This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Lassa fever in and around Lafia, Central Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were administered to 200 consenting respondents from urban and sub-urban areas in Lafia. Of the 200 respondents, 87% heard of Lassa fever with 89% and 80% from urban and sub-urban areas. There was no significant difference on the awareness of Lassa fever among respondents from urban and sub-urban areas (P>0.05). There was misperception about species affected and modes of transmission of the disease, nevertheless bleeding was mentioned by 39% of the respondents as the major clinical manifestation. Also, 83% of the respondents had rats/rodents in and around their residence, of which 28% come into contact with urine/feaces of the rodents and 24% consume foods contaminated by the rodents. However, 85% of the respondents do not believe in the existence of Lassa fever. Most respondents (41%) reported that they will show some discriminatory attitudes towards individuals suspected or having Lassa fever. Furthermore, 67% of the respondents were optimistic to accept possible vaccine candidate against the disease. Public health awareness especially among the sub-urban dwellers should be intensified so as to reduce the spread of both the vector and the virus.
Malaria is still considered globally as a leading cause of morbidity with Nigeria carrying the highest burden of 19%. Coinfection of malaria and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) accelerate disease progression of HIV/AIDS subjects. This study investigated the prevalence and predictors of malaria among HIV infected subjects attending the antiretroviral therapy Clinic at Federal the Medical Centre, Keffi, Nigeria. After ethical clearance, 200 whole blood specimens were collected from patients who gave informed consent and completed a self-structured questionnaire. The specimens were examined for malarial parasite using rapid kits and microscopy. The overall prevalence of the infection was 78/200 (39.0%). The prevalence was higher in male (44.7%) than female (34.0%) subjects. Those subjects aged < 20 years (54.5), male gender (44.7%), non-formal education holders (61.5%), farmers (62.5%), stream water users (48.1%), those that lives in rural setting (43.6%), those that do not use Insecticides Treated Nets (ITNs) (39.4%) and swampy environment dwellers (41.7%) were identified predictors for malaria infection in the area. All the predictors studied did not show any statistically significant difference with the infection but some arithmetic difference exists (P > 0.05). The 39.0% prevalence of malaria in HIV infected subjects is a public health concern. Therefore, Public health surveillance and health education among HIV population should be advocated to help eradicate malaria comes 2030. Further study that will characterize the genes of the parasite should be carried out.
Washington Global Health Alliance Discovery Series
Supamit Chinsuttiwat
May 22, 2008
'Response to Avian Influenza and Preparedness for Pandemic Influenza: Thailand's Experience'
Malaria is still considered globally as a leading cause of morbidity with Nigeria carrying the highest burden of 19%. Coinfection of malaria and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) accelerate disease progression of HIV/AIDS subjects. This study investigated the prevalence and predictors of malaria among HIV infected subjects attending the antiretroviral therapy Clinic at Federal the Medical Centre, Keffi, Nigeria. After ethical clearance, 200 whole blood specimens were collected from patients who gave informed consent and completed a self-structured questionnaire. The specimens were examined for malarial parasite using rapid kits and microscopy. The overall prevalence of the infection was 78/200 (39.0%). The prevalence was higher in male (44.7%) than female (34.0%) subjects. Those subjects aged < 20 years (54.5), male gender (44.7%), non-formal education holders (61.5%), farmers (62.5%), stream water users (48.1%), those that lives in rural setting (43.6%), those that do not use Insecticides Treated Nets (ITNs) (39.4%) and swampy environment dwellers (41.7%) were identified predictors for malaria infection in the area. All the predictors studied did not show any statistically significant difference with the infection but some arithmetic difference exists (P > 0.05). The 39.0% prevalence of malaria in HIV infected subjects is a public health concern. Therefore, Public health surveillance and health education among HIV population should be advocated to help eradicate malaria comes 2030. Further study that will characterize the genes of the parasite should be carried out.
Washington Global Health Alliance Discovery Series
Supamit Chinsuttiwat
May 22, 2008
'Response to Avian Influenza and Preparedness for Pandemic Influenza: Thailand's Experience'
Study of the Seroprevalence of Anti-Leptospirosis Antibodies in Subjects in T...IIJSRJournal
Leptospirosis is a tropical and subtropical zoonotic disease culminating as a serious public health problem worldwide, apparently existing as co-infections with various other unrelated diseases, such as malaria. It is caused by spiral bacteria and the main vectors of which are rodents. These bacteria have various survival mechanisms in the environment allowing them to carry out their infectious cycle within their host organisms. The pathophysiological mechanisms pertaining to leptospirosis is still not understood in full and mis or underdiagnosed.
A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in three different localities in Niamey where respondents were screened for to demonstrate transmission to humans. Indirect ELISA method as a laboratory diagnostic or screening toll is used by utilizing leptospiral-specific IgG from serum samples of the respondents.
Results from the study showed that 11 people are found to be positive for leptospirosis (with a seroprevalence of 2.75%) with a strong tendency in the slaughterhouse workers which presents a fairly high risk compared to the other localities of the study. Indeed, the different areas/localities of this pilot study do not present the same level of risk because they are not subject to the same risk associated factors. In this vein, we have 87.6% of population exposed to the presence of rats, 48% are in contact with animals, 38.6% live in homes near water and 12.9% go swimming.
This study made it possible, on the one hand, to highlight the transmission of leptospirosis from animals to humans and, on the other hand, to draw attention to the involvement of the various identified risk factors.
emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseasesAnil kumar
this presentation in about emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseases and their spatial spread with reference to time, surveillance, monitoring and management program and other difficulties and suggestions for program
Current Status of Lymphatic Filariasis in Sarangarh Tehsil, District Raigarh,...iosrjce
Local knowledge about lymphatic filariasis (LF) and their cause in villages of sarangarh tehsil,
district Raigarh, C. G. Sarangarh tehsil is endemic for lymphatic filariasis. During July to November 2014, a
lymphatic filariasis survey was carried out in six randomly selected villages and muhallas of sarangarh tehsil.
Quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data collection. 202 individuals had disease manifestation of
Lf. Female (55.44%) were more infected than male (44.55%), over all disease rate was (.70%) in all. Out of 202
diseased individuals, 57 male had hydrocele (28.21%), 126 had infected lower legs (62.36%) and 19 had
infected upper arm (9.40%). Major causes of lymphatic filariasis is due to less awareness, unhygienic
condition and late prevention. The present survey indicate that lymphatic filariasis is one of the major problem of public health in surveyed area.
Discovering novel pathways of cross-species pathogen transmissionEFSA EU
Presentation of the EFSA's second scientific conference, held on 14-16 October 2015 in Milan, Italy.
DRIVERS FOR EMERGING ISSUES IN ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH
Meningococcal carriage in the African meningitis belt and the impact of MenAfriVac: an overview of the MenAfriCar project
http://www.meningitis.org/conference2015
The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum in children below 12 years presenting...inventionjournals
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science Invention (IJPSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Pahrmaceutical Science. IJPSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
Assessment of Zooplankton Diversity in Kosavampatti Lake at Namakkal District...BRNSS Publication Hub
Kosavampatti Lake is a historical lake situated in Namakkal district. A lake usually helps in recharging groundwater, and the trees in and around the lake serve as a nesting place for birds. Zooplankton is the vital constituents of water flora which aids as the main component of the aquatic food chain. It sustains appropriate equilibrium between biotic and abiotic components of the water ecosystem. The present study aimed to deal with zooplankton diversity in Kosavampatti Lake. The investigation was carried out for 1 year, i.e., October 2017–September 2018. During the study period, the zooplankton population of Kosavampatti Lake water is characterized by five various classes, namely Protozoa, Cladocera, Copepoda, Ostracods, and Rotifera, with 19 different species which were noted and documented in Kosavampatti Lake. The main classes of Rotifera are the highest groups among zooplankton and the density of zooplankton community was higher in summer and lesser in monsoon. The results of various kinds of diversity indices strongly indicate that Kosavampatti Lake is absolutely polluted in nature.
Burden of Vector Borne Diseases Past, Present & FuturePradip Awate
Bharati Vidyapeeth Pune has recently organized National CME on VBDs. I delivered a speech on " Burden of Vector Borne Diseases Past, Present & Future".
This presentation deals with burden of prominent VBDs globally & in India with special reference to Maharashtra.
Assessment of landfill sites for solid waste management in Delta state, NigeriaPremier Publishers
Landfills remains an important component in waste management as it deals with municipal solid waste directly and complements alternative waste management technologies, which in themselves give rise to residues that require disposal ultimately via landfill. As an assessment study, the work was carried out by visitation to existing dumpsites to obtain needed data and information through the instrumentation of a checklist, interviews, questionnaire and focus group discussions. Stratified random sampling was also used to provide appropriate representation of the societal classes in the population across the 25 Local Government Areas in the State. Results showed that most solid waste collected are deposited in open dumpsites/ landfills on the outskirts of urban areas thereby forming breeding sites for disease vectors and polluting the environment and plausible recommendations for improved waste and environmental management in the State.
Soil quality in the vicinity of palm oil mills in Umuahia, NigeriaPremier Publishers
The study focused on the effect of the palm oil mill effluent (POME) on the physico-chemical parameters of agricultural soil within Umuahia. The soil samples were collected from the areas where the POME was discharged. The following parameters were analyzed: particle size, organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, available phosphorus, exchangeable cations (Na, K, Ca, Mg), electrical conductivity. Digested samples were also analyzed for heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu) using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results of the physico-chemical analysis showed that the discharge of POME onto the soil causes the degradation of soil physico-chemical properties and increase heavy metal contamination.
Study of the Seroprevalence of Anti-Leptospirosis Antibodies in Subjects in T...IIJSRJournal
Leptospirosis is a tropical and subtropical zoonotic disease culminating as a serious public health problem worldwide, apparently existing as co-infections with various other unrelated diseases, such as malaria. It is caused by spiral bacteria and the main vectors of which are rodents. These bacteria have various survival mechanisms in the environment allowing them to carry out their infectious cycle within their host organisms. The pathophysiological mechanisms pertaining to leptospirosis is still not understood in full and mis or underdiagnosed.
A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in three different localities in Niamey where respondents were screened for to demonstrate transmission to humans. Indirect ELISA method as a laboratory diagnostic or screening toll is used by utilizing leptospiral-specific IgG from serum samples of the respondents.
Results from the study showed that 11 people are found to be positive for leptospirosis (with a seroprevalence of 2.75%) with a strong tendency in the slaughterhouse workers which presents a fairly high risk compared to the other localities of the study. Indeed, the different areas/localities of this pilot study do not present the same level of risk because they are not subject to the same risk associated factors. In this vein, we have 87.6% of population exposed to the presence of rats, 48% are in contact with animals, 38.6% live in homes near water and 12.9% go swimming.
