bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advancing mathematics education in Africa: Challenges, strategies, and prospects
Authors: Agbata B.C. , Obeng-Denteh W , Abraham S. , Asante- Mensa F. , Kwabi P.A. , Okpako S.O. , Amoah-Mensah J. , Arivi S.S. 
Published: October 2024

This study deals with an investigation into the multifaceted landscape of mathematics education in Africa, exploring its historical development, current challenges, and promising prospects. By examining the nature of mathematics and its significance in society, the study identifies key challenges hindering effective mathematics education across the continent. These challenges include inadequate resources, limited access to quality education, cultural barriers, and insufficient teacher training. Through an extensive review of the literature and analysis of existing initiatives, the study presents a range of strategies to enhance mathematics education in Africa. These strategies encompass leveraging modern technologies, fostering collaborative learning environments, promoting culturally relevant pedagogies, and investing in teacher professional development. Furthermore, the study underscores the vital importance of mathematics education in Africa, emphasizing its role in fostering critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and socio-economic development. It highlights the necessity of equipping African learners with mathematical competencies to address contemporary challenges and participate in the global knowledge economy. Drawing upon these insights, the study offers recommendations for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to strengthen mathematics education in Africa. These recommendations include increasing investment in educational infrastructure, expanding access to digital resources, promoting interdisciplinary approaches, and fostering partnerships between academia, industry, and government. This study serves as a comprehensive guide for advancing mathematics education in Africa, offering actionable insights to address challenges, harness opportunities, and cultivate a thriving mathematical culture across the continent. By prioritizing mathematics education, Africa can unlock its full potential and contribute significantly to global scientific and technological advancement.
Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection among primary school pupils in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: Ngwamah J.S , Kayode V.O. , Saleh R. , Audu P.A. 
Published: October 2024

The study was evaluated to determine the present pervasiveness of gastrointestinal intestinal parasites among school-aged children in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria. The study was carried out to relate the ambiguity among the different participants to gastrointestinal infections in relation to sexes, ages and their sociodemographic status. The investigation was carried out in 10 randomly selected primary schools (5 public and 5 private). Four hundred samples (comprises of 212 male and 188 female) were collected and examined for the presence of parasites. The ages of the participants ranged from 5-14 years, were examined microscopically by using direct smear methods. Out of the 400 participants inspected 149 (37.25%) were found positive for some gastrointestinal intestinal parasites. 10 species of intestinal parasites were came in contact with. Hookworm infection recorded the highest prevalence (10.50%) followed by Fasiola hepatica (6:00%). Trichuris trichuira, recorded the least prevalence (1%). In the four different age groups, pupils of group 10-12 proved to have higher prevalence than any other group investigated. The environmental factors are also considered as the major risk factors associated with infection intensity of gastrointestinal intestinal parasitic infections. The result showed water source, occupational status, toilet system used by the participants determine their health status in relation GIPs. The result showed high prevalence in individuals using river water (62.96%) for their domestic chores than any other source. The study indicated that intestinal parasites were prevalent in the study area, and for this reason, control measures, such as chemotherapy, provision of adequate sanitary facilities, portable drinking water, improved personal hygiene and health education should be the focus of community, government and non-governmental organizations.
A hybrid machine learning-based prediction approach: The accountant behavior
Authors: Udeagha E.O. , Choji N.D. , Mbanaso U.O. , Aimufua G.I.O. 
Published: October 2024

The integration of technology in accounting roles raises questions about the adaptability and skills of accountants in utilizing these tools effectively. Understanding how accountants' behavior is influenced by technology is crucial for their professional development and the accounting industry's future. This study focused on the development of a predictive model, leveraging both Naive Bayes and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) models. The research methodology involved the use of Pandas DataFrame to establish a robust framework for the dataset, incorporating both established and innovative features as input variables. These datasets were then utilized as the training data for the predictive model, with the primary objective of extracting valuable insights for decision-making and forecasting accountant behavior. The key findings of the study shed light on the performance of the different models employed. The Naïve Bayes model emerged as a standout performer, achieving an accuracy rate of 63% and an exceptional recall rate of 97%. This underscores its effectiveness in predicting accountant behavior, especially in identifying positive instances. On the other hand, the K-Nearest Neighbors model displayed a balanced trade-off between precision and recall, achieving an accuracy rate of 52% and an F1 score of 64%. This suggests that the model provides a reasonable compromise between accurately identifying positive cases and overall performance. Furthermore, the hybrid KNN-NB model, which amalgamates elements from both approaches, also achieved an accuracy rate of 52%. This finding indicates that the hybrid model has the potential to harness the strengths of both algorithms, offering a versatile approach to predicting accountant behavior.
On the fixed points theory of strong partial b- metric spaces
Authors: Issaka I. , Bainson B.O. , Obeng-Denteh W. , Dontwi I.K. 
Published: October 2024

The paper resorted to some fixed point results for Kannan type contraction in Strong Partial b-Metric Spaces. It is a generalization of metric space and strong b- metric spaces. As proves of unique fixed point theorems for a Kannan mapping in a complete metric spaces is presented. We provided some examples to illustrate our results and demonstrate how valid the result is, with suitable examples.
The impact of CuCO<sub>3</sub> nano particles on the rheology of biodiesel extracted from castor oil
Authors: Gwadabe S.H. , Jamo H.U. , Ismail U.I. , Musa F.U. , Uba A.R. 
Published: October 2024

Transesterification tend to be the most adopted method of producing biodiesel, but the outcome is associated with high viscosity especially at low temperature. Viscosity is the most important rheological property of biodiesel. This paper investigates the impact of Cupper II Carbonate (CuCO3) nanoparticles on the rheology of biodiesel extracted from castor oil. The CuCO3 nanoparticles has been subjected to Xray fluoroscopy (XRF) in order to determine its elemental composition. The crude castor oil was purified, trans-esterified and CuCO3 nanoparticles were dispersed in the trans-esterified oil with concentration ranging from 0.1wt% to 1.0wt% in 0.1wt% interval. Fourier Transform Infrared spectra (FTIR) was used to examine the functional groups of the transesterified sample. The samples were subjected to viscosity measurement using digital viscometer at a temperature range of 20oC to 100oC at the interval of 20oC. The XRF characterization shows that the CuCO3 nanoparticles used is pure due to the fact that its percentage concentration tends to be 92.11%. FTIR analysis indicate that the ester (biodiesel) was achieved at 1744.4 peak. The viscosities of the samples decrease as the temperature increases and with the increase in the amount CuCO3 concentration. The viscosity tends to be best at the application of 0.3wt%. This shows that CuCO3 nanoparticles can be used as biodiesel additive using castor oil as feedstock.
Development and characterization of nanoparticle encapsulated with activated clay for decolorization of vegetable oil
Authors: Awwa Aisha , Ladan Zakari , Myek Bako 
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on optimizing the synthesis of ZnO/Kaolin nanoparticles and their application in adsorptive bleaching of palm oil. The reaction mechanism involves the dissolution of metal oxides (Fe2O3, Al2O3, CaO, MgO) from clay lattices using mineral acids, increasing the surface area and triggering ion exchange processes. The kaolin is beneficiated through crushing, washing, acid treatment, and drying, and then activated with ZnCl2. Zinc oxide nanoparticles are synthesized using Moringa leaf extract and zinc acetate, followed by the synthesis of ZnO/Kaolin composites using Central Composite Design (CCD) to optimize parameters like kaolin ratio, calcination temperature, and time. The composites are characterized by XRD, XRF, and BET surface area analysis. The bleaching efficiency is evaluated through absorbance and iodine value, with ANOVA analysis confirming the significance of dosage, temperature, and time. The optimized conditions identified are essential for maximizing the composite’s adsorptive efficiency in palm oil bleaching.
Effects of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) rhizo-inoculation on soil physico-chemical, bacterial community structure and root colonization of rice (<i>Oryza sativa l.</i> var. faro 44) grown in ferruginous ultisol conditions
Authors: Ibrahim Musa Saheed , Ikhajiagbe Beckley 
Published: October 2024

