University of Benin

The pursuit of sustainable ecological recovery strategies for marine environments stands as a critical endeavor. This chapter explores the multifaceted approaches aimed at restoring and preserving the health and functionality of marine ecosystems. By employing scientific methodologies and integrating ecological principles, researchers and policymakers strive to mitigate anthropogenic impacts and foster the resilience of marine habitats. Ecological recovery pertains to the process by which a disturbed or degraded ecosystem undergoes restoration to a state of ecological balance and functionality. In the context of marine environments, recovery efforts seek to reverse the detrimental effects of human activities such as pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change. Successful ecological recovery involves not only the reinstatement of biodiversity but also the reestablishment of ecological processes and functions essential for ecosystem stability. Habitat loss and degradation represent significant threats to marine biodiversity. Restoration initiatives focus on rehabilitating degraded habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and wetlands. Techniques range from replanting native vegetation to artificial reef construction, aiming to enhance habitat complexity and provide refuge for marine species. Pollution from sources such as industrial runoff, agricultural runoff, oil spills, and plastic debris poses serious challenges to marine ecosystems. Sustainable recovery strategies involve implementing pollution control measures, promoting waste reduction and recycling, and employing remediation techniques such as bioremediation and sediment dredging to mitigate the impacts of contaminants. Unsustainable fishing practices, including overfishing and bycatch, threaten the long-term viability of marine fisheries and the health of aquatic ecosystems. Effective fisheries management strategies encompass measures such as establishing marine protected areas, implementing quotas and regulations, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and reducing discards and ghost fishing gear. Climate change–induced stressors, such as rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events, challenge the resilience of marine ecosystems. Sustainable recovery strategies involve enhancing ecosystem resilience through measures such as promoting habitat connectivity, facilitating species range shifts, and implementing adaptive management approaches to accommodate changing environmental conditions. Meaningful engagement with local communities, indigenous peoples, stakeholders, and resource users is essential for the success of ecological recovery initiatives. Collaborative approaches that integrate traditional ecological knowledge with scientific expertise foster greater community ownership, support, and participation in marine conservation efforts. Sustainable ecological recovery strategies for marine environments require a holistic and interdisciplinary approach that addresses the complex interplay of ecological, social, economic, and political factors. By embracing innovation, cooperation, and adaptive management principles, we can chart a course toward a future where marine ecosystems thrive in harmony with human activities. Through concerted efforts and collective stewardship, we can safeguard the integrity and resilience of marine environments for present and future generations.

This chapter scrutinizes the effects of vibrations stemming from various anthropogenic activities, including dredging, exploration, transportation, and drilling, on benthic bioresources. Dredging operations involve the removal of sediment and debris from water bodies to maintain navigation channels, construct ports, or extract valuable minerals. These activities generate vibrations that propagate through the water column and sediment, potentially impacting benthic organisms residing on the seabed. The analysis delves into the specific mechanisms through which dredging-induced vibrations affect benthic bioresources, such as disrupting sediment stability, altering hydrodynamic conditions, and causing physical damage to benthic habitats. Exploration activities, including seismic surveys and sonar mapping, emit high-intensity sound waves into the water column, generating vibrations that can propagate over long distances. These vibrations have the potential to disturb benthic organisms, including fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals, leading to changes in behavior, distribution, and reproductive success. This chapter examines the ecological implications of exploration-induced vibrations on benthic bioresources and evaluates potential mitigation measures to minimize adverse effects. Transportation activities, such as ship traffic and maritime operations, also contribute to underwater vibrations, particularly in busy shipping lanes and harbors. These vibrations can reverberate through the water column and sediment, affecting benthic organisms in the vicinity. The analysis assesses the impacts of transportation-induced vibrations on benthic bioresources, including changes in habitat use, species composition, and community structure. Drilling activities, such as oil and gas exploration and extraction, involve the use of heavy machinery and equipment that generate vibrations both above and below the water surface. These vibrations can penetrate the seafloor, disrupting benthic communities and habitats. This chapter evaluates the effects of drilling-induced vibrations on benthic bioresources, including sediment disturbance, habitat degradation, and alterations in ecosystem functioning. This chapter thus provides a comprehensive analysis of the diverse impacts of vibrations from dredging, exploration, transportation, and drilling activities on benthic bioresources. By elucidating the mechanisms and ecological consequences of these anthropogenic disturbances, the analysis aims to inform decision-making and management strategies aimed at minimizing harm to benthic ecosystems and promoting sustainable use of marine resources.

