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Research Article
A Theory of Change to Increase First Trimester Antenatal Care (Anc1) Attendance at Nsiika Health Centre IV, Buhweju District, Uganda
Kennedy Ssejjengo*
,
Isaac Edyedu,
Philip Muhamya,
Caroline Tukamushaba
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
21-29
Received:
13 January 2026
Accepted:
27 January 2026
Published:
28 May 2026
Abstract: Early initiation of antenatal care (ANC) during the first trimester is a critical determinant of maternal and neonatal health outcomes. However, despite national and World Health Organization recommendations, first-trimester antenatal care (ANC1) attendance remains suboptimal in many rural settings in Uganda. At Nsiika Health Centre IV in Buhweju District, only 62% of pregnant women initiated ANC within the first trimester in 2025, indicating persistent gaps in timely maternal health service utilization. This paper presents a context-specific Theory of Change (ToC) developed to improve first-trimester ANC attendance at Nsiika Health Centre IV by addressing locally relevant socio-cultural, geographical, and health system barriers influencing maternal health-seeking behavior. This study aimed to design a practical, evidence-informed framework to guide district-level interventions for increasing early ANC uptake and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. The ToC was developed using routine District Health Information Software (DHIS2) data, facility performance reviews, maternal health indicators, and district health priorities. Key barriers identified included delayed pregnancy confirmation, limited community awareness of early ANC benefits, long distances to health facilities, and inadequate community-level follow-up. The proposed framework integrates community-based strategies such as Village Health Team (VHT) engagement, home-based pregnancy screening using human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) tests, targeted health education, and integrated community outreaches with facility-level interventions focused on improving service readiness, client experience, and continuity of care. The Theory of Change assumes that early identification of pregnancy, strengthened community facility linkages, and improved service responsiveness will lead to timely ANC initiation, increased institutional deliveries, and improved maternal and neonatal outcomes. By tailoring interventions to the Nsiika context, this ToC provides a scalable model for improving early ANC uptake in rural, resource-constrained settings and supports district efforts to increase ANC1 attendance to 95% by 2027.
Abstract: Early initiation of antenatal care (ANC) during the first trimester is a critical determinant of maternal and neonatal health outcomes. However, despite national and World Health Organization recommendations, first-trimester antenatal care (ANC1) attendance remains suboptimal in many rural settings in Uganda. At Nsiika Health Centre IV in Buhweju D...
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Review Article
Review on Milk Production Performance of Dairy Cattle in Ethiopia
Ediris Abdulkadir Meko*
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
30-37
Received:
16 May 2026
Accepted:
29 May 2026
Published:
18 June 2026
Abstract: This review paper is aims to overview the Milk Production Performance of Dairy Cattle in Ethiopia to recommend strategic intervention for improving milk production performance that match the population growth and strengthen the contribution of the dairy industry in Ethiopia's national economy. Dairy production systems were categorized into 2 main systems: rural or traditional dairy production system which includes (pastoralists, agro- pastoralists, and mixed crop–livestock producers) and urban and peri-urban dairy systems. In Ethiopia, dairy production is based on subsistence smallholder farmers and most of the production comes from local dairy cattle, which results in low production and productivity and does not meet with the growing demand for milk. To commensurate milk production with the demand local dairy cow breeds are being improved through crossbreeding with exotic breeds. Crossbred dairy cows have more milk production performances than local breeds due to heterosis effect. Indigenous breed cows which produces low milk yield, contributes the main milk production that account for ninety seven percent of the total milk production of Ethiopia. The average lactation length for local breeds is six months, while the average lactation length of exotic breeds is 305 days and results in higher milk yields under intensive management. However, milk production performance of the cows is being affected by poor quality and unaffordable feed resources, animal diseases like mastitis and climatic stresses.
Abstract: This review paper is aims to overview the Milk Production Performance of Dairy Cattle in Ethiopia to recommend strategic intervention for improving milk production performance that match the population growth and strengthen the contribution of the dairy industry in Ethiopia's national economy. Dairy production systems were categorized into 2 main s...
