Hawassa University Research Articles

Effects of land-use-cover-changes on selected soil physicochemical properties along slope position, Coka watershed, Southern Ethiopia

Land-use changes along slope position can have a major positive or negative impact on soil environment and agricultural productivity. Relevant information to understand the negative effect of land-use change and slope variability on soil property is a vital element to monitor, plan and make the decision to improve productivity and restore the environment. The aim was to examine the effects of land-use-cover-changes along slope position on the selected soil physicochemical properties in the Coka watershed. Soil samples were gathered from 5 nearby land uses, namely forestland, grassland, bushland, cultivated land, and bare-land, and 3 slope positions (upper, middle, and lower slope) at 0–30 cm soil-depth, analyzed in Hawassa University Soil testing laboratory. The results show that the highest field capacity, available water-holding, porosity, silt, nitrogen, pH-value, cation exchange capacity, sodium, magnesium, and calcium were in forestlands and lower-slope. The highest water-permanent-wilting-point, organic-carbon, soil-organic-matter, and potassium were in bushland; bulk density was in bare land while the highest clay and available-phosphorus were revealed in cultivated land and lower slope. Most soil properties showed a positive correlation with each other except bulk density which has a negative correlation with all soil properties. Generally, cultivated land and bare land have the least concentration in most soil properties which indicates of increasing degradation rate in the area. Thus, soil-organic-matter and other yield-limiting nutrients should be improved in cultivated land to maximize productivity by using an integrated implementation of soil fertility management through cover crops and rotation, compost, manures, and minimum tillage; and amending soil pH-value by liming.

Adherence to topical anti-glaucoma medications in Sidama regional state, Southern Ethiopia.

To assess the proportion of adherence to topical anti-glaucoma medications and associated factors among glaucoma patients in Sidama regional state, Ethiopia. An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 30 to July 15, 2022 at Hawassa University comprehensive specialized and Yirgalem General Hospitals in Sidama regional state, Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling method was used to select 410 study participants. An adapted eight-item self-reported questionnaire was used to assess adherence. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with adherence to topical anti-glaucoma medications. Variables with a p-value of <0.05 under multivariable analysis were taken as statistically significant factors for adherence. The strength of the association was measured by using an adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval. A total of 410 participants were included giving a response rate of 98.3%. Those who were adherent to their medications were 221(53.9%) (95% CI: 48.8-58.5). Urban residence (AOR = 2.81: 95% CI = 1.34-5.87), higher educational level (AOR = 3.17: 95% CI = 1.24-8.09), monthly follow-up frequency (AOR = 3.30: 95% CI = 1.79-6.11) and normal vision (AOR = 6.58: 95% CI = 3.03-10.84) were significantly associated with adherence. More than half of glaucoma patients attending at Hawassa University comprehensive specialized and Yirgalem general hospitals were adherent to their topical anti-glaucoma medications. Urban residence, educational level, follow-up frequency, and normal vision were associated with adherence.

Risk factors for neonatal sepsis among neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Adare General Hospital in Hawassa City, Ethiopia.

Neonatal sepsis (NS) is a serious blood bacterial infection in children of 28 days or younger, manifested by systemic signs and symptoms of infection. Neonatal sepsis has become one of the leading causes of admission and death in developing countries like Ethiopia. Understanding different risk factors for neonatal sepsis is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. So, this study aimed to assess the risk factors for neonatal sepsis among neonates at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Adare General Hospital in Hawassa City, Ethiopia. A case-control study design was employed on 264 neonates (66 cases and 198 controls) in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Adare General Hospital from April to June 2018. Data were collected by interviewing the mothers and reviewing neonates' medical records. The data were edited, cleaned, coded, and entered into Epi info version 7 and were transported and analyzed using SPSS version 20. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the significance of the associations. A total of 264 neonates (66 cases and 198 controls) with 100% response rate. The mean (±SD) age of mothers was 26 ± 4.042 years. The majority (84.8%) of the cases were found in children under 7 days, with a mean age of 3.32 days ± 3.376 SD. Factors such as prolonged rupture of the membrane [AOR = 4.627; 95% CI (1.997-10.72)], history of the urinary tract or sexually transmitted infections [AOR = 2.5; 95% CI (1.151-5.726)], intrapartum fever [AOR = 3.481; 95% CI (1.18-10.21)], foul smelling liquor [AOR = 3.64; 95% CI (1.034-12.86)], and low APGAR score in the fifth minute [AOR = 3.38; 95% CI (1.107-10.31)] were the independent predictors of neonatal sepsis. Prolonged rupture of the membrane, intrapartum fever, urinary tract infection, foul-smelling liquor, and low APGAR score were independent risk factors of neonatal sepsis, and this study also observed that the onset of neonatal sepsis was higher in the first week of a neonate's life. Routine sepsis evaluation must focus on neonates born with the aforementioned characteristics and make interventions for babies born with these risk factors.

Factors affecting cervical cancer screening service uptake among clients visiting the ART clinic at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundAnnually, around half a million new cases of cervical cancer and 250,000 deaths occur worldwide. It is the second-leading cancerous cause of death after breast cancer among women. Repeated infection and prolonged persistence with human papilloma virus is common among HIV-positive women due to their immune status. A one-visit screen and treat strategy for cervical cancer prevention was instituted in 2010 nationwide in 14 selected hospitals. So, assessing service uptake and associated factors among ART clients is mandatory. MethodFrom December 2015 to March 2016 G.C., a cross-sectional study was conducted. An interviewer-administered, semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were entered, cleaned, and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 20 software. A statistically significant association of variables was determined based on an adjusted odds ratio with a 95 % confidence interval and a p value of 0.05. ResultCervical cancer screening service uptake among the 647 interviewed participants was 59 %. Study participants accounting for 19 % (N = 123) were 18–29 age group, 56.6 % (N = 366) were 30–39 %, and 24.4 % (N = 158) were in 40–64 age group. Of 647 participants, 43.7 % (N = 283) were illiterate and educated less than secondary level of education, 36.0 % (N = 233) had a secondary level of education, and 20.2 % (N = 131) had an education above secondary. Being encouraged by others to get screened for cervical cancer (AOR = 1.88, 95 % CI: 1.25, 2.82), knowing another woman who got screened, and getting information from the media (AOR = 0.4, 95 % CI: 0.27, 0.60) were associated with the uptake of cervical cancer screening. ConclusionThe uptake of cervical cancer screening among ART clients attending the clinic was not satisfactory. Encouragement to get screened, knowing other screened women, and getting information from the media were important predictors of CCS service uptake. Exploring more information on the attitudes of clients to improve service uptake is mandatory.

Magnitude and Factors Associated with Cytopenia Among Children on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy at Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Science, Sidama Region, Southern Ethiopia.

The most common abnormality in HIV-infected children is cytopenia, a hematological complication characterized by a decline in any of the blood cell lines. It is associated with a higher risk of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of cytopenia among HIV-positive children on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on HIV-positive children on HAART from July to September 2020. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the study participants' data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Hematological parameters from the blood sample were analyzed using Ruby Cell-Dyne 300 hematology auto-analyzer. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Logistic regression was used to assess the predictors of cytopenia among the study participants. P-values of less than 0.05 are considered statistically significant. Two hundred seventy-three HAART-experienced children were enrolled in this study, and 50.9% were females. At baseline, 40.7% of children were anemic. The overall magnitude of cytopenia among the study participants was 26.7%. The prevalence of anemia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia and neutropenia among children was 11.4%, 4.0%, 14.3%, and 18.3%, respectively. Patients with an undetectable viral load (AOR = 0.5, CI = 0.3-0.9) are 50% less likely to report cytopenia. HAART-experienced children living in rural areas are more likely to develop cytopenia (AOR = 2.6, CI = 1.3-5.2) than those living in urban areas. Hematologic abnormalities are common problems among children on highly active antiretroviral therapy. Therefore, routine investigation of hematological and immunological changes following appropriate therapeutic interventions is recommended.

Nutritional Treatment Outcomes of Therapeutic Feeding Program and Its Predictors Among HIV Patients at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa City, Sidama, Southern Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

HIV-induced malnutrition is highly prevalent in different parts of the world particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The food intervention package is one of the strategies that targets malnutrition among HIV-infected people through nutritional evaluation, counseling and care. However, little is known concerning the outcomes of intervention in such patients in treatment program. Therefore, this study aimed to assess nutritional treatment outcomes and its predictors among adult HIV-positive undernourished individuals in Ethiopia. Facility based retrospective cohort study was deployed in Adult Antiretroviral therapy clinic of Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Data of 419 patients were extracted from the food by prescription registration book and patient cards using structured questionnaires. Statistical significance was assessed using Cox-proportional Hazard model by determining hazard ratios and 95% confidence interval. The proportion of adult HIV patients who recovered from malnutrition after they were enrolled in the food by prescription therapy was 53.0%. The variables found to have an association with good nutritional treatment outcomes of food by prescription in the final model are being female (Adjusted Hazard Ratio (AHR) = 3.38, 95% CI: 2.15, 5.32), secondary education (AHR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.11, 4.18), tertiary education (AHR = 3.75, 95% CI: 1.66, 8.48), SAM (AHR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.12, 0.35), and HAART (AHR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.50, 4.86). Having Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) at baseline nutritional assessment (AHR = 3.42, 95% CI; 2.81, 5.15), taking ART for more than 12 months (AHR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.84) and starting HAART immediately after testing positive (AHR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.84) are significantly associated with nutritional treatment failure. Fifty-three percent of HIV patients recovered from malnutrition after they were enrolled in the food by prescription therapy.

Factors Associated with the Outcome of a Pediatric Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Unit in Resource-Limited Setup: Cross-Sectional Study.

Critical care is a multidisciplinary and interprofessional specialty devoted to treating patients who already have or are at danger of developing acute, life-threatening organ dysfunction. Due to the higher disease load and mortality from preventable illness, patient outcomes in intensive care units are challenging in settings with inadequate resources. This study aimed to determine factors associated with outcomes of pediatric patients admitted to intensive care units. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Wolaita Sodo and Hawassa University teaching hospitals in southern Ethiopia. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Normality tests using the Shapiro-Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov data were normally distributed. The frequency, percentage, and cross-tabulation of the different variables were then determined. Finally, the magnitude and associated factors were first analyzed using binary logistic regression and then multivariate logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. A total of 396 Pediatric ICU patients were included in this study, and 165 (41.7%) deaths were recorded. The odds of patients from urban areas (AOR = 45%, CI 95%: 8%, 67% p-value = 0.025) were less likely to die than those in rural areas. Patients with co morbidities (AOR = 9.4, CI 95%: 4.5, 19.7, p = 0.000) were more likely to die than pediatric patients with no co-morbidities. Patients admitted with Acute respiratory distress syndrome (AOR = 12.86, CI 95%: 4.3, 39.2, p = 0.000) were more likely to die than those with not. Pediatric patients on mechanical ventilation (AOR = 3, CI 95%: 1.7, 5.9, p = 0.000) more likely to die than not mechanically ventilated. Mortality of paediatric ICU patients was high (40.7%) in this study. Co-morbid disease, residency, the use of inotropes, and the length of ICU stay were all statistically significant predictors of death.

Pediatric Guillain-Barré Syndrome in a Resource Limited Setting: Clinical Features, Diagnostic and Management Challenges, and Hospital Outcome.

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy with a highly variable clinical course and outcome. There remain diagnostic and treatment challenges in resource limited settings. This study aimed to describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic and management challenges, and hospital outcome of children with GBS in southern Ethiopia. A retrospective chart review of children aged ≤14 years who were admitted with a diagnosis of GBS to Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from 2017 to 2021 was done. Medical records of 102 children who fulfilled the Brighton Criteria for GBS were reviewed, and data on demographic, clinical characteristics, investigation findings, treatment, and outcome were collected. Logistic regression analysis was done to determine factors associated with mortality. The mean age of the study subjects was 7.25±3.91 years and 63.7% were male. Antecedent event was present in 48% of the cases, and the most common triggering factor was upper respiratory tract infection (63.8%). The mean Hughes disability score was 4.23±0.54, 4.48±0.71, and 4.03±0.86 at admission, nadir and discharge from hospital, respectively. Cranial nerve involvement was present in 27.5% of patients and bulbar palsy was the most common finding. Dysautonomia was observed in 57.8% of the participants. Sixty-three patients (61.8%) needed ICU care but only 43 of them (68.3%) were admitted to ICU. Similarly, 31 patients (30.4%) required respiratory support but only 24 of them (77.4%) were on mechanical ventilator. No patient had nerve conduction study. Only 5.9% of patients received IVIG. Thirteen patients (12.7%) died of GBS and the presence of respiratory failure was the only determinant of mortality [AOR = 11.40 (95% CI: 1.818, 71.52), p = 0.009]. There is a gap in the diagnosis and management of children with GBS; and mortality from the disease is higher than reports from other settings.

Incidence of Postoperative Sore Throat and Associated Factors Among Pediatric Patients Undergoing Surgery Under General Anesthesia at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, a Prospective Cohort Study.

Postoperative sore throat is one of the common postoperative complications following general anesthesia. Postoperative sore throat causes decreased patient satisfaction, and it affects patients' well-being after surgery, thus identifying its incidence and predictors helps to distinguish the preventable causes of postoperative sore throat. This study aimed to assess the incidence and associated factors of postoperative sore throat among pediatric patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia at Hawassa university comprehensive specialized hospital. A prospective cohort study was conducted among children in the age range 6-16 years old who underwent emergency and elective surgical procedures under general anesthesia. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 26 software packages. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate the independent predictors. The presence and severity of postoperative sore throat were assessed by using a four-point categorical pain scale at the 2nd, 6th, 12th, and 24th-hour postoperative time. A total of 102 children were recruited in this study, from which 27 children (26.5%) complained of sore throat postoperatively. This study found that endotracheal intubation (P value: 0.030; AOR: 3.155; 95% CI [1.114-8.933]) and several attempts greater than one (P value: 0.027 and AOR: 4.890; 95% CI: [1.203-19.883]) had statistically significant association with a postoperative sore throat. The overall incidence of postoperative sore throat was 26.5%. Endotracheal intubation and the number of attempts greater than one were independent factors that were significantly associated with the occurrence of postoperative sore throat in this study.

Magnitude of Stroke Subtypes and Associated Risk Factors Among Patients Admitted to Hawassa University Compressive Specialized Hospital

Stroke is becoming increasingly common problem in LMIC including Ethiopia exerting great impact on morbidity, mortality and economic burden. It is second leading global cause of death just behind heart disease. Various clinical conditions have been investigated as risks factors of stroke. <i>Objective</i>: To determine the magnitude of stroke subtypes and the associated risk factors among stroke patients in the in-patient department of internal medicine at HUSCH. <i>Methodology:</i> A retrospective review of all patients admitted to medical ward with the diagnosis of stroke at Hawassa university comprehensive specialized hospital from September 2017 to august 2018 was conducted. Socio-demographic information, risk factors, and treatment outcomes of patients were obtained by using a structured check list. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 23.0 software. <i>Results:</i> Out of the 224-stroke patients who were admitted to medical ward of HUCSH, majority (57.6%) were men. The median age was 55 (IQR: 44.4-66.2). Hemorrhagic stroke and Ischemic stroke accounted for 132 (58.9%) and 86 (38.4%) of patients respectively. Among patients with Hemorrhagic stroke, 117 (88.6%) patients had ICH and 15 (11.3%) patients had SAH. Hypertension followed by cardiac disease were the commonest risk factors occurring in 52.2% and 8.8% of stroke patients respectively. The inpatient mortality of stroke was 16.5%. <i>Conclusion:</i> In this study, hemorrhagic stroke was the most common type of stroke. Hypertension and cardiac disease were the commonest risk factor identified. Aspiration pneumonia and raised ICP were the main factors associated with poor outcome.

Effect of Moisture Stress on Physiological and Yield Responses of Common Bean Varieties at Lath House Condition, Hawassa University, Southern Ethiopia

Common bean is one of the most traditional foods, with social and economic importance, and is suitable for food security due to its short growing cycle and adaptability to different cropping systems. However, various constraints like biotic and abiotic factors reported for the low productivity of the crop. Therefore, the study was designed to identify the common bean varieties’ response on physiological properties and yield performance under different irrigation intervals in Lath House condition at Hawassa University, Ethiopia, from June, 2020, to September, 2020. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with a factorial combination of seven common bean varieties (Awash-1, Awash-2, Dursitu, Fedis, Gofta, Nasir, and Tinike) and three moisture levels, eight day irrigation interval, four day irrigation interval, and daily watering with three replication. There was a significant main and interaction effects among the measured parameters. From those significantly affected parameters, the highest stomata numbers (25) were recorded from the Dursitu variety with a daily irrigation interval. The longest stomata aperture was observed with Gofta (133.76 nm) and Fedis varieties (131.13 nm) to daily irrigation and four day irrigation intervals, respectively. A wider stomata aperture was found in the Awash-1(12.6 nm) variety on a daily irrigation interval, and maximum stomata conductance (193.67) was obtained in the Tinike variety treated with a four day irrigation interval. The maximum relative leaf moisture content (96%) was found on the Awash-1 variety at a four day irrigation interval. Maximum water use efficiency was obtained from the Awash-1 (3.95) variety, which is an insignificant variation with the Awash-2 (3.85) and Gofta varieties (3.85) at a four day irrigation interval. Among the varieties, the highest photosynthesis rate (10.43 μmol·m−2·s−1) and transpiration rate (5.42 mmol·m−2·s−1) were obtained in the Gofta variety treated by a four day irrigation interval. In the photosynthetic pigment analysis, the highest leaf chl-a, chl-b, and chl-a + b concentration was recorded at 2.4 μg/ml, 1.53 g/ml, and 3.93 μg/ml, respectively, in the Gofta variety irrigated at a four days interval. The highest (0.586) chlorophyll fluorescence was obtained in the eight day irrigation interval. The highest proline content was found from the Awash-1 (0.78) variety regarding to drought stress condition. The highest pods plant−1 (9) and seed pod−1 (5) was found in the Awash-2 and Awash-1 varieties, respectively, at a four days irrigation interval and the highest main effect of 100 SW (39.48 g), (28.6 g) was found in the Fedis variety and at a four day irrigating interval, respectively. The maximum yield was obtained from the varieties Awash-1 (7.8 g plant−1) and Gofta (7.36 g plant−1) with a four day irrigated interval and they are also superior at drought condition and Awash-2 varieties are enhanced at waterlogging condition as compared to the other varieties.

Case-control study on determinants of uterine rupture among mothers who gave birth at Hawassa University comprehensive specialized hospital.

Uterine rupture is defined as tearing of the uterine wall during pregnancy or delivery. It can occur during pregnancy or labor and delivery. Rupture of the uterus is a catastrophic event resulting in the death of the baby, and severe maternal morbidity and mortality Despite different interventions done by stakeholders, it remained one of the leading public problems in developing countries like Ethiopia. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of uterine rupture among mothers who gave birth at Hawassa University comprehensive specialized hospital from July 2015 to June 2020G.C. A case-control study was conducted by reviewing data from a total of 582 patient charts which include 194 cases and 388 controls with a case-to-control ratio of 1:2. Then the data was extracted using a pre-tested and structured data extraction sheet. Data were entered using Epi data 3.1 and exported to SPSS and analyzed using SPSS 20. The association between independent variables and uterine rupture was estimated using an odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals. The statistical significance of the association was declared at P-value < 0.05. There were a total of 22,586 deliveries and 247 confirmed cases of uterine rupture which makes the prevalence 1.09%. Lack of ANC (Ante-natal care) (AOR = 7.5; 95% CI: 1.9-30.3) inadequate ANC (AOR = 2.45; 95% CI: 1.1-5.57), gravidity ≥5 (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.36-8.12), obstructed labor (AOR = 38.3; 95% CI: 17.8-82.4) and fetal macrosomia (AOR = 8; 95% CI: 17.8-82.4) are variables which increase the odds of developing uterine rupture. Mothers without additional medical or obstetric conditions are more likely (AOR = 4.2; 95% CI: 2.1-8.65) to develop uterine rupture than mothers with additional medical or obstetric conditions. The prevalence of uterine rupture is high in the study area. The study also revealed that a decrease in ANC follow-up, gravidity of ≥5, obstructed labor, and fetal weight of >4kg are significantly associated with uterine rupture. Improving the quality of ANC follow-up, intrapartum follow-up and proper estimation of fetal weight are recommended interventions from the study.

Histopathologic Patterns of Ovarian Tumors in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Southern Ethiopia.

In Ethiopia, there is no national-level cancer registry except capital Addis Ababa, and little research was performed on ovarian tumors. This study is aimed at assessing different histopathologic patterns of ovarian tumors and their distribution based on age, biological behavior, and gross findings at a tertiary-level hospital in Ethiopia. In this study, 187 biopsy-confirmed ovarian tumors from September 2017 to August 2021 were included. All data were collected from the pathology department report format, classified according to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) classification system, and analyzed using SPSS 20.0 and Microsoft Excel 2010 at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia. A total of 187 women with ovarian tumors were included in this study. Of these, 143 (76.5%) were benign, 35 (18.7%) were malignant, and 9 (4.8%) were borderline tumors. Both benign and borderline tumors mostly occur at the age of 20-39 years. Surface epithelial tumors were the most common histopathologic pattern at 57.8% followed by germ cell tumors at 29.4% and sex cord-stromal tumors at 11.7%. Mature cystic teratomas were the most common benign ovarian tumors accounting for 37.8% of them, while serous cystadenocarcinomas were the most common malignant ovarian tumors accounting for 31.4% of malignant neoplasms. In the current study, surface epithelial tumors were the most common ovarian tumors followed by germ cell tumors. Younger age at presentation was observed for malignant ovarian tumors.

Effect of bioslurry and chemical fertilizer on the agronomic performances of maize

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of bioslurry (BS) and chemical fertilizer (CF), as a sole BS and CF and their mixed application, on the agronomic performances of maize (Zea mays var. BH- 546). Field experiment was conducted at Hawassa University Research Farm, in the Sidama Region in Ethiopia. The experiment consisted of six treatments, arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Relevant agronomic characteristics were recorded for each plot, from planting to harvest. Results show yield and yield characteristics of maize increased by both sole and combined application of fertilizers compared to no fertilizer application. The combined BS and CF application at the dose of 25% BS +75% CF gave the highest plant height (251.3 cm), grain yield (7.09 t ha−1), biomass yield (24.4 t ha−1) and stover yield (11.5 t ha−1). The agronomic performances generally increased with increasing proportion of chemical fertilizer in the combined application until the proportion of bio-slurry reaches 75%. Moreover, the combined application generally tended to increase the agronomic performance better than the sole application of both BS and CF. In addition to improving the agronomic performances; both sole BS and its combination with CF reduce the cost of chemical fertilizers. In conclusion, the combined BS and CF application at the dose of 25% BS +75% CF appears an optimal combination and rate for the production of maize in the study area. Yet, as this finding is only one season, further studies determining the optimum dose of sole BS, sole CF, and combined CF and BS for improved maize agronomic performance is commendable in future research.

Mortality Rate and Predictors Among Women With Obstructed Labor in a Tertiary Academic Medical Center of Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Obstructed labor is one of the most common preventable causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. In Ethiopia, 36% of maternal mortality was due to obstructed labor with uterine rupture. Thus, this study proposed to measure predictors of maternal mortality among women with obstructed labor in a tertiary academic medical center in Southern Ethiopia. An institution-based retrospective cohort study was conducted at Hawassa University Specialized Hospital from July 25 to September 30, 2018. Women who had obstructed labor from 2015 to 2017 were recruited. A pretested checklist was used to retrieve data from the woman's chart. A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to identify variables associated with maternal mortality, and variables with a p-value <.05 were considered significant at 95% CI. With a response rate of 96.3%, 156 moms who experienced labor obstruction were included in the study. Obstructed labor caused the deaths of 14 women, resulting in a maternal mortality rate of 8.9% (95% CI: 7.15, 16.4). Maternal mortality from obstructed labor was reduced in women who received antenatal care visits (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.76) and blood transfusions (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.89). Women who experienced uterine rupture (AOR = 6.25, 95% CI: 5.3, 15.6) and antepartum hemorrhage (AOR = 14, 95% CI: 2.45, 70.5) had a greater risk of maternal mortality than women who did not have the corresponding morbidity. The center had a higher rate of maternal mortality due to obstructed labor. Early screening and improving the care for women at greatest risk of antenatal and postnatal co-morbidities like uterine rupture and shock were the major priorities and fundamental strategies to decreasing maternal mortality. It also showed that antenatal care visits, early referral, and blood transfusion for women with obstructed labor should be amended in order to lower maternal mortality.

Neonatal Sepsis and Associated Factors among Neonates Admitted to NICU in Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Sidama Regional State, South Ethiopia, 2020

Neonatal sepsis is a condition defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by signs and symptoms of infection in an infant 28 days of life or younger. In Ethiopia, regardless of the marked reduction in neonatal mortality neonatal sepsis still accounts for more than one-third (33%) of neonatal deaths in the country.

Participatory evaluation and demonstration of livestock feed conservation technologies for small scale dairy farmers in Melokoza and Basketo special districts, Southern Ethiopia

The current study was conducted to assess feed conservation and utilization practices and evaluate nutritional characteristics of silages conserved under farmer’s condition in Melokoza and Basketo special districts. A total of 60 small scale dairy farmers were interviewed to assess feed conservation and utilization practices of the districts before actual experiment at backyards of 12 voluntary farmers that were latter divided in to three silage making groups with [desho (G1), elephant (G2) and native grasses (G3)]. Similar proportion of molasses (5%) and D.intortium (25%) were added to adjust the soluble carbohydrate and crude protein (CP) content of silages to the minimum expected level and facilitate fermentation. Each group has four farmers supplied with basic materials including plastic sheet for lining of silo and shading. Data of each silo within each group was averaged and used as a treatment unit in the design of the trial (RCBD). Physical quality characteristics of silages were assessed through sensory evaluation whereas nutritional analysis was made in Hawassa University, Animal nutrition laboratory. As the result from quick survey, 95% of the respondents do not experience feed conservation and technical skill limitation was reported as the major reason for low adoption. 70% of the respondents use crop-residue for copping feed scarcity. However, the experimental work on silage showed that all ensiled materials were excellent in physical qualities. The DM contents of G1, G2 and G3 were 45.03, 29.45 and 50.36 whereas IVDMD were 77.6, 64.9 and 59.0% respectively. CP values ranges from 8.18 to 9.22%. The pH values obtained ranges between (4.02-4.18) which was the desired level for quality silages. Hence, it could be concluded that silage making is one of the best feed conservation option to enhance nutritional sufficiency of small scale dairy farmers with the superiority of G1 which was excellent in most tested parameters. Nevertheless, animal experiments are necessary to determine the effects of these variations in silage composition on animal performance.

Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrom and Predisposing Factors Among Engineering Students in Hawass University Institution of Techenology Campus, Hawassa, Ethiopia, 2019

Objective: Lack of detail information about the magnitude of the computer vision syndrome (CVS) and the factors which predominantly cause CVS. This study has an importance for further studies as a baseline data. The purpose of this study was to assess the magnitude of CVS and associated factors on students of Hawassa university institution of technology, Hawassa, Ethiopia, 2019. Methodology: Institution based cross sectional study design was used from March 30 to May 2019. A multi stage sampling was used. Four departments were selected by using simple random sampling. Among each selected departments students was selected by using systematic random sampling and calculating proportion (K) on each selected department based on the proportion of the number of students in each department. And the final sample size was 896. Each student was assessed whether he/she was exposed to any kind of visual display terminal (VDT). Face to face interview, ocular examination and observation during VDT use was performed by five optometrists from March 30 to May 2019. After collected data was cleaned and coded, EPI info 2002 for data entry and SPSS version 16.0 software for data analysis was used. Odds ratio with a 95% CI will be used to display results. P value less than 0.05 in multivariate logistic regressions was used to show statistical significance. Results: The prevalence of Computer vision syndrome is 41.7% and urban(OR =1.66; CI = (1.14, 2.43)), no glass use(OR = 6.01 ; CI = (1.67, 21.63)), reading playing game with VDT (OR = 2.33; CI = (1.33, 4.08)), reading and watching movies with VDT (OR = 1.49; CI = (1.02, 2.18)), using Smartphone (OR = 0.60; CI = (0.38, 0.95)), remote NPC (OR= 3.19; CI = (1.64, 6.25)) and moderate size of VDT (OR = 0.63; CI = (0.41, 0.96)) were significantly associated with CVS. There is 0.39Ds reduction of amplitude of accommodation in students who has CVS. Conclusion: The prevalence of CVS was high in engineering students, mostly having symptoms of tearing. It is better to avoid using VDT like Smartphone for multiple activities like reading, playing game and watching movies and need an eye examination and protective glass to prevent CVS.

Prevalence and associated factors of symptomatic dry eye among undergraduate students in Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa, Ethiopia

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of symptomatic dry eye (SDE) among undergraduate students at the College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Ethiopia.Methods and...

Accuracy of VIA for the diagnosis of cervical cancer and associated factors among women attending cervical cancer screening at Hawassa university comprehensive specialized hospital, southern Ethiopia: Institutional based cross sectional study.

Cervical cancer is the commonest pelvic malignancy in the world, forth among women cancers, but 2nd commonest after breast cancer in the low & middle income countries. The disease is the second common in Ethiopia, with a prevalence of 13.4% with similar impact of cancer death. The aim of this study is to know the degree of cervical cancer among the suspected, & its associated factors among the women visiting the hospital for cervical cancer & precancer screening at specific period. A five years retrospective hospital based cross sectional study was conducted. All clients who came for screening with a visual inspection using acetic acid (VIA) & suspicious of cancer were included. Finally, every suspected woman with a complete chart was included. Data was coded and entered using Epi Data Version 3.1 then was exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. Proportion, mean and standard deviation were used to describe the study variables. Then bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify association between independent & outcome variables. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence interval (CI) and p value (<0.05) were computed to assess the presence and degree of statistical association between dependent and independent variables. The prevalence of cervical cancer among the study women was 28%. Illiterate women suspicious with cervical cancer after positive test have five times increased odds of being diagnosed with cervical cancer than those who had formal education AOR 4.885(0.180, 0.741) 95%CI. Women with multiple sexual partners had eleven times increased odds of having cervical cancer than those with single sexual partner AOR 11.5 (1.273,24.34) 95%CI. Also, women who had referral for suspicious lesion for cervical cancer had significant association AOR 5.477(1.715-17.498) 95% CI. This study has revealed a significant proportion of cervical cancer among the participants; and the factors associated with cervical cancer were multiple sexual partners, poor educational status (Illiterate), & those referred for suspected disease.