Amhara Region Research Articles

Community-mobilized soil and water conservation and farmers' preferences for mitigating land degradation

Abstract Various soil and water conservation (SWC) practices have been constructed through campaign-based integrated watershed management in Ethiopia since 2011. However, not all SWC measures were implemented across the country and preferred by the farmers equally. Hence, this research aimed to evaluate the trends of community-mobilized SWC practice and farmers' SWC preference to combat land degradation in Amhara region, Ethiopia. The study utilized primary and secondary data from 92 selected watersheds across 13 zones, 45 woredas, and 1,739 households. Extensive household interviews that include elders, women, and youth, as well as focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The result showed that 128,726.28 hectares of gully rehabilitation had been carried out, 4,436,096.3033 hectares of cultivated fields have received SWC measures, and SWC measures were done on 817,104.7 hectares of communal land. Despite these commendable initiatives, it was found that 46% of the community-mobilized SWC structures built on cultivated land have been partially or entirely removed, additionally, 66% of the constructed SWC structures lack support by biological measures. Furthermore, the survey revealed that 20% of the respondents' land holdings were affected by gullies, and a 43% decrease trend in efforts to combat gully erosion since 2011. This study demonstrates the significance of implementing SWC measures for the sustainability of the watershed. It also underscores the vital role of regular maintenance in enhancing the effectiveness of the structures, along with the imperative need to reinforce the SWC structures using biological measures. Moreover, the research stresses the importance of rehabilitating communal lands through enclosure and improving cropland soil fertility by applying organic compost.

Rural Households' Vulnerability to Climate Variability and Adaptation Strategies in the Case of Begemdir District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Climate change vulnerability is the biggest threat to ecosystems and economies of the world. Hence, this study aims to assess the vulnerability to climate variability adaptation strategies of rural households in Begemdir District, Northwest Ethiopia. In this study, the cross-sectional research design was used to gain a wider and better understanding of vulnerability to climate variability. Both primary and secondary data were used to triangulate the study to maintain validity. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 sample households from the study area. Moreover, climatic data, such as rainfall and temperature data were collected from meteorological stations. The data gathered from primary data sources analyzed by using descriptive statistics. Finally, a logistic regression model was employed to identify the factors that affecting households' decisions to climate adaptation strategies in the study area. The results of the study reveal that the overall IPCC-LVI score is 0.49, and the perceived rainfall has decreased over the last decade. This implies livelihoods of the households are vulnerable to climate variability and low adaptive capacity. The age, sex, education level, extension services, land size, credit access, access to climatic information, access to credit, and extension services affected significantly (p < 0.05) households' vulnerability to climate variability in the study area. Thus, the local governments, policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and farming communities need to consider these variables to realize climate change adaptation strategies in the study area. Moreover, higher focus should be given to enhancing education, expanding access to credit, increasing land management support, as well as strengthening extension services to build long-term sustainable climate-resilient practices and mitigate the impacts of climate change vulnerability to households in the study area.

Prevalence and determinants of hyperemesis gravidarum among pregnant women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Studies focusing on the occurrence and correlates of hyperemesis gravidarum in Ethiopia have reported varied values in different regions of the country. Additionally, there is no systematic review and meta-analysis summarizing the prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum and its determinants in Ethiopia. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the overall prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum and explore its determinants in Ethiopia. Cross-sectional or case-control studies conducted in Ethiopia, written in English, and reporting the prevalence or the determinant of hyperemesis gravidarum among pregnant women were included in the review. International databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Science Direct, African Journal Online, Directory of Open Access Journal, and African Index Medicus) and Ethiopian university repositories (Jimma, Addis Ababa, Haramaya, Hawassa, and Gondar Universities) were searched from September 4-15, 2023, to identify articles published on the topic. The pooled prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum with a 95% confidence interval was presented using the forest plots. The heterogeneity of the studies was checked by I2 with its corresponding p-values and the Galbraith plot. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were performed to identify sources of heterogeneity. Funnel plot, Egger, and Begg's tests were used to assess publication bias. A total of 11 articles with a 3510-sample size were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum among pregnant women in Ethiopia was 7.12% with a 95% CI (4.09-10.15) and a high level of heterogeneity (I2 = 86.5%, p<0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed the overall prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum was highest in the Amhara region with 11.30%, 95% CI (8.20-14.40), and lowest in Oromia with 3.40%, 95% CI (1.94-4.85). Having a previous history of hyperemesis gravidarum (POR = 3.828, 95% CI: 1.673-5.983), being in the first trimester of pregnancy (POR = 8.476, 95% CI: 5.047-11.905), and Helicobacter pylori infection (POR = 3.924, 95% CI: 2.027-5.821) were found to be significantly associated with hyperemesis gravidarum in Ethiopia. The prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum among pregnant women in Ethiopia is high. Targeting pregnant women in the first trimester, with a previous history of hyperemesis gravidarum, and those with Helicobacter pylori infection during prenatal counseling on how to manage and reduce hyperemesis gravidarum is very helpful to avert related complications. The review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the registration number "CRD42023461808", on September 19, 2023.

