Metema District Research Articles

Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment of Common Weed Species in West Gondar Sesame Growing Area, Ethiopia

Weeds compete with crops grown for resource limits such as water, nutrients, and light. Weed infestation is one of the major factors limiting sesame production, as its seedlings grow slowly during the first few weeks making it a weak competitor at earlier crop growth stages. Weed induced sesame yield reductions of up to 65 percent, and a need for a crucial weed-free duration of up to 50 days following planting. Weed surveys are useful for determining the occurrence and relative importance of weed species in crop production systems. Weed survey on a farm basis is needed to establish efficient weed management and decision making mechanisms and to evaluate weed control measures. Therefore this survey was conducted to assess qualitative and quantitative weed species in sesame growing areas of west Gondar, Ethiopia. Weed survey was conducted in 2012 at Metema and 2013 main cropping season at Metema, Tach Armachiho, and Mirab Armachiho district. data on weed species type and count were taken along the diagonal with 50cm x 50cm quadrate at a 15-meter interval at three points. Visual identification, manuals, photographs, leaflets, and books were used for identifying weed species. They conducted interviews with farmers, development agents, and district experts working in the region. Weed species compositions were analyzed by frequency, abundance, dominance, and similarity index. In the districts, 31common weed species or groups of species from 17 families were recorded. Ipomea cordofana Br., Grass spp’, Commelina benghalensis L. Andropogon abyssinicus (Fresen) R.Br., Boerhaavia erecta L., Corchorus olitorius L.kudra, Corchorus trilocularis L., Leucas martinicensis (Jacq) ait.f. and Ipomea triloba are the most prevalent, abundant, and important weeds in sesame fields in north Gondar. As to this on-farm and practical training on identification and demonstration management options should be given on the low land of north Gondar farmers.

Environmental Factors Associated with Larval Habitats of Anopheline Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Metema District, Northwestern Ethiopia.

Background:Malaria is one of the major public health concerns in Ethiopia. Control options available for the management of malaria, include case detection, personal protection and larval source management. Effective control of Anopheles larvae largely depends on understanding of the habitats of the vectors. The aims of this study were to identify the breeding habitats of mosquitoes and characterize the larval habitats in Gende Wuha Town in northwestern Ethiopia.Methods:Different aquatic habitats were sampled and characterized for anopheline larvae from November 2012 to June 2013.Results:In total, 2784 larvae of Anopheles mosquitoes were collected from various breeding habitats. Microscopic identification of the III and IV instars revealed the presence of seven Anopheles species. Of the Anopheles spp, Anopheles gambiae s.l. (80%) was the most predominant species in the study area. Spearman correlation coefficient results also determined that the density of An. gambiae s.l. increased significantly with habitat temperature (r= 0.346, p< 0.01). Significantly higher An. gambiae s.l. larvae were obtained in non-shaded habitats (z= −3.120, p< 0.05) when compared with shaded habitats.Conclusion:The current study demonstrated An. gambiae s.l., the principal malaria vector in the country, is the predominant species in the larval sampling habitats. It was also noted the importance of edge of stream as larva breeding habitats for this species during the dry season of the year. Therefore, attention should be given for this breeding habitat for control of the vector during dry season.

Effects of Inter and Intra Row Spacing on Yield and Yield Components of Soybean (Glycine max L.) Under Rainfed Condition in North western Ethiopia

The research is financed by Sesame Business Network (SBN) Project (Sponsoring information) Abstract The experiment was conducted in 2016/17 cropping season under rain fed condition in Metema and Tach Armachiho districts of the Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. The treatments consisted of a factorial combination of four levels of inter row spacing (40, 60, 80, 100 cm) and three levels of intra row spacing (5, 10, 15cm). The treatments were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The main effects of row and intra row spacings were significantly affecting days to 90% physiological maturity, number of branch/plants, biomass yield and grain yield/hectare. On the other hand, except harvesting index, all other parameters were not significantly influenced by the interaction effect of inter and intra row spacing. The highest biomass and grain yields were recorded at 40cm inter and 5 cm intra row spacing. Results of the economic analysis showed that the maximum net benefit was obtained in soybeans planted with 60 cm by 10 cm inter and intra row spacing, respectively. Thus, farmers in Metema and Tach Armachiho can use 60cm by 10cm inter and intra row spacing respectively for mung bean production. Keywords: Inter Row Spacing, Intra Row Spacing, Plant Density, Seed Yield DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/10-8-05 Publication date: April 30 th 2020

The Galabat-Metema cross-border onchocerciasis focus: The first coordinated interruption of onchocerciasis transmission in Africa.

