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Annual Research Dissemination Conference 3
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Recent Submissions

Factors associated with the uptake of cataract surgery among adults identified with operable cataract in South Western Uganda
(Journal of Ophthalmology of Eastern, Central and Southern Africa (JOECSA), 2025) Kanji R; Onyango J; Twinamasiko A; Arunga S
Objective: To determine the factors associated with the uptake of cataract surgery among adults identified with operable cataract in South Western Uganda. Methods: In a hospital-based cross-sectional study, patients presenting with operable cataract at two large tertiary level eye hospitals in south-western Uganda were prospectively consecutively enrolled between, October 2020 to January 2021. Operable cataract was defined, as a best-corrected visual acuity equal or less than 6/60 where the principal cause is cataract. The outcome of interest was undergoing a cataract surgery within 3 months of diagnosis. In a multivariable logistic regression model, we tested for social demographic and other baseline features associated with uptake of a cataract operation. Results: During the study period, a total of 400 patients with operable cataract were enrolled out of a total outpatient attendance of 1692 in the two hospitals (23.6%). The median age was 71 (IQR 65-80, full-range 30-102) and 222 (55.5%) were female. Most were married 242 (60.5%), the majority with no formal education 184 (46%). The most common occupation was being a peasant 256 (64%). The majority of the patients were household heads 285 (71.2%) and a large proportion required an escort to the hospital 384 (87%). Bilateral operable cataract was present in 146 (36.5%). Within the study period, the uptake of cataract surgery was 64% 95% CI (59- 68). In a multivariable logistic regression model, <50 years (OR 3.0, 95% CI (1.26 – 7.23) P-value = 0.021), female gender (OR 1.5, 95% CI (1.04 – 2.34) P-value=0.032) and bilaterally affected eyes (OR 2.95, 95% CI (1.8 – 4.8) P-value 0.001) were associated with uptake of cataract surgery. Conclusion: This study showed that younger patients compared to older ones, females compared to males and bilaterally affected patients compared to unilateral were more likely to uptake cataract surgery. This provides useful background information for planning improvements in the uptake of cataract services.
Exploring potential opportunities and strategies of using the Labour Care Guide to improve labour monitoring and health outcomes among health care providers in Uganda: a qualitative study
(BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2025) Mugyenyi R. Godfrey; Esther C. Atukunda; Wilson Tumuhimbise; Yarine F. Farjardo; Josaphat Byamugisha
Background: Labour monitoring tracks cervical dilation, contractions, and foetal heart rate to ensure safe childbirth. Prolonged labour is identified when progress exceeds expected timelines, shown on the partograph or Labour Care Guide (LCG). The LCG helps health care providers detect abnormal labour patterns early. This study explored how the LCG could enhance labour monitoring in Uganda, identifying strategies to improve maternal and foetal outcomes through timely assessments and interventions. Methods: Between June and September 2023, qualitative interviews were held with Health Care Providers and Ministry of Health officials familiar with the Labour Care Guide. Conducted privately and digitally recorded, the interviews were transcribed and coded. Through iterative analysis, researchers identified multilevel factors influencing sustained engagement in labour monitoring and the uptake and implementation of the LCG. Results: The median age of the interviewed HCPs was 36 years(IQR,27-54). All participants demonstrated great enthusiasm, describing the LCG as a simple, easy-to-use and comprehensive tool that could quickly aid detection of prolonged labour for timely management, if modified appropriately. HCPs identified LCG’s potential to facilitate sustained use through perceived ability to correctly define active labour at 5 cm of cervical dilatation, with major labour parameters recorded on one-A4-paper for easy comparison and reference. LCG facilitated HCP-patient labour companion interaction for social support and would undergo customization to address user needs, enhance accountability and reduce over-documentation since the same single-page format could capture all the necessary details needed to make a one-stop quick and effective clinical decision. HCPs underscored the role and sustained benefits of off-site training, team building, guidelines accessibility, real-time feedback, peer mentorships and championships. LCG pitfalls included small fonts, observation ordering, missing record of social-demographic and key outcome data, plus fields/parameters deemed redundant/inappropriate. Conclusion: Our data demonstrates a responsive, enthusiastic and supportive environment that has potential to facilitate LCG customization, uptake and scale up. The high LCG expectations are important considerations in developing sustainable and acceptable implementation strategies that meet user needs. More work is needed to refine and evaluate the tool’s effectiveness in improving labour monitoring in Uganda.