This chapter provides a comprehensive examination of the impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics on Arctic marine fauna within the context of biodiversity conservation efforts. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, and nanoplastics, even smaller particles at the nanometer scale, have become pervasive pollutants in the Arctic marine environment, posing significant threats to marine organisms and ecosystems. This chapter begins by elucidating the sources and pathways of microplastics and nanoplastics in the Arctic marine environment. These particles originate from various anthropogenic sources, including plastic debris fragmentation, microbeads in personal care products, and the breakdown of synthetic fibers from textiles. Despite their small size, microplastics and nanoplastics have the potential to accumulate in Arctic waters and sediments, where they persist for long periods. Next, this chapter delves into the ecological impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics on Arctic marine fauna. These particles can be ingested by a wide range of marine organisms, including zooplankton, fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. Once ingested, microplastics and nanoplastics can cause physical harm, blockages in the digestive tract, and internal injuries. Additionally, these particles can adsorb and concentrate toxic chemicals, such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals, posing additional risks to marine organisms through chemical exposure and bioaccumulation. Furthermore, this chapter explores the implications of microplastic and nanoplastic pollution for biodiversity conservation efforts in the Arctic. Marine fauna in the Arctic region are integral components of complex ecosystems, and their well-being is crucial for maintaining ecosystem balance and resilience. The presence of microplastics and nanoplastics can disrupt marine food webs, alter species interactions, and degrade habitat quality, ultimately threatening the biodiversity of Arctic marine ecosystems. In light of these challenges, this chapter discusses strategies for mitigating the impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics on Arctic marine fauna and promoting biodiversity conservation. These strategies may include measures to reduce plastic consumption, improve waste management practices, enhance recycling efforts, and promote the use of biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics. Additionally, this chapter emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary research, monitoring programs, and public awareness campaigns to address the complex issues surrounding microplastic and nanoplastic pollution in the Arctic marine environment. By shedding light on the impacts of microplastics and nanoplastics on Arctic marine fauna within the context of biodiversity conservation efforts, this chapter aims to raise awareness, inform policymaking, and mobilize action to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Arctic and preserve the rich biodiversity they support. Through collaborative efforts and concerted action, we can strive toward a future where Arctic marine fauna thrive in a clean and healthy environment.

Coral reefs are vital marine ecosystems that harbor a significant proportion of the ocean’s biodiversity. However, these ecosystems are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases leading to climate change and ocean acidification. Ocean acidification refers to the reduction in pH of marine waters due to the absorption of CO₂ from the atmosphere, forming carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), which dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO₃−) and hydrogen ions (H+), thus lowering pH. This sequence of reactions leads to an increase in hydrogen ion concentration, causing a decrease in pH. The reduction in carbonate ions (CO₃2−) is particularly detrimental to marine calcifiers, including corals, which rely on carbonate for the formation of their calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) skeletons. Coral reefs are constructed by the deposition of CaCO₃ by coral polyps. Zooxanthellae, symbiotic algae living within coral tissues, provide essential nutrients through photosynthesis, facilitating calcification. Acidification disrupts this symbiotic relationship by impairing photosynthetic efficiency and reducing the availability of carbonate ions necessary for skeletal growth. As ocean acidification progresses, the concentration of carbonate ions diminishes, making it energetically more challenging for corals to secrete their skeletons, thereby slowing growth rates and compromising structural integrity. Coral bleaching occurs when corals, under stress, expel their zooxanthellae, leading to a loss of pigmentation and a decline in energy reserves. Stressors include elevated sea temperatures, pollution, and acidification. The loss of zooxanthellae not only deprives corals of their primary food source but also disrupts calcification processes. Thermal stress is a predominant factor in coral bleaching. Elevated sea temperatures can destabilize the photosynthetic machinery of zooxanthellae, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage both the algae and coral tissues. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures exacerbates acidification effects, intensifying bleaching events. The decline in coral health due to bleaching and acidification has profound ecological impacts, including the loss of habitat for numerous marine species, reduced biodiversity, and compromised fisheries. Socioeconomically, coral reef degradation affects tourism, coastal protection, and the livelihoods of communities dependent on reef resources. Reduction of CO₂ emissions through global policy agreements and renewable energy adoption. Local conservation efforts, such as marine protected areas (MPAs) have the potentials to enhance reef resilience. Conservation efforts may be complemented by research into coral species and strains with higher tolerance to acidification and thermal stress, potentially involving selective breeding and genetic modification. Marine water acidification and coral bleaching are intricately linked phenomena driven by anthropogenic climate change. The decline of coral reefs signals a broader environmental crisis that necessitates urgent scientific, policy, and community responses to mitigate adverse effects and foster adaptive resilience in marine ecosystems.

