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Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vitiligo and associated factors among patients visiting the dermatologic outpatient departments at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital and Addisalem Primary Hospitals, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, from September 15 to November 15, 2023. Results: Among the 460 patients studied, 243 (52.8%) were female, with the majority (28.9%) aged between 25 and 34 years. The overall prevalence of vitiligo was found to be 7.4% (34 patients). Significant predictors of vitiligo included rural residence (AOR: 3.18; 95% CI: 1.10–9.18), family history of vitiligo (AOR: 2.20; 95% CI: 2.16–4.76), and aggravating factors such as trauma (AOR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.01–2.08). The highest prevalence was observed in the 14–24 age group. These findings suggest the importance of awareness campaigns focusing on the causes, symptoms, and treatments of vitiligo, particularly among young adults in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Zinc with oral re-hydration salt supplementation provides much improved outcomes for managing childhood diarrhea. There is scarcity of evidence in the study area regarding zinc supplementation adherence and factors associated with. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess zinc supplementation adherence and associated factors among caregivers of under five children with diarrhea attending health centers in Gondar City. Methods: An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted with 405 caregivers of under-five children with diarrhea who received zinc supplementation in Gondar City health centers. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed. Results: 35% (95% CI: 29.91, 39.21) of caregivers of under five children adhered for zinc supplementation. Adherence was observed among caregivers with good knowledge about zinc supplementation (AOR = 3.01 95%CI = 1.73, 5.24), and who received counseling (AOR = 8.4, 95%CI = 4.66, 15.13), presence of side effects (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.20, 0.65) was negatively associated with zinc supplementation adherence. Conclusion: In the study area, more than one third of children with diarrhea were adhered to zinc supplementation. Thus, improving the knowledge of caregivers and enhancing counseling services on benefits, dosage, duration and side effects of zinc supplementation are vital to improve adherence in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Zinc with oral re-hydration salt supplementation provides much improved outcomes for managing childhood diarrhea. There is scarcity of evidence in the study area regarding zinc supplementation adherence and factors associated with. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess zinc supplementation adherence and associated factors among caregivers of under five children with diarrhea attending health centers in Gondar City. Methods An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted with 405 caregivers of under-five children with diarrhea who received zinc supplementation in Gondar City health centers. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed. Results 35% (95% CI: 29.91, 39.21) of caregivers of under five children adhered for zinc supplementation. Adherence was observed among caregivers with good knowledge about zinc supplementation (AOR = 3.01 95%CI = 1.73, 5.24), and who received counseling (AOR = 8.4, 95%CI = 4.66, 15.13), presence of side effects (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.20, 0.65) was negatively associated with zinc supplementation adherence. Conclusion In the study area, more than one third of children with diarrhea were adhered to zinc supplementation. Thus, improving the knowledge of caregivers and enhancing counseling services on benefits, dosage, duration and side effects of zinc supplementation are vital to improve adherence in the area.

Objective: The current research aimed to investigate the physicochemical and bacteriological quality status of the Kalte River in Wolaita Sodo Town, southern Ethiopia. Methods: A total of 42 water samples were collected using sterile glass bottles from three different river sites: Damota (upstream), Kera (midstream), and Gututo (downstream). All the water samples were examined for the presence of heterotrophic bacteria, total coliform and fecal coliform using direct plate count method and membrane filtration method. Standard methods suggested by American water works association were used to analysis the physicochemical parameters of the water samples. Results: The results revealed that the total heterotrophic bacteria, total coliform, and fecal coliform count ranged from 8.9 to 12.6 × 104 cfu/ml, 7.5–11.3 × 102 cfu/ml and 5.7–9.7 × 104 cfu/ml, respectively. The bacterial count results indicated that the river water crossed the WHO-recommended limit of potable water. Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Shigella species were the common bacterial pathogens isolated from river water samples. The results of the physicochemical analysis revealed that some of the parameters Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and turbidity exceeded the maximum permissible limits of WHO and other parameters were below the WHO permissible limits. Conclusion: Therefore, the presence of bacterial pathogens, fecal coliform indicators, and some physicochemical parameters of the Kalte River exceeding the recommended limits may expose users of the river water to the risk of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hospital sanitation workers (SWs) are exposed to numerous occupational hazards due to workplace conditions such as unsafe and unhygienic working environment in the hospitals. Therefore, knowing magnitude, types and source of occupational hazard exposures with their determinants are very significant for further mitigations. Methods: Hospital based cross-sectional study design was conducted in public hospitals, eastern Ethiopia from 1st May to August 30th, 2023. 809 SWs participated. Data was entered into Epi Data Version 3.1 and Stata 17MP version used for analysis. Descriptive analysis was applied to describe the data. While, multilevel logistic regression was explored to determine the association between outcome and independents among at individual level (model 1), at hospitals (model 2) and combination of the two (model 3). The crude odds ratio (COR) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for models 2 and 3 were reported. Variables with an AOR with a 95% confidence interval (CI) at a p-value < 0.05 were reported. Result: Out of 809 SWs, 729 (90.11%) responded. The overall magnitude of self-reported occupational hazard exposures among SWs was 63.65% (95% CI 0.60–0.67). Of this, biological, chemical, and ergonomic hazards accounted for 82.44%, 74.76%, and 70.92%, respectively. The multilevel logistic regression shows that having social recognition (AOR: 0.37, 95% CI 0.14, 0.91), neutral attitude (AOR: 0.48, 95% CI 0.17, 1.41) as compared to negative attitude. The model also found that SWs those supervised could reduce the likelihood of occupational hazard exposures by 50% times (AOR: 0.50, 95% CI 0.18, 1.38) as compared to non-supervised SWs. The final model predicted the variation of occupational hazard exposures among sanitary workers from the hospitals to hospitals was 26.59%. Conclusions: The concluded that hospital sanitary workers are facing biological, chemical, ergonomic, physical, psychological, mechanical, and electrical hazards. This study's findings predicted that dissatisfied with their environment, working more than 8 hr per a day, a negative attitude towards workplace risks and inadequate supervision may serve as contributing factors for the likelihood of occupational hazard exposures among these groups. Thus, the study suggested that hospitals could reduce these hazard risks if they implement the Risk Assessment and Safety Management (RASM) model, which includes multi-modal strategies, indicators and tripartite philosophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health-related quality of life and its associated factors among hypertensive patients living in Ethiopia are not well studied. Therefore, this study aims to assess the level of health-related quality of life and its associated factors in hypertensive patients on follow-up in Public Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 339 hypertensive patients on follow-up at Yekatit 12 &Zewditu Hospitals. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using Euro Quality of Life Groups 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L) in combination with Euro Quality of Life Groups Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS). A multivariable Tobit regression model was employed to assess the association between EQ-5D-5L index, EQ-VAS, and potential predicting factors. Results: The median index value and EQ-VAS Scales score was 0.86 (IQR = 0.74, 0.94) and 69 (IQR = 55, 80) respectively. The proportion of participants reporting anxiety/depression and pain/discomfort problems was highest, while the fewest patients reported problems in the self-care dimension. Older, rural residents, low income, higher stages of hypertension, increased use of antihypertensive medications, and patients with an increased hospitalization rate scored lower on health-related quality of life than others. Conclusion: Health-related quality of life among hypertensive patients attending public health hospitals in Addis Ababa is unacceptably poor. Emphasis should be given to patients with higher stages of hypertension, increased use of antihypertensive medications, and an increased hospitalization rate giving due focus to older, rural residents, and low-income patients to promote their health-related quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neisseria meningitides, Streptococcus pneumonia, and hemophilic influenza type B are frequently linked to bacterial meningitis (BM) in children. It's an infectious sickness that kills and severely mobilizes children. For a variety of reasons, bacterial meningitis remains a global public health concern; most cases and deaths are found in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. Even though vaccination has made BM more preventable, children worldwide are still severely harmed by this serious illness. Age, sex, and co-morbidity are among the risk variables for BM that have been found. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to identify the variables influencing the time to recovery for children with bacterial meningitis at Jigjiga University referral hospital in the Somali regional state of Ethiopia. Method: A retrospective cohort of 535 children with bacterial meningitis who received antibiotic treatment was the subject of this study. Parametric Shared Frailty ty and the AFT model were employed with log likelihood, BIC, and AIC methods of model selection. The frailty models all employed the patients' kebele as a clustering factor. Results: The number of cases of BM declined in young children during the duration of the 2 year, 11 month study period, but not in the elderly. Streptococcus pneumonia (50%), hemophilic influenza (30.5%), and Neisseria meningitides (15%) were the most frequent causes of BM. The time to recovery of patients from bacteria was significantly influenced by the covariates male patients (ϕ = 0.927; 95% CI (0.866, 0.984); p-value = 0.014), patients without a vaccination history (ϕ = 0.898; 95% CI (0.834, 0.965); P value = 0.0037), and patients who were not breastfeeding (ϕ = 0.616; 95% CI (0.404, 0.039); P-value = 0.024). The recovery times for male, non-breastfed children with bacterial patients are 7.9 and 48.4% shorter, respectively. In contrast to children with comorbidity, the recovery time for children without comorbidity increased by 8.7%. Conclusion: Age group, sex, vaccination status, co-morbidity, breastfeeding, and medication regimen were the main determinant factors for the time to recovery of patients with bacterial meningitis. Patients with co-morbidities require the doctor at Jigjiga University Referral Hospital to pay close attention to them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective This quality improvement project is aimed to increase pain free hospital implementation from 21.7 to 80% at Wallaga University Referral Hospital (WURH) from January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2023. Methods Hospital based interventional study was conducted at WURH. The Plan- Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was used to test change ideas. A fishbone diagram and a driver diagram were used to identify root causes and address them. Major interventions included training of health professionals, initiation of pain as fifth vital sign, policy and protocol development, and conducting regular supportive supervision. Results Upon completion of the project, overall pain-free hospital implementation increased from baseline 21.7–88.7%. Implementation of pain as 5th the vital sign was increased from 15.4 to 92.3%. Regular audits of pain assessment and management increased from 27.3 to 81.8%. Two standardized treatment protocols or chronic and acute pains were developed from baseline zero. A focal person for Pain-free hospital implementation was assigned. More than 85% of healthcare providers were trained in pain assessment and management. Conclusion Compliance with pain-free hospital implementations was significantly improved in the study area. This was achieved through the application of multidimensional change ideas related to health professionals, standardized guidelines and protocols, supplies, and leadership. Therefore, we recommend providing regular technical updates & conducting a frequent clinical audit on pain management.

Abstract Objective War and armed conflicts are the major causes of mortality, morbidity and disability. This study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of injury, cause and its outcome among civilians during the war in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. Results A community based cross sectional study was conducted to collect data from a total of 4,381 sample households. Descriptive analysis was applied and the data are presented using frequencies, percentages, tables and statements. Of the study participants, 6.9% (95% CI: 6.2%, 7.6%) of civilians encountered any kind of war-related physical injury. About Two-third (95% CI: 59%, 73%) of the physical injuries were caused by bullet followed by heavy artillery shelling (proportion = 23%; 95% CI: 17%, 29%). Painfully, about 44% (95% CI: 37%, 50%) faced death following injuries and the other 56.2% (95% CI: 50%, 62.5%) either survived or encountered disability. Post war rehabilitation for the disabled is recommended to enable them live healthy, dignified, independent and productive citizens.

Objective: This quality improvement project is aimed to increase pain free hospital implementation from 21.7 to 80% at Wallaga University Referral Hospital (WURH) from January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2023. Methods: Hospital based interventional study was conducted at WURH. The Plan- Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was used to test change ideas. A fishbone diagram and a driver diagram were used to identify root causes and address them. Major interventions included training of health professionals, initiation of pain as fifth vital sign, policy and protocol development, and conducting regular supportive supervision. Results: Upon completion of the project, overall pain-free hospital implementation increased from baseline 21.7–88.7%. Implementation of pain as 5th the vital sign was increased from 15.4 to 92.3%. Regular audits of pain assessment and management increased from 27.3 to 81.8%. Two standardized treatment protocols or chronic and acute pains were developed from baseline zero. A focal person for Pain-free hospital implementation was assigned. More than 85% of healthcare providers were trained in pain assessment and management. Conclusion: Compliance with pain-free hospital implementations was significantly improved in the study area. This was achieved through the application of multidimensional change ideas related to health professionals, standardized guidelines and protocols, supplies, and leadership. Therefore, we recommend providing regular technical updates & conducting a frequent clinical audit on pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of community conservation areas for large mammals is rarely evaluated. We investigated the species richness and frequency of sightings of large mammals in the Dodola Community Conservation Area. The study area was stratified into three habitat types, and 49 lines transect was laid (27 Dry evergreen Afromontane forests, 20 Sub-afro-alpine habitats, and 2 plantation forests) based on the topography, land use, and vegetation cover of the study area. A total of 24 species of large mammals were identified and recorded in the study area. Though the community conservation area is home to diverse species of mammals, including some endemic and endangered ones such as mountain nyala and Bale Monkey, human encroachment, agriculture, and overgrazing are prominent in the area, putting huge pressure on flora and fauna. Therefore, we recommend the participatory approach be strengthened to ensure sustainable coexistence between people and wildlife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HIV/AIDS is the most known powerful risk factor for morbidity and mortality in the world. The greatest biological markers in HIV patients are CD4 cell count and hemoglobin level, as they are independent predictors of survival of HIV patients. The objective of this study was to investigate the common socio-demographic, clinical, and behavioral Predictor's affecting the CD4 cell count, and hemoglobin level with survival time to default from ART treatment among HIV positive adults under ART treatment at university of Gondar comprehensive and specialized hospital, North-west Ethiopia. Method: This study was conducted at University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital by using a retrospective cohort follow up study design. The source of data in this study was secondary data obtained from patients chart. Bayesian joint models were employed to get wide-ranging information about HIV/AIDS progression. Result: From a total of 403 HIV positive adults, about 44.2% were defaulted from therapy and the rest were actively followed ART treatment. The estimate of the association parameter for the current true value of CD4 cell count ( α 1 ), and hemoglobin level ( α 2 ), trend of CD4 cell count ( α 2 ) and hemoglobin level ( b 2 ) is positive. Positive values indicating that the higher CD4 cell count and hemoglobin level is related with the higher time of defaulting from ART. Predictor's hematocrit, weight, platelet cell count, lymphocyte count, sex, adherence, and WHO clinical stage were joint determinate risk factors affecting CD4 cell count, hemoglobin level and time to default at 5% level of significance. Conclusion: Current study results revealed that hematocrit, weight, BMI, platelet cell count, lymphocyte count, sex (female), and good treatment adherence were significantly associated with higher CD4 cell count, hemoglobin level and time to default while having advanced WHO clinical stage-IV had significantly decreased CD4 cell, hemoglobin level, and time to default from treatment. Patients with HIV should be given special attention based on these important factors to improve their health and prolong their lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a pathophysiological role in cancer initiation and progression. Numerous studies have examined an association between MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-11 expression and clinicopathological characteristics of breast cancer (BC); however, no research has been done on the MMP expression levels in BC cases from Ethiopia. Materials and methods: A total of 58 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded breast tissue samples encompassing 16 benign breast tumors and 42 BC were collected. The RNA was extracted and quantitative reverse-transcription PCR was performed. GraphPad Prism version 8.0.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The MMP-11 expression levels were significantly higher in breast cancer cases than in benign breast tumors (P = 0.012). Additionally, BC cases with positive lymph nodes and ER-positive receptors had higher MMP-11, MMP-9, and MMP-2 expression than cases with negative lymph nodes and ER-negative, respectively. The MMP-11 and MMP-9 expressions were higher in grade III and luminal A-like tumors than in grade I-II and other subtypes, respectively. Conclusion: The MMP-11 expression was higher in BC than in benign breast tumors. Additionally, MMP-11, MMP-9, and MMP-2 were higher in BC with positive lymph nodes and estrogen receptors. Our findings suggest an important impact of MMPs in BC pathophysiology, particularly MMP-11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Evidence shows that majority of dermatological disorders affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients. However, the extent of its negative impact and predictors has not been studied in Ethiopia. Thus, this study looked at assessing the HRQoL and determinants in patients with dermatological disorders (DDs) attending the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoGCSH). Results: Patients with dermatological disorders (n = 400) were included in the final analysis using a systematic random sampling technique. The mean age of the participants was 39.79 (± 17.17) years. The average (± SD) score of EQ-5D-5 L was 1.92 (± 0.74). Regarding domains, pain/discomfort accounted for a higher proportion 59 (22.3%) followed by anxiety/depression 61 (15.3%). Receiving topical preparations (β = -0.399, 95% CI: -0.6, − 0.19; < 0.001), systemic only medication (β = -0.378, 95% CI: -0.607, -0.149; p = 0.002), having slight, mild, and moderate skin diseases found to have an inverse association with impaired HRQoL, (β = -0.654, 95% CI; -1.01, -0.290); p < 0.001), (β = -0.748, 95% CI: -0.960, -0.538; p < 0.001), and (β = -0.465, 95% CI: -0.642, -0.283; p < 0.001), respectively. Furthermore, age (β = 0.011, 95% CI: 0.006, 0.016; p = 0.001), long duration with skin disease (β = 0.046, 95% CI: 0.015, 0.352; p = 0.013), and presence of comorbidity (β = 0.251, 95% CI: 0.096, 0.402; p = 0.002) were significant predictors of HRQoL among dermatological disease patients. Conclusion: Patients with dermatological disease were found to have a compromised HRQoL. Pain /discomfort problems accounted for a higher proportion compared with other domains. Socio-demographic, clinical and medication-related variables were significantly associated with HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Noma is a facially disfiguring disease that affects the oral cavity and midface structures. If left untreated, the disease is fatal. Noma causes severe cosmetic and functional defects in survivors, leading to psychiatric and social problems. However, there are limited data on psychosocial and functional sequelae associated with this disease. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate psychosocial and functional morbidity among facially disfigured untreated Noma cases. Study participants were volunteer patients diagnosed with noma and awaiting surgery at two noma treatment centers in Ethiopia. A questionnaire derived from the APA's DSM-5, the DAS59, and the Appearance Anxiety Inventory protocol was used to measure the psychosocial and functional morbidity of the cases between September 16 and October 10, 2022. Results: A total of 32 noma cases (19 women and 13 men) awaiting the next surgical campaigns were involved in the study. Study participants reported severe social (Likert score = 2.8) and psychological (Likert score = 3.0) morbidity. Functional limitation was moderate (Likert score = 2.9). This study has shown that psychosocial and functional morbidity in untreated noma cases in Ethiopia is substantial. Therefore, policymakers, clinicians, and researchers need to pay sufficient attention to providing adequate health care and preventing the occurrence of the disease in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Ethiopia, one in five instrumental deliveries among women giving birth resulted in an unfavourable outcome. This study aimed to assess the determinants of feto-maternal complications of instrumental delivery in selected public hospitals of Gamo and Gofa zones, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 399 women attending selected public hospitals in the Gamo and Gofa zones. Data were collected using data extraction tools using a systematic random sampling technique. The collected data was entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and then analyzed using SPSS version 25. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine an association. Results: One hundred eighty-three (45.9%, n = 183/399) instrumental deliveries were found to be complicated. Primigravida women (AOR: 95% CI: 2.21 (1.35, 3.63), infant birth weight (AOR: 95% CI: 2.56 (1.37, 4.77), post-term pregnancy (AOR: 95% CI: 12.77 (2.92, 55.78), and maternal age (AOR: 95% CI: 7.00 (2.16, 22.64) were associated with fetomaternal complications in instrumental delivery among women who gave birth. Conclusions and recommendation: A high proportion of women developed fetomaternal complications when compared to local studies. Promotion of antenatal care services, increasing women's education and empowerment as well as working on capacity building of health care professionals through education and training is cost-effective to reduce the occurrence of fetomaternal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a pathophysiological role in cancer initiation and progression. Numerous studies have examined an association between MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-11 expression and clinicopathological characteristics of breast cancer (BC); however, no research has been done on the MMP expression levels in BC cases from Ethiopia. Materials and methods A total of 58 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded breast tissue samples encompassing 16 benign breast tumors and 42 BC were collected. The RNA was extracted and quantitative reverse-transcription PCR was performed. GraphPad Prism version 8.0.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results The MMP-11 expression levels were significantly higher in breast cancer cases than in benign breast tumors (P = 0.012). Additionally, BC cases with positive lymph nodes and ER-positive receptors had higher MMP-11, MMP-9, and MMP-2 expression than cases with negative lymph nodes and ER-negative, respectively. The MMP-11 and MMP-9 expressions were higher in grade III and luminal A-like tumors than in grade I-II and other subtypes, respectively. Conclusion The MMP-11 expression was higher in BC than in benign breast tumors. Additionally, MMP-11, MMP-9, and MMP-2 were higher in BC with positive lymph nodes and estrogen receptors. Our findings suggest an important impact of MMPs in BC pathophysiology, particularly MMP-11.

Abstract Objectives Evidence shows that majority of dermatological disorders affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients. However, the extent of its negative impact and predictors has not been studied in Ethiopia. Thus, this study looked at assessing the HRQoL and determinants in patients with dermatological disorders (DDs) attending the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoGCSH). Results Patients with dermatological disorders (n = 400) were included in the final analysis using a systematic random sampling technique. The mean age of the participants was 39.79 (± 17.17) years. The average (± SD) score of EQ-5D-5 L was 1.92 (± 0.74). Regarding domains, pain/discomfort accounted for a higher proportion 59 (22.3%) followed by anxiety/depression 61 (15.3%). Receiving topical preparations (β = -0.399, 95% CI: -0.6, − 0.19; < 0.001), systemic only medication (β = -0.378, 95% CI: -0.607, -0.149; p = 0.002), having slight, mild, and moderate skin diseases found to have an inverse association with impaired HRQoL, (β = -0.654, 95% CI; -1.01, -0.290); p

Objective: Aloe elegans Tod. is an ecologically, environmentally, medicinally, and commercially useful aloe species in Ethiopia and Eritrea. Unfortunately, it is highly threatened due to industrial and urban expansion and traditional mining and agricultural activities. As a consequence, it is included in the IUCN List of Threatened Species since 2013. The plant is getting thinly populated in many parts of the Tigrai floristic region since it is being exploited for traditional and commercial purposes. Therefore, this study was aimed to develop a reproducible, large-scale micropropagation protocol using offshoot cuttings in Murashige and Skoog (MS) media enriched with plant growth regulators (PGRs). Results: Sterilized explants cultured in full-strength MS media enriched with 0.25 mg/L benzyl amino purine (BAP) and 0.10 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) resulted in 100% healthy and live (i.e., initiated) explants after four weeks of initiation study. Unsupplemented initiation media (control) yielded only 14.3% initiated explants. The initiated explants were tested for their shooting response to produce microshoots by incubating in different concentrations and combinations of BAP and NAA for four weeks. Fewer days to shooting (13.0 ± 1.0 days), higher mean shoot number (5.0 ± 1.0), and higher mean shoot length (9.20 ± 2.35 cm) were observed with 1.0/0.50, 1.0/0.25, and 1.0 /0.50 mg/L BAP/NAA combinations, respectively. The rooting responses of the microshoots toward producing plantlets were also tested by incubating them in half-strength MS media enriched with different concentrations of NAA and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) for four weeks. Fewer mean days to rooting (12.0 ± 1.0 days), higher mean root number (8.0 ± 4.0), and higher mean root length (7.53 ± 3.03 cm) were observed in MS media enriched with 0.75, 0.75, and 1.25 mg/L IBA, respectively. The responses of A. elegans plantlets to primary (in greenhouse) and secondary (in nursery shade and direct sunlight) acclimatization in coco peat, composted soil, and manured soil media were high – with survival percentages of 87.5–97.8% in three to four weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still affecting African countries. The pandemic presents challenges on how to measure governmental, and community responses to the crisis. Beyond health risks, the socio-economic implications of the pandemic motivated us to examine the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 and the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of BCG vaccination and NPIs enforced on COVID-19 case-death-recovery counts weighted by age-structured population in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda. We applied a semi-mechanistic Bayesian hierarchical model (BHM) combined with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation to the age-structured pandemic data obtained from the target countries. Results: The estimated mean effective reproductive number (Rt) for COVID-19 was 2.50 (C1: 1.99–5.95), 3.51 (CI: 2.28–7.28) and 3.53 (CI: 2.97–5.60) in Ethiopia, Kenya and Rwanda respectively. Our results indicate that NPIs such as lockdowns, and curfews had a large effect on reducing Rt. Current interventions have been effective in reducing Rt and thereby achieve control of the epidemic. Beyond age-structure and NPIs, we found no significant association between COVID-19 and BCG vaccine-induced protection. Continued interventions should be strengthened to control transmission of SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The biuret method is frequently used to determine serum total protein. On the other hand refractometer, a quicker and less expensive option, is available to determine serum total protein. However, there is no study conducted in Ethiopia to compare serum total protein measurement in veterinary settings. Therefore, this study was conducted to compare the serum total protein concentration measurement in cattle and goats obtained by the biuret method and refractometer., Results: Serum samples from 60 cattle and 60 goats were assayed by both methods and data were analyzed with a paired t-test, Pearson's correlation, and Bland-Altman plots. There was a strong positive correlation between the total protein values determined with the refractometer and the biuret method in cattle (r = 0.93) and goats (r = 0.97). There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the protein values measured with the refractometer and those evaluated with the biuret method in both species. Bland-Altman plots showed that biases indicating the analytic and user error were 8.33% in both species which is below the acceptable total error (< 10%). Thus, refractometer can be used in place of biuret method since it is valid enough to measure serum total protein in cattle and goats., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Abstract Objective Diabetes mellitus is a chronic illness that requires ongoing patient self-management and support to prevent acute complications and to reduce the risk of long- term complications. The objective of the study was to assess diabetic self-care practice and its predictors among adults with diabetes mellitus on follow up at hospitals of Arsi zone, southeast Ethiopia. Results Above half (53.3%) of diabetic patients had good self-care practice. Younger age (AOR: 8.95, 95% CI 1.89,42.48), earning a high income (AOR: 2.495, 95% CI 1.0,5.85), having a family history of diabetes (AOR: 4.5, 95% CI 1.3, 15.5), long duration since the diagnosis of diabetes (AOR: 2.14,95% CI 1.127,4.05), not having diabetic complications (AOR: 3.87, 95% CI 2, 7.48), and having glucometer (AOR: 4.08, 95% CI 1.78 l, 9.33) were significantly associated factors with good diabetic self care practice. Efforts should be made to prevent complications of diabetes mellitus, to support patients who are aged and who have no glucometer at their home to promote good self-care practice. Particularly, health care providers should give special attention to newly diagnosed patients.

Objective: This study was aimed to assess the enzymatic activity and pathogenicity potential of Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae against whiteflies in Ethiopia. Results: The data showed that Beauveria bassiana AAUMB-29, AAUMFB-77, and AAUEB-59 generated the highest chitinase (EI = 3.41), lipase (EI = 4.45), and protease activities (EI = 5.44) respectively. The pathogenicity study of isolates on whitefly nymphs and adults indicated significant variation (P < 0.05) with mortality ranging from 71.67 to 98.33% and 60 to 100% against Bemisia tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum nymphs respectively. The mortality of adults was between 58 and 94.27% against B. tabaci and 59.03 to 95.37% against T.vaporariorum. The result also showed that AAUMB-29, AAUMFB-77, and AAUDM-43 were the most virulent with LC50 values of 2.7 × 104, 5.3 × 104, and 5.4 × 104 conidia/ml against nymphs of B. tabaci, and with LC50 values 6.8 × 104, 8.2 × 104, and 7.2 × 104 conidia/ml against nymphs of T. vaporariorum, respectively. The B. bassiana AAUMB-29, B. bassiana AAUMFB-77, and M. anisopliae AAUDM-43 induced the highest whitefly mortality than other isolates. These isolates can be recommended for further tests under field conditions to fully realize their potential as effective biocontrol agents against whitefly pests in tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective The aim of this evaluation was to assess the effectiveness of helping baby breathe (HBB) and essential care for every baby (ECEB) training program that has been implemented in southern nations nationalities and people’s region (SNNPR), Ethiopia. Result The mean trainees’ satisfaction score was 32.88 (SD ± 2.68). The majority (93.88%) of the trainees scored ≥ mean. All trainees expressed that all parts of the training were important but the updated parts of the training were most useful to them. The mean knowledge score of trainees for HBB training increased from 64.42 (SD ± 17.43) before the training to 80.71 (SD ± 14.36) after the training. The increment was statistically significant at p

Abstract Objective This study was aimed to asses knowledge of prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV among reproductive age women and associated factors at Mecha district, North West Ethiopia. A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 853 reproductive age women from July 1- 30/2016 in Mecha district. By multistage sampling technique data were collected through pre-tested questionnaire. The collected data was entered in Epi Data 3.1 and analyzed with SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression model were used. Result About 22.4% of the respondents were knowledgeable on prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Having knowledge on PMTCT of HIV was significantly associated with urban residence (AOR = 2.486, 95% CI 1.160–5.328), education level of secondary and above (AOR = 5.445, 95% CI 2.698–10.986), those having history of antenatal care followup (AOR = 4.430, 95% CI 1.471–13.340), those with history of institutional delivery (AOR = 4.766, 95%CI 2.004–11.334), those having comprehensive knowledge on HIV/AIDS (AOR = 1.697, 95%CI 1.011–2.846), women who were knowledgeable about mother to child transmission of HIV (AOR = 2.203, 95% CI 1.37–3.54), and women who held discussions with their husband regarding HIV/AIDS, (AOR = 2.700, 95% CI 1.658–4.396).

Abstract Objective Migration is a contemporary global issue and the exodus of refugees may potentially posit new social health challenges in the host communities. Ethiopia is a host to the second largest refugee population in Africa. The aim of this study was to explore the health impacts by the Eritrean refugees in May-ayni camp, North West Tigrai on the host community. The research used a qualitative exploratory approach. Participants were recruited using a purposive sampling technique. The primary sources of the data were in-depth interviews of 20 key informants, and focus group discussions with 30 refugees and 30 members of the host community. Transcription and translation was done verbatim and finally thematic analysis was done using an inductive approach. Results The findings of this research indicated that the refugees in the May-ayni camp created actual social and health threats to the members of the host communities. The socio-cultural norms of the host peoples were disrupted in terms of their social insecurity and introduction of health related challenges such as the spread of sexually transmitted infections and other reproductive health problems.

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of male involvement in prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of human immune virus (HIV) and associated factors among partners’ of reproductive age women at Debre Tabor town, Northwest Ethiopia. A community based cross sectional study was employed among 561 study participants. Data was collected with pretested structured questionnaire. The data was entered by Epi-Info version 7 software and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Statistical significance was declared at P value of < 0.05. Results In this study, only 119 (21.2%) of males (95% CI 17.8%, 24.8%) were involved in PMTCT of HIV. Being government employee (AOR = 3.73, 95%CI (2.169, 6.419)), had ever heard about PMTCT of HIV (AOR = 2.46, 95%CI (1.20, 5.02)), discussed with their partner (AOR = 3.11, 95%CI (1.43, 6.55)), partners’ who were informed the need to go PMTCT of HIV clinic (AOR = 2.45, 95%CI (1.17, 5.14)), Health workers friendly approach (AOR = 2.36, 95%CI (1.34, 4.15)), and long waiting time (AOR = 0.36, 95%CI (0.216, 0.610)) were found to be significantly associated with male involvement in PMTCT of HIV. Improving service provision including respectful care and health education on PMTCT of HIV for males and their partners shall be emphasized by the government.

Abstract Objective Although Ethiopia has been implementing Option B+ program, LTFU of women from the Option B+ program is one of the challenges that minimizes its implementation. Thus, this study assessed the incidence and predictors of LTFU among women under Option B+ PMTCT program in western Ethiopia. An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted. A cox proportional hazards regression model was fitted to identify predictors of LTFU. A Hazard ratios with 95% confidence CI was computed and all predictors that were associated with the outcome variable at p-value ≤ 0.05 in the multivariable cox proportional hazards were declared as a significance predictor of the outcome. Results A total of 330 women were followed for a mean follow up time of 16.9 (± 7.6) months. An overall incidence rate of LTFU was 9/1000 person-months. Women’s educational status, residence, HIV-disclosure status, the status of women at enrollment, previous history of HIV and ART adherence were significant predictors of LTFU. The incidence of LTFU from Option B+ PMTCT is lower as compared to evidence from sub-Saharan African and strengthening linkage and referral system between clinics as well as establishing appropriates tracing mechanisms would retain pregnant women in the program.

Abstract Objective We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess perceived work-related stress and associated factors among public secondary school teachers in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia. A self-completed questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was entered into Epi-info version 7.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 20 software. The associations between dependent and independent variables were assessed using a multivariate binary logistic regression analysis based on the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and p values

Abstract Objective Evidence on treatment outcomes and their trend analysis through a register based retrospective study have significant contributions in the improvement of a national tuberculosis program. This study was aimed at determining tuberculosis treatment outcomes and their trend analysis. Results A total of 3445 patient records were included. More than half (58%) were males and the mean age was 33.88 ± 16.91 years (range 0–90). From the total TB patients, 18.8% were HIV co infected. The treatment outcome of TB patients were 371 (10.8%) cured, 2234 (64.8) treatment completed, 119 (3.5%) died, 9 (0.3%) failed, 178 (5.1%) defaulted and 534 (15.5%) were transferred out. The overall treatment success rate was 89.5%. When assessed on yearly basis, treatment success rate was 87% in year 2009–2010 to 92.8% in 2013–2014 with 6.67% change in the outcome indicator over the 5 years period. Among pulmonary TB, pulmonary negative TB and extra pulmonary TB, the rate of successful treatment outcome was 83.1% to 89%, 85.1% to 89.4%, and 87.4% to 92%, respectively in the year 2009–2010 to 2013–2014. The percentage of the overall successful treatment outcomes were significantly associated with the year of treatment (p = 0.014).

Abstract Objectives Globally, the research knowledge gap exists in the sexual reproductive health (SRH) services of street adolescents. The intensity of the problem is high in settings like Ethiopia, where there are limited access and integration of services. This study aimed at exploring risky sexual behaviors, needs, and barriers of SRH services among street adolescents in Nekemte town. A community-based cross-sectional study design with mixed approaches was used on a sample size of 219 street adolescents. Supplementary qualitative data of 24 in-depth interviews were collected from the street adolescents and SRH service providers. Time-location sampling or venue sampling technique (VDT) was used for a quantitative study. Quantitative data were analyzed by SPSS version 24.0. Results About 93% of street adolescents reported difficulty in accessing contraceptives. Behavioral change and sustainable access to SRH services are lacking among street adolescents. The Knowledge gap is more evident in early adolescents (10–13) period than the other classes. In general, street adolescents are deprived of access to SRH services. Mobile and flexible access to contraceptives should be designed targeting street adolescents.

Abstract Objectives Hypertension is a growing public health problem in many developing countries. However, there is an insufficiency of scientific evidence on the prevalence of hypertension (HTN) at a community level in the study area. The aim of the study was exploring the prevalence and associated factors of hypertension among adults in Nekemte town, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 711 adults who were selected by the multistage sampling procedure. Height, weight, blood pressure and waist circumference were measured with standard procedures. Data were analyzed by statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20, and multiple logistic regression model was used to determine the independent risk factors for hypertension. Result The overall prevalence of hypertension was 34.9% among the adult population. Of them, only 52.7% know their status, and 22.4% were on antihypertensive medication. The prevalence of hypertension was higher among the older aged; AOR 5.85 (95% CI 1.74–20), Obese and over-weighted; (AOR 1.71 (95% CI 1.09–2.67)), Khat chewers in the past year; AOR 2.44 (95% CI 1.05–5.68), and with higher formal education (college and above); AOR 2.75 (95% CI 1.26–6.03) than their respective counterparts. Community-level prevention and treatment of hypertension should get due attention.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to identify determinants of underweight among 6–59 months old children in Berahle Woreda, Afar, North East Ethiopia, in 2016. Result The median age (IQR) of cases and controls were 24 (34) and 18 (23) months respectively and 51.6% of the children were not exclusively breast-fed but 64.8% controls were exclusively breastfed. Age group of 48–59 months (AOR = 11.93; 95% CI 3.88–36.67), illiterate mothers (AOR = 2.32; 95% CI 1.19–4.55), low dietary diversity (AOR = 4.57; 95% CI 2.40–8.69), diarrhea in the past of 2 weeks (AOR = 2.93; 95% CI 1.46–5.85), birth interval (AOR = 5.17; 95% CI 2.37–11.26) and unprotected source of water (AOR = 2.62; 95% CI 1.42–4.85) were determinant factors of underweight.

Abstract Objective The purpose of the study was to identify determinants of late antennal care at first visit in health facilities of eastern zone of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia 2018. Result Women with unplanned pregnancy (AOR = 4.03, 95%, CI 1.56–5.67), Participants whose previous first antenatal care was after 16 weeks (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI 1.98–7.68), Participants did not accompanied by their partner for antenatal visit (AOR = 1.29, 95%, CI 1.05–4.67), women recognized their current pregnancy at 3 months or late (AOR = 4.7, 95%, CI 2.49–9.04) and participants provided adequate time for their previous antenatal care by health professionals (AOR = 0.461, 95% CI 0.342–0.875) were found the determinant factors of late antenatal care at first Visit. Hence family planning utilization, times of first visit antenatal, information flow and supporting by partners have a great role in improving antenatal care at first visit. There for responsible bodies should give focuses on utilization of family planning, increasing awareness of pregnancy symptoms and health provisional provide adequate time during visits.

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to identify socio-demographic and health related factors associated with caesarean section in Ethiopia. Results A total of 256 mothers undergoing to CS among 7193 delivery. Average maternal age of a participant was 29.26 years and 80% of mothers having two and more children. A woman delivered in private institution was 30% (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI 1.25, 1.32) more likely undergoing CS as compared to home delivery. Factors associated with CS were higher education level (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.07, 1.12), preceding birth interval (AOR = 1.01; 95% CI 1.00. 1.03), multiple pregnancy (AOR = 1.11; 95% CI 1.08, 1.15), multiple parity (AOR = 0.98; 95% CI 0.97, 0.99), large size the child (AOR = 1.01; 95% CI 1.001, 1.02), richest households (AOR = 0.98; 95% CI 0.97, 0.99), rural residence (AOR = 0.98 95% CI 0.96, 0.99) and Addis Ababa (AOR = 1.06; 95% CI 1.04,1.09). As a conclusion and recommendation, the prevalence of CS higher in private institutions and Addis Ababa, so professionals should apply CS alone medical indication.

Abstract Objective In Ethiopia, the majority of married women practice predominantly short-acting contraceptive methods. Therefore this study aims to assess intention to use LAPMs and its determinants among short-acting users in Health Institutions of Aksum Town, North Ethiopia. Results Prevalence of intention to use LAPMs was 52.1% (95% CI 47.4–57.0). Good knowledge on LAPMs [AOR = 2.15; 95% CI (1.29, 3.56)], positive attitude towards LAPMs [AOR = 3.41; 95% CI (1.99, 5.85)], 18–24 years of age [AOR = 3.18; 95% CI (1.30, 7.79)], being primary school in educational level [AOR = 0.34; 95% CI (0.14, 0.78)], decision on the number of children jointly with partner [AOR = 2.05; 95% CI (1.01, 4.18)], having more than two children [AOR = 10.67; 95% CI (1.29, 88.31)], and no [AOR = 10.21; 95% CI (3.10, 33.58)] and one [AOR = 4.70; 95% CI (1.68, 13.13)] extra number of children desired were factors significantly associated with having intention to use LAPMs compared to their counterparts. The intention to use LAPMs was low. Therefore, appropriate information, education and communication strategies must be designed to raise awareness and change the negative attitude of the community on LAPMs.

Abstract Objectives Pain is one of the most ignored clinical symptoms in resource limited country such as Ethiopia. Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is one of the most painful medical illnesses known to human. Very little was reported about TN from the sub Saharan Africa (SSA), especially from Ethiopia. We aimed to study the demographic, clinical characteristics, and risk factors of TN in sixty-one patients at two public and two private health facilities in Addis Ababa Ethiopia. These data will be vital to researchers and clinicians interested in knowing the pattern of TN in SSA in order to compare and contrast with similar data from the west. Data description The data set contains characteristics of TN patients. All the variables in the data set were coded by self-explanatory codes. The data set contains: demographic data, which contains age ranges and duration of illness; clinical characteristics data contains clinical characteristics, and risk factors includes such as structural brain abnormalities, family history, and dental extraction. Nearly 90% of the patients had Classical TN. The right side and mandibular branch of trigeminal nerve was commonly involved. Close to 40% reported previous tooth extraction history. Majority of the patients reported satisfactory pain control with carbamazepine.

Abstract Objective The primary objective of this study was to assess factors associated with food safety practices among food handlers in Gondar city food and drinking establishments. The facility-based cross-sectional study was undertaken from March 3 to May 28, 2018, in Gondar city. Simple random sampling method was used to select both establishments and the food handlers. The data were collected through face-to-face interview using pre-tested Amharic version of the questionnaire. Data were entered and coded into Epi info version 7.0.0 and exported to SPSS version 22 for analysis. Results One hundred and eighty-eight (49.0%) had good food handling practice out of three hundred and eighty-four food handlers. Marital status (AOR: 0.36, 95% CI 0.05, 0.85), safety training (AOR: 4.01, 95% CI 2.71, 9.77), supervision by health professionals (AOR: 4.10, 95% CI 1.71, 9.77), routine medical checkup (AOR: 8.80, 95% CI 5.04, 15.36), and mean knowledge (AOR: 2.92, 95% CI 1.38, 4.12) were the factors significantly associated with food handling practices. The owners, managers and local health professionals should work on food safety practices improvement.

Abstract Objectives Khat is an herbal cultivated plant growing mainly in Eastern Africa and Arabians. Chronic khat chewing leads to the development of liver toxicity, cardiovascular disease, sleeping disorder, psychosis, memory impairment, poor academic performance and variety of social and economic problems affecting the consumers and their families. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of khat chewing and associated factors among Jimma university staff. An institution-based cross-sectional study was employed on 354 university staff. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The analysis was done using Stata 14. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify associated factors of khat chewing among university staff. p ≤ 0.05 was employed to declare statistically significant factors. Results The lifetime prevalence of khat chewing among university staff was 41.0% (95% CI 35.9–46.1%). The odds of khat chewing was higher among males (AOR = 2.66 95%, CI 1.52–4.68), participants who had khat chewer friends (AOR = 2.15 95% CI 1.18–3.93), alcohol users (AOR = 9.02, 95% CI 4.96–16.42) and participants who had khat chewer family member (AOR = 4.03, 95% CI 1.16–13.99). Since a significant proportion of staff chew khat, appropriate measures need to be taken to reduce its prevalence and adverse social and health consequences.

Abstract Objective Laboratory professionals play a vital role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. Knowledge of workplace variables that either motivates staff to keep working or quit their jobs is important for decision making. Thus, this study aimed to assess intentions to leave workplace and associated factors among laboratory professionals working at public hospitals of the Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia. Results An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 16 to March 14, 2016, among 336 randomly selected laboratory professionals. The study revealed that 65.5% (95% CI 60–70) of professionals had intentions to leave their hospitals. Dissatisfaction with the provision of educational opportunities (AOR: 3.59, 95% CI 1.61–7.99), poor pays and benefits (AOR: 3.89, 95% CI 1.53–9.89), lack of recognition (AOR: 2.69, 95% CI 1.35–5.38), poor working environments (AOR: 2.77, 95% CI 1.45–3.30), high workload (AOR: 1.94, 95% CI 1.04–3.63), low affective commitment (AOR: 2.05, 95% CI 1.10–3.82), and being unmarried (AOR: 2.46, 95% CI 1.32–4.58) were factors significantly associated with intentions to leave. Magnitude of laboratory professionals’ intention to leave was so high. Healthcare policymakers and hospital managers need to develop and institutionalize evidence-based retention strategies to reduce the intention of laboratory professionals to leave their workplace.

Abstract Objective There is a scarcity of evidence on socioeconomic inequalities of childhood anemia in Ethiopia. We determined the magnitude of socioeconomic inequality in anemia and the contribution of dietary and non-dietary factors to the observed inequality, using a nationally representative data of 2902 children included in the 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey. The data were collected following a multistage, stratified cluster sampling strategy. We followed the Blinder–Oaxaca regression-based approach to decompose the inequality and determine the relative contribution (%) of the dietary and non-dietary factors to the observed inequality. Result We found a significant pro-poor socioeconomic inequality in childhood anemia in Ethiopia. A third (~ 33%) of the inequality was attributable to compositional differences in the dietary determinants of anemia (dietary diversity, meal frequency, and breastfeeding factors). Non-dietary factors like residence place, maternal education, and birth weight) jointly explained ~ 36% of the inequality. Maternal education was the single most important factor, accounting alone for ~ 28% the inequality, followed by rural residence (~ 17%) and dietary diversity (~ 16%). Efforts to narrow socioeconomic gaps and/or designing equity sensitive interventions by prioritizing the poor in health/nutrition interventions stands worth of consideration to reduce the burden of childhood anemia in Ethiopia and beyond.

Abstract Objective A health facility based cross sectional study design was conducted among 358 randomly selected HIV positive mothers attending at four health centers from February 1 to 28, 2018. Magnitude of HIV positive mothers’ child feeding practice and associated factors was assessed according to WHO recommendation. Data were collected using structured pretested questionnaire and entered into EPI data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 computer software for analysis. Result The magnitude of recommended way of infant feeding practice among HIV positive mothers attending public health centers in Gulele sub-city is 37.4%, 95% CI (32.26–42.67). Statistically significant correlates of HIV exposed infant feeding practice of mothers in this study were knowledge of mother on HIV exposed infant feeding practice (AOR = 1.80 (95% CI 1.04–3.01)), head of family being father (AOR = 0.17 (95% CI 0.03–0.87)), having family (relatives) support (AOR = 2.05 (95% CI 1.00–4.18)) and information on HIV exposed infant feeding, practice (AOR = 1.77 (95% CI 1.07–2.93)).

Abstract Objective Intestinal parasites are present throughout the world in varying degrees of prevalence due to many factors. The aim of this study was to determine the 5-year trend prevalence of intestinal prevalence among patients who had been suspected for intestinal parasite infections. A retrospective study was conducted from 2009 to 2013 at Poly Health Center Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia. Samples were examined using direct saline wet mount methods. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20 software and a P-value of

Abstract Objective We investigated this outbreak to describe the magnitude and associated risk factors due to the malaria outbreak in Tanquae Abergelle district, Tigray, Ethiopia, in 2017. Result Case fatality rate of this study was zero. Among the 62 cases and 124 controls, the presence of mosquito breeding sites [OR = 6.56 CI (2.09–20.58) P value = 0.001], sleeping outside a home [OR = 5.06 CI (1.75–14.61) P-value = 0.003] and having unscreened window [OR = 14.89 CI (1.87–118.25) P-value = 0.011] were associated with illness in multivariate analysis.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to assess the determinants of overweight and obesity among children under 5 years in Ethiopia. Results Data from a total of 672 (224 cases and 448 controls) under 5 years of age children were included in the study. Urban residence (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI 1.29, 5.34), boys (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.10, 2.22) and age of the child less than 6 months (AOR = 3.40, 95% CI 2.05, 5.64) were the determinants for being childhood overweight and obesity.

Abstract Objectives To assess the prevalence of antenatal depression and factors associated with antenatal depression among pregnant women in Aneded woreda, Northwest Ethiopia, 2019. A community based- cross sectional study was conducted in Aneded woreda among 7 kebles’ of North-West, Ethiopia from March 16 to April 23, 2019. A total of 342 pregnant women were recruited using simple random sampling. Result The prevalence of antenatal depression was 15.20%. Urban residence [AOR = 6.8; 95% CI (1.97, 23.32)], marital status of being unmarried [AOR = 5.1; 95% CI (1.79, 14.63)], occupation of being government employee [AOR = 8.8; 95% CI (2.06, 37.12)] and merchant [AOR = 3.7; 95% CI (1.27, 10.91)], prim gravid [AOR = 5.3; 95% CI (2.03, 13.82)], not attend ANC follow up [AOR = 8.7; 95% CI (3.46, 21.79)], intimate partner violence [AOR = 4.5; 95% CI (1.28, 15.52)], unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 6.2; 95% CI (2.37, 16.06)], and substance use [AOR = 5.6; 95% CI (2.12, 14.92)] were significantly factors. Strengthen the risk prevention activities so important to tackle the problem of antenatal depression.

Abstract Objective Although incredible progress has been made in treatment and prevention of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections, the epidemic continues to spread in developing nations. The information on the prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among voluntary counseling and testing clients in Ethiopia is limited. Hence, the study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among voluntary counseling and testing clients attending private health facilities in Bahir Dar city. Result A total of 382 study participants with the mean age of 25.43 years (SD = ± 6.87) were enrolled. Overall, 14 (3.7%) and 8 (2.1%) voluntary counseling and testing clients were positive for human immunodeficiency virus and Hepatitis C virus respectively. All Hepatitis C virus antibody positive individuals were males (3.8%). The sero-prevalence of Hepatitis C virus was significantly associated with the age group 41–50 years old (AOR = 65.65; 95% CI 4.57–943). Married study participants were also significantly associated with HIV infection (AOR = 7.92, 95% CI 1.32–47.31).

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of preterm births among mothers who gave birth in Axum and Adwa public hospitals, Tigray, North Ethiopia, 2018. Result This study showed that 13.3% from the total 472 mothers gave a preterm birth. Being a rural resident (AOR = 2.13, 95% CI (1.07,4.22), short inter pregnancy interval (AOR = 5.4, 95% CI (1.32, 22.05), previous preterm birth (AOR = 3.74, 95% CI (1.03, 16.34), Premature rupture of membrane (AOR = 4.14, 95% CI (1.92, 8.89), induced onset of labor (AOR = 2.49, 95% CI (1.06, 5.85) multiple pregnancy (AOR = 5.69, 95% CI (2.27, 14.28), malaria during pregnancy (AOR = 4.71, 95% CI (1.98, 11.23), Presence of chronic illness (AOR = 4.55, 95% CI (1.83, 11.26) were significantly associated with preterm birth.

Abstract Objective Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most serious global public health threats that exert a significant burden in terms of patient morbidity and mortality and financial crises in many developing countries including Ethiopia. Knowledge on the type of predominantly circulating pathogens with their respective AMR profile in a given area is essential for optimal patient care. This study was aimed at assessing the types of bacterial isolates and their AMR profile identified from a range of clinical samples at Debre Markos Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, over a period of 5 years (2013 to 2017). Results From the total of 514 different clinical samples processed in the stated time frame, about 240 (46.7%) yield bacterial growth. Majority of the identified bacteria were isolated from stool culture 68 (28.3%) followed by urine 56 (23.3%), ear discharge 54 (22.5%) and wound swabs at 26 (10.8%). Most of the clinical isolates were Gram-negative at 171 (71.25%). The predominant isolate was S. aureus at 41 (17.1%) followed by Salmonella species, 40 (16.7%), Escherichia coli 36 (15%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 26 (11.7%). Generally, the isolates were found resistant at (60–100%) against ampicillin, co-trimoxazole, doxycycline, gentamicin, norfloxacin and tetracycline. Gram-positive isolates were found relatively sensitive to ceftriaxone, erythromycin and vancomycin at (71–84%).