BackgroundOnchocerciasis transmission across international borders is not uncommon, yet a coordinated cross border stops mass drug administration (MDA) decision has not been documented.Methods/Principle findingsThe Galabat-Metema focus involves neighboring districts on the border between Sudan and Ethiopia. Mass drug administration (MDA) was provided once and subsequently twice per year in this focus, with twice-per-year beginning in Ethiopia’s Metema subfocus in 2016 and in the Sudan’s Galabat subfocus in 2008. Ov16 ELISA-based serosurveys were conducted in 6072 children under 10 years of age in the Metema subfocus in 2014, and 3931 in the Galabat in 2015. Between 2014 and 2016, a total of 27,583 vector Simulium damnosum flies from Metema and 9,148 flies from Galabat were tested by pool screen PCR for Onchocerca volvulus O-150 DNA. Only 8 children were Ov16 seropositive (all in the Metema subfocus); all were negative by skin snip PCR. The upper limit of the 95% confidence interval (UCL) for Ov16 seropositive was <0.1% for the overall focus and 0.14 positive fly heads per 2000 (UCL = 0.39/2000). However, an entomological ‘hotspot’ was detected on the Wudi Gemzu river in Metema district. The hotspot was confirmed when 4 more positive fly pools were found on repeat testing in 2017 (1.04 L3/2000 flies (UCL = 2.26/2000). Information exchange between the two countries led to stopping MDA in a coordinated fashion in 2018, with the exception of the hotspot at Wudi Gemzu, where MDA with ivermectin was increased to every three months to hasten interruption of transmission.ConclusionCoordinated stop MDA decisions were made by Sudan and Ethiopia based on data satisfying the World Health Organization’s criteria for interruption of onchocerciasis transmission. Definitions of entomological ‘hotspots’ and buffer zones around the focus are proposed.

Effect of Seed Rate and Row Spacing on Yield and Yield Components of Upland Rice (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Oryza sativa&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; L.) in Metema, West Gondar, Ethiopia

Rice is among the most important commercial cereal crops that can be produced in North Gondar. However, its production is challenged by low yield mainly due to lack of appropriate agronomic practices and recommendations. Uses of appropriate seed rate and row spacing most importantly affect the productivity of rice. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of seed rate and row spacing on grain yield and yield components of upland rice. Factorial combinations of four seed rates (60, 80,100 and 120 kg ha-1) and three levels of row spacing (20, 25 and 30 cm) were laid out in RCBD with three replications using NERICA- 4 rice variety. The combine interaction effect of seed rate and row spacing was highly significant (P<0.01) on days to heading, days to maturity, number of total tiller per meter row length, thousand seed weight and grain yield, and significant (P<0.05) on plant height. The highest thousand seed weight (27.3 g) was recorded at seeding rate (80 kg ha-1and grow spacing of 30 cm but the lowest (17.1 g) was recorded on seed rate of 120 kg ha-1and row spacing of 25 cm. The highest grain yield (4148.8 kg ha-1) was obtained at interaction of 80 kg ha-1seed rate and 20cm row spacing. While the lowest grains yield (1826.4 kg ha-1) was obtained from the combination of 60 kg ha-1seed rate and 30cm row spacing. In conclusion, the results revealed that seed rate and row spacing increased grain yield of rice by positively affecting the important yield components of the rice. The result of economic analysis showed that the maximum net benefit was obtained at seed rate of 80 kg ha-1 and row spacing of 20 cm. Hence use of 80 kg ha-1 and 20 cm is promising for upland rice variety production under the rain fed condition at Metema district and similar agro ecologies.

