factors including socioeconomic and environmental among other factors drive this trend. Some regions in the country have been identified as hot spots most especially the north where insurgency has exacerbated outbreaks and management/control difficult. Surveillance and response to cholera outbreaks has been suboptimal which in turn has always increased the number of fatalities. Coordinated and harmonized approach involving all needed components (education, WASH, vaccination, surveillance, human capacity building and strengthening capacity of laboratories) has been advocated as a viable option to tackle the scourge.
Phytochemical and antioxidant evaluation of cassia sieberiana D.C. stem bark extracts
Authors: Mshelia Emmanuel , Mathias Sylvester , Umaru Millicent , Adam Adam
Published: December 2022

Cassia sieberiana D.C. belongs to the Fabaceae family and it is used ethnomedically in the management of cancer, diabetes and other diseases. There is a growing concern about the scourge of diseases caused by excessive free radicals in the body and lack of standardization of medicinal herbal products. Therefore, this research is aimed at evaluating the phytochemical and free radical scavenging activities of the plant extracts with the view to identify the chemical constituents and antioxidant properties of the extracts. The powdered stem bark was evaluated for its pharmacognostic profiles and then extracted successively with the aid of Soxhlet extractor using n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. The extracts obtained were concentrated using rotary evaporator and the percentage yields of the extracts were determined. The extracts were screened for their phytochemical constituents using standard protocols. The thin layer chromatography (TLC) profiles of the resulting extracts were determined using suitable solvent systems and the retention factor (Rf) values of separated spots of compounds were calculated. The total phenolic content of the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts were measured using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and gallic acid was used as standard. The antioxidant (free radical scavenging) activity of the extracts were measured using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1- picryl hydrazyl) and ascorbic acid was used as standard. The results were expressed in terms of percentage inhibition. The percentage yields of the extracts were: 0.52 %, 6.58 % and 10.52 % respectively for n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. The preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of tannins, cardiac glycosides, saponins, flavonoids and triterpenoid/steroids. Also, the total phenolic contents were found to 7.64 mg and 2.97 mg gallic acid equivalents for ethyl acetate and methanolic extract respectively. The free radical scavenging activity of the extracts revealed higher activity in the ethyl acetate extract. The results indicated that the extracts contain phenolic compounds which may be responsible for the antioxidant activity.
Challenges and Opportunities in Lassa fever Control Efforts in Nigeria
Authors: Happi Arise , Ugwu Chinedu , Akano Kazeem , Happi Christian
Published: December 2022

Lassa fever is a viral zoonotic tropical disease endemic in parts of West Africa. It causes substantial mortality, morbidity and economic burdens on affected populations. The year 2019 marked the 50th anniversary of the first diagnosis of Lassa fever in Nigeria. Over the years, a few and sporadic intervention measures have been undertaken to control Lassa fever in Nigeria. However, the disease has remained a burden due to neglect, and apathy from the Government. Here we highlight the Lassa fever control efforts so far undertaken in Nigeria. We also point to some challenges and opportunities for effective Lassa fever control efforts. In addition, we proposed few Lassa fever control measures, which vary from advocacies, training of local communities and health workers in the use of rapid, cheap diagnostic tools. We also propose an integrated genomic surveillance platform that utilizes one health approach, in tracking and tackling Lassa fever, as the key future of Lassa fever control effort. In this review, we present IGOHRAL, an integrated genomic platform that utilizes clinical, genomic and epidemiological data in a one-health approach to tackle Lassa fever problem. Lassa fever (LF) is a serious viral hemorrhagic fever endemic in West Africa. The history of Lassa fever virus (LVS) in Nigeria is that of neglect, wickedness and apathy (Akpede et al., 2018). Lassa virus was first diagnosed in a missionary hospital in Nigeria in 1969 (Carey et al., 1972). There was an outbreak of a febrile illness involving hospital staff and those who visited the hospitals. The aetiology was later confirmed to be LVS. Prior to this outbreak, there have been several descriptions of illness resembling LF (Monath, 1975). However, a genomics study by Anderson et al. later confirmed that the LVS emerged in present day Nigeria over 1060 years ago (Andersen et al., 2015).
Acute toxicity of calcium hypochlorite (65% chlorine disinfectant) on the liver, brain, and gill of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings (Burchell, 1822)
Authors: Kolawole Ayotunde , Iyiola Adams
Published: December 2022