‘Empowerment’ as a proximal implementation outcome for task shifting with informal cadres: findings from a qualitative study with traditional healers in rural Uganda
(Implementation Science Communications, 2025) Misha Hooda; Madison Stead; Gabriel Nuwagaba; Sylvia Natukunda; Constance Birungi; William Bugeza; Maureen Tushabe; Srija Gogineni; Denis Nansera; Winnie Muyindike; Juliet Mwanga‑Amumpaire; Radhika Sundararajan
Background: Task shifting and task sharing (TSS) are widely used implementation strategies to expand HIV service delivery in low-resource settings. Informal lay health workers, such as traditional healers (THs), have been proposed as critical partners in bridging service delivery gaps. However, the mechanisms that support their successful integration into formal health systems remain underexplored. This qualitative sub-study aimed characterizes a novel proximal implementation outcome – empowerment – based on lived experiences of THs participating in a TSS intervention in rural Uganda. Methods: Between July and August 2023, we conducted 22 in-depth interviews with THs in rural Uganda who completed a three-day training to become lay HIV supporters. The curriculum included HIV transmission, ART adherence, stigma reduction, and HIV self-testing. Interviews were conducted in the local language, transcribed, translated into English, and analyzed using a thematic approach. Our analysis was guided by Lee and Koh’s empowerment framework, which links role transformation to domains of empowerment. Results: THs reported experiencing empowerment across four domains: meaningfulness, competence, self-determination, and impact. Participants described strong alignment between their traditional caregiving roles and new responsibilities in HIV support. They reported increased HIV-related knowledge, confidence in client care, autonomy in decision-making, and a sense of contributing meaningfully to improved health outcomes. Notably, we identified a fifth domain – external validation – defined as recognition and legitimacy conferred by representatives of the bio medical health system. This domain was central to participants’ perceived integration, motivation, and potential sustainability of their involvement in these types of programs. Conclusions: We propose empowerment as a novel proximal implementation outcome that reflects the internal and external transformations necessary for successful implementation with informal providers. Our findings support expanding Lee and Koh’s empowerment framework to include external validation, particularly for cadres operating outside the formal system. Positioning empowerment as a proximal outcome offers a valuable lens for evaluating early success of broad implementation strategies that involve role transformation, such as training trainers, or engaging community champions.
Diagnostic accuracy of the TrueNat™ MTB plus assay for detecting pulmonary tuberculosis in adults
(PLoS One, 2025) Sarapia P. Mallya; Peter M. Mbelele; Riziki M. Kisonga; Daphine D. Mtunga; Haroun H. Banzi; Stephen S. Mpiima; Muzafaru Twinomujuni; Joel Bazira; Kennedy Kassaza
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains a global threat, affecting 10.8 million people and causes 1.3 million deaths annually. Over 2.5 million cases go undiagnosed partly due to current diagnostic limitations. In particular, smear microscopy is less sensitive, culture is slow and prone to contamination, and the rapid Xpert® MTB/RIF Ultra (Ultra) needs advanced infrastructure. This study assessed the diagnostic accuracy of TrueNat™ MTB Plus assay (TrueNat), a portable, WHO-endorsed point-of-care tool, compared to Ultra, smear microscopy, and Löwenstein–Jensen (LJ) culture. This cross-sectional study enrolled 260 consenting adult participants (≥18 years) with presumptive TB in northern Tanzania. Participants’ sputum samples were tested for M. tuberculosis using smear microscopy, LJ culture, Ultra and TrueNat. TrueNat performance was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and area under the curve (AUC) against the standard-of-care and a composite reference standard. Age and body-mass-index were summarised using median and interquatile range (IQR). Categorical variables were reported as proportions. Multivariate logistic regression identified TB predictors (p<0.05). Data analysis and visualization were conducted using R. Among 260 participants, 165 (63.5%) were male, with a median age of 46.0 years (IQR: 35.5–57.3); 15 (5.8%) were HIVpositive, and 52 (20%) had undernutrition. TB was detected in 109 (41.9%) participants by at least one test. TrueNat showed sensitivity/specificity of 34.4%/94.7% vs. smear microscopy, 98.9%/95.3% vs. culture, and 86.2%/95.2% vs. Ultra. The AUC values were 0.75, 0.92, 0.96, and 0.91 compared to smear microscopy, LJ culture, Ultra, and a composite reference method, respectively. Participants reporting weight loss were 2.84 times more likely (95% CI: 1.68–4.84, p<0.001) to test positive for TB by TrueNat. The TrueNat compared favorably to both Ultra and culture in terms of diagnostic accuracy, offering the added benefits of faster results and greater suitability for resource-limited settings. These findings suggest that TrueNat is a promising test for rapid TB detection in low-resource settings, warranting further studies to evaluate its implementation and impact on patient management.