Arctic marine communities play a crucial role in regulating ecosystem dynamics, but human-induced contamination threatens their delicate balance. Contaminants like persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals, and hydrocarbons infiltrate these pristine environments, altering the dynamic community composition and diversity. Studies reveal altered community composition in contaminated sites, impacting ecosystem health and resilience. The disruption of community structure in Arctic marine ecosystems has cascading effects on nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and energy flow. Synergistic effects of multiple stressors, including climate change and habitat degradation, exacerbate these impacts. Understanding spatial and temporal variability in these communities is essential for accurately assessing contamination effects. Contaminated seafood poses significant health risks, especially for indigenous communities reliant on traditional marine resources. Addressing these risks requires integrated approaches considering both environmental and human health perspectives. Incorporating indigenous knowledge into environmental management enriches our understanding and effectiveness in pollution mitigation. Policy frameworks and governance structures play a crucial role in regulating pollutant emissions and enforcing food safety standards. Future research should focus on elucidating contaminant transfer pathways, assessing emerging pollutants’ health effects, and developing innovative pollution prevention strategies. Interdisciplinary collaborations among scientists, policymakers, indigenous communities, and stakeholders are crucial for promoting sustainable management practices and safeguarding Arctic marine ecosystems and human populations from pollution’s adverse effects.

The Arctic marine environment is vulnerable to accumulation of toxic contaminants due to atmospheric and oceanic long-range transport and biodegradation resistance. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated flame retardants, and certain pesticides bioaccumulate and biomagnify in Arctic marine food webs. Their lipophilic nature causes them to concentrate in fatty tissues of organisms. Some currently used chemicals that are not yet regulated as POPs, like certain polyfluorinated substances, are also being detected in the Arctic. Metals like mercury, cadmium, and lead reach the Arctic through atmospheric transport of particulates from industrial activities at lower latitudes. In the Arctic, these metals deposit and enter marine food webs through bioaccumulation in plankton and fish. Methylmercury, an organic form that bioaccumulates to a greater degree, is produced by natural processes, but its formation is enhanced by human activities. Indigenous Arctic populations are exposed to accumulated toxicants through their reliance on traditional foods like marine mammals and fish, raising public health concerns. Monitoring programs have revealed temporal trends and hot spots of contamination. As sea ice melts due to climate change, there are concerns about remobilization of pollutants accumulated in multiyear sea ice as well as increased maritime activities contributing additional contaminants.

