Federal University Wukari

Background Clinical and health systems research are essential for advancing global healthcare. Engaging and training medical students in research will foster lifelong evidence-based practice, particularly for the emerging healthcare workforce. This study investigates the involvement of Nigerian medical students in research, identifying key opportunities and barriers to enhance their engagement. Methods This cross-sectional, descriptive study used an online survey targeting recent graduates from 42 accredited Nigerian medical schools. A purposive sampling approach selected one federal, state, and private institution from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Data were collected between February and June 2024 using a face-validated online questionnaire, which gathered quantitative data and free-text recommendations. The survey was distributed through WhatsApp groups. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed to explore trends in the data. Ethical approval was obtained from the Jos University Teaching Hospital ethics review board (JUTH/DCS/IREC/127/XXXI/871). Informed consent was secured from each participant prior to participation. Results Of the 429 respondents (270 men, 159 women) from 15 universities across all six zones, 92% participated in research during medical school. Men engaged in more research projects than women (p = 0.03). Most respondents participated in two projects, usually group-based, with limited individual projects. Few had presented (20%) or published (17%) their research. Proficiency was highest in developing appropriate research methodologies (54%), while data analysis was the most challenging aspect of research (42%). Participation in research was supported by adequate mentorship for most participants (64%), whereas time constraints(74%), lack of research funding (55%), and inadequate research training (31%) were the main barriers to involvement. Regional differences were noted, with the highest participation by students in the South-South geo-political zone (98%) and the lowest in the South-West (85%). Learners from the South-West had more opportunities to present research at conferences, while those from the South-East had the fewest. Participants advocated for integrating more research opportunities into the medical curriculum, emphasising early skill development, expanding mentorship and networking opportunities, and offering grants to support students in conducting innovative research. Conclusion There is a pressing need to enhance structured research opportunities in Nigerian medical education, especially for female medical students. This includes expanding access to training in data analysis, increasing publication and presentation opportunities, and integrating research skills early in the curriculum while addressing barriers like time constraints. Clinical trial number Not applicable.

In the plastic industries the commonly used additive in polyvinyl chloride plastic is dibutyl phthalate (DBP), responsible for flexibility and resilience. The risk posed by this compound to human health necessitates sensing its level in the environment as much DBP is exhaled or ingested. This study was modelled using density functional theory (DFT) at the LanL2DZ/AUTO level to understand electronic properties of silicon carbide nanotubes (SiCNTs) co‐doped with iridium, antimony, aluminium, and germanium as a sensor for DBP. To detect DBP, electronic properties (FMO, NBO, DOS), intermolecular analyses (QTAIM, NCI), adsorption studies, and sensor mechanisms were measured. Results showed narrow energy gaps, especially for DBT‐Sb‐Ir@SiCNT (0.3285 eV). QTAIM and NCI analyses identified non‐covalent interactions dominated by van der Waals forces. Adsorption studies revealed negative energies: −0.968 eV for DBT‐Sb‐Ir@SiCNT; −2.236 eV for DBT‐Ir@SiCNT; −1.205 eV for DBT‐Ge‐Ir@SiCNT; and −0.917 eV for DBT‐Al‐Ir@SiCNT. The sensor mechanism gave favorable outcomes, indicated by negative electron localization function (ELF), electron transfer fractions, and dipole moments. Addition of dopants influenced system behavior, with DBP‐Ir@SiCNT proving the best sensor, having highest adsorption energy (−2.236 eV), charge transfer ɸ = −6.3599 eV, and ∆N = −1.1×10⁻⁵ eV. This study proposes these nanostructured materials as effective DBP adsorbents.