Breaking the silence on suicide among pre adolescent children
(Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, 2025) Moses Muwanguzi; Moses Kule; Henon Ataryeba; Godfrey Zari Rukundo; Sheila Harms; Mark Mohan Kaggwa
Globally, the rising burden of suicide among pre-adolescent children is a pressing clinical problem for mental health practitioners. Over 90% of the world’s youth live in low- and middle-income countries, where suicide is the second-leading cause of death among children and youth. Literature about completed suicide in Ugandan children below 10 years of age is limited, although there is a growing body of research predominantly from high-income countries. We present the only available literature in Uganda about pre-adolescent suicide as reported in press media reports. We utilized the multilevel risk framework to discuss the multi-sociocultural perspective regarding child rearing, the role of childhood trauma, the evolving digital environment, and legal and policy frameworks. We discussed challenges to the practice of Child and Adolescent psychiatry in Uganda, where childhood mental health disorders continue to receive limited attention in clinical practice. We recommend future research efforts to develop a robust methodology to better understand pre-adolescent suicide. Implementation of actionable interventions like school-based suicide screening, community gatekeeper trainings, and child helplines are key. Intersectoral collaborations among diverse stakeholders are essential for co-creating actionable and evidence-based preventive interventions that place the community at the centre
Adherence to severe malaria treatment guidelines in Northern Uganda: a mixed-methods study
(Malaria Journal, 2025) Zainab Akello; Joseph Oloro; Marie Francoise Mukanyangezi; Domina Asingizwe
Background Adherence to severe malaria treatment guidelines is crucial for effective case management and reducing malaria-related morbidity and mortality. However, non-compliance among healthcare workers remains a challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study assessed the level of adherence to severe malaria treatment guidelines among healthcare workers in public hospitals in the Acholi sub-region of Northern Uganda and explored factors influencing this adherence. Methods A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitatively, 384 patient records from Anaka General Hospital, Kitgum General Hospital, and Gulu Regional Referral Hospital were reviewed using a checklist. Qualitative data were collected via key informant interviews (KIIs) among nine purposely selected Healthcare Workers. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize adherence levels, and a modified Poisson regression analysis was conducted to identify associated factors. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Thematic analysis using NVivo software was done for the qualitative part. Results The level of adherence to severe malaria treatment guidelines was 33.07%. Non-adherence was observed for recommended treatment with intravenous (IV) drugs followed by oral medications for severe malaria (38.3%) and treatment of only malaria confirmed (25%). Medical doctors were more likely to adhere to malaria treatment guidelines [aIRR1.7, p=0.035] than other professionals. The qualitative findings categorized the facilitators of adherence into four themes including healthcare workers’ knowledge and training support, institutional and policy support, guidelines accessibility and ease use, healthcare workers’ positive attitudes and motivation. Barriers to adherence included knowledge and awareness gaps, resource availability constraints, as well as socio-cultural and patient factors. Conclusion Adherence to severe malaria treatment guidelines in Uganda is suboptimal, with significant gaps in prescribing practices. Institutionalization of routine refresher training, mentorship and support supervision for healthcare workers are critical to achieving Uganda’s 2025 malaria reduction targets
Adaptation and Validation of Brief Tablet-Based Cognitive Assessment Tool in Uganda
(Alzheimer's & Dementia, 2025) Roslyn Valdespino; Gabrielle Hromas; Chen-Pin Wang; Robert Paul; Noeline Nakasujja; Zahra Reynolds; Flavia Atwine; Edna Tindimwebwa; Meredith Greene; Eliza Passell; Christine S Ritchie; Susanne S Hoeppner; Alexander C Tsai; Janet Seeley; Amy Werry; Sudha Seshadri; Samson Okello; Stephen Asiimwe; Deanna Saylor; Katherine L. Possin; Elena Tsoy; Mark J Siedner; Jeremy A. Tanner
