Application Of Larvicides Research Articles

Facet engineering in Au nanoparticles buried in Cu2O nanocubes for enhanced catalytic degradation of rhodamine B and larvicidal application

Water systems around the world are significantly impacted by organic pollutants from industrial activities. In this study, we report a novel and promising approach utilizing a cost-effective and simple chemical co-precipitation method for the synthesis of Cu2O@Au nanocubes. The characterization of these nanocubes was conducted using various advanced techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL). These analyses revealed the formation of crystalline nanocube-structured catalyst, confirming their purity, chemical state, and electronic structure. The synthesized Cu2O@Au nanocubes, particularly with 5 % Au over Cu2O, showed the highest catalytic efficiency in degrading Rhodamine B (RhB), achieving about 99.6 % degradation in 7 min. The deposition of Au significantly enhanced the electron mobility, thereby increasing the catalytic efficiency of the catalyst. GC/MS analysis performed to identify the intermediates formed and a possible degradation pathway of RhB was proposed. In addition, the toxicity of intermediates also evaluated by ECOSAR software. Reusability tests were conducted to assess the consistency and practical application of Cu2O@Au-5 % nanocubes. The results indicated high stability and sustained catalytic performance over multiple cycles. Additionally, the multifunctional properties of the synthesized material were validated through larvicidal activity tests, demonstrating its potential for broader environmental applications. Overall, Cu2O@Au-5 % presents a highly efficient and versatile catalyst for environmental remediation and other practical applications, demonstrating significant potential for large-scale use. These findings underscore the promise of Cu2O@Au as a multifunctional catalyst, capable of delivering substantial advancements in both environmental and public health domains.

Larvicidal activity of terpenes and their derivatives against Aedes aegypti: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) is the primary arthropod vector responsible for the transmission of dengue, which is present in more than one hundred countries. The application of synthetic larvicides is one of the most common strategies used for dengue control, but their prolonged use can cause larvicide resistance or tolerance, environmental damage, and have toxic effects on human and animal health. Thus, faced with this problem, there have been increasing efforts to find alternative larvicides against Ae. Aegypti. This search has been mainly focused on naturally occurring chemical compounds, driven by the evidence of their potential effectiveness, and by a desire to find more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and safe alternatives to synthetic larvicides. Thus, the present study aimed to review the effects of terpenes and their derivatives on mortality of the Ae. aegypti larvae, focusing mainly on a lethal concentration of 50% (LC50), in addition to summarizing information on its mechanisms of action and effects on non-target organisms. We searched the main databases for studies published up to April 2024 using relevant keywords, and data were extracted and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Twenty-one articles describing 69 different terpenes and derivatives met the criteria of the review and meta-analysis. Among them, 76.8% were terpenoids and 23.2% terpenes. The LC50 ranged from 0.4 to 1628.2ppm. The present review and meta-analysis showed that the terpenes and terpenoids can be promising chemical templates for use in eco-friendly larvicides against Ae. aegypti.

OCORRÊNCIA DA FEBRE DO NILO EM EQUINOS NO BRASIL

West Nile Fever (WNF) is a zoonotic arbovirus caused by the West Nile Virus (WNV). It is a highly relevant topic in veterinary medicine in Brazil. It was first identified in Uganda in 1937 and the virus spread to Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Western Asia and Australia. In 1999, the virus reached the United States and has since spread throughout the Americas, becoming the arbovirus with the largest geographic distribution. The first signs of WNV in Brazil appeared in 1999, with positive results in birds and horses, with birds acting as sentinels for the disease. In 2014, the first human case was recorded in Piauí. As of 2018, cases in birds and horses have been confirmed in Espírito Santo. WNV, an RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family, is transmitted by the bite of mosquitoes of the Culex genus, and these mosquitoes become infected through infected birds during the viremic period. Birds are amplifying hosts and humans and horses are accidental hosts. In Brazil, climatic, environmental and socioeconomic characteristics contribute to the amplification of the virus. Diagnosis is made by demonstrating antiviral IgM by ELISA, or, post-mortem, with RT-PCR. Preventive measures involve the use of repellents and screens, in addition to the application of larvicides. In horses, the application of vaccines, although recommended, is not yet licensed in Brazil. This study analyzed the occurrence of West Nile Fever in horses in Brazil through a review of scientific articles. Searches were conducted in the Google Scholar, PUBMED and Scielo databases, published between 2004 and 2024. The research was supported by the following search criteria: “Nile Fever”, “equines” and “Brazil”, in Portuguese, and “West Nile Fever”, “horses” and “Brazil”, in English. It was found that horses are accidental or terminal hosts and, because it is little known, many times it is not reported or diagnosed, thus demonstrating the importance of further studies and dissemination of information about this disease.