In Nigeria, Chromolaena odorata poses significant threats to agriculture by disrupting ecosystem structure and function, thereby altering ecosystem services. However, our understanding of its impact, potential uses, and control measures, particularly from the perspective of local communities who interact directly with the plant, presents opportunities for a balanced approach to sustainable management. The aim of this study was to document the knowledge and perceptions of the introduction and spread of C. odorata, its ethnopharmacological applications, and its effects on crops, livestock, and wildlife, as well as discuss control strategies. Using participatory rural appraisal techniques, we administered semi-structured questionnaires to 150 respondents across six villages in Edo State, Nigeria. The findings reveal that C. odorata is a well-recognized invasive species that has been present for several decades and is commonly referred to by its local name, “Awolowo weed”. Although many respondents were unsure of the reasons behind its introduction, most were familiar with its mode of dispersal. A significant proportion of respondents view the weed as a serious threat to agriculture and a major hindrance to human movement by foot to and from their farmlands where C odorata is dominant. However, many also reported its relative ease of management. Interestingly, 92.7% acknowledged the medicinal value of C. odorata, citing its use in treating fever, wounds, and stomach aches, while 84% reported its ability to enhance soil fertility. Most respondents did not perceive the plant as harmful to livestock or wildlife. Though many believe that the plant has continued to spread, 83.8% oppose its complete eradication. Instead, they highlighted Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) as a more problematic weed that requires immediate intervention. In summary, exploring the local benefits of C. odorata highlights the importance of leveraging local knowledge and practices to develop a robust, integrated approach for its sustainable long-term management.

Retraction of ‘Synthesis, characterization, and theoretical studies of the photovoltaic properties of novel reactive azonitrobenzaldehyde derivatives’ by Hitler Louis et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 28433–28446, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1RA05075C.

Cholera remains a persistent public health challenge despite significant advancements in medicine and hygiene. Understanding its transmission dynamics is essential for effective control and eradication. This study develops a compartmental mathematical model to analyze the spread of Vibrio cholerae, incorporating key control measures such as treatment, natural recovery, reinfection, and environmental sanitation. The model is formulated as a system of nonlinear differential equations, representing different population compartments. A key component of the analysis is the derivation of the basic reproduction number ( R 0 ) , which serves as a threshold indicator for disease persistence. Stability analysis reveals that: ( R 0 <1 ) If, the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable, indicating eventual cholera eradication. If ( R 0 >1 ) an endemic equilibrium exists, signifying sustained cholera transmission within the population. Sensitivity analysis identifies the most influential parameters affecting ( R 0 ) , highlighting that increasing treatment rates and improving sanitation significantly reduce disease spread. The fourth order Runge–Kutta numerical scheme is implemented in MAPLE 21 to generate the numerical solutions, which demonstrate that, timely treatment, and environmental sanitation accelerates the reduction of R 0 , moving the system toward the disease-free state.

Retraction of ‘Yttrium- and zirconium-decorated Mg12O12–X (X = Y, Zr) nanoclusters as sensors for diazomethane (CH2N2) gas’ by Terkumbur E. Gber et al., RSC Adv., 2023, 13, 25391–25407, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3RA02939E.

Agricultural wastes are converted into useful products which enhance soil fertility and crop's yield; hence, reducing environmental pollution. A study was carried out to assess the maturity, phytotoxicity and organic carbon stability of biochar produced from maize cob at 500ºC as well as compost, co-composted biochar and compost + biochar produced using rice straw, dried Melina leaves, fresh mango, eucalyptus leaves and cow manure. Means of the maturity test's parameter (NH 3-N); phytotoxicity parameters such as vigor index, germination index, relative root growth, germination percentage, root length and shoot length; and carbon stability parameters such as hydrogen and hydrogen to organic carbon ratio were compared using Duncan Multiple Range test at p≥ 0.05 probability. The results of the study revealed that compost, co-composted biochar and compost + biochar were adequately matured for soil application having NH 3-N less than 75 ppm. Compost had a significantly higher (p≥0.05) germination index (93%) indicating the absence of toxic substances. Organic carbon stability results showed that biochar was the most stable of all the organic amendments in the study due to its least hydrogen to carbon ratio (0.26). Therefore, compost, biochar, co-composted biochar and compost + biochar are apt for soil application with the view to enhancing soil fertility.