Ferruginicity is a special condition when soil became rich in iron. This condition is characterized by high pH and reduced bioavailability of plant limiting nutrients. Unfortunately, this type of soil covered 30% of arable lands in Nigeria. This research aimed at using a native plant growth promoting bacteria (Bacillus cereus strain GGBSU-1, Klebsiella variicola strain AUH-KAM-9 and Proteus mirabilis strain TL14-1) with phosphate solubilizing capabilities to remediate iron toxicity and improve soil nutrients, as well as soil micro-biota colonization. Soil physico-chemical properties before rhizo-inoculation (FA), after 16 weeks of rhizoinoculation with the PGPB into the rhizoid of a growing rice seedling (FB) and after 16 weeks of natural attenuation (FC) were analyzed. Phosphate solubilizing capacity of the PGPB was investigated using a developed Pikovskaya’s growth medium. The results showed that FA is rich in iron and deficient in bioavailable phosphorus and nitrogen (200.67 mg/kg, 8.01 mg/kg and 0.20%) respectively, as against the FB soil which showed moderate iron and increased soil nutrients (51.22 mg/kg, 20.21 mg/kg and 0.33%). The presence of acidic exudates, which was indicated by a red litmus paper at the rhizosphere in FB signifies the iron chelation capacity of the PGPBs resulting in iron remediation and soil nutrient improvement. Furthermore, the significant increase in microbial population in the FB soil as against the FA and FC corresponds with the SEM results at the root epidermis. Furthermore, other nitrogen-fixing bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis were observed to be active and motile in the FB. This indicated the effectiveness of PGPB with PSB capacities in iron remediation and soil nutrient enhancement.
Bacteriuria co-infection and impact of urinary schistosomiasis on daily activities of women in Yala Local Government Area, CRS, nigeria
Authors: Ubi Patience J. , Otu Joseph U. , Omini Arit U. 
Published: October 2024

Urinary schistosomiasis is one of the most important tropical diseases, which has received insufficient attention in developing countries. The burden of urinary schistosomiasis is further exacerbated by co-infection with bacterial Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). This study was aimed at assessing bacteria co-infection and the impact of urinary schistosomiasis on daily activities of women in Yala L.G.A in Cross River State, Nigeria. Macroscopy, urinalysis, and microscopy were used to examine the 650 urine samples (400 from Okpoma and 250 from Ugaga villages) collected to determine presence of Schistosoma haematobium eggs. The presence of bacterial strains in urine samples positive for Schistosoma eggs was evaluated using standard microbiological protocol. Questionnaires administered to women provided information on socio-demographic data and water-contact activities. Results revealed that out of the 650 urine specimens examined in the two villages, 202 (31.08%) were infected as overall prevalence. The highest prevalence (48.53%) was found among the 11-22 years age group, and the least (12.80%) among the 59- 70 years age group. Statistical analysis at significance level (P≤ 0.05) revealed that there is a significant relationship between occupation and infection rate of schistosomiasis in the area. One hundred and sixty women (72.07%) who were infected complained of suprapubic pain and painful urination. Also, the infection prevented them from going to farm, market, carrying out their daily domestic activities (cooking, washing, fetching water), attending social functions, and performing their functions as caregivers. A total of eight (8) bacteria genera were isolated and identified from 202 urine samples positive for Schistosoma eggs. The bacterial species include Klebsiella sp. 3 (2.47%), Staphylococcus aureus 39 (32.23%), Enterococcus aerogenes 6 (4.95), Escherichia coli 32 (26,45), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 14 (11.57), Staphylococcus saprophyticus 10 (8.26), Enterococcus faecalis 9 (6.61) and Proteus sp. 8 (6.61). Significant bacteriuria was detected in 121 (59.90%) and co-infection was detected in 65 (53.68%) of schistosomiasis cases. This investigation revealed the impact of urinary schistosomiasis on the daily activities of the women and significant bacteriuria in the study area which suggest that bacterial presence may be a potent complication in the management of urinary schistosomiasis. The integration of complementary control strategies such as disease surveillance, chemotherapy, health education, potable water supply, provision of toilet facilities and sanitation in the study area would lead to great success..
Phytocompound screening, cytotoxicity and antifungal activity of <i>Cymbopogon citratus</i> extract against onychomycosis pathogens in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Tyona Ngodoo Magdalene , Musa Nomsu 
Published: October 2024