Background: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces accelerated growth of older adults, older people living with HIV (PLWH), and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). However, there is a shortage of human resources and contextually relevant diagnostic tools to assess cognitive impairment (CI) in the region. The tablet-based Cognitive Assessment Tool (TabCAT) is a brief digital battery with automated scoring which can be administered by non-specialists across diverse cultures, languages, and education levels. We assessed its performance in the Uganda Aging Cohort Study (UACS), a prospective cohort study of older PLWH and age- and sex-similar HIV-uninfected adults in Uganda. Method: TabCAT tests were translated and culturally adapted through expert review and focus groups. We compared TabCAT scores against performance on a reference standard cognitive testing battery previously validated and employed in Uganda. Z-scores on all tests were derived using a regression-based normative approach to adjust for age, sex, and education. CI was defined using Jak/Bondi criteria. TabCAT test performances were examined for floor and ceiling effects, with concurrent and divergent validity determined via Spearman rank correlations. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were fit to assess TabCAT composite score discriminative ability for CI in the sample and by HIV serostatus. Result: TabCAT measures were regarded to have acceptable face and content validity by local experts and focus groups. Participants (n=563, mean age 60±6.5, 50% female, 51% < primary school, 49% PLWH) completed the reference-standard and TabCAT battery. For TabCAT tests, there were no notable floor or ceiling effects. Correlations between TabCAT and reference-standard tests were strongest in overlapping cognitive domains (memory, executive function) and weakest in unrelated motor domains (Figure 1). The TabCAT composite score identified CI with good to excellent performance (c-statistic 0.79; 95% CI 0.74-0.83), with similar performance in PLWH (Figure 2). Conclusion: TabCAT tests demonstrate content, concurrent, and criterion validity for identifying CI in a SSA population and in PLWH. Despite variability in concurrent validity on some tests, TabCAT is a promising brief assessment tool to identify CI with generalizability across diverse cultures, languages, education levels, and HIV serostatus. Future studies will examine TabCAT validity for assessing and diagnosing AD and related dementias in Uganda and other resource-limited settings.
Advancing schistosomiasis monitoring through optimised environmental DNA detection
(Food and Waterborne Parasitology, 2025-12-20) Cecilia Wangari Wambui; Mila Viaene; Hannah Njiriku Mwangi; Benjamin Andre; David Were Oguttu; Casim Umba Tolo; Bart Hellemans; Tine Huyse; Hugo F. Gante
Schistosomiasis, caused by parasites of the genus Schistosoma, remains a major public health burden in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly where access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene is limited. Effective control requires large-scale surveillance, but traditional methods such as malacological surveys, and stool or urine microscopy often lack sensitivity and scalability. This study evaluated environmental DNA-based detection of Schistosoma mansoni in water samples from Lake Albert and Lake Victoria, Uganda. Three filtration techniques (open membrane, Waterra eDNA capsule, and Sylphium eDNA Dual filter capsule), were compared for eDNA yield and detection sensitivity. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) targeting the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) mitochondrial gene was used to quantify S. mansoni eDNA, following in silico and in vitro primer optimisation. Conventional malacological surveys were conducted in parallel for validation. Statistical analyses further examined associations between eDNA yield, detectability, and environmental factors. The qPCR assay had a practical limit of detection (LOD) of 100 DNA copies per reaction and a theoretical LOD/limit of quantification of 83 copies. Schistosoma mansoni eDNA was detected in 26 % (15/58) of samples from Lake Albert and 24 % (27/113) from Lake Victoria. Waterra filters yielded the most eDNA, and Sylphium purification produced significantly greater yields than column-based extraction kits. Both filter type and eDNA yield significantly influenced S. mansoni detection: Waterra and Sylphium-single filters had the highest amplification probabilities (~40 %), while open membrane filters performed poorly (~3 %). eDNA yield was a strong predictor of detection, with the odds of positivity increasing by ~0.8 % per additional nanogram of eDNA. Among positive samples, Waterra filters produced the lowest mean Ct values, indicating greater recovery of amplifiable parasite DNA. Conversely, open membrane filters were the most affect by field contamination. Our findings highlight eDNA as a sensitive and scalable tool for surveillance of schistosomiasis and other water-borne parasitic diseases. While higher-capacity filters and two-phase extraction methods maximised eDNA yield, lower-yield methods still enabled detection in high-transmission settings. A comparative analysis of sampling effort, costs and contamination and infection risks is presented. Overall, our results support the adaptability of eDNA approaches across resource contexts and underscore the need for protocol standardisation, ecological validation, and field-deployable diagnostics such as LAMP.