This study made it possible, on the one hand, to highlight the transmission of leptospirosis from animals to humans and, on the other hand, to draw attention to the involvement of the various identified risk factors.
emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseasesAnil kumar
this presentation in about emerging and re-emerging vector borne diseases and their spatial spread with reference to time, surveillance, monitoring and management program and other difficulties and suggestions for program
Current Status of Lymphatic Filariasis in Sarangarh Tehsil, District Raigarh,...iosrjce
Local knowledge about lymphatic filariasis (LF) and their cause in villages of sarangarh tehsil,
district Raigarh, C. G. Sarangarh tehsil is endemic for lymphatic filariasis. During July to November 2014, a
lymphatic filariasis survey was carried out in six randomly selected villages and muhallas of sarangarh tehsil.
Quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data collection. 202 individuals had disease manifestation of
Lf. Female (55.44%) were more infected than male (44.55%), over all disease rate was (.70%) in all. Out of 202
diseased individuals, 57 male had hydrocele (28.21%), 126 had infected lower legs (62.36%) and 19 had
infected upper arm (9.40%). Major causes of lymphatic filariasis is due to less awareness, unhygienic
condition and late prevention. The present survey indicate that lymphatic filariasis is one of the major problem of public health in surveyed area.
Discovering novel pathways of cross-species pathogen transmissionEFSA EU
Presentation of the EFSA's second scientific conference, held on 14-16 October 2015 in Milan, Italy.
DRIVERS FOR EMERGING ISSUES IN ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH
Meningococcal carriage in the African meningitis belt and the impact of MenAfriVac: an overview of the MenAfriCar project
http://www.meningitis.org/conference2015
The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum in children below 12 years presenting...inventionjournals
International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science Invention (IJPSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Pahrmaceutical Science. IJPSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
Assessment of Zooplankton Diversity in Kosavampatti Lake at Namakkal District...BRNSS Publication Hub
Kosavampatti Lake is a historical lake situated in Namakkal district. A lake usually helps in recharging groundwater, and the trees in and around the lake serve as a nesting place for birds. Zooplankton is the vital constituents of water flora which aids as the main component of the aquatic food chain. It sustains appropriate equilibrium between biotic and abiotic components of the water ecosystem. The present study aimed to deal with zooplankton diversity in Kosavampatti Lake. The investigation was carried out for 1 year, i.e., October 2017–September 2018. During the study period, the zooplankton population of Kosavampatti Lake water is characterized by five various classes, namely Protozoa, Cladocera, Copepoda, Ostracods, and Rotifera, with 19 different species which were noted and documented in Kosavampatti Lake. The main classes of Rotifera are the highest groups among zooplankton and the density of zooplankton community was higher in summer and lesser in monsoon. The results of various kinds of diversity indices strongly indicate that Kosavampatti Lake is absolutely polluted in nature.
Burden of Vector Borne Diseases Past, Present & FuturePradip Awate
Bharati Vidyapeeth Pune has recently organized National CME on VBDs. I delivered a speech on " Burden of Vector Borne Diseases Past, Present & Future".
This presentation deals with burden of prominent VBDs globally & in India with special reference to Maharashtra.
Assessment of landfill sites for solid waste management in Delta state, NigeriaPremier Publishers
Landfills remains an important component in waste management as it deals with municipal solid waste directly and complements alternative waste management technologies, which in themselves give rise to residues that require disposal ultimately via landfill. As an assessment study, the work was carried out by visitation to existing dumpsites to obtain needed data and information through the instrumentation of a checklist, interviews, questionnaire and focus group discussions. Stratified random sampling was also used to provide appropriate representation of the societal classes in the population across the 25 Local Government Areas in the State. Results showed that most solid waste collected are deposited in open dumpsites/ landfills on the outskirts of urban areas thereby forming breeding sites for disease vectors and polluting the environment and plausible recommendations for improved waste and environmental management in the State.
Soil quality in the vicinity of palm oil mills in Umuahia, NigeriaPremier Publishers
The study focused on the effect of the palm oil mill effluent (POME) on the physico-chemical parameters of agricultural soil within Umuahia. The soil samples were collected from the areas where the POME was discharged. The following parameters were analyzed: particle size, organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, available phosphorus, exchangeable cations (Na, K, Ca, Mg), electrical conductivity. Digested samples were also analyzed for heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu) using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results of the physico-chemical analysis showed that the discharge of POME onto the soil causes the degradation of soil physico-chemical properties and increase heavy metal contamination.
How the news media have failed to interrogate the concept of failed state, th...Premier Publishers
This study examines the concept of “Failed State” presently in vogue, and how this term has been wrongly used in the news media, the case of Pakistan (since 2005).Edward Newman categorized three types of opinion regarding the concept of failed state among scholars, first one is in the favour and call it a useful, second view considers its a weak and not systematically reliable and last one is highly against this term and calls it an ethnocentric and hegemonic political agenda. This study analyses the case of Pakistan under this context and finding of the study endorses the argument of those scholars, who see the term failed state as an ethnocentric and hegemonic political agenda. This study critically analyses the discourses of news reports and think tanks indexes that labelled Pakistan a failed state. This paper argues that this term has been overlooked and left to the savants for debate. The labelling of failed state by the news media produces drastic repercussions for the labelled nations, hence needs thorough investigation.
Biological Control to Maintain Natural Densities of Insects and Mites by Fiel...Premier Publishers
In the present study, the biological control of insects and mites to maintain their natural densities by field releases of lady beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is analyzed. Female lady beetles may lay from 20 to more than 1000 eggs over a one to three month period, near prey such as aphids in protected sites on leaves and stems. Lady beetles have hefty appetites and one tiny alligator like larva can eat over two dozen aphids a day, and single adult can eat over twice of that much. In other words, one larva will eat about 400 medium-size aphids during its development to pupal stage and an adult lady beetle may eat over 5,000 aphids during its lifetime (about a year). Usually, reddish-orange lady beetles eat aphids, and darker ones more often eat spider mites, whiteflies and scale insects. The best time to release lady beetles into garden is late in afternoon or at sundown, which can encourage them to stay for night and find suitable food and protection. Dampen the ground or plants before releasing of lady beetles, can encourage them to stay and drink water. About 1000 lady beetles can rid an acre of ground from most of soft-bodied pests and release beetles at base of plants at 20 feet apart or more so that they can hunt for food. Ability of collected lady beetles to reproduce is suspended (reproductive diapause), so eggs are not produced for several weeks after release. Pre-fed lady beetles prior to release can allow some eggs maturation, but few researchers or companies also provide such pre-conditioned lady beetles. The trends of prey devouring demonstrate profound effects that lady beetle may have on target and non-target pests, and highlight their importance for initiating of biological control programs.
Studies on the impact of crude oil exploration on soil quality and crops grow...Premier Publishers
The present study evaluated the impact of crude oil exploration on soil quality and crops grown in Kpean Community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0-50cm3 using plastic auger while tuber crops and vegetables were harvested from the same spot as the soils. Findings from this study showed an increase in soil temperature, moisture, electrical conductivity and organic matter content of crude oil impacted soil compared to control (P<0.05).soil><0.05).><0.05)><0.05). The results of this study indicates that crude oil pollution of agricultural farmlands in Kpean Community is yet to be remedied even after 20 years following oil spillage and the soil still remain unsuitable for crop production. Hence, proper remediation of the studied area is paramount in order to reduce metal accumulation and subsequent exposure of the populace to metal poisoning via food chain.
Higher secondary school teachers' attitude towards second degree in physics: ...Premier Publishers
The goal of this paper is to understand the attitude of teachers for second degree in physics in Eastern part of Ethiopia. This study adopts a qualitative approach. Questionnaires written for open-ended responses were administered to a sample of 100 high school teachers. Content analysis was used to interpret diverse responses pertaining to teachers who want to continue further education on their first background. Both descriptive and quantitative methods were used to discuss the result. The study revealed that there is significant number of teachers who doesn’t want to pursue higher education in physics. Although the obtained result shows that most of the respondents are interested to upgrade their academic qualification, the number of teachers’ who lost interest for further education in their first background is very significant, more than 20% of the total number of respondents, which is an alarming quantity and shows the threat that research and postgraduate program in this field are facing.
Estimation of association among growth and yield related traits in Bread Whea...Premier Publishers
A total of twenty five bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes were evaluated for trait association and path coefficient analysis among yield and yield contributing traits at Gurage zone of two different environments. The genotypes were grown in triplicate randomized complete block design. Data were collected on 13 agronomic characters. It was found results that grain yield showed positive and significant correlations with above ground biomass, tillers per plant, kernel per spike, spikelet per spike and plant height at Fereziye and negatively correlated with tiller per plant (rg= -0.535) and plant height (rg= -0.284) at Kotergedra. Selection on the basis of positive association of grain yield with its contributing traits may be helpful to improve grain yield of wheat. Path coefficient analysis revealed that above ground biomass and tillers per plant exerted high and favorable direct effects on grain yield at Fereziye. Both genotypic and phenotypic correlation and path coefficient analysis revealed that grain filling period exerted high and favorable direct effect on grain yield at Kotergedra which indicated that selection on such traits may be useful to improve the grain yield. It was moreover suggested that the evaluation of wheat genotypes for grain yield under multi-zonal locations should be carried out to exploit more yield potential.
Occurrence and antibiotic susceptibility of Streptococcus pyogenes isolated f...Premier Publishers
A total of 24 throat samples were collected from Patients in Federal Medical Centre Umuahia, Abia State, to evaluate the prevalence of S. pyogenes and its antibiotic sensitivity. 17(70.8%) samples yielded Streptococcus pyogenes which was identified following some identification test. The incident rate was higher among those within the age of 5-25 years (53%). 58% of the isolate were from females. S. pyogenens showed 100% sensitivity to levofloxacin, vancomycin, penicillin G and amoxicillin and was resistant to tetracycline (58.8%). Penicillin, amoxicillin, levofloxacin and vancomycin could serve at first line drug of choice for the treatment of S. pyogenes infection.
Usage spots of biological insecticides in consort with target insect pests or...Premier Publishers
The greatest risks to our environment and health come from chemical insecticides, therefore, overall objective of this article is to protect health of consumer and ensure fair practices in insect and vector controls. Biological insecticides are living organisms or toxins produced by bacteria, viruses and fungi having low toxicity to humans and non-target insects. Bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis and Baculo virus infect an insect when it ingests them. Others microorganisms, such as fungi, Beauveria bassiana, deposit themselves on insect’s carapace and infiltrate organism that is fatal to ravaging pests. The B. thuringiensis is an insecticidal bacterium, marketed worldwide for control of many important plant pests, mainly caterpillars of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), but also mosquitoes and simuliid blackflies vectors. Commercial Bt products are powders containing mixture of dried spores and toxin crystals used on crops and ornamental plants, around buildings, in aquatic settings, and in aerial applications that are commonly sprays, dusts, granules and pellets. Some crops have been engineered to make the Bt toxin and these plant-incorporated protectants include corn, cotton, and soybeans. Baculo viruses are widely used both as protein expression in vectors and as insect pest control agents, and progress has been made in genetic enhancement of baculo viruses for improved insecticidal efficacy. Treating of crops and stagnant water or pools with Bt can definitely decrease the number of pests and vectors larvae, and therefore, number of adults, but growers and householders may still need to use traps, repellants or other control methods to prevent all pests in an area.
