Journal of the University of Zulia

Editorial

Reyber Parra Contreras — 2026-05-15

Editorial corresponding to Volume 17, Number 49 of the Journal of the University of Zulia.

Mathematics and Health go Hand in Hand. An Academic Reflection

Luís Fernando Plaza Gálvez — 2026-05-11

Doctors, nurses, and similar professionals often lack basic mathematical training, hindering their ability to improve their job performance. This research established how mathematical knowledge is linked to the healthcare sector from various perspectives, including numerical, analytical, and investigative. Therefore, the general objective was to understand how mathematics contributes to enriching the performance of healthcare professionals in different contexts. An exploratory, documentary analysis of the information sources was used, yielding results that ultimately led to the conclusion that mathematics and healthcare are closely linked. This connection has contributed to improving life expectancy by allowing for more accurate and timely assessments of solutions to many health problems affecting the population in various settings.

Attitude Towards Mathematics: A Literature Review

Juan David Firigua Bejarano — 2026-05-11

Students' attitudes toward mathematics are a key factor in their academic performance and willingness to learn, making them a central focus in mathematics education research. This article presents a systematic literature review using specialized databases to identify the main categories that shape attitudes toward mathematics and the factors influencing their development. The findings reveal that negative attitudes are associated with anxiety, low academic performance, and lack of interest, all of which hinder the learning process. To assess these attitudes, Likert-type scales are the most commonly used instruments, often supplemented by alternative tools for a more comprehensive analysis. As a result of the study, a model based on graph theory is developed to represent the interaction between the various factors affecting mathematical attitudes. The study concludes that attitude plays a crucial role in mathematics teaching and learning, highlighting the need to create and implement educational environments that foster positive attitudes. Designing suitable learning spaces and applying innovative pedagogical strategies are essential to mitigating the negative effects of anxiety and math aversion, ultimately promoting a more favorable relationship between students and mathematics.

Effect of Bothrops spp and Bothrocopias spp Venom on Colorectal Adenocarcinoma Cells

Juan David León-Rojas — 2026-05-11

Colorectal cancer has become a global health challenge due to its high prevalence and mortality rates. Current treatments lack therapeutic selectivity, affecting both healthy and malignant cells, and represent high costs for the healthcare system. For this reason, studies of substances with antitumor capacity have increased in recent years. Some research has demonstrated the presence of components with anticancer potential in viper venom. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of the complete venom of Bothrocophias myersi, Bothrops rhombeatus, and Bothrops punctatus specimens, as well as two fractions of Bothrops asper venom, on SW480 and SW620 colorectal adenocarcinoma cell lines and HaCaT non-malignant cells. Electrophoretic characterization by SDS-PAGE was performed on each complete venom or fraction, and subsequently, cytotoxicity assays were conducted using Sulforodamine B, with exposure times of 24 and 48 hours. In general, all the venoms exhibit strong cytotoxic effects, except for the BaV fraction of B. asper venom. B. punctatus venom showed statistically significant differences in its cytotoxic effect between healthy and tumor cells, especially on the SW480 cell line (<p=0.00), so further research is proposed to profile its components and study its apparent selectivity on these tumor cells.

Febrile Icteric Syndrome with Acute Kidney Injury Due to Leptospirosis: A Case Report

Erick Alexander Cabrera Estrada — 2026-05-12

Introduction: Leptospirosis is a zoonosis with a widespread global distribution, underdiagnosed in tropical climates, and associated with occupational or recreational exposure to contaminated water sources. Weil's syndrome, its severe icteric form, presents with hepatic, renal, and hematological involvement, with a high risk of mortality if not diagnosed promptly. Case report: A 41-year-old man, an artisanal fisherman, with daily exposure to stagnant water and the presence of rodents, developed an acute febrile syndrome, intense myalgia, jaundice, and oliguria. IgM serology and microagglutination testing (MAT) confirmed Leptospira interrogans serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae. He received treatment with intravenous ceftriaxone and supportive care, with a favorable outcome. Conclusion: The combination of occupational risk factors, the typical clinical presentation, and serological tests allows for timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing severe complications.

Teaching Strategies to Strengthen Mathematical Thinking in the Boys and Girls of the “Rafael María Villasmil” Educational Unit

Nelmaris Barreto — 2026-05-12

Providing innovative strategies in the area of mathematics stems from the need to seek and test new methodological options that allow for improved quality in mathematical learning. The purpose of this research, framed within mathematical processes, was to apply teaching strategies to strengthen mathematical thinking in the children of the Rafael María Villasmil Educational Unit during the 2021-2022 school year. The methodology employed is framed within the Participatory Action Research modality, using the sociocritical paradigm, utilizing various techniques and instruments to collect data, such as brainstorming, cameras, roll-call votes, interviews, observations, and Ishikawa diagrams, among others. The main results show deficiencies in children's learning of the basics of mathematical processes. This situation leads to the need to work with activities that introduce mathematical processes into children's daily lives, in order to develop skills and abilities for learning arithmetic using language as a tool.