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Research Article
Experimental Determination of Electron-to-Charge Mass Ratio in Physics Laboratory
Shambel Gizachew Admassie,
Agumassie Ayenew Addis*
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
38-48
Received:
18 May 2026
Accepted:
28 May 2026
Published:
23 June 2026
Abstract: The charge-to-mass ratio (e/m) of the electron is a fundamental physical constant essential for understanding the behavior of charged particles within electromagnetic fields and the development of atomic theory. This study details the experimental determination of the e/m ratio conducted at the Debre Markos University Physics Laboratory using a Helmholtz coil apparatus and a fine beam tube. The experiment's primary objective was to verify the theoretical relationship between an electron's circular trajectory, its accelerating potential, and the applied magnetic field strength. The research employed a dual-variable data acquisition strategy to ensure accuracy and reliability. In the first approach, the accelerating voltage was varied from 100 V to 190 V while maintaining constant coil currents between 2.00A and 2.50A. In the second approach, the coil current was varied between 1.01A and 1.9A while holding the accelerating voltage constant at intervals up to 199.8 V. By measuring the radius (r) of the visible electron beam, the study analyzed the linear relationship between the square of the radius (r2) and the accelerating voltage (V), as well as the inverse square of the current (1/I2). Linear regression analysis of the gathered data yielded high coefficients of determination (R2), ranging from 0.9898 to 0.9978, with an average of approximately 0.993. These values confirm a strong agreement with the theoretical models derived from the Lorentz force and the work-energy theorem. The experimentally determined mean value for the e/m ratio was 1.7488 \times 1011 C/kg. Compared to the internationally accepted value of 1.7588 \times 1011 C/kg, the experiment produced an average percentage error of 2.75%. Minor discrepancies were attributed to systematic and random errors, such as parallax when reading the mirrored scale, the influence of the Earth’s magnetic field, and minor fluctuations in the DC power supply. Despite these limitations, the results demonstrate that the Helmholtz coil method provides a robust and reliable verification of the electron's intrinsic properties. The study concludes that the experimental setup effectively illustrates the principles of classical electromagnetism and particle dynamics.
Abstract: The charge-to-mass ratio (e/m) of the electron is a fundamental physical constant essential for understanding the behavior of charged particles within electromagnetic fields and the development of atomic theory. This study details the experimental determination of the e/m ratio conducted at the Debre Markos University Physics Laboratory using a Hel...
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Research Article
Determinants of Livelihood Diversification Among
Agro-Pastoral Households in Bero and Gorigesha Woredas, West Omo Zone, Ethiopia
Mathiwos Kifle*,
Netsanet Gizaw
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
49-57
Received:
29 April 2026
Accepted:
28 May 2026
Published:
25 June 2026
Abstract: This study investigates the determinants of livelihood diversification among agro-pastoral households in Bero and Gorigesha Woredas, West Omo Zone, Southwest Ethiopia. Primary data for this study was collected from 371 households, complemented by secondary sources. The analysis was carried out using both descriptive and econometric technique of analysis. Descriptive analysis revealed four main livelihood strategies; on-farm, on-farm + non-farm, on-farm + off-farm, and on-farm + off-farm + non-farm with the majority (36.66%) engaged in on-farm + off-farm activities. Further, the econometric analysis was conducted using a multinomial logit model (MNL), and identified age, education, family size, credit access, input use, saving status, distance from main road, cooperative membership, and risk management practices as significant determinants of livelihood diversification in the study area. Except for family size, which negatively influenced livelihood diversification, all factors positively affected engagement beyond solely on-farm activities. Furthermore, the results indicate that both socioeconomic and institutional factors shape households’ livelihood strategies. Enhancing diversification requires targeted interventions of concerned bodies which include improved access to credit, provision of agricultural inputs, promotion of saving practices, risk management training, and expanded educational opportunities. These measures are essential for strengthening household resilience, income stability, and sustainable development in the study area.
Abstract: This study investigates the determinants of livelihood diversification among agro-pastoral households in Bero and Gorigesha Woredas, West Omo Zone, Southwest Ethiopia. Primary data for this study was collected from 371 households, complemented by secondary sources. The analysis was carried out using both descriptive and econometric technique of ana...
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Research Article
Intelligent Systems in the Service of Cultural Heritage:
The CARE Architecture for Concept-Aligned Ceramics Restoration
Tatyana Nikolaevna Krasnova*
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
58-63
Received:
28 April 2026
Accepted:
13 May 2026
Published:
25 June 2026
Abstract: The restoration of archaeological ceramics is an intricate process built upon a rigorous system of concepts that bridge foundational theory and practical conservation. Building on previous efforts to systematize key terminology, this paper emphasizes the critical need for an unambiguous conceptual framework capable of guiding intervention goals and facilitating objective quality assessments. We present the CARE architecture (Concept-Aligned Restoration with Evidence), a research program designed for the seamless integration of advanced intelligent systems into the restoration workflow. Unlike generic AI approaches, CARE maintains the semantics of archaeology, museology, and conservation science as its core domain. We detail how contemporary intelligent tools—including graph neural networks, multimodal models, and differentiable simulation—can support documentation, automated fragment reassembly, condition diagnostics, and intervention planning while strictly adhering to the principles of reversibility and respect for cultural values. Central to this proposal is the CERAMON knowledge graph, a concept-oriented framework fully aligned with international standards such as CIDOC CRM. Particular emphasis is placed on risk-aware decision-making models and generative reconstructions of missing elements operating under mathematically grounded uncertainty. We introduce a set of specialized metrics—indices for semantic authenticity (S), irreversibility risk (Q), and intervention footprint (I)—designed to translate ethical principles into measurable data. This work addresses a multidisciplinary audience, seeking to align the progress of intelligent systems with human expertise, ethical governance, and the enhancement of public trust in the digital preservation of cultural heritage.