Public health contributions of entomological surveillance of West Nile virus (WNV) and other mosquito-borne arboviruses in a context of climate change.

Climate change is likely to increase the risk of human transmission of arboviruses endemic to Canada, including West Nile virus (WNV), Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and California serogroup virus (CSV), calling for enhanced surveillance, including entomological surveillance targeting mosquito vectors. A scoping review was carried out to document the public health contributions of entomological surveillance of arboviruses of importance in Canada. The Ovid® and EBSCO platforms and the grey literature were searched to identify documents published between 2009 and 2023, in English or French, dealing with entomological surveillance of arboviruses of interest, conducted annually for human health purposes under the aegis of a government authority, with specified public health objectives and actions. The 42 selected publications mainly reported two public health objectives of adult mosquito surveillance: early warning of viral circulation and assessment of the level of risk of human transmission. Recommended actions included clinical preparedness, risk communication, promotion of personal protection measures and vector control. The main objectives of immature mosquito surveillance were to identify sites with high larval densities, in order to reduce/eliminate them and target the application of larvicides. In a context of climate change favouring the spread of arboviruses, this study highlights the potential public health contributions of regular entomological surveillance of endemic arboviruses of importance in Canada. It helps support concrete actions to protect the health of the population from the risks of arboviral transmission.

Effectiveness of mass trapping interventions using autocidal gravid ovitraps (AGO) for the control of the dengue vector, Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti, in Northern Mexico

BackgroundMosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue, Zika and chikungunya, pose significant public health threats in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. To mitigate the impact of these diseases on human health, effective vector surveillance and control strategies are necessary. Traditional vector control methods, which rely on chemical agents such as insecticides and larvicides, face challenges such as resistance and environmental concerns. Consequently, there has been a push to explore novel surveillance and control tools. Mass trapping interventions have emerged as a promising and environmentally friendly approach to reducing the burden of mosquito-borne diseases. This study assessed mass-trapping interventions using autocidal gravid ovitraps (AGOs) on Aedes aegypti populations in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico.MethodsFour neighborhoods were selected to evaluate the effects of three treatments: AGO mass-trapping, integrated vector control (IVC), which included source reduction and the application of chemical larvicide and adulticide, and AGO + IVC on Ae. aegypti populations. A control area with no interventions was also included.The effectiveness of the interventions was evaluated by comparing Ae. aegypti abundance between the pre-treatment period (9 weeks) and the post-treatment period (11 weeks) for each treatment.ResultsOnly treatment using AGO mass trapping with an 84% coverage significantly reduced Ae. aegypti female populations by 47%, from 3.75 ± 0.32 to 1.96 ± 0.15 females/trap/week. As expected, the abundance of Ae. aegypti in the control area did not differ from the pre- and post-treatment period (range of 4.97 ± 0.59 to 5.78 ± 0.53); Ae. aegypti abundance in the IVC treatment was 3.47 ± 0.30 before and 4.13 ± 0.35 after, which was not significantly different. However, Ae. aegypti abundance in the AGO + IVC treatment increased from 1.43 ± 0.21 before to 2.11 ± 0.20 after interventions; this increase may be explained in part by the low AGO (56%) coverage.ConclusionsThis is the first report to our knowledge on the effectiveness of mass-trapping interventions with AGOs in Mexico, establishing AGOs as a potential tool for controlling Ae. aegypti in Northeastern Mexico when deployed with sufficient coverage.Graphical

Stakeholder Insights on Malaria Elimination Strategies in Pangandaran, West Java: a Qualitative Analysis

