Traektoria Nauki
Not a member yet
1424 research outputs found
Sort by
Determinants of Antenatal Care Utilisation Among Pregnant Women in Nigeria
Get PDFMaternal mortality remains a major public health and socioeconomic challenge, with Nigeria contributing disproportionately to the global maternal death index. Although largely preventable, many women, especially in rural areas, face barriers such as limited access to skilled care, cultural practices, poverty, and inadequate health infrastructure. This study examines the determinants of antenatal care (ANC) utilisation among pregnant women in the Makurdi area of Nigeria, focusing on awareness, socioeconomic and health system factors, and cultural influences. The researchers used a descriptive survey design guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM). The researchers selected a sample of 300 pregnant women aged 18–45 years from a study population of 1,327 women registered for ANC. Data were collected through systematic and simple random sampling from three major facilities — Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre Wadata, and Bishop Murray Medical Centre — using a validated, structured questionnaire. Results show high awareness of ANC services, but utilisation is limited by socioeconomic constraints (spousal support, transport, and work schedules), health system challenges (accessibility and quality of facilities), and cultural beliefs (patriarchal control and religious restrictions). The study concludes that while ANC is essential, socioeconomic and cultural barriers in Nigeria, particularly in Makurdi, hinder effective utilisation. It recommends community-based education, financial support for ANC, improved healthcare facilities and staffing, and culturally sensitive programs that engage community leaders to address these barriers
Phytochemical Screening of Ficus globosa Latex (Moraceae) as a Source of Novel Antimicrobial Compounds
Get PDFThe emergence of antimicrobial resistance has necessitated the search for novel therapeutic agents from natural sources. This study evaluated the phytochemical composition of Ficus globosa latex and assessed its antimicrobial activity against selected pathogenic microorganisms. Latex was collected, authenticated, and processed through acetone precipitation followed by drying at 60°C for three weeks. Both fresh and dried latex samples underwent phytochemical screening using standard methods, revealing abundant quantities of resins, steroids, and terpenoids; moderate levels of flavonoids; and trace amounts of fats, oils, and hydrolysable glycosides. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against eight pathogenic microorganisms. The dried latex demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 3.89 mg/mL against Bacillus subtilis, 14.79 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus, and 8.13 mg/mL against Aspergillus niger. In contrast, fresh latex showed activity only against B. subtilis. F. globosa latex exhibits promising antimicrobial activity, particularly against gram-positive bacteria, warranting further investigation for therapeutic applications. The presence of multiple bioactive compounds suggests potential mechanisms for its antimicrobial effects
The Influence of Debt Administration on Nigerian Economic Development (2014-2023)
Get PDFThis research examines how debt administration practices affected Nigeria's economic development during the decade spanning 2014-2023. The investigation examines the relationships between four key financial indicators—foreign borrowing, internal debt, currency valuation rates, and lending rates—and their combined impact on actual gross domestic product. Employing a retrospective research methodology with information collected from twelve industrial sectors listed on Nigeria's Exchange Group, the study utilised standard linear regression techniques for data evaluation. The results demonstrated that all independent variables displayed negative coefficients (-0.1884, -0.0677, -0.2006, and -0.2341, respectively), indicating an inverse correlation with economic expansion. However, these relationships lacked statistical significance at the conventional 0.05 threshold (p-values: 0.424, 0.634, 0.388, and 0.149). Nevertheless, the collective F-statistic value of 4.39 confirms that debt administration practices have a significant influence on Nigeria's overall economic performance. The research concludes that current Nigerian debt management strategies have hurt economic growth and recommends directing borrowed resources toward productive enterprises, emphasising infrastructure improvement, carefully controlling external credit acquisition, regularly assessing debt composition, and enhancing transparency in financial obligation management to foster sustainable economic development.