The world economy depends on oil and gas for the generation of electricity, transportation, polymers and chemicals, and heating. However, there is a significant environmental impact associated with the extraction and processing of gas and oil, which contaminates the air, water, soil, and human health. This chapter comprehensively examines the impacts of oil exploration and gas flaring on the Arctic environment and its diverse life forms. Oil exploration activities, including seismic surveys, drilling operations, and the construction of infrastructure such as platforms and pipelines, pose significant risks to Arctic ecosystems. This chapter analyzes the potential environmental consequences of oil exploration, including habitat destruction, oil spills, and pollution of air, water, and soil. Seismic surveys, which use high-intensity sound waves to map subsurface geology, can disturb marine mammals, fish, and other marine life, leading to changes in behavior, communication, and feeding patterns. Drilling operations, particularly offshore drilling in the Arctic Ocean, carry the risk of oil spills, which can have devastating impacts on marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Oil spills can contaminate water bodies, coat shoreline habitats, and harm wildlife through direct contact, ingestion, and inhalation of toxic substances. This chapter assesses the ecological and socioeconomic impacts of oil spills on Arctic communities, including disruptions to traditional subsistence activities such as fishing and hunting, loss of biodiversity, and long-term environmental damage. Gas flaring, the controlled burning of natural gas released during oil production, is another concern for the Arctic environment. Gas flaring releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and global warming. Additionally, gas flaring can emit air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can have adverse effects on human health and ecosystems. This chapter evaluates the environmental impacts of gas flaring on air quality, climate, and biodiversity in the Arctic region and discusses potential mitigation measures to reduce flaring emissions. This chapter thus underscores the importance of addressing the environmental risks associated with oil exploration and gas flaring in the Arctic region. It emphasizes the need for stringent regulations, effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, and sustainable energy policies to minimize the ecological footprint of oil and gas activities and protect the fragile Arctic environment and its unique biodiversity for future generations.

A major uncertainty exists as regards reservoir continuity across Otam EF8 and Nuke JF7 reservoirs and whether pressure depletion in one reservoir would result in reserve loss in the other if these reservoirs were exploited independently. Reservoir characterization was used to resolve this challenge utilizing a dataset of 3D seismic data, well-log data, biostratigraphic data, fluid composition data, pressure data, and production data via an integrated study. Seismic interpretation was used to characterize the structural and stratigraphic framework of the Niger Delta reservoirs of interest. Fault seal analysis, grain size analysis, fluid composition, and dynamic data analysis were supportive in making inferences on reservoir continuity and pressure communication. Otam EF8 reservoir was identified as a thick, clean sand zone as opposed to the Nuke JF7 reservoir with shaly sand intercalations, which revealed that the EF8 reservoir does not extend to the JF7 reservoir. The permeability and pressure analysis highly suggest communication with its juxtaposing reservoir. The thickness–throw ratio and manual computation of the shale gouge ratio also indicate the potential for fluid communication across the fault. It was established from coupled material balance analysis that these two reservoirs may be in pressure communication, as a relatively good history match was obtained. The study has shown that reservoir continuity and pressure communication across two proximal reservoirs may be mutually exclusive. A view-only full-text version of the paper is available via the SharedIt link below: https://rdcu.be/d2A3g You will also be able to use Enhanced PDF features such as annotation tools, one-click supplements, citation file exports and article metrics.

Background In Nigeria, violence against healthcare has adversely affected the access to and delivery of healthcare services with serious consequences for healthcare workers (HCWs). This study assessed the prevalence and patterns of violence against HCWs in areas of armed conflict, areas of other situation of violence and areas not affected by conflict in Nigeria. Methodology A cross-sectional study utilising a mixed method approach comprising both quantitative survey and qualitative data collection methods. All the categories of HCWs in public healthcare facilities participated in the study. Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the respective Health and Research Ethics Committees of the respective study sites. Results A total of 1,218 HCWs comprising Borno State, 407 (33.4%), Plateau State, 401 (32.9%) and the Federal Capital Territory 410 (43.7%) were interviewed. The overall prevalence of physical and psychological violence was 16.7% and 62.4%, respectively. Pushing and slapping were the predominant forms of physical violence. Weaponized violence with weapon was the highest in conflict areas. Verbal abuse, threats, bullying and harassment were the predominant forms of psychological violence. The major consequences of violent attacks on the HCWs were lack of job satisfaction, loss of confidence, low self-esteem, decreased productivity and post-traumatic stress disorder. Conclusions The overall prevalence of violent attacks on HCWs was high. The perpetrators of violent attacks were mainly patient relatives and patients/clients. The factors predisposing to violent attacks were patients-related issues, service delivery, working conditions of the hospitals, expectations of patient relatives and impatience of hospital staff.

