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Gezu Girma,1 Aklilu Tamire,2 Gebeyehu Jeldu Edessa,3 Mesay Dechasa,4 Obsan Kassa Tefasa,2 Abraham Negash,5 Jerman Dereje,6 Awoke Masrie,2 Samrawit Shawel,2 Miheret Mandefro,2 Gelila Abraham3 1Department of Health Research, International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Program (ICAP), Finfine, Ethiopia; 2School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Science, Haramaya University, Harar, Harari, Ethiopia; 3Department of Health Policy and Management, Public Health Faculty, Institute of Health Jimma University, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia; 4Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Science, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia; 5School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia; 6Department of Psychiatry, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Aklilu Tamire, School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Science, Haramaya University, P.O. Box 235, Harar, Harari, 3200, Ethiopia, Tel +251921211752, Email aklilutamire11@gmail.comBackground: The term responsiveness emerged during the World Health Organization (WHO) report in 2000 as new and essential goals of the health systems to meet the needs of people to their expectations from different services being given in healthcare systems. Obstetric violence and childbirth mistreatment are global problems, but the worst obstetric violence usually occurs in underdeveloped countries. Thus, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the responsiveness of obstetric service at Jimma University Medical Center.Methods: A single-case study design with quantitative and qualitative data collection was employed. Availability with 17 indicators and health system responsiveness with 24 indicators were used. Consecutive sampling technique was used to select the clients and qualitative data were collected from key informants. SPSS version 25 was used for the analysis of quantitative data, whereas thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data. A multiple linear regression model was fitted after all assumptions were checked and fit to ensure the relation of the dependent variable with independent variables.Results: The overall evaluation was 75.6% and judged good. The resource availability and health system responsiveness were 85.5% and 69.7%, which were judged very good and fair, respectively. A stethoscope and thermometer were not available, while 40% glucose, dexamethasone, and intravenous fluid were the most frequently stocked-out supplies. Dignity (72.1%), confidentiality (71.4%), and prompt attention (70%) were the top three good scores for the health system’s responsiveness. Health system responsiveness significantly associated with the following: Not attending formal education, attending college and above, place of delivery (health center), mode of delivery (cesarean section), and being merchant.Conclusion & Recommendation: The health system responsiveness of delivery service in study setting was good. All stakeholders should work for improving the health system’s responsiveness in delivery service.Keywords: obstetric, health system responsiveness, Jimma University Medical Center, Ethiopia

BackgroundThe annual number of surgical operations performed is increasing throughout the world. With this rise in the number of surgeries performed, so too, the challenge of effectively managing postoperative pain. In Africa, there are scanty data available that make use of multi-center data to characterize the quality of postoperative pain management. In this study using a longitudinal data, we have attempted to characterize the quality of postoperative pain management; among patients scheduled for major elective orthopedic, gynecologic and general surgery.MethodsThis prospective longitudinal study evaluated the quality of postoperative pain management in patients undergoing elective general, gynecologic, and orthopedic surgery. We quantified the prevalence of moderate to severe postoperative pain with the International Pain Outcome Questionnaire and the corresponding adequacy of treatment with the pain management index. At four time points after surgery, we estimated pain severity, its physical and emotional interference, and patient satisfaction.ResultsModerate to severe postoperative pain was present in 88.2% of patients, and pain was inadequately treated in 58.4% of these patients. Chronic pain (β = 0.346, 95% CI: 0.212, 0.480) predicted patients' worst pain intensity. Gender was not associated with the worst pain intensity or percentage of time spent in severe pain. Patient's pain intensity did not predicted the level of satisfaction.ConclusionsThe prevalence of moderate to severe postoperative pain and its functional interference is high in Ethiopian patients. The treatment provided to patients is inadequate and not in line with international recommendations and standards.

BackgroundPostoperative pain remains a challenge in the developed world, but the consequences of inadequately treated postoperative pain are particularly severe in low- and middle-income countries. Since 2011, reports have drawn attention to the poor quality of postoperative pain management in Ethiopia; however, our multicenter qualitative study was the first to attempt to understand the factors that are barriers to and facilitators of quality pain managment in the country. To this aim, the study explored the perspectives of patients, healthcare professionals, and hospital officials. We expected that the results of this study would inform strategies to improve the provision of quality pain management in Ethiopia and perhaps even in other low- and middle-income countries.MethodsThis study used a qualitative, descriptive approach in which nine healthcare professionals, nine patients, and six hospital officials (i.e. executives in a managerial or leadership position in administration, nursing, or education) participated in face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. Thematic data analysis was conducted, and patterns were explained with the help of a theoretical framework.FindingsThe barriers identified ranged from healthcare professionals' lack of empathy to a positive social appraisal of patients' ability to cope with pain. They also included a lack of emphasis on pain and its management during early medical education, together with the absence of available resources. Enhancing the ability of healthcare professionals to create favorable rapport with patients and increasing the cultural competence of professionals are essential ingredients of future pain education interventions.ConclusionsBarriers to and facilitators of postoperative pain management do not exist independently but are reciprocally linked. This finding calls for holistic and inclusive interventions targeting healthcare professionals, patients, and hospital officials. The current situation is unlikely to improve if only healthcare professionals are educated about pain physiology, pharmacology, and management. Patients should also be educated, and the hospital environment should be modified to provide high-quality postoperative pain management.

Climate change is among the pressing global challenges affecting sustainable development, especially in the rain-fed-based agriculture of developing countries. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) approach answers this question by ensuring high productivity, creating an improved adaptive capacity and reducing GHG emissions. This systematic literature review aims to provide an overview of the indicators, theory of change and impact pathways of CSA that lead to sustainable development. Using a systematic research method, four stages of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis) namely, identification, eligibility, screening and included were used for selecting the articles reviewed. A total of 37 articles were then used for this study. CSA interventions measured by the behavioral changes resulting from different stakeholders (producers, consumers, extension workers, policymakers and institutions, civil society and the private sector) can play a significant role in sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have shown potential to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Africa, but their effectiveness depends on specific interventions, context, and implementation quality. Challenges such as limited infrastructure, low digital literacy, and sustainability need to be addressed. Further evaluation studies are essential to summarize the impact of mHealth interventions. Thus, this synthesis focuses on qualitative evidence of the impact of mHealth on maternal and child health in Africa to summarize such evidence to help policy decisions. Methods A qualitative systematic review guided by the concepts of Intervention, Context, Mechanism, and Outcome (ICAMO) was employed in this study. The GRADE CERQual assessment and methodological constraints tools were utilized in the review to ascertain the level of confidence in the evidence and to examine the methodological limitations. The JBI checklist for qualitative research appraisal was also consulted during the review. Results The current review contains 32 eligible studies from databases such as CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, HINARI, and Cochrane Library. The review demonstrated substantial improvements in the HCP-woman relationship, communication system, maternal and child healthcare uptake, health-seeking behavior, and HCP skills. Economic capacities, maternal education, and the low quality of existing services challenged participants. Conclusion mHealth significantly improves maternal and child health outcomes in Africa. This review showed it can improve healthcare access, empower women, and contribute to the region's goal of universal health coverage. However, the challenges such as low partner support, high costs for services, and poor quality of current care as narrated by women need commitment from health authorities in the continent. The evidence from this review suggests that mHealth can be implemented to improve maternal and child health in Africa. Trial registration PROSPERO: CRD42023461425.

Abstract Background The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. Method A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. Result The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. Conclusion The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies.

The progress of technology in our current world continues to advance each day, benefiting human beings in various ways. One significant development in recent time is the emergency of automated vehicles, which have the potential to revolutionise transportation. These vehicles utilise electric power, sensors, cameras and sound navigators to carry out their intended operations without causing environmental pollution. Currently, there are several autonomous companies, primarily located in California, cities like San Francisco (Cruise), Palo Alto (Tesla), Fremont (Pony.ai), Santa Monica (Motional), Mountain View (Waymo), and Foster city (Zoox). This paper aims to review the utilisation level and performance of autonomous vehicles, specially focusing on the goals set for 2023. By analysing various research studies and company profiles, this paper aims to provide insights into the current status of autonomous vehicles and their practical applications. It employs quantitative and statistical methods to extract valuable information from these studies. Also, this paper examines the state of the art in autonomous vehicles and the impact of gaps in machine learning algorithms, from perception to execution. The data used for this study are obtained from research reviews and updated profile of different companies. The assessment reveals a significant increase in research and development activities related to autonomous and automated vehicles across various disciplines since 2010. Specifically, the number of research studies on autonomous driving vehicles has increased from 302 to 2718, while studies on automated vehicles have increased from 1379 to 6085. In the Engineering discipline alone, there have been 601 studies on autonomous driving vehicles and 341 studies on automated vehicle-related research, which have increased to 2685 and 1865, respectively in the specified time.

In farming technologies, it is difficult to properly provide the accurate crop nutrients for respective crops. For this reason, farmers are experiencing enormous problems. Although various types of machine learning (deep learning and convolutional neural networks) have been used to identify crop diseases, as has crop classification-based image processing, they have failed to forecast accurate crop nutrients for various crops, as crop nutrients are numerical instead of visual. Neural networks represent an opportunity for the precision agriculture sector to more accurately forecast crop nutrition. Recent technological advancements in neural networks have begun to provide greater precision, with an array of opportunities in pattern recognition. Neural networks represent an opportunity to effectively solve numerical data problems. The aim of the current study is to estimate the right crop nutrients for the right crops based on the data collected using an artificial neural network. The crop data were collected from the MNIST dataset. To forecast the precise nutrients for the crops, ANN models were developed. The entire system was simulated in a MATLAB environment. The obtained results for forecasting accurate nutrients were 99.997%, 99.996%, and 99.997% for validation, training, and testing, respectively. Therefore, the proposed algorithm is suitable for forecasting accurate crop nutrients for the crops.

Abstract Background Breast milk is the first, highly valuable, and solely natural food recommended for infants in their first six months of life, which is critical for children's overall growth and development. Evidence suggests that exclusive breastfeeding differs by geographic area in Ethiopia. However, little is known regarding the geographic distribution of exclusive breastfeeding practice. Hence, this study aimed to assess exclusive breastfeeding practice, its geographic variation and associated factors among Ethiopian mothers. Method The study used the 2019 Ethiopian mini demographic and health survey data. All living children born 0–23 months before the survey were included. Global Moran’s I statistics on Arc-GIS and Getis Ord Gi* statistics was used to visualize the spatial pattern and hotspot and cold spot areas, respectively. Kulldorff SaTScan was used to show purely significant spatial clusters. The associated factors were identified using a multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model. Statistically significant factors were reported using the AOR with a 95% CI and a p-value of

Abstract Background The desire to conceive and become parents is a fundamental aspect of human life that carries immense personal, emotional, and societal significance. For many couples, achieving pregnancy represents a long-cherished dream, but the journey to parenthood is not always straightforward. The duration it takes to achieve the desired pregnancy can vary significantly among individuals and is influenced by many factors. This study explores the factors that influence the delayed time of pregnancy among women with naturally planned conception. Methods An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 1 to May 30, 2023, in public health facilities of Bale Zone administrative towns, Southeast Ethiopia. Using systematic random sampling, 388 women participated in the study and a pretested questionnaire was used to collect data. Bivariate logistic regression was done, and variables with p-values

Digital technologies are essential tools that enable traceability in supply chains. In low-income countries, traceability represents a challenge due to the complicated structure of supply chains and the involvement of multiple stakeholders. This research developed a framework for a digital traceability system (TS), using the Ethiopian coffee supply chain as a case study. A literature review was conducted to gain an in-depth understanding of state-of-the-art digital traceability technologies. A logistics audit was conducted to map the coffee supply chain in Ethiopia and evaluate the implementation level of traceability technologies. Although the implementation of traceability technologies in the Ethiopian coffee supply chain is low, the results revealed that the usage of traceability technologies improves downstream of the supply chain. The traceability framework developed in this study ranges from a paper-based TS to a fully digitalised TS. The implementation of a TS in the coffee supply chain of Ethiopia is met with several challenges such as affordability, limited awareness, resistance of certain stakeholders, infrastructure limitations, restricted accessibility of some technologies and insufficient policy frameworks. Stakeholders from low-income countries can use the framework developed in this study to adopt a TS for their supply chains in line with their needs and current digitalisation levels.

IntroductionFollow-up discontinuation among people living with HIV can increase mortality and HIV spread within communities. This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 on follow-up discontinuation among people living with HIV in Ethiopia.MethodsThis longitudinal study used retrospective document review to compare follow-up status of people living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic with their status from 2017 to 2019. Data from selected health facilities were collected using a checklist, entered and cleaned in Excel, and analyzed in Stata. Descriptive statistics were presented in tables and line graphs. Incidence risk (IR) and incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated.ResultsBetween 2017 and 2021, a total of 7,447 people living with HIV were registered to begin ART at selected health facilities. Annual retention rates were consistent from 2017 to 2019, ranging from 0.941 to 0.949. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they dropped to 0.837 in 2020 and 0.840 in 2021. Retention rates were significantly correlated with loss to follow-up (r: −0.959, p ≤ 0.001), death (r: −0.968, p ≤ 0.001), and transfer-out (r: −0.979, p ≤ 0.001). Moreover, the incidence of loss to follow-up (IRR: 3.00, 95%CI: 2.71–3.33, p ≤ 0.001), death (IRR: 3.61, 95%CI: 3.13–4.16, p ≤ 0.001), poor adherence (IRR: 2.27, 95%CI: 2.14–2.40, p ≤ 0.001), and severe malnutrition (IRR: 2.32, 95%CI: 2.18–2.47, p ≤ 0.001) significantly increased during the COVID-19.ConclusionThe study found that COVID-19 healthcare disruptions increased follow-up loss among people living with HIV and heightening the disease burden in Ethiopia.

Teachers’ sense of efficacy have an influence on how teachers teach their subjects to students. This article studies secondary school English language teachers’ level of sense of efficacy in teaching reading skill and their perceived reading skill proficiency. Besides, the study investigates the relationship between secondary school English language teachers' sense of efficacy in teaching reading and their perceived reading skill proficiency. The researchers employed a descriptive and correlational design and used questionnaires to collect data among the participants. One hundred twelve teachers from secondary schools participated in filling the questionnaires. The two questionnaires are Teachers’ Sense of Efficacy Scale and Teachers’ Perceived Reading Skills Proficiency. The collected data from the questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficient. The result revealed that secondary school English language teachers had a moderate level of self-efficacy beliefs in teaching reading skills. It also found that teachers' perceived reading skill proficiency was high. Furthermore, the study found a significant positive correlation between teachers' sense of efficacy in teaching reading and their perceived reading skill proficiency. This implies that efforts to enhance teachers' sense of efficacy in teaching reading may lead to improved reading skill proficiency. The study also highlights the importance of providing professional development opportunities for teachers to improve their sense of efficacy.

Summary: Introduction: Over the last two decades, there have been some efforts to improve maternal and child health around the globe. However, the efforts are still lacking longstanding outcomes. Lack of awareness and access to information for decision-making has been an obstacle for women, especially in developing countries. This study aims to find potential strategies to improve maternal and child health using mHealth in Ethiopia to enhance service uptake and future decisions. Methods: This study applies cluster randomized controlled trials to test if mobile phone (mHealth) text messages can improve the uptaking of postpartum family planning and child feeding practices such as prelacteal feeding, initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, and complementary feeding. Repeated data collections during the first and fifth months enhance understanding of child feeding practice and its improvement compared to baseline information. It can also help to understand postpartum family planning practices among mothers. The sample size includes 672 mothers who are in the third trimester, have access to a mobile phone, can use mobile phones, and can read and understand text messages. Multilevel logistic regression, generalized estimation equation, and survival analysis are the models for final analysis. The models enable us to determine the percentage differences between baseline and intervention groups. Ethics: The team has collected ethical clearance to conduct the study from the Arba Minch University Board of Institutional Ethical Review. Dissemination: As part of open science communication, the team is committed to publishing the protocol, procedures, findings of the trial, and then the data. Trial registration number: PACTR202211547107725 Pan African Clinical Trial Registry.

This study aims at identifying secondary school English language teachers’ perceived and actual reading proficiency level and the correlation between these variables. The researchers employed mixed design and used questionnaire, proficiency test and interview to collect data from the participants. There were 112 secondary school teachers who take part in this study and among them four teachers were interviewed. The data gathered from the instruments were analyzed using SPSS version 24 and NVivo version 10 for the quantitative and qualitative data. The results of this study revealed that secondary school English language teachers perceived proficiency level of reading skill was high and that the levels their actual reading skills was medium. It was also found that there was a positive (r=.329) but not significant correlation between the teachers’ perceived and actual proficiency level of reading skills. This implies that there should be professional and skill development trainings given for the teachers. Besides, teachers should make themselves familiar with reading materials apart from the text book they are using in the classroom. The findings of this study could have contribution for other researchers replicate, educators to consider teachers’ proficiency and policy makers to give attention in formulating policy.

In this work, preparation of modified silica gel supported silver nanoparticles and its evaluation using zone of inhibition for water disinfection were investigated. The silica contents of the teff straw [TS] and teff straw ash [TSA] are 5.92 and 92.21 %, respectively. The calcinated TS ash at 700 °C was mixed with NaOH solution. The solution is then neutralized with HCl solution and then gel formation using the sol gel method. The silica gel yield was recorded and characterized. The SG with major silica functional group, amorphous structure, high porosity from the morphology, high surface area of 807.163 m2/g, pore volume of 0.34 cm3/g, pore diameter of 1.70 nm and silica gel purity of 99.39 % were achieved at a calcination temperature of 700 °C. It is then; further modified using trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS)/ethanol/hexane at different volumetric ratio and the resulting product is modified silica gel (MSG). MSG has excellent hydrophobic properties that have been required during water treatment. In this method, MSG with a major silica functional group, well ordered structure due to the TMCS modifier, maximum surface area of 510.40 m2/g was achieved at volumetric ratio of 0.25:0.25:1 of TMCS/ethanol/hexane, respectively. Then, MSG supported AgNPs (MSG-AgNPs) was prepared by mixing different concentrations of AgNPs-MSG and characterized. The MSG-AgNPs have shown AgNPs on the surface of MSG from the EDX result, different absorbance, pore from the morphology, with a maximum surface area of 475.0 m2/g was obtained at 1.5 mM of AgNPs concentrations. The performance of MSG-AgNPs was evaluated using zone of inhibition measurement and batch disinfection studies against E. coli and S. aureus. At 1.5 x 108 CFU/mL initial bacterial concentrations, the maximum inhibition zone diameter was 12.80 and 14.30 mm for E. coli and S. aureus, respectively.

The purpose of agriculture is to support humankind. There are currently 7.7 billion people on the planet and this figure will increase to nine billion by 2050. As the population grows, even greater amounts of food will be needed, creating a significant challenge for farmers. Emerging digital technologies such as hyper-automation have the potential to revolutionize conventional agricultural methods. This study assessed the current use of hyper-automation systems in agriculture and examined whether new uses of this technology could benefit agricultural industries. One example could be to use an automated variable-seed control system, which has reported seeding accuracy of 98 %, indicating a cost-effective solution. Overall, our analysis revealed that to sustain future agricultural production and ensure food security, countries throughout the world need to focus on hyper-automation in the agriculture sector.

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a major reproductive health problem that severely affects women’s quality of life in several ways. Women who suffer from POP silently wait to heal from their problem without seeking care until the disease progressively worsens. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess factors associated with delay in seeking treatment among women with POP at public hospitals in Bale Zone, Southeast Ethiopia. Design: Facility-based cross-sectional study. Methods: A total of 344 study participants were enrolled at public hospitals in Bale Zone, Southeast Ethiopia, from 20 February to 20 May 2023. A consecutive sampling method was used to select the respondents. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify the predictors of the outcome variable. Both the crude odds ratio (COR) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) along with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to estimate the strength of the association between predictors and the response variable. Results: This study revealed that out of 333 participants, 76.9% (95% CI: 72.1, 81.4) were delayed in the treatment of POP. The median time of delay for POP treatments was 36 [interquartile range (IQR): 24–96] months. Being a rural resident [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.23, 4.00], autonomous decision-making (AOR = 5.46, 95% CI: 2.30, 10.85), lack of support (AOR = 3.94, 95% CI: 1.64, 9.48), an embarrassment to see male health care providers (AOR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.09, 3.81), and a lack of knowledge about successful POP treatment (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.27, 4.14) were significantly associated with delay of treatment for POP. Conclusion: A large number of women with POP did not seek health care in this study: Being in rural, autonomous decision-making, a lack of support, an embarrassment to see male health care providers, and a lack of knowledge on successful treatment were associated with treatment delay. Educating women and the community to make them aware that it is a treatable condition and encourage women’s independence in decision-making on health care services in the family will improve their quality of life.

Introduction: Puerperal sepsis is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in low-income countries, which can affect sustainable development goals. Even though it is a preventable problem through maternal self-care practices, maternal-reported self-care practices regarding puerperal sepsis were under-researched in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the maternal reported self-care practice and associated factors among postnatal mothers for the prevention of puerperal sepsis. Objective: The study aimed to assess the reported self-care practice of postnatal mothers in Arba Minch town toward the prevention of puerperal sepsis and its associated factors. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was employed from 1st to 30th May 2022. Study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected by the Open Data Kit tool and exported to SPSS version 26 for further analysis. Both crude and adjusted odds ratios with a 95% CI were calculated, and a p -value of less than 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant factors. Results: Of a total of 423 postpartum mothers, 417 participated, making a response rate of 98.5%. The study revealed that 45.6% (95% CI: 41.2%, 50.1%) of postnatal mothers had good reported self-care practices toward the prevention of puerperal sepsis. Tertiary educational level (AOR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.43, 4.59), multiparity (AOR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.74), and having a good awareness of puerperal sepsis prevention (AOR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.40, 3.37) were significantly associated at a p -value less than 0.05. Conclusion: This study revealed that less than half of postnatal mothers reported good self-care practices. Healthcare providers and all stakeholders should focus on strategies to improve self-care practice during antenatal and postnatal care and at a community level, with a special focus on postnatal mothers with no formal education and multiparous mothers.

Urban agriculture is closely tied to several of the Sustainable Development Goals. It can play a critical role in helping to achieve these goals by promoting sustainable food production and consumption, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and creating more sustainable cities. It is also considered a pathway for overcoming food security in urban areas. However, this needs to be integrated with policies and regulations supported by sustainable finance. Due to COVID-19, conflict, and lack of infrastructure in Ethiopia, several challenges must be addressed to promote urban agriculture to aid food security. Hence, this study is conducted to examine how government policies and regulations promote urban agriculture through sustainable finance in Ethiopia. The study employed both an explanatory research design and a mixed research approach. Multi-stage sampling techniques that include (Simple random sampling techniques and judgmental sampling were used. The data was collected from selected micro and small enterprises engaged in urban agriculture. The structural and measurement model is estimated with the help of smart-pls software version 4. The study's finding implies that government policies and regulations have an insignificant effect on urban agriculture. At the same time, the study finding implies that sustainable finance has an important mediating role between urban agriculture and government policies. Hence, the impact of government policies and regulations on urban agriculture is found to have an indirect effect. Based on the study's findings, the study recommends that all stakeholders promote innovation and entrepreneurship that promote urban agriculture through sustainable finance.

Water treatment technology is advancing to extend the supply of pure drinking water to low-income societies. The application of biomass-based silver nanoparticles for the purification of water is among the outstanding innovations in this respect. Silver has less reactivity and excellent stability, which makes it preferable for biological applications such as drinking water. In this research review, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using different techniques of chemical synthesis, physical synthesis, photochemical synthesis, and biological synthesis was discussed. The synthesis of AgNPs supported by biomass-driven silica gel and its application for the treatment of water were found to be promising technologies. The use of biobased silica aerogel supported AgNPs for water disinfection has recently been the subject of promising research findings as an effective method for killing microorganisms from drinking water. The characteristics of bio-silica aerogel are unequalled, in large part because of its increased porosity, greater surface area, extraordinarily inadequate thermal conductivity density, and potent antibacterial action against both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureas (S. aureus) at low concentrations. These features exhibited that the synthesis of bio-based silica aerogel-coated AgNPs for water disinfection is a promising research interest for the disinfection of drinking water. AgNPs also have anti-fouling properties that prevent the clogging of membrane filters, which enhances their potential for improving water quality and safety.

In an agricultural system, finding suitable watering, pesticides, and soil content to provide the right nutrients for the right plant remains challenging. Plants cannot speak and cannot ask for the food they require. These problems can be addressed by applying intelligent (fuzzy logic) controllers to IoT devices in order to enhance communication between crops, ground mobile robots, aerial robots, and the entire farm system. The application of fuzzy logic in agriculture is a promising technology that can be used to optimize crop yields and reduce water usage. It was developed based on language and the air properties in agricultural fields. The entire system was simulated in the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment with Cisco Packet Tracer integration. The inputs for the system were soil moisture sensors, temperature sensors, and humidity sensors, and the outputs were pump flow, valve opening, water level, and moisture in the sounding. The obtained results were the output of the valve opening, moisture in the sounding, pump flow rate, outflow, water level, and ADH values, which are 10.00000013 rad/s, 34.72%, 4.494%, 0.025 m3/s, 73.31 cm3, and 750 values, respectively. The outflow rate increase indicates that water is being released from the tanks, and the control signal fluctuates, indicating that the valve is opening.

Abstract Background Situs inversus with levocardia is a rare anomaly in which the heart is present in the left chest but the abdominal viscera are transposed. It is caused by a single incomplete penetration of an autosomal recessive gene. It is unclear what exactly causes situs inversus with levocardia. Even if situs inversus can be identified following a comprehensive physical examination, it is now possible to validate the results and search for further information and pathologies since medical imaging is so widely accessible. Case A 15-year-old Oromo male child from a remote area of Bale Zone presented to the Goba Referral Hospital’s medical emergency outpatient department complaining of periumbilical pain that had persisted for 4 months. He frequently came to our hospital and was admitted three times with the same problem. Objectively, there was tenderness over the left lower quadrant and periumbilical area. The sonographic evaluation discovered the transposition of the liver and spleen with cardiac apex on the left side. He received conservative treatment with ceftriaxone 1 g intravenous twice a day and metronidazole 500 mg intravenous for 5 days, and he went home improved. Conclusion Isolated levocardia is a rare form of situs inversus in which the heart is in the traditional levo position while the abdominal organs are in the dextro position. What causes situs inversus with levocardia is unknown. Despite the fact that situs inversus can be diagnosed after a thorough physical examination, medical imaging has allowed us to confirm the findings as well as understand more about diseases. Due to the severity of an underlying heart defect, situs inversus with levocardia has a dismal prognosis.

Abstract Introduction Poor child feeding practice is a public health problem in Africa. Mobile health (mHealth) is a supportive intervention to improve this problem; however, the evidence available in the current literature is inconsistent and inconclusive in Africa. Some studies state that exclusive breastfeeding is not different between controls and mHealth interventions in the first month. Other studies state that health providers need additional training for the success of mHealth interventions. Objective This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide the summarized effect of mHealth on child-feeding practices in Africa to improve future planning and decisions. Method We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis based on the published and unpublished evidence gathered from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases between January 1, 2000, and March 1, 2022. Studies included were randomized control trials and experimental studies that compared mHealth to standards of care among postpartum women. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines followed for the reporting. Results After screening 1188 studies, we identified six studies that fulfilled the study criteria. These studies had 2913 participants with the number of total intervention groups 1627 [1627/2913 = 56%]. Five studies were completed within 24 weeks while one required 12 weeks. We included two RCTs, two cluster RCTs, and two quasi-experimental studies all used mHealth as the major intervention and usual care as controls. We found significant improvement in child-feeding practices among intervention groups. Conclusion This systematic review and meta-analysis showed that the application of mHealth improved child-feeding practices in Africa. Although the finding is compelling, the authors recommend high-quality studies and mHealth interventions that consider sample size, design, regional differences, and environmental constraints to enhance policy decisions. The place of residence, access, low socioeconomic development, poor socio-demographic characteristics, low women empowerment, and low women’s education might cause high heterogeneity in the included regions and need consideration during interventions. Registration number: PROSPERO: CRD42022346950.

Summary: Background: The undesirable effect of prelacteal feeding on children's health, growth, and development become a persistent health problem in low-income countries such as Ethiopia. It increases the risk of acquiring respiratory tract infections, diarrhea, and malnutrition. Without identifying and interrupting factors contributing to this practice, it may continue costing the lives of newborn children. Thus, this study to explores the individual and community-level factors that contribute to introducing prelacteal feeding and provides information on future improvement and policy decisions. Methods: We conducted a community-based quantitative cross-sectional study using secondary EDHS 2016 data collected from nine regions and two city administrations. We used 4,128 weighted samples of women with under-five children for this analysis. We applied a multilevel binary logistic regression to know the random, fixed, and mixed effects of prelacteal feeding. We used a P-value of

Ethiopian farmers face a combination of risks in agricultural production during a single crop season. However, cumulative incidence assessment of the risks in the agriculture was not researched. Thus, this study aimed at assessing the cumulative incidence components in the production of the mung bean crop in the lowlands of South Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was used with 384 mung bean farmers selected from lowlands of Gamo, Gofa and Wolaita zones. Thirteen original risk types were used to be categorized into a few factors through multiple factor analysis. Factor analysis identified latent variables with an Eigenvalues greater than one. The economic risk factor, the climate-related risk factor, and the systematic risk factor were the first three factors that explain 92.87 % of the inertia cumulatively. The rotated factor loading matrix indicated that under factor one, the encountered risks are an increase in the price of inputs, an increase in the price of food, and financial incidence, which accounted 50 % of the total variance. Under factor two extended dry spells, crop diseases, and wild animals’ damage and livestock diseases and deaths variables that accounted for 23.24 % of the total variance. The risk types categorized under systematic risks were social risks and political risks that accounted for 19.61 % of the total variance of risks encountered by mung bean farmers in the study area. Therefore, disentangling systematic risks is important by providing much-needed information to mung bean farmers and policymakers regarding systematic risk management priorities.

Teff is essential to most Ethiopians, but its production is hampered by farmers' characteristics and spatially related neighborhood variables. This study analyzes the neighborhood effect on the technical efficiency of teff farms in Ethiopia using panel data from the Ethiopian socioeconomic survey. The spatial Durbin regression models (SDM) and Copula stochastic frontier were used with 858 teff-growing farmers. The mean value of teff's technical efficiency was found to be 53 %, meaning that farmers had a 47 % likelihood of improving teff farm efficiency. The results from the SDM indicate a significant contribution of neighborhood effects for improving technical efficiency in teff farms. Thus, policymakers could explore implementing localized interventions and knowledge-sharing initiatives to disseminate best practices, innovative technologies, and agronomic knowledge within specific spatial clusters. By doing so, they can leverage the observed influence of neighborhood dynamics on teff farm efficiency.

Teff straw ash was first converted into sodium silicate solution, then processed via sol-gel, producing low-density silica aerogel (modified silica gel). A one-step modification method was applied to produce modified silica gel from teff straw ash. The method involved the use of trimethylchlorosilane (TMCS), ethanol, and n-hexane as reagents, with a specific molar ratio. Then, we used ambient pressure drying to complete the process. The modified silica gel had improved properties compared to the unmodified one. These chemicals were used to modify the surface properties of the substrate. The surface of the modified silica gel used in the sol-gel method was altered with a TMCS solution. We studied how the properties of silica gel changed when we used different amounts of ethanol, n-hexane, and TMCS to modify it. Using BET, FTIR, XRD, and SEM, the properties of the porous structure of the modified silica gel were identified. The optimal molar ratio of pore (ethanol/TMCS/n-hexane) for modifying silica gel was found to be 25/25/100. This resulted in a modified silica gel with a specific surface area of 909.25 m2/g, a pore size of 0.5422 cm3/g, and a pore volume of 2.670 nm. The functional groups of the modified silica gel were verified by the FTIR analysis. The XRD analysis verified the amorphous and crystalline nature of the silica gel and the modified silica gel, respectively. The SEM images revealed the surface morphology of the modified silica gel.

Pectin was extracted from coffee pulp using 0.1 M H2SO4. The Box Behnken Design based Response surface methodology was applied to optimize pectin yield. The impact of extraction time (45–75 min), temperature (80–100 °C), solid to liquid ratio (SLR) (1:20, 1:27.5, and 1:35), and pH (1.5, 2, and 2.5) on pectin yield were studied. Under optimal extraction conditions (84 °C, 75 min, SLR of 1:20 and pH: 1.5), physical, chemical, structural and antioxidant properties of pectin were examined. The results of the physicochemical analysis are: acetyl value: 1.10 ± 0.05 %, equivalent weight: 1429 ± 54 g/mol, anhydrouronic acid: 57.1 ± 0.9 %, degree of esterification: 78.5 ± 1.8 %, moisture content: 8.5 ± 1.5 % and ash content: 4.3 ± 0.9 %. FTIR analysis indicated the (-OH) peak of pectin was lower and shifted left compared to treated and untreated coffee pulp powder. SEM analysis shows a smoother surface, whereas XRD shows a less amorphous structure of pectin. The total phenolic and flavonoid content of coffee pulp pectin was found to be 26.7 μg Gallic Acid Equivalent/mg and 0.8957 μg Quercetin Equivalent/mg, respectively. Antioxidant analysis showed significant antioxidant properties (IC50 = 642.31 ± 30.43 μg/mL). The predicted and actual pectin yields at the optimal extraction condition were 14.39 and 13.7 %, respectively, with R2 = 0.95 that indicate the model can represent the experiment. Therefore, achieving a maximum pectin yield with improved antioxidant and other physicochemical qualities ensures that coffee pulp can potentially serve as a viable commercial source of pectin.

Background: Post-childbirth, woman's health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is significantly impacted, leading to decreased daily activity, reduced self-care, challenges with breastfeeding and baby weaning, and increased medical costs for both mother and newborn.This study aimed to assess the HRQOL and its predictors among postpartum women in Southeast Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Southeast Ethiopia between March and May 2022, involving randomly selected sample of 794 postpartum women attending immunization services in public health facilities. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire, and descriptive statistics were computed. A bivariable and multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to predict HRQOL, with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals used to estimate associations. Results: The study revealed that the overall HRQOL, physical component summary, and mental component summary of quality of life had mean scores of 43.80 ± 27.88, 45.39 ± 28.58, and 42.20 ± 28.15(mean ± SD) respectively. Walking to the health facility (AOR = 2.09; 95% CI: (1.31,3.31); using public transport (AOR = 2.58; 95% CI = 1.69–3.93); having the fear of COVID-19 (AOR = 1.46; 95% CI = 1.08–1.99); having health facility admission history during the recent pregnancy (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI = 1.08–2.44); having postpartum depression (PPD) (AOR = 2.13; 95% CI = 1.57–2.89) were predictors of a lower level of overall HRQOL among postpartum women. Conclusion: The study found that nearly half of postpartum women in Ethiopia have lower HRQOL, with factors such as transport use, recent baby's pregnancy admission history, and postpartum depression (PPD) significantly affecting their overall, physical, and mental HRQOL. Fear of COVID-19 was found to be significantly associated with lower overall and physical HRQO. The implementation of appropriate strategies addressing identified factors is crucial for enhancing the HRQOL among postpartum women in Ethiopia.

In vehicles powered by fuel, the effort to minimize CO and HC emissions through various strategies leads to an increase in CO2, contributing to global warming. This study aimed to experimentally assess the simultaneous reduction of vehicle tailpipe emissions of CO, HC, and CO2 using desirability function analysis (DFA). On predetermined routes in Addis Ababa city, two vehicles were tested for on-road emissions at five various speeds and on five various road slopes using a portable emissions tester. Surface plots were used to display how the tailpipe emissions of CO2, CO, and HC vary with changes in vehicle speed and road gradient. The DFA results revealed that the optimal speed for simultaneous reduction of CO, HC, and CO2 emissions was 40 km/h on a flat route and 30 km/h on a 2-degree uphill, with composite desirability of 0.83 and 0.72, respectively. This study found that a speed of 30 km/h on a flat road increased CO2 by 2.82%, CO by 18.97%, and HC by 5.28% compared to an optimized vehicle speed of 40 km/h. On a 2-degree gradient, a vehicle traveling at 20 km/h exhibited a 4% increase in CO2 emissions, a 23.92% increase in CO emissions, and a 1.26% decrease in HC emissions compared to the optimized speed of 30 km/h. Adjusting speed limits according to road gradients is recommended to minimize vehicle tailpipe emissions simultaneously using DFA. This approach contributes to lowering air pollution by reducing pollutant emissions from vehicles through optimized speeds.

Abstract Background Despite a large body of literature on the nexus between knowledge, attitude and practice towards nutrition and gender, this nexus is likely to vary and is not clear in many societies, such as Ethiopia. Objectives The study aimed to analyze the level of gender-based knowledge, attitude, and practice towards malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency using primary data collected from two regional states in Ethiopia. Methods Qualitative and quantitative data collection approaches were used. Qualitative data were analyzed using a narrative and content approach. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results Results indicate that female are generally more adept than male at identifying the symptoms of malnutrition. However, concerning vitamin A and iodine food types and its deficiency, male respondents had relatively better knowledge and consumption practice than female. Results show that there is very little awareness about biofortified and fortified foods. When we rate respondents, male had a relatively better understanding about fortified foods than their female counterparts. Conclusion Findings can support development agents working to improve nutrition in Ethiopia to focus on improving community knowledge and perception of biofortified and fortified foods to improve diet quality through increased micronutrient intake. The majority of the respondents were aware of the importance of consuming micronutrient rich foods and had a positive attitude towards them. However, there is still a gap in practice. It may therefore require more targeted campaigns to increase the ability of community members to adopt best practices while reducing barriers to consumption of nutritious diet.

Abstract Purpose Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection of sufficient rigidity and duration to permit satisfactory sexual performance. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and associated factors among adult diabetic men on follow-up at Goba and Robe hospitals, Bale Zone, South East Ethiopia,2022. Methods Hospital-based cross-sectional study design was used among 420 adult diabetic men from March 1 to April 30 using a systematic random sampling technique. An international index of erectile function questionnaire containing five questions was used to assess the outcome variable. The data were entered, edited, and coded using Epidata version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with erectile dysfunction. Adjusted odds ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence interval were computed to estimate the strength of association. Statistical significance was declared at p-value

The main problem confronting the world is human-caused climate change, which is intrinsically linked to the need for energy both now and in the future. Renewable (green) energy has been proposed as a future solution, and many renewable energy technologies have been developed for different purposes. However, progress toward net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the role of renewable energy in 2050 are not well known. This paper reviews different renewable energy technologies developed by different researchers and their potential and challenges to date, and it derives lessons for world and especially African policymakers. According to recent research results, the mean global capabilities for solar, wind, biogas, geothermal, hydrogen, and ocean power are 325 W, 900 W, 300 W, 434 W, 150 W, and 2.75 MWh, respectively, and their capacities for generating electricity are 1.5 KWh, 1182.5 KWh, 1.7 KWh, 1.5 KWh, 1.55 KWh, and 3.6 MWh, respectively. Securing global energy leads to strong hope for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as those for hunger, health, education, gender equality, climate change, and sustainable development. Therefore, renewable energy can be a considerable contributor to future fuels.

The topic of self-initiated professional development has garnered increasing attention among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers who are motivated to identify and address gaps in their professional development. This study aimed to investigate the perceptions, practices, and challenges of EFL teachers at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University with regard to self-initiated professional development. The participants consisted of 35 EFL instructors with 12 holding PhD degrees and the remaining 23 holding MA degrees at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University. The study adopted a concurrent mixed methods research design, utilizing both a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews for data collection. The study employed a total population sampling method and conducted semi-structured interviews with four randomly selected EFL teachers. Data analysis was performed separately for the questionnaire and interview data, followed by a mixed analysis to triangulate and corroborate the results. The findings revealed that the majority of the EFL teachers had a positive perception of self-initiated professional development, which was reflected in their practice of self-monitoring and analyzing critical incidents. However, the teachers did not engage in practices such as keeping a teaching journal, conducting action research, reflecting on their teaching, or developing a teaching portfolio. The challenges to self-initiated professional development were identified as lack of commitment, collaboration among colleagues, communication, and institutional support. This study highlights the potential of self-initiated professional development as an alternative means of addressing professional development needs among EFL teachers.

Abstract Background The importance of the health information system faces multiple challenges such as supply, acceptance, and pressure from other professions in Ethiopia. Work-related challenges might cause low professional satisfaction and hinder service provision. There is a paucity of evidence for policy decisions to improve these challenges. Therefore, this study aims to assess Health Informatics professional satisfaction in the Ethiopian health system and associated factors to provide evidence for future improvements. Methods We conducted an institutions-based cross-sectional study on health informatics professionals in three zones in Southern Ethiopia in 2020. We used a simple random sampling technique to select 215 participants. The local health officials were contacted regarding the research questions, and letters of permission were collected for data collection. Results Out of 211(98%) Health Informatics professionals who accepted the interview, 50.8% (95%CI: 47.74%-53.86%) were satisfied. Age (AOR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.53, 0.95), experience (AOR = 5; 95% CI: 1.50, 19.30), working time (AOR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.10, 1.70), working as HMIS officers (AOR 2.30; 95% CI: 3.80, 13), single marital status (AOR = 9.60; 95% CI: 2.88, 32), and urban residence (AOR = 8.10; 95% CI: 2.95, 22) were some of the associated factors. Conclusions We found low satisfaction among health informatics professionals compared to other studies. It was suggested that the responsible bodies must keep experienced professionals and reduce pressure from other professions through panel discussions. Work departments and working hours need consideration, as they are the determinants of satisfaction. Improving educational opportunities and career structure is the potential implication area.

In developing countries like Ethiopia, zoonotic diseases pose a significant health and economic burden, with high exposure of farmers to zoonotic infection given the prevailing traditional husbandry practices. A cross-sectional survey involving 388 farmers in the Ada'a district central Ethiopia was conducted to investigate their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding the transmission of zoonotic diseases. The respondents' mean age was 41.0 ± 10.0 SD years. The majority of respondents (39.4%) were between the ages of 41 and 50, and 90.0% were married. Farmers claimed that conversations with family, colleagues, and friends were the primary sources of zoonoses information. Farmers stated that the primary sources of information on zoonotic diseases as community. They had a relatively low level (66.8%) of knowledge on zoonotic diseases and half of them (54.9%) did not have good information on zoonoses. Three-quarters (75.2%) of the farmers reported that they neither consume meat and milk nor use offal and hide/skin from sick or dead animals. Similarly, 71.1% of them stated that they do not eat meat from regularly aborting sheep/goats, and never consume raw meat and milk. Most of the respondents correctly answered that raw meat (82.7%) and raw milk (79.9%) are means of disease transmission from animals to humans. However, considerable proportions of them were unaware of zoonotic transmission of bovine tuberculosis (61.3%) and brucellosis (74.7%) transmission through raw milk intakes, and risk of taeniasis (71%) due to raw meat consumption. But, considerable proportions had never dewormed (48.7%), or tested their animals for brucellosis (82.7%) and bovine tuberculosis (83.3%), and more than three quarters (77.3%) did not used personal protective equipment when handling sick animals. Farmers who had a secondary education or above (OR = 6.8, CI = 2.4–18.0, p = 0.004), aged between 41 and 50 years (OR = 3.0, 95% CI: 1.2–7.2, p = 0.015), and those having good knowledge (OR = 2.1, CI = 1.3–3.5, p = 0.002), and positive attitude related to zoonotic diseases (OR = 7.8, CI = 4.7–12.9, p

Pumps as turbine (PAT) for small-scale hydropower, pressure relief valves, and hydro-pumping applications have recently gained popularity. In contrast to conventional turbines, pumps do not have movable guiding vanes to accommodate changes in flow rate and head. This limits their use to the single best operating point. As a result, the precise estimation of reverse mode operating parameters is critical. One of the most successful techniques in this regard is the energy loss model. However, it necessitates extremely detailed pump geometry and experimental data. Although it is claimed to be more accurate, the lack of data makes it impractical. This calls for the devising of a pump geometrical parameter prediction model from limited manufacturer information. Using 137 sets of commercial pump operating data, geometry redesign was carried out by MATLAB code. Following that, multivariate linear regression analysis was carried out, and a one-dimensional geometrical prediction model was developed. Then the result was validated with computational analysis and measurement. The model results were 99 %, 100 %, and 95 % correlated for pump inlet, volute, and throat inlet diameters, respectively, with the experimental results. Similarly, the model results were also 99 %, 71 %, and 89 % correlated for pump inlet, outlet, and volute blade width, respectively, with experimental results. The model gave a more accurate geometrical result than the analytical and numerical methods.

BackgroundAdvanced maternal-age pregnancy has become a serious public health problem in both developed and developing countries due to adverse birth outcomes for the mother, fetus, or newborn. However, there are limited studies conducted to identify determinants of advanced-age pregnancy in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess individual and community-level determinants of advanced age pregnancy in Ethiopia.MethodsThis study was based on 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data. Three thousand two hundred ninety-two weighted samples of pregnant women were included in this analysis. A multilevel logistic regression model was conducted to assess the determinants of advanced-age pregnancy among the study participants in Ethiopia.Resultsmaternal age at first birth (AOR = 4.05, 95% CI: 1.77-9.22), level of maternal education [primary education 2.72 times (AOR = 2.27, 95 CI: 1.55-4.76) and secondary and above education (AOR = 5.65, 95% CI: 1.77-17.70)], having a history of alcohol (AOR = 11.8, 95% CI: 5.71-24.42), parity (AOR = 3.22, 95% CI: 2.69-3.84), number of household member (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05-1.41), family planning unmet need for spacing of pregnancy (AOR = 4.79, 95% CI: 2.63-8.74), having sons/daughters elsewhere (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.22-2.94), had higher community poverty level (AOR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.16-4.85), those had higher community unmet need for family planning (AOR = 5.19, 95% CI: 2.72-9.92) were more likely to have advanced age pregnancy. Whereas Living in an Emerging region (AOR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14-0.59) and living in a metropolitan city (AOR = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.03-0.38), were less likely to have advanced age pregnancy.Conclusionsincreased Maternal age at first birth, level of maternal education, history of alcohol drinking, increased number of parity and household members, family planning unmet need for spacing, had sons/daughters elsewhere, had higher community poverty level, those had higher community unmet need for family planning positively, whereas living in the emerging region and living in metropolitan's city was negatively affect advanced age pregnancy. Help women to have informed decision-making and create platforms to women have special care during this age of pregnancy. Empower women on family planning and socioeconomic status.

The common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) is one of the most endangered mega herbivore in Africa. Although the human-hippo conflict (HHC) is currently escalating due to habitat loss, little is known about the scope of the conflict and potential mitigation measures. From 2021 to 2022, the extent of HHC, the perception of local inhabitants towards the animal, and its impacts on the conservation of the hippo were assessed within and in the surrounding areas of Dhidhessa Wildlife Sanctuary, southwestern Ethiopia. A total of 227 households were used as a data sources, participating in the questionnaire survey, focus group discussion and key informant interviews. Direct field observations were also used as key data source. Crop raiding and damage (63%, n = 143), was the most severely reported source of conflict, followed by direct human attack (22.9%, n = 52). Livestock predation and increased hippo mortality were also common types of HHC in the area. According to the study, the majority of respondents (74.4%, n = 169) agreed that the trend of conflict was increasing, while 16.7% (n = 38) argued that there was no change. Food scarcities in the buffer zone, as well as agricultural expansion in the area, have been identified as major drivers of HHC. The majority of respondents had a negative attitude toward hippo conservation; however, there were differences based on gender, age, and educational level. The major traditional hippo conflict mitigation strategies in the area include guarding, fencing, and trenching. Field observation revealed that a large extent of the former grazing and ranging areas of hippo in the area are heavily encroached and taken over by large private and public agricultural investments. Vacating and recovering at least the former buffer areas dedicated to the wildlife in the area and modern, non-lethal mitigation strategies are recommended for better conservation and safeguarding of the currently good-sized hippo population of the sanctuary.

Scientists are looking for new antibacterial agents to disinfect point-of-use water sources due to the dearth of clean drinking water in developing nations and disaster areas. Because of the growth of antibiotic and disinfectant resistance as well as the emergence of multiple unfavorable effects brought on by using current antibacterial agents like chlorine compounds, this is the case. Because of their antibacterial properties, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have become a useful replacement for other nanomaterials. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of AgNPs embedded in modified silica gel (MSG). It was used to kill Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and to test its efficacy in water purification in a batch and zone of inhibition system. Trimethyl chlorosilane (TMCS) was used to modify MSG, which was then ground into powder using a process known as the ambient dry method. Using a reagent made from Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract, AgNPs were prepared using a green technique. With the aid of FT-IR, BET, XRD, SEM/EDX, and UV–vis spectrophotometers, the MSG supported by AgNPs was studied. E. coli and S. aureus were tested for their antibacterial abilities in MSG supplements with AgNPs samples. AgNPs have excellent antibacterial properties that enable zone inhibition and batch system tests with MSG. Batch system tests showed that both gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms decreased effectively after 10 min of exposure. Zone inhibition tests indicated that MSG with AgNPs was effective against both kinds of bacteria.

Maternal mortality occurs in developing nations as a result of inadequate health care, delayed medical attention and the inability to access medical facilities. The three-delay model was employed to determine the causes of maternal death. There was limited data on maternal delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care services in the study area. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care and associated factors among postpartum mothers at Bale and east Bale zones. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 postnatal women from April 6 to May 6, 2022. A systematic sampling technique was used to select study participants. The data were collected electronically using an Open Data Kit and exported to SPSS window version 25 for cleaning and analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable analysis was done by using a binary logistic regression model to identify factors associated with delay in traveling for emergency obstetric care services. Statistical significance was declared at P-value < 0.05. In this study, the prevalence of delay in reaching health facilities during emergency obstetric care was 38.1% (95%CI: 33.3, 43). The following factors showed significant association with delay in reaching health facilities during emergency obstetric care: Average monthly income (AOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.12, 3.14), distance (AOR = 4.35; 95% CI: 2.65, 7.14), a referral from other health facilities (AOR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.01, 3.11) and delay one (AOR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.7, 4.93). This study showed that the prevalence of delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care services in the study area was high. Promoting road accessibility and transport mechanisms and strengthening referral mechanisms shall be emphasized.

IntroductionVaccine-preventable diseases are the public health problems in Africa, although vaccination is an available, safe, simple, and effective method prevention. Technologies such as mHealth may provide maternal access to health information and support decisions on childhood vaccination. Many studies on the role of mHealth in vaccination decisions have been conducted in Africa, but the evidence needs to provide conclusive information to support mHealth introduction. This study provides essential information to assist planning and policy decisions regarding the use of mHealth for childhood vaccination.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis for studies applying mHealth in Africa for vaccination decisions following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analysis [PRISMA] guideline. Databases such as CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Global Health, HINARI, and Cochrane Library were included. We screened studies in Endnote X20 and performed the analysis using Revman 5.4.1.ResultsThe database search yielded 1,365 articles [14 RCTs and 4 quasi-experiments] with 21,070 participants satisfied all eligibility criteria. The meta-analysis showed that mHealth has an OR of 2.15 [95% CI: 1.70-2.72; PConclusionAlthough heterogeneous, this systematic review and meta-analysis showed that the application of mHealth could potentially improve childhood vaccination in Africa. It increased childhood vaccination by more than double [2.15 times] among children whose mothers are motivated by mHealth services. MHealth is more effective in less developed regions and when an additional incentive party with the messaging system. However, it can be provided at a comparably low cost based on the development level of regions and can be established as a routine service in Africa.RegistrationPROSPERO: CRD42023415956.