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Adequate knowledge of public attitudes towards green infrastructure (GI) is very important for effective planning, implementation, and management of urban greening programmes. Despite this, there is limited research on how the urban population evaluates GI leading to poor development and implementation of urban green infrastructure (UGI) programmes in sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigated public attitude towards GI in urban centres of Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey involving 513 participants was done in the study area, and the data were subjected to descriptive and categorical regression analyses. The survey shows that the frequency of public contact with GI varies and the primary reasons for contacting GI for 37.4%, and 20.7% of the respondents were to enjoy nature, fresh air, and relaxation, respectively. A positive attitude towards the value, knowledge, willingness to pay for GI, engagement in advocacy, and participation in learning, planning, managing, and protecting GI was reported among the respondents. The regression model produced R2 = 0.481 with the respondents' marital status, age, frequency, and reasons for having contact with GI and level of education, length of stay in the location, and preferred forms of GI having the most significant influence on their attitude towards GI. One key lesson from this study for urban planners and managers in sub-Saharan Africa is that to understand public attitudes towards effective policy-making and successful planning and implementation of UGI programmes, and maximising their benefits, greater attention should be given to the factors identified in this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nigeria is an epicenter for Lassa fever. Ebonyi state is located in the South-Eastern region of Nigeria where a high burden of Lassa fever has been reported. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the epidemiology of Lassa fever, its seasonality, trend, and mortality predictors in Ebonyi state, South-East, Nigeria. Method: We analyzed data extracted from Ebonyi State Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system over five years (2018–2022). A total of 1578 reported Lassa fever cases were captured in the IDSR out of which 300 were laboratory-confirmed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, additive time series model, quadratic equation, and logistic regression model (α0.05). Spatial distribution of reported Lassa fever cases was conducted using Arc G.I.S. Results: The mean age of the individuals with the reported cases of Lassa fever was 29.4 ± 17.8 years. Lassa fever showed a seasonal trend across the years. The quadratic model provided the best fit for predicting Lassa fever cumulative cases (R2 = 98.4%, P-value < 0.05). Projected cases of Lassa fever for the year 2023 were 123 in the 1st quarter, 23 in the 2nd quarter, 42 in the 3rd quarter, and 17 in the 4th quarter. The seasonality index was + 70.76, -28.42, -9.09, and -33.2 in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarters respectively. The reported cases of Lassa fever followed a declining trend (slope = -0.1363). Farmers were 70% less likely to die from Lassa fever compared to those not working (aOR:0.3, CI: 0.17–0.83). The hot spots for Lassa fever were Abakaliki and Ezza Local Government Areas. Conclusion: Although the reported Lassa fever cases followed a declining trend in Ebonyi state, there was a seasonality in the disease pattern. Being a farmer was protective against the risk of dying from Lassa fever. While efforts to eliminate and mitigate the spread of the disease in Ebonyi state should be strengthened, more attention should target the peak period of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted on the species diversity of ectoparasites of cattle, sheep, and goats in the Northern and Central zones of Ebonyi State, Southeastern Nigeria. A total of 710 livestock (280 cattle, 200 sheep, and 230 goats) were examined in the two zones using standard entomological methods and a half-body tick count technique to determine the whole-body tick burden. The results showed that out of 440 animals in Ebonyi, 336 (76.3%) were infected, and out of 270 animals in Ebonyi Central, 234 (86.6%) were infected. The Ectoparasite infestation showed that 170 (85.0%) white Fulani cattle, 63 (31.5%) sheep, and 103 goats (51.5 %) were infested with different species of ectoparasites. A total of 709 visible individual ectoparasites were collected from the northern Ebonyi area. Hyalomma dromedarii 188 (26.5%) had the highest number of counts, whereas, in Ebonyi central, 171 ticks were collected from local breed cattle. Ambylomma variegatum 59 (34.5%) had the highest number of counts. Rhipicephalus appendiculatum had the highest diversity (1.60) in Ebonyi North, whereas Ambylomma variegatum and Ambylomma hebraeum shared similar diversity (1.37) in Ebonyi Central. The results obtained from this study helped in determining the ectoparasite species abundance in this area and were added to the entomological database which will help in the control of ectoparasites and tick-borne diseases of livestock in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In classical literatures, the informal sector is regarded as all those economic activities that are neither taxed nor monitored by any form of government. However, with the downturn of economic activities in Nigeria due to the dwindling oil revenue which forms the major revenue generation and export earnings of Nigeria, the informal sector, specifically the motorcycle transport business popularly known in Nigeria as Okada has come under some form of government taxation and monitoring in some states in the country. This was to shore up their revenue base which has dwindled over the years. Extant literatures have not been able to examine the contribution of informal sector, specifically, the motorcycle transport business to internally generated revenue of the sub-units, especially Ebonyi State within the period under study. Thus, we pose the question: has the taxation of the motorcycle transport business operation improved on the internally generated revenue of Ebonyi State between 2015 and 2021? We anchored our analysis on Public Choice Theory of politics and economics. Data for the study were collected through both primary and secondary sources. The study found that despite the intensive taxation of the informal sector in Ebonyi State, specifically, the motorcycle transport business; the internally generated revenue of the state