Mercury is a highly toxic metal that causes a variety of neurological disorders through oxidative stress. Allium sativum, a cooking spice in diverse cultures around the world, has a long history of medicinal use due to its rich antioxidant constituents. This study was designed to evaluate the protective activity of aqueous Allium sativum bulb extract (ASBE) on mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced neurotoxicity. Forty Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups namely I (control), II (HgCl2; 4 mg/kg), III (250 mg/kg of ASBE and 4 mg/kg of HgCl2), IV (500 mg/kg of ASBE and 4 mg/kg of HgCl2) and V (500 mg/kg of Vitamin E and 4 mg/kg of HgCl2). At the end of the administration, neurobehavioural, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation and apoptotic activities as well as the histology of the cerebrum, cerebellum and hippocampus were assessed. Body and brain weights, locomotion, exploration, cognition, memory and antioxidant enzymes were significantly impaired (p < 0.05) in HgCl2-exposed rats following comparison to control. Lipid peroxidation, mercury concentration and caspase-3 activity were significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) in HgCl2-exposed rats following comparison to control. In addition, significant alterations to the histology of the cerebrum, cerebellum and hippocampus were observed in the HgCl2-exposed rats. Conversely, the adverse effects induced by HgCl2 were significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) following ASBE and Vitamin E pretreatment. Taken together, these results suggest that ABSE exerts its neuroprotective activity through its potent antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.

Lead is a heavy metal linked to neurodegeneration and other neurological disorders, via oxidative stress (OS). Antioxidants, such as vitamin E, are reported to hold promise in the mitigation of OS-linked disorders; however, there is a dearth of information on the role of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This study, for the first time, investigated the activity of BDNF in lead-exposed rats following pretreatment with vitamin E. Twenty-four Wistar rats were assigned into four groups (n = 6), namely I (control), II (lead acetate [Pb]; 100 mg/kg b.w.), III (200 mg/kg of vitamin E and 100 mg/kg of Pb), and IV (200 mg/kg of vitamin E). After 28 days of administration, neuro-behavioral, oxidative stress, caspase-3, TNF-α, and BDNF expression levels were evaluated. Body weight, neurobehavioral deficits, antioxidant enzymes, and BDNF were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in rats treated with Pb. Lipid peroxidation, inflammation, and apoptosis were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in rats treated with Pb. However, these adverse effects were significantly (p < 0.05) mitigated, via the significant upregulation of BDNF (p < 0.05), in the vitamin E–pretreated rats. Altogether, the findings from this study showed that the antioxidant effects of vitamin E are mediated via the upregulation of BDNF; thus, highlighting a potentially novel neurotrophic role of vitamin E against lead toxicity.

The traditional medicinal value of Curcuma longa (turmeric) and its potential relevance in modern healthcare suggests that traditional remedies and natural products can provide valuable solutions to contemporary challenges, such as combating biofilms and antibiotic-resistant pathogens, potentially offering new strategies for addressing health and safety issues in the fields of food and medicine. This study assessed the antibiofilm and antibacterial characterization of Curcuma longa rhizome extract against antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis were determined to check for the compounds, functional groups, and constituents of the plant extract. In-vitro antibiofilm and antibacterial bioassay of the extract were determined using standard bacteriological procedures. Potential mechanisms of the plant extract were also studied using standard biological methods. The important chemical constituents from the GC-MS extract of C. longa are arturmerone, cinnamyl angelate, tumerone, c-atlantone, atlantone, a-atlantone, c-atlantone and curlone. The FTIR analysis of the extract comprises alkyl halides, bromoalkanes, alkanes, ethylene molecules, arenes, amines, alcohols, sulfones, carboxylic acids and their derivatives , aromatic compounds, and phenols. The MIC of C. longa crude extract ranges from ethanol extract (0.03125 − 0.5 mg/mL) and acetone extract (0.0625 − 0.5 mg/mL). The MBC range is as follows: ethanol extract (0.125 − 1 mg/mL), acetone extract (0.125 − 1 mg/mL). The time-kill kinetics showed significant cell reduction with time. The bacterial isolates' nucleic acids and protein leakage were consistent with increased extract concentration and time. There was a reduction in the biofilm cell on the shrimp surface and EPS with increased concentration and time. C. longa exerted significant anti-biofilm activity by removing existing biofilms, disrupting cell connections, and decreasing cells in biofilms. These findings can aid food protection from microbial contamination and prevent biofilms-related infections.