Antioxidant potentials of tannic acid on lipid peroxidation induced by severa...Premier Publishers
Various prospective studies have indicated the antioxidant potency of tannic acid in several models. However, there is no clear-cut evidence revealing that the reported antioxidant properties of tannic acid remains potent regardless of the lipid sources and pro-oxidants employed for the oxidative assault. Hence, this study sought to investigate the antioxidant properties of tannic acid against cerebral and hepatic lipid peroxidation induced by several pro-oxidants (Iron (II) sulfate, Sodium nitroprusside, cyclophosphamide and acetaminophen) in vitro. Rats were decapitated under mild ether anesthesia and the tissues were rapidly dissected, placed on ice, weighed and immediately homogenized in cold 50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4 (1/10, w/v). The homogenates were centrifuged for 10 min at 4000 g to yield a pellet that was discarded and a low-speed supernatant (S1). Our results indicated that Fe (II) showed the highest pro-oxidative effects in both tissues lipids. Furthermore, tannic acid demonstrated potent inhibitory effects against lipid peroxidation in both tissues lipids regardless of the pro-oxidant employed. To this end, there is a dire need to exploit the protective benefits of tannic acid as a potential exogenous antioxidant against lipid peroxidation with a view to providing solution to the global oxidative stress menace.
Perspective View of Stakeholders into the Impact of Construction Industries D...Premier Publishers
The main objective of this paper is to explore the views of developers about the impact of construction industries development on the environment to ascertain feasibility practice of sustainable construction principles. A survey of developers registered with REHDA community was conducted to assess their views on the impact of construction industries development on the environment when implementation of their projects. Results reveal that environment problems are the effect of construction industries development. Furthermore, results identified a need for adopting environmental sound management approach in construction projects. Developers are very important people, who can play a significant role in planning and implementing sustainability strategies for the construction sector so environment and natural energies can be preserved for good. Cross-section views of these developers form the basis of this study, thus, it was a cross-sectional study based on the relationship of construction industries with environment within Penang. The study magnified the effect of localized construction industries into the environment, which was concurrent with the worldwide issues happening in the contemporary environment. The study of these relationships explores the current environmental practices in depth and incurs the attention of implementation of sustainability performance in built environment.
Remediation technologies for saline soils: a case study of MexicoPremier Publishers
Through a literature review, the problems that arise with soil salinization in arid and semiarid areas mainly and especially the case of Mexico were analyzed. The origin is assessed, the principles for the recovery of salinized soil, biremediación and current technologies. Also some future projections for these processes are shown. Finally it is concluded that the issue of soil bioremediation, is relatively recent and several of the technologies applied are still in test mode since its effectiveness in many cases has to do with the soil and climatic conditions of the region where used. Technologies can be varied, as used it refers to the application of washes the floor and the supply of gypsum as amended. Something a little more recent but equally longer used is the application of compost as a means to reclaim saline soil. Most remediation technologies and companies dedicated to providing these services are dedicated almost exclusively to treat soils that have been contaminated by hydrocarbons. In Mexico there are 234 companies dedicated to offering services land reclamation.
Use of radio as a tool for promoting integrated pest management among farmers...Premier Publishers
This study took a look at the place of radio in the improvement of farming practices among the farmers in Shika community in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The focus of the study was the use of radio for sensitizing farmers on integrated pest management. The objectives of the study were; examining the importance of radio as a source of agricultural information to farmers in Shika, ascertaining the level of farmers’ awareness of chemical pest control and determining how Radio can be used as a communication channel for promoting chemical pest control among farmers in Shika. Survey research method was used for the study, while copies of structured questionnaire were administered to 60 respondents purposively selected and descriptive data analysis technique was used to present and analyze the data. The findings included the fact that people of Shika do not have requisite agricultural information needed for pest control hence, there is high rate of pest attacks on their farms, the radio stations in the area rarely broadcast issues related to pest control, while there is low extension attention to the community. Improved access to agricultural information on Radio, through the Hausa language could lead to pest control needed for improved agricultural productivity in Shika community.
Influence of Sodium Chloride on germination, and Zinc, Copper, Zinc-Copper mi...Premier Publishers
Seed germination and seedling performance of Dorke and Omankwa corn varieties were investigated under varying salinity, copper and zinc concentrations. Sample analyses were done using AAS. Germination of both seeds decreased with increasing Sodium chloride. When NaCl was increased from 3 to 6ppm, the range of germination of Dorke seeds reduced from 33 - 20% while that of Omankwa seeds reduced from 20% to 13.3%. 85.5% germination in 60mMNaCl was the highest in Dorke and 72.2% germination in 90mMNaCl was the lowest. 87.8% germination in 30mMNaCl was the highest for Omankwa hybrid, 30% in 90mM being its lowest. Cu2+ accumulated more in the roots than shoot of both hybrids, while Zn2+ accumulated more in their shoots than the roots. Highest mean fresh weight of Dorke was recorded in moderate Cu2+ and Zn2+. Also highest mean fresh weight of Omankwa hybrid occurred under low Cu2+ level and moderate Zn2+ levels, but was highest in higher levels of Zn2+ and Cu2+ mixture. From the study, farmers are advised against planting the two hybrids in alkaline soils and to apply Cu2+/Zn2+ based fertilizers to improve photosynthetic activity and biomass.
Thyroid hormones parameters of patients with thyroid disorders attending spe...Premier Publishers
Thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxin (T4), affect almost all metabolic activities of tissues and are produced under influence of the interior pituitary hormone, the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates secretion of thyroid releasing hormone (TRH). The present study was conducted to observe the effect of non-detectable levels of TSH on thyroid hormones, on the basis of gender and age. A total of 88 patients (50 patients with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism and 33 healthy people as control) attending special out-patient clinic were involved in the study. Serums T3, T4 and TSH were measured using the commercially available kits (Abbot Laboratories) through Enzyme Immune Assay (EIA) technique (Roche Diagnostics GmbH). Analysis of data using SPSS software version 15.0 revealed that prevalence of thyroid disorders in the studied group was more among female population. However, the disorders were not age dependent. Most common conditions associated with sub-clinical hyperthyroidism. As males are equally exposed to these environmental factors, hence further investigations are required to know why these factors affect females more than the males. In our opinion, TSH and FT4 are the most valuable indicators in assessing thyroid function in a healthy population and TSH and TT4 are the most meaningful in hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
The prevalence of Escherichia coli Causing Urinary Tract Infections in Aminu ...Premier Publishers
Urinary Tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common causes of hospital visit worldwide. The study intends to find the prevalence of Escherichia coli in Urinary tract infection cases in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano. A comprehensive study was conducted on E coli for its prevalence in urine samples, of queried cases of urinary tract infection in patients attending Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano. Two hundred and fourteen urine specimens comprising of 123(57.5%) females and 91(42.5%) males of all age group were screened for bacteria. Of the 214 samples, 68 representing (31.80%) were culture positive with E. coli having 32(47.06%), Klebsiella spp 18(26.47%), Staphylococcus spp 10(14.70%), Proteus spp 6(8.82%) and Pseudomonas spp 2(2.94%). Out of the 32(47.6%) of E. coli isolated, 22 were from female and 10 were from males, the highest prevalence occurred within the age range of 21-30 with females taking the lead. Antibiogram of the isolated E. coli showed a markedly good sensitivity of ofloxacin (96.87%), nitrofurantoin and nalidixic acid (93.70%), colistin phosphate (90.62%) and gentamicin (68.75%). E. coli showed the least sensitivity to ampicillin (18.75%). The frequency of E. coli obtained suggests its high prevalence. And this can be reduced using Flouroquinolones as exhibited by the susceptibility profile in this study.
Impact of agro-ecosystem on risk management in agriculture in some selected a...Premier Publishers
This definite study was conducted based on the relationship of agro-ecosystem and the income level to judge the risk in farming among the respondents in the study areas. The reason for the study was to clarify the farmers about the risks and uncertainties in farming. Three Upazilas namely Gouripur, Ishwarganj and Haluaghat from Mymensingh district were selected with a view to analyzing the changes of biodiversity and its impact on income diversification. Several indexes like Shannon, richness, evenness, dominance and income diversity index were calculated for the plants, animals etc. to measure the changes among these species and its contribution on income level. The study was conducted in 2014 and the mean income index was found highest (2.15) in Ishwarganj which means the respondents were earning from more than two sources that helped them to reduce risk in farming. Most of the respondents in Ishwarganj were involved in tree plantation, animal rearing, vegetables cultivation or business that lead the highest richness indexes (2.68) and (0.61) in plant and animal rearing than other two areas. The dominance indexes were also found lowest (0.40) and (0.30) respectively that lead to the diversification of enterprises.
Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity evaluation of aqueous and ...Premier Publishers
Azadirachta indica Juss (neem) is a plant which has been used for a long time as traditional medicine for household remedy against various human ailments from antiquity. To evaluate the scientific basis for the use of Azadirachta indica, both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the dried leaves of the plant were subjected to phytochemical screening and determination of anti-microbial activity on six different species of bacteria and a fungus. The phytochemical screening of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of dried powdered leaves of the plant was done using standard methods. The antimicrobial activity of the concentrated extracts was evaluated by determination of the diameter of zone of inhibition against the microorganisms using agar well diffusion method. The Phytochemical screening of the test plant revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, cardiac glucosides, phenols, resins, tannins, terpenes and steroids. Although, both plant extracts had antimicrobial effects against the test organisms, the aqueous extracts were found to show greater anti-microbial effect than ethanolic extract. Thus, the mean diameter zones of inhibition ranged from 0.03mm-40.00mm for aqueous extract and 0.50mm-21.00mm for ethanolic extract at the highest concentration of 50mg/ml. The finding of this study supports the use of neem leaf in the treatment of various microbial infections by alternative systems of medicine.
