Scientific African最新文献

{"title":"Mathematical modeling of HIV/AIDS dynamics with optimal control analysis","authors":"Abdulsamad Engida Sado ,&nbsp;Gemechis File Duressa ,&nbsp;Chernet Tuge Deressa","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02972","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02972","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>HIV/AIDS continues to pose a serious global health threat, with working-class populations in low-resource settings particularly vulnerable due to unequal access to healthcare and greater exposure to risk factors. This vulnerability, intensified by socio-economic inequalities and recent disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, threatens both public health and economic productivity. To address this challenge, we developed a novel nonlinear integral-order differential equation model that explicitly incorporates working-class productivity dynamics alongside HIV/AIDS transmission, an approach not commonly addressed in earlier studies. Model parameters were estimated using twenty-three years of epidemiological data from Ethiopia through least-squares fitting, ensuring strong policy relevance. The disease-free equilibrium was analyzed for local stability via the basic reproduction number (<span><math><msub><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>0</mn></mrow></msub></math></span>), while forward and backward bifurcation analyses were conducted to reveal the possibility of multiple endemic equilibria. Numerical solutions were obtained using MATLAB, and the optimal control problem was solved using the forward–backward sweep method with a fourth-order Runge–Kutta algorithm. Unlike many previous models focusing on single interventions, our study evaluated simultaneous optimal control strategies, including education, testing, treatment, and behavioral interventions. Results showed that combined interventions substantially reduced infection levels and enhanced productivity, while cost-effectiveness analysis demonstrated that the integrated approach yielded the highest benefit to cost ratio. These findings emphasize the novelty and importance of linking socio-economic productivity with epidemiological modeling, providing new insights for policymakers seeking efficient and targeted HIV/AIDS intervention programs. By bridging health dynamics and workforce outcomes, this study advances current modeling approaches and highlights integrated strategies as the most effective means of reducing HIV/AIDS burden in vulnerable populations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02972"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221548","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Thermodynamic properties of multilayered spherical quantum dots: Confinement, temperature and magnetic field dependence","authors":"S. Chouef ,&nbsp;M. Hbibi ,&nbsp;R. Boussetta ,&nbsp;A. El Moussaouy ,&nbsp;F. Falyouni ,&nbsp;O. Mommadi ,&nbsp;C.A. Duque","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02995","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02995","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>We investigate how temperature variation, confinement conditions, and magnetic field strength influence the thermodynamic behavior of GaAs/Al<span><math><msub><mrow></mrow><mrow><msub><mrow><mi>x</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>1</mn></mrow></msub></mrow></msub></math></span>Ga<span><math><msub><mrow></mrow><mrow><mn>1</mn><mo>−</mo><msub><mrow><mi>x</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>1</mn></mrow></msub></mrow></msub></math></span>As multilayer spherical quantum dots. Within the effective mass approximation, the Schrödinger equation is numerically solved using the finite element method. Thermodynamic quantities such as internal energy, heat capacity, and entropy are computed from the energy spectrum via the canonical ensemble formalism. The results reveal that these quantities vary significantly with structural parameters and external perturbations. This study provides insights into the interplay between geometry, magnetic field, and thermal activation in determining the thermodynamic response of quantum-confined systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02995"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145220934","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Synthesis of Chitosan-Natrolite modified magnetite nanocomposite (Chio/Fe3O4@NAT) for photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange using response surface model (RSM)","authors":"Abenezer Zenebe,&nbsp;Mamo Dikamu,&nbsp;Dessie Ezez","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e03004","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e03004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The present study focuses on the synthesis of Chito/Fe₃O₄@NAT nanocomposite for the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) from aqueous solutions. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized using Ultraviolet-Visible spectrophotometer(UV-Vis), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-Ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) for the optical, morphological, particle size, and surface functional group study. The UV-Vis spectra revealed a peak at 285 nm for (1:1:1) Chito/Fe₃O₄@NAT. The XRD pattern confirmed the crystalline size of 19.59 nm, further confirmed by SEM, having a heterogeneous and porous surface morphology. FT-IR spectra showed the presence of bioactive molecules and a peak at 557 cm^−1, confirming the presence of Fe-O stretching vibration. Furthermore, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of Chito/Fe₃O₄@NAT of the nanocomposite on MO dye was investigated under dark, ultraviolet lamp (254 nm), and sunlight conditions. The effects of three independent parameters such as irradiation time (30-90) min, catalyst dose (0.01- 0.05) g, and initial dye concentration (10-30) mg/L were examined and optimized by Box-Behnken design (BBD). The optimal conditions of a catalyst dose of 0.0596 g, an initial concentration of dyes of 30 mg/L, and an irradiation time of 90 min. The experimental data of degradation followed a Hinshelwood-pseudo-first-order kinetic model (R² = 0.997) while the equilibrium degradation data showed that the Langmuir isotherm (R² = 0.9962). The synthesized nanocomposite exhibited excellent stability and recyclability, maintaining 60 % dye degradation capacity even after 6 cycles.