Indonesia has launched a determined effort to eliminate malaria by 2023, focusing on Java and Bali. Despite these efforts, Pangandaran in Java still faces malaria cases. This study aims to meticulously delve into the intricacies of the malaria elimination program's implementation while conducting a comprehensive evaluation of its effectiveness. Structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders responsible for the malaria program in Pangandaran to extract invaluable insights. The study, carried out in November 2022, followed qualitative research with narrative analysis to reveal nuanced narratives from the participants. Findings from this rigorous analysis revealed a harmonious alignment between the malaria control program in Pangandaran and the Indonesian Ministry of Health guidelines. The strategy to combat malaria vectors in Pangandaran included mosquito net distribution, strategic larvicide application, and educational campaigns like Malaria Awareness Society (MASAMA). The expectation is that the current effective control program will resonate within the Pangandaran community, ultimately leading to the realization of the 2023 elimination target.

Evaluation of the In2Care Mosquito Station at low deployment density: a field study to manage Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) in North Central Florida.

In the last 2 decades, there has been an increase in the geographic range and frequency of vector-borne diseases. Management of mosquito populations has become challenging due to increasing rates of resistance to existing insecticidal products and formulations. Several alternative tools have emerged to suppress or replace mosquito populations. One of these tools is the In2Care Mosquito Station (In2Care station). This dual-action station contains the insect growth regulator pyriproxyfen which disrupts the development of immatures and the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (B. bassiana) strain GHA which kills exposed adult mosquitoes. The In2Care stations have previously been shown to effectively control Aedes aegypti in field settings at a density of 6 stations/acre rather than the label-recommended 10 stations/acre. To further test the efficacy of low station density deployment, we deployed In2Care stations in the Pleasant Street Historic District of Gainesville, Florida, at a density of 3 stations/acre over a period of 2 years in the presence or absence of ground larvicidal applications. The deployment of stations resulted in no measurable impact on Ae. aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus adult or immature abundance suggesting that the low-density deployment of In2Care stations is insufficient to reduce Ae. aegypti and Cu. quinquefasciatus abundance within treatment areas.

DENGUE MANAGEMENT THROUGH MOSQUITO CONTROL: ASPHYXIATION TECHNIQUES AND HOMEMADE REPELLENTS FOR SKIN PROTECTION

Mosquito-borne diseases pose significant health challenges globally, particularly in regions such as Bangladesh where chikungunya and dengue have been prevalent in recent years. These diseases are transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water. Common mosquito-borne diseases include chikungunya, dengue, malaria, and Zika virus, among others. Efforts to control mosquito populations have included the destruction of breeding sites, the application of larvicides, and more recently, the use of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI) in Dhaka. While these measures have helped manage chikungunya, dengue remains a persistent issue despite ongoing control efforts. This paper explores innovative mosquito control strategies, focusing on asphyxiation techniques to reduce mosquito populations and the use of homemade repellents for personal protection against mosquito bites. The effectiveness of these methods in the context of dengue management is critically examined.

Acceptability of emergent Aedes aegypti vector control methods in Ponce, Puerto Rico: A qualitative assessment.

Aedes aegypti control has been fraught with challenges in Puerto Rico. The government has implemented commonly used vector control methods, but arboviral epidemics still occur. It is necessary to explore new Ae. aegypti control methods. This study aimed to understand the perceptions of community members in Ponce, Puerto Rico about emergent and traditional Ae. aegypti vector control methods and determine their acceptability and support for these methods. We identified the type of information needed to increase support for emergent vector control methods, and the preferred strategies to disseminate this information. Four group discussions were conducted with a total of 32 participants representing eight of the 14 clusters participating in the Communities Organized for the Prevention of Arboviruses (COPA), a project designed to mobilize communities in Ponce, Puerto Rico to prevent diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. Group discussions began with an overview of different methods used for controlling Ae. aegypti mosquitoes. These overviews facilitated participant understanding of the mosquito control methods presented. Use of source reduction, autocidal gravid ovitraps (AGO), and manual application of larvicide for arboviral mosquito control received support from almost all participants. Vector control methods that use more familiar techniques in Puerto Rico such as truck-mounted larvicide spraying (TMLS) and insecticide residual spraying received support from most participants. More than half of participants supported the use of emergent mosquito control methods including Wolbachia suppression, Wolbachia replacement, or genetically modified mosquitoes (GMM). Participants preferred to receive vector control information through house-to-house visits with the distribution of written materials, followed by dissemination of information through traditional (i.e., radio, television) and social media. The detailed information resulting from this study was used to develop messages for a communications campaign to garner future community support. Community acceptance and support are critical for the success of vector control programs using emergent mosquito control methods.

Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles from Marine Streptomyces parvisporogenes KL3 for Effective Antibacterial and Larvicidal Applications

Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles from Marine Streptomyces parvisporogenes KL3 for Effective Antibacterial and Larvicidal Applications

Fine-scale monitoring of insecticide resistance in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) from Sri Lanka and modeling the phenotypic resistance using rational approximation

BackgroundThe unplanned and intensified use of insecticides to control mosquito-borne diseases has led to an upsurge of resistance to commonly used insecticides. Aedes aegypti, the main vector of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus, is primarily controlled through the application of adulticides (pyrethroid insecticides) and larvicides (temephos). Fine spatial-scale analysis of resistance may reveal important resistance-related patterns, and the application of mathematical models to determine the phenotypic resistance status lessens the cost and usage of resources, thus resulting in an enhanced and successful control program.MethodsThe phenotypic resistance for permethrin, deltamethrin, and malathion was monitored in the Ae. aegypti populations using the World Health Organization (WHO) adult bioassay method. Mosquitoes' resistance to permethrin and deltamethrin was evaluated for the commonly occurring base substitutions in the voltage-gated sodium channel (vgsc) gene. Rational functions were used to determine the relationship between the kdr alleles and the phenotypic resistant percentage of Ae. aegypti in Sri Lanka.ResultsThe results of the bioassays revealed highly resistant Ae. aegypti populations for the two pyrethroid insecticides (permethrin and deltamethrin) tested. All populations were susceptible to 5% malathion insecticide. The study also revealed high frequencies of C1534 and G1016 in all the populations studied. The highest haplotype frequency was detected for the haplotype CC/VV, followed by FC/VV and CC/VG. Of the seven models obtained, this study suggests the prediction models using rational approximation considering the C allele frequencies and the total of C, G, and P allele frequencies and phenotypic resistance as the best fits for the area concerned.ConclusionsThis is the first study to our knowledge to provide a model to predict phenotypic resistance using rational functions considering kdr alleles. The flexible nature of the rational functions has revealed the most suitable association among them. Thus, a general evaluation of kdr alleles prior to insecticide applications would unveil the phenotypic resistance percentage of the wild mosquito population. A site-specific strategy is recommended for monitoring resistance with a mathematical approach and management of insecticide applications for the vector population.Graphical

MOSQUITO CONTROL AND SCRAP TIRES: SAME OLD PROBLEM, NO RELIABLE STRATEGIES

Artificial breeding sites in urban areas have favored the domestication of mosquito vectors. Scrap tires are an important breeding source for mosquito larvae. Few efforts have been made to establish appropriate management measures for used tires, which poses a challenge for larval control activities. Here we mention the inconveniences of tire disposal and the physical and chemical control alternatives. We also note the available methods of larvicide application against larvae in tires and the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The possible effect of overdose/underdose on the development of resistance is considered. Finally, we mention that the actions of vector control programs, the local or state government policies, and active community participation must be interconnected to develop effective tire management.

Correction to: Biogenic synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Drynaria Quercifolia tuber extract for antioxidant, antibiofilm, larvicidal, and photocatalytic applications

Correction to: Biogenic synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Drynaria Quercifolia tuber extract for antioxidant, antibiofilm, larvicidal, and photocatalytic applications

A Multiobjective Optimization Application to Control the Aedes Aegypti Mosquito using a Two-Dimensional Diffusion-Reaction Model

Aedes aegypti is the main vector of multiple diseases, such as dengue, yellow fever, Zika, and chikungunya. Diseases associated with mosquitoes have been growing in recent years, with more than one-third of the world population at risk. Control techniques have been studied to prevent the spread of the Aedes aegypti, such that new formula and how to use adulticides and larvicides, among others. This paper proposes a novel approach in the field of partial differential equations and optimization. We consider a two-dimensional diffusion-reaction model that describes the interaction between aquatic and adult female stages spreading across a domain with parameters dependent on rainfall and temperature. We also formulate a mono-objective and multiobjective optimization problem to minimize the Aedes aegypti populations and the control, considering the application of adulticides and larvicides, using actual data from the city of Lavras/Brazil. The operator splitting technique is used to solve the diffusion-reaction system, coupling finite difference and the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method and optimal solutions were searched by using the Real-Biased Genetic Algorithm and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm -II. Numerical results show significant reduction of the Aedes aegypti population.

