| 1 |
Author(s):
Amaechi A. A., Iwunze J. I, Ebeh-Njoku A., Nwokeji C. M., Nwachukwu M.O, Iheanacho J. N., Aderibigbe A., Orimogunje I., Aremo O..
Page No : 1-10
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The Epidemiological, Entomological and Socio-Economic Evaluation of Ivermectin Treatment in Imo River Basin, Nigeria.
Abstract
To assess the effectiveness of annual mass ivermectin treatment over 20 years in achieving elimination of onchocerciasis, we conducted cross-sectional study between May 2021 and March 2022. A total of 540 individuals aged 5 years and above from rural farming communities selected were skin snipped for dermal microfilariae (mf) by standard technique. Prospection of Simulium black flies was done at Lolo and Ibii Rivers. Structured questionnaires were used for the level of awareness, attitude and perceptions (KAP): onchocerciasis, vectors, treatment, drug compliance, benefits and socio-economy. Results revealed an overall mf prevalence of 12.8% and black fly infection rate (0.7%), infectivity and transmission potentials of (0.0%) indicative of non transmission. These values contrasted with earlier reports in the range of 22%-68% for mf and 20.2%-48.2% infective rates suggesting efficacy of mass ivermectin treatment in halting onchocerciasis. Participants had a high level of awareness about drug distribution. Benefits, dislikes and challenges of ivermectin were reported. We concluded that annual mass ivermectin treatment creditably reduced the microfilarial load and treatment in the study communities.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Shehu Sadiq Olayinka, Olorunmaiye Kehinde Stephen, Yahaya Gogata Mohammed, Alabi Fauziat.
Page No : 11-25
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Effects of Ultraviolet Radiation on the Growth and Germination of Sorghum (Sorghum Bicolor).
Abstract
The essential requirement for plant growth is the sun. UV radiation, the damaging component of solar radiation, can reduce plant growth by decreasing the metabolic rate of photosynthesis. Plant quality and growth are significantly influenced by the light's wavelength, intensity, and exposure. The study's goal was to examine “the Effects of UV Irradiation on the growth and yield of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)” growth, photomorphogenesis, and stress tolerance. The study used the CRD technique of analysis because of its useful findings from pre-planting UV-light exposure of the seeds and subsequent monitoring of their germination and growth. It is common knowledge that UV radiation alters plant architecture, having a considerable impact on attractive crops and increasing their market value. Abiotic stress caused by UV exposure has two effects: it boosts resistance to pests and pathogens and lessens postharvest quality degradation. This study will aid academics and businesses in their understanding of how UV radiation affects the biological output of grains.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Amaechi A. Amaechi, Iwunze J. Ikechukwu, Ogu M. Ebere, Awah P. Amarachi, Ogu O. Ginikanwa, Nwabueze J. Uchechi, Wofuru A. Chigonim.
Page No : 26-45
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A Cross-Sectional Survey on the Impact of Malaria Intervention Measures on Prevalence and Vectorial Infection Rates in Parts of Imo State, Nigeria.
Abstract
There is a dearth of information on the Impact of malarial intervention measures on vectorial infection rates in the study area. This study therefore investigated the Impact of malaria intervention measures on prevalence and vectorial infection rates in two Local Government Areas of Imo State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross sectional design involving 735 participants aged 5 years to >60 years, division of study subjects into four groups and was conducted between July 2023 and May 2024. Participants blood were collected and processed using Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs). Indoor resting malaria vectors collected by pyrethrum knock down (PKD) were assessed for parasitological/entomological indices with standard methods. Malarial intervention compliance was monitored and impact assessed by comparing results from different intervention measures/cohorts. Overall, pre-intervention malaria prevalence (26.12%) were five times significantly higher than intervention prevalence result 9.05% (P<0.05). All intervention measures Insecticide treated bednet (ITNs), Indoor residual spray (IRS) and Prophalytic drugs (Drugs) reduced malaria prevalence significantly (P0.05). Species from NICs; Anopheles gambiae (44.81%) and An. funestus (32.05%) were higher than those from ICs Anopheles gambiae (14.84%) and An. funestus (3.44%). NICs had more parous mosquitoes, ICs had comparable sporozoite rates (1.36% vs 2.06%), Entomological Inoculation Rate (0.099 vs 0.0331) and infectivity rates (1.05% vs 0.59%). In conclusion, this study suggests that malaria management efforts should involve integrated strategy that revolves on proper environmental sanitation and human behavioural patterns.
