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BACKGROUND: Salt is an affordable commodity and has wide coverage regardless of economic and social status and, hence, could be suitable vehicle for multiple micronutrient fortification. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to simulate the contribution folic acid and zinc fortification of iodized salt to nutrient intake among the Ethiopian population. METHODS: The 2013 Ethiopian National Food Consumption Survey and various food composition tables were used to estimate baseline individual-level micronutrient intake. Usual intake was estimated using the Simulating Intake of Micronutrients for Policy Learning and Engagement macro tool. Discretionary salt consumption was calculated from total salt intake estimated using urinary sodium excretion. Fortificant addition rates were set to obtain maximum nutrient intake while simultaneously constraining that population with intake above the tolerable upper intake level to

Abstract A pot experiment was carried out in a shade house at Hawassa University in 2023 to evaluate the effects of rates of domestic sludge (0, 10, and 20 t/ha) in combination with three levels of diammonium phosphate (0, 50 and 100 kg/ha). The treatments were executed in a pot with soil capacity of 6 kg having 9 treatments each replicated three times and arranged in a completely randomized design. The results showed that yield and yield related parameters of Haricot bean showed a positive response to domestic sludge, diammonium phosphate fertilizer rates and their interactions. The interaction effects significantly affected days to flowering and days to maturity. The interaction of domestic sludge and diammonium phosphate significantly affected the entire yield and yield related parameters assessed in this study. The maximum number of pods per plant (19) was recorded from the application of 20 t/ha domestic sludge + 0 kg diammonium phosphate with statistically similar result to most the treatments while the minimum was recorded from the control. Compared to the control, application of 20 t/ha domestic sludge + 0 kg diammonium phosphate increased the number of pods per plant by 21.25%. The maximum (28.24 g) grain yield per plant was obtained from application of 10 t/ha domestic sludge + 100 kg diammonium phosphate while the lowest (15.99 g) was obtained from the control. As compared to the control, the application of 10 t/ha domestic sludge + 100 kg diammonium phosphate increased the grain yield by 76.61%. In conclusion, based on the results of the current study, domestic sludge could be considered for use either alone or in combination with diammonium phosphate fertilizer in haricot bean production to increase the productivity of the crop. Application of 10 t/ha domestic sludge + 100 kg diammonium phosphate surpassed the other combination of treatments and therefore could be recommended as the best combination for use. The domestic sludge application caused significant changes in soil macro-element content especially phosphorus, organic carbon, and total nitrogen, improved soil physical and chemical contents of the soil. In addition, domestic sludge can be used as an alternative to chemical fertilizers whose costs are escalating beyond the purchasing powers of the crop producers of smallholders.

Abstract Background To ensure fair access to TB screening, early diagnosis of TB infections, and timely starting of appropriate treatment, mobile technology tools provide convenience and feasibility for communities with limited infrastructure. This study aimed to assess the intention to use mobile-based TB screening among HIV patients in Debre Tabor Town Public health facilities, in Ethiopia. Method A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 423 HIV patients. Data was collected from May 23 to July 11, 2022, through the use of an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Epi-data 4.6 was utilized for data entry, and analysis was performed using Stata 14. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to assess factors associated with the outcome variable. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result Around 70.7% of HIV patients indicated their intention to use mobile phone-based TB screening services. being employed, (AOR = 2.93; 95% CI: 1.35–6.34), experience reading received text messages (AOR = 2.81; 95% CI: 1.05–7.49), perceived usefulness (AOR = 7.29; 95% CI: 4.00 -13.31), perceived ease of use (AOR = 2.15; 95% CI: 1.17–3.95) clients having clinical follow-ups at the hospital (AOR = 3.03; 95% CI: 1.63–5.62) are significantly associated with intention to use mobile phone-based TB screening. Conclusion In conclusion, approximately 70.7% of HIV clients intend to use mobile phone-based TB screening services, which is higher compared to previous studies. Factors such as employment status, experience reading received text messages, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and having clinical follow-ups at a hospital were found to be significantly associated with the intention to use mobile phone-based TB screening. Healthcare providers, mobile health developers, and policymakers should take into account these factors when developing and deploying mobile phone-based TB screening initiatives.

Abstract Livelihood diversification is a set of activities that households engage in to generate revenue, and sustain life, or maximize financial benefit. This study examined the impact of rural-urban connectivity on household income diversification into farm and non-farm businesses, as well as the underlying driving factors in Robe Town’s hinterland, Bale Zone, Southeastern Ethiopia. Structured survey questions, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 260 samples were taken, representing 5% of households in hinterland villages within a 20-kilometre radius. Both multiple linear regression and descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze the data. According to the descriptive statistics, 40% of the 260 households generated income from non-farm sources. The data also showed that most households (84.3%) earned their income from agricultural activities. It was further revealed that income generated from non-farm businesses accounted for 16.3% of the total household income share. The average Simpson Diversity Index (SDI) for household livelihood income source diversification was 0.5087, indicating a modest level of livelihood diversity. In the hinterland, 21.9% of households have less diverse income sources, while 58.5% and 19.6% have moderately and highly diverse income sources, respectively. Landholding size, education level, irrigation use, harvesting of forest products, non-farm activities, Tropical Livestock Unit (TLU), farm commercialization, and rural-urban linkages are statistically significant drivers of farm households’ livelihood diversification (P

Urban land use plans (ULUPs) contribute to the efficient use of resources for sustainable urban development. However, the metered contribution of Bahir Dar’s ULUPs to the efficient use of resources has not yet been known. Bahir Dar is the capital of the Amhara Region and a scenic city on the southern shore of Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake and the source of the Blue Nile. It attracts many visitors from inside and outside the country. This study evaluates the effectiveness of ULUPs in Bahir Dar to achieve efficient use of resources such as water, energy, and food. Thus, the study developed criteria to assess the effectiveness of ULUPs based on the global indicator framework for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The results show that its ULUPs were not resource efficient in terms of food production, water quality and yield, and transport energy usage.

Abstract Background Neonatal health is one of the targets for the sustainable development goals (SDGs) that aim to reduce neonatal mortality to at least as low as 12 per 1 000 live births in 2030. However, the world is not on track to achieve this target. The problem has worsened in many low-income countries, including Ethiopia, due to a fragile health system, as well as health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, conflict, food insecurity and climate change. According to the Mini Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey, neonatal mortality is unacceptably high in Ethiopia in general, and in Amhara region in particular. Despite these facts, there is a paucity of information on the quality of neonatal health service provision in comprehensive specialized hospitals in Amhara region. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the quality of neonatal health services in terms of outcome (neonatal mortality) and its causes in comprehensive specialized hospitals in Amhara region. Methods A multi-center retrospective study was conducted (from September 1–30/2022) on 315 neonates in four comprehensive hospitals with chart review. Data were collected through death audit with standardized neonatal death audit tool. Data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 and exported to SPSS 20 for analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to describe and summarize the data in an informative manner. Results From 315 neonatal deaths, about two-thirds, 205 (65.1%), were from rural areas. Nearly half, 151 (48%), of the mothers had complications and delivered outside a health facility. About 36 (11.4%), 45 (14.3%), and 21 (6.7%) neonates’ mothers had 1st, 2nd, and 3rd delays, respectively. About 59 (19%) of mothers had membrane rupture before the onset of labor and 23 (7.3%) had meconium-stained liquor. Almost three-fourths, 226 (71.7%), of the deaths were low birth weight (

BackgroundPatients with chronic illnesses need to take care of themselves and seek ongoing medical attention. By using technology, telemonitoring can minimize hospitalization and care costs, while increasing professional productivity, providing constant medical attention and enhancing patient self-care management. Despite all these advantages, nothing is known regarding the intentions of Ethiopian professionals and nurses to adopt telemonitoring technologies. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the telemonitoring intention of Ethiopian professionals and nurses, as well as the factors related to it.MethodsA total of 781 randomly chosen nurses and physicians who worked at public hospitals in Bahir Dar City, northwest Ethiopia, participated in a cross-sectional survey. To give everyone an opportunity, the sample size was distributed equitably among the hospitals and the profession according to staffing numbers. The sample was obtained using a simple random sampling technique. Data were gathered by skilled data collectors utilizing a self-administered questionnaire. For additional cleaning and descriptive statistical analysis, the data were imported into EpiData version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Analysis of Moment Structure version 23 structural equation modeling was used to ascertain the degree of the association between the variables.ResultThe response rate was 732/781 (93.7%), with 55.7% (408/732) of the participants being men and two-thirds (67.6%, 495/732) being nurses. About 55.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 52.3–59.6] of respondents intended to use telemonitoring. The desire to employ telemonitoring is positively impacted by performance expectancy (β = 0.375, 95% CI: 0.258–0.494), effort expectancy (β = 0.158, 95% CI: 0.058–0.252), facilitating condition (β = 0.255, 95% CI: 0.144–0.368), and habit (β = 0.147, 95% CI: 0.059–0.233). Age and gender positively affected the link between effort expectancy and intention to employ telemonitoring. It was discovered that being young and male has a beneficial relationship impact. Age positively moderated the association between the intention to use telemonitoring and the facilitating conditions, and adults were strongly linked with the relationship.ConclusionIn Bahir Dar City public hospitals, over half of the doctors and nurses have the intention to use telemonitoring. Predictive indicators of intention to utilize telemonitoring that were statistically significant were performance expectancy, effort expectancy, facilitating condition, and habit.

Introduction: Small bowel volvulus occurs when a section of the small bowel rotates abnormally around its mesentery. Small bowel volvulus due to Ascaris infestation is a rare surgical occurrence. Case presentation: A 4-year-old boy from rural Ethiopia was brought to our pediatric emergency department with a four-day history of worsening abdominal pain, distension, and multiple episodes of bilious vomiting. He had a history of passing worms per rectum. On physical exam he was tachycardic, febrile, and had a distended, tender abdomen with guarding and rigidity. A plain abdominal X-ray showed multiple air-fluid levels and dilated bowel loops, suggestive of a small bowel obstruction. He was taken emergently to the operating room for an exploratory laparotomy. We found a volvulized partially necrotic segment of small intestine, 40 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. The volvulized bowel was filled with worms. We devolvulized the bowel manually, did an enterotomy to remove the worms, resected 10 cm of necrotic bowel, and did an end-to-end anastomosis. On the 4th postoperative day, he exhibited signs of an anastomotic leak and was taken back to the operating room. We found no leak but could palpate more intraluminal Ascaris worms. We did a resection of a short segment of the ileum, removed all palpable Ascaris and did a re-anastomosis. He had an uneventful recovery following the second operation. Once he resumed bowel function, he received mebendazole 100 mg twice daily for 3 days. A second round of treatment was given 6 weeks later. Conclusion: Patients with intestinal Ascaris infestation carry a risk of developing small bowel volvulus and should therefore be closely monitored for that while they receive medical treatment. In the event of a volvulus, early intervention is critical to optimize outcomes.

This study aimed to enhance the existing vehicle’s structural reaction to a frontal and side impact collision. Energy-absorbing parts, a sturdy frame design, and enhanced crash performance are used to produce improvements based on the outcomes of the current model. When conducting the analysis, 3D modeling is done using CATIA, and FEM analysis is done using LS-DYNA. After adjustment, the ability to stabilize the momentum, the impact force during a crash, and the relation between internal energy and deformation is discussed; in doing so, the impact force is reduced by 7.82% and a 3.52% increment of energy is absorbed during a frontal collision. The side structure of the modified model also provided additional 162 mm space protection for the occupant, a reduction of impact force by 14.4%, and absorbed additional 7.6% energy. The new model generates more moment force that stabilizes fast as compared to the current, and also the relationship between energy absorbed and deformation is seen that with less deformation, the new model absorbs more energy. In conclusion, it can be claimed that the updated model considerably improved the pickup vehicle’s safety and crashworthiness without affecting the vehicle’s weight or appearance.

Background: Psychosocial problems are widely affecting the population around the world and worsening in university students. Timely access to psychosocial counseling and support remained challenging. Hence, implementing a digital-based approach to psychosocial counseling services could potentially improve access and efficiency for students in need. However, limited evidence on the intention to use digital-based psychosocial counseling and its predictors among university students in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the intention to use digital-based psychosocial counseling and its predictors among students at the University of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 759 students from 28 March until 28 April 2023 at the University of Gondar, Northwest, Ethiopia. Proportional allocation was done, and the participants were selected using stratified random sampling. The median score was used as a cutoff point. The student who scores median and above on intention to use construct was considered as intended to use digital-based psychosocial counseling otherwise unintended. The interviewer-administered questionnaire, adapted from the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model and kobo collect app, was employed to collect the data. Data were exported to SPSS 20 for descriptive analysis and Analysis of Moment and Structure version 23 for structural equation modeling analysis to assess the significance of relationships between variables using a path coefficient and a p -value of

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues among the current environmental problems and it affects the livelihood of the community by creating scarcity of renewable resources. Ethiopia is one of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa extremely vulnerable to climate change. This study was aimed to investigate climate-change-driven conflict by taking case from Northeast Ethiopia. A cross-sectional survey study was employed and data was collected from the primary and secondary sources. The structured household survey, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from selected samples. About 100 survey respondents, 10 KII and 3 FGD participants were involved in generating data which was analyzed by employing descriptive and qualitative analysis techniques. The finding revealed that climate change is occurring through increasing temperature and decreasing rainfall and frequent drought caused by deforestation, degradation of natural resources and urbanization. Consequently, the participants have experienced critical shortage of water, animal fed and most of them were food insecure. Similarly, a considerable number of residents were exposed to climate-change-induced conflict. The conflict in North Wollo was climate driven and interethnic whereby Amhara ethnic are conflicting with Afar ethnic over the resources around their border. It is recommended that employing the customary law and religious institutions are the most trusted and leading agents to resolve conflict. Area-specific and local-based climate change adaptation techniques including drought-resistant plant species and reducing the number of livestock were suggested as the solutions to solve the problems.

Introduction: Heteropagus twins are extremely rare, occurring in one to two million live births. To date, fewer than 75 cases of epigastric heteropagus twins have been reported, and only a handful of these cases have involved heteropagus twins with a concomitant omphalocele. Case presentation: We present a case of heteropagus twins in a 2-day-old neonate with a fully formed parasitic mass attached to the lower anterior chest wall and epigastrium. The parasitic twin was acephalic and acardiac, had bowel structures, pelvic bones, bilateral lower limbs, and a single upper limb. The blood supply of the parasitic twin primarily originated from the right internal mammary artery, and the venous return was via the right internal mammary vein to the superior vena cava. The parasitic twin's bowel loops overlapped the left lobe of the autosite's liver, which was partially contained in a midline omphalocele-like abdominal wall defect. The autosite also had a small patent foramen ovale and a patent ductus arteriosum with a left-to-right shunt. A successful dissection and excision of the parasitic twin was done to remove the rudimentary limbs, pelvis, and part of the parasitic trunk. The autosite's omphalocele was repaired at the same time. The patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Conclusion: Early surgical separation of heteropagus twins is crucial to optimize the outcomes of the healthy twin.

Introduction: Measuring what it tends to measure makes a tool powerful and useful for decision-making. As the Amharic version summary of the diabetes self-care activity scale construct hasn't yet been validated, there is an urgent need for validation. This study aims to validate the Amharic version of the summary of the diabetes self-care activity scale among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Addis Ababa hospitals. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study design was used to recruit 600 participants. The data was collected using open-data-kit and exported to SPSS and STATA for analysis. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was performed on 300 randomly allocated separate samples. Result: A total of four factors with an eigenvalue greater than one, constituting nine items, were identified. The average variance executed (AVE) becomes 0.78, with a composite reliability of 0.97. Hence there is convergence between the items and the new construct. The overall internal consistency of the new construct was 0.853, which is greater than 0.7, affirming the reliability of the construct. Conclusion: We can conclude that this 4-factor structure with a 9-item Amharic version of SDSCA is highly valid and reliable. Researchers and clinicians are highly recommended to use this validated tool.

IntroductionChronic diseases are the leading causes of death in the world. In sub-Saharan Africa, it leads to more mortality than almost every other region in the world. Currently, digital health technology like personal health records plays a crucial role in managing patients with chronic diseases. In low-resource countries like Ethiopia, it is uncertain how many chronic patients intend to use PHRs and the accompanying circumstances. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess chronic patients’ intention to use PHRs and its predictors enrolled in public health hospitals in Bahir Dar city, northwest Ethiopia.MethodAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 924 respondents from April 5 to May 9, 2023, in Bahir-Dar city public hospitals. A stratified sampling technique followed by a systematic sampling technique was applied to select the study participants. An interviewer-administrated questionnaire was conducted using Kobo Collect. A UTAUT2 model was applied to develop theoretical frameworks. SPSS version 25 software was used to estimate the descriptive statistics, and the structural equation model analysis was used to evaluate model constructs using AMOS version 21 software.ResultsIn this study, a total of 908 study subjects participated. The proportion of chronic patients’ intention to use PHR was 46.7% [95.0% CI (43.4–50.1)]. According to the findings, performance expectancy (β = 0.259, p-value

Introduction: Globally, there is rising concern over the growing reliance on breast milk substitutes (BMSs). However, limited studies have been conducted to explore this issue in Ethiopia. Objective: To assess infant formula feeding and associated factors among mothers of infants aged 0–6 months in Debre Berhan City, 2023. Methods and materials: This cross-sectional study used a multistage sampling technique to select 656 mothers residing in Debre Berhan city. The data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to identify the factors associated with infant formula feeding. The findings are then presented as frequencies, percentages, and odds ratios. Results: The prevalence of infant formula feeding in Debre Berhan city was 39.7 %. In addition, having a female child [AOR = 1.75, 95 % CI: 1.08–2.86], receiving a college education or higher [AOR = 5.79, 95 % CI: 2.38–14.08], being in the age category of 25–34 [AOR = 2.38, 95 % CI: 1.10–5.15] or 35–45 [AOR = 3.43, 95 % CI: 1.35–8.69], being a prime mother [AOR = 1.81, 95 % CI: 1.12–2.94], receiving breastfeeding advice [AOR = 4.64, 95 % CI: 2.78–7.75], delivering via a C-section [AOR = 5.39, 95 % CI: 2.54–11.42], initiating breastfeeding late [AOR = 2.26, (95 % CI: 1.41–3.64)], or being unaware of the risks associated with infant formula feeding [AOR = 5.48, 95 % CI: 3.20–9.39] were the factors that drove mothers towards infant formula feeding. Conclusion: In Debre Berhan city, the prevalence of infant formula feeding was high. Fortunately, with appropriate interventions, most of the factors that led to infant formula feeding could be effectively addressed.

Land degradation and sedimentation are global issues stemming from inappropriate land management practices within watersheds, primarily due to soil erosion. The primary aim of this investigation was to estimate sediment yield, pinpoint erosion-prone areas, and determine effective strategies for reducing erosion and sediment yield within the Mormora watershed utilizing the SWAT model. The performance of the SWAT model was assessed through calibration and validation procedures employing the Sequential Uncertainty Fitting 2 (SUFI-2) algorithm within the SWAT Calibration and Uncertainty Procedures (SWAT-CUP). Calibration was conducted for the period 1993 to 2006, while validation was carried out for 2007 to 2013, focusing on streamflow and sediment yields at gauging station. Various metrics including R 2 , NSE, RSR, and PBIAS were used to assess model performance. All model performance metrics indicated high accuracy. The average annual sediment yield at the outlet of the watershed was 1.19 million t/year with a spatial average of 8.54 t/ha/year. About 47.33% of the watershed was critical areas demanding implementation of soil conservation strategy. The effectiveness of five watershed management scenarios was compared to existing baseline conditions for their effectiveness in sediment yield reduction. The results indicate soil erosion decreased by 28.3% to 55.9% by applying filter strips, 61.7% to 68.4% by grassed waterways, 71.38% by terracing, 62.64% by contouring, and 46.3% by applying stone/soil bunds. Ultimately, terracing emerged as the most effective strategy for mitigating soil erosion within the study area. Consequently, the research outcomes and the developed methodology serve as a valuable resource for decision-makers, experts, and researchers involved in sustainable watershed management.

The production of biodiesel conventionally relies on batch reactors for the transesterification of oil and alcohol. However, the inherent limitations of batch-wise biodiesel production, including biphasic oil and alcohol, the establishment of equilibrium during transesterification, and heightened manufacturing costs, underscore the need for intensifying biodiesel synthesis. The integration of microreactors and micromixers presents a promising avenue to achieve these objectives, driving significant interest in the development of continuous biodiesel synthesis within microreactor systems. Continuous microreactors, empowered by micromixers, offer key advantages such as a heightened interfacial area between immiscible reactants and phases, as well as reduced mass transfer resistance, culminating in elevated biodiesel yields. Consequently, the micromixer emerges as a pivotal component in microreactor systems. This review delves into the pivotal role of micromixers in biodiesel production within microreactors, shedding light on micromixer types, channel configurations, reactor dimensions, mixing indices, and the influence of co-solvents in micromixers. The efficiency of various micromixer types is meticulously analyzed using a mixing index and yield of oil. Furthermore, the review addresses the challenges inherent in biodiesel production when employing micromixers and microreactors.

Background: Salt is an affordable commodity and has wide coverage regardless of economic and social status and, hence, could be suitable vehicle for multiple micronutrient fortification. Objectives: This study aimed to simulate the contribution folic acid and zinc fortification of iodized salt to nutrient intake among the Ethiopian population. Methods: The 2013 Ethiopian National Food Consumption Survey and various food composition tables were used to estimate baseline individual-level micronutrient intake. Usual intake was estimated using the Simulating Intake of Micronutrients for Policy Learning and Engagement macro tool. Discretionary salt consumption was calculated from total salt intake estimated using urinary sodium excretion. Fortificant addition rates were set to obtain maximum nutrient intake while simultaneously constraining that population with intake above the tolerable upper intake level to

Background Telesurgery has become helpful in overcoming the current shortage of surgeons and reducing the barriers to timely and effective surgical intervention caused by long-distance travel, which is caused by distance, cost, complexity and frequent hazards. However, knowledge and attitude remain challenges in the implementation of such a system.Objective This study aimed to assess physicians’ knowledge and attitude towards telesurgery and associated factors at resource-limited setting, Northwest Ethiopia.Method and analysis A simple random sampling method was carried out to choose study participants from each referral hospital, and data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to estimate knowledge and attitudes towards telesurgery among physicians and to identify factors associated with physician knowledge and attitudes towards telesurgery.Study design Cross-sectional study design.Setting This study was conducted at six specialised referral hospitals and two specialised and teaching referral hospitals in the Amhara region, northwest Ethiopia.Result 408 physicians were included for analysis, with a response rate of 96.45%. Among study participants, 47.8% and 43.1% had good knowledge and attitudes towards telesurgery, respectively. Educational status, digital literacy, source of information, computer training, digital health training and internet access in the organisation were factors associated with a physician’s knowledge of telesurgery. Moreover, physician’s knowledge, technology use, educational status, computer training, computer access and internet access in the organisation were factors associated with physicians’ attitudes towards telesurgery.Conclusion and recommendation Almost half of physicians had good knowledge, and less than half had a good attitude towards telesurgery, so healthcare policy-makers should improve physicians’ digital literacy, technology use and internet access to enhance their knowledge and attitudes for future implementation.

Abstract Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a condition which can be prevented and treated and is characterized by difficulty of breathing that is not entirely curable. The overall objective of this study was to model the variation of longitudinal measurement over time for outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases at the University of Gondar referral hospital. From February 1, 2019, to February 1, 2022, a retrospective study of outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was conducted in a hospital. The data was extracted from all patients' data records from the patient’s chart. The information includes the fundamental demographic and clinical details of each outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Mixed linear model were used to investigate the determinant factor of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. From a total of 266 outpatients, Averages of the ratio of forced expiratory volume to forced vital capacity among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were 0.65, with a standard deviation of 0.043. Comorbidities (average = 2.18, 95% CI 0.43:3.9, P = 0.0133), HIV(average = 4.83, 95% CI 1.94:7.72, P = 0.0012), education (average = 2.98; 95% CI 0.75:4.8, P = 0.008), and weight (average = 0.178, 95% CI 0.045:0.311, P = 0.009) are risk factors for change in forced vital capacity. This study clearly shows that there is a high COPD prevalence in Ethiopia. The risk factors for chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are the smoking status, comorbidities, HIV, education status of the patient, weight, and time of the visit.

Abstract Industrial chemical pollutants such as methylene blue (MB) dye are released into the water body and potentially cause harm to the human and aquatic biosphere. Therefore, this study aims to synthesize eco-friendly nanocatalysts, i.e., reduced graphene oxide (rGO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and reduced graphene oxide-zinc oxide (rGO@ZnO) nanocomposites, for efficient photocatalytic degradation of MB dye. A graphite rod was obtained from waste dry cell batteries for the electrochemical exfoliation synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) and rGO. For the eco-friendly synthesis of ZnO and rGO@ZnO nanocatalysts, Croton macrostachyus leaf extract was used as a reducing and capping agent. The synthesized nanocatalysts were characterized using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray. The eco-friendly synthesized rGO, ZnO, and rGO@ZnO nanocatalysts were applied for the photocatalytic degradation of MB dye using direct sunlight irradiation. At optimum parameters, photocatalytic degradation of MB dye efficiency reached up to 66%, 96.5%, and 99.0%, respectively. Furthermore, kinetics of the photodegradation reaction based on rGO, ZnO, and rGO@ZnO nanocatalysts follow pseudo-first-order with a rate constant of 2.16 × 10–3 min−1, 4.97 × 10−3 min−1, and 5.03 × 10−3 min−1, respectively. Lastly, this study promotes a low catalyst load (20 mg) for the efficient photodegradation of MB dye.

Abstract Background Visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the parasites Leishmania donovani spices complex that can spread to internal organs and the disease is fatal with a fatality rate of nearly 100% if left untreated. Visceral Leishmania-HIV (HIV1) coinfection disease is a new clinical form of leishmaniasis very serious disease in the endemic part of the world. It also served as the primary cause of death in the lowlands of Ethiopia with the endemic Humara and Metema that are located near the Sudanese border. Methods A total of 153 visceral leishmaniases with HIV co-infection secondary data was taken from the medical chart of patients from January 2015 to January 2021 and a hospital-based cross-sectional study design was carried out to retrieve relevant information. The data entered by SPSS and analysed using STATA version 14 and R4.2.1 statistical software packages using a non-parametric Model, semi-parametric Cox proportional hazard survival models at 5% significance level. Result Among the total visceral leishmaniasis with HIV co-infected patients 3.27% were females and 96.73% were males, 19 (12.42%) patients died and 134(87.58%) patients were censored. The Cox proportional hazard model result indicates that severe acute malnutrition, baseline CD4+ cell count ≥100, and underweight significantly contributed to the survival time of a patient. Cox proportional hazard model shows that severe acute malnutrition (HR=4.40027, 95% CI= 2.455061 262.7934, P-value=0.007), baseline CD4+cell count ≥100 (HR=0.2714623, 95% CI= 0.0764089 0.9644395, P-value=0.044), and Underweight (HR=4.678169, 95% CI= 1.970097 11.10872, P-value=0.040) significantly contributed to a shorter survival time. Conclusion Visceral leishmaniases with HIV co-infected patients show a large number of deaths occurred in the earlier days of treatment this implies that Visceral leishmaniasis accelerates HIV replication and disease progression death. The researcher suggests that people be aware of the burden posed by those risk factors and knowledgeable about the diseases. So, the researcher recommended that to health workers implement primary health care in those patients and careful consideration of a neglected parasitic disease.

Abstract Background Cervical cancer is one of the most serious threats to women's lives. Modelling the change in tumour size over time for outpatients with cervical cancer was the study's main goal. Methods A hospital conducted a retrospective cohort study with outpatients who had cervical cancer. The information about the tumour size was taken from the patient's chart and all patient data records between May 20, 2017, and May 20, 2021. The data cover 322 cervical cancer outpatients' basic demographic and medical information. When analysing longitudinal data, the linear mixed effect model and the connection between tumour sizes in outpatients were taken into consideration. A linear mixed model, a random intercept model, and a slope model were used to fit the data. Result A sample of 322 cervical cancer outpatients was examined, and 148 (or 46% of the outpatients) tested positive for HIV. The linear mixed model with a first-order autoregressive covariance structure revealed that a change in time of one month led to a 0.009 cm2 reduction in tumour size. For every kilogramme more in weight, the tumour size change in cervical cancer patients decreased considerably by 0.0098 cm2. The tumour size change in the cervical cancer patient who was HIV-positive was 0.4360 cm squared greater than that in the HIV-negative outpatients. Conclusion As a consequence, there was a significant association between the longitudinal change in tumour size and the predictor variables visit time, therapy, patient weight, cancer stage, HIV, oral contraceptive use, history of abortion, and smoking status.

Background Childhood tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis remains challenging, partly because children cannot provide sputum. This study evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of the Simple One-Step (SOS) stool method with Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Xpert-Ultra) for childhood TB compared to culture and Xpert-Ultra on a respiratory sample (RS) and clinical diagnosis. It also assessed the feasibility and acceptability of stool testing according to laboratory staff, and caregivers’ sample preference. Methods We enrolled children (≤10 years) with presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis in Ethiopia. RS was tested using Xpert-Ultra and culture; stool samples were tested using the SOS stool method with Xpert-Ultra. Laboratory staff and caregivers’ opinions were assessed using standardised questionnaires. Results Of the 898 children enrolled, 792, 832 and 794 were included for assessing the diagnostic accuracy of SOS stool with Xpert-Ultra against culture, RS Xpert-Ultra and clinical diagnosis, respectively, yielding sensitivity estimates for SOS stool with Xpert-Ultra of 69.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 56.0–79.7%), 76.8% (95% CI 64.2–85.9%) and 59.0% (95% CI 47.9–69.2%), respectively. The specificity was ≥98.8% for all comparisons. The rate of non-determinate test results was 2.8% after one repeat test. According to laboratory staff, stool collection was feasible and acceptable and the SOS stool method was easy to perform. Most caregivers (75%) preferred stool for TB diagnosis over RS. Conclusion This study shows that SOS stool Xpert-Ultra testing offers a good alternative to RS testing for TB in children who cannot spontaneously produce a sputum sample and would otherwise need to undergo invasive procedures to obtain RS for diagnosis.

Abstract Background and Aim Echinops kebericho, an endemic plant to Ethiopia, traditionally used to treat infectious as well as noninfectious diseases. The primary objective of this study was isolating dehydrocostus lactone (DHCL) from E. kebericho and evaluating antibacterial activities on selected human pathogenic bacteria. Methods Extraction method used in this study was maceration. Based on the bioassay information methanol extract of the root of E. kebericho was subjected to column chromatography on silica gel by increasing solvent gradients to isolate DHCL. Optimized amount isolation of DHCL was done by dissolving methanol crude extract by hexane followed by recrystallization at room temperature in the dark place. Different concentrations of the extract were subjected by disc diffusion method against tested bacterial species and antioxidant activity test. Results The phytochemical analysis of E. kebericho revealed a high presence of terpenoids, which are diverse natural compounds known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This suggests that terpenoids contribute significantly to the pharmacological effects of E. kebericho. In antibacterial testing, Escherichia coli was the most sensitive bacterium among all extracts and concentrations. The methanol extract displayed higher antioxidant activity compared to ethyl acetate and hexane extracts, indicating a higher concentration of antioxidant compounds. Notably, the isolated compound DHCL showed promising activity against tested pathogens and significant antioxidant activity. The higher activity of DHCL compared to the crude extracts suggests its responsibility for the observed effects, indicating that the isolation and purification process may have concentrated its beneficial properties. These findings highlight the potential of E. kebericho and DHCL as sources of bioactive compounds for therapeutic applications. Conclusion All tested extracts and pure compound showed higher inhibition than positive controls in both bioassay. DHCL the principal bioactive component in the root extract of the plant and it displayed potent antibacterial and antioxidant activity.

Background: Although cervical cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women and has a high morbidity, mortality, and low quality of life burden among human immune virus-positive women, there is little evidence of it in northeastern Ethiopia. Objective: Sought to determine the magnitude and associated factors of cervical cancer screening among human immune virus-positive women in public health facilities in northeastern Ethiopia. Methods and material: A multicentered, institution-based cross-sectional study with 401 participants using the systematic random sampling technique was employed. The data was gathered through personal interviews and chart reviews. The predictors were established via multivariate logistic regression analysis. Result: The magnitude of cervical cancer screening was 19.2% (15.7%–22.9%). Multiparity, bad obstetric history, hearing about cervical cancer, recommendations from medical professionals, duration of antiretroviral therapy >10 years, a family record of cervical cancer, and knowing cervical cancer were revealed to be predictors of testing for cervical cancer. Conclusion: The magnitude of cervical cancer screening was 19.2% (15.7%–22.9%). Multiparity, bad obstetric history, hearing about cervical cancer, recommendations from medical professionals, duration of antiretroviral therapy >10 years, a family record of cervical cancer, and knowing cervical cancer were revealed to be predictors of testing for cervical cancer.