seems to be decreasing rather than increasing, given the number of taxable objects that has been brought under its internally generated revenue sources. The study recommended that the government should do more in the area of its internally generated revenue to ensure efficiency in collectability and remittances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teaching, learning and research at every level of the education system cannot be successful without appropriate resources. Adequate, quality resources are not readily available, especially in resource-constrained countries like Nigeria. These resources come in various formats (physically and/or electronically). Audiovisual resources (AVRs), electronic information resources (EIRs) and open educational resources (OERs) are examples of teaching and learning materials that could be procured by educational institutions and accessed by students and other members of the academic community. The instrument for data collection was a literature review directed to the librarians of the selected university libraries. The educational resources--in terms of availability and usage--were presented in tables comparatively. Findings show that each of the three university libraries has certain types of AVR, EIR and OER, which are available for students' use. Strategies for the effective use of these educational resources in Nigeria's academic libraries were discussed. It is recommended that adequate learning facilities, other than books, be provided by the government or private individual owners of the academic libraries in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. There is also a need for academic librarians and users to keep themselves abreast of the skills necessary for the appropriate use of educational resources (subscription or free-based) in the institutions where they are available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the magnitude of media coverage of environmental hazards in the mining communities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Motivated by the poor agricultural yields and increased prevalence of health challenges in the mining communities, it was established that the media is indispensable in the fight for a healthy environment in the State. However, the failure of the mass media in the State to embark on any form of environmental communication in order to monitor environmental issues made the fight almost impossible. Thus, the study set out to determine how committed and professional the media were in the fight. A sample size of 25 media practitioners, two radio stations and four newspapers all domiciled in the State were assessed using multi-staged random sampling technique. The study employed quantitative and qualitative research designs with questionnaire, interview and content analysis as instruments for data collection. Findings revealed that the mass media in the State were not involved in the fight for a healthy environment; none of them had environmental column/desk to monitor environmental hazards arising from mining activities in the State. The research concluded that the mass media should scrutinize the affairs of the State environmental actors in order for them to hold the mining companies accountable and protect the interests of the mining communities in the State.

The occurrence of heavy metals in soil and selected edible plants (Manihot esculenta, Dioscorea rotundata, Ipomoea batatas, Telfairia occidentalis, and Chromolaena odorata) in the vicinity of major Lead-Zinc mining sites in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was investigated. The concentrations of the detected heavy metals in soil from the study sites ranged from 0.38-77830.99 (mg.kg-1). The limit values for all detected metals in soil from the mining sites were exceeded in most instances. The results showed that the plant species accumulated heavy metals near the mining sites to varying levels in their shoots and roots. The limit values for all detected heavy metals in the edible plants were not exceeded except in a few instances. The plant species demonstrated varying effectiveness for phytoextraction, indicating their appropriateness in the phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil. Therefore, examining the environmental consequences of uncontrolled mining activity in the vicinity of the mining sites with a scientific approach has helped to increase our knowledge of the pollution problem in the mining sites, reveal the ferocity of the situation, and contribute to the techniques presently in use for monitoring chemical pollution in a mining-impacted ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent risky sexual behavior is of a public health concern as most outcomes have long-term negative consequences on adolescents’ health and development. Objectives: This study was undertaken to assess the prevalence and sociodemographic determinants of risky sexual behavior among unmarried adolescents in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was undertaken in Ebonyi state, Nigeria, using a pre-tested structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were collected from 1045 adolescent boys and girls. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analysis were performed using STATA software. Results: A total of 372 (35.6%) adolescents in the survey ever had a boyfriend or girlfriend. About, 369 (36.0%) had been pressurized by others to have sex, 73 (7.0%) had engaged in multiple sexual partnering, 3.0% had engaged in age-disparate sex, 27 (2.6%) had a one-night stand, and 37 (2.4%) reported they had engaged in nonconsensual sex. Lifestyle risky behaviors that were reported include partying/night clubbing 399 (38.1%), the use of mood-enhancing drugs 319 (30.5%), and alcohol consumption 316 (30.2%). Some sociodemographic factors were significantly associated with multiple sexual partnering, age-disparate sex, nonconsensual sex, and other lifestyle risky behaviors. In logistic regression analysis, gender was a predictor of multiple sexual partnering, age-disparate sex, and nonconsensual sex (odds ratio [OR] = 0.43, confidence interval [CI] = 1.40–3.71; OR = 10.0, CI = 0.03–0.29; OR = 3.0, CI = 0.01–0.14, respectively), while type of place of residence (OR = 1.75, CI = 0.35–0.92) and schooling status (OR = 3.70, CI = 0.13–0.41) were predictors of multiple sexual partnering. Conclusion: Risky sexual behaviors were prevalent among adolescents highlighting the need for strategic SRH interventions that pay close attention to identified drivers that predispose adolescents to unhealthy sexual behaviors.