Anopheles cinereus implicated as a vector of malaria transmission in the highlands of north-west Ethiopia

BackgroundTransmission of malaria in the highlands of Ethiopia is poorly understood and usually attributed to importation by mobile populations or local transmission by Anopheles arabiensis. To characterize and identify Anopheles species present in a highland area of northern Ethiopia, adult and larval collections were performed in Gondar town and the neighboring Senbet Debir village (Dembia district, > 2000 meters above sea level, masl), in addition to Bahir Dar town (capital of Amhara region) and Kumer Aftit village (Metema district, < 2000 masl).MethodsCDC-light traps were used to collect adult mosquitoes and larval collections were performed from rain pools for rearing into adults for species identification. Collections were made September-March 2016–2018. Adult mosquitoes were identified morphologically and a subset of randomly chosen specimens were identified to species by sequencing the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer region 2 (ITS2) and mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1).ResultsThe primary species of Anopheles identified at elevations higher than 2000 masl was An. cinereus, which was confirmed molecularly by ITS2 and cox1 sequencing. Interestingly, two unknown species were also sequenced, in addition to two specimens of An. pretoriensis. The species collected at sites with elevations less than 2000 masl (Bahir Dar town and Kumer Aftit village) was An. arabiensis. Three Plasmodium falciparum-positive specimens were identified molecularly as An. cinereus.ConclusionsThe presence of Plasmodium-positive An. cinereus in areas greater than 2000 masl incriminates this species as a potential vector contributing to non-peak malaria transmission in Ethiopian highland areas.

Post-vaccination herd immunity against peste des petits ruminants and inter-vaccination population turnover in small ruminant flocks in northwest Ethiopia

Vaccination is the main tool for control of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) because of the availability of effective and safe vaccines that provide long lasting protection. However vaccination campaigns may not always provide sufficient herd immunity needed to prevent disease outbreaks because of logistic problems with vaccination such as inappropriate cold chain and vaccine delivery methods, and the rapid population turnover of small ruminants. This study was carried out to assess post-vaccination herd immunity against PPR and inter-vaccination population turnover in small ruminant flocks in Metema district, northwest Ethiopia where frequent PPR outbreaks occur despite regular vaccination. A total of 412 serum samples were collected from selected small ruminants in 72 flocks (average flock size of 33.4 and standard deviation of 30) above three months of age in three kebeles immediately before a vaccination program. One month after the vaccination using freeze dried live attenuated vaccine, 359 serum samples were collected from randomly selected small ruminants in the same flocks. The collected serum samples were analyzed to determine the seropositivity using a monoclonal antibody-based C-ELISA. The pre-vaccination seropositivity of 72.3% (95% CI: 67.8–76.4) increased to 93.9% (95% CI: 90.9–95.9) post-vaccination (P < 0.001). The observed seropositivity following vaccination was above the recommended herd immunity threshold (80%) required to reduce the transmission of infection in the population sufficient to eliminate virus. A survey of sampled flocks six months post-sampling indicated only 68% of animals were still present in these flocks. This population turnover reduces the herd immunity to about 64% which is below the required threshold for control. The high level of herd immunity achieved post-vaccination indicates good vaccine quality, cold chain maintenance and effective vaccine delivery in the district’s vaccination campaigns. The decrease in herd immunity associated with population turnover and annual vaccination intervals represents a challenge to effective control and suggests changes to the timing or frequency of the vaccination is required.

How Can Participatory Forest Management Cooperatives be Successful in Forest Resources Conservation? An Evidence From Ethiopia

ABSTRACT In many parts of the world, community-based approaches to forest management have been evolving after recognizing that the top-down approach impedes conserving forests effectively. In Ethiopia also, local communities have been involved in participatory forest management (PFM) arrangements for better conservation of forest resources. However, the achievements in improving forest conservation outcomes have been mixed, while some PFMs are successful, others are not. Using data collected from 42 PFM cooperatives from Metema and Quara districts in Amhara dry forest region of Ethiopia, this study seeks to examine the variables that explain the variations in the performances of PFM cooperatives in forest conservation. The study has found that the performance of the PFM cooperatives depends on the key attributes of users, physical resources, and institutions and these attributes explain best for the success of PFMs. Therefore, the study suggests that these attributes along with the external factors like government policy must be given due importance while designing PFM arrangement. Moreover, just to highlight the impact of the external factors, the government policy like the resettlement program must be reconsidered; while the expansion of trade and infrastructure must be encouraged in order to strengthen the performance of PFMs and achieve forest conservation.