Malaria parasitaemia and socioeconomic status of selected residents of Emohua...IOSRJPBS
In Nigeria, malaria consistently ranks among the five most common cause of death in children. This study investigated the prevalence of malaria and socioeconomic status of someresidents of Emohua Community, Rivers State, Nigeria.Following ethical clearance which was obtained from the University of Port Harcourt and the parents of the subjects who gave their written consents, blood samples were collected through vein puncture from 200 subjects within the age 0-17years, from July 2014-February 2015. Structured questionnaire were administered to the subjects and parents provided answers for younger children.Thick and Thin films were examined microscopically using oil immersion objective following the standardparasitological method. The thin films were fixed with methanol and all films were stained with 10% Giemsa stain diluted with 7.2 buffer water for 10 minutes. The demographic characteristics of 200 subjects examined in Emohua showed that 120(60%) were females and 60(40%) were males. Sex related prevalence showed that more females were infected with 66(62.3%) and had higher parasite density of 144720/ul than males with 40 (37.7%) and parasite density of 106160/ul though the difference was not significant (P>0.05). Out of the 200 subjects examined, 106(53.0%) were positive for Plasmodium falciparum. Age related prevalence showed that subjects within the age 0-3years and 4-6years had higher prevalence of 62 (31%) followed by those within the age 7-9years with 31(15.5%) and the least with zero prevalence was within the age 16-18 years. Those within the age of 4-6years had higher parasite density of 71680/ul followed by 0-3years of age with parasite density of 63360/ul while those within the age 16-18yrs had none (0). The difference in prevalence of malaria in relation to age was significant (P<0.05).>0.05). Subjects that used treated net were more with 117(58.5%), followed by those that do not use net at all with 54(27%) and those whose nets were untreated with 28(14%). Only 1(0.5%) person believed in the potency of prayer as a preventive measure against malaria while none trusted environmental sanitation. Subjects that are non- net users had higher prevalence of 46(85.2%) and more parasite density of 98080/ul followed by the untreated net users with 22(78.6%) and parasite density of 77280/ul while the least prevalence was recorded among the treated net users with 38(32.5%) and parasite density of 75520/ul. The differences in prevalence of infection in relation to preventive measures was significant (P<0.05).more><0.05).There is need to improve socio-economic status and awareness for total compliance to preventive measures among the subjects so as to reduce the malaria prevalence rate to the desired zero level
This was a prospective cross sectional hospital based study included 117 patients with a definitive history of snake bite and clinical features consistent with the pres¬ence of fang marks at the emergency department, Gadarif Hospital, Eastern Sudan from 1st January 2015 to 1st January 2016 to identify the epidemiological factors of snake bite. The majority of these 117 patients were adult (86.3%) and male gender constituted 85.4%. Most of the patients were of rural residence (65.8%) and were involved in farming related activities (68.3%). A relatively high proportion of snake bite episodes happened in the afternoon times (53.9%) and half of the cases were reported during August (18%) and November. (12.8%). Lower limbs were involved in maximum number of the cases (83.7%). The reported systemic reaction included: swelling (100%), sweating (100%), hypotension (54.7%), nausea (51.%), vomiting (47.8%), local bleeding (13.6%), hymoptysis (1.7%) and neurotoxic symptoms (0.8%). In this study, there were ten (8.5%) deaths; 7 had grade 3 and the other three patients had grade 4 envenomation. In conclusion Snake bites is a real medical threat in Eastern Sudan; thus, it is very important to educate the native people to increase awareness about the risk of snake bites in particular among male, farmers and during the period from August to November.
Interepidemic Seroepidemiological Survey of Rift Valley Fever in Garissa, KenyaMark Nanyingi
Background: Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a vector-borne zoonotic disease that is caused by phlebovirus and transmitted primarily by aedes mosquitoes. RVF outbreaks have led to significant effects to human and animal health in the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula. The economic impact of 1997-98, 2000 and 2006-2007 outbreaks due to massive livestock abortions, deaths, acute human illness and deaths was estimated at over $ 500 million. We hypothesize there is consistent virus circulation in RVF endemic areas of Northern Kenya and RVF epidemics have potential associations with environmental and climatic parameters. The objective of this study was to detect circulation of RVFV in goats, sheep and cattle in Garissa County, Kenya during the inter-epidemic period (IEP).
Methodology: We performed a cross-sectional surveillance of ruminants in RVF high risk areas of Garissa County, Kenya. Periodic blood sampling of sheep, goats and cattle was done in March 2012 and July 2013. Serological analysis for total antiRVF antibodies for 370 ruminants was investigated using a multispecies competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. Host risk factors for RVFV seropositivity were examined by both univariable analysis and mixed effects logistic regression model. Unadjusted odds ratios (OR) for seropositivity were estimated using log linear regression model.
Results: The overall seroprevalence for the 370 ruminants was 27.6%. Sheep (n= 87) and cattle (n= 12) had higher prevalence 32.2% (CI [20.6 -31]) and 33.3% (CI [6.7 -60]) respectively than goats (n = 271), 25.8% (CI [22.4 – 42]). Seropostivity in males was 31.8% (CI [22.2-31.8]) higher than 27% (CI [18.1-45.6]) in females. There was an increased likelihood of higher seropositivity in old (OR 18.24, CI [5.26 -116.4]), p < 0.0001) than young animals.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates the widespread serological evidence and potential RVFV circulation among domestic ruminants in Garissa district thus indicative of an endemic reservoir of infection. There is need for increased preparedness and response in RVF endemic areas by conducting animal-human syndromic sero-surveillance as part of one health early warning system.
Interepidemic Seroepidemiological Survey of Rift Valley Fever in Garissa, KenyaMark Nanyingi
Background: Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a vector-borne zoonotic disease that is caused by phlebovirus and transmitted primarily by aedes mosquitoes. RVF outbreaks have led to significant effects to human and animal health in the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula. The economic impact of 1997-98, 2000 and 2006-2007 outbreaks due to massive livestock abortions, deaths, acute human illness and deaths was estimated at over $ 500 million. We hypothesize there is consistent virus circulation in RVF endemic areas of Northern Kenya and RVF epidemics have potential associations with environmental and climatic parameters. The objective of this study was to detect circulation of RVFV in goats, sheep and cattle in Garissa County, Kenya during the inter-epidemic period (IEP).
Methodology: We performed a cross-sectional surveillance of ruminants in RVF high risk areas of Garissa County, Kenya. Periodic blood sampling of sheep, goats and cattle was done in March 2012 and July 2013. Serological analysis for total antiRVF antibodies for 370 ruminants was investigated using a multispecies competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. Host risk factors for RVFV seropositivity were examined by both univariable analysis and mixed effects logistic regression model. Unadjusted odds ratios (OR) for seropositivity were estimated using log linear regression model.
Results: The overall seroprevalence for the 370 ruminants was 27.6%. Sheep (n= 87) and cattle (n= 12) had higher prevalence 32.2% (CI [20.6 -31]) and 33.3% (CI [6.7 -60]) respectively than goats (n = 271), 25.8% (CI [22.4 – 42]). Seropostivity in males was 31.8% (CI [22.2-31.8]) higher than 27% (CI [18.1-45.6]) in females. There was an increased likelihood of higher seropositivity in old (OR 18.24, CI [5.26 -116.4]), p < 0.0001) than young animals.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates the widespread serological evidence and potential RVFV circulation among domestic ruminants in Garissa district thus indicative of an endemic reservoir of infection. There is need for increased preparedness and response in RVF endemic areas by conducting animal-human syndromic sero-surveillance as part of one health early warning system.
Ebola Virus Disease: An Emerging Global Public Health Concernpaperpublications3
Abstract: Ebola virus disease (EVD) formerly known as, Ebola haemorrhagic fever (EHF) is one of the most severe viral HFs often characterized by the sudden onset of fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function, and in some cases, both internal and external bleeding. The 2014 Ebola outbreak is the largest Ebola outbreak in history and the first Ebola outbreak in West Africa affecting multiple countries in West Africa e.g. Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The current outbreak threatens to spread more and cross the boundaries of West Africa to establish itself in realms of different continents. India is also vulnerable due to its susceptible ecosystem and unprepared health system. Our healthcare systems as well as communities are clearly not sensitised to the extent of the danger this possess, it’s time to take action before it is far too late.
This study evaluated the prevalence of malaria parasite among pregnant and non pregnant women attending Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owerri Imo State Nigeria within the age range of 21-50 years. The molecular identification and speciation of the malaria parasites were carried out using different diagnostic techniques. The blood samples were analyzed using microscopy, Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Results using the microscopy for pregnant women was 181(90.5%) and for non pregnant women, it was 185(92.5%) within the age range of under 21, 41 and above. The result of RDT for pregnant women was 58(32.0%) and for non pregnant women were 46(24.9%). However, the age group of pregnant women that had the highest occurrence of malaria using microscopy was (21-25yrs) with 100% of persons tested positive and (41-45yrs) with 78.8% had the lowest occurrence. For non pregnant women, the age group that had the highest occurrence of malaria parasite was (31-35yrs) with 95.3%of persons reporting tested reporting positive while, (21-25yrs) with 84.6% had the lowest occurrence. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used for the speciation of the parasites and the result revealed that Plasmodium falciparum in pregnant women within the ages of 46-50yrs had the highest (96.0%) prevalent followed by Plasmodium vivax for women within the ages of 21-25yrs had the highest (13.6%) occurrence, Plasmodium malariae for women within the ages 21-25yrs and had the highest (9.4%) occurrence. In this study, Polymerase Chain Reaction was very sensitive, takes more large samples at a time and specific for both P. falciparum and non falciparum Plasmodium infections and has many diagnostic advantages over microscopy. Out of 400 venous blood samples collected from both pregnant and non-pregnant women, 27 blood samples had mixed malaria parasite infections. Therefore, following this study, it will be recommended that we urge the pharmaceutical companies to improve on the manufacturing of broad-spectrum antimalarial drugs to cover all species of Plasmodium as it’s done with antimicrobials not only concentrating on the drugs for the treatment of P. falciparum alone.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of Coxiella burnetii (Q fever) infection amon...ILRI
Presentation by D.K. Mwololo, P.M. Kitala, S.K. Wanyoike and B. Bett at the 9th biennial scientific conference and exhibition of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nairobi, 3-5 September 2014.
Malaria Control Strategies among Rural Dwellers in a Typical Nigerian Settingasclepiuspdfs
Malaria is a major public health problem in sub-Saharan African, including Nigeria, causing 63% of total outpatient attendance in health facilities, 30% under-five mortality, and 11% of maternal mortality. Malaria control practices remain a major strategy in the combat of this menace. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the malaria control strategies utilized among rural dwellers in the Ezza North local government area (LGA) of Ebonyi state.
Involvement of Helicobacter Pylori in the Genesis of Precancerous Stomach Les...semualkaira
Helicobacter Pylori is a bacterium involved in the genesis of precancerous lesions of the stomach. This infection is universally
prevalent but is higher in developing countries. A retrospective
study spread over 3 years (2018-2019-2020) was conducted at the
pathological anatomy laboratory of the Chadli Bendjedid Hospital
in El Tarf, northeast Algeria. All patients were submitted to a fiberscope, and the diagnosis was established by histological examination. The results show that of the 134 patients examined, 100%
were diagnosed with chronic gastritis. The prevalence of H. pylori
infection was 61.94%; 63.86% of women were affected, and the
most susceptible age group was 50-59 years; 36.14% of men were
affected, mainly in the age group 30-39 years. Locally, the fundic antrum area appeared to be the most affected (81.93%) with
moderate chronic atrophic gastritis (78.57%) and silent activity
(94.28%), which favors the development of cancer cells.