The overlooked war in Northern Ethiopia: Examining psychological capital, mental distress, and post-traumatic stress disorder among internally displaced people in Amhara region.

Conflict-induced displacement is a greater risk factor for mental health challenges, especially in countries where people have limited access to mental health services. This study examined the prevalence of mental distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and their relationship with key demographic variables and psychological capital among conflict-induced Internally Displaced People (IDP) in the Wag-Hemra Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. The study used a cross-sectional quantitative design, and simple random sampling was used to recruit 367 IDPs from the Weleh IDP camp in Sekota town. The Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ 12), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K 10), and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder-Civilian Version (PCL-C) scales were used to collect data. STATA version 2021 was used to analyze data. The prevalence of mental distress and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was 63% and 48 %, respectively. Mental distress and PTSD were higher among female participants (M = 27.4, 45.7), those who experienced rape (M = 32.6, 55.5), witnessed murder (M = 25.2, 46.1), widowed (M = 30.9, 44.9), illiterate (M = 28.1%, 47.2), and adolescents (M = 27.6, 45.5). Stepwise regression analysis indicated that psychological capital is a significant negative predictor of mental distress and PTSD (p = .000), with 26% mental distress and 20.9% variance in PTSD accounting for psychological capital, with self-efficacy being the strongest predicting component of psychological capital. The study underlined that mental health efforts should target enhancing psychological capital as the critical element in mitigating the psychological impacts of war and displacement. Training on improving self-efficacy, utilizing the solid spiritual and religious base of the IDP community to raise hope and optimism, and leveraging the communal culture to foster resilience could help reduce mental distress and the effects of PTSD among IDPs in the study area.

Outbreak Investigation and Economic Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease in Bovine in Western Amhara Regional State, North Western Ethiopia

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed wild and domestic animals and causes significant economic losses in the livestock industry. This aim of this study was to identify the circulating serotypes and determine it’s economic impact on cattle production. A a retrosepective questionnaire survey was conducted with 100 farm owners from six districts to determine the economic losses associated with foot and mouth diseases over one year. During the survy, fourteen active case epithelial tissue samples from three districts, which outbreak occure, were collected from the fourteen cattle. The collected tissue sample detected using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The foot and mouth diseases serotype O, A, SAT1, and SAT2 were identified using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition questionnaire survey data revealed that the average economic loss was 5553.21ETB (132.21$USA) per herd and 1124.13ETB (26.76$USA) per individual animal. The present investigation indicated that still foot and mouth disease outbreaks occurred in different areas of the northwestern Amhara region, and the economic impact of the disease is extremely severe, resulting in massive economic losses. Therefore, it is recommended that further studies on the epidemiology, vaccine trials, and socioeconomic consequences should be conducted to design appropriate control options.

Determinants of Improved Boset Teff Variety Adoption in Minjar Shenokora District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

The current production system of teff cannot satisfy the consumers demand and this is due to backward agricultural mechanisms and lack of improved teff varieties. The governments of Ethiopia renew their interest on improved teff variety adoption to improve farmer’s farm productivity. There are a number of improved teff varieties invested in Ethiopia in general and in the study area in particular. However, Mnijar shenkora district is well known boset teff variety have been disseminated and adopted in the district through the help of agricultural research centers to improve teff production in the area. Investigating the determinants of improved boset teff variety adoption is important. A sample of 245 farm households was considered for socio economic survey. The collected data were analysed through descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The descriptive statistics indicated that, there is significance difference between boset teff adopters and non-adopters. Binary logit model was applied to identify the determinants of improved boset teff variety adoption. The result indicates that improved boset teff adoption is determined by different factors. Family size, fertilizer use and farming experience was negatively associated with adoption of improved boset teff variety. In contrast, education level, cultivated farm size and access to credit were positively associated with improved boset teff variety adoption.