Spatial clustering and socio-demographic determinants of HIV infection in Ethiopia, 2015–2017

BackgroundAmhara Region has the largest at-risk population in Ethiopia, with widespread traditional practices that are likely to increase transmission of HIV. However, the identification and characterization of HIV hotspots within this region have not been undertaken. This study aimed to explore and describe the geographical pattern of HIV infection using notification data in Amhara Region, Ethiopia. MethodsData on HIV infection at the district level were obtained from the Amhara Regional Health Bureau. A Bayesian conditional autoregressive (CAR) model was used to explore the association between HIV infection and socio-demographic variables in OpenBUGS. ResultsA total of 35 210 new HIV cases were reported during 2015–2017 in Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Metema and Mirab Armacho districts were found to be hotspots throughout the study period. There was a decrease in HIV infection in 2016 (odds ratio 0.77, 95% credible interval (CrI) 0.72–0.82) and 2017 (odds ratio 0.71, 95% CrI 0.60–0.76) as compared with HIV infection in 2015. HIV infection increased by 1.004 (95% CrI 1.001–1.008) and 1.47 (95% CrI 1.11–3.59) for a one-unit increase in the proportion of the population who had never attended school and migrants, respectively. ConclusionsThis study identified spatial clustering of HIV infection in Amhara Region, with a slight reduction in the annual infection rates from 2015 to 2017. The proportion of the population who were migrants or who had a low educational status was associated with a high risk of infection. Access to HIV counselling and the promotion of condom utilization, integrated with other health care services, targeting those with a lower level of education and seasonal migrants, are important strategies for the prevention of new HIV infections.

Assessment of Sesame Bacterial Blight (Xanthomonas Campestris Pv. Sesami) on Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in North Gondar, Ethiopia

Sesame is one of the important oil crops in Ethiopia for the international market while its production has challenged by lack of appropriate agronomic practices, weather uncertainties, weeds, insects and diseases outbreaks. Bacterial leaf blight caused by Xanthomonas campestris PV. sesami is the most common and inflicts heavy qualitative and quantitative losses. The objectives of the present study were to assess bacterial blight incidence, severity and its association with agronomic practices in north Gondar Ethiopia. A Field survey was conducted in Metema and Mirab Armachiho in 2014 cropping season at flowering and fruiting growth stages. A total of 80 fields were assessed for the disease assessment from both large and small-scale farmers. Data on prevalence, incidence, severity and, management practices have been recorded. All surveyed fields were infected both at flowering and fruiting stage of the crop. Mean incidence over the two districts varied from 78% at Metema to 96.5% at Mirab Armachiho. The minimum mean severity (6.1%) has been recorded in Metema district and, the highest mean severity (76.9%) has been recorded at Mirab Armachiho. The association of independent variables with bacterial blight incidence and severity were varied. The district, variety, growth stage, altitude, slope, crop density, previous crop, soil type, and weed density variables have significantly associated with bacterial blight incidence. Variables producer and sowing date were non-significant as a single predictor in the logistic regression model. Similarly, all the variables were significantly associated with bacterial blight severity. &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Effect of inter- and intra-row spacing on yield and yield components of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) under rain-fed condition at Metema District, northwestern Ethiopia

BackgroundThe study was conducted in 2017 main cropping season at two locations in North Gondar Zone, Ethiopia, to determine the optimum inter- and intra-row spacing of mung bean for maximum yield and yield components. The experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design with three replications in a factorial arrangement of four inter-row (20, 30, 40 and 50 cm) and three intra-row (5, 10 and 15 cm) spacing using mung bean variety Rasa (N-26).ResultsSignificant interaction effect of inter- and intra-row spacing was observed for days to maturity, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, grain yield, harvest index, days to flowering, plant height and aboveground dry biomass yield. The highest grain yield (1882.67 kg ha−1) was obtained at interaction of 40 × 10 cm spacing, while the lowest (1367.8 kg ha−1) was obtained from 20 × 5 cm spacing. However, the result of economic analysis showed that the maximum net benefit was obtained at spacing of 40 × 15 cm.ConclusionsBased on agronomic performance and economic analysis, use of 40 × 15 cm is promising for mung bean production in Metema District and similar agroecologies.