Involvement of Helicobacter Pylori in the Genesis of Precancerous Stomach Les...semualkaira
Helicobacter Pylori is a bacterium involved in the genesis of precancerous lesions of the stomach. This infection is universally
prevalent but is higher in developing countries. A retrospective
study spread over 3 years (2018-2019-2020) was conducted at the
pathological anatomy laboratory of the Chadli Bendjedid Hospital
in El Tarf, northeast Algeria. All patients were submitted to a fiberscope, and the diagnosis was established by histological examination. The results show that of the 134 patients examined, 100%
were diagnosed with chronic gastritis. The prevalence of H. pylori
infection was 61.94%; 63.86% of women were affected, and the
most susceptible age group was 50-59 years; 36.14% of men were
affected, mainly in the age group 30-39 years. Locally, the fundic antrum area appeared to be the most affected (81.93%) with
moderate chronic atrophic gastritis (78.57%) and silent activity
(94.28%), which favors the development of cancer cells.
Involvement of Helicobacter Pylori in the Genesis of Precancerous Stomach Les...semualkaira
Helicobacter Pylori is a bacterium involved in the genesis of precancerous lesions of the stomach. This infection is universally
prevalent but is higher in developing countries. A retrospective
study spread over 3 years (2018-2019-2020) was conducted at the
pathological anatomy laboratory of the Chadli Bendjedid Hospital
in El Tarf, northeast Algeria. All patients were submitted to a fiberscope, and the diagnosis was established by histological examination. The results show that of the 134 patients examined, 100%
were diagnosed with chronic gastritis. The prevalence of H. pylori
infection was 61.94%; 63.86% of women were affected, and the
most susceptible age group was 50-59 years; 36.14% of men were
affected, mainly in the age group 30-39 years. Locally, the fundic antrum area appeared to be the most affected (81.93%) with
moderate chronic atrophic gastritis (78.57%) and silent activity
(94.28%), which favors the development of cancer cells.
Evaluation of Agro-morphological Performances of Hybrid Varieties of Chili Pe...Premier Publishers
In Benin, chilli pepper is a widely consumed as vegetable whose production requires the use of performant varieties. This work assessed, at Parakou and Malanville, the performance of six F1 hybrids of chilli including five imported (Laali, Laser, Nandi, Kranti, Nandita) and one local (De cayenne), in completely randomized block design at four replications and 15 plants per elementary plot. Agro-morphological data were collected and submitted to analysis of variance and factor analysis of mixed data. The results showed the effects of variety, location and their interactions were highly significant for most of the growth, earliness and yield traits. Imported hybrid varieties showed the best performances compared to the local one. Multivariate analysis revealed that 'De cayenne' was earlier, short in size, thin-stemmed, red fruits and less yielding (≈ 1 t.ha-1). The imported hybrids LaaliF1 and KrantiF1 were of strong vegetative vigor, more yielding (> 6 t.ha-1) by developing larger, long and hard fruits. Other hybrids showed intermediate performances. This study highlighted the importance of imported hybrids in improving yield and preservation of chili fruits. However, stability and adaptation analyses to local conditions are necessary for their adoption.
An Empirical Approach for the Variation in Capital Market Price Changes Premier Publishers
The chances of an investor in the stock market depends mainly on some certain decisions in respect to equilibrium prices, which is the condition of a system competing favorably and effectively. This paper considered a stochastic model which was latter transformed to non-linear ordinary differential equation where stock volatility was used as a key parameter. The analytical solution was obtained which determined the equilibrium prices. A theorem was developed and proved to show that the proposed mathematical model follows a normal distribution since it has a symmetric property. Finally, graphical results were presented and the effects of the relevant parameters were discussed.
Influence of Nitrogen and Spacing on Growth and Yield of Chia (Salvia hispani...Premier Publishers
Chia is an emerging cash crop in Kenya and its production is inhibited by lack of agronomic management information. A field experiment was conducted in February-June and May-August 2021, to determine the influence of nitrogen and spacing on growth and yield of Chia. A randomized complete block design with a split plot arrangement was used with four nitrogen rates as the main plots (0, 40, 80, 120 kg N ha-1) and three spacing (30 cm x 15 cm (s1), 30 cm x 30 cm (s2), 50 cm x 50 cm (s3)). Application of 120 kg N ha-1 significantly increased (p≤0.05) vegetative growth and seed yield of Chia. Stem height, branches, stem diameter and leaves increased by 23-28%, 11-13%, 43-55% and 59-88% respectively. Spacing s3 significantly increased (p≤0.05) vegetative growth. An increase of 27-74%, 36-45% and 73-107% was recorded in number of leaves, stem diameter and dry weight, respectively. Chia yield per plant was significantly higher (p≤0.05) in s3. However, when expressed per unit area, s1 significantly produced higher yields. The study recommends 120 kg N ha-1 or higher nitrogen rates and a closer spacing of 15 cm x 30 cm as the best option for Chia production in Kenya.
Enhancing Social Capital During the Pandemic: A Case of the Rural Women in Bu...Premier Publishers
Social capital plays an essential role in empowering people for social and economic change even during the pandemic. A livelihood project of the government was implemented among the members of a women’s association of a disadvantaged upland community in Bukidnon province, Southern Philippines for inclusive development. This study was conducted to determine the influence of some socio-economic attributes and the change in the knowledge level on the social capital of the rural women amidst the pandemic. The activities of the project were implemented considering the health protocols imposed by the government during the health crisis. The findings revealed that the trainings conducted resulted to a positive change in the knowledge level among the rural women. This facilitated the production of vegetables for their households and generated additional income very necessary during the pandemic especially that other economic activities were hindered. Similarly, there was a significant increase in the social capital of the rural women during the last two years. The main occupation, sources of income and their ethnicity significantly influenced the social capital of the rural women. The rural development workers and policymakers must consider the social capital of the group in the implementation of poverty alleviation programs.
Impact of Provision of Litigation Supports through Forensic Investigations on...Premier Publishers
This paper presents an argument through the fraud triangle theory that the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations in relation to corporate fraud cases is adequate for effective prosecution of perpetrators as well as corporate fraud prevention. To support this argument, this study operationalized provision of litigation supports through forensic audit and investigations, data mining for trends and patterns, and fraud data collection and preparation. A sample of 500 respondents was drawn from the population of professional accountants and legal practitioners in Nigeria. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection and this was mailed to the respective respondents. Resulting responses were analyzed using the OLS multiple regression techniques via the SPSS statistical software. The results reveal that the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations, fraud data mining for trends and patterns and fraud data collection and preparation for court proceedings have a positive and significant impact on corporate fraud prevention in Nigeria. This study therefore recommends that regulators should promote the provision of litigation supports through forensic audits and investigations in relation to corporate fraud cases in publicly listed firms in Nigeria, as this will help provide reports that are acceptable in court proceedings.
Improving the Efficiency of Ratio Estimators by Calibration WeightingsPremier Publishers
It is observed that the performances of most improved ratio estimators depend on some optimality conditions that need to be satisfied to guarantee better estimator. This paper develops a new approach to ratio estimation that produces a more efficient class of ratio estimators that do not depend on any optimality conditions for optimum performance using calibration weightings. The relative performances of the proposed calibration ratio estimators are compared with a corresponding global [Generalized Regression (GREG)] estimator. Results of analysis showed that the proposed calibration ratio estimators are substantially superior to the traditional GREG-estimator with relatively small bias, mean square error, average length of confidence interval and coverage probability. In general, the proposed calibration ratio estimators are more efficient than all existing estimators considered in the study.
Urban Liveability in the Context of Sustainable Development: A Perspective fr...Premier Publishers
Urbanization and quality of urban life are mutually related and however it varies geographically and regionally. With unprecedented growth of urban centres, challenge against urban development is more in terms of how to enhance quality of urban life and liveability. Making sense of and measuring urban liveability of urban places has become a crucial step in the context of sustainable development paradigm. Geographical regions depict variations in nature of urban development and consequently level of urban liveability. The coastal regain of West Bengal faces unusual challenges caused by increasing urbanization, uncontrolled growth, and expansion of economic activities like tourism and changing environmental quality. The present study offers a perspective on urban liveability of urban places located in coastal region comprising of Purba Medinipur and South 24 Parganas districts. The study uses the liveability standards covering four major pillars- institutional, social, economic and physical and their indicators. This leads to develop a City Liveability Index to rank urban places of the region, higher the index values better the urban liveability. The data for the purpose is collected from various secondary sources. Study finds that the eastern coastal region of the country covering state of West Bengal depicts variations in index of liveability determined by physical, economic, social and institutional indicators.
Transcript Level of Genes Involved in “Rebaudioside A” Biosynthesis Pathway u...Premier Publishers
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a plant which has recently been used widely as a sweetener. This medicinal plant has some components such as diterpenoid glycosides called steviol glycosides [SGs]. Rebaudioside A is a diterpenoid steviol glycoside which is 300 times sweeter than table sugar. This study was done to investigate the effect of GA3 (50 mg/L) on the expression of 14 genes involved in Rebaudioside A biosynthesis pathway in Stevia rebaudiana under in vitro conditions. The expression of DXS remarkably decreased by day 3. Also, probably because of the negative feedback of GA3 on MEP-drived isoprenes, GGDS transcript level reached its lowest amount after GA3 treatment. The abundance of DXR, CMS, CMK, MCS, and CDPS transcripts showed a significant increase at various days after this treatment. A significant drop in the expression levels of KS and UGT85C2 is detected during the first day. However, expression changes of HDR and KD were not remarkable. Results revealed that the level of transcript of UGT74G1 and UGT76G1 up regulated significantly 4 and 2 times higher than control, respectively. However, more research needs to shed more light on the mechanism of GA3 on gene expression of MEP pathway.
Multivariate Analysis of Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) Clones on Mor...Premier Publishers
Information on genetic variability for biochemical characters is a prerequisite for improvement of tea quality. Thirteen introduced tea clones characterized with objective; assessing tea clones based on morphological characters at Melko and Gera research stations. The study was conducted during 2017/18 cropping season on experimental plots in RCBD with three replications. Data recorded on morphological traits like days from pruning to harvest, height to first branch, stem diameter, leaf serration density, leaf length, leaf width, leaf size, petiole length, leaf ratio, internode length, shoot length, number of shoot, canopy diameter, hundred shoot weight, fresh leaf yield per tree. Cluster analysis of morphological trait grouped into four clusters indicated, the existence of divergence among the tested clones. The maximum inter-cluster distance was between clusters I and IV (35.27) while the minimum inter cluster distance was observed between clusters I and II (7.8).Principal components analysis showed that the first five principal components with eigenvalues greater than one accounted 86.45% for 15 morphological traits. Generally, the study indicated presence of variability for several morphological traits. However, high morphological variation between clones is not a guarantee for a high genetic variation; therefore, molecular studies need to be considered as complementary to biochemical studies.