Background Older adults are at risk of developing cognitive impairments, and cognitive training is commonly used to enhance cognitive function in this population. The effectiveness of cognitive training is further optimized with the integration of leisure-based activities, such as horticultural therapy. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is a lack of studies examining the effect of integrating virtual reality (VR) with leisure-based activities to provide real-world experiences and enhance cognitive outcomes in older adults. Furthermore, while immersive VR cognitive training has demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing multiple cognitive domains, methodological limitations—such as the absence of control groups or the use of passive controls—hinder the ability to draw conclusive conclusions regarding its comparative effectiveness. Objective This study conducted immersive leisure-based VR cognitive training in community-dwelling older adults to investigate its effectiveness on cognitive and physical functions. We employed an active control group in which participants received well-arranged leisure activities without focusing on cognitive components. Methods This cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in the community facilities in northern Taiwan between 2022 and 2023. The VR cognitive training group received simulated gardening activities, such as planting, fertilizing, and harvesting, and tasks involving cognitive challenges, such as producing plant essential oils, for 60 min daily, 2 days per week, for 8 weeks. The control group received non-cognitive training. The outcomes evaluated were cognitive function assessed by Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), immediate memory assessed by Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS)-Word List, working memory and mental flexibility assessed by WMS-Digit Span Forward, WMS-Digit Span Backward, and WMG-Digit Span Sequencing (DSS), and physical function assessed by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Results The study recruited 137 older adults. After VR cognitive training, higher significant improvements were seen in MoCA (p < 0.001), WMS-DSS (p = 0.015), and TUG (0.008*) compared with the control group. Conclusions This study is the first to examine the effects of fully immersive, leisure-based VR cognitive training on cognitive and physical function in community-dwelling older adults, highlighting its potential as a promising tool for promoting health compared to the non-cognitive training commonly used in community facilities.

In addressing the pressing issue of water contamination, there is a critical need for common technologies utilizing for common man with low materials. Among many treatments of waste water, adsorption is the most common and adopted because of its high efficiency. However, the use of Biochar (BC) which is a solid carbon-rich product obtained from the method of pyrolysis of the biomass in oxygen-limited or anaerobic environments. Its extensive specific surface area, porous structure, abundant surface functional groups, and elevated mineral content have led to its application in diverse fields such as energy production and the treatment of water contaminant. As a result of the limitations of pristine biochar (BC) which restrict its application in environmental remediation, an increasing number of studies have been conducted to develop BC-based composite materials. Dyes, commonly used in textile, paper, and printing industries, pose a significant challenge as organic contaminants due to their excellent solubility, complex aromatic molecular structures, and resistance to natural degradation. These colored compounds, visible to the human eye, reduce light penetration into water, leading to oxygen deprivation for aquatic organisms and causing overall water quality deterioration. Consequently, there is an urgent need for eco-friendly, cost-effective methods to treat wastewater containing dyes. In this context, biochar (BC) has emerged as a widely used material for the treatment of dye-contaminated water.

Heavy metals, medicines, personal care products (PPCPs), ammonia nitrogen, phosphate, and fluoride are among the principal contaminants that have recently attracted the attention of researchers in the field of waste treatment. Both terrestrial and aquatic habitats, especially aquatic habitats, have been reported to contain increasing concentrations of pharmaceutical contaminants. In recent years, there has been a significant effort to cure pharmaceutical contaminants. Hospital effluents, industrial byproducts, animal dung, and irrigated farmland are the most common entry points for pharmaceutical contaminants. The most devastating effect of these contaminants on all forms of life is the rise of bacteria and other microbes that are resistant to antibiotics; this phenomenon is referred to as “superbugs.” The healthcare community is worried about antibiotic resistance because it makes infections harder to treat. Both adsorption and advanced oxidation procedures (AOPs) are capable of removing chemicals with medicinal activity. It is common practice to employ carbon-based products such as activated carbon, biochar, and black carbon for the adsorptive removal of chemicals with medicinal properties. More and more people are interested in using engineered biochars (biochars that have been physically, chemically, or biologically changed) and composites of these materials to improve the efficacy of drug adsorption. Biochar offers greater economic benefits than other carbon compounds due to its excellent adsorption capacity and persulfate activation ability, as well as its inexpensive cost and ease of acquisition. The use of composites based on biochar for the extraction of medicinally active substances has been emphasised in this chapter. On top of that, we have outlined the primary assault sites on several pharmaceutical pollutants and the biochar adsorption mechanism for a number of these contaminants.

