Eastern Ethiopia Research Articles

Patterns, treatment outcome and associated factors of surgically treated thyroid disease at public hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia: a retrospective cross-sectional study

BackgroundThyroid disease is a global health problem and the most common type of endocrine disorder next to diabetic mellitus, accounting for around 30–40% burden of the endocrine disorders.ObjectiveThe objective of the study was to assess patterns, treatment outcome and associated factors of surgically treated thyroid disease at Public Hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia.MethodsThe study was conducted among surgically treated patients for thyroid disorders using a retrospective cross-sectional study design by reviewing all patients’ charts. A data abstraction sheet was used to collect relevant data, and the collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 software. Bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression was employed to assess the association between dependent and independent variables.ResultsThe study was conducted on 200 patients’ medical records who had complete information. Out of this, 84.5% were female and 66.5% of patients’ age was between 20 and 40 years. Toxic goiter was the most common thyroid disease which accounted for 49.5%. Hemorrhage and Hypocalcemia were the most common complications after surgery. Anterior neck swelling of greater than 15 years [(AOR: 52.892 CI = 95% (6.087–459.5.68) (P-0.000)], Total/ near total thyroidectomy [(AOR: 20.139 CI = 95% (4.059–99.931) P-00.000] were significantly associated with complicated post-operative course, while female sex [(AOR: 0.124 CI = 95% (0.34–0.494) P- 0.003)] was associated with lower risk of developing post-operative complications.ConclusionThis study showed that 9.5% of operated patients with thyroid disease had complicated post-operative course. Long standing goiter and total/ near total thyroidectomy were significantly associated with complicated post-operative course.

Seroprevalence of small ruminant brucellosis and owners knowledge, attitude and practices in Chiro and Burka Dhintu Districts, West Hararghe, Ethiopia

Brucellosis is one of zoonotic bacterial diseases with significant veterinary and public health consequences in sub-Saharan African countries, including Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was conducted with the objective of estimating the seroprevalence of small ruminant brucellosis and assessing owners' knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) on brucellosis in Chiro and Burka Dhintu Districts in Eastern Ethiopia. A total sample of 444 animals were taken using a cluster based multistage sampling technique. Screening for Brucella antibodies and confirmation of positive test results were conducted using Modified Rose Bengal Plate Test (MRBPT) and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (I-ELISA) respectively. For the questionnaire survey, 444 randomly selected sheep and goat owners were interviewed using a pretested structured questionnaire. The overall seroprevalence of small ruminant brucellosis was found to be 6.5 % (95 % CI: 4.6–9.3). The multivariable logistic regression analysis identified sex and age as potential risk factors (P < 0.05). More specifically, females were 3.4 times (AOR = 3.4, 95 % CI: 1.2–9.2) more likely to become seropositive than their counterparts, and the odds of seropositivity in adult sheep and goats was 5.6 times (AOR = 5.6, 95 % CI: 1.3–24.7) higher than that of young animals. The knowledge, attitude and practices of animal owners with regard to brucellosis were low, and the level of education was independently associated with the owners’ knowledge and attitude. Moderate seroprevalence, combined with inadequate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of animal owners, makes small ruminant brucellosis a threat to animals and the entire community. Hence, strengthening veterinary services and raising community awareness about the disease is essential to reduce the impact on small ruminant productivity and minimize the risks to public health.

Effect of harvesting time on root yield and nutritional composition of orange-fleshed sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] varieties in East Hararghe

In eastern Ethiopia, sweet potato is a vital food and nutrition security crop; moreover, orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) varieties are rich in beta-carotene content and have the potential to alleviate chronic Vitamin A malnutrition in the region. However, the unavailability of adaptable varieties and lack of information on production and post-harvest handling practices have limited its production and utilization in eastern Ethiopia. The research was conducted to identify the proper harvesting stage of OFSP varieties for optimum yield and nutritional compositions at Rare and Babile research stations of Haramaya University during the main rainy season of 2022. Three varieties (Alamura, Kabode, and Bakule) and four harvesting periods (120, 150, 180, and 210 days after planting (DAP) in factorial combinations were evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were collected for growth, yield, and physicochemical composition-related parameters. Combined analysis of variance revealed the interaction effect of harvesting time and varieties had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on yield, yield-related parameters, and physicochemical components. Alamura variety produced comparable above-ground biomass (28.99 t ha−1) and the highest marketable root yield of 36.40 t ha−1 at 150 DAP, with dry matter content of 33.01 and 30.58 % at 150 and 120 DAP, respectively. Harvesting Alamura at 150 DAP also had the highest ꞵ-carotene, zinc, and iron contents of 11809 μg/100 g, 3.79, and 14.47 mg/100 g, respectively. It was concluded that growing the Alamura variety and harvesting at 150 DAP was better for obtaining higher root yield with good nutritional compositions in the study area.

Evaluation of Recently Released Finger Millet Varieties for Their Adaptability in West Haraghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia

Finger millet is a major grain crop in the west hararghe zone. However, due to major constraints like lack of improved varieties and drought, the productivity is by far lower than the genetic potential of a crop in the study areas. Thus, current study initiated to obtain high-yielding and stable varieties. The study was conducted in districts of Habro, Mechara, and Gamachis of the west hararghe zone, using eight improved and one standard check finger millet varieties at 2020 main cropping seasons. The experiment was laid down in a randomized completely block design with three replications. Analysis of variance for grain yield across locations showed significant differences at p&amp;lt; 0.05. Further analysis of AMMI indicated that environments, varieties, and their interaction effects were significantly different. Even if, tested materials showed a significantly different grain yield across locations nevertheless, the GGE bi-plot analyses implied relatively high yielding and consistent across environments for varieties Bako-09, Gudetu, and Addis-01. Therefore, these varieties of finger millet were recommended for further evaluation at the farmer’s field.

Facilitators and barriers of midwife-led model of care at public health institutions of dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia, 2022: a qualitative study

BackgroundThe midwife-led model of care is woman-centered and based on the premise that pregnancy and childbirth are normal life events, and the midwife plays a fundamental role in coordinating care for women and linking with other health care professionals as required. Worldwide, this model of care has made a great contribution to the reduction of maternal and child mortality. For example, the global under-5 mortality rate fell from 42 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2015 to 39 in 2018. The neonatal mortality rate fell from 31 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 18 deaths per 1,000 in 2018. Even if this model of care has a pivotal role in the reduction of maternal and newborn mortality, in recent years it has faced many challenges.ObjectiveTo explore facilitators and barriers to a midwife-led model of care at a public health institution in Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia, in 2021.Methodology: A qualitative approach was conducted at Dire Dawa public health institution from March 1–April 30, 2022. Data was collected using a semi-structured, in-depth interview tool guide, focused group discussions, and key informant interviews. A convenience sampling method was implemented to select study participants, and the data were analyzed thematically using computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software Atlas.ti7. The thematic analysis with an inductive approach goes through six steps: familiarization, coding, generating themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes, and writing up.ResultTwo major themes were driven from facilitators of the midwife-led model of care (professional pride and good team spirit), and seven major themes were driven from barriers to the midwife-led model of care (lack of professional development, shortage of resources, unfair risk or hazard payment, limited organizational power of midwives, feeling of demoralization absence of recognition from superiors, lack of work-related security).ConclusionThe midwifery-led model of care is facing considerable challenges, both pertaining to the management of the healthcare service locally and nationally. A multidisciplinary and collaborative effort is needed to solve those challenges.

Drug providers’ perspectives on antibiotic misuse practices in eastern Ethiopia: a qualitative study

ObjectiveAntibiotic misuse includes using them to treat colds and influenza, obtaining them without a prescription, not finishing the prescribed course and sharing them with others. Although drug providers are well...

In-hospital mortality and its associated factors among hospitalized stroke patients at public hospitals of Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundStroke is rapidly developing clinical signs of focal/ global disturbance of cerebral function, with symptoms lasting more than 24 h and leading to death. Data showed that stroke deaths in Ethiopia reached nearly seven percent of total deaths. Despite this report, there is a paucity of investigations about the problem.ObjectiveTo determine in-hospital mortality and its associated factors among hospitalized stroke patients in Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital and Jugal General Hospital, eastern Ethiopia from September 2016–August 2022 G.C.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted among hospitalized stroke patients. A sample size of 395 medical records was selected from a total of 564 stroke patients by a simple random sampling technique. The data was analyzed by SPSS version 26 using bivariable and multivariable cox-regression models. A p-value of 0.05 and less at a 95% confidence interval was used to establish a statistically significant association.ResultsOf the total, 109 (27.6%) died in the hospital while 57.2% and 15.2% of them were discharged with improvement and against medical advice, respectively. Age greater than 65 (AHR = 4.71, 95% CI = 1.11–19.96), creatinine level > 1.2 mg/dl (AHR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.0-2.39), and co-morbidity with atrial fibrillation (AHR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.0-2.21) were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality.ConclusionIn-hospital mortality was found in more than a quarter of stroke patients. Mortality was more likely increased among the patients with age > 65, serum creatinine level > 1.2 mg/dl, and atrial fibrillation. Hence, these high-risk patients need to be monitored.

A Study of the Effect of Sorghum Varieties and Cowpea Intercropping on Land Productivity and Competition Index in Fedis District, Eastern Ethiopia

Now a day human population increasing rapidly and cause land shortage land degradation, and poor soil fertility. Intercropping provides an opportunity to harness available resources by the cultivation of two or more crops planted simultaneously in the same land to produced cereal-legume for food and feed. A field study was conducted in Fedis District in 2018 to determine the impact of intercropping early maturing sorghum varieties and cowpeas on the land productivity and competition index. With a total of 11 treatments; two cowpea cultivars (9333 and 9334) and three varieties of early maturing sorghum (Teshale, Birhan and Melkam), their intercropping and sole cropping were determined using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Intercropping of sorghum-cowpea varieties produced significantly higher total land productivity than sole cropping of both varieties. The value of land equivalent ratio ranges from 1.21 for Sorghum (Teshale) + Cowpea (9334) to 1.36 for sorghum (Birhan) + cowpea (9333) and the overall mean was obtained as 1.30. The Percentage of the land saved of grain yields obtained was ranges 17.37% to 26.47% from of sorghum Teshale + cowpea varieties (9334) to sorghum Birhan + cowpea varieties (9333) and for Biomass yield production recorded from 27.01% to 36.71% that obtained from sorghum Melkam + cowpea (9333) and sorghum Birhan + cowpea (9334). Intercropped of sorghum-cowpea over all mean 23.25% for grain yield and 31.515% for biomass land was saved than sowing alone. Based on the result sorghum-cowpea intercropped, had the strength of relationship interaction and compatible; preferably sorghum Melkam + cowpea (9333) appropriate to increase the productions in study area and with similar agro-ecology.

Introduction pages, Nova Geodesia 4(3), 2024

Nova Geodesia (https://novageodesia.ro), Issue 3, Volume 4, 2024: The papers published in this issue represent interesting novelties in different topics of geodetic science or related fields. Nova Geodesia publishes significant papers in geodesy and close topics related to cartography, engineering projects and construction, planetology, hydrography, geography, sociodemographic factors, urban administration, planning and environment, landscape, biodiversity, and ecology. Among the exciting articles, we invite readers to find news about: Forest sampling techniques in different types of vegetation applying plot sampling, non-plot sampling, and remote sensing; Soil surface erosion susceptibility analysis using the USLE model. Case study: Bran - Dragoslavele Corridor, Romania; Feeding butterflies with Tridax procumbens (L.), a beneficial plant for maintaining butterfly populations; Impacts of climate-smart soil and water conservation practices and slope gradient on selected soil chemical properties in Eastern Ethiopia: A case study of the Kulkullessa Sub-watershed, Goro Gutu District; Comparative assessment of different rose cultivars under environmental conditions in central Transylvania, Romania; Plants associated with water towers in the Saharan environment: Floristic diversity and therapeutic virtues.

Assessing fecal contamination from human and environmental sources using Escherichia coli as an indicator in rural eastern Ethiopian households - a study from the EXCAM project.

Enteric pathogens are a leading causes of diarrheal deaths in low- and middle-income countries. The Exposure Assessment of Campylobacter Infections in Rural Ethiopia (EXCAM) project, aims to identify potential sources of bacteria in the genus Campylobacter and, more generally, fecal contamination of infants during the first 1.5 years of life using Escherichia coli as indicator. A total of 1,310 samples (i.e., hand rinses from the infant, sibling and mother, drinking and bathing water, food and fomite provided to or touched by the infants, areola swabs, breast milk and soil) were collected from 76 households between May 2021 and June 2022. Samples were assigned to two groups by infant age: TP1 (time point 1), infants between 4 and 8 months of age, and TP2, infants between 11 and 15 months of age. Fluorometric and semi-selective colorimetric approaches were used to quantify E. coli in the field samples. Overall, E. coli was ubiquitous within selected households (56.8% across the study). E. coli was more frequently detected than average (>53%) with high concentration (>2-log CFU) in soil (g) and per pair of hand, while the opposite trend (<33%; <1.5-log CFU) was observed in food provided to the infants (g or ml), per areola, and breast milk (ml; P<0.01). E. coli was frequently detected in fomites touched by the infants, drinking and bathing water (>51%), but at low concentration (<1.5-log CFU). Correlation analysis between E. coli concentration in different sample types suggested that the mother's hands might play a key role in the transmission of E. coli between the environment (i.e., soil, bathing water and fomites) and other family members (i.e., infant and sibling; P<0.04; r2>0.3). Using E. coli as surrogate, our study identified mother (hands and areola) as reservoirs likely to be involved in frequent transmission of fecal contaminants to infants within rural Ethiopian households.

Predominance of Dengue Virus Serotype-1/Genotype-I in Eastern and Southeastern Ethiopia.

We determined the dengue virus (DENV) serotypes and genotypes in archived serum samples that were collected during the 2014-2016 and 2021 dengue outbreaks in Dire Dawa City and the Somali region in Ethiopia. DENV serotype 1 (DENV-1) was predominant followed by DENV serotype 2 (DENV-2). Thirteen of the DENV-1 strains were assigned to Genotype-I, while the remaining two were found to be Genotype-III. All three DENV-2 strains were assigned the Cosmopolitan Genotype. The DENV strains responsible for the outbreaks are genetically closely related to the DENV strains that circulated in neighboring and Asian countries. The findings also showed continued local transmission of a monophyletic lineage and a co-circulation of DENV-1 and DENV-2 during the outbreaks. There is a need to strengthen DENV genomic surveillance capacity for the early detection of circulating serotypes, and prevent devastating consequences of future outbreaks due to the co-circulation of different serotypes.

Bread wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) varieties trails: Farmer Preference, Adaptation and Performance in irrigable lowland area of eastern Hararghe zone, eastern Ethiopia

Bread wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) varieties trails: Farmer Preference, Adaptation and Performance in irrigable lowland area of eastern Hararghe zone, eastern Ethiopia

Quality of Life and Its Associated Factors Among Patients with Psoriasis Attending the Dermatology Department at Public Hospitals in Harar Town, Eastern Ethiopia

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Background&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: Psoriasis is a skin disorder that inflames the skin and joints, increasing susceptibility to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. It is more common in higher-altitude areas and affects 100 million people worldwide. Understanding the subtypes and treatments is crucial for the management of the condition. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Method&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: The study used a cross-sectional design to assess quality of life and identify factors associated with poor quality of life among patients with psoriasis in the region. The study involved 219 patients. Data collection was carried out through structured interviews with patients with psoriasis attending public hospitals in Harar, eastern Ethiopia. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyzes were performed to identify factors associated with poor quality of life among patients with psoriasis. Variables demonstrating a p-value &amp;gt; 0.20 in bivariate analyzes were included in the multivariate logistic regression model. Statistical significance was determined with a p-value &amp;lt; 0.05. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Results&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: the proportion of poor quality of life was 54.8%. Factors associated with poor quality of life could not read and write (AOR = 14, 95% CI 2.08, 94.2), Duration of more than 5 years (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.49, 6.41), New body site and in disease patients at both sites (AOR = 9.2, 95% CI 2.96, 28.56) and (AOR = 7.2, 95% CI 2.37, 21.95), respectively. Moderate affected body surface area (AOR= 2.98, 95% CI 1.15, 6.41)). And have a comorbidity (AOR= 2.69, 95%CI: 1.01, 7.20). &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusions&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: The study revealed that 54.8% of the patients experienced severe quality of life impairment, with factors such as illiteracy, duration of the disease over five years, psoriasis at new sites of the body, moderate body surface area affected, and comorbidities significantly associated with poor quality of life. The study shed light on the challenges faced by patients with psoriasis in Harar, highlighting the need for comprehensive care strategies to improve their quality of life and well-being.

Assessment of extreme climate indices in the Somalia National Regional State, eastern Ethiopia

Assessment of extreme climate indices in the Somalia National Regional State, eastern Ethiopia

Center–periphery relations in Ethiopia during the Dergue (1974–1991): the case of Afar

ABSTRACT The concept of center–periphery relations extends from the relations of the central government and peoples of not so highly organized peripheries within a state to the relations between developed and developing nations. These relations are dynamic and flexible and can be influenced by national, regional, and international developments such as political changes. The center–periphery relations in Ethiopia are periodically categorized as pre-1974, militaristic period (1974–1991), and post-1991. In this paper, I try to show the change and continuity of the center–periphery relationship of Afar people in Ethiopia from 1974 to 1991. Using the available sources, I try to demonstrate the nature of center–periphery relationship between the military government and the Afar people as center and periphery, respectively. In addition, I try to show the determining factors that affect the center–periphery relations in the period under study. The Afar Triangle, which is composed of north eastern Ethiopia, south eastern Eritrea, and Djibouti, is the natural border between Africa and the Arab world and the main trade line of Ethiopia to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Afar people of Ethiopia and Eritrea were under the rule of the Dergue government. The ideological change and reforms following the 1974 revolution, insurgencies movement in the region, and foreign relations and external trade determined the relations between the central government and the Afar people. Although there was an attempt to handle the people of Afar through sharing power and resources, the center continued to dominate power and resources in the region.

Determinants of preeclampsia among women who gave birth at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia: a case–control study

Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are the second leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity. It also results in high perinatal mortality and morbidity. Since eclampsia is preceded by preeclampsia and shows the progression of the disease, they share the same pathogenesis and determining factors. The purpose of this study was to determine determinants of preeclampsia, since it is essential for its prevention and/or its associated consequences. An unmatched case–control study was conducted from September 1–30, 2023 among women who gave birth from June 1, 2020, to August 31, 2023, at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital. Women who had preeclampsia were considered cases, while those without were controls. The sample size was calculated using EPI Info version 7 for a case–control study using the following assumptions: 95% confidence interval, power of 80%, case-to-control ratio of 1:2, and 5% non-response rate were 305. Data was collected using Google Form, and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Variables that had a p-value of < 0.05 on multivariable logistic regression were considered statistically significant, and their association was explained using an odds ratio at a 95% confidence interval. A total of 300 women (100 cases and 200 controls) with a mean age of 24.4 years were included in the study. Rural residence (AOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.10–3.76), age less than 20 years (AOR 3.04, 95% CI 1.58–5.85), history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (AOR 5.52, 95% CI 1.76–17.33), and no antenatal care (AOR 2.38, 95% CI 1.19–4.75) were found to be the determinants of preeclampsia. We found that living in a rural areas, previous history of preeclampsia, no antenatal care, and < 20 years of age were significantly associated with preeclampsia. In addition to previous preeclampsia, younger and rural resident pregnant women should be given attention in preeclampsia screening and prevention.

Determinants of preterm birth among mothers who gave birth at Shiek Hassan Yabare Referral Hospital in Jigjiga town, Eastern Ethiopia: Unmatched case-control study

Determinants of preterm birth among mothers who gave birth at Shiek Hassan Yabare Referral Hospital in Jigjiga town, Eastern Ethiopia: Unmatched case-control study

Rock slope stability analysis of a limestone quarry in a case study of a National Cement Factory in Eastern Ethiopia

Rock slope failures pose significant challenges in geotechnical engineering due to the intricate nature of rock masses, discontinuities, and various destabilizing factors during and after excavation. In mining industries, such as national cement factories, multi-benched excavation systems are commonly used for quarrying. However, cut slopes are often designed with steep angles to maximize economic benefits, inadvertently neglecting critical slope stability issues. This oversight can lead to slope instability, endangering human lives and property. This study focuses on analyzing the stability of existing quarry cut slopes, estimating their final depth, and conducting a parametric study of geometric profiles including bench height, width, face angle, and rump width. Kinematic analysis helps identify potential failure modes. The results reveal that the existing quarry cut slope is prone to toppling, wedge failure, and planar failure with probabilities of 42.68%, 19.53%, and 14.23%, respectively. Numerical modeling using the finite element method (Phase2 8.0 software) was performed under both static and dynamic loading conditions. The shear reduction factor (SRF) of the existing quarry cut slope was 1.01 under static loading and 0.86 under dynamic loading. Similarly, for the estimated depth, the SRF was 0.82 under static loading and 0.7 under dynamic loading. These values indicate that the slope stability falls significantly below the minimum acceptable SRF, rendering it unstable. The parametric study highlights the face angle of the bench as the most influential parameter in slope stability. By adjusting the bench face angle from 90° to 75°, 70°, and 65°, the SRF increased by 31.6%, 35.4%, and 37.9%, respectively. Among these, a 70° bench face angle is recommended for optimal stability with a SRF of 1.27 under static loading and 1.18 under dynamic loading.

Time to recovery from moderate acute malnutrition and its predictors among children aged 6-59 months in Fedis Woreda, East Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia.

Acute malnutrition is a major global public health problem, particularly in low-and middle-income countries. A targeted supplementary feeding program is an approach recommended to address moderate acute malnutrition in food-insecure settings. Preventing and treating moderate acute malnutrition requires identifying factors shown to affect the treatment outcome and duration of stay on treatment. This study aimed to determine the time to recovery from moderate acute malnutrition and its predictors among children aged 6-59 months in Fedis Woreda East Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia, from January 1 to December 31, 2022. A facility-based retrospective cohort study was conducted on 567 children with moderate acute malnutrition in Fedis Woreda, East Hararghe Zone, eastern Ethiopia. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed, and data was collected using a structured checklist. Data were extracted from randomly selected records after obtaining ethical clearance. Data were cleaned, coded, entered into EpiData 4.6, and analyzed using STATA/SE version 14. Descriptive statistics and analytic analysis schemes, including bivariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, were conducted, and finally, statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05. The overall median time to recovery was 16 weeks. The major predicting factors for time to recovery among children aged 6-59 months were admission with a mid-upper arm circumference of 12.1-12.4 centimeters (AHR = 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01-1.19), access to transportation to facilities (AHR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.36-0.81), children using specialized nutritious foods (RUSF; AHR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.36-3.11), and children who had diarrhea (AHR = 0.4, 95% CI: 0.31-0.71). The study found a median recovery time of 16 weeks for children with targeted supplementary feeding. Significant predictors included admission with a MUAC of 12.1-12.4 centimeters, transportation access, RUSF use, and the presence of diarrhea. These findings highlighted the importance of these factors in determining and improving recovery from moderate-acute malnutrition.

Integrated machine learning and geospatial analysis enhanced gully erosion susceptibility modeling in the Erer watershed in Eastern Ethiopia

Land degradation from gully erosion poses a significant threat to the Erer watershed in Eastern Ethiopia, particularly due to agricultural activities and resource exploitation. Identifying erosion-prone areas and underlying factors using advanced machine learning algorithms (MLAs) and geospatial analysis is crucial for addressing this problem and prioritizing adaptive and mitigating strategies. However, previous studies have not leveraged machine learning (ML) and GIS-based approaches to generate susceptibility maps identifying these areas and conditioning factors, hindering sustainable watershed management solutions. This study aimed to predict gully erosion susceptibility (GES) and identify underlying areas and factors in the Erer watershed. Four ML models, namely, XGBoost, random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and artificial neural network (ANN), were integrated with geospatial analysis using 22 geoenvironmental predictors and 1,200 inventory points (70% used for training and 30% for testing). Model performance and robustness were validated through the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity, kappa coefficient, F1 score, and logarithmic loss. The relative slope position is most influential, with 100% importance in SVM and RF and 95% importance in XGBoost, while annual rainfall (AR) dominated ANN (100% importance). Notably, XGBoost demonstrated robustness and superior prediction/mapping, achieving an AUC of 0.97, 91% accuracy, 92% precision, and 81% kappa while maintaining a low logloss (0.0394). However, SVM excelled in classifying gully resistant/susceptible areas (97% sensitivity, 98% specificity, and 91% F1 score). The ANN model predicted the most areas with very high gully susceptibility (13.74%), followed by the SVM (11.69%), XGBoost (10.65%), and RF (7.85%) models, while XGBoost identified the most areas with very low susceptibility (70.19%). The ensemble technique was employed to further enhance GES modeling, and it outperformed the individual models, achieving an AUC of 0.99, 93.5% accuracy, 92.5% precision, 97.5% sensitivity, 95.4% specificity, 85.8% kappa, and 94.9% F1 score. This technique also classified the GES of the watershed as 36.48% very low, 26.51% low, 16.24% moderate, 11.55% high, and 9.22% very high. Furthermore, district-level analyses revealed the most susceptible areas, including the Babile, Fedis, Harar, and Meyumuluke districts, with high GES areas of 32.4%, 21.3%, 14.3%, and 13.6%, respectively. This study offers robust and flexible ML models with comprehensive validation metrics to enhance GES modeling and identify gully prone areas and factors, thereby supporting decision-making for sustainable watershed conservation and land degradation prevention.