Effective uses of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are considered key to the elimination of malaria among vulnerable populations. Several studies have revealed that the degree of awareness, ownership, and consistent use of ITNs by rural dwellers differ from one area or region to the other. The aim of the study was to determine the awareness of ITNs and factors affecting their use among rural dwellers in Ivo L.G.A of Ebonyi State. Simple survey method was adopted for the study. Three hundred (300) questionnaires were given out to respondents; however, 276 respondents representing 92% of the sample size returned their questionnaires. The data generated was analyzed and represented in simple frequency table and simple bar chart using IBM SPSS statistical package. The result indicated that majority of the respondents in the study area had vast knowledge of ITNs. Relationship between educational level, age, occupation of respondents and knowledge of ITNs was observed. The result showed that age, educational status, and educational status of rural dwellers were significantly associated with their knowledge of ITNs in Ivo LGA. Majority (72.5%) of the respondents in the study area had vast knowledge about ITNs, while minority (27.5%) had little or no knowledge of ITNs. The knowledge of ITNs by rural dwellers in Ivo LGA was independent of gender of the rural dwellers. A study to assess the actual use and impact of utilization of ITNs among children, pregnant mothers, nursing mothers, the adolescents, and the aged in Ivo communities is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is a leading cause of premature death among non-communicable diseases especially in low and middle-income countries Sudden deaths are on the increase in our rural communities especially among the middle-aged., Objective: To ascertain the level of awareness and prevalence of hypertension among rural dwellers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria., Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out in rural communities of Ebonyi State. A participant is classified as hypertensive if the systolic blood pressure is ≥ 140mmhg and/or diastolic blood pressure≥90mmhg. The blood pressure measurement was carried out using a standard instrument and technique. Any person who was ≥ 18 years and resided in the community and gave consent was included in the study. Such persons who declined at the commencement of the study for whatever reason were excluded. The sampling method was a convenient technique. The study instrument was semi- semi-structured paper-based interviewer-administered questionnaire written in local dialects., Results: The study participants are 417 in number, 182(43.6%) are males and 335(56.4%) females, age group 31-50 years and 351(84%) are farmers. Only 78(18.7%) of them are aware of the disease called hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension was 90(21.6%\) and out of this, only 28(6.7%) are on antihypertensive medication., Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of hypertension among rural dwellers in Ebonyi State with a low level of awareness of the disease. Also, most of the hypertensive study participants are not on medication. Public health education on hypertension is needed in the state., Competing Interests: The Authors declare that no competing interest exists, (Copyright © 2024 by West African Journal of Medicine.)

This paper investigates patterns of rape in Ebonyi state, South-East Nigeria. This was a retrospective study in which data on rape over a twenty year period (January 1999 to December 2018) were obtained from the records of the Criminal Investigation Department, Nigerian Police Force, State Headquarters, Abakaliki and the Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice, Abakaliki. The data was analysed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 software (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL, USA). The Chi square test and Students’ t-test test were used to analyze the categorical and continuous variables respectively. A multinomial Logistics Regression (MLR) and Pearson correlation Coefficient were used to determine the influence of the socio-demographic characteristics of the victims and perpetrators on rape of the victims. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. This study showed an association between recreational drug use by the perpetrators and rape of the victims. There was a nexus among types of perpetrators, site of committed crime and social habits of the perpetrators with rape of the victims. Victims in urban residential areas were more likely to be raped based on the types of the perpetrators, site of the crime committed and social habits of the perpetrators than the victims in rural areas. Victims who were

An outbreak of Yellow fever (YF) occurred in Ebonyi State, Nigeria in the year 2019 and a Rapid Response Team (RRT) from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Abuja was deployed to investigate and characterize the outbreak and institute control measures. All suspected cases were identified, linelisted and analyzed. Between May and August 2019, 78 suspected YF cases were identified from 5 LGAs in Ebonyi State. Of these, 17 (21.8%) confirmed YF cases [including 4 deaths (case fatality rate (CFR): 23.5%)] were reported in 4 LGAs, with majority 13 (76.5%) from Izzi LGA. Age groups mostly affected were 0-9 years 5(29.4%) and 20-29 years 5(29.4%) with mean age 19 ±12 years. Majority were males, 10 (58.8%). Overall, 50 eligible children participated in the YF VCS, 36(72.0%) had their vaccination cards available and only 24 (48.0%) of the cards had a record of YF vaccination. Aedeslarva was found in 9(90.0%) of 10 households surveyed and adult species Aedes simpsoni complexemerged from the collections. The 2019 YF outbreak in Ebonyi state was as a result of an abundance of Aedesmosquitoes and low vaccination coverage. We recommend a Statewide YF risk assessment, mass YF vaccination campaign, vector control and enhanced YF surveillance is important to prevent future outbreaks and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of access to bank and non-bank credit on rice productivity and output. It employed the coarsened exact matching (CEM) model and qualitative methods for primary data on a purposive sample of 450 rice farmers across three Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Pre-matching results suggest that access to non-bank credit and access to total credit significantly affected labour productivity and output, while access to bank credit significantly affected output. However, the post-matching results show that access to all three categories of credit has no significant effect on either output or capital, labour, and total factor productivity. This study therefore recommends that for an improved production and productivity yield among rice farmers in the state, policies should focus on the issues of improved quality of education and constraints in accessing loans/credits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitism affects output in pig production and introduces high risks of diseases. This study investigated ectoparasites and endo-helminths of pigs in Abakaliki and Izzi Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. One hundred and sixty eight (168) pigs were examined for both ecto- and faecal parasites. Snowball and simple random sampling techniques were employed in the study. Faecal samples collected using appropriate procedures were processed and examined using concentration techniques. Collection and processing of ectoparasites followed standard parasitological procedures. The recovered parasites were identified using morphological characteristics and standard guides. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square. Statistical significance was established at p<0.05. Overall, 44 pigs (26.1 %) were infested with ectoparasites. Pigs were infested most with Ctenocephalides canis (9.52 %) and least with Haemaphysalis species (1.79 %). There was significant difference (p = 0.042) in prevalence of C. canis with respect to sex. Sixty eight pigs (40.48 %) were infected with faecal parasites. Ascaris suum had the highest overall prevalence (17.86 %) while Taenia solium had the least (1.79 %). There was no significant difference between faecal parasite infection and age of pigs (p>0.05). However, a significant association (p = 0.026) was established between sex of pigs and infection with Fasciola hepatica. Thirteen (7.74 %) and 14(8.33 %) of the pigs were infested and infected respectively with more than one parasite taxa. Parasitism increased with advancement in age of pigs. Adequate utilization of veterinary services, good sanitation and proper training of farmers are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: mental health of students deteriorate when they begin studies in a medical school. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and associated factors among medical students in a university in Nigeria. Methods: a cross-sectional study design was used. All matriculated medical students of Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Nigeria were included in the study. Information was obtained using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Beck's depression inventory was used to determine the prevalence of depression. Chi square test was used to ascertain association between variables. Level of statistical significance was determined by p value of <0.05. Results: the mean age of the students was 23.2 ± 3.3 years and majority, 60.2% were males. Prevalence of depression was 17.4%. Third-year class (major examination class) had the highest proportion of students who were depressed, 24.2% while final year class had the least, 8.8%. Coping mechanisms for low moods included sleeping, 50.4% and having interactions with colleagues, 46.9%. Factors associated with depression included being <25 years, (p=0.008), being in the pre-clinical school, (p=0.023) and being afraid some students may not graduate from medical school (p=0.030). Conclusion: burden of depression was high among the students and most pronounced among third year students. There is need for proper orientation of newly admitted medical students on the medical curriculum by authorities of the university. Efforts should be made to decrease undue anxiety among students especially during examination. Adequate measures should be put in place for early detection and prompt management of cases of depression among the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the socio-economic factors influencing poverty among rural households in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi state, Nigeria. The study adopted multistage random and purposive sampling techniques to select 120 household heads. Primary data used for the study were collected using structured questionnaire. The data were analysed with the aid of means, percentage and frequency count and OLS multiple regression model. The result indicated that the households spent an average of N31,250 monthly to take care of their families and other essential personal needs. The result of the socio-economic characteristics showed that majority (53.3) of the respondents were females. The mean age was 36 years with majority (64.2%) married while an average of 6 persons per household was recorded. The predominant occupations were farming (36.0%) and civil service (35.8%). The households cultivated a mean farm size of 3.8 hectares, the mean monthly income was N19,720 while their average monthly expenditure amounted to N31,250. Moreover, 73.3% of the respondents belonged to one social organization or the other with over 90.0% of them having acquired various forms of formal education. The multiple regression result showed the coefficient of determination (R2) was 0.644 or 64.4%. The overall model was statistically significant (P

Profitability of rice production in different production systems in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was evaluated. Rice is critical for food security in Nigeria, hence, farmers need to make appropriate choices of rice production systems to optimize production and ensure an adequate domestic supply. This study used 2015 survey data from rice farming households. Rice farmers in swamp, lowland and upland rice production systems showed variability in profit. Swamp production systems had the highest return per hectare (29.37%) followed by lowland production systems (20.10%) and upland production systems (13.03%). Poor access to production credit and climate change were constraints to rice production in the area. Rice production using the swamp production system is profitable and would ensure increased production and higher returns to the farmers. It is recommended that farmers should form cooperative groups to enable them to pool resources together to boost their production.

Background: To determine knowledge and perception of key danger signs of pregnancy among mothers in urban and rural communities of Ebonyi state, Nigeria. Methodology: A comparative cross-sectional study design was used. The two-stage sampling technique was used to select 660 women in four of thirteen local government areas in the state. The women have delivered in last one year irrespective of place of delivery. Outcome measure included good knowledge of danger signs and was assessed by proportion of respondents who recalled four of eight danger signs. Positive perception was assessed by proportion who were aware that danger signs of pregnancy were capable of causing death of women if unattended to immediately. Results: The mean age of respondents was urban, 29.6±6.2 and rural, 28.6±5.1 years. The most recalled danger sign was bleeding before labour; urban, 280 (84.8%); rural, 267 (80.9%). Comparable proportions - urban, 272 (82.4%); rural, 287 (87.0%) had good knowledge of danger signs. (p=0.105). Predictors of good knowledge of danger signs included residing in urban, (AOR=0.4; 95%C1:0.2-0.9), being <30 years, (AOR=0.6; 95%C1:0.3-0.9), having 2-4 children, (AOR=2.4; 95%C1 :1.2-4.7) and not receiving antenatal care from a skilled provider. (AOR=0.2; 95%Cl:0.08-0.4). There was an association between good knowledge and positive perception of danger signs. (p<0.001 ). Conclusions: Majority of respondents in study area had good knowledge and positive perception of danger signs of pregnancy. Consolidating the understanding of danger signs will enhance maternal health outcome thus improving the maternal death burden in Nigeria. There is need to ensure that all women receive antenatal care from a skilled provider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Urinary schistosomiasis is a serious public health challenge in some communities of Ebonyi State, south-east Nigeria, partly resulting from a lack of adequate epidemiological data for the institution of effective control strategies. Objective: This study evaluated the prevalence and risk factors of urinary schistosomiasis in rural communities of Ebonyi State, south-east Nigeria. Methods: A total of 300 students, comprising 185 boys and 115 girls, were randomly selected for the study between July and December 2016. A questionnaire was administered to all participants to determine the risk factors for the disease in the area. Urine specimens collected from the participants were processed by sedimentation and examined microscopically for the eggs of Schistosoma haematobium. Results: The overall prevalence rate for urinary schistosomiasis was 8.0%. Students aged 6–10 years had the highest prevalence of infection (10.3%). The prevalence was significantly higher amongst male students (10.3%; p = 0.038) compared with female students (4.4%). Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between schistosomiasis infection and freshwater contact activities (p = 0.007; odds ratio = 1.89; 95% confidence interval: 4.33–16.17). Contact with stream, pond, river and well water were associated with infection rates of 25%, 14%, 5.3%, and 4.4%, respectively. Conclusion: A relatively low prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was found in the area. Participants’ socio-economic status and dependence on contaminated water sources were core modifiable risk factors. Health education and development of potable water infrastructure, amongst other interventions, would likely reduce the burden and transmission of urinary schistosomiasis in this locality.