Does prior exposure to larvicides influence dengue virus susceptibility in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)?

Control of mosquito vector populations is primarily intended to reduce the transmission of pathogens they transmit. Use of chemical controls, such as larvicides, can have unforeseen consequences on adult traits if not applied properly. The consequences of under application of larvicides are little studied, specifically the impacts on pathogen infection and transmission by the vectors that survive exposure to larvicides. We compared vector susceptibility of Aedes aegypti (L.) for dengue virus, serotype 1 (DENV-1) previously exposed as larvae to an LC50 of different classes of insecticides as formulated larvicides. Larval exposure to insect growth regulators (methoprene and pyriproxyfen) significantly increased susceptibility to infection of DENV-1 in Ae. aegypti adults but did not alter disseminated infection or transmission. Larval exposure to temephos, spinosad, and Bti did not increase infection, disseminated infection, or transmission of DENV-1. Our findings describe a previously under observed phenomenon, the latent effects of select larvicides on mosquito vector susceptibility for arboviruses. These data suggest that there are unintended consequences of sublethal exposure to select larvicides that can influence susceptibility of Ae. aegypti to DENV infection, and indicates the need for further investigation of sublethal effects of insecticides on other aspects of mosquito biology, especially those parameters relevant to a mosquitoes ability to transmit arboviruses (life span, biting behavior, extrinsic incubation period).

Container characteristics and density of Aedes aegypti larvae: a field trial of Ziziphus mauritiana leaf extract

The application of larvicide from botanical origin was extensively studied as an essential part of mosquito prevention. This study aimed to assess the difference in container index (CI) based on the characteristics of water containers using <em>Ziziphus mauritiana</em> leaf extract solution. A quasi- experiment research was done among 300 selected containers with temephos as a control and 9% of <em>Ziziphus mauritiana</em> leaf extract solution as a treatment. The types of containers observed in this study were the type of water, container materials, location, container lids, and community behavior regarding immature <em>Aedes aegypti</em> breeding eradication. Water containers without lids and outside the house had a significantly higher CI among treatment (OR=26; 3.69–18.34; p=0.001 and OR=20; 2.04–19.64; p=0.003) and control group (OR= 10.83; 95% CI=1.96–59.83; p=0.005 and OR=6.43; 95% CI=1.02–40.26; p=0.04). Negative community behavior regarding the prevention and eradication of <em>Aedes</em> immatures was significantly associated with greater odds of high CI among treatment and control, with OR=37.5; 3.64–38.65; p=0.001 and OR=16.88; 2.56-11.4; p=0.002, respectively. Furthermore, containers with rainwater out of the treatment group had a higher presence of <em>Aedes larvae</em> (OR=11.25; 1.15–11.05; p=0.03).

Evaluating the Sublethal Effects of Origanum vulgare Essential Oil and Carvacrol on the Biological Characteristics of Culex pipiens biotype molestus (Diptera: Culicidae).

Culex pipiens is a mosquito species complex spread worldwide that poses a serious threat to human health as the primary vector of West Nile virus. Its control is mainly based on larvicidal applications with synthetic insecticides on mosquito breeding sites. However, the excessive use of synthetic larvicides may provoke mosquito resistance issues and negative side effects to the aquatic environment and human health. Plant-derived essential oils, including those from the Lamiaceae family, can be eco-friendly alternative larvicidal agents causing acute larval toxicity and/or growth inhibitory effects on the developmental stages of mosquitoes through different modes of action. In the current laboratory study, we evaluated the sublethal effects of carvacrol-rich oregano essential oil and pure carvacrol on Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, the autogenous member of the Cx. pipiens species complex, after the exposure of 3rd-4th instar larvae to LC50 concentrations. The short-term (24 h) larvicidal treatment with the sublethal concentrations of both tested materials exhibited an acute lethal effect on the exposed larvae as well as significant delayed mortality for surviving larvae and pupae. Larvicidal treatment with carvacrol reduced the longevity of the emerged males. In addition, the morphological abnormalities that were observed at the larval and pupal stage along with failed adult emergence indicate the potential growth inhibitory properties of the tested bioinsecticides. Our findings suggest that carvacrol and carvacrol-rich oregano oil are effective plant-based larvicides at doses lower than the acute lethal ones, thus promoting an environmentally friendly and more affordable perspective for their use against the WNV vector Cx. pipiens biotype molestus.

Eco-friendly approach for ZnO nanoparticles synthesis and evaluation of its possible antimicrobial, larvicidal and photocatalytic applications

The synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) from plants is a viable eco-friendly approach with applications in different sectors. Thus, we aim to synthesize and characterize zinc oxide NPs (ZnO NPs) from Ficus racemosa L. leaf extract and to evaluate their larvicidal potential against Aedes albopictus larvae, their efficacy against human clinical pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli). Furthermore, we evaluated its use in photocatalytic rhodamine B (RhB) dye degradation and its possible acute toxicity to a non-target organism (Artemia salina). The biosynthesized ZnO NPs were characterized using UV–Vis, XRD, SEM-EDX, TEM, and FT-IR. UV–vis absorption spectrum indicates that the green synthesized ZnO NPs absorb at the wavelength centered at 365 nm, corresponding to the band gap of 3.2 eV. We reported that A. albopictus mosquito larvae were highly susceptible to ZnO NPs, especially when exposed to 250 μg ZnO NPs/mL. The reduction of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and the carboxylesterases phosphatases evaluated was concentration-dependent, constituting a possible mechanism of larvicidal action of NPs. Biosynthesized ZnO NPs also significantly inhibited the growth of the bacterial species evaluated, suggesting good bactericidal activity. Furthermore, the ZnO NPs efficiently degraded RhB dye in an aqueous solution under UV light irradiation, proving promising in dye remediation in wastewater. Finally, ZnO NPs suspension exhibited lower acute toxicity of A. salina after 48 h of exposure. Therefore, our study pioneeringly demonstrates that biosynthesis of ZnO NPs from F. racemosa leaf extract can be a great approach to developing versatile and environmental products.

Evaluation of the manhole physical pest management system UNFO-PLS for mosquito control in southern Switzerland

The expanding distribution of theAedes albopictus mosquito (also known as the Asian tiger mosquito) throughout Europe is a health and safety threat due to its potential to spread tropical and sub-tropical arboviruses to temperate climate regions. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important to broaden the use of all tools within integrated pest management systems to control this threat. Since this mosquito species in Europe breeds mainly in manhole drains, managing them is therefore essential. The UNFO-Pest Lock System (UNFO-PLS) mechanical control device fits in siphoned manholes and prevents mosquitoes from entering the manhole and breeding in the water below. We tested and quantified the efficacy of these UNFO-PLS devices against standard control manholes (no mechanical devices attached) in Balerna, Switzerland (Canton Ticino). Weekly counts of five developmental stages (larval stages L1-L4 and the pupal stage) were conducted at 12 experimental and 12 standard control manholes during the mosquito breeding and activity periods of 2020 and 2021. For each developmental stage, we compared the counts of mosquitoes in manholes fitted with and without the UNFO-PLS devices using generalised mixed-effect models. Results show that these devices reduced the presence of mosquitoes at all developmental stages between 92.6-97.2%. The use of the UNFO-PLS mechanical control device, or similar devices, should be considered for use in integrated mosquito pest management plans, especially in places that might present challenges for maintaining adequate larvicide applications, such as around schools and secondary homes.

Fabrication of a bifunctionalyzed Calotropis gigantea inspired Ag–Cu–Co trimetal oxide for the remediation of methylene blue, and its larvicidal and antibacterial applications

A Calotropis gigantea supported Ag–Cu–Co trimetal oxide was synthesized for larvicidal, antioxidant, antibacterial and photocatalytic degradation studies.