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e03004"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221551","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A systematic review of enteric pathogens in solid waste disposal sites and surrounding environments","authors":"Richard Lizwe Steven Mvula ,&nbsp;Amber N. Barnes ,&nbsp;John Njalam’mano ,&nbsp;Fasil Ejigu Eregno ,&nbsp;Wilfred Kadewa","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02994","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02994","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Solid waste disposal sites and indiscriminate dumping are favorable breeding grounds for various pathogens, including enteric pathogens. The pathogens include protozoan parasites, bacteria, and viruses. This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of various enteric pathogens at solid waste disposal sites and surrounding environments. Additionally, it analyzed detection methods, assessed reported antimicrobial resistance, and identified the research gaps in the literature. We searched five databases, targeting peer-reviewed articles from January 2003 to June 2024. Thirty-eight articles were retained for final analysis. The results indicate that at least one enteric pathogen was detected in every study. 71 % of the studies reported on bacteria, 13 % on parasites, 5.3 % on viruses, and the remaining percentage was on multiple pathogens. Evidence indicates the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in solid waste disposal sites. Culture-based enteric pathogen detection methods dominated compared to molecular and microscopic techniques. Our work identified research gaps such as a lack of completeness and underrepresentation of data in all geographic regions, such as low- and middle-income countries. Further, not all enteric pathogens have been extensively studied, leaving a gap in understanding their impacts. Additionally, the studies are missing the pathways for transmitting enteric pathogens and the employment of quantitative microbial risk assessments (QMRA). We recommend more thorough studies for all pathogens, including fungi, and prioritizing research in low and middle-income countries. Additionally, implementing quantitative microbial risk assessments (QMRA) and integrating a holistic One Health approach in studies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02994"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221553","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Optimization of fermentation conditions for lactic acid production by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum OM510300 using plantain peduncles as substrate","authors":"Oluwafemi Adebayo Oyewole ,&nbsp;Japhet Gaius Yakubu ,&nbsp;Nofisat Olaide Oyedokun ,&nbsp;Konjerimam Ishaku Chimbekujwo ,&nbsp;Priscila Yetu Tsado ,&nbsp;Abdullah Albaqami","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02998","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02998","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lactic acid (LA) is the most common hydroxycarboxylic acid with optically active chiral carbon atoms, with numerous applications across pharmaceutical, food, textile, chemical, and medical sectors. LA has been used as an antioxidant, decontaminant, acidulant, and cryoprotectant among other functions. This study was aimed at optimizing fermentation conditions for LA production by <em>Lactiplantibacillus plantarum</em> (accession number OM510300) using plantain peduncles. The plantain peduncles were subjected to pre-treatment using alkaline and enzymatic hydrolysis. The physical and chemical properties of the pre-treated plantain peduncles were observed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Through the design expert, a central composite design was set up and used in designing the experimental runs for fermentation conditions. The results from the runs were analyzed using ANOVA. SEM, XRD, and FTIR analysis revealed changes in the structural arrangement of the untreated and pre-treated plantain peduncles. Results from the ANOVA revealed different levels of interaction by each fermentation condition independently and collaboratively. The reliability of the reduced quadratic model used in the central composite design was observed to be significant with an F-value of 13.25 and a <em>p-value of &lt; 0.0001. This implies that the model can accurately predict the concentration of LA under the investigated experimental settings. Upon conducting a submerged LA production, 483 ml of LA was obtained at the end of the extraction using the phase partitioning technique. Fermentation conditions such as pH and temperature have a significant effect on LA production with optimal conditions observed for the pH to be 9.8 to 10 and for incubation periods of 6 to 7 h</em> with a temperature range of 40 °C to 42 °C.