Some aspects of entomological determinants of Phlebotomus orientalis in highland and lowland visceral leishmaniasis foci in northwestern Ethiopia.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is one of the major public health problems in northwest Ethiopia, mainly in Libo-Kemkem and Metema districts, where Phlebotomus orientalis is the most probable vector of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine the physiological age, host preference and vectorial potential of P. orientalis in the highland and lowland foci of the region. Sand flies were collected using CDC light traps between May 2011 and April 2012 in Libo-Kemkem and October 2012 and September 2013 in Metema from household compounds, farm field and mixed forest. Females belonging to Phlebotomus were dissected for physiological age determination and Leishmania detection and isolation. Leishmania infections in sand flies were investigated using molecular methods. Freshly fed Phlebotomus females were tested to identify blood meal sources using PCR-RLB and ELISA. A total of 1149 (936 from Libo-Kemkem and 213 from Metema) blood unfed female P. orientalis were dissected for age determination. The parity rate was 45.6% and 66.2% in Libo-Kemkem and Metema, respectively. None of 798 female P. orientalis dissected (578 from Libo-Kemkem and 220 from Metema) was infected with Leishmania parasites. A total of 347 P. orientalis specimens collected from Libo-Kemkem were processed using PCR, of which 10 (2.8%) specimens were found with DNA of Leishmania spp. Of a total 491 freshly fed female P. orientalis analyzed for blood meal origins by RLB-PCR and ELISA, 57.6% (67.8% from Libo-Kemkem and 49.8% from Metema) were found to contain bovine blood while 4.9% (3.7% from Libo-Kemkem and 5.7% from Metema) were of human blood. In conclusion, the present study showed parity difference between the two populations of P. orientalis and that both populations have strong zoophilic behavior. Based on the presented evidences, the species is strongly implicated as a vector of kala-azar in both areas. Therefore, vector control should be a component of a strategy to manage visceral leishmaniasis in both study areas.

Comparative study on the nocturnal activity of phlebotomine sand flies in a highland and lowland foci of visceral leishmaniasis in north-western Ethiopia with special reference to Phlebotomus orientalis

BackgroundLeishmania donovani, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis (VL), is most probably vectored by Phlebotomus orientalis in north-western Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the nocturnal activity patterns of Ph. orientalis in VL endemic foci of Libo-Kemkem (highland) and Metema (lowland) districts of north-western Ethiopia.MethodsSampling of sand flies was conducted bimonthly from January-May 2012 in the highland and from March-June 2013 in the lowland. Sand flies were sampled using two CDC light traps placed in compounds occupied by both cattle and humans. Sampling of sand flies started at 18:00 h and ended at 06:00 h. Every hour, a cage was replaced by another cage.ResultsIn total, 9479 nocturnally active sand flies were collected from both study areas. Six Phlebotomus species (Ph. orientalis, Ph. duboscqi, Ph. papatasi, Ph. bergeroti, Ph. rodhaini and Ph. martini) and several Sergentomyia spp. were identified. In both areas, of the six Phlebotomus spp., Ph. orientalis was the preponderate. In the highland, the hourly activity pattern of Ph. orientalis females was higher before midnight with a peak in density between 22:00–23:00 h, whereas in the lowland after midnight between 03:00–04:00 h.ConclusionsThe present study showed that Ph. orientalis females exhibited different nocturnal activity patterns with a peak in the early part of the night in the highland and in the latter part of the night in the lowland areas. As the risk of acquiring L. donovani infections vary in the two areas, appropriate control strategies should be developed according to the activity of Ph. orientalis in the respective areas.