Onychomycosis, a prevalent fungal nail infection, poses a substantial public health challenge, particularly in tropical regions such as Nigeria. This study investigates the phytocompounds, cytotoxicity and antifungal activity of Cymbopogon citratus extracts, as a source of novel antifungal compounds for onychomycosis treatment. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry technique was employed for the phytocompounds screening, while minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentrations were determined using standard method. The results revealed that a total of twenty-four (24) compounds were detected out of which 7 compounds were assessed from the essential oil, extracts of methanol had five (5), ethyl-acetate (8), and hexane (4) compounds respectively. Compound with the highest percentage height was Dodecanoic acid, 1,2,3-propane (6.48%). Hexane had higher MIC ranging from 0.232 µg/ml. whereas diacetate had MIC range of 0.03-2 µg/ml, however essential oil (EO) showed the lowest MIC range of 0.03 -1 µg/ml as compared to all other extracts and the control (Terbinafine) showing a MIC of 0.03-4 µg/ml. The antifungal potential of Cymbopogon citratus extracts, particularly essential oil, was demonstrated against various fungal isolates. Essential oil consistently exhibited the lowest MIC and MFC values, indicating potent antifungal properties. The study added valuable information to the growing body of evidence supporting the antimicrobial efficacy of C. citratus extracts.
Microbiological examination of ready-to-eat cow hide (Ponmo) sold by street vendors in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Magdalene Tyona Ngodoo , Ogbene Ojowu Sally , Etele Akpa Joy 
Published: October 2024

Cow hide, commonly known as ponmo, is an edible product derived from the skins of large animals such as cattle, camels, and buffaloes. Ponmo is a popular delicacy in various regions of Nigeria. However, the unhygienic production practices of ready-toeat ponmo often lead to contamination and spoilage by microorganisms. This study aimed to assess the bacteriological quality of ready-to-eat cow hide (ponmo) sold by roadside vendors in Makurdi metropolis. Ten samples of ready-to-eat ponmo were collected from roadside vendors in five different markets: Wadata Market, Wurukum Market, North Bank Market, High-Level Market, and Modern Market. The samples were washed in distilled water, serially diluted and inoculated onto different media (Nutrient Agar and MacConkey Agar) using the pour plate method, followed by incubation at 37°C for 24 hours. The bacterial isolates were identified based on cultural, microscopic, and biochemical characteristics, revealing the presence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp, and Proteus spp. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacteria (46.67%), followed by Escherichia coli (35.56%). Statistical analysis indicated no significant difference (P ˃ 0.05) in bacterial load among the samples, with total bacterial counts ranging from 2.50 x 10^5 to 2.75 x 10^5 CFU/g. The presence of these bacteria, some of which can cause food borne illnesses, highlights the public health risks associated with consuming ready-to-eat ponmo. This study underscores the need for enhanced monitoring of ready-to-eat products and increased public health education for both vendors and consumers.
Percutaneous decannulation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation using MANTA device: A real-world single-center experience
Authors: Milioglou Ioannis , Qian Alice , Salerno Pedro Rafael Vieira de Oliveira , Pereira Gabriel Tensol Rodrigues , Palma Dallan Luis Augusto , Gray Kelsey E , Morrison Michael , Abu-Omar Yasir , Eldiasty Mohammad , Baeza Cristian 
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND
The MANTA vascular closure device (VCD) represents a novel approach to achieving hemostasis after large-bore femoral access procedures. Numerous clinical studies have evaluated the efficacy of the MANTA device across a range of patient populations undergoing different procedures. However, there is still a paucity of data available concerning the use of MANTA devices in aiding the decannulation of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO).
AIM
To present our single-center experience of utilizing the MANTA VCD in patients undergoing this procedure.
METHODS
This single-center study included all patients undergoing percutaneous decannulation of femoral VA-ECMO using the MANTA plug-based VCD between January 2021 and October 2023 at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. Inclusion criteria were adult patients who required prolonged (> 24 hours) hemodynamic support with VA-ECMO. Outcomes included all-cause mortality, hemostasis, bleeding, limb ischemia, and site infection.
RESULTS
This is a retrospective cohort study of 19 patients with a mean age of 56.8 years. Twelve of them were males with a mean body mass index of 29. The most common extracorporeal membrane oxygenation indication was acute coronary syndrome complicated by cardiogenic shock at 36.8%. The mean length of intensive care unit stay for these patients was 18.8 ± 8.42 days. Seventeen out of 19 patients survived to discharge. The MANTA device was successfully deployed in 19 patients, with 10 procedures conducted at the bedside and 9 in an operating room setting. Complete hemostasis was achieved within 5 minutes of MANTA deployment in 17 out of 19 patients. In 2 patients manual compression after Manta deployment was required to achieve adequate hemostasis. Additionally, acute lower extremity ischemia was noted in two patients, necessitating endovascular interventions. No infections were reported at the site of MANTA deployment.
CONCLUSION
Overall, based on our experience and that of other centers, the MANTA VCD has proven to be a simple, safe, and effective percutaneous technique for facilitating in the OR, but most of all it opens the opportunity for bedside VA-ECMO decannulation. Post-decannulation ischemic complications are higher in this series of sick patients when compared with elective procedures like transcatheter aortic valve replacement and endovascular aneurysm repair. Additionally, operators should be mindful of the incidence of ischemic complications. Distal Doppler pulse signals should always be checked, to indicate bailout options when this occurs.
Integración de las TIC en la educación de los profesores del área de Física
Authors:   Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, Sandoval de León Fredy Augusto 
Published: October 2024