Addressing Misconceptions and Promoting Inclusive Care: A Comparative Review of Conventional and Traditional Medicine in Mental Health Management
Get PDFManagement of mental conditions remains challenging, especially in rural areas and among people with little or no mental health literacy. Misconceptions regarding conventional psychiatric remedies, such as the assumption that psychiatric medicine leads to lifelong dependence on medication, prevent people from getting appropriate care. By contrasting traditional medicine approaches to mental health management, this review strives to dispel myths and foster inclusive care that is culturally sensitive. This review emphasises blending conventional medical approaches to deliver comprehensive, scientifically validated care. The review also highlights the importance of community-based education, increased access to mental health services, and collaborative care models focusing on evidence-based medicine
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Addressing Global Education Inequality
Get PDFArtificial intelligence (AI) is among the most significant technologies around the globe today and is already in operation daily. It is capable of making learning and teaching more innovative and efficient. This paper discusses the role of Artificial Intelligence in addressing global educational inequalities. It noted personalising learning as one of how artificial intelligence can resolve the issue of global inequity. It emphasised that providing data-driven insights, optimal allocation of resources, and the ability to identify and support students with learning disability are some of how artificial intelligence can solve the problem of global education inequality. There are a few challenges in implementing AI, such as data privacy and security, cost, maintenance of infrastructure, and overreliance on AI. Notwithstanding, AI can ensure that students worldwide have equal education opportunities
Новітній інструментарій стратегічного управління транспортним комплексом України в умовах діджиталізації
Get PDFThe article examines the relevant aspects of strategic management of Ukraine's transport complex in the context of digitalisation. The study aims to identify modern tools for strategic management in the transport field and analyse the dynamics of its digitalisation using the example of key indicators. The study hypothesises that using the latest strategic management tools based on digital technologies contributes to improving the efficiency of Ukraine's transport sector, ensuring its adaptability, competitiveness, and sustainability in a dynamic digital environment.The scientific and practical significance of introducing digital technologies as a factor in improving the efficiency of transport enterprises in a dynamic market is substantiated. The study systematises statistical data on the use of digital management tools: in particular, the dynamics of the share of enterprises that have websites, use social media, implement ERP, CRM and BI systems, analyse big data, use cloud computing and apply artificial intelligence technologies.The author analyses the pace of digital technology adoption in 2018-2024 and identifies the main barriers to digital transformation, including lack of investment, poor digital competence of staff, and lack of an enabling environment. At the same time, the author focuses on the existing opportunities for digitalisation: increasing the availability of cloud services, expanding digital infrastructure and adapting enterprises to new technological solutions. It is proved that increasing the level of automation and digital openness of enterprises is a prerequisite for forming effective strategic management in the transport sector. The conclusions provide specific recommendations on the priority areas of state and corporate policy in the digital transformation of the transport sector.The scientific and practical value of the work lies in substantiating the need to integrate digital solutions into the strategic management of the transport sector, taking into account the specifics of its development in Ukraine.У статті досліджено актуальні аспекти стратегічного управління транспортним комплексом України в умовах діджиталізації. Метою роботи є ідентифікація сучасного інструментарію стратегічного управління у сфері транспорту та аналіз динаміки його цифровізації на прикладі ключових індикаторів. Гіпотеза дослідження передбачає, що використання новітнього інструментарію стратегічного управління на основі цифрових технологій сприяє підвищенню ефективності функціонування транспортного комплексу України, забезпечуючи його адаптивність, конкурентоспроможність і сталість розвитку в умовах динамічного цифрового середовища.Обґрунтовано науково-практичну значущість впровадження цифрових технологій як чинника підвищення ефективності функціонування транспортних підприємств в умовах динамічного ринку. У процесі дослідження систематизовано статистичні дані щодо використання цифрових інструментів управління: зокрема, динаміку частки підприємств, що мають вебсайти, використовують соціальні медіа, впроваджують ERP, CRM та BI-системи, проводять аналіз великих даних, користуються хмарними обчисленнями та застосовують технології штучного інтелекту.Проаналізовано темпи впровадження цифрових технологій у 2018-2024 роках, виявлено основні бар’єри цифрової трансформації, серед яких – нестача інвестицій, слабка цифрова компетентність персоналу, відсутність стимулюючого середовища. Водночас акцентовано увагу на наявних можливостях цифровізації: зростанні доступності хмарних послуг, розширенні цифрової інфраструктури та адаптації підприємств до нових технологічних рішень. Доведено, що підвищення рівня автоматизації та цифрової відкритості підприємств є необхідною умовою для формування ефективного стратегічного управління в галузі транспорту. У висновках подано конкретні рекомендації щодо пріоритетних напрямів державної та корпоративної політики у сфері цифрової трансформації транспортного сектору.Науково-практична цінність роботи полягає в обґрунтуванні потреби інтеграції цифрових рішень у стратегічне управління транспортним комплексом з урахуванням специфіки його розвитку в Україні
Cryptosporidiosis in HIV/AIDS Patients: A Review of Species Distribution and Genetic Diversity in Nigeria
Get PDFCryptosporidium, a protozoan parasite, is a significant cause of diarrheal diseases and mortality among HIV/AIDS patients in Nigeria. This review synthesises existing publications to provide a comprehensive overview of Cryptosporidium species diversity, genetic variability, and factors influencing their distribution in Nigerian HIV/AIDS patients. Studies reveal a high diversity of Cryptosporidium species, with C. hominis and C. parvum being the most frequently identified, followed by C. canis, C. felis, C. meleagridis, and C. viatorum. Molecular techniques such as PCR-RFLP and DNA sequencing have enabled the identification of various subtypes within these species. Multiple environmental factors, such as the water source, human-animal contact, hygiene practices, and the host's immune status, influence genetic diversity. Clinical implications of this diversity include variations in disease severity, progression, treatment efficacy, and diagnostic challenges. Public health concerns arise from the parasite's high infectivity, environmental resilience, and contribution to morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised individuals. Control strategies should prioritise water, sanitation, hygiene promotion, consistent antiretroviral therapy, and a One Health approach. Future research must address knowledge gaps in molecular epidemiology, transmission dynamics, clinical outcomes, and targeted interventions to combat cryptosporidiosis among HIV/AIDS patients in Nigeria effectively.