The global issue of heavy metals, hydrocarbons, pesticides, insecticides, and other agrochemical pollutants in food is exacerbated by their persistence, bioaccumulation, potential toxicity, and non-biodegradability, particularly concerning heavy metals. Agrochemicals, primarily used in livestock and crop cultivation, aim to mitigate losses from pest infestations and increase crop yields. The process of carbonizing wood for biochar production has been known to humanity since ancient times. Utilizing waste resources, advanced biochar technology has the potential to meet future energy needs and enhance soil carbon sequestration. Three commonly employed technologies in biochar production include fast pyrolysis, slow pyrolysis, and carbonization and gasification. Biochar (BC) has gained significant attention as a potential absorbent for controlling contaminants and purifying water due to its high surface area, porosity, and abundance of functional groups. However, the challenge of separating BC from water due to its low density and small particle size has restricted its applications. To address these issues, researchers have explored the development of BC-based 2D membranes, particularly in the form of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) that combine BC with a polymeric matrix. The applications in the environmental remediation of inorganic pollutants provides a comprehensive overview of innovative strategies involving BC-based materials, emphasizing their preparation methods, properties, pollution removal performance, and adsorption mechanism.

Biochar is the solid material formed from the thermal conversion of biomass feedstocks under oxygen-limited conditions. Biochar is known for its highly developed porous structures, rich functional groups diversified inorganic nutrients, and high carbon stability. The use of biochar composite as a soil amendment has great potential due to its numerous beneficial qualities in the domains of agriculture and environmental remediation. Recently, there has been a growing recognition of the significance of soil health in the sustainable utilization of crucial soil resources and the resolution of soil limits. This recognition has sparked a global shift in traditional soil usage and management practices towards more sustainable strategies. Thus, the use of engineered biochar composites has attracted considerable attention in recent years. Our study reveals four distinct and important issues that require focused attention in future research initiatives. This presents a visual depiction of a particular notion or phenomenon. An important observation in the field is the remarkable simplicity with which biochar composites can be synthesized.

The extensive use of pesticides has raised concerns about environmental contamination, which poses potential health risks to humans and aquatic life. Hence, the need for a healthy and friendly ecosystem initiated this study, which was modeled through profound density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP-D3(BJ)/def2svp level of theory to gain insights into the electronic characteristics of germanium-doped graphitic carbon nitride (Ge@C3N4) engineered with nickel group transition metals (Ni, Pt, and Pd) as sensors for diazinon (DZN), an organophosphorus pesticide pollutant. To effectively sense diazinon, this research employed a variety of methodologies, beginning with the analysis of electronic properties, intermolecular investigations, adsorption studies, and sensor mechanisms. These detailed assessments revealed insightful results, as clearly indicated by their narrow energy gap and other electronic properties. Noncovalent interactions characterized by van der Waals forces were revealed predominantly by quantum atoms in molecules (QTAIM) and noncovalent interaction (NCI) analyses. Furthermore, the results of the adsorption studies, which measured the strength of the interaction between the pesticide molecules and the nanostructures, revealed favorable results characterized by negative adsorption energies of − 1.613, − 1.613, and − 1.599 eV for DZN_Ge@C3N4, DZN_Ni_Ge@C3N4, and DZN_Pd_Ge@C3N4, respectively. The simulated mechanism through which diazinon is sensed revealed favorable results, as observed by the negative Fermi energy and fraction of electron transfer (∆N), as well as a high dipole moment. This study also revealed that the codoping influenced the behavior of the systems, revealing that DZN_Ni_Ge@C3N4 was the best sensing system because of its strongest adsorption (− 1.613 eV), highest dipole moment (8.348 D), most negative Fermi energy (− 1.300 eV), lowest work function (1.300 eV), and good ∆N (− 1.558) values. This study, therefore, proposes these nanostructures for further in vitro studies seeking to sense diazinon and other pesticides to maintain healthy ecosystems. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13065-025-01436-y.