Background With Nigeria accounting for 31% of the estimated 608,000 deaths due to malaria globally, good knowledge of malaria prevention is essential for effective malaria control. The objective of this study was to examine the knowledge of malaria prevention and its associated factors among Nigerian women. Methods This study analysed secondary data from the 2021 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey. The sample included 14,476 women of reproductive age (15–49 years). A multilevel multivariable logistic regression was used to examine individual, household, and community-level factors associated with having good knowledge of malaria prevention. Results The weighted prevalence of having good knowledge of malaria prevention was 43.5% (95%CI: 41.7–45.2%). Women with secondary/higher education had 2.35 higher odds of good knowledge of malaria prevention, when compared with those with no formal/primary education (aOR = 2.35; 95% CI: 2.00–2.75). Those exposed to malaria messages had 2.62 higher odds of good knowledge of malaria prevention, when compared with no exposure to malaria messages (aOR = 2.62; 95% CI: 2.31–2.97). Women from non-poor households had 1.42 higher odds of good knowledge of malaria prevention, when compared with those from poor households (aOR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.17–1.71). Rural dwellers had 39.0% reduction in the odds of good knowledge of malaria prevention, when compared with their urban counterparts (aOR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.46–0.80). In addition, women from communities with high level of education (aOR = 2.24; 95%CI: 1.38–3.64), moderately exposed to malaria messages (aOR = 1.43; 95%CI: 1.08–1.88) and highly exposed to malaria messages (aOR = 1.71; 95%CI: 1.27–2.30), had higher odds of good knowledge of malaria prevention, when compared with women from communities with low education and low exposure to malaria messages, respectively. Conclusion The knowledge of malaria prevention was found to be low. The study identified education, religion, exposure to malaria messages, wealth, region, place of residence, community-level poverty, education and exposure to malaria messages as factors associated with the knowledge of malaria prevention. Addressing these factors through targeted interventions, such as improving educational opportunities for women and enhancing media-driven public health campaigns are essential to enhancing malaria knowledge among this critical demographic group.

Termite restore plant diversity and soil on altered lands in West Africa with particular abundance of small mound made by Trinervitermes trinervitus, Trinervitermes geminatus, Cubitermes spp. or Microcerotermes spp. The particular abundance of small mounds on altered lands suggests the existence of underlying abiotic and biotic factors. This study investigated the spatial patterns of termite mounds on the altered lands and its relationship with tree distribution in order to sustain the ecological restoration of the altered lands. Thus, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was used to collect images on three different altered land sites of 18 ha characterised with termite mounds. The images were ortho-mosaicked with Pix4D Mapper software. Termite mounds and trees were digitalised on these images in ArcGIS software. The Ripley's pair correlation function using spatstat package was applied to assess the spatial pattern and association of mounds and trees. An aggregative pattern (g(r) > 1) was revealed in the spatial distribution of both termite mounds and trees across all sites. Furthermore, a positive clustered association between termitemounds and trees was noted at two study sites, likely due to the absence of human disturbance. Therefore, this interaction should be vital for assisted ecological restoration and can be factored into efforts to accelerate the restoration of soils and plants on degraded lands. The authors then recommend future research to explore the specific role this attractive relationship plays in ecosystem restoration.