Effect of Intercropping with Mungbean on Growth, Yield and Seed Protein Of White And Black Waxy Maise
Get PDFThis study aims to determine the effect of intercropping on the growth, yield, and protein content of glutinous corn. This study used an experimental method with field trials in rainfed land in Rembitan village (Central Lombok) in December 2023-March 2024. The research design employed a Randomised Block Design (RBD) with two factors: White glutinous corn (J1) and purple glutinous corn (J2), with two treatments: without intercropping (T0) and with mung bean intercropping (T1). The researchers combined all factors to create four combinations, each replicated three times, resulting in a total of 12 experimental units. Observation variables include growth, yield and protein. Growth variables include plant height (TT) and the number of leaves (JD). Yield variables include the number of cob rows (JBT), the weight of 100 corn kernels per gram (BJ100/g), cob diameter (DT), weight of the cob without husk (BTTK), cob length (PT), and protein content (PrT).The results showed that the interaction of intercropping treatment with glutinous corn significantly affected the parameters of JD 42 and 56 hst, cob length, cob diameter, number of rows, weight of 100 grains, and cob weight. The most significant number of leaves was observed in the T1J1 treatment at 56 hst, with 14.55 strands. The longest cob size was observed in the intercropping treatment with white glutinous corn, measuring 18.20 cm, while the diameter of the purple corn cob was 47.90 cm. The researchers found that the T1J1 treatment produced the highest number of rows, 14.45, and a 100-grain weight of 23.04 g, followed by a cob weight of 140.19 g and seed protein content of 4.89%. Based on their results, they concluded that applying intercropping planting patterns can significantly enhance the growth, yield, and protein content of glutinous corn. Specifically, intercropping green beans with white glutinous corn resulted in the highest growth and yield, while intercropping with purple glutinous corn neither contributed to nor affected growth and yield
Advances in Sustainable Geotechnical Engineering: A Review of Bio-mediated Soil Stabilisation, Cellular Confinement Systems, and Waste-Based Soil Improvements
Get PDFThe growing demand for sustainable infrastructure has accelerated the evolution of environmentally responsible practices in geotechnical engineering. Traditional soil improvement techniques, particularly those dependent on cement and lime, are associated with high carbon emissions, significant energy consumption, and long-term ecological consequences. In response, a new generation of green technologies has emerged, aiming to enhance soil performance while minimising environmental costs. This review explores three innovative approaches to sustainable ground improvement: bio-mediated soil stabilisation with a focus on Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP), Cellular Confinement Systems (CCS), and waste-based soil improvement techniques. Bio-mediated methods offer biologically driven alternatives to chemical binders by promoting calcite precipitation, which strengthens soil and reduces erosion with a relatively low carbon footprint. CCS systems increase mechanical stability by redistributing loads through a geocellular matrix, often composed of recyclable or biodegradable materials. Waste-based improvements leverage industrial, agricultural, and construction-derived by-products such as fly ash, rice husk ash, and recycled concrete aggregates to enhance soil properties while advancing circular economy goals and reducing dependence on virgin resources. A comparative assessment highlights that each technique exhibits distinct advantages and limitations in terms of performance, environmental impact, scalability, and field applicability. Key challenges include regulatory uncertainty, material variability, and questions about long-term durability. Future directions point toward hybrid approaches that integrate multiple methods, AI-enabled monitoring systems to optimise treatment outcomes, and supportive policies that encourage widespread implementation. Taken together, these advancements mark a significant transition toward more resilient, efficient, and sustainable geotechnical engineering practices
Cohesion in A Spell of Good Things by Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀
Get PDFThis study investigates the role of cohesion in Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀'s A Spell of Good Things, using Halliday and Hasan's (1976) theory of cohesion as a framework. The research aims to analyze how lexical and referential cohesion contribute to the narrative coherence and thematic expression in the novel. Cohesion, a key linguistic mechanism, is explored through various devices, including repetition, synonymy, collocation, and reference, which link different parts of the text and reinforce key themes such as poverty, political corruption, and social inequality. The study highlights the distinction between cohesion and coherence, noting that while cohesion ensures structural unity, coherence is achieved through the reader’s interpretation. Through a detailed textual analysis, the research demonstrates how Adébáyọ̀ employs cohesive devices to maintain the flow of the plot, deepen character development, and engage readers emotionally. Lexical cohesion, particularly through thematic repetition of words like "school fees," "poverty," and "hunger," effectively anchors the narrative in the socio-political realities of contemporary Nigeria. Referential cohesion, achieved through pronouns, demonstratives, and proper nouns, facilitates smooth transitions between characters and events, ensuring that readers remain engaged and oriented throughout the story. The findings suggest that cohesive devices are not only essential for textual organization but also contribute significantly to the novel's emotional depth and socio-political critique. The research adds to the field of discourse analysis by illustrating the importance of cohesion in African literature and offering insights into the linguistic strategies that shape reader experience and meaning construction in Nigerian fiction