Towards Mainstreaming Environmental Impact Assessment into Housing Development Projects in Ethiopia: The Case of Koye-Feche Condominium Housing Development Project, Addis Ababa

Linking environmental impact assessment (EIA) and infrastructure development projects as a result of rapid urbanization reveals serious environmental problems in cities and towns of developing countries like Ethiopia. Ecological infrastructure is as vital as physical infrastructure for the functioning of the economy – a path that can meet both long-term economic and environmental imperatives. The city government of Addis Ababa has planned to address urban housing challenges strategically with the help of National Integrated Urban Housing Development Plan along with other plans. Koye-Feche Local Development and Neighborhood project is believed to have significant contribution for the realization of the vision of Addis Ababa Housing Agency. This study employed secondary and primary methods of data collection like focus group discussion, key informant interview, and field observations. The collected data were analyzed both qualitatively (narration and descriptions) and quantitatively (application of SPSS, ArcGIS, and ERDAS IMAGINE). The possible negative environmental impacts of the project identified were: land use change, evection of indigenous farmers, soil erosion, cutting of trees, degradation of soil resources,  health risk  to humans and animals, landslide, spread of malaria, fuel gas emission, air pollution, noise pollution, dust pollution, soil and water pollution, risk/injury to workers, soil compaction, disruption of natural water ways, ground and surface water pollution, spilling of grease, residual materials,  soil disturbance, and disturbance of the landscape, water harvesting infrastructure resulting in mosquito breeding and hazardous environment for children, traffic congestion in pick time, Solid waste, liquid waste, Increased urban heat island, and increased number of population. Appropriate mitigation measures are required to reduce the aforementioned possible negative impacts of condominium housing projects in Ethiopia. Keywords: Development; hazard; Housing; Impact; mitigation; planning; urba

Genetic Contributions To Thoracic Aortic Disease

AimsThoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections are significant yet under-recognized threats in cardiovascular health, often remaining undetected until catastrophic events occur. This study aims to explore the genetic landscape of thoracic aortic diseases, focusing on genetic mutations contributing to thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) and dissection. It also seeks to refine the size criteria for surgical intervention in TAA, aiding clinicians in decision-making and improving patient outcomes. MethodsThe study employed a comprehensive literature review, focusing on the genetic aspects of thoracic aortic diseases. In addition to a systematic MEDLINE search, the investigation used the Genomics England PanelApp to identify genes associated with TAA and dissection. This research builds on the work of Dr. John Elefteriades and the Yale Aortic Institute published in 2019 which incorporated updated size criteria for surgical interventions based on type of genetic mutation. ResultsThe investigation expands the genetic landscape understanding of TAA, identifying 68 genes with different levels of association through the Genomics England PanelApp. Among these, thirty-three genes have a strong association ( green designation), five are of moderate concern ( amber ), and thirty have a lesser-known impact ( red ). Additionally, the research proposes a shift in size criteria for surgical interventions, specifically a “left shift” in thresholds, particularly for genes related to Loeys-Dietz syndrome and others. ConclusionsThis study highlights the evolving genetic complexity in thoracic aortic diseases. Several new genetic variants with strong associations to TAA have been identified, necessitating updates in genetic screening panels. The research also emphasizes the change in size criteria for surgical intervention, advocating for a more proactive approach in managing TAAs. Future research should continue exploring genetic contributors, reevaluating genes with medium or weak associations, and refining intervention criteria based on non-size factors. This advanced genetic understanding of TAA and dissection offers a nuanced perspective, paving the way for improved patient management and outcomes in thoracic aortic diseases