The acute toxicity of Calcium Hypochlorite was investigated on the water quality and histopathology of liver, brain and gill of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings. Fish with average weight and length of 5.5 ± 0.8g and 7.8 ± 0.5cm were stocked at 10 fish per tank and fed with 45% crude protein diets. The experimental fish was exposed to a photoperiod of 12 hours daylight and 12 hours darkness. After the range finding test, the fingerlings were exposed to test concentrations of treatments 0.000 mg/L (A), 0.011 mg/L (B), 0.033 mg/L (C), 0.055 mg/L (D) and 0.077 mg/L (E) and was replicated trice. The Lethal Concentration value (LC50) for the disinfectant was 0.033mg/L. Behavioural changes such as erratic swimming, frequent jumping and gasping for air at the surface was observed in the exposed fish. Histopathology of the brain showed different stages of spongiosis and necrosis; gills showed thickening of the lamellae and necrosis while the liver showed varying congestion in the exposed fish. The observed changes in behaviour and histopathology were normal in the control fish and increased with increase in concentration of disinfectant to the exposed fish. It is therefore essentia
A checklist on the status of targeted fish species in selected communities of Ondo coastal waters, Nigeria.
Authors: Ipinmoroti Mabel , Iyiola Adams , Idowu Babajide
Published: December 2022

The increased human activities resulting from industrialization and urbanization around the Ondo section of the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean have significantly affected the environment. To this end, the water quality, fish abundance and target status of fish species were identified, not-withstanding the influence of human activities on the water quality and its effects on fish abundance. Four fishing communities were purposively selected based on geographical location and accessibility along the coast; Ayetoro and Idi-Ogba communities on the eastern side and Eruna-Ero and Igbokoda on the western side. A total of 120 structured questionnaires were randomly administered using snowball technique at 30 per site. Erunna-Ero community measured the highest mean temperature, dissolved oxygen, salinity and conductivity with 29.39 0.30 oC, 4.48 0.06 mg/L,10.68 0.39ppt and 40.70 0.18 S/cmrespectively, while pH was highest in Idi-Ogba community (6.47 0.00). A total of 61.67% were within 21-40 age brackets; 69.17% were males, and 75% of the males engaged in fishing activities. Agricultural activities were high (97%) with most wastes emptying into the river (85.83%). A total of 27,622 fish individuals were identified across the fishing communities with Igbokoda having the highest abundance (38.13%) and Cynoglossus browni (75.18%) was the highest fish species. In the past, three (3) economically important fish species were of major target but a reduction to two (2) species was observed at the time of study which indicated a reduction in target fish species in Igbokoda community. An increase from three (3) to four (4) target species were observed in Ayetoro, Erunna-Ero, and Idi-ogba communities which indicated an increase in target fish species. The study showed the activities around the coastal water dictated the abundance of fish species and therefore essential to monitor the water quality parameters for the sustainability of fish species in the coastal water.
Effects of New Biological Threats on Health Security and Safety in Nigeria: Looking Back and Looking Forward
Authors: Okonofua Friday
Published: December 2022

Over the past decades, several old and new infectious diseases have featured as major contributors to Nigeria’s health vulnerability, with evidence indicating that sufficient gains are yet to be made in tackling their dominance. Since the colonial and post-colonial periods, Nigeria has witnessed several episodes of serious biological threats from small pox, yellow fever, poliomyelitis, rabies, measles, plaque and several others – and it took years of sustained efforts to reduce their prevalence. Indeed, over the succeeding years, infectious diseases such as dengue fever, lymphatic filariasis, trachoma, leishmaniosis, buruli ulcer, leprosy, dracunculiasis (guinea worm) and Chagas disease became so dominant and sustained within the African region that for lack of a better definition, they have been collectively referred to as “neglected tropical diseases” (NTD) (WHO, 2010). NTD became a dominant lexicon for describing about 20 diseases that had been “neglected” within international programmatic focus and the fact that they affect the world’s largest communities and individuals. To date, the World Health Organization (WHO, 2021) estimates that NTDs affect about one billion persons worldwide, with the majority being residents in sub-Saharan African countries and other low-income countries around the world. Despite the continued expansion of the spheres of these infections, very limited progress has yet been made in restraining the health and social impact of the NTDs, especially in low and middle-income countries.
Modifying cooking banana starch using octenyl succinic anhydride improves the amylose-amylopectin ratio of starch. A chemometrics approach
Authors: Olawoye Babatunde
Published: December 2022

The disadvantage posed by native starch during food application had led to starch modification using physical or chemical techniques. This research therefore, aimed at modelling and optimizing the amylose-amylopectin ratio of modified cooking banana starch using chemometrics approach (response surface methodology). This was done by varying different concentration of octenyl succinate anhydride concentration (3-5%), reaction time (30-60 mins) and pH (8-10) using Box-Behnken design. The result obtained revealed the significance and accuracy of the model in predicting the amylose-amylopectin ratio of the modified starch owing to its low p-value (p < 0.001) and high coefficient of determinant (R2 > 0.97). The adequate precision value greater than 4 was an indication that the model can navigate within the design space. Finally, an optimal value of 3.32% octenyl succinate anhydride concentration, reaction time of 32.04 mins and substrate pH of 8 was obtained which resulted in predicted amylose-amylopectin ratio of 0.806.