Comprehensive Management Model for the Environmental Protection of Bodies of Water in Machala

Rafael Gilberto Zhindon Almeida — 2026-05-12

This research developed and validated an environmental management model to protect water in Machala, combining quantitative analysis of water quality with qualitative assessment of community and institutional perceptions. The study is non-experimental and cross-sectional with an exploratory-descriptive scope, applying stratified probabilistic sampling for surveys (n=384), intentional sampling for semi-structured interviews and focus groups, and systematic sampling for laboratory analysis at 15 strategic points. The results revealed an ICA of 56.26 (regular range), microbiological contamination by fecal coliforms 7.5 times above the limit, pH and dissolved oxygen remained at the allowed limit. The community critically evaluated the environmental commitment (M=2.53), zero communication transparency, and the absence of formal participatory mechanisms. The proposed model articulates technical monitoring with community participation and corporate social responsibility, establishing cross-validation protocols that transcend traditional approaches; it contributes to the theoretical development of water management by demonstrating that the integration of IWRM-CSR requires deep institutional transformations to materialize benefits. The findings provide transferable tools for public companies in the water sector and set methodological precedents for the simultaneous evaluation of technical and social variables in municipal water management systems.

Assessment of Pre-Analytical Phase Quality Across Clinical Laboratories in the Valle de Aburrá - Colombia

Lina María Ospina Gallego — 2026-05-13

The pre-analytic phase covers in chronological order; From the physician's request, indication, patient preparation, obtaining the primary sample, transportation to and within the laboratory, and ending when the analytical procedure begins. The objective of this study was to evaluate quality practices in the pre-analytical phase of different clinical laboratories of the Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Aburrá. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out during, where 14 laboratories were analyzed, Secretaries, laboratory assistants, bacteriologists and physicians. As results, it was obtained that the requests for examinations are made in printed form by the attending physician in 85.7% of the laboratories, verbal requests are not made in 42.9%, If abnormalities are found in the order, it is verified with the doctor. 64.3%, the auxiliary staff is given training for the sample 71.4%, and who provides the indications for the analysis is the secretary or receptionist in 42, 9%. 87.55% of the laboratories have a manual for the pre-analytical phase and 71.4% of the auxiliaries knew the manual in the training of sampling. When there is an error in the request for the exams Errors such as patient name are given in 42.9% and verification with patients of the conditions for sampling in 85.7% of laboratories evaluated. It can be evidenced that in the laboratories surveyed the quality conditions in the processes of the pre-analytic phase must be improved since they are not being fulfilled according to the norms established by the Systems of Quality Management.

Seroprevalence of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii Immunoglobulin G in Pregnant Women Treated in Hospitals in Medellín, Colombia

José Fernando Gómez-Marín — 2026-05-13

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease of clinical and public health relevance, particularly during pregnancy. In Colombia, IgG seroprevalences of up to a 77% have been reported. Rurality and agricultural activities are factors associated with seroconversion. Despite its clinical and epidemiological impact, toxoplasmosis is an underestimated infectious disease, and it is not a notifiable event. Aim: To determine the seroprevalence of Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and factors associated with seropositivity in pregnant women treated at hospitals in Medellin from 2018 through 2020. Methods: Populations of pregnant women with high obstetric risk treated at the Bolivarian University Clinic (CUB) (n=517) and the Metrosalud E.S.E (n=1202) were analyzed. Sociodemographic, clinical, and anti-Toxoplasma IgG data were collected. Association tests between variables were performed, using the chi-square test (95% CI, p≤0.05). Results: Seroprevalences of 53.32% and 44.11% were found, and statistically significant associations were found between rural residence type and seropositivity (p=0.011 and p=0.000, respectively). The highest seroprevalences in the metropolitan area of the Aburrá valley were recorded in the northeastern, central-western, and districts of Medellín. Conclusions: A significant association was found between seropositivity and rurality, especially in areas of Medellín with limited access to health care and basic services, determining factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection.

Morphological Structure of Bryophytes Located in the Quebrada Quintero Sector, Waraira Repano, Venezuela

Franklin Núñez Ravelo — 2026-05-13

The study is part of the soil-landscape research line, focusing specifically on the characterization and ecosystem contributions of bryophytes located in Waraira Repano National Park in Venezuela, an area with anthropogenic intervention linked to visits by tourists and locals, despite being a protected area under the status of a national park. Studies on bryophytes and their ecosystem contributions are scarce, so this particular research constitutes a baseline study on the morphological structure of moss, which will contribute to understanding its role in soil quality, among other services. Its purpose is to characterize the morphological structure of bryophytes located in the Quebrada Quintero sector of Waraira Repano National Park, Venezuela. To this end, 12 samples were collected in the field between 1,100 and 1,200 meters above sea level, using a 25 x 25 cm square quadrat and selected by random digits. In the laboratory, micrographs were captured under a stereoscopic magnifying glass (20x), which were analyzed using the dichotomous key. Based on structural characteristics, it is recognized that bryophytes predominate in the study area, belonging to the Bryophyta division, leafy moss morphological group, Bryopsida class, Bryidae subclass, Bryales order, Bryaceae family, and Bryum genus. This genus, like most mosses, is essential for environmental balance, as it contributes to soil moisture retention, mitigates erosion, sequesters carbon in its biomass and in the soil, constitutes a microhabitat, and promotes pedogenesis.