Background Access to eye care in rural Nigeria remains limited, as most optometrists work in urban areas. This study explores the factors influencing Nigerian optometry students’ decision to work in rural settings after graduation. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 400 optometry students from ten accredited Nigerian universities. The students were surveyed on their preferences regarding rural practice and the factors affecting their decisions. Results The majority of respondents (81.3%) were not inclined to establish their first optometric practice in rural areas, with poor living conditions (26.34%) being the most common deterrent. However, a significant proportion (52.8%) expressed willingness to consider establishing subsequent practices in rural areas. Motivation to help the community (56.6%) and the potential to enhance their optometric practice (74.6%) were key drivers for rural practice. Chi-square test revealed that participants’ year of study had a significant influence on their preference to practice in rural areas (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant connection between participants’ gender and place of origin, and their preference for rural practice (p > 0.05). Conclusion While many students, particularly from urban backgrounds, are reluctant to initiate practice in rural areas after graduation, primarily due to concerns over living conditions. In contrast, students from rural backgrounds show a higher likelihood of considering rural practice, especially within NGOs or the public sector. Hence, such factors should be considered by academic institutions and government bodies when designing policies to address workforce imbalances.

Agriculture's important role in human survival and its significant impact on the Earth's ecosystem imply the need for sustainable practices. This study focuses on the critical components of irrigation management and soil remediation, essential for maintaining soil health and productivity. By integrating these components , the study assessed feasible soil remediation practices and explored various irrigation strategies in different contexts. It was observed that integrating soil remediation practices with suitable irrigation techniques and scheduling can improve crop yield, conserve water, and enhance the long-term health of marginal soils, addressing the challenges of climate change, hunger, and environmental sustainability. The study also advocates for incorporating indigenous knowledge with physical, chemical, and biological soil remediation techniques, integrated with irrigation practices. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, offering insights and paving the way for future research and development in sustainable agriculture. By making the link between irrigation management and soil remediation explicit, this study illustrates practical cases that address the complex challenges faced by marginal lands, global food security, and environmental sustainability.

Medicinal plants are common in our environment and have been useful in traditional medicine. The present study was conducted to evaluate the mineral content, the phytochemical, and antimicrobial properties of Carica papaya seed extracts on clinical isolates. The C. papaya seeds were sourced from fruits sellers from the Ekosodin community in Ovia North East Local Government, Benin City, Edo State. The seeds were air-dried for 14 days. The extract was obtained by maceration using distilled water and ethanol as solvents. The results of the mineral composition for both aqueous and ethanolic extracts indicated that sodium, potassium, calcium, zinc, copper, phosphorus, nitrogen, chromium, and iron were present. The phytochemical screening for both aqueous and ethanolic extracts indicated the presence of compounds such as saponins, phenolics, alkaloids, and flavonoids. The antimicrobial assay revealed that C. papaya seed extracts had good antimicrobial properties with a minimum inhibition of 100 mg/mL observed in Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis for the aqueous extract, 1.04 mg/ml S. epidermidis and B. subtilis , and 2.08 mg/ml Candida spp. for the ethanol extract. The minimum bactericidal concentration of the ethanol extract in this study was 4.16 mg/ml for S. epidermidis and 8.33 mg/ml for B. subtilis , and the minimum fungicidal concentration was 8.33 mg/ml for Candida spp. The results from this study indicated that C. papaya seeds possess sufficient mineral components and phytochemical components, indicating their potential use as supplementary antimicrobial agents and essential nutrients for both humans and animals.