Causes, Consequences and Remedies of Juvenile Delinquency in the Context of S...Premier Publishers
This research work was designed to examine nature of juvenile offences committed by juveniles, causes of juvenile delinquency, consequences of juvenile delinquency and remedies for juvenile delinquency in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa with specific reference to Eritrea. Left unchecked, juvenile delinquents on the streets engage in petty theft, take alcohol or drugs, rape women, rob people at night involve themselves in criminal gangs and threaten the public at night. To shed light on the problem of juvenile delinquency in the Sub-Saharan region data was collected through primary and secondary sources. A sample size of 70 juvenile delinquents was selected from among 112 juvenile delinquents in remand at the Asmara Juvenile Rehabilitation Center in the Eritrean capital. The study was carried out through coded self-administered questionnaires administered to a sample of 70 juvenile delinquents. The survey evidence indicates that the majority of the juvenile respondents come either from families constructed by unmarried couples or separated or divorced parents where largely the father is missing in the home or dead. The findings also indicate that children born out of wedlock, families led by single mothers, lack of fatherly role models, poor parental-child relationships and negative peer group influence as dominant causes of juvenile infractions. The implication is that broken and stressed families are highly likely to be the breeding grounds for juvenile delinquency. The survey evidence indicates that stealing, truancy or absenteeism from school, rowdy or unruly behavior at school, free-riding in public transportation, damaging the book of fellow students and beating other young persons are the most common forms of juvenile offenses. It is therefore, recommended that parents and guardians should exercise proper parental supervision and give adequate care to transmit positive societal values to children. In addition, the government, the police, prosecution and courts, non-government organizations, parents, teachers, religious leaders, education administrators and other stakeholders should develop a child justice system that strives to prevent children from entering deeper into the criminal justice process.
The Knowledge of and Attitude to and Beliefs about Causes and Treatments of M...Premier Publishers
Stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness are a common occurrence in the Sub-Saharan region including Eritrea. Numerous studies from Sub-Saharan Africa suggest that stigma and discrimination are major problems in the community, with negative attitudes and behavior towards people with mental illness being widespread. In order to assess the whether such negative attitudes persist in the context of Eritrea this study explored the knowledge and perceptions of 90 Eritrean university students at the College of Business and Economics, the University of Asmara regarding the causes and remedies of mental illness A qualitative method involving coded self-administered questionnaires administered to a sample of 90 university students to collecting data at the end of 2019. The survey evidence points that almost 50% of the respondents had contact with a mentally ill person suggesting that the significant number of the respondents experienced a first-hand encounter and knowledge of mental illness in their family and community. The findings show an overall greater science-based understanding of the causes of mental illness to be followed by recommended psychiatric treatments. The survey evidence indicates that the top three leading causes of mental illness in the context of Eritrea according to the respondents are brain disease (76%), bad events in the life of the mentally ill person (66%) and substance abuse or alcohol taking, smoking, taking drugs like hashish. (54%). The majority of the respondents have a very sympathetic and positive outlook towards mentally ill persons suggesting that mentally illness does not simply affect a chosen individual rather it can happen to anybody regardless of economic class, social status, ethnicity race and religion. Medical interventions cited by the majority of the respondents as being effective treatments for mental illness centered on the idea that hospitals and clinics for treatment and even cures for psychiatric disease. Changing perceptions of mental illnesses in Eritrea that paralleled the very caring and sympathetic attitudes of the sample university students would require raising public awareness regarding mental illness through education, using the mass media to raise public awareness, integrating mental health into the primary health care system, decentralizing mental health care services to increase access to treatment and providing affordable service to maintain positive treatment outcomes.
Effect of Phosphorus and Zinc on the Growth, Nodulation and Yield of Soybean ...Premier Publishers
An investigation was carried out at Kogi State University Student Research and Demonstration farm Anyigba during the 2019 wet season to observe the effect of phosphorus and zinc on the growth, nodulation and yield of soybean. The treatments comprised three levels: phosphorus and zinc (0, 30 and 60 kg P2O5/ha; 0, 5 and 10kg Zn/ha) and two varieties TGX 536 – 02D and Samsoy 2. The investigation revealed that application of phosphorus affected growth, nodulation, yield and some yield components of soybean while zinc application, apart from the plant height, which is reduced significantly, had no significant effect on other growth characters, nodulation, yield and yield components. However, it was generally found to decrease most of the characters. Application of 60 kg P2O5/ha gave the highest growth and yield, while 30 kg P2O5/ha gave the highest nodulation. Application of 60 kg P2O5/ha significantly increased yield to 1.9t/ha, which was significantly higher over the control plots, which gave 1.7t/ha. Crude protein and oil contents of the seeds were not significantly affected by phosphorus application but were significantly affected by zinc application, which significantly decreased protein content as its amount an increase from 0 to 10 kg/ha, and significantly increased oil content from 0 to 5kg/ha and decreased it below 5kg/ha. It was also revealed that the two varieties responded similarly to phosphorus and zinc in terms of growth, grain yield and crude protein content of the seeds.
Influence of Harvest Stage on Yield and Yield Components of Orange Fleshed Sw...Premier Publishers
A field experiment was conducted at Adami Tullu Agricultural Research Center in 2018 under rainfed condition with supplementary irrigation to determine the influence of harvest stage on vine yield and tuberous root yield of orange fleshed sweet potato varieties. The experiment consisted of four harvest stages (105, 120, 135 and 150 days after planting) and Kulfo, Tulla and Guntute varieties. A 4 X 3 factorial experiment arranged in randomized complete block design with three replications was used. Interaction of harvest stage and variety significantly influenced above ground fresh biomass, vine length, marketable tuberous root weight per hectare, commercial harvest index and harvest index. The highest mean values of above ground fresh biomass (66.12 t/ha) and marketable tuberous root weight (56.39 t/ha) were produced by Guntute variety harvested at 135 days after planting. Based on the results, it can be recommended that, farmers of the study area can grow Guntute variety by harvesting at 135 days after planting to obtain optimum vine and tuberous root yields.
Performance evaluation of upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) and variability study...Premier Publishers
This study aimed at assessing genetic variability and to evaluate the performance of 13 improved upland rice varieties for yield and its components based on morphological traits. The field experiment was conducted using a randomized block design at Guraferda and Gimbo districts in the 2019 main cropping season. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) over the two locations revealed significant differences (p≤ 0.05) among varieties for days to 50% heading, days to 85% maturity, panicle length, thousand-grain weight, and grain yield. Similarly, the ANOVA for variety by location interactions depicted significant differences among the tested varieties for days to 50% heading, days to 85% maturity, and thousand-grain weight. High heritability was obtained from days to heading (88.5%), panicle length (85.0%), and grain yield (85.2%), which indicates these traits can be easily improved through selection. High to medium broad sense heritability and genetic advance as percentage of the mean for days to heading, thousand-grain weight, and grain yield indicates a good opportunity for improvement through selection using their phenotypic performance. This is mainly due to the high role of additive gene action in the expression of such traits. This study confirmed the presence of variability among varieties for most of the studied traits, which will create an opportunity for breeders to improve rice yield and other attributes.
Response of Hot Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.) to Deficit Irrigation in Bennatse...Premier Publishers
This study was conducted at Enchete kebele in Benna-Tsemay Woreda, South Omo Zone to evaluate the response of hot pepper to deficit irrigation on yield and water productivity under furrow irrigation system. The experiment comprised four treatments (100 % of ETc, 85% of ETc, 70 % of ETc and 50% of ETc), respectively. The experiment was laid out in RCBD and replicated four times. The two years combined yield results indicated that, the maximum total yield (20.38 t/ha) was obtained from 100% ETc while minimum yield (12.92 t/ha) was obtained from 50% of ETc deficit irrigation level. The highest WUE 5.22 kg/ha mm-1 was obtained from 50% of ETc. Treatment of 100% ETc irrigation application had highest benefit cost ratio (4.5) than all others treatments. Applying 50% of ETc reduce the yield by 37% when compared to 100 % ETc. Accordingly, to achieve maximum hot pepper yield in areas where water is not scarce, applying 100% ETc irrigation water application level throughout whole growing season under furrow irrigation system is recommended. But, in the study area water scarcity is the major limiting factor for crop production. So, it is possible to get better yield and water productivity of hot pepper when we apply 85% ETc irrigation water throughout growing season under furrow irrigation system.
Harnessing the Power of Agricultural Waste: A Study of Sabo Market, Ikorodu, ...Premier Publishers
Nigeria is still burdened with huge responsibilities of waste disposal because the potential for benefits of proper waste management is yet to be harnessed. The paper evaluates the capacity of the Sabo Cattle market in producing the required quantities of waste from animal dung alongside decomposed fruits with a view to generating renewable energy possibilities for lighting, security and other business activities of the market. It is estimated that about 998 million tons of agricultural waste is produced yearly in the country with organic wastes amounting to 80 percent of the total solid wastes. This can be categorized into biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. The paper evaluates the capacity of the Sabo Cattle market in producing the required quantities of waste from animal dung alongside decomposed fruits with a view to generating renewable energy possibilities for lighting, security and other business activities of the market. The Sabo market was treated as a study case with the adoption of in-depth examinations of the facility, animals and products for sale and waste generated. A combination of experimental, interviews (qualitative) and design simulation (for final phase) was adopted to extract, verify and analyse the data generated from the study. Animal waste samples were subjected to compositional and fibre analysis with results showing that the sample has high potency for biogas production. Biodegradable Wastes are human and animal excreta, agricultural and all degradable wastes. Availability of high quantity of waste generated being organic in Sabo market allows the use of anaerobic digestion to be proposed as a waste to energy technology due to its feasibility for conversion of moist biodegradable wastes into biogas. The study found that at peak supply period during the Islamic festivities, a conservative 300tonnes of animal waste is generated during the week which translates to over 800kilowatts of electricity.
Influence of Conferences and Job Rotation on Job Productivity of Library Staf...Premier Publishers
The general purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of conferences and job rotation on job productivity of library staff in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria. The survey research design was used for this study using questionnaire as an instrument for data collection. This study covered the entire population of 661. Out of these, 501 copies of the questionnaire representing 75.8% were duly completed and returned for analysis. Student’s t-test was used to analyze the research questions. The finding showed that conferences had no significant influence on the job productivity of library staff in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria (F cal= 7.86; t-vale =6.177; p >0.005). Finding also showed that job rotation significantly influences job productivity of library staff in tertiary institutions in Imo State, Nigeria (F-cal value= 18.65; t-value = 16.225; P<0.05). This study recommended that, government should ensure that library staff participate in conferences with themes and topics that are relevant to the job they perform and also ensure that there should be proper evaluation and feedback mechanism which aimed to ensuring control and minimize abuse of their development opportunities. Again, there should be written statement of objectives in order to sustain job rotation programmes. Also, that training and development needs of library staff must be identified and analyzed before embarking on job rotation processes as this would help to build skills, competences, specialization and high job productivity.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Structure and Composition of Urinary Calculi of...Premier Publishers
Microscopic examination of urine samples collected from geriatric dogs revealed increased numbers of erythrocytes, leucocytes, epithelial cells and pus cells along with casts, bacteria, spermatozoa and crystals of various shapes. Among the different crystals, triple phosphate or struvite were predominant, followed by calcium oxalate dihydrate, calcium oxalate monohydrate and ammonium urate or biurate. The struvite crystals were, coffin-lid shape and while calcium oxalate dihydrate were octahedron or envelope and monohydrate crystals demonstrated “picket fence” and “dumbbell” and “hemp seed” appearance. Brown or yellow-brown spherical bodies with irregular borders with thorn-apple appearance were shown by ammonium urate or biurate crystals. SEM aspects of magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals revealed perpendicular columnar strata, few with scattered hexa or octa-hedral coffin-lid shaped crystals and calcium phosphate crystals were like cracked eggshells. Presence of wavy phases with sundry areas (uric acid), picket fence (calcium oxalate monohydrate) and typical envelope (calcium oxalate dehydrate) were electron microscopic appearance of various crystals.