Genecological zones and selection criteria for natural forest populations for conservation: the case of Boswellia papyrifera in Ethiopia

Rapid changes in land-use in the Combretum–Terminalia woodlands of northwestern Ethiopia are mainly due to the increases in commercial farming and immigration. We used integrated ecological and social data collection techniques, including subdivision of the vegetation zone, vegetation survey, focus group discussions and key informant interviews, to identify genecological zones and set criteria for selection of viable populations of Boswellia papyrifera (Del.) Hochst in Ethiopia for conservation. Interviews of senior experts were supported with a rating method and involved 43 respondents and focused on identifying and weighting criteria and indicators of selection in a participatory way to prioritize populations for conservation. Using mean annual rainfall data, we reclassified the Combretum–Terminalia woodland vegetation region into three moisture zones (wet, moist and dry), and designated them as genecological zones for B. papyrifera conservation. A total of 35 woody species were identified at Lemlem Terara site in Metema district, and the Shannon diversity index and evenness were 2.01 and of 0.62, respectively. There were 405 adult trees, and 10 saplings and 3314 seedlings per ha. The trees were medium-sized with overall mean diameter at breast height (dbh) of 16.9 (±9.5) cm. Seedling recruitment was poor due to grazing, crop production and fire incidences. Through a multi-criteria decision analysis, five criteria and 20 quantitative indicators were identified and weighted to prioritize populations for conservation. These criteria in their descending order of importance are (1) forest ecosystem health and vitality, (2) forest cover and population structure of B. papyrifera, (3) productive function of the forest, (4) biological diversity in the forest, and (5) socioeconomic benefits of the forest to communities. Multivariate tests in the general linear model revealed significant differences among researchers and nonresearchers in rating the criteria and indicators, but not among foresters and nonforesters. Hence, participatory multi-criteria decision analysis should involve people from various institutions to rectify decisions on conservation of the species. Careful evaluation of the investment policy environment and engaging those government bodies that are responsible to allocate the dry forests for commercial farming is recommended before the proposed criteria are applied to select populations for conservation, thus ensuring subsequent use of the outcomes of such exercises and better reconciling conservation and agricultural production increment goals.

Spatial patterns of multidrug resistant tuberculosis and relationships to socio-economic, demographic and household factors in northwest Ethiopia.

BackgroundUnderstanding the geographical distribution of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in high TB burden countries such as Ethiopia is crucial for effective control of TB epidemics in these countries, and thus globally. We present the first spatial analysis of multidrug resistant tuberculosis, and its relationship to socio-economic, demographic and household factors in northwest Ethiopia.MethodsAn ecological study was conducted using data on patients diagnosed with MDR-TB at the University of Gondar Hospital MDR-TB treatment centre, for the period 2010 to 2015. District level population data were extracted from the Ethiopia National and Regional Census Report. Spatial autocorrelation was explored using Moran’s I statistic, Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA), and the Getis-Ord statistics. A multivariate Poisson regression model was developed with a conditional autoregressive (CAR) prior structure, and with posterior parameters estimated using a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation approach with Gibbs sampling, in WinBUGS.ResultsA total of 264 MDR-TB patients were included in the analysis. The overall crude incidence rate of MDR-TB for the six-year period was 3.0 cases per 100,000 population. The highest incidence rate was observed in Metema (21 cases per 100,000 population) and Humera (18 cases per 100,000 population) districts; whereas nine districts had zero cases. Spatial clustering of MDR-TB was observed in districts located in the Ethiopia-Sudan and Ethiopia-Eritrea border regions, where large numbers of seasonal migrants live. Spatial clustering of MDR-TB was positively associated with urbanization (RR: 1.02; 95%CI: 1.01, 1.04) and the percentage of men (RR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.26, 1.99) in the districts; after accounting for these factors there was no residual spatial clustering.ConclusionSpatial clustering of MDR-TB, fully explained by demographic factors (urbanization and percent male), was detected in the border regions of northwest Ethiopia, in locations where seasonal migrants live and work. Cross-border initiatives including options for mobile TB treatment and follow up are important for the effective control of MDR-TB in the region.

Open-label trial on efficacy of artemether/lumefantrine against the uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Metema district, Northwestern Ethiopia.