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02998"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145220935","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Advanced techniques for maximizing photovoltaic power: A systematic literature review","authors":"Amal Satif ,&nbsp;Mohcin Mekhfioui ,&nbsp;Rachid Elgouri","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02989","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02989","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Maximizing energy yield in photovoltaic (PV) systems remains a critical engineering challenge due to environmental variability, thermal losses, and suboptimal energy extraction strategies. This paper presents a comprehensive systematic literature review (SLR) that uniquely integrates three major PV power enhancement domains: MPPT, solar tracking, and thermal management. In contrast to prior reviews that assess these areas in isolation, this work offers a unified and comparative perspective, emphasizing the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and metaheuristic optimization algorithms across all three domains. Peer-reviewed studies from the last decade were selected using strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Techniques are classified into conventional, AI-based, and hybrid categories. MPPT methods are evaluated through both implementation-specific metrics (e.g., complexity, robustness, convergence time) and simulation-based performance indicators (e.g., tracking efficiency, energy gain). Similarly, solar tracking systems are analyzed with respect to tracking accuracy and energy improvements, while cooling strategies, spanning passive, active, and hybrid solutions, are reviewed for their impact on thermal regulation and electrical efficiency. Real-world deployment examples are also incorporated to assess practical applicability. The review highlights persistent challenges such as high computational and hardware requirements for intelligent and hybrid methods, sensitivity to parameter tuning, oscillations or slow convergence in certain algorithms, and increased cost and mechanical complexity in advanced tracking and cooling solutions, moreover, intelligent optimization remains underexplored in PV cooling applications. The study concludes with key research gaps and outlines future directions for developing integrated, intelligent, and climate-resilient PV systems. This work serves as a valuable reference for researchers and practitioners aiming to design high-performance solar energy solutions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02989"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221550","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Near infrared spectroscopy for hemoglobin quantification in a single drop of blood with improved pretreatment and wavelength selection","authors":"Fatima Ezzahra El Kamouny ,&nbsp;Hassan Oukhouya ,&nbsp;Younes Wadiai ,&nbsp;Abdellah Madani ,&nbsp;Khadija El Kamouny ,&nbsp;Aziz Lmakri","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02990","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02990","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Clinical diagnostics and patient monitoring depend heavily on hemoglobin (HGB) quantification; however, traditional techniques are frequently intrusive, time-consuming, and require comparatively large blood volumes. By investigating the possibility of using Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to predict hemoglobin concentration from a single drop of blood, this study addresses the demand for a quick and minimally invasive alternative. The primary goal is to increase prediction accuracy by using optimized wavelength selection and spectral preprocessing. A total of 400 blood samples, including those from healthy individuals and patients receiving medical treatment with hemoglobin values ranging from 2.5 to 20 g/dL, were collected from AL QODS Medical Analysis Laboratory. To improve spectral clarity, spectral preprocessing methods such as the Savitzky–Golay Method (SGM), Standard Normal Variate (SNV), and Multiplicative Scatter Correction (MSC) were applied. An optimal subset of wavelengths was then selected using the Interval Partial Least Squares (IPLS) regression technique. Compared to conventional Partial Least Squares (PLS) using the entire spectrum, the results demonstrate that IPLS significantly improves model performance. A strong correlation between laboratory data and a selection of 39 spectral bands (2238.758–2307.405 nm) was also observed. This study demonstrates how advanced preprocessing and wavelength selection can be combined to quantify hemoglobin from a single blood drop accurately. The results highlight the potential of NIR spectroscopy as a fast, reliable, and easily accessible clinical monitoring tool, particularly for the diagnosis and monitoring of anemia and other blood disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02990"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145158910","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Phytochemical content, in vitro antioxidants and antimicrobial activities of Daphne gnidium L. leaves","authors":"Issam El Mouzazi ,&nbsp;Mustapha Laghmari ,&nbsp;Oumayma Iraqi ,&nbsp;Issam Ghabbour ,&nbsp;Taoufiq Benali ,&nbsp;Khalil Hammani ,&nbsp;Abdellatif Bour ,&nbsp;Soad Khal-Layoun","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e03000","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e03000","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Daphne gnidium</em> is an endemic plant of Mediterranean basin, widely used for hair care and dermatological diseases in this area. This investigation aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition of <em>D. gnidum</em> leaves extracted by ultrasounds assisted extraction using aqueous and organic solvents (methanol, ethanol, chloroform and ethyl acetate) and to determine their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The ethanolic extract showed a higher concentration of total phenolic content (93.24 ± 0.07 mg GAE/g of dry extract), while the chloroform extract had a higher flavonoid content (60.94 ± 0.18 mg QE/g of dry extract) and condensed tannins (91.52 ± 2.23 mg CE/g of dry extract). Antioxidant potential was assessed by three methods (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP). Aqueous extract showed stronger antioxidant potential in DPPH test (IC₅₀ = 37.99 ± 1.51 µg/mL). Methanolic extract was the most potent in ABTS assay (IC₅₀ = 190 ± 4.86 µg/mL), while aqueous extract performed best in FRAP method (9.1 ± 0.08 mg AAE/g). The Pearson correlation test revealed a strong positive correlation between total flavonoid content, condensed tannins and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assay), while a negative correlation was demonstrated between the DPPH, ABTS methods and total phenolic content. The antimicrobial activity was examined against four strains (<em>Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus mirabilis</em> and <em>Candida albicans</em>). At a concentration of 50 mg/mL, all tested extracts (aqueous, methanolic, ethanolic, chloroform and ethyl acetate) exhibited inhibitory effect against the four strains with inhibition diameters ranging from 8.67 ± 0.47 to 19.33 ± 0.94 mm, the latter achieved by the ethanolic extract against <em>Proteus mirabilis</em>. In conclusion, <em>D. gnidium</em> contains compounds with potential antioxidants and antimicrobial activities against certain harmful bacteria.