Blended fuel performance and emissions have been suggested as a surrogate for pure conventional diesel. Few countries have adopted 15% and lower biodiesel blending. Yet, lower emission levels than at present remains elusive. This study investigated the tertiary blends of Khaya senegalensis (African Mahogany) biodiesel and conventional diesel with varied kerosene proportion in a direct injection compression ignition engine to improve engine performance and reduce emissions. It is an experimental-based methodology process involving ASTM standard characterizations for 5% kerosene to biodiesel-diesel (BDK 5 ), 15% kerosene to biodiesel-diesel (BDK 15 ), 25% kerosene to biodiesel-diesel (BDK 25 ), pure diesel (D 100 ), pure biodiesel (B 100 ) blends at constant 10% biodiesel proportion in each tertiary blend. Results showed significant decrease in viscosity and density leading to good atomization of the tertiary blends. Furthermore, the rich mixture combustion of blends indicated BDK 15 and BDK 5 to be comparatively better than D 100 in air-fuel ratio with 12.28, 10.3 and 8.99 (BDK 15 ); 11.32, 11.49 and 10.6 (BDK 5 ) as against 14.35, 9.81 and 8.39 (D 100 ). The brake mean effective pressure effects were 2.117 bar, 2.752 bar and 3.37 bar (BDK 15 ); 2.122 bar, 2.527 bar, and 3.255 bar (BDK 5 ); 2.058 bar, 2.377 bar and 3.355 bar (D 100 ) at 3.4 N m, 4.35 N m and 5.3 N m, respectively. Similarly, brake thermal efficiency significantly improved with BDK 15 and BDK 5 over D 100 on progressive torque increments whereas the energy liberated performance of BDK 15 was comparatively better. All tertiary blends emitted lower CO 2 than D 100 . However, D 100 had the lowest exhaust gas temperature. There is a significant kerosene blended fuel effect on compression ignition engine performance and emissions.

Optimization of petroleum hydrocarbons degradation process in contaminated environments process could be feasible through the use of biosurfactant-producing bacteria. The aim of this study was to investigate crude oil degradation potential of biosurfactant-producing bacteria isolated from marine ecosystem in Nigeria. Sediment and water samples were collected from ten marine ecosystem locations within Nigeria and physicochemical analyses were carried out on them. Isolates were identified and screened for biosurfactant production and crude oil degradation for 7 days. The screened isolates were assayed for biosurfactant production and crude oil degradation for 35 days and analysed every 7 days interval for changes in pH, OD and TPH content. The strains with the highest yield were identified using molecular method. The results showed that twenty bacterial isolates were isolated from the ecosystem. The identified screened isolates revealed Pseudomonas sp.-ILAw, Pseudomonas sp.-OGUw, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-IDDOs, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-IDDOw, Escherichia sp.-MAKs, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-MAKw, Pseudomonas sp.-OWOs, Micrococcus sp.-OWOw, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-UNIw, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-AGBw, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-DSBs, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-DSBw, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-OKOs, Pseudomonas aeruginosa-OKOw and Pseudomonas aeruginosa-MIDw to have potentials for biosurfactant production and crude oil degradation. From the assay, isolates with the highest biosurfactant production using Emulsification index were Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain sihong_820_11, Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain P73 and Escherichia hermannii strain K167 with values 68%, 56% and 56% respectively while the isolates with the lowest yield of crude oil degradation of 50% efficacy are Pseudomonas aeruginosa-IDDOw and Pseudomonas sp.-ILAw. From these results, it is inferred that biosurfactant-producing bacteria isolated from marine ecosystem within Nigeria can efficiently degrade crude oil in contaminated sites.

Objectives To assess diagnostic mycology capacity and available fungal diagnostic services of microbiology laboratories in eight tertiary hospitals in Nigeria and one in Ghana. Methods On-site audits were performed in the microbiology laboratories of nine tertiary hospitals using a structured observation checklist. Results A total of nine tertiary hospitals' laboratories in Nigeria and Ghana were assessed between June 2022 and December 2023. The majority of audited laboratories lacked basic infrastructure and materials needed for fungal diagnostic testing, with less than half of the labs having a dedicated mycology bench, space or room, 3/9 (33.3%), appropriate bench workflow 1/9 (11.1%), functional biosafety cabinet type two 2/9 (22.2%), dedicated incubators 3/9 (33.3%), standard operating procedures 1/9 (11.1%), mycology atlases 2/9 (22.2%). Trained laboratory personnel for mycology were also lacking with only one of the laboratories 1/9 (11.1%) observed to have a designated trained personnel for the mycology bench. Conclusion The audit revealed deficits in basic infrastructure, material resources, dedicated human resources, and laboratory capacity to detect serious fungal infections.