Occurrence of toxic metals in river Rwizi surface water and efficacy of wastewater stabilization ponds (WSPs) in Mbarara City, Uganda
(Discover Environment, 2025) Grace Birungi; Denis Byamugisha; Robinah Asiimwe; Irene Aheisibwe; Deusdedit Tusubira; Paul E. Alele; Muhamad Ntale; James Bolender
Toxic metal concentrations and physical chemical properties of River Rwizi surface water were determined. Aluminium, antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, iron, potassium, lead, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silver, thallium, thorium, uranium, vanadium, and zinc, were quantified using Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Physical chemical parameters were measured in-situ using a HANA meter. Heavy metal pollution index (HMPI), Contamination Degree (CD) and Hazard index (HI) were determined by comparing measured concentrations and reference values. Efficacy of wastewater treatment was evaluated from metal concentrations at the inlet and outlet of the Wastewater Stabilization Ponds (WSP). Selenium (up to 10.35 µg/L), iron (up to 601.74 µg/L) and aluminium (up to 435.44 µg/L), were higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations of 10 µg/L, 300 µg/L and 100 µg/L respectively. The physical–chemical parameters met the drinking water standard, except for turbidity (up to 89.1 NTU) which was higher than the WHO recommendation of <5 NTU. HMPI was 19.5–140.7 and CD was−12.0–18.5 showing moderate to very high pollution. The HI was 0.084–0.804 for children and 0.036–0.379 for adults. For chronic exposure, HI was 0.008–0.069 for children and 0.016–0.163 for adults. The risk to human health exceeded the negligible threshold of HI≤0.1 for adults. The efficiency of removal of metals by WSPs was low (5.87–57.73%), therefore, better wastewater management methods are desirable for protection of human health.
Prevalence and associated factors of sexually transmitted infections among adolescent pregnant women at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda
(Therapeutic Advances in Reproductive Health, 2025) Henry Ochola; Onesmus Byamukama; Charles Tushabomwe-Kazooba; Annah Amwikirize; Anorld Kamugisha; Moses Ntaro; Joseph Ngonzi
Background: Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa shoulder a disproportionate burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), yet data for pregnant teenagers in these settings are sparse. Objectives: The study estimated the prevalence of STI seropositivity and its associated factors, among pregnant adolescents at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), Uganda. Design: Hospital-based cross-sectional study. Methods: Consecutive pregnant adolescents (10–19years) attending the MRRH antenatal clinic or maternity ward between 1 July and 30 September 2024 were enrolled. A structured questionnaire captured socio-demographic, sexual-behavioural, obstetric, clinical and nutritional variables. Blood samples were tested for HIV (Determine™/STAT-PAK™), syphilis (Treponema pallidum haemagglutination assay) and Hepatitis B (HBsAg rapid test). The composite STI outcome was seropositivity for any infection: HIV, syphilis or HBsAg. Independent associations were examined with Firth-penalised logistic regression; adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) are reported. Results: Among 249 participants (median age 18years, interquartile range 18–19), the overall prevalence of STI seropositivity was 12.1% (95% CI: 8.3–16.8). Prevalence by each STI was HIV 8.8%, syphilis 4.0% and HBV 0.4%. Multigravidae had higher odds of infection than primigravidae (aOR: 2.81, 95% CI: 1.01–7.84). Having ever used a non-barrier modern contraception tripled the odds of STI (aOR 3.04, 95% CI: 1.10–8.45), whereas marriage or cohabitation reduced risk by 63% (aOR 0.37, 95% CI: 0.14–0.96). Conclusion: Nearly one in eight pregnant adolescents at MRRH were infected with HIV, syphilis or HBV, with these STIs more likely to be among multigravidae and former users of non-barrier contraception and less likely among married/cohabiting pregnant adolescents. These findings support integrating repeat HIV–syphilis testing, dual-method contraceptive counselling and targeted interventions for multigravidae into youth-friendly antenatal services to advance STI-elimination goals.
Vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors among HIV patients at Mbarara City Health Centre IV, south-western Uganda
(African Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2025) Jazira Tumusiime; Charles N. Bagenda; Daniel Nzaramba; Bashir Ruzige; Elastus Ssemwang; Frank Ssedyabane; Winnie R. Muyindike; Ritah Kiconco; Simon P. Rugera
Background: HIV is a global health challenge. Despite increased life expectancy because of antiretroviral therapy, vitamin D deficiency (VDD) remains widespread among HIV-positive individuals. Factors such as poor nutrition, limited sunlight exposure, and certain medications, contribute to high VDD rates. Despite this, the magnitude of this problem is not well documented in our setting. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with VDD among HIV patients in south-western Uganda. Methods: This cross-sectional study at Mbarara City Health Centre IV involved 218 randomly selected HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, medical records review, and blood samples for biochemical analysis. VDD was defined as serum levels < 25 ng/mL. Levels of ˃ 5 mg/L for C-Reactive Protein (CRP) were considered elevated. Body mass index (BMI) was categorised as < 25 kg/m2 normal, 25–29.9 kg/m2 overweight, and ≥ 30 kg/m2 for obese. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and logistic regression to assess factors associated with VDD. Results: The median age of the participants was 38 years (interquartile range 30–45) with most being female (163, 74.8%). Of the 218 study participants, 66 had Vitamin D levels < 25 ng/mL, giving a prevalence of VDD of 30.3% (95% CI: 24.51% – 36.73%). Being overweight, obese, and having a CRP level of > 5 mg/L, were significantly associated with VDD. Conclusion: The study found a 30.3% prevalence of VDD among HIV-positive individuals at Mbarara City Health Centre IV. Key associated factors included higher BMI and elevated CRP levels. What this study adds: This study highlights the significant burden of VDD among HIV positive individuals in a Ugandan setting, with a prevalence of 30.3%. It identifies obesity and elevated CRP levels as key risk factors, emphasizing the need for integrated nutritional and inflammatory monitoring in HIV care.
Dynamic transmission linemodeling and real-time fault analysis using ABCD parameters enhanced by equivalent π-model for accurate efficiency and voltage stability assessment
(Engineering Research Express, 2025-12-19) Robert Mugabe; Michael Robson Atim; Johnes Obungoloch; Jimmy NabendeWanzala
Efficient and reliable electricity transmission is a fundamental requirement for modern power systems, particularly for long-distance networks where transmission losses and voltage regulation Challenges significantly impact overall system performance. This study proposes an enhanced ABCD parameter-based transmission line model, integrating an equivalent π-model, to improve the accuracy of power loss calculations, voltage regulation, and transmission efficiency. Unlike traditional models, this approach accurately captures the effects of temperature variations, aging infrastructure, and real-time load conditions, ensuring more precise power system analysis. Extensive simulations in MATLAB/Simulink validate the model’s effectiveness, demonstrating an efficiency improvement of up to 88.8% for long transmission lines, ensuring compliance with IEEE standards. Furthermore, the model features an automated alert system that warns users if efficiency drops below95%, making it a practical tool for grid operation and planning. These findings underscore the model’s potential for optimizing transmission line design, particularly in rural electrification projects and renewable energy integration, where efficient power delivery is crucial.