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e03000"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221549","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Modeling foot-and-mouth disease dynamics with immigrants and control in Tanzania","authors":"Issa Shabani Mfinanga ,&nbsp;Theresia Marijani ,&nbsp;Nyimvua Shaban Mbare","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02974","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02974","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) remains a significant threat to livestock health and food security in Tanzania, driven by uncontrolled animal movement and limited control measures. This study develops a data-driven mathematical model to assess FMD transmission dynamics, explicitly incorporating infective immigrants and key epidemiological factors. The model employs a compartmental SEVIATR (Susceptible–Exposed–Vaccinated–Infective–Asymptomatic–Treated–Recovered) framework and computes the effective reproduction number (<span><math><msub><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mi>e</mi></mrow></msub></math></span>) using the next-generation matrix method. Local and global stability of the disease-free equilibrium are established via the Routh–Hurwitz criterion and a Lyapunov function, respectively. Sensitivity analysis identifies the transmission rate and biosecurity effectiveness as the primary drivers of <span><math><msub><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mi>e</mi></mrow></msub></math></span>. Numerical simulations reveal that infective immigrants significantly increase <span><math><msub><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mi>e</mi></mrow></msub></math></span>, highlighting the importance of border control. Integrated interventions, including vaccination, movement restrictions, and enhanced biosecurity, are shown to reduce <span><math><msub><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mi>e</mi></mrow></msub></math></span> below the epidemic threshold. The model is validated with national surveillance data and achieves improved predictive performance by incorporating seasonal variation and time-series forecasting. This study provides novel, region-specific insights into FMD dynamics and informs policymakers on effective, integrated control strategies for endemic settings.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02974"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145158912","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Effects of cannabis dependence on sleep quality and cognitive function: A comparative study in moroccan adolescent addicts and non-addicts","authors":"Abdelilah Elhachimi ,&nbsp;Abdelhafid Benksim ,&nbsp;Hamid Ibanni ,&nbsp;Mohamed Eddabbah ,&nbsp;Mohamed Cherkaoui","doi":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02996","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02996","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Cannabis use during adolescence is a growing public health concern, particularly due to its potential effects on brain development, cognitive function, and sleep quality. While the prevalence of cannabis use among Moroccan youth is high, scientific studies exploring its neuropsychological consequences in this population remain limited.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aimed to examine and compare cognitive performance and sleep quality between cannabis-addicted and non-addicted Moroccan adolescents, using validated assessment tools.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among 200 adolescents aged 14 to 24, recruited from the Guéliz Addiction Center in Marrakech. Participants were classified into addicted and non-addicted groups based on The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U tests, Spearman correlations, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Addicted adolescents showed significantly lower MoCA scores across several domains, including memory, attention, and language (<em>p</em> &lt; 0.01). They also reported significantly poorer sleep quality, with higher scores in PSQI components such as sleep latency, nighttime disturbances, and use of sleep medications (<em>p</em> &lt; 0.01). PCA revealed distinct latent dimensions associated with both cognitive and sleep impairments, with memory and daytime dysfunction emerging as major contributors. A moderate to strong correlation was found between addiction diagnosis, cognitive decline, and sleep disruption.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Cannabis addiction in Moroccan adolescents is associated with significant impairments in cognition and sleep. These findings highlight the need for integrated assessment tools and culturally tailored interventions to address cannabis use and its consequences in this vulnerable population.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":21690,"journal":{"name":"Scientific African","volume":"30 ","pages":"Article e02996"},"PeriodicalIF":3.3,"publicationDate":"2025-09-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145220927","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}