In many regions of Ethiopia, particularly in the study area, high-quality livestock feed is scarce, particularly during the dry season.Indigenous browse species could potentially ofer alternative sources of feed, but their potential has not been fully exploited, owingto a lack of detailed information. Without detailed information on the nutritional value of indigenous browse species, it is difcultto assess their suitability as feed sources. Tis knowledge gap indicates that even if these plants are abundant, they may not be usedefectively because their nutritional benefts are not well understood. Te objective of the present study was to fll this gap bysystematically evaluating the biomass yield and nutritional content of indigenous browse species. Te mean biomass yields forvarious indigenous browse species varied signifcantly (p < 0.05) among species, with Ficus thonningii producing the highest,whereas the biomass yields of Vernonia amygdalina were the lowest. Arundinaria species exhibited the highest NDF content(68.5%), whereas V. amygdalina had the lowest NDF content (46.8%). Te crude protein content varied signifcantly (p < 0.05)among the species, with Acacia albida having the highest (20.3%), whereas the crude protein content of Carissa edulis was thelowest (13.3%). Hence, the crude protein content of all indigenous browse species is sufcient to meet the maintenance needs ofcattle, sheep, and goats because, as stated by Kearl and NRC, the crude protein levels required for maintenance in these animalsrange from 7% to 10%. Te crude protein content of indigenous browse species is sufcient to meet the milk production re-quirements of sheep and goats because the crude protein levels required for milk production for these animals range from 12% to16%. For lactating dairy cows and growing beef cattle, Kearl recommended CP values of 14%–18% and 12%–16% required,respectively. Terefore, indigenous livestock producers should incorporate these species into their production systems to enhanceproductivity. Tis approach can also help mitigate the high costs associated with concentrate feeds, which are typically expensive.Keywords: biomass; browse species; nutritional composition; species composition

Background: Developmental delay is a group of disorders that cause commondeficits of adaptive and intellectual function in children. It happens when achild fails to achieve one aspect of developmental skills. Limited informationis available regarding the prevalence of developmental delay among childrenaged 12–59 months in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assessthe prevalence of developmental delay and its associated factors among thispopulation.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted inDembecha district among 702 children aged 12–59 months. Data were gatheredthrough face-to-face interviews, and by taking anthropometric measurementsusing a pretested structured questionnaire. Data were entered into Epi Dataversion 4.2 software and exported into Statistical Package for Social Science(SPSS) version 25 software for analysis. The WHO Anthro software was used toanalyze anthropometric-related data. Bivariable and multivariable binary logisticregression analyses were done to identify factors associated with developmentaldelay. The odds ratio with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was estimated todetermine the strength of the association.Results: The prevalence of developmental delay among children was 26.7%(95% CI: 23.5, 30.2). Toddler child age (AOR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.42, 4.87), lowbirth weight (LBW; AOR =4.90; 95% CI: 2.14, 11.48), cesarean section mode ofdelivery (AOR = 8.60; 95% CI: 3.93, 18.65), preterm delivery (AOR = 2.5; 95% CI:1.28, 4.74), early initiation of complementary feeding (AOR = 8.40; 95% CI: 3.61,19.63), stunting (AOR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.67, 5.22) inadequate meal frequency(AOR = 3.20; 95% CI: 1.74, 5.94), and inadequate dietary diversity (AOR = 3.10;95% CI: 1.68, 5.85) were significantly associated with child developmental delay.Conclusion: The prevalence of developmental delay among children was highin Dembecha district compared to the global prevalence. Child developmentaldelay was associated with toddler child age, LBW, cesarean section mode of

Background: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy regimen associated nephrotoxicity is a significantadverse effect that restricts the standard dose of cisplatin by impairing renal function. There is alack of data on cisplatin-based chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity (CIN) in Ethiopian patientswith gynecological cancer. This study evaluated the factors associated with CIN and its impact onthe survival status of patients with gynecological cancer at Northwest Ethiopia oncology centers.Methods: This institutional-based retrospective cohort study included patients with gynecologicalcancer who received cisplatin-based chemotherapy between 2020 and 2021 at NorthwestEthiopia oncology centers. CIN was evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria forAdverse Events (CTCAE) version 4 criteria and Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes(KDIGO) Guideline. A logistic regression model was used to identify the factors associated withCIN. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to determine the impact of CINonpatients survival. The cutoff point was a P value of < 0.05 for declaring statistical significance.Results: A total of 394 patients with gynecological cancer were included in the final analysis. Theincidence of CIN was 27.9 % (95 % CI 23.4,32.7). Old age (≥60 years) [adjusted odds ratio(AOR)=1.7,95 % confidence interval (CI) (1.1–2.9); P=0.039],low serum albumin (50 mg/m2) [AOR=2.6,95% CI (1.4–4.7), P=0.002]were significantly associated with CIN.CIN[(adjusted hazard ratio(AHR)=3.2,95 % CI (2.7–9.5), P=0.004]and cisplatin dose reduction [AHR=2.7,95 % CI(1.7–4.3) P=0.021] were significant factors of death among patients with gynecological cancer.Conclusion: More than a quarter of patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy developedCIN, which negatively affected their survival. This study recommends that prescribers pay specialattention to patients with older age, lower serum albumin levels, and high-dose cisplatin toimprove renal function and survival. Cisplatin-based chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicitysignificantly affects the survival of gynecological cancer patients.
Keywords: Gynecological cancer, Cisplatin, Nephrotoxicity, Factors, Impact, Ethiopia

This study aims and documents the clinical and laboratory diagnosis of bovine dermatophilosis, caused by Dermatophiluscongolensis that causes exudation and matting of hairs and wools with the formation of crusts and scab. An adult local breed bullwith a history of reduced appetite, pruritus, dirty scabs and crusts as initial lesion coalesce on its different body parts was presentedto Debre Markos multipurpose veterinary clinic. The rectal temperature and other vital parameters were within the normalrange. The clinical signs observed were exudative dermatitis forming crusts and scabs, pruritus, matted hair like a paintbrushand keratinized material creating wart-like lesions that were widely distributed in different body parts. Few ticks were observedon the skin of the bull suspected as vector of the disease. Culture of skin scraps on blood agar showed small, grayish-white raisedgranular and hemolytic colonies. Staining of skin scraps by Giemsa and Gram’s stain and cultured colony by Gram’s stain indicatedthe characteristics of Dermatophilus congolensis, etiology of dermatophilosis. Other laboratory tests also showed the characteristicsof D. congolensis. The case was treated by penstrep and ivermectin parentally and iodine tincture topically, and the bull showedprogressive clinical improvement and complete recovery within 2 months. In conclusion, dermatophilosis is an economicallyimportant skin disease, highly prevalent in Ethiopia, and needs early detection and treatment by penstrep intramuscularly andivermectine subcutaneously with iodine tincture topically in line with proper husbandry practices to control the losses.
Keywords: Dermatophilus congolensis; bull; clinical diagnosis; dermatophilosis; skin.

IntroductionCancer is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, significantly impairing patients’quality of life (QoL). Integrated Palliative Care (IPC) has been proposed as a holisticapproach to enhance quality of life by addressing patients’ physical, emotional, and psy-chosocial needs. While some studies suggest Integrated Palliative Care improves qualityof life more than standard care, the evidence remains inconclusive. This systematic reviewand meta-analysis aim to evaluate the comparative impact of Integrated Palliative Careversus standard care on the quality of life in cancer patients.MethodsA comprehensive search of databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase wasconducted. We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Integrated Palliative Careand standard care for cancer patients, focusing on the quality of life as measured by validatedtools such as the EORTC QLQ-C30 and FACT-G. Data were pooled using a random-effectsmodel to account for study heterogeneity. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed.ResultsNine randomized controlled trials involving 1,794 patients met the inclusion criteria.Meta-analysis showed that Integrated Palliative Care significantly improved quality oflife compared to standard care (SMD = 3.25; 95% CI: 1.20–5.30; p < 0.001). Studiesconducted in Asia showed the highest standardized mean difference (SMD = 6.15; 95%CI: 3.07–9.23; p < 0.001), followed closely by studies from Africa (SMD = 6.0; 95% CI:5.13–6.87; p < 0.001), compared to those from other regions. Similarly, research focusingon lung cancer patients showed the greatest standardized mean difference of (SMD =6.15; 95% CI: 3.07–9.23; p < 0.001) relative to other cancer types. Furthermore, studies
involving newly diagnosed cancer patients recorded the highest standardized mean differ-ence of (SMD = 5.69; 95% CI: 4.57–6.80; p < 0.001).ConclusionIntegrated Palliative Care significantly enhances the quality of life in cancer patients comparedto standard care. These findings support integrating Integrated Palliative Care into oncologypractices to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses both physical andemotional needs. Further research should explore long-term benefits across diverse populations.

This study examines the commitment and compliance of two key rebel groups in the Ethiopian Civil War—theTigray People’s Liberation Front and the Oromo Liberation Front—to international human rights norms, utilizingthe Jo and Bryant framework of human rights commitment and compliance for non-state actors as an analyticaltool. A systematic secondary document analysis was conducted, with data sourced from national and interna-tional media outlets, as well as reports from humanitarian organizations. The Tigray People’s Liberation Front ischaracterized by a more centralized and disciplined organizational structure, which has facilitated greateraccountability for its actions. In contrast, the Oromo Liberation Front has faced significant internal fragmentationand weak command, complicating the attribution of responsibility. Despite these organizational differences, bothgroups share a record of serious human rights violations, including the mistreatment of prisoners of war, masscivilian killings, forced displacements, and the use of child soldiers. While neither group fully adheres to humanrights standards, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front has demonstrated a relatively greater capacity to facilitatehumanitarian aid, although this aid is frequently diverted for military purposes, undermining its intendedsupport for civilians. This diversion reflects a troubling pattern of aid misappropriation that compromises theeffectiveness of humanitarian efforts in conflict zones. Conversely, the Oromo Liberation Front’s lack of coop-eration with humanitarian agencies further exacerbates the suffering of affected populations, underscoring theneed for both groups to reassess their commitment to humanitarian principles and the protection of civilianrights. The study calls for international actors to exert pressure on both groups to ensure compliance with at leasta minimum standard of human rights norms.
Keywords: Ethiopia, Civil war, Human rights compliance, Rebel groups

The purpose of the study was to examine the association between depression and substance abuse and to assess theirprevalence and associated factors. A cross-sectional design was employed. To collect data for the present study, 2 scales (Beckdepression inventory and Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement screening Test [ASSIST]) was administered to students.Two hundred fifty seven Addis Ababa Institute of Technology final year regular undergraduate students were participated. Theresults revealed that a high correlation was found between depression and substance abuse. The prevalence of depression is27.2%. Similarly, the prevalence of alcohol abuse, khat abuse, cigarette abuse and cannabis abuse are 25.5%, 17.7%, 9.5%, and3.3% respectively. Hence, the overall substance abuse prevalence is 14%. Alcohol is most abused drug followed by khat abuse.Cigarette and cannabis abuse take the 3rd and 4th rank respectively. Multivariate test of significance reveals that gender, religionand the interaction of gender with religion, residence, and ethnicity had an effect on the two combined dependent measures.Females are more depressed than males. In turn, males are more substance abusers than females. The researchers suggestedthat the university to establish its own substance abuse prevention and treatment working center which is open for psychologists,therapist and other health workers.Abbreviations: AAIT = Addis Ababa Institute of Technology, ASSIST = Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement ScreeningTest, BDI = Beck Depression Inventory, MANOVA = Multiple Analysis of Variance, WHO = World Health Organization.Keywords: alcohol, depression, khat, substance abuse, university students

Background Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a zoonotic pathogen that contaminates abattoir workers,slaughter environments, slaughter equipment, and carcasses during abattoir processing. Infection with E. coliis associated with the consumption of contaminated food and water, and it is a potential threat to the healthand welfare of both humans and animals. Hence, this study aimed to detect diarrheagenic E. coli and assess itsantibiogram profile in two abattoir settings, in one health lens.Methods A cross-sectional study in one health approach was conducted from December 2020 to June 2021. Atotal of 384 samples from abattoir workers’ hands, carcasses, knives, cattle feces, abattoir water and effluents werecollected. Bacterial culture and biochemical tests were conducted to isolate E. coli, while conventional polymerasechain reaction was performed to identify virulence genes. The antibiogram of diarrheagenic E. coli was tested againstnine antimicrobials using the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method.Results A total of 115 (29.95%) E. coli were isolated from the 384 samples, and from these isolates, about 17 (14.8%)were confirmed to be diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC). Among the DEC pathotypes, nine (52.94%), five (29.4%), and three(17.65%) were Shiga toxin-producing, enterohemorrhagic, and enterotoxigenic E. coli, respectively. While 14 (82.35%)DEC isolates harbored the stx2 gene, five (29.41%) the eae gene, five (29.41%) the hlyA gene and three (17.65%)harbored the st gene. All the DEC isolates were resistant to erythromycin and vancomycin; whereas, they weresusceptible to ampicillin, nalidixic acid and norfloxacin. Furthermore, 64.7% of DEC isolates showed resistance to bothceftazidime and kanamycin and 88.24% of the isolates showed multidrug resistance.Conclusion This study detected DEC isolates having different virulence genes, which showed single and multipleantimicrobial resistance. Given the existing poor hygienic and sanitary practices along the abattoir-to-table food
chain, coupled with the habit of raw meat consumption, this result indicates a potential public and animal health riskfrom the pathogen and antimicrobial resistance.Keywords Abattoir setting, Antibiogram profile, Carcasses, Diarrheagenic E. Coli, Virulence genes

The study is to examine the status and identify factors that affect the participation of dairy cooperatives and its impact on household income. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative data. The two-stage stratified sampling method was employed purposive sampling technique was used to select dairy cooperative for the study. A total of 582 households were sampled using proportion to the sample size methods and the study unites were selected through systematic sample random sampling technique. Primary and secondary data sources were consulted to collect the necessary data. Focus group discussion, Key informant interview, and interview schedule survey questionnaire were the primary data collection methods used in the study. Descriptive and econometric analyses were employed to analyze the collected data. Binary logit model was employed to assess variables affecting the participation of dairy cooperative and its impact on household income by using propensity score much.The household Age, Family size, fair price of milk, sex, TLU, number of milking cow, credit access and distance from the home to diary cooperative office significantly influenced the decision to participate dairy cooperative. Age, fair price of milk, credit access, number of milking cows, sex and credit access positively influenced the participation whereas family size and distance from the home to dairy cooperative office negatively influenced the participate of in dairy cooperative . The study found that membership of dairy cooperative has significantly increased on income of households. Thus, farmers should be encouraged to participate dairy cooperative. Therefore, the government and other concerned bodies should focus encourage households to promote the membership of dairy cooperative.

Introduction: Stillbirth is still a major public health problem in middle- and low-income countries. However, there has been limited research conducted to identify determinants of stillbirth in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of stillbirth among women who gave birth in public hospitals in the West Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia.
Methods: An unmatched case-control study was conducted among 418 mothers who gave birth from March 1-30, 2022. Consecutive and systematic sampling techniques were used to select the cases and controls, respectively. The collected data were entered into Epidata and exported into SPSS version 16 for analysis. Numerical descriptive statistics were expressed by using the mean with standard deviation (SD) and/or median with interquartile range (IQR), whereas categorical variables were expressed by proportions. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were used to identify determinants of stillbirth. The model goodness of fit test was checked using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. Variables having a P-value ≤ 0.25 in the bivariable analysis were entered into the multivariable analysis model. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was used to report the strength of association, and variables with a P-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 105 cases and 313 controls were included in this study. The odds of having stillbirth were higher among women who were illiterate (AOR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.34, 7.55), had first ANC visit in the second trimester (AOR: 11.4, 95% CI: 2.99, 43.71), had an induced mode of delivery (AOR: 8.7, 95% CI: 2.10, 36.03), history of stillbirth (AOR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.45, 4.90), bad obstetric history (AOR: 4.8, 95% CI: 1.44, 15.89), history of preterm (AOR: 7.6, 95% CI: 1.57, 37.21), not vaccinated for TT (AOR: 8.8, 95% CI: 2.23, 35.17), labor not followed by using partograph (AOR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.10, 8.42), and history of abortion (AOR: 11, 95% CI: 2.91, 41.31).
Conclusion: The determinants of stillbirth included women who were illiterate, started ANC visits in the second trimester, had an induced mode of delivery, history of stillbirth, bad obstetric history, history of preterm, history of abortion, not vaccinated for TT, and not followed by partograph. It is better to improve partograph utilization during intrapartum care and screen mothers who had a higher risk of adverse birth outcomes during their pregnancy to avert the problem.

Keywords: Cases; Controls; Determinants; Ethiopia; Stillbirth.