Abstract: The restoration of archaeological ceramics is an intricate process built upon a rigorous system of concepts that bridge foundational theory and practical conservation. Building on previous efforts to systematize key terminology, this paper emphasizes the critical need for an unambiguous conceptual framework capable of guiding intervention goals and...
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Research Article
Hygienic Practice, Isolation and Antibiogram Profiles of S. aureus from Goat Meat at Butcher House in Chelenko and Kulubi Towns, Eastern Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
64-78
Received:
29 May 2026
Accepted:
11 June 2026
Published:
29 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.innov.20260702.16
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Abstract: Staphylococcus aureus contamination originating from meat represents a significant global public health concern, particularly in developing nations such as Ethiopia. A cross-sectional investigation was carried out between September 2022 and March 2023 to evaluate goat meat handling practices and determine the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of S. aureus in the towns of Chelenko and Kulubi. A total of 206 swab specimens were collected from goat meat and environmental sources and tested for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus. All specimens underwent serial dilution to quantify the bacterial load in goat meat obtained from butcher shops. Additionally, 42 butcher shop workers with diverse demographic backgrounds were interviewed regarding their meat handling practices. Of the 206 total specimens (120 from goat meat and 86 from contact surfaces within butcher establishments), an overall prevalence of 24.8% of the organism was isolated. When categorized by specimen type, the highest prevalence was observed on cutting board swabs (35%), followed by worker hands (30.8%), while the lowest prevalence was recorded from meat samples (20.8%). Similarly, by sampling location, a higher prevalence was detected in Chelenko (27.2%) compared to Kulubi town (22.3%) for meat swab specimens. No statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed in S. aureus prevalence between towns or among sample types. The mean bacterial counts were 5.56 ± 0.276 log10 CFU/cm2 for Chelenko and 5.42 ± 0.309 log10 CFU/cm2 for Kulubi. No significant difference was found in S. aureus load across sample sources in either town (p > 0.05). S. aureus isolates from goat meat demonstrated high resistance rates to amoxicillin (66.7%), penicillin-G (62.8%), and ampicillin (52.7%), whereas high susceptibility was observed to vancomycin (94%), gentamicin (88.2%), and kanamycin (86.3%). A questionnaire survey was also conducted to assess hygienic handling practices and potential risk factors associated with goat meat contamination in the study area. Poor meat handling practices and low community awareness regarding meat hygiene were observed in both towns, a finding consistent with the non-significant distribution of S. aureus across sampling locations and sites. Consequently, improving community awareness through education on hygienic meat handling is strongly recommended.
Abstract: Staphylococcus aureus contamination originating from meat represents a significant global public health concern, particularly in developing nations such as Ethiopia. A cross-sectional investigation was carried out between September 2022 and March 2023 to evaluate goat meat handling practices and determine the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibi...
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Research Article
Genotype by Environment Interaction and Stability Analysis for Potato (Solanum Tuberosum l.) Genotypes in North Shewa Zone of Oromia Region
Issue:
Volume 7, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
79-86
Received:
13 May 2026
Accepted:
4 June 2026
Published:
29 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.innov.20260702.17
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Views:
Abstract: Studying genotype-by-environment interaction and determining representative testing environments are important for releasing new varieties with high mean performance and stability. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Ten potato genotypes were evaluated to study their adaptability and stability in six environments of North Shewa Zone of Oromia Region. Multivariate methods (AMMI and GGE biplot) were used to identify high yielding and stable genotypes. The result of AMMI`s analysis of variance showed that genotype, Environment and genotype-by-environment interaction, and interaction principal component analysis (IPCA-I and IPCA-II) had significant effects on tuber yield. Genotype variance was the most significant source of variation, accounting for 53.43% of the total variation. The AMMI model's first two IPCAs (IPCA-I and IPCA-II) explained about 84.18% of the total GE interaction. GGE biplot analysis grouped the six test sites into one mega environments. CIP-313022. 68 (G07), CIP-313022. 218 (G05), and CIP-313034. 03 (G02) were the most stable and high-yielding genotypes across test environments, whereas G03 was a low-yielded and unstable variety. G04 was highly stable in tested locations and high yields. AMMI and GGE bi-plot analysis identified that CIP-313022. 68 (G07) and CIP-313022. 218 (G05) are high-performing and stable across test sites. The highest-yielding and stable genotypes, CIP-313022. 68 (G07) and CIP-313022. 218 (G05), were proposed and recommended for release in North Shewa Zone Oromia Region.
Abstract: Studying genotype-by-environment interaction and determining representative testing environments are important for releasing new varieties with high mean performance and stability. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Ten potato genotypes were evaluated to study their adaptability and stability in...
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