Macrophyte species composition and abundance of hydrogeologically connected wetlands in upper Abbay river basin, Ethiopia

Macrophytes are key components of aquatic ecosystems including wetlands that have considerable ecological importance. The role of macrophytes is closely linked to their structural attributes like species composition and abundance. Therefore, this study aimed to assess macrophyte species composition, abundance and diversity of six hydrogeologically connected wetlands in the upper Abbay River basin, Ethiopia. The studied wetlands (Gudera, Geray, Zindib, Kurt Bahir, Infranz and Wonjeta) are found in west Gojjam administrative zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia. Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted at the end of September 2021 and February 2022. Quadrat sampling technique was employed to collect macrophyte samples following protocols for sampling aquatic macrophytes in freshwater wetlands. A total of 41 species of macrophytes belonging to 16 families were identified across the wetlands. The wetlands were dominated by emergent macrophytes, with the Poaceae and Cyperaceae families being particularly abundant. The physicochemical water quality status, water level fluctuations and level of human interventions might be the reason for the variation in the macrophytes composition, abundance and diversity across the wetlands. The low macrophyte diversity index value and the presence of pollution-tolerant taxa such as Pistia stratiotes and Azolla africana indicate an overall ecological degradation of the wetlands. Therefore, this study highlights the potential role of macrophyte monitoring to identify anthropogenic pollution. Application of appropriate land use planning and the development of macrophyte based multimetric indices are recommended for their sustainable management.

Cross-cultural adaptation of the 5-Question Stigma Indicators in trachoma-affected communities, Ethiopia.

Stigma is common in people affected with Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). However, no validated tools are available to assess and monitor stigma in trachoma-affected communities. We tested the cross-cultural equivalence of the 5-question stigma indicator-affected persons (5-QSI-AP) scale in persons with trachomatous trichiasis (TT), the blinding stage of trachoma, and the 5-question stigma indicator-community stigma (5-QSI-CS) scale in person without TT, in Amhara region, Ethiopia. Conceptual, item, semantic, and operational equivalence were assessed through exploratory qualitative methods; measurement equivalence was assessed quantitatively through internal consistency, construct validity, and reproducibility. A total of 390 people participated: 181 were persons with TT, 182 persons without TT, 19 mental health, trachoma, social science, and linguistics experts, and eight interviewers. Items included in both scales were adequately relevant and important to explore stigma in the target culture. Concern about others knowing that they have TT, shame, avoidance by others, and problems getting married or in their marriage were among the issues persons with TT faced in this study community. The 5-QSI-AP had a Cronbach's α of 0.57 for internal consistency and showed adequate discriminant validity where persons with central corneal opacity from TT had higher mean stigma scores than their counterparts. The 5-QSI-CS had a Cronbach's α of 0.70 for internal consistency and a correlation of r = 0.23 with the Social Distance Scale (SDS) for convergent validity. The test-retest reliability analysis between the initial and repeat measures produced an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.60 and 0.53 for the 5-QSI-AP and 5-QSI-CS respectively, and no evidence of systematic bias in mean stigma scores. The 5-QSI scales have satisfactory cultural validity to assess and monitor stigma in this trachoma-affected Amharic-speaking study population. With further cross-cultural validation, these brief and easy to administer scales would offer the possibility to rapidly measure and monitor stigma associated with NTDs.

Assessment of eye care practices and health belief model factors among adult intensive care unit nurses in public hospitals of Amhara Region, Ethiopia