PurposeFollowing the increased Plasmodium falciparum resistance to chloroquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine, Ethiopia adopted artemether/lumefantrine (AL) as the first-line treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum in 2004. According to the recommendation of the World Health Organization, this study was carried out for regular monitoring of the efficacy of AL in treating the uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria in Metema district, Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia.Patients and methodsThis is a one-arm prospective 28-day in vivo therapeutic efficacy study among the uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria patients aged 6 months and older. The study was conducted from October 2014 to January 2015, based on the revised World Health Organization protocol of 2009 for surveillance of antimalarial drug therapeutic efficacy study. Standard six-dose regimen of AL was given twice daily for 3 days, and then the treatment outcomes were assessed on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, and any other unscheduled day for emergency cases.ResultsThere were 91 study subjects enrolled in this study, of whom 80 study subjects completed the full follow-up schedules and showed adequate clinical and parasitological responses on day 28, with no major adverse event. Per protocol analysis, the unadjusted cure rate of Coartem® was 98.8% (95% confidence interval: 93.3%–100%) in the study area. Recurrence of one P. falciparum case was detected on day 28, with a late parasitological failure rate of 1.2%. No early treatment failure occurred. Complete parasite and fever clearance was observed on day 3. Gametocyte carriage was 4.4% at enrollment that cleared on day 21. Although the difference is statistically not significant, a slight increase in the level of mean hemoglobin from baseline to day 28 was observed.ConclusionThe study showed high efficacy and tolerability of Coartem® against uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria, suggesting the continuation as a first-line drug in the study district. However, regular monitoring of the therapeutic efficacy of the drug, possibly with plasma drug-level measurement, is critical among the mobile border population.

Determination of Growth Rate and Age Structure of &lt;i&gt;Boswellia papyrifera&lt;/i&gt; from Tree Ring Analysis: Implications for Sustainable Harvest Scheduling

Boswellia papyrifera is a multipurpose deciduous species that grows in Combretum – Terminalia deciduous woodlands of Ethiopia. It is widely known for its commercial frankincense production. The B. papyrifera woodland is under a problematic state of population decline due to heavy encroachment and unsustainable tapping. To sustainably manage such a sensitive ecosystem needs exact knowledge of growth rates and age structure of trees where such information on tropical trees under natural condition is rather poor. In this study growth rate and age of B. papyrifera was determined from tree ring analysis. The study was carried out in Lemlem Terara, Metema district, Ethiopia. The mean annual diameter growth rate of B. papyrifera derived from the mean ring-width is 2.32mm and varies among sample trees. All sampled trees showed a comparable general growth trend which can be divided into three phases – i) good growth in the beginning, ii) phase with depression in middle and iii) increase in ring width. The average age of B. papyrifera trees growing in the study site is estimated to be about 75 years. Although there is strong correlation between diameter of a tree and age, the result from this study highlighted that age-size relations should be used cautiously as the diameter may not reflect the true age. The result from this study is important input to develop strategic plan for the species regarding tapping frequency and intensity as per the annual increment of the species. For further dendrochronological studies of the species, it is recommended to take samples from different size classes and slope gradients for better and reliable results. In future, the use of tree ring analysis as a tool to understand growth dynamics and age structure of trees species, and their response to climate variability should be strengthen in Ethiopian. Keywords: Boswellia papyrifera, Annual growth rings, Diameter growth rate, Age structure, Ethiopia.

Comparison of Partec Rapid Malaria Test with Conventional Light Microscopy for Diagnosis of Malaria in Northwest Ethiopia.

Background. Laboratory diagnosis of malaria is the key for effective disease management. Diagnosis of malaria infection requires rapid, sensitive, and specific test methods with an affordable cost. This study was aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of Partec rapid malaria test with reference to light microscopy for the diagnosis of malaria in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods. A total of 180 febrile patients were tested for malaria using Giemsa stain microscopy and Partec rapid malaria test from June to July 2013 at Gendewuha health centers, Metema district. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical software. Odds ratio with 95% CI was calculated. Result. The sensitivity and specificity of Partec rapid malaria test were 93.8% (95% CI = 87.1%–100%) and 87.9% (95% CI = 79.7%–96.1%), respectively, while the positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 6.4% (95% CI = 77.2%–95.5%) and 94.6% (95% CI = 88.7%–100%), respectively. There was also an excellent agreement between two tests with Kappa value of 0.811 (95% CI = 0.625–0.996). Conclusion. Partec rapid malaria test showed good sensitivity and specificity with an excellent agreement to the reference light microscopy. Therefore PT can be considered as alternative diagnostic tools in malaria endemic areas.

Multidrug resistant tuberculosis: prevalence and risk factors in districts of metema and west armachiho, Northwest Ethiopia.

BackgroundMulti drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is an emerging challenge for TB control programs globally. According to World health organization, 2012 report Ethiopia stands 15th out of the 27 high priority countries in the world and 3rd in Africa. Updated knowledge of the magnitude of MDR-TB is so substantial to allocate resources, and to address prevention and control measures. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of MDR-TB and associated risk factors in West Armachiho and Metema districts of North Gondar.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in West Armachiho and Metema districts between February 01 and June 25, 2014. A total of 124 consecutive smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients were included in the study. Socio-demographic and possible risk factor data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Drug susceptibility testing was first performed for rifampicin using GeneXpert MTB/RIF. For those rifampicin resistant strains, drug susceptibility testing was performed for both isoniazid and rifampicin to identify MDR-TB using the proportional method on LJ media. Data were analyzed using statistical Package SPSS version 20; binary logistic regression was used to assess the association. P-values < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.ResultsOf 124 smear-positive pulmonary TB patients, 117 (94.4 %) were susceptible to Rifampicin, while 7 (5.7 %) were confirmed to be resistant to Rifampicin and Isoniazid. The overall prevalence of MDR-TB was 5.7 % (2.3 % among new cases and 13.9 % among previously treated cases). History of previous treatment (OR = 7, P = 0.025) was significantly associated risk factor for MDR-TB.ConclusionThe overall prevalence of MDR-TB was 5.7 % among cases at five health centers and a history of previous treatment was found to be a risk factor for being infected by an MDR-TB strain. Therefore, maximizing early case detection and treatment, strengthening TB infection control activities and proper implementation of DOTS are recommended to reduce the burden of MDR-TB.

Environmental and host-related determinants of tuberculosis in Metema district, north-west Ethiopia.

BackgroundEach year, one third of the world’s population is estimated to be infected with tuberculosis (TB). Globally in 2011, there were an estimated 8.7 million TB cases that resulted in 1.4 million deaths. In Ethiopia, TB is the leading cause of morbidity and the third most common cause of hospital admission. The aim of this study is to assess environmental and host-related determinants of TB in Metema district, north-west Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based unmatched case-control study was conducted from March 12 to April 5, 2013. The study population included 655 subjects (218 cases and 437 controls in a ratio of 1:2). Cases were TB patients selected from a total of 475 cases registered and treated from March 2012 to February 2013 at the Metema District Hospital DOTS (direct observation therapy, short-course) clinic and selected randomly using a lottery method. Controls were people who had had no productive cough for at least 2 weeks previously and were selected from the community.ResultsA total of 655 respondents (218 cases and 437 controls) participated in the study. In multivariate analysis, being illiterate (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.31–5.76), households containing more than four family members (AOR 3.09, 95% CI 2.07–4.61), living space <4 m2 per person (AOR 3.11, 95% CI 2.09–4.63), a nonseparated kitchen (AOR 3.27, 95% CI 1.99–5.35), history of contact with a TB patient (AOR 2.05, 95% CI 1.35–3.12), a house with no ceiling (AOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.07–2.21), and absence of windows (AOR 4.42, 95% CI 2.46–7.95) were independently associated with the development of TB.ConclusionThis study identified that the number of family members in the household, educational status, room space per person, history of contact with a TB patient, availability and number of windows, location of kitchen facilities within the house, and whether or not the house had a ceiling were independently associated with contracting TB. Every community should construct houses with the kitchen separated from the main living room, and include a ceiling and more than one window. Cigarette smoking should be avoided since this also contributed to the risk of transmission of TB. Further research focusing on coinfection with human immunodeficiency virus, helminth burden, and malnutrition is important for the control and prevention of TB.