Gentrification and its Effects on Minority Communities – A Comparative Case S...Premier Publishers
This paper does a comparative analysis of four global cities and their minority districts which have been experiencing the same structural pressure of gentrification. The main contribution of this paper is providing a detailed comparison of four micro geographies worldwide and the impacts of gentrification on them: Barrio Logan in San Diego, Bo-Kaap in Cape Town, the Mission District in San Francisco, and the Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus District in Vienna. All four cities have been experiencing the displacement of minority communities due to increases in property values. These cities were chosen because their governments enacted different policies to temper the gentrification process. It was found that cities which implemented social housing and cultural inclusionary policies were more successful in maintaining the cultural and demographic make-up of the districts.
Oil and Fatty Acid Composition Analysis of Ethiopian Mustard (Brasicacarinata...Premier Publishers
The experiments was conducted at Holetta Agricultural Research Center, to analyze forty nine Ethiopian Mustard land races for oil and fatty acid composition traits The experiment was carried out in a simple lattice design. The analysis of variance showed that there were highly significant differences among genotypes for all oil and fatty acid traits compared. The significant difference indicates the existence of genetic variability among the land races which is important for improvement
Model Attribute Check Company Auto PropertyCeline George
In Odoo, the multi-company feature allows you to manage multiple companies within a single Odoo database instance. Each company can have its own configurations while still sharing common resources such as products, customers, and suppliers.
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
How to Make a Field invisible in Odoo 17Celine George
It is possible to hide or invisible some fields in odoo. Commonly using “invisible” attribute in the field definition to invisible the fields. This slide will show how to make a field invisible in odoo 17.
Acetabularia Information For Class 9 .docxvaibhavrinwa19
Acetabularia acetabulum is a single-celled green alga that in its vegetative state is morphologically differentiated into a basal rhizoid and an axially elongated stalk, which bears whorls of branching hairs. The single diploid nucleus resides in the rhizoid.
Normal Labour/ Stages of Labour/ Mechanism of LabourWasim Ak
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Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
June 3, 2024 Anti-Semitism Letter Sent to MIT President Kornbluth and MIT Cor...Levi Shapiro
Letter from the Congress of the United States regarding Anti-Semitism sent June 3rd to MIT President Sally Kornbluth, MIT Corp Chair, Mark Gorenberg
Dear Dr. Kornbluth and Mr. Gorenberg,
The US House of Representatives is deeply concerned by ongoing and pervasive acts of antisemitic
harassment and intimidation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Failing to act decisively to ensure a safe learning environment for all students would be a grave dereliction of your responsibilities as President of MIT and Chair of the MIT Corporation.
This Congress will not stand idly by and allow an environment hostile to Jewish students to persist. The House believes that your institution is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and the inability or
unwillingness to rectify this violation through action requires accountability.
Postsecondary education is a unique opportunity for students to learn and have their ideas and beliefs challenged. However, universities receiving hundreds of millions of federal funds annually have denied
students that opportunity and have been hijacked to become venues for the promotion of terrorism, antisemitic harassment and intimidation, unlawful encampments, and in some cases, assaults and riots.
The House of Representatives will not countenance the use of federal funds to indoctrinate students into hateful, antisemitic, anti-American supporters of terrorism. Investigations into campus antisemitism by the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means have been expanded into a Congress-wide probe across all relevant jurisdictions to address this national crisis. The undersigned Committees will conduct oversight into the use of federal funds at MIT and its learning environment under authorities granted to each Committee.
• The Committee on Education and the Workforce has been investigating your institution since December 7, 2023. The Committee has broad jurisdiction over postsecondary education, including its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, campus safety concerns over disruptions to the learning environment, and the awarding of federal student aid under the Higher Education Act.
• The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is investigating the sources of funding and other support flowing to groups espousing pro-Hamas propaganda and engaged in antisemitic harassment and intimidation of students. The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is the principal oversight committee of the US House of Representatives and has broad authority to investigate “any matter” at “any time” under House Rule X.
• The Committee on Ways and Means has been investigating several universities since November 15, 2023, when the Committee held a hearing entitled From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing. The Committee followed the hearing with letters to those institutions on January 10, 202
2. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Lassa Fever in and Around Lafia, Central Nigeria
Reuben and Gyar 014
Although the multimammate rat, Mastomysnatalensis is
widely regarded as the reservoir of infection (Monath et
al, 1974), M. erythroleucus and M. hildbrandtii have also
been proposed to be reservoirs (Anyanwu and
Nwaopara, 2005; CDC, 2004). It is an epidemic prone
disease. The significance of Lassa fever as an epidemic-
prone disease is indicated by an alert threshold of a
single suspected case and an epidemic threshold of a
single confirmed case (FMOH, Nigeria, 2005; 2009).
LF is an emerging disease with devastating and life
threatening potentials. According to WHO statistics, an
estimated 300 000-500 000 cases and 5000 death occurs
each year worldwide. The case-fatality rate as estimated
by WHO is 1% 15% among hospitalized patients within
14 days of onset in fatal cases (WHO, 2005). The
prevalence of antibodies to the virus in the population is
8-52% in Sierra Leone, 6.4-55% in Guinea, and 7-21% in
Nigeria (Richmond and Baglole, 2004). There have been
reported cases of suspected Lassa fever in Nasarawa,
Edo, Ondo, Gombe, Taraba, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Anambra,
Yobe, Rivers and Plateau States of Nigeria (Ogbu et al,
2007; NCDC, 2012; 2014).
Despite the epidemic and highly contagious nature of LF
in Nigeria and other African countries, the details of
outbreaks and subsequent responses to contain it have
not been well documented in these places, and it is
difficult to learn from these experiences to improve the
management of future outbreaks (Ajayi et al., 2013).
Available Nigerian reports have focused mainly on a
nosocomial outbreaks that occurred almost two decades
ago (Fisher-Hoch et al., 1995), or more recently on
laboratory diagnosis of blood samples of suspected
cases sent to a national reference laboratory (Omilabu et
al., 2005; Ehichioya et al., 2010).This study therefore set
out to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of
LFamong individuals in and around Lafia, central Nigeria
and to identify the risk factors associated with LF and the
level of preparedness to LF epidemic.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study Area and Population
The study was carried out in Lafia, the capital of
Nasarawa State located in North central geopolitical zone
of Nigeria. Lafia is densely populated with 330,712
inhabitants (Census, 2006). It is located on latitude 8
o
28’N and longitude 8
o
31’E (Hogben et al., 2013), a
sizable area characterized by poor drainage and
sanitation with garbage dumps in close proximity to
residential buildings. These serve as favourable
environments for the breeding of animal reservoir
(multimammate rat) of LF.
Sample Size and its determination: The sample size
was determined using the formula described by
Thrusfield, (1995), using a community awareness
prevalence of 17.2% (Olayinka et al., 2015), 200
respondents were enrolled for this study.
Study Design and Data collection
The study was designed to be a cross-sectional
descriptive study. Self-administered semi-structured
questionnaires were used for data collection from
consenting respondents. The questionnaires captured
information on sociodemographic variables, knowledge,
attitudes and practices regarding Lassa fever.
Ethical Consideration
Informed consent was obtained from the respondents.
They were made to understand that participation is
voluntary and there was no consequence for non-
participation. All information obtained was kept
confidential.
Data Analysis
Information collected from the respondents were entered
and analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences
version (SPSS) 15 software. Descriptive statistics were
done and frequencies and proportions were used to
summarize variables of interest.
RESULTS
Table 1 shows the profiles of the respondents from the
urban (155) and sub-urban (45) areas. Among the 200
respondents, 109 were male and 91 were females.
Majority of the respondents’ age groups included in the
range of 21 – 25 and 16 – 20 years and 66.5% of the
respondents have attended higher education. Most of the
respondents are singles (70.5%), Christians (78.5%) and
are involved in other forms of occupation (56%).
Table 2 shows the Knowledge of the Respondents on
Lassa fever. Most (87%) were aware of the disease.
Majority of the respondents (41.5% and 50%) described
virus as the cause of the disease and rats only as the
species affected while 47% indicated that contact with the
urine of rats only is the mode of transmitting LF. Among
the 200 respondents, 71.5% were aware that rats only
are the animal species affected and 39% claimed that
bleeding manifestations was the obvious clinical
manifestation of LF.
As indicated in table 3, 166 (83%) of the respondents
indicated the presence of rats/rodents in and around their
residence. Some respondents; 57.5%, 24% and 28%
believed that rodents have contact with their foods, they
feed on rodents contaminated foods and they come in
contact with urines, faeces e.t.c of rodents respectively.
Although 33% of the respondents feed on rodents, 85%
do not believe that Lassa fever virus exists. Majority
3. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Lassa Fever in and Around Lafia, Central Nigeria
Int. J. Pub. Health Epidemiol. Res. 015
Table 1. Sociodemographic Characteristics of Respondents
Number and Percentage of Respondents
Characteristic of Respondents Total(%) Urban(%) Sub-urban(%)
n = 200 n= 155 n= 45
Sex
Male 109 (54.5) 85 (54.8) 24 (53.3)
Female 91 (45.5) 70 (45.2) 21 (46.7)
Age group
<15 10 (5.0) 6 (3.9) 4 (8.9)
16-20 59 (29.5) 52 (33.5) 7 (15.6)
21-25 63 (31.5) 46 (29.7) 17 (37.8)
26-30 35 (17.5) 26 (16.8) 9 (20.0)
30> 33 (16.5) 25 (16.1) 8 (17.8)
Level of Education
Cannot read and write ` 5 (2.5) 2 (1.3) 3 (6.7)
Informal (read and write only) 15 (7.5) 6 (3.9) 9 (20.0)
Primary school 15 (7.5) 7 (4.5) 8 (17.8)
Secondary school 32 (16.0) 18 (11.6) 14(31.1)
Higher education 133 (66.5) 122 (78.7) 11 (24.4)
Occupation
Health profession 26 (13.0) 22 (14.2) 4 (8.9)
Farmer 16 (8.0) 10 (6.5) 6 (13.3)
Merchant 7 (3.5) 6 (3.9) 1 (2.2)
House wife 16 (8.0) 11 (7.1) 5 (11.1)
Jobless 23 (11.5) 15 (9.7) 8 (17.8)
Others 112 (56.0) 91 (58.7) 21 (46.7)
Marital status
Single 141 (70.5) 109 (70.3) 32 (71.1)
Married 54 (27.0) 43 (27.7) 11 (24.4)
Divorced 2 (1.0) 1 (0.6) 1(2.2)
Widow 3 (1.5) 2 (1.3) 1 (2.2)
Religion
Christian 157 (78.5) 125 (80.6) 32 (71.1)
Muslim 38 (19.0) 26 (16.8) 12 (26.7)
Pagan 5 (2.5) 4(2.6) 1 (2.2)
(57%) do not have knowledge of any survival of LF and
43.5%) believed that age group 26-30 years are the most
vulnerable group at risk of the disease. With regards to
attitudes towards people suspected to be infected with
LF, 41% of the respondents indicated that they will show
some discriminatory attitude towards people suspected/
having Lassa fever. Most of the respondents (71%)
agree that if a person has been diagnosed with LF,
he/she must be admitted in Lassa fever treatment centre
while 67% accept to take an approved vaccine that could
prevent LF.