Influence of the Type of Anionic Polysaccharide in the Preparation of Microcapsules. Effect of pH Change

Rafael Bolívar — 2026-05-13

Microencapsulation is a technology for coating solids, liquids and gases with materials of different nature, to create micrometric-sized capsules that can release their contents in a controlled manner under the influence of specific conditions such as pH and temperature. The choice of method depends on the size to be achieved, while the properties of the coating material depend on the polymer used, whose function is to protect the encapsulated material, as well as respond to a stimulus to subsequently release said compound. The aim of this research was to establish the effect of the type of anionic polysaccharide in a polysaccharide-protein complex on the production of microcapsules for hydrophobic compounds, when these are released under the stimulus of the pH of the medium. The microcapsules were formed by complex coacervation, forming the BSA-CMC and BSA-Pectin systems, with spherical microcapsules smaller than 60 µm. The process yield was between 80 and 84%, depending on the polysaccharide. When stimulated by changes in the pH of the medium, the encapsulated compound was released, resulting in a more sensitive BSA-Pectin complex compared to BSA-CMC. This behavior allows establishing the applicability of these complexes when hydrophobic compounds are to be released under pH stimulation.

Biology Skills of High School Students

Savier Fernando Acosta Faneite — 2026-05-13

The objective of the study was to analyze the biological competencies of third-year students in the General Secondary Education program at the Tte. Pedro Camejo National Educational Unit, located in the municipality of Mara, Zulia state, Venezuela. The study was grounded in a positive paradigm, employing a quantitative, descriptive approach with a non-experimental, cross-sectional field design. The sample consisted of 149 students and 5 biology teachers. Data collection was conducted using a survey technique, employing a 15-item questionnaire validated by three experts. The data collected were analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel. The results show that conceptual and attitudinal competencies were rated as “Almost always” (42%), considered favorable, while procedural competencies were rated as “Sometimes” (48%), considered moderately favorable. For their part, the teachers rated them at higher levels: conceptual and attitudinal competencies at “Always” (60%), as very favorable, and procedural competencies at “Almost always” (40%), as favorable. In conclusion, although positive development is observed in the conceptual and attitudinal dimensions, it is necessary to strengthen procedural competencies to consolidate students’ scientific skills.

Double Random Technique to Evaluate the Uncertainty of Safety Factor in Soils of Limit Equilibrium Methods

Manuel Felipe Brito Quijada — 2026-05-14

This article proposes a double random technique that allows the use of a random safety factor, evaluating the effects of uncertainty in geotechnical parameters in the stability analysis of slopes in soils, not considered in limit equilibrium methods. The proposed technique uses criteria from Artificial Neural Networks with Feedforward topology. Data from thirteen study sites are used for the average safety factor (ASF) analysis; a significance factor or confidence level is applied to this safety factor to ultimately obtain the minimum safety factor (MSF). The results indicate that the proposed technique provides consistent MSF results when compared with the safety factors published in the cited references.

Sustainable Maintainability: Domain Model for Integrating Green IT into Software Maintenance Phase

Ana Karina Fernandes — 2026-05-15

Software management faces a significant disconnect: current quality standards do not quantify the energy cost of technical debt during the maintenance phase. The objective of this research is to present a Domain Model that integrates Green IT principles into the maintenance processes defined by the ISO/IEC 14764 standard and the quality characteristics of ISO/IEC 25010. Methodologically, the study documents the results of the Action stage of the first cycle of an Action Research project. Following a diagnosis that revealed gaps in the literature, a conceptual model was constructed as an intervention mechanism. The results present a conceptual model in UML, which allowed for the identification of Environmental Technical Debt as the causal link between low maintainability and energy waste. A relationship is structured wherein maintenance phases not only correct faults but are also audited by an energy manager actor using physical indicators. It is concluded that the construction of this theoretical artifact is the first step toward operationalizing sustainability, which is now undergoing evaluation to define implementation objectives for future cycles.

Academic Impact of the Use of Artificial Intelligence Through Agile Software Development Teams

Wilian Richart Delgado Muentes — 2026-05-15

The general objective of this research was to determine the impact of generative artificial intelligence on the productivity and quality of the code in agile software development teams in the software engineering specialty of ULEAM, Manta core, Ecuador. The methodology adopted for the development of the research presented was framed in the quantitative paradigm, with a field design, a sample of four hundred and fifty-six (456) students in the third semester of the software engineering specialty was selected, the instrument used for the diagnosis was designed with the likert scale, it was applied via email to the students who voluntarily expressed participation in the research. The results obtained allowed us to confirm that the subjects surveyed prefer the use of development tools with agile methodologies and generative artificial intelligence, this due to the versatility and precision provided by the development of programming codes in which human errors, which are otherwise possible, are minimized. It is concluded that the majority of students are aware and are properly guided from verified sources about the benefits and potential suggested by the use of specialized applications derived from generative AI and agile methodologies.