Comparative Phytochemical Profiles of Medicinal Plants Used for Wound Treatment: Insights From Wild and Hydroponically Cultivated Species in Lugazi Diocese, Uganda
(Chemistry & Biodiversity, 2026) Ivan Kahwa; Christina Seel; Hilda Ikiriza; Maria Kulosa; Susan Billig; Claudia Wiesner; Anke Weisheit; Olivia Harriet Makumbi; André Gerth; Leonard Kaysser
Medicinal plants such as Centella asiatica, Conyza sumatrensis, and Justicia betonica are widely used in Uganda for traditional wound healing. However, the impact of cultivation conditions on their therapeutic potential remains poorly understood. This study compared the phytochemical profiles and bioactivities of hydroponically cultivated and wild-collected material of these species from Lugazi Diocese, Uganda. Extracts were prepared using ethanol, methanol, and water, and analyzed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV), headspace gas chromatography– mass spectrometry (HS-GC–MS), and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). TLC and HPLC-UV indicated terpenoids, flavonoids, and steroids, while HS-GC–MS revealed predominantly monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. LC– MS/MS annotated flavonoids, including quercetin-3-O-glucuronoside, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, and kaempferol, as well as triterpenoids such as asiatic acid and katononic acid. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae using the agar well diffusion method. Anti-inflammatory effects were assessed by IL-6 and IL-8 secretion, and cytotoxicity by MTT assay. Ethanol and methanol extracts exhibited moderate antibacterial activity, while aqueous extracts of wild C. asiatica and hydroponic C. sumatrensis significantly reduced IL-6 secretion. No cytotoxic effects were detected. These findings suggest hydroponic cultivation preserves essential phytochemicals and bioactivities, supporting sustainable production of medicinal plants for therapeutic applications.
20th Annual Research Dissemination Conference (ARDC) 2025
(MUST, 2025) Mbarara University of Science and Technology
9th PHD Symposium
(MUST, 2024) Mbarara University of Science and Technology
10th PHD Symposium
(MUST, 2025) Mbarara University of Science and Technology
Strengthening Professional Skills in Engineering Internships: A University-Industry Approach from Uganda with Global Relevance
(In 2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, 2025) Irene Magara; Vicent Rutagangibwa; Thomas E. Marlin
This empirical research paper is a full paper that explores the effectiveness of a pre-internship training program in developing essential professional skills, including communication, technical report writing, and problem-solving, for engineering students at Mbarara University of Science and Technology located in the western region of Uganda in Africa. A one-week training program focusing on communication, technical report writing, and problem-solving was implemented with an intervention group, while a control group did not receive the training. Quantitative analysis involved Shapiro-Wilk and Levene’s tests for normality and homogeneity of variance respectively, followed by paired and independent t-tests to evaluate the impact of the intervention on students' professional skills. The results demonstrated significant improvements in communication and report writing skills, while problem-solving skills showed modest gains. Qualitative feedback highlighted the importance of further refining the training content, extending industrial internship durations, and encouraging companies to increase the number of internship placements for students to ensure greater exposure to real-world professional environments. This study provides valuable insights for enhancing engineering education, particularly in resource-limited contexts, and offers actionable recommendations for improving professional skill development among engineering students.
HRP2 and PLDH Performance Comparison as Rapid Diagnostic Tools for Symptomatic Malaria Patients at Rugazi HC IV in Rubirizi District
(International Internal Medicine Journal, 2025) Nakavuma Anitah; Musau Immanuel Afrika; Lumu Hassan; Atimaaku Palma Rose; Ankunda Evalyne; Agaba Bosco; Okongo Benson; Kalyetsi Rogers; Ssendyabane Frank; Muwanguzi Enock; Charles Nkubi Bagenda; Simon Peter Rugera
Background: Rapid and precise laboratory diagnosis is essential for effectively diagnosing and managing malaria patients. Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) play a critical role in malaria diagnosis in resource-constrained settings with limited access to labs and trained staff. The efficiency of two mRDTs (HRP2 and pLDH) was compared against microscopy, the gold standard for malaria diagnosis, in this study. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 308 participants were tested for malaria parasites using twomRDTs and blood smear microscopy as the gold standard. STATA software version 17 was used for data analysis. Results: Out of the 308 participants, 82 tested positive for HRP2 mRDT (26.62% (95% CI: 21.97-31.86) positivity rate, 73.38% (95% CI: 68.14-78.83) negativity rate), and 99 tested positive for pLDH mRDT (32.14% (95% CI: 27.14-37.59) positivity rate, 67.86% (95% CI: 62.41-72.86) negativity rate). Using microscopy as the gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were determined. For HRP2 mRDT, sensitivity was 77.78% (95%CI: 73.13-82.42), specificity 97.61% (95%CI: 95.90 - 99.31), PPV 93.90% (95%CI: 91.23 – 96.56), and NPV 90.27% (95%CI: 86.96-93.58). For pLDH mRDT, the sensitivity was 94.95% (95% CI: 92.50-97.40), specificