Introduction: non-small cell lung cancer accounts for most lung cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although tumour-node-metastasis staging remains the cornerstone of prognostication, histological subtype and tumour differentiation may provide additional prognostic value, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where advanced molecular testing is limited. Evidence on these factors in Ethiopia is scarce. Methods: an institution-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 202 adult patients who received follow-up care at three specialised hospitals in Ethiopia between January 2020 and January 2025. Data were extracted from medical records and supplemented with telephone follow-up to ascertain survival outcomes. Overall survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and Cox proportional hazards regression models were applied to identify independent predictors of mortality, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: the median overall survival was 10 months. Patients with squamous cell carcinoma had significantly better survival than those with non-squamous cell carcinoma (log-rank p = 0.020). Survival also differed significantly by histological differentiation (log-rank p = 0.001). In multivariate analysis, advanced primary tumour stage, contralateral nodal involvement, distant metastasis, non-squamous histology, moderately or poorly differentiated /undifferentiated tumours, and poor performance status were independently associated with worse survival. Similarly, Patients aged 40-59 years and ≥ 60 years had significantly lower hazards of death compared with patients aged under 40 years. Conclusion: histological subtype and tumour differentiation are independent predictors of survival among NSCLC patients in Ethiopia, beyond conventional TNM staging. These findings provide context-specific evidence from an Ethiopian cohort, where advanced molecular profiling is limited, and highlight the prognostic value of routinely available histopathological features in guiding clinical decision-making in resource-constrained settings.

Background/Objectives: Scoliosis in children leads to complex physical, psychosocial, and functional impairments, yet evidence from low-resource settings is limited. To evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Ethiopian children with scoliosis using WHODAS 2.0 and EQ-5D-Y, and to identify clinical and demographic correlates of disability. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at CURE Children's Hospital of Ethiopia (1 April 2024-31 March 2025). Ninety-seven children aged 6-15 years with confirmed scoliosis were assessed. WHODAS 2.0 (36-item) captured disability across six domains, while EQ-5D-Y measured physical, psychosocial, and pain-related HRQoL. Clinical severity indicators (Cobb angle, trunk rotation, thoracic morphometrics, anthropometrics) were recorded. Analyses in Python 3.12 included descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression to examine associations between scoliosis severity and HRQoL outcomes. Results: Ninety-seven Ethiopian children diagnosed with scoliosis (mean age 11.4 years, mean Cobb angle 73.5°) were assessed; congenital scoliosis was most common (45.4%), followed by idiopathic (38.1%) and neuromuscular (16.5%). WHODAS 2.0 revealed substantial disability, particularly in mobility (46.4%) and social participation (62.8%), with life activities and participation as the strongest contributors. Greater deformity, younger age, and smaller body size were linked to worse outcomes, with neuromuscular and very severe thoracolumbar cases most affected. EQ-5D-Y showed marked HRQoL impairments across domains, with psychological distress (mean 2.24/3), pain, and self-care limitations emerging as key burdens. The mean EQ score was 8.89/15 (59.2%), indicating reduced quality of life. Regression analyses highlighted pain, psychological distress, and self-care limitations as the domains most strongly associated with poorer HRQoL, while greater Cobb angle and higher ATR degree were also correlated with reduced quality of life. Conclusions: Ethiopian children with scoliosis experience significant multidimensional impairments in HRQoL, with mobility, social participation, pain, and psychological distress as dominant burdens. WHODAS 2.0 and EQ-5D-Y proved complementary in capturing these impacts, supporting their use for early detection, clinical care, and public health planning in resource-limited settings.

BACKGROUND:Scoliosis is a progressive spinal deformity that often develops during childhood and adolescence. In Ethiopia, population-level prevalence data are scarce, and school-based screening, though practical, may overestimate cases without radiographic confirmation. Understanding its distribution and severity is critical for guiding clinical and public health strategies. OBJECTIVES:To estimate the prevalence of scoliosis among Ethiopian schoolchildren, characterize its types and severity, and examine associations with clinical and anthropometric variables. METHODS:A cross-sectional school-based screening was conducted from March 2024 to June 2025 across 42 public primary schools in six regions. Children aged 6-15 years were screened using the Adam's Forward Bend Test and scoliometer; suspected cases (ATR ≥ 7°) were referred for radiographic confirmation. Prevalence estimates and associations were analyzed using chi-square tests and t-tests. Data were analyzed in Python, with quality control ensured through standardized training, pilot testing, and double-entry verification. RESULTS:Of 32,000 children screened, 48 were suspected of scoliosis (0.15%; 95% CI: 0.11-0.20%), and 21 were radiographically confirmed (0.066%; 95% CI: 0.04-0.10%). Congenital scoliosis was most common (61.9%), with male predominance (69%), while idiopathic scoliosis (23.8%) was more frequent in females (60%). Neuromuscular and syndromic scoliosis were rare. Severity analysis showed male predominance in mild and very severe cases, with equal sex distribution in severe scoliosis. The mean Cobb angle was 47.4° (SD ± 28.9), most cases involved the thoracic spine (52.4%), and the rib hump was typically right-sided (61.9%). Cobb angle correlated positively with ATR (r = 0.61) and thoracic loss (r = 0.48), and negatively with age (r = -0.24) and thoracic height (r = -0.46). CONCLUSION:This study shows that scoliosis prevalence within the school population is low, with adolescent idiopathic cases markedly underrepresented compared to other school-based screening reports. These findings suggest that nationwide school screening programs are not recommended. Instead, efforts should prioritize strengthening diagnostic and referral pathways for clinically evident cases to ensure timely access to specialized care.

Objectives:Thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure that reduces or removes the thyroid gland the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the pooled prevalence and sub-types of thyroidectomy and characterize its postoperative complications in some low and middle income African countries. Methods:The studies were identified through an exhaustive search of reputable databases Twenty-two studies were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a standardized and pre-tested data extraction checklist, and the analysis was done using STATA version 14 statistical software. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. Result:Toxic goiters were the most common indication for thyroidectomy accounting for 46.62 % of cases. Cosmetic reasons (41.07 %) and suspicion of malignancy (11.30 %) were the other common indications. Regarding surgical procedures, sub-total thyroidectomy (39.27 %) was the predominant surgical procedure, followed by lobectomy and isthmusectomy (34.88 %) and near-total thyroidectomy (34.77 %) respectively. The pooled prevalence of postoperative complications following thyroidectomy was 26.6 % [95%CI, 18.3-34.89]. Hypoparathyroidism (8.49 %) was the most common complication, followed by recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (7.96 %) and dysphonia (7.28 %). Conclusion:A toxic goiter was the most common indication for thyroidectomy. The pooled prevalence of postoperative complications was comparably higher than international figures. Hypoparathyroidism was the predominant postoperative complication.

Introduction: social interaction impairments are the main feature of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), making it a significant area of concern for both the children affected and their families. This study aimed to investigate the underlying factor structures of social interaction impairments in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at autism centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted among 145 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Various traits of social interaction impairments associated with autism were measured using the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist. A principal component analysis (PCA) employing a varimax rotation was used to identify the underlying factor structures of social interaction impairments. Results: six-factor structures of social interaction impairments were identified: challenges in interpersonal relationships and affection (eigenvalue: 4.99, variance: 13.437%), emotional insensitivity (eigenvalue: 1.714, variance: 11.837), poor gesture and attention (eigenvalue: 1.648, variance: 10.652), social withdrawal (eigenvalue: 1.40, variance: 8.932), behavioral resistance (eigenvalue: 1.270, variance: 8.011), and limited sharing (eigenvalue: 1.044, variance: 6.771). These factors accounted for approximately 60% of the total variance. Conclusion: the social interaction impairments in autism are multidimensional, presented in six distinct patterns. It is important to consider these patterns when supporting children with autism spectrum disorder.

Introduction Restriction in the growth of the fetus is a leading cause of stillbirth, neonatal mortality, and short- and long-term morbidity. Documented existing scientific evidence have shown the effects of maternal drugs use, alcohol drinking, tobacco smoking, cocaine use and heroin use on fetal growth restriction. However, data is lacking on the effects of khat chewing during pregnancy on fetal growth status and newborn size at birth. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to measure the effect of chewing khat during pregnancy on fetal growth and size at birth in eastern Ethiopia. Method A cohort study was conducted in selected health institutions in eastern Ethiopia. All pregnant women fulfilled the eligibility criteria in the selected health institutions was the source population. The calculated sample size of exposed and unexposed groups included in the study, in total, was 344. Data collection was performed prospectively by interviewers administered questionnaires, and anthropometric, clinical and ultrasound measurements. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 27 and STATA version 16 software. The survival analysis (cox proportional hazards model) and generalized linear model (GLM) for the binomial family analysis were performed to estimate the crude and adjusted relative risk and attributable risk (AR) with corresponding 95% CI of chewing khat on fetal growth restriction. The mediation effect has been examined through Generalized Structural Equation Modeling (GSEM) analysis using the Stata ‘gsem’ command. Statistically significant association was declared at p -value less than 5%. Results In the present study, the incidence of fetal growth restriction (FGR) among the study cohorts was 95 (29.7%); of this, 81 (85.3%) were among khat chewer cohorts. The relative risk of fetal growth restriction among khat chewer cohort mothers was significantly higher (aRR = 4.32; 95%CI 2.62–7.12). Moreover, the incidence of small for gestational age at birth among the present study cohorts was 100 (31.3%); 84 (84%) were from khat chewer cohorts’ deliveries. More importantly, in the present study, 98.95% of the ultrasound-identified fetuses with FGR were found to be SGA at birth. Hence, in the current study, FGR was highly associated with SGA at birth. In additional analysis, the regression coefficient of khat chewing during pregnancy on fetal growth restriction has been decreased in size from path o, β = 0.43, p < 0.001 to path o’, β = 0.32, p < 0.001, after adjusting for gestational hypertension and maternal anemia. Conclusion In sum, the present study showed khat chewing during pregnancy is not simply affected the mothers, but it also affected the unborn fetuses. Therefore, the health workers as well as the local community and religious leaders should give high emphasis on provision of health education regarding the damage of chewing khat by pregnant mothers, with especial focus of the effects on their fetuses.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant health concern for children with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT). To address the limited data on CKD prevalence and risk factors in Ethiopia, this study focuses on a specific cohort of CAKUT patients at the pediatric renal unit of Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital. We aim to determine the prevalence of CKD in Ethiopian CAKUT patients, identify independent predictors of advanced stage CKD, and explore the distribution of CKD among different CAKUT phenotypes. Medical charts of children with CAKUT who visited pediatric renal unit were reviewed. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent predictors of advanced CKD. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.The study included 129 male subjects (70.9%). Only 25.3% of CAKUT cases were diagnosed prenatally. About 52.2% of patients had unilateral CAKUT. Posterior urethral valves (PUV) were the most commonly diagnosed CAKUT phenotypes (27.5%). Fifty-three (29.1%) of the patients had CKD, and stage 3 was the most diagnosed CKD (37.7%). CKD development was observed more frequently in patients with isolated PUV (39.6%). Factors like low birthweight, prematurity at birth, and the presence of bilateral CAKUT emerged as independent risk factors for developing advanced stage CKD. This study reveals a significant burden of CKD in children and adolescents with CAKUT. Despite its importance, prenatal CAKUT detection remains low. Posterior urethral valves are the most prevalent phenotype, associated with a higher risk of CKD. The research also highlights independent predictors for advanced CKD development.

Abstract Background Birth defects (BDs) are the major causes of infant morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries. Regardless of their clinical importance, few studies on predisposing factors have been conducted in Ethiopia. However, due to a lack of advanced diagnostic materials, we only considered the externally visible BDs. Objective To assess the determinants of externally visible birth defects among perinatal deaths at Adama Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Methods A retrospective unmatched case-control study design was conducted from November 01 to 30, 2021. The sample size was determined by Epi Info version 7 software considering sample size calculation for an unmatched case-control study. A total of 315 participants (63 cases, and 252 controls) were selected by simple random sampling. Data were collected by an open data kit (ODK) and transported to a statical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 26 software for analysis. The bivariate followed by multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to determine the factors associated with the BD. Results This study showed that drinking alcohol during pregnancy (AOR = 6.575; 95% CI: 3.102,13.937), lack of antenatal care (ANC) follow-up during pregnancy (AOR = 2.794; 95% CI: 1.333, 5.859), having a history of stillbirth in a previous pregnancy (AOR = 3.967; 95% CI: 1.772, 8.881), exposure to pesticides during pregnancy (AOR = 4.840; 95% CI: 1.375, 17.034), having a history of BDs in a previous pregnancy (AOR = 4.853; 95% CI: 1.492, 15.788), and lack of folic acid supplementation during early pregnancy (AOR = 4.324; 95% CI: 2.062, 9.067) were significant determinants of externally visible BDs among perinatal deaths. Conclusion In this study, alcohol use, exposure to pesticides, and lack of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy were identified as the major determinants of externally visible BDs among perinatal deaths. Thus, health education regarding the associated factors of BDs and their preventive strategies should be given to pregnant mothers.

Background:Justicia schimperiana has been widely used for the treatment of various human ailments without scientific proof for chronic toxicity. Thus, this study is aimed to evaluate the chronic toxicity of 80% methanolic extracts of the leaves of Justicia schimperiana in rats. Methods:An 80% crude methanolic extract of the plant leaves was orally administered to Wistar albino rats for 6 months. The experiment was conducted in accordance with the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development's guideline number 452. Twenty rats per group and sex were randomly assigned to three treatment groups and a control group. Daily doses of 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg of the extract diluted with distilled water were administered orally to the rats. Rats in the control group received distilled water orally. Weekly body weight and daily food intake were measured. At the end, rats were sacrificed for histopathological, biochemical and hematological tests. The statistical analysis was done using the Kruskal-Wallis test and one-way analysis of variance. Results:Six months daily oral administration of the plant extract did not significantly affect the rats' food consumption, organ weight, and histopathology. Rats treated with 1000 mg/kg extract, however, significantly increased liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase), and kidney function tests (creatinine and urea). Additionally, the high dose extract administered rats showed significantly lower red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit compared to the control group. Conclusion:Six months oral administration in Wistar albino rats in this experiment indicated that Justicia schimperiana is relatively safe at lower and medium doses. However, increased liver enzymes, increased kidney function tests and decreased red blood cell indices was observed in rats treated at higher doses. To obtain a thorough understanding of the plant's toxicity profile, it is advised that future studies be conducted on teratogenicity and reproductive toxicity.

INTRODUCTION:Little is known about the fetal and pregnancy effects of khat chewing during pregnancy. The aim of the current study was to determine the impact of chewing khat during pregnancy on selected pregnancy outcomes in Ethiopia, 2022: A Cohort Study with a Generalized Structural Equation Modeling Analysis Approach. METHODS:An institution-based prospective cohort study was employed in selected hospitals in eastern Ethiopia. Pregnant women who visited the selected hospitals in the study area during the study period that fulfilled the eligibility criteria were included until a sample size (344) was fulfilled. The main outcomes studied in the present study were preterm birth and low birth weight. Data were collected through anthropometric and clinical measurements, and interviewers administered questionnaires. The survival analysis and generalized linear model analysis were performed to estimate the crude and adjusted relative risk and attributable risk. The Generalized Structural Equation Modeling (GSEM) analysis was performed using the Statistical software for data science (Stata) 'GSEM' command to examine the mediation effect. RESULTS:The risk of occurrence of preterm birth was significantly higher among khat chewers [adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 2.19; 95%CI 1.21-3.96]. In further analysis after adjusting for gestational hypertension and cesarean delivery, the regression coefficient of khat chewing during pregnancy on preterm birth has been decreased in size from path n, β = 0.37, p<0.001 to path n', β = 0.15, p<0.005. The risk of occurrence of low birth weight among khat chewers was significantly higher (aRR = 4.17; 95%CI 2.11-8.25). In further analysis after adjusting for gestational hypertension, cesarean delivery, preterm birth and maternal anemia, the regression coefficient of khat chewing during pregnancy on low birth weight has been decreased in size from path q, β = 0.4, p<0.001 to path q', β = 0.2, p<0.001. CONCLUSION:Overall, the present study revealed that khat chewing is not only a worry of the current population but also a public health concern of the generation affecting unborn fetuses.

Background Fetal malnutrition (FM) is inability to gain a sufficient amount of muscle mass and stoutness during prenatal growth. It has both immediate and long-term effects in early neonatal and late adulthood. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess FM incidence using clinical nutritional assessment (CAN) score and evaluate CAN score with anthropometry to develop simple and reliable screening algorithm. Methods Institution-based study was carried out at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (DMCSH). Only term singleton newborns were measured for weight, head circumference (HC), crown-heel length, and midarm circumference (MAC). Ponderal index (PI), body mass index (BMI), and MAC to HC ratio were computed. Nutritional status of newborns was evaluated using CAN score within 24 hours of delivery. Stata version 14 software was used for data analysis. Results In this study, 422 term newborns were participated. FM incidence was 13.74% by CAN score. About 15.40, 13.03, and 7.58% of malnourished newborns were identified through MAC/HC, BMI, and PI, respectively. Sensitivities of PI, MAC to HC, and BMI were 48.28, 81.03, and 86.21%, respectively. Specificities of PI, BMI, and MAC to HC were 98.90, 98.63, and 95.05%, respectively. Conclusions Almost one in every seven newborns had FM by the CAN score. The BMI had greatest sensitivity, while the PI exhibited highest specificity in detecting FM. Therefore, birth attendants lacking training in CAN score can rapidly assess FM using a combination of BMI and PI.

Introduction: khat (Catha edulis Forsk), is an evergreen flowering tree or shrub widely produced and consumed in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. In Ethiopia, it is largely produced, freely marketed and consumed by almost all segments of the population. This is more pronounced in the eastern part of the country. However, there exists little scientific information on the level and associated factors of khat use among pregnant women in Ethiopia, despite a few available evidences indicated its adverse effect on pregnancy outcomes. Moreover, the perceived reasons for chewing khat during pregnancy were not yet explored qualitatively to triangulate the quantitative findings. Hence, the aim of the present study was to determine the magnitude and associated factors of chewing khat during pregnancy in eastern Ethiopia, 2022, in a Mixed Method study approach. Methods: an institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August 1(st) to 14(th), 2022 using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Two hundred forty-two pregnant mothers on Antenatal care (ANC) were included in the study. Moreover, 18 purposively selected pregnant mothers on ANC were also considered for qualitative data. Analysis of quantitative data was performed on Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 and thematic framework analysis was performed for qualitative data. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables which are significantly associated with khat chewing during pregnancy and to estimate the variable's crude and adjusted odds' ratio with corresponding 95% CI. The statistically significant association was declared at p-value of less than 5% Results: the overall magnitude of chewing khat during pregnancy in the present study was 27.4% (95% CI: 22.2-33.0). Variables which significantly associated with chewing khat during pregnancy in this study were being >26 years [adjusted odds' ratio (AOR)=2.81 95% CI: 1.19-6.59], being a rural resident (AOR=2.82 95% CI: 1.19-6.69), being illiterate (AOR=4.31 95% CI: 1.02-18.20), participants having chewer husbands (AOR=3.51 95% CI: 1.33-9.24) and respondents having other chewer family members (AOR=3.05 95% CI: 1.19-7.77). In addition, the perceived reasons for chewing khat explored through in-depth interviews were for socialization, to obey tradition, to be happy with friends, husbands and families, to be free from tensioned situations, to be effective in performing daily activities, and due to lack of knowledge of its harm Conclusion: in the present study, a relatively higher proportion of mothers chewed khat during their current pregnancy. Being older age, living in rural areas, being illiterate, having khat chewer husbands and other family members were statistically significant variables associated with khat chewing during pregnancy. Moreover, pregnant mothers are practicing chewing of khat in the current study area due to deep-rooted sociocultural issues. Hence, creation of awareness on possible harm of chewing khat during pregnancy especially for those found to be at significantly increased risk of consumption in this study is highly recommended during their antenatal care visits. In addition, creation of awareness out of health institutions, at household and community level, is highly recommended, probably using community volunteers (health development armies) in the present study area. At last, we highly also recommend the local government and religious leaders to work on how to stop the chewing practice especially during pregnancy. For example, the local government and religious leaders can work on averting consideration of chewing by the community as culturally accepted practices.

Background The leading global contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is valvular heart disease. It is on the rise worldwide, including in the developing countries. However, the prevalence, patterns, and etiologies of valvular heart disease have not been well studied in Ethiopia. Hence, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, patterns, and etiologies of valvular heart disease at the Cardiac Center of Ethiopia from February 2000 to April 2022. Methods This institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted between February 2000 and April 2022. Data from three thousand two hundred fifty-seven VHD were extracted from the electronic medical records and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics, such as the frequency, mean ± standard deviation, and cross tabulations, were used to summarize the data. Results Of 10,588 total cardiac cases registered and treated at the Cardiac Centre of Ethiopia from February 2000 to April 2022, 30.8% (3257) were diagnosed with VHD. The most typical diagnosis for VHD was multi-valvular involvement, which accounted for 49.5% of cases (1612), followed by pulmonary stenosis (15%) and mitral regurgitation (14.3%). Females were more likely to develop valve diseases than males, being at the highest risk for each identified etiology of valve disease 1928 (59.2%). The majority percentages of the population affected by VHD were between 18 and 44 age category 1473 (45.2%). The most common etiology of VHD was rheumatic 2015 (61.87%), followed by congenital origin 828 (25.42%). Conclusion VHD affects nearly one-third of all cardiac cases admitted to the hospital. Multi-valvular involvement is the most commonly diagnosed form of VHD. Rheumatic causes were more prevalent in this study. As found in this study, VHD affects a significant percentage of the population, which in turn could have an impact on the country’s economy and deserve attention as a possible means of intervention.

Background. Neural tube defects are a type of congenital anomaly caused by an abnormality in the development of the brain and spinal cord during embryogenesis. They cause high rates of mortality, morbidity, and lifelong disability. There are several studies carried out worldwide reporting different findings on the burden and associated factors. The aim of this study is to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis of the burden of neural tube defects and their associated factors in Africa. Methods. A total of 58 eligible articles were identified systematically using databases such as PubMed, Embase, African Journal Online Library, ProQuest, Cochrane, Google Scopus, Google Scholar, and Grey literature. Extracted data were analyzed using STATA 16.0 statistical software. The heterogeneity of studies was determined using the Cochrane Q test statistic and I 2 test statistics with forest plots. A random effects model was used to examine the pooled burden of neural tube defects, subgroups of the region, subtypes of NTDs, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias. The association between NTDs and associated factors was studied using a fixed-effect model. Results. Fifty-eight studies with a total of 7,150,654 participants in 16 African countries revealed that the pooled burden of neural tube defects was 32.95 per 10,000 births (95% CI: 29.77-36.13). The Eastern African region had the highest burden in the subgroup analysis, with 111.13 per 10,000 births (95% CI: 91.85–130.42). South African countries had the lowest burden, at 11.43 per 10,000 births (95% CI: 7.51–15.34). In subtype analysis, spina bifida had the highest pooled burden at 17.01 per 10,000 births (95 percent CI: 15.00-19.00), while encephalocele had the lowest at 1.66 per 10,000 births (95% CI: 1.12-2.20). Maternal folic acid supplementation (AOR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16-0.94), alcohol consumption (AOR: 2.54; 95% CI: 1.08-5.96), maternal age (AOR: 3.54; 95% CI: 1.67-7.47), pesticide exposure (AOR: 2.69; 95% CI: 1.62-4.46), X-ray radiation (AOR: 2.67; 95% CI: 1.05-6.78), and history of stillbirth (AOR: 3.18; 95% CI: 1.11-9.12) were significantly associated with NTDs. Conclusion. The pooled burden of NTDs in Africa was found to be high. Maternal age, alcohol consumption, pesticide and X-ray radiation exposure, history of stillbirth, and folic acid supplementation were significantly associated with NTDs.

Purpose:This study evaluates the acute and sub-acute toxicity of 80% methanolic extracts of the leaves of Justicia schimperiana in Wistar albino rat models.Methods:Dried powdered leaves of Justicia schimperiana were macerated in 80% methanol. The experiment was conducted in accordance with the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guideline 423 for acute and 407 for sub-acute toxicity testing. A single dose of 5000 mg/kg extract was orally administered to three female rats for the acute toxicity study. The plant extract was administered orally for 28 days in daily dosages of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg for the sub-acute study. Animals in a control group were given distilled water. A total of 40 rats (5 rats/group/sex) were used for the sub-acute toxicity testing. Daily food intake and weekly body weight measurements were done. The rats were sacrificed at the end of the 28-day treatment period for hematological, biochemical, and histopathological tests. One-way analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis tests were employed for the analysis.Results:The single-dose oral administration of the plant resulted in no deaths or serious morbidity. The median lethal dose was >5000 mg/kg. The 28-day oral treatment of the plant extract had no significant effect on general behavior, food intake, organ weight, biochemical parameters, or the majority of the hematological markers, with the exception of the decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit in the 1000 mg/kg extract-treated groups compared to the controls. Both sexes experienced significant weight increases at all dosage levels. With the exception of minor alterations in a few of the organs, no significant histological change was identified.Conclusion:It is concluded that the single-dose and repeated-dose 28-day oral administration of the methanolic leaf extract of Justicia schimperiana is relatively safe.

Background Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a common clinical problem encountered during the neonatal period, especially in the first week of life. Available clinical guidelines note that early detection and intervention of infants at risk of severe hyperbilirubinemia can facilitate timely and effective prevention of the associated complications. Methods The international databases, PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library, and unpublished reports were systematically searched. Two authors independently extracted all necessary data using a standardized data extraction format. STATA 14 statistical software was employed to analyze the data. The Cochrane Q test statistics and I 2 tests were used to assess the heterogeneity between the studies. A random-effect model was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence of pathological neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in Ethiopia. Determinants of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia were analyzed. Results Ten studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The I 2 test result showed high heterogeneity (I 2 , 98.3%, P = <.001). Using the random effect analysis, the pooled prevalence of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in Ethiopia was 35.90% (95% confidence interval [CI] [23.79, 48.01]). The results from these studies revealed that the occurrence of pathological neonatal hyperbilirubinemia was significantly associated with the presence of ABO blood incompatibility, Rh isoimmunization, neonatal sepsis (odds ratio [OR]: 4.44; CI: 1.72,11.46), birth asphyxia (OR:1.74; CI: 1.08,2.80), low birth weight (OR: 2.22; CI: 1.46,3.31), and prolonged labor (OR: 3.24; CI: 1.05,10.0). Conclusion The burden of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is higher in our country as compared with others. ABO blood incompatibility, Rh isoimmunization, neonatal sepsis, birth asphyxia, low birth weight, and prolonged labor were significantly associated with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Background:Vernix caseosa is a complex proteolipid material synthesized partly by fetal sebaceous glands during the last trimester of pregnancy. Understanding the structure and function of newborn skin is crucial for determining optimal thermal support, infection control, and skin moisturization. So far, in Ethiopia, there is no research done related to the distribution of vernix caseosa and associated factors on newborn skin. Doing such research could give awareness about factors associated with the distribution of vernix caseosa on newborns' skin and to take necessary protective measures for those that may be affected.Objective:The objective of this study is to assess the distribution of vernix caseosa and associated factors among newborns delivered at Adama Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Medical College from November to December 1, 2021.Methodology:Hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from November to December 1, 2021 at Adama Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Medical College (ACSHMC). Four hundred twenty-two eligible newborns were selected by a systematic sampling method. Data were collected by four data collectors by using a pretested questionnaire. The distribution of vernix caseosa on the different regions of the neonate was assessed, by exposing their whole body for a minute. Data entry was done by EPI data version 4.6 and analyzed by using SPSS version 25. A logistic regression of P-value of <0.25 during bivariate and P < 0.05 during multivariate analysis at a 95% confidence level was considered statistically significant.Results:Out of 422 study participants 231 (54.7%) with 95% CI (49.8, 59.8) babies had vernix caseosa. Being primiparous with (AOR = 1.9, PV = 0.013, 95% CI: 1.141, 2.92), being multiparous with (AOR = 1.98, PV = 0.04, CI: 1.29, 3.225), being females with (AOR = 2.1, PV = 0.001, CI: 1.39, 3.18), being preterm with (AOR = 2.98, PV = 0.036, 95% CI: 1.08, 10.72), non-diseased newborns with (AOR = 1.6, PV = 0.046, 95% CI: 1.07, 2.7) were identified as associated factors for the distribution of vernix caseosa on the newborn skin.Conclusion:This study showed that the distribution of vernix caseosa on the skin of the newborns was associated with parity, sex, gestational age, and absence of disease.

Introduction: Various trial and epidemiological studies consistently documented the association between maternal folic acid supplementations and neural tube defects. However, existing literatures revealed inconclusive findings about maternal periconceptional folic acid supplementations and the risk of congenital heart defects. Thus, the current systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to estimate the pooled association between maternal periconceptional folic acid supplementations and congenital heart defects. Methods: Electronic searches of PubMed, Web of Science/Scopus, Cochrane library and Google Scholar databases were conducted to access the required studies published up to March 2021. Predetermined eligibility criteria were used for study selections. Data extraction were independently done on excel. STATA version 14 software was used to calculate the pooled effect size with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of maternal periconceptional folic acid supplementations on congenital heart defects using the DerSimonian and Laird random effects meta-analysis (random effects model). Statistical heterogeneity was checked using the Cochran Q test (chi-squared statistic), I 2 statistic, and by visual inspection of the funnel plot. Results: A total of 37 studies of case–control, cohort and randomized controlled trial in nature were included in the review. The finding of the present systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that periconceptional folic acid supplementation significantly decreases the risk of congenital heart defects (risk ratio (RR), 0.79; CI, 0.71, 0.89). Both Cochrane Q test statistic (χ 2 = 19.33, p = 0.962) and I 2 test statistic (I 2 = 0.0%, p = 0.962) did not reveal statistically significant heterogeneity among included studies. In this meta-analysis, traditional funnel plot, Begg’s funnel plot, Egger’s weighted regression (p = 0.13) as well as Begg’s rank correlation statistic (p = 0.676) revealed no evidence of publication bias. Conclusion: The present systematic review and meta-analysis found that maternal periconception folic acid supplementation was significantly associated with the risk of congenital heart defects. The risk of congenital heart defects was significantly reduced by 21% among those children of mothers who use periconceptional folic acid supplementations in high-income countries. We recommend that a large prospective study be conducted to investigate the association between maternal periconceptional folic acid supplementation and occurrence of congenital heart defect of various types, especially in the developing countries.

•Renal vascular variations are among the commonest variations identified in kidney donors.•Accessory renal artery is the most common variant renal vasculature.•Increased rate of renal vascular variation could be attributed to the male gender.

INTRODUCTION:Anencephaly is a form of neural tube defect, which develops when the cranial neuropore is unable to close. It is one of the fatal anomalies of the neural tube. Although most of the causes of anencephaly are unknown, multiple risk factors are associated with this defect. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the incidence and associated risk factors of anencephaly in Dessie town, in the north eastern region of Ethiopia.METHODS:An institution-based unmatched case-control study was conducted. Sociodemographic characteristics of pregnant women were collected with a structured questionnaire and clinical data were recorded during an ultrasound examination. Data were entered into Epi Info 7 and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Binary logistic regression was applied to detect the associations between risk factors and the occurrence of anencephaly.RESULTS:The incidence of anencephaly was 3.3/1000 pregnancies. The multivariate logistic regression model indicated that maternal age between 26 and 30 years and khat chewing during pregnancy were significantly associated with anencephaly (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02-0.97, p=0.046; and OR 3.571, 95% CI 1.06-12.06, p=0.04, respectively). Exposure to typhus and typhoid and the use of antihypertensive drugs during early pregnancy were also significantly correlated as anencephaly risk factors. Furthermore, spina bifida simultaneously occurred with anencephaly significantly (p<0.05).CONCLUSION:It is suggested that exposure to risk factors such as khat chewing during pregnancy may predispose to the development of anencephaly.