Urinary schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma haematobium is very common in Nigeria, with Ebonyi State implicated to have the highest prevalence in the southeastern part of the country. The aim of this review was to estimate the status of urinary schistosomiasis in the State with regards to the elimination goals of World Health Organization (WHO). A comprehensive search of published articles on urinary schistosomiasis in Ebonyi State, Nigeria from 2006 to 2017 was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed and African Journals Online (AJOL) databases. Out of 26 retrieved articles, 15 met the inclusion criteria. The MetaXL software was used to compute the pooled prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis using the random effect model and results are presented as forest plot. Based on meta-analysis output, the pooled prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 26.02% [95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 17.91–35.04%]. The pooled prevalence was higher before 2014, the year when treatment with praziquantel (PZQ) was started. Of the senatorial zones, Ebonyi North had the highest pooled prevalence of 34.57% (95% CI = 10.50–61.32%). In addition, the prevalence of the disease was higher when all the age groups were sampled (31.33%; 95% CI = 12.75–51.98%) than when only schoolchildren were used as sampling population (25.23%; 95% CI = 15.66-35.93%). The pooled prevalence revealed that despite the mass drug distribution (MDA) of PZQ in the State, there is continued transmission of urinary schistosomiasis. Hence, if the WHO elimination goal of the disease has to be met, focused control and elimination programmes along with intense complementary public-health interventions are necessary.

Taxonomic studies were carried out on F. capensis, F. thonningii and F. umbellata based on macro-morphology and foliar epidermis to specifically state the diagnostic features of the three species used as vegetable. The young leaves of the species are very delicious vegetables. Standard methods were used for the studies. The results of the studies showed that the leaf shape was elliptic in F. thonningii and F. capensis and ovate in F. umbellata. Results of the studies showed considerable variations of leaf size among the three species studied. The leaf length of the F. capensis ranged from 7.0-11.0 cm with the mean of 10.5, the width ranges from 4.9-9.0 cm with the mean of 7.0 while the leaf length of F. thonningii ranged from 6.0-10.7 cm with the mean 9.8, leaf width ranged from 4.7-8.2 cm with the mean 5.0. The length of the F. umbellata ranged from 7.6-13.4 cm with the mean 9.0, the width ranged from 5.9-11.2 cm with the mean 8.0. The three species studied were hypostomatic as anomocytic stomata were common on the abaxial surfaces of F. capensis and F. thonningii while pericytic stomata were present in F. umbellata. Oblong-elliptic leaf shape with crenate margin, leaf apex: acute, leaf and fruit size, pentagonal epidermal cell shape are unique to F. capensis. Ficus thonningii possesses elliptic leaf shape, apiculate leaf apex and hexagonal epidermal cell shape while F. umbellata has ovate leaf shape with cordate base, cuspidate leaf apex, irregular cell shapes and multicellular trichomes on the adaxial surface. Proper identification of plant species is the first step to achieving credible and rewardable results of research on plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents a radiometric survey of Background Ionizing Radiation (BIR) dose levels in ten quarry sites located in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. In-situ BIR dose rate measurements, by means of nuclear radiation survey meter, at 1 m above ground level were carried out at the excavation section (ES) and quarrying section (QS) of the investigated quarry sites. The obtained results indicated dose rates ranging from from 0.14 to 0.18 µSv/h with mean of 0.15±0.01 μSv/h at the ES and 0.16 to 0.19 μSv/h with mean value of 0.18±0.01 μSv/h at the QS. While the values obtained at the QS are respectively higher than those measured at the ES, they are all higher than the worldwide average value of 84 nSv/h signifying BIR elevated environments. The estimated mean annual effective dose (AED) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) are 0.27±0.03 mSv/y and 0.94x10-3 respectively at the ES and 0.31±0.02 mSv/y and 1.07x10-3 at the QS. The obtained AED values for all the sites are well above the outdoor worldwide average value of 0.07 mSv/y but lower than the International Commission on Radiological Protection recommended permissible limits of 1.0 mSv/y for the general public. Generally, the BIR levels of the quarry sites are within acceptable limits and no immediate radiological health threat may be derived from the current levels. However, long-term health effects due to continuous exposure to low-level radiation doses may manifested in future over a lifetime exposure of 70 years as indicated by the ELCR values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated persistence of urinary schistosomiasis and geohelminthiasis during MDA of anthelminthics. Information on supply and utilization of the anthelminthics from 2014 to 2017 were obtained from Ebonyi State Ministry of Health, Abakaliki, and from Ezza North LGA headquarters respectively. Urine and stool specimens were collected from 200 pupils from selected schools in Ezza North LGA. The specimens were examined using standard parasitological techniques. A total of 389,064 and 725,443 tablets of praziquantel and albendazole respectively were supplied to the study-area from 2014 to 2017. The percentage utilization of the regimen was 57.03% and 63.88% respectively. Age-dependent prevalence of schistosomiasis among the pupils indicated a total of 10.5%. Age group 9-11 years had least prevalence (6.15%) in comparison with others, with significant difference (p=0.044). Though the males were infected more than the females (11.96% vs 9.26%), no significant difference (p=0.535) was observed in prevalence of S. haematobium infections. Gender-related prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthiasis indicated no significant difference (p=0.224). Infection prevalence with respect to taxa of geohelminths indicated that hookworms had higher prevalence (24.50%) than A. lumbricoides (5%) and Trichuris trichiura (2.5%). Prevalence of the helminths were still high, despite appreciable levels of supply and utilization of the regimens. Surveillance for drug resistance is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cats and dogs are important companion animals that paradoxically pose risks of zoonotic infections to their owners. This study determined the ectoparasitic