Despite the natural resource wealth and human capital development efforts in sub-Saharan African (SSA) nations, poor access to efficient cooking options persist. Hence, this study examined the role of natural resource wealth and human capital development in driving clean cooking fuel and technology transition in 37 SSA countries. Data spanning from 2000 to 2023 was used and analysed through the method of moment quantile regression estimation technique. A novelty of the study is the explicit disaggregation of the effects into three levels including the aggregate, urban, and rural impacts for comparison. Findings from the study revealed that while natural resource endowment and human capital positively enhanced access to efficient cooking energy, the impact of human capital development is more pronounced. However, the effect of the interaction between natural resource wealth and human capital on access to efficient cooking options was significantly adverse at divergent levels in the three estimates. Also, the moderating role of income was found to weakly impact on clean cooking fuel in the aggregate and urban outcomes, but was substantial and negative in predicting efficient cooking means in the rural estimate. Conversely, population growth negatively impacted clean cooking options in the aggregate and urban estimates, while its effect was positive in the rural output. Thus, drawing from the aforesaid findings, policy measures to promote the transitioning from dirty cooking energy to efficient modern means were proposed in the study. JEL Classification: I31, N57, O18.

Background: Clinical and health systems research is essential for advancing global healthcare. Engaging and training medical students in research will foster lifelong evidence-based practice, particularly for the emerging healthcare workforce. This study investigates the involvement of Nigerian medical students in research, identifying key opportunities and barriers to enhance their engagement. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive, mixed-methods study used an online survey targeting recent graduates from 42 accredited Nigerian medical schools. A purposive sampling approach selected one federal, state, and private institution from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Data were collected between February and June 2024 using a face-validated online questionnaire distributed via WhatsApp groups. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed to explore trends in the data. Ethical approval was obtained by the Jos University Teaching Hospital ethics review board (JUTH/DCS/IREC/127/XXXI/871), and participants provided informed consent. Results: Of the 429 respondents (270 men, 159 women) from 15 universities across all six zones, 92% participated in research during medical school. Men engaged in more research projects than women (p=0.03). Most respondents participated in two projects, usually group-based, with limited individual projects. Few had presented (20%) or published (17%) their research. Proficiency was highest in developing appropriate research methodologies (54%), while data analysis was the most challenging aspect of research (42%). Participation in research was supported by adequate mentorship for most participants (64%), whereas time constraints(74%), lack of research funding (55%), and inadequate research training (31%) were the main barriers to involvement. Regional differences were noted, with the highest participation by students in the South-South geo-political zone (98%) and the lowest in the South-West (85%). Learners from the South-West had more opportunities to present research at conferences, while those from the South-East had the fewest. Participants advocated for integrating more research opportunities into the medical curriculum, emphasising early skill development. Conclusion: There is a pressing need to enhance structured research opportunities in Nigerian medical education, especially for women. This includes expanding access to training in data analysis, increasing publication and presentation opportunities, and integrating research skills early in the curriculum while addressing barriers like time constraints. Clinical trial number : not applicable.