OBJETIVO: Determinar el nivel actual de integración de las Tecnologías de Información y Comunicación en la enseñanza de la Física, considerando factores como la disponibilidad de recursos tecnológicos, las habilidades y conocimientos de los profesores, y las prácticas pedagógicas utilizadas. MÉTODO: Se utilizó un enfoque mixto, multidisciplinario, el proceso se realizó haciendo una revisión de los artículos existentes sobre la integración de las Tecnologías de Información y Comunicación en el área de física. RESULTADOS: Los datos recopilados evidencian que los docentes aún utilizan metodologías tradicionales para la enseñanza de la física, siguen con clases magistrales, expositivas y las prácticas de laboratorio son casi nulas. Sólo un 20% de los docentes utiliza TIC para incorporarla a sus evaluaciones. Los estudiantes de los institutos públicos si cuentan con celular en un porcentaje bastante alto 90% pero no tienen recursos económicos para utilizar las plataformas y buscadores para investigar o utilizar aplicaciones. CONCLUSIÓN: Se llega a la conclusión que la brecha digital en la enseñanza pública se ha incrementado después de la pandemia lo que constituye un obstáculo para quienes tienen la motivación para superarse académicamente.
Análisis de los factores que inciden en la implementación del uso de simuladores de Física y su efecto en el rendimiento académico
Authors:   Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, Ortíz Prillwitz Walter Giovanni 
Published: October 2024

OBJETIVO: Analizar los factores que inciden en la implementación del uso de simuladores de Física y su efecto en el rendimiento académico. MÉTODO: Se desarrolló un estudio de tipo cualitativo de revisión bibliográfica donde se seleccionaron investigaciones relacionadas con el uso de simuladores, la implementación de estos y los factores que afectan su utilización, así como el efecto en variables como el rendimiento académico, con ciertos criterios de selección que incluyen la fecha de publicación (del 2021 a la fecha) y que cuenten don un DOI o un enlace de acceso funcional. RESULTADOS: Se encontró que los autores asocian el efecto de simuladores con el aprendizaje (30%) y el rendimiento académico (20%), un 60% de los autores apoya su uso, pero con ciertas condicionantes en busca de su optimización, las condicionantes más recurrentes fueron que se insertaran a partir de metodologías como SAMR y TPACK y que se busque una solución para la brecha digital entre usuarios. CONCLUSIÓN: El uso de simuladores debe aplicarse con metodologías que incorporen adecuadamente la herramienta para garantizar el efecto positivo en el rendimiento académico, además, debe realizarse un análisis de la brecha digital entre los usuarios y un consecuente plan alterno para incorporar a la totalidad de usuarios a esta herramienta tecnológica en el momento de implementarla.