infestations of cats and dogs in a semi-rural setting of Ebonyi State, so as to establish the prevalence of the ectoparasites among the companion animals for creation of public health awareness relevant to prevention of zoonoses in the area. Methods: One hundred dogs and 21 cats from Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, were examined for ectoparasitic infestations, using standard parasitological techniques. Systematic random sampling technique was employed in the study. Parasites were identified with standard identification guides. Data were analysed using aspects of Bush infection statistics and Chi-square. Statistical significance was established at p<0.05. Results: Out of the 100 dogs examined, 80 (80%), 8 (8%), 6 (6%), 2 (2%) and 4 (4%) were infested with Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Ctenocephalides canis, Ctenocephalides felis and Sarcoptes scabiei respectively. A significant association was observed between R. sanguineus and the dogs (X2=100.00; p=0.000). Six (28.6%) of the 21 cats examined were infested with C. felis, with significant statistical association (X²=21.000; p=0.000) and 2 (9.5%) were infested with Otodectes cynotis but no significant association (X²=5.526; p=0.063). Conclusion: Based on the observed prevalence of ectoparasites among the animals, collaborative efforts of the medical and veterinary personnel are solicited in the spirit of 'one health' in order to protect the health of the pets and those of their owners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Urinary schistosomiasis is a serious public health challenge in some communities of Ebonyi State, south-east Nigeria, partly resulting from a lack of adequate epidemiological data for the institution of effective control strategies. Objective: This study evaluated the prevalence and risk factors of urinary schistosomiasis in rural communities of Ebonyi State, south-east Nigeria. Methods: A total of 300 students, comprising 185 boys and 115 girls, were randomly selected for the study between July and December 2016. A questionnaire was administered to all participants to determine the risk factors for the disease in the area. Urine specimens collected from the participants were processed by sedimentation and examined microscopically for the eggs of Schistosoma haematobium. Results: The overall prevalence rate for urinary schistosomiasis was 8.0%. Students aged 6–10 years had the highest prevalence of infection (10.3%). The prevalence was significantly higher amongst male students (10.3%; p = 0.038) compared with female students (4.4%). Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between schistosomiasis infection and freshwater contact activities (p = 0.007; odds ratio = 1.89; 95% confidence interval: 4.33–16.17). Contact with stream, pond, river and well water were associated with infection rates of 25%, 14%, 5.3%, and 4.4%, respectively. Conclusion: A relatively low prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was found in the area. Participants' socio-economic status and dependence on contaminated water sources were core modifiable risk factors. Health education and development of potable water infrastructure, amongst other interventions, would likely reduce the burden and transmission of urinary schistosomiasis in this locality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: National tuberculosis (TB) programmes globally rely heavily on passive case finding for detecting TB in the community as advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO). TB case detection is low in Nigeria despite improvement in TB services and coverage. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of an active case-finding intervention utilizing community-based approaches and targeted systematic TB screening in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was done. The analysis was performed using Epi Info. Results: Using community-based and health-facility-based systematic screening strategies, 218,751 persons were screened, with 19.7% of them being presumptive TB cases. Among these, 23,729 (55.1%) submitted sputum samples for microscopy, and 764 (3.2%) had smear-positive TB. In addition, 683 individuals were diagnosed with other forms of TB using X-ray and clinical evaluation giving a total of 1447 all forms of TB cases. The overall number needed to screen (NNS) to find one person with all forms of TB through the project was 151. The NNS was 53 for general outpatients, 88 through contact tracing, and 110 among HIV-infected persons. Conclusions: Active case-finding strategies achieved good yields though early loss to follow-up was high. Active case finding is recommended for integration into national TB control policy and practice.

INTRODUCTION: Acquisition of research experience by medical students is associated with good research pathway at the postgraduate level and also in the pursuit of a research career. Also, it assists the physician to make evidence based decisions in clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: Aim of study was to determine the perception of research and predictors of research career among clinical medical students of Ebonyi State University Abakaliki,southeast Nigeria. METHODS: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used. All clinical medical students of Ebonyi State University who were willing to participate were included in the study. Information was obtained using a self administered questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of235students participated in the study, (response rate, 87.0%) .The mean age was 24.8±2.8 years and majority,61.3% were males. Majority,96.6% were of the opinion that research is important in the practice of Medicine, 66.4% opted for a mandatory research time in medical school and 18.3% agreed that students were encouraged to participate in research. A minor proportion,24.3% have ever participated in research apart from the mandatory student projects and 40.4% intend to pursue a career in research. Barriers to students' involvement in research included lack of funding,43.4%,lack of time,23.8% and lack of mentoring,22.1%.Predictors of research as a career among the students included being a male student, (AOR=2.1;95% CI:1.1-2.8), previous participation in research,(AOR=2.0;95% CI:1.1-5.8),and students that had career guidance,(AOR=3.7;95% CI:2.0-7.0), CONCLUSIONS: Majority of the students have a good perception of research. However only a minor proportion have participated in research and were willing to pursue a career in research. There is the need to encourage and motivate the students towards having interest in health research while also addressing the identified barriers. Career guidance should be institutionalized in our medical schools.

To evaluate the level of total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and effect of duration of exposure to pollutants in quarry workers, 5 mls of blood sample was collected from participants: 72 male quarry workers exposed to quarry pollutants and 72 unexposed controls. PSA estimations were done using the principle of ELISA. Mean total PSA, free PSA, and free-total PSA ratio levels of quarry workers did not differ from those of controls and was below the cutoff for the risk of prostate diseases. Higher mean total PSA and free PSA were observed in workers exposed for > 3 years compared to the unexposed control and workers exposed for ≤ 3 years. Age-adjusted linear regression indicated significant association (R D 0.515; p < .001) between the duration of exposure and total PSA level in quarry workers. This study suggests that longer duration of exposure to the quarry pollutants may elevate PSA level if precautions are not taken to minimize dose of exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: National tuberculosis (TB) programmes globally rely heavily on passive case finding for detecting TB in the community as advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO). TB case detection is low in Nigeria despite improvement in TB services and coverage. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of an active case-finding intervention utilizing community-based approaches and targeted systematic TB screening in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was done. The analysis was performed using Epi Info. Results: Using community-based and health-facility-based systematic screening strategies, 218,751 persons were screened, with 19.7% of them being presumptive TB cases. Among these, 23,729 (55.1%) submitted sputum samples for microscopy, and 764 (3.2%) had smear-positive TB. In addition, 683 individuals were diagnosed with other forms of TB using X-ray and clinical evaluation giving a total of 1447 all forms of TB cases. The overall number needed to screen (NNS) to find one person with all forms of TB through the project was 151. The NNS was 53 for general outpatients, 88 through contact tracing, and 110 among HIV-infected persons. Conclusions: Active case-finding strategies achieved good yields though early loss to follow-up was high. Active case finding is recommended for integration into national TB control policy and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online committee of friends meeting is a new trend in Nigeria. There is a continuous online interaction that goes on among the group members. The qualitative research design was used to carry out the study. The unstructured interview method was used to get information from the study participants. It was found among other things that the bereaved read, digest and accept the online condolence messages which serve as a coping tool to the loss of the loved one. Online COF is also a veritable tool in soliciting for and raising funds from online to facilitate the burial of loved ones owing to rising cost of conducting burials in Nigeria. It was concluded that coping with death is achieved in online COF through formation of whatsapp group, condolence messaging, friends digestion of information and acceptance of the pieces of advice raised and as divine will which comes when it will. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the benefits of urban green infrastructure (UGI) in sustainable development are well established in the literature, the specific benefits with the most influence on why people visit or use UGI spaces are not well understood. This study investigated the influence of perceived social benefits on motives for visiting UGI spaces in small and medium-sized towns in Southeast Nigeria. A survey of 513 participants in four main towns of Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria was done. The data were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H tests, descriptive and categorical regression analyses. The findings showed that the main motives for visiting UGI spaces were for enjoying nature, fresh air, relaxing, and walking these were significantly different across the respondents' age, marital status, and location. The role of UGI in promoting human-nature interactions, enhancing life satisfaction, and social interactions were the top three social benefits identified. The three social benefits with the most significant influence on motives for visiting UGI were the role of UGI in promoting physical well-being, social relations, a sense of community, and life satisfaction. The study implies that understanding public motives for visiting/using GI spaces and their predictors is vital for effective policy-making, planning, and management of UGI. • Influence of social benefits on motives for visiting UGI spaces was investigated. • A survey of 513 participants in four towns in southeast Nigeria was conducted. • Main motives for visiting UGI spaces were to enjoy nature, fresh air and relax. • Variations in motives were due to respondents' age, marital status and location. • Physical health benefit had the most influence on motives for visiting GI spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey was carried out to access the operators' knowledge of operation and maintenance of farm machinery for sustainable agricultural mechanisation in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The questionnaires, oral interviews/interactions and field investigations were used to ascertain the operators' educational background, experience on machine operation and maintenance in the government and private agricultural organisation in the study area. The survey revealed that 44.6% of the operator had both primary education and trade test; 26.9% had primary education only. 19.3% had trade test certificate only and 9.2% had post-primary education and trade test certificate. All the respondents were licensed to operate machines. The mean age and year of experienced of the operators were 41.05 and 19.8 years respectively. The statutory result on the machines indicated that 64.9% of the available machines were functional, 21.9% were non-functional but serviceable while 14.5% were non-functional but unserviceable. 50.4 to 79.8% of the operators examined from both government and private agricultural organisations could competently handle preventive and corrective maintenances while 17 to 20% had little knowledge of maintenance and about 2 to 10% had no knowledge of maintenance. Result showed that the machine failures encountered during operations were as a result of poor management, inadequate maintenance practices, and lack of spare parts, obsoleteness, overloading, careless operations and poor storage of machine after use. Recommendations were therefore given to improve the operation and maintenance of machinery in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of attitude on employee knowledge sharing intentions and examined the effect of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation on employee attitude and intention toward knowledge sharing. To understand the motivators of employee knowledge sharing intentions, a modified Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) was adopted. Specifically, extrinsic and intrinsic motivations contexts were considered as factors that affect employee attitude and intentions toward knowledge sharing. The descriptive survey design was adopted. The population of the study comprised civil servants in Ebonyi State in Southeastern Nigeria. Random sampling technique was used to select 297 respondents across six ministries in the state’s Civil Service Commission. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage distribution and correlation. Findings revealed that attitude did not significantly influence employee intentions to share knowledge. Of the four motivational factors, knowledge self-efficacy (r = 0.171, p = 0.003) and enjoyment in helping others (r = 0.002, p = 0.000) were significant and pointed towards a strong role in employee attitudes and knowledge sharing intentions. However, expected organizational rewards and reciprocal benefits were found not to significantly influence employee attitudes and knowledge sharing intentions. These were attributable to the nature of the civil service and low incentives made available for motivating knowledge sharing. The study concluded that extrinsic motivation does not have a significant effect on the knowledge sharing intentions of the employees of the Ebonyi State Civil Service Commission but enjoyment in helping others and knowledge self-efficacy are motivating factors to their knowledge sharing intentions. It was recommended that organizations emphasize on intrinsic motivation as extrinsic motivation only secures temporary compliance. There should also be an enhancement of knowledge sharing facilities and creation of a feedback system to increase the employees’ knowledge self-efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The health behaviour of Nigerian women regarding pregnancy-related care remains poor and poses one of the greatest challenges to maternal mortality reduction in the country. The aim of this study was to ascertain the factors influencing the choice of facility for antenatal care (ANC) and describe the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and utilization of skilled-provider ANC among the rural women of reproductive group in Ebonyi State. A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted in all the 5 Development Centres of Izzi Local Government Area. By systematic random sampling method 430 eligible women were selected and their responses elicited using semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed with SPSS and MathCad Professional. Results showed that out of the 85% of the respondents that used ANC in their last pregnancy, 26.6% were from traditional birth attendants (TBAs), 21.0% from nurse/midwife and 10.2% from doctors. While level of education had the most significant influence on utilization, proximity of facility and traditional beliefs also influenced their choice. It was recommended that efforts should be made to link rural communities with health facilities where skilled ANC services are provided, through massive awareness campaigns, community mobilization activities and scaling-up of the midwife service scheme in the rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To determine knowledge and perception of key danger signs of pregnancy among mothers in urban and rural communities of Ebonyi state, Nigeria., Methodology: A comparative cross-sectional study design was used. The two-stage sampling technique was used to select 660 women in four of thirteen local government areas in the state. The women have delivered in last one year irrespective of place of delivery. Outcome measure included good knowledge of danger signs and was assessed by proportion of respondents who recalled four of eight danger signs. Positive perception was assessed by proportion who were aware that danger signs of pregnancy were capable of causing death of women if unattended to immediately., Results: The mean age of respondents was urban, 29.6±6.2 and rural, 28.6±5.1 years. The most recalled danger sign was bleeding before labour; urban, 280 (84.8%); rural,267 (80.9%). Comparable proportions - urban, 272 (82.4%); rural, 287 (87.0%) had good knowledge of danger signs. (p=0.105). Predictors of good knowledge of danger signs included residing in urban, (AOR=0.4; 95%C1:0.2-0.9), being <30 years, (AOR=0.6; 95%C1:0.3-0.9), having 2-4 children, (AOR=2.4; 95%C1:1.2-4.7) and not receiving antenatal care from a skilled provider. (AOR=0.2; 95%C1:0.08-0.4). There was an association between good knowledge and positive perception of danger signs. (p<0.001)., Conclusions: Majority of respondents in study area had good knowledge and positive perception of danger signs of pregnancy. Consolidating the understanding of danger signs will enhance maternal health outcome thus improving the maternal death burden in Nigeria. There is need to ensure that all women receive antenatal care from a skilled provider., (Copyright © 2021 Nigerian Medical Association.)

Background: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has continued to plague households, leading to lockdown problems. Adopting appropriate mitigation strategies can reduce the impact on family members., Purpose: To assess the emotional impact of COVID-19 epidemic lockdown and mitigation measures among households in Ebonyi State., Methods: Cross-sectional survey design was used to study 516 participants. Emotional impact of COVID-19 lockdown ( r  = 0.73) and mitigation options ( r  = 0.92) questionnaire was used for data collection. Of the 516 copies of the questionnaire distributed, 493 copies (95.5% return rate) were used for data analysis. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, standard deviations, and t -tests., Results: The data showed the emotional impact of the COVID-19 epidemic was high (2.97 ± 0.48) on households. They embraced friendly communication and communication with their partners, maintaining regular contact with their loved ones by phone, email, social media, or video conference to alleviate the COVID-19 lockdown. No significant differences were found in the emotional impact for location ( p  > 0.05). Significant differences were not observed in many gender-based mitigation options. Conversely, a significant difference existed in the mitigation options based on location ( t  = 3.143, p  < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in friendly interactions and communication with partners ( t  = 0.354, p  > 0.05), finding opportunities to develop excellent and promising news and images ( t  = 0.770, p  > 0.05) and maintaining regular communication with loved ones via phone, email, social media, and video conference ( t  = 0.448, p  > 0.05)., Conclusion: The emotional impact of COVID-19 confinement was significant on family life and was more prevalent among men and urban dwellers. There is need to organise an awareness campaign on fundamental ways to overcome emotional distress using media targeting family members to promote emotional health., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2021.)