Background Infectious diseases, including malaria, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and Hepatitis C virus (HCV), remain significant public health concerns in developing regions like Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Socio-demographic factors, such as gender, age, income level, and access to healthcare resources, have been shown to influence the prevalence and outcomes of these diseases. Despite their importance, there is limited research exploring the interrelationship between these infections and socio-demographic factors within this region. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV among patients in Lafia, Nigeria, and to examine the relationship between these infections and socio-demographic factors. Specifically, it seeks to identify correlations between demographic variables, clinical manifestations, and health behaviors, such as mosquito net usage and vaccination status. Method A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 264 patients from Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaires which were pretested in a previous study to gather demographic information, vaccination status, and clinical symptoms. Laboratory assessments confirmed the presence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV. Statistical analysis, including correlations between socio-demographic factors and disease prevalence were analyzed, and used to identify associations between socio-demographic factors, clinical manifestations, and disease prevalence. Results Significant findings include a negative correlation between male sex and malaria infection (Pearson Correlation = -0.139, p = 0.024), a positive correlation between age and HCV prevalence (Pearson Correlation = 0.218, p < 0.001), and a negative correlation between the use of mosquito nets and malaria infection (Pearson Correlation = -0.231, p < 0.001). Additionally, HBsAg-positive individuals exhibited more pronounced clinical symptoms (Pearson Correlation = 0.173, p = 0.005), while higher income levels correlated with reduced mosquito net usage (Pearson Correlation = -0.144, p = 0.020). The study underscores the role of socio-demographic factors in shaping the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV. Conclusion This study highlights the interplay between socio-demographic factors and the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV in Lafia, Nigeria. It underscores the importance of comprehensive public health interventions tailored to the specific needs of the population to reduce disease burden and improve health outcomes, including health education, to address socio-economic vulnerabilities and promote preventive measures such as mosquito net usage. Addressing these factors could mitigate the burden of infectious diseases in Lafia and similar regions.

The agriculture sector is currently facing several challenges, including the growing global human population, depletion of natural resources, reduction of arable land, rapidly changing climate, and the frequent occurrence of human diseases such as Ebola, Lassa, Zika, Nipah, and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges pose a threat to global food and nutritional security and place pressure on the scientific community to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG2), which aims to eradicate hunger and malnutrition. Technological advancement plays a significant role in enhancing our understanding of the agricultural system and its interactions from the cellular level to the green field level for the benefit of humanity. The use of remote sensing (RS), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) approaches is highly advantageous for producing precise and accurate datasets to develop management tools and models. These technologies are beneficial for understanding soil types, efficiently managing water, optimizing nutrient application, designing forecasting and early warning models, protecting crops from plant diseases and insect pests, and detecting threats such as locusts. The application of RS, AI, and ML algorithms is a promising and transformative approach to improve the resilience of agriculture against biotic and abiotic stresses and achieve sustainability to meet the needs of the ever-growing human population. In this article covered the leveraging AI algorithms and RS data, and how these technologies enable real time monitoring, early detection, and accurate forecasting of pest outbreaks. Furthermore, discussed how these approaches allows for more precise, targeted pest control interventions, reducing the reliance on broad spectrum pesticides and minimizing environmental impact. Despite challenges in data quality and technology accessibility, the integration of AI and RS holds significant potential in revolutionizing pest management.

Nonpathogenic microorganisms are known to be part of the normal gut microflora of animals and specifically play vital roles in fish physiology. They have wide-ranging bioactive molecules with high potential to fish’s general health. However, in some instances, it has been reported that irregular gut microbial interactions, pH, and nutrient fluctuations limit the potential activities and benefits of gut microflora. Therefore, as an alternative, the bioactive molecules of this nonpathogenic organism are biotechnologically harnessed and processed for use as additives in fish feeds, by identifying, mass culturing, extracting their extracellular metabolites, and processing them into storable forms for subsequent use. The biotechnology of producing extracellular metabolites from living things, in particular, microorganisms, is now feasible from previously identified and characterized nonpathogenic isolates. Biotechnological applications use biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific purposes essentially targeted at benefitting humans as end users. Research has shown that optimization of microbial growth and extraction of their metabolites for therapeutic and nutritional purposes are now gaining more relevance and adding high value to aquaculture production, concerning aquaculture nutritional biotechniques. They can secrete a full complement of secondary metabolic products which are known to be effective therapeutics such as antibiotics, growth promoters such as amino acids, and other biomolecules like enzymes that catalyze metabolism. This chapter therefore focuses on the sources, types, and uses of metabolites. The nutrient requirements of microbial growth, biotechnological, and bioeconomic relevance will also be discussed for sustainable activities in the Global South.