DISCUSSION
The result of the current study has revealed the
importance of LF in the study area. The questionnaire
survey on public awareness indicated that 87% of the
respondents had heard about Lassa fever from different
sources, with 89% and 80% from urban and sub-urban
areas respectively. This finding was in agreement with
the report (82.2%) from Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria by
Olayinka et al. (2015). However, Ochei et al. (2014)
reported a higher proportion (93.1%) in Irrua (an endemic
area) among households in Edo State, Nigeria.
Nevertheless, in Edo State 95% of studied health workers
were aware of LF (Tobin et al., 2013). The apparently
higher levels of knowledge in this study may be due to
the greater attention given to the disease, both by the
government and the press, especially during the recent
outbreak in 2014. Nevertheless, LF in Nasarawa State
and Nigeria is yet to gain the political attention it deserves
by all tiers of government. Respondents from the urban
area were more aware (89%) of LF than those from the
sub-urban (80%). This may be attributed to the easy and
constant access to health information by the urban
dwellers from different sources. More so, they are more
enlightened and have direct access to health care
facilities.
Among the respondents, 19 (9.5%) and 63 (31.5%) had
misunderstanding on the cause of LF, attributing it to
bacteria and animals while 35 (17.5%) do not have
4. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Lassa Fever in and Around Lafia, Central Nigeria
Reuben and Gyar 016
Table 2. Knowledge of the Respondents on Lassa fever
Number and Percentage of Respondents
Parameter Total(%) Urban(%) Sub-urban(%)
n = 200 n= 155 n= 45
Awareness about Lassa fever
Yes 174 (87.0) 138(89.0) 36 (80.0)
No 26 (13.0) 17 (11.0) 9 (20.0)
Cause of Lassa fever
Virus 83 (41.5) 61 (39.4) 22 (48.9)
Bacterium 19 (9.5) 16 (10.3) 3 (6.7)
Animal 63 (31.5) 54 (34.8) 9 (20.0)
I don’t know 35 (17.5) 24 (15.5) 11 (24.4)
Species affected by Lassa fever virus
Rats only 100 (50.0) 77 (49.7) 23 (51.1)
Rats and human 15 (7.5) 11 (7.1) 4 (8.9)
Human and other animals 85 (42.5) 67 (43.2) 18 (40.0)
Means of transmission
Contact with the urine of rats only 94 (47.0) 70 (45.2) 24 (53.3)
Contact with faeces of rats only 6 (3.0) 5 (3.2) 1 (2.2)
Eating bush meat 39 (19.5) 28 (18.1) 11 (24.4)
Exposure to open cuts or sores 7 (3.5) 6 (3.9) 1 (2.2)
Other fluids from an infected person 54 (27.0) 46 (29.7) 8 (17.8)
Animal species that transmit Lassa fever virus to human
Rabbits only 10 (5.0) 21 (13.5) 4 (8.9)
Rats only 143 (71.5) 96 (61.9) 32 (71.1)
Rats and squirrels 33 (16.5) 26 (16.8) 7 (15.6)
Other animals 14 (7.0) 12 (7.7) 2 (4.4)
Signs and symptoms of Lassa fever
Sore throat 28 (14.0) 21 (13.5) 7 (15.6)
Restrosternal pain and cough 33 (16.5) 26 (16.8) 7 (15.6)
Bleeding manifestations 78 (39.0) 58 (37.4) 20 (44.4)
Nausea and vomiting 52 (26.0) 42 (27.1) 10 (22.2)
Gastrointestinal manifestation 9 (4.5) 8 (5.2) 1 (2.2)
knowledge of the cause of LF. Also, the respondents
believed that rats are the only species affected by the
disease, the misunderstanding are higher in sub-urban
area. With regards to transmission, most of the
respondents (47%) and (27%) believed that contact with
the urine of rats alone and other fluids from infected
persons are the modes of transmission of LF.
According to the current findings, the respondents have
good knowledge of the signs and symptoms of LF from
both the urban and from sub-urban areas. Sore throat,
restrosternal pain and cough, bleeding manifestation,
nausea and vomiting and gastrointestinal manifestations
were pointed out by 14%, 16.5%, 39%, 26% and 4.5%) of
the respondents respectively. This is similar to the
findings of Tobin et al. (2013) and Olayinka et al. (2015).
Majority (83%) of the respondents; 82.6% and 84.4%
from urban and sub-urban areas indicated the presence
of rats and other rodents in and around their residence.
Some of the respondents 24%, 28% and 33% feed on
food contaminated by rodents, come in contact with
urine/faeces/other products of rodents and consume
rodents. Although rodent consumption is quite common in
the study area as a form of delicacy, was recognized as a
risk factor for the transmission of LF. It is possible that
though the respondents were aware that the
multimammate rats (Mastomysnatalensis) are the vector
for the transmission of LF, they might find it difficult to
stop the consumption because it is considered as a
cheap source of meat. A study in Republic of Guinea
have shown that rodent infestation was much higher,
food was more often stored uncovered and most
strikingly, peridomestic rodents were hunted as a protein
source by 91.5% of the population (TerMeulen et al.,
1996). Furthermore, most of the respondents (85%) do
not believed in the existence of LF virus, that is why most
of them feed on rodents and foods contaminated by
rodents without caution. Bonner et al. (2007) stated that
the poorer state of houses increase risk for rodents
infestation and for transmission of Lassa virus in the
houses’ immediate surroundings. Also, the use of houses
for both residential and commercial purposes also had
increased risk for transmission of LF disease (Ochei et
al., 2014). Findings by Olayinka et al. (2015), stated that
good housing standard and clean environment are
recognized as part of the methods of preventing and
controlling the spread of LF; this is an effective method to
5. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Lassa Fever in and Around Lafia, Central Nigeria
Int. J. Pub. Health Epidemiol. Res. 017
Table 3. Attitudes and Practices of Respondents
Number and Percentage of Respondents
Parameter Total(%) Urban(%) Sub-urban(%)
n = 200 n= 155 n= 45
Are there rats or Rodents in/around your house?
Yes 166 (83.0) 128 (82.6) 38 (84.4)
No 34 (17.0) 27 (17.4) 7 (15.6)
Do rodents have contact with your foods?
Yes 115 (57.5) 90 (58.1) 25 (55.6)
No 85 (42.5) 65 (41.9) 20 (44.4)
Do you feed on rodents contaminated foods?
Yes 48 (24.0) 34 (21.9) 14 (31.1)
No 152 (76.0) 121 (78.1) 31 (68.9)
Do you have contact with urines, faeces e.t.c of rodents?
Yes 56 (28.0) 45 (29.0) 11 (24.4)
No 144 (72.0) 110 (71.0) 34 (75.6)
Do you eat rodents?
Yes 66 (33.0) 52 (33.5) 14 (31.1)
No 134 (67.0) 103 (66.5) 31 (68.9)
Do you believe Lassa fever virus exists?
Yes 170 (85.0) 130(83.9) 40 (88.9)
No 30 (15.0) 25 (16.1) 5 (11.1)
Have you heard of people that have survived Lassa fever?
Yes 86 (43.0) 67 (43.2) 19 (42.2)
No 114 (57.0) 88 (56.8) 26 (57.8)
Age group at risk
<15 17 (8.5) 15 (9.7) 2 (4.4)
16-20 56 (28.0) 45 (29.0) 11 (24.4)
21-25 24 (12.0) 21 (13.5) 3 (6.7)
26-30 87 (43.5) 61 (39.4) 26 (57.8)
31> 16 (8.0) 13 (8.4) 3 (6.7)
Attitudes towards people suspected to be infected with Lassa fever
Would keep the
Information secret if a 71 (35.5) 59 (38.1) 12 (26.7)
Family member contact
Lassa Fever .
Would not buy from a shopkeeper 47 (23.5) 35 (22.6) 12 (26.7)
who had contacted Lassa Fever.
Would show some discriminatory
attitude towards people 82 (41) 61 (39.4) 21 (46.7)
suspected or having lassa Fever
Attitudes towards treatment options of people infected/suspected with Lassa fever
Agree that if a person has been
diagnosed with Lassa Fever 142 (71) 105 (67.7) 37 (82.2)
he/she must be admitted in Lassa
fever treatment centre.
Agree that people who have direct
contact with a person who has been 58 (29) 50 (32.3) 8 (17.8)
diagnosed with Lassa fever must be
quarantined for some weeks
Attitudes towards vaccines against Lassa fever
Accept to take an approved
vaccine that could prevent 134 (67.0) 106 (68.4) 28 (62.2)
Lassa fever.
Accept to give an approved
vaccine to my children that 66 (33.0) 49 (31.6) 17 (37.8)
could prevent Lassa fever.
control the vector. Similar studies conducted in Sierra
Leone have shown that there is a significant relationship
between poor housing quality and external hygiene and
rodent burrows (Kelly et al., 2003; Moses et al., 2009).
6. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Lassa Fever in and Around Lafia, Central Nigeria
Reuben and Gyar 018
With regards to attitudes of the respondents towards
people suspected to be infected with LF, 41% of the
respondents would show some discriminatory attitudes
towards such individuals whereas 35.5% will keep the
information secret if a family member is suspected to be
infected with LF. Whereas 71% agreed that individuals
diagnosed with LF must be admitted in LF treatment
centre, 29% agreed that those tested positive for LF must
be quarantined for some weeks. Attitudes of the
respondents towards vaccination against LF showed that
67% will accept to take vaccine against LF whereas 33%
will accept to give such vaccines to their children/wards
as a preventive measure against the disease.
Respondents were generally ignorant of the nonexistence
of a vaccine for the disease as noted in a study by Tobin
et al. (2013). The absence of a vaccine calls for higher
attention to prevention of infection particularly among
vulnerable individuals in the study area and other
endemic regions.
The high virulence, significant mortality and morbidity and
non-specific mode of presentation of LF has made it to
become a disease of public health significance not just at
the community level but also at the international/global
level. It is therefore important that campaigns and
counselling should be carried out to create awareness
about the disease.
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