BackgroundEye care is a vital aspect of overall patient health, especially in intensive care units (ICUs) where patients face a heightened risk of ocular complications. Approximately 60% of patients with tracheal tubes and lagophthalmos develop severe ocular surface diseases, such as corneal abrasions, conjunctivitis, and exposure keratopathy, due to insufficient eye protection and lubrication. These complications can adversely affect patient outcomes, including increased mortality rates, extended hospital stays, and reduced satisfaction with care. Despite the importance of effective eye care, practices among intensive care unit nurses can be inconsistent, often influenced by their beliefs and perceptions. The Health Belief Model (HBM) offers a framework to understand these influences, highlighting how nurses’ attitudes toward eye care are shaped by their perceptions of patient severity, susceptibility to complications, perceived benefits and barriers to care, cues to action, and self-efficacy.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess eye care practices among adult intensive care unit nurses in public hospitals in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia and to identify factors influencing these practices based on the Health Belief Model.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 213 nurses working in adult ICUs using simple random sampling. Data were collected through a structured, self-administered questionnaire and an observation checklist utilizing Kobo Collect. The data were analyzed using SPSS. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to identify relationships between the constructs of the Health Belief Model and eye care practices.ResultsIn this study, 213 of the 222 respondents participated, resulting in a 96% response rate. Among the participants, 113 nurses (53.1%; 95% CI: 46.5–59.6) demonstrated a high likelihood of providing eye care, while 100 nurses (46.9%; 95% CI: 40.4–53.5) exhibited a lower likelihood based on constructs of the Health Belief Model. Additionally, 125 nurses (58.7%; 95% CI: 52.1–65.3) had inadequate eye care practices, while 133 (62.4%; 95% CI: 55.4–69) possessed adequate knowledge about eye care. Furthermore, 113 participants (53.1%; 95% CI: 46–60.1) held a favorable attitude toward eye care. The multivariable analysis identified several factors associated with eye care practices: monthly salary (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.1–5.7), educational level (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.06–0.8), knowledge of eye care (AOR = 2, 95% CI: 1.1–3.4), and availability of eye care equipment (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.5).Conclusion and recommendationThe study reveals that fewer than half of the nurses working in adult intensive care units in public hospitals in the Amhara region provide adequate eye care, despite a strong intention to do so. Key factors influencing eye care practices include monthly salary, knowledge level, educational qualifications, and the availability of necessary equipment. To improve eye care delivery, it is essential for relevant authorities to implement targeted training and educational initiatives for nurses, thereby enhancing their skills and knowledge in eye care practices.

Exploring determinants of vaccination status among pediatric populations in East Gojam, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

IntroductionVaccination is a critical public health intervention that significantly reduces morbidity and mortality among children. Despite its importance, vaccination coverage remains suboptimal in many regions, including East Gojam, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. This study investigated the sociodemographic, economic, and cultural determinants of vaccination status among pediatric populations in East Gojam.MethodsUsing a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 1,900 respondents, categorizing vaccination status as not vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or fully vaccinated. Multinomial logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of predictors such as child age, gender, parental education level, household income, geographic location, access to healthcare, trust in healthcare providers, sources of vaccination information, cultural beliefs, and perceived government support for vaccination.ResultsThe results revealed that higher parental education levels and urban residence positively influence vaccination status. Older children were less likely to be fully vaccinated, indicating a need for targeted outreach. Access to healthcare services and trust in healthcare providers significantly promoted vaccination, whereas negative cultural beliefs and misinformation adversely affected vaccination status. Perceived government support for vaccination was also a significant predictor.ConclusionThis study concludes that addressing these multifaceted determinants through educational programs, improved healthcare access, trust-building initiatives, accurate information dissemination, stronger governmental support, targeted outreach for older children, community engagement, and multisectoral collaboration can enhance vaccination coverage and improve public health outcomes in East Gojam and similar settings.

Performance Assessment of Diversion Head Work: A Case Study on Abegaz Small-Scale Irrigation Project, in Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Performance Assessment of Diversion Head Work: A Case Study on Abegaz Small-Scale Irrigation Project, in Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Woody species composition, structure and regeneration status of Alka forest Beyeda District, North Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Northern Ethiopia

BackgroundEthiopia's varied geography, from the Simien Mountains to the Great Rift Valley, creates unique microclimates that support an incredible range of plant species. However, forests are declining due to the expansion of farmlands, settlements and overgrazing. Therefore, there is a need for extensive assessments to inventory woody species composition, structure and regeneration status of the Alka forest.MethodsA reconnaissance survey was carried out in February 2021 to obtain a general understanding of the research area and vegetation. The vegetation sampling was carried out via a systematic sampling technique. A total of 40 main plots, each measuring 20 m × 20 m and spaced 100 m apart, were placed along the marked transects at 50 m intervals to collect vegetation data. Five 2 m × 2 m subplots were laid out to collect vegetation data on the seedlings and saplings. Trees and shrubs with a DBH greater than 2.5 cm at breast height or 1.3 m above ground were measured via diameter tape in each plot, and their heights were recorded. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed by using R statistical software version 3.4.0 to sort vegetation into vegetation community types.ResultsA total of 48 woody species within 37 families were identified. Among the total number of species, four were found to be endemic to Ethiopia. Fabaceae was the dominant family, followed by Asteraceae. Four types of plant communities were investigated in the Alka forest. Moreover, the densities of woody plant species for mature individuals, saplings and seedlings were 2556.875, 1633.125 and 1641.25 stem/ ha-1 respectively.This implies that the forest is categorized under fair regeneration status. Juniperus procera had the highest IVI value (24.24), followed by Hagenia abyssinica (12.073).ConclusionThe findings showed that the forest contain considerable numbers of woody plant composition in addition to endemic plant life. Families represented by only one species will be extinct from this forest if thorough conservation measures are not implemented. Through the government's "green legacy initiative," people will be encouraged to plant native tree species to lessen the number of natural forests in in situ conservation methods, and further investigations are needed to evaluate the soil seed bank in the Alka forest.

Prevalence of diarrheal and its associated factors among children aged under-five years in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Diarrhea is a major health problem in Ethiopia, and the Amhara Regional State is experiencing the highest prevalence rate of diarrhea. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the prevalence and risk factors attributed to diarrhea among children under-five in the Amhara Regional State. The study employed descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the main statistically significant associated factors of diarrhea using Stata version 14. The overall prevalence rate of experiencing diarrhea was 17.7% [95% CI: 15.4, 20.2] in the Amhara Regional State. The multivariable logistic regression model analysis indicated that the risk factors are fourth and above birth order [AOR = 2.95, 95% CI (1.483, 5.85)], gender of child (being male) [AOR = 1.66, 95% CI (1.144, 2.41)], no education level of mother’s [AOR = 4.7, 95% CI (1.01, 22.0)], being age of child 7–11 [AOR = 3.33, 95% CI (1.58, 7.01)] and 12–23 month [AOR = 2.17, 95% CI (1.11, 4.22)], mother’s age at 15–19 years [AOR = 12.2, 95% CI (2.986, 50.2)], mother’s age at 20–24 years [AOR = 6, 95% CI (1.758, 20.8)], and mother’s age at 25–29 years [AOR = 4.48, 95% CI (1.41, 14.2)], and five and greater than family size [AOR = 0.53; 95% CI (0.343, 0.84)] were statistically significant associated with a higher risk of diarrhea. The prevalence of diarrhea in the Amhara Regional State was higher than that at the national level. The study identified gender of a child, education level of the mother’s, birth order, family size, mother’s age, and child’s age as risk factors for diarrhea in children under-five.

Adverse drug reactions and its associated factors among geriatric hospitalized patients at selected comprehensive specialized hospitals of the Amhara Region, Ethiopia: a multicenter prospective cohort study

BackgroundAdverse drug reactions are more prevalent in geriatric patients and are frequently associated with a range of polypharmacy-related issues as well as some physiological aging-related alterations. These affect the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of drugs. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of ADRs and their contributing factors among geriatric patients admitted at Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals of the Amhara Region.MethodsA multicenter prospective cohort study was carried out from May 2023 to August 2023 on geriatric patients admitted to four randomly selected comprehensive hospitals in the Amhara region. We used logistic regression to find the factors influencing the occurrence of ADRs. A P value of less than 0.05 was deemed statistically significant.ResultsDuring the study’s follow-up period, 373 patients in total were included. An incidence rate of 31.10% (95% CI: 26.38–35.82) was obtained from the identification of 121 ADRs in total. The organ most frequently affected by ADRs was the gastrointestinal tract (28.92%), followed by the cardiovascular system (19.01%), and the drug class most often implicated in ADRs was antibiotics (21.49%), then anticoagulants (12.40%). ADRs were substantially linked to being overweight (P < 0.001), having been hospitalized in the previous six months (P = 0.000), and hyperpolypharmacy (p = 0.047). 93.39% of all ADRs received the interventions. 85.12% of the adverse drug reactions were successfully resolved.ConclusionsThis study found that over one-third of older people and individuals admitted to the hospital experienced ADRs. Overweight, hyperpolypharmacy, and patients who had previously been admitted during the preceding six months were significantly linked with the occurrence of ADRs. Improving the drug safety of elderly patients, particularly those who are admitted, should be a greater priority for healthcare professionals.

Prediction of acute respiratory infections using machine learning techniques in Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Many studies have shown that infectious diseases are responsible for the majority of deaths in children under five. Among these children, Acute Respiratory Infections is the most prevalent illness and cause of death worldwide. Acute respiratory infections continue to be the leading cause of death in developing countries, including Ethiopia. In order to predict the main factors contributing to acute respiratory infections in the Amhara regional state of Ethiopia, a machine learning technique was employed. This study utilized data from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey. Seven machine learning models, including logistic regression, random forests, decision trees, Gradient Boosting, support vector machines, Naïve Bayes, and K-nearest neighbors, were employed to forecast the factors influencing acute respiratory infections. The accuracy of each model was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and various metrics. Among the seven models used, the Random Forest algorithm demonstrated the highest accuracy in predicting acute respiratory infections, with an accuracy rate of 90.35% and Area under the Curve of 94.80%. This was followed by the Decision Tree model with an accuracy rate of 88.69%, K-nearest neighbors with 86.35%, and Gradient Boosting with 82.69%. The Random Forest algorithm also exhibited positive and negative predictive values of 92.22% and 88.83%, respectively. Several factors were identified as significantly associated with ARI among children under five in the Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. These factors, included families with a poorer wealth status (log odds of 0.18) compared to their counterparts, families with four to six children (log odds of 0.1) compared to families with fewer than three living children, children without a history of diarrhea (log odds of -0.08), mothers who had occupation(log odds of 0.06) compared mothers who didn’t have occupation, children under six months of age (log odds of -0.05) compared to children older than six months, mothers with no education (log odds of 0.04) compared to mothers with primary education or higher, rural residents (log odds of 0.03) compared to non-rural residents, families using wood as a cooking material (log odds of 0.03) compared to those using electricity. Through Shapley Additive exPlanations value analysis on the Random Forest algorithm, we have identified significant risk factors for acute respiratory infections among children in the Amhara regional state of Ethiopia. The study found that the family’s wealth index, the number of children in the household, the mother’s occupation, the mother’s educational level, the type of residence, and the fuel type used for cooking were all associated with acute respiratory infections. Additionally, the research emphasized the importance of children being free from diarrhea and living in households with fewer children as essential factors for improving children’s health outcomes in the Amhara regional state, Ethiopia.

Isolation and Characterization of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga hermonthica&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Seed-Bank Depleting Bacteria from &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Infested Sorghum Growing Areas of Ethiopia

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga hermonthica&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; is a very serios parasitic weed of (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Sorghum bicolor &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;L. Moench). It attack host plants by living as hemi-parasite and attaching small sucker root system to host plant. A study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of bacterial isolate obtained from soil samples collected from &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;infested sorghum growing fields in Amhara, Tigray and Oromia Regions to inhibit (deplete) the &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;seed bank. Surface sterilized and conditioned &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;seeds were buried in the soil by using teabag to determine germinated, viable and decayed seeds at different times after burial. A total of 44 isolates were isolated from germinated and decayed striga seeds and tested for their effect on germination and seed decay of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;seeds. Six isolates (GS29, GS32, GS34, GS39, GS42 and GS45) were stimulated 10.33, 9.0, 9.67, 8.33, 5.33 and 8.33 &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;seeds germination from the total of 35 seeds respectively in the absence of host plant synthetic stimulant. On the other hand four isolates (SD3, SD9, SD36 and SD46) significantly decayed &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;seeds at P&amp;lt;0.05 (21, 20, 21.33 and 21 seeds respectively) in order to reduce &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Striga&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; attack. Selected isolates were characterized by using biochemical tests, and three isolates were classified under the genus &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Pseudomonas&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; while the other three isolates were grouped under the genus &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Klebsiella.&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; The four isolates that showed seed decay were classified under the genus &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Bacillus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; morphologically.

Value chain analysis of wheat in the case of North Shewa Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia

Value chain analysis of wheat in the case of North Shewa Zone, Amhara region, Ethiopia

Demonstration of Local Honeybee Flora “Mentesie” (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Becium grandflorum&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;) Propagation Techniques in Wag - Himra Zone, Ethiopia

The demonstration of local honeybee flora &amp;quot;Mentesie&amp;quot; (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Becium grandiflorum&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;) propagation techniques was carried out over two rainy seasons in the Gazgibla district, Debreweyla watershed closure area of the Northeastern Amhara region. The shrub has numerous benefits for the community, including honey production, fuel use, and soil and water conservation. However, it has been gradually declining. To preserve these valuable shrubs, various propagation techniques were tested. The objectives of the experiment were to demonstrate the propagation techniques of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Becium grandiflorum&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; to beekeepers and to generate wider demand for its plantation among beekeepers and extension workers. The experiment compared two selected propagation techniques with local farmers’ traditional planting practices, under the guidance of forestry researchers. The treatments included seeds and cuttings. Seeds were collected from mature fruits, and cuttings were taken early in the morning from natural, mature, young, and healthy mother plants at a height of 40 cm during 2020/21. These materials were packed in perforated polyethylene bags. The average mean of flower numbers, branch numbers, and canopy cover for the enhanced propagation techniques (seedlings with pots) were 4107, 21.81, and 92.5, respectively. These values were higher than those for the comparative propagation technique, which had flower numbers of 2462, branch numbers of 19.4, and a canopy cover of 92.5. There were significant differences (p&amp;lt;0.05) among the propagation techniques in terms of canopy cover, height, number of flowers, and branches per plant. Farmers recognized the higher flower biomass, canopy cover, and potential for greater plant height of the enhanced techniques, which are beneficial for bee forage and soil and water conservation. Therefore, planting seedlings using pots were found to be the best method for the wider production of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;B. grandiflorum&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; in its natural growing areas.

Incidence of acute kidney injury and its predictors among neonates admitted at neonatal intensive care unit of, Northwest Ethiopia comprehensive specialized hospitals, 2023

BackgroundAcute kidney injury is an acute and reversible increment in serum creatinine (SCr) levels with a reduction in urine output oliguria, or anuria. Acute kidney injury is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide; it is a serious problem in low and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa such as Ethiopia. Moreover, there are few studies in developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and predictors of acute kidney injury in neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of some specialized hospitals in the Amhara region of northwestern Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted in the Northwest Amhara Region’s comprehensive specialized hospitals with 634 neonates from January 2020 to December 2022. Data were collected by reviewing patient charts using simple random sampling with a pretested checklist, entered using Epi-data 4.6, and analyzed using STATA 14. Median survival time, Kaplan–Meier survival curve, and log-rank test were calculated. Bivariable and multivariable Cox hazard models were used to determine the determinants of acute kidney injury. A hazard ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. Variables with p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsThe incidence of Acute Kidney Injury among Neonates admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was 14.9 per 1000 (95% CI: 12.5–17.7) with the proportion of acute kidney injury (20.19%) (95% CI: 17.23–23.50) neonates with sepsis (AHR: 2.59; 95%CI: 1.21–5.56), neonates with perinatal asphyxia [(AHR: 2.70; 95%CI: 1.29–5.65) were taking gentamicin drugs [(AHR = 1.74; 95%CI: 1.03–2.94], neonates were preterm [(AHR; 1.77: 95%CI: 1.05 -2.98], and neonatal-hyponatremia [(AHR: 2.14; 95%CI: (1.00 -4.9)] and hyperkalemia [(AHR: 2.64; 95 CI: (1.11- 6.2)] were statistically found to be significant predictors of acute kidney injury.ConclusionsThe incidence of acute kidney injury in neonates was high. Premature infants, neonates with sepsis, who suffered perinatal asphyxia, who received gentamicin drugs, whose sodium levels decreased and potassium levels increased were at higher risk of developing acute kidney injury. All concerned agencies should work to prevent acute kidney injury and pay special attention to multifactorial causes. Therefore, strategies need to be developed and/or strengthened to prevent the occurrence of acute kidney injury in infants with sepsis, neonates who suffered perinatal asphyxia, and preterm infants whose sodium levels decreased and potassium levels increased.

Evaluations of Grass Pea Relay Inter-Cropping with Wheat on Vertisol in Eastern Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Grass peas have been cultivated in Ethiopia for a long time; they are drought-tolerant and unaffected by excessive rainfall. This study evaluated the effectiveness of grass pea relay intercropping with wheat for better production and its effect on soil moisture and fertility improvement in the Jama district, northeastern Amhara, Ethiopia. The location is mainly dominated by vertisol, a black-to-gray clay with high swelling and shrinking character. The treatments were evaluated by arranging the randomized block design. At the tillering stage of wheat, planting grass peas on furrows and between rows with 30 cm spacing effectively contributes to soil fertility status and soil moisture. Grass pea is a legume crop that incorporates nitrogen and is also used as a cover crop that retains soil moisture. This type of planting technique is also efficient in the case of land utilization; a 1.9 ha sole cropping area would be required to produce the same yields as 1 ha of the intercropped system. Planting grass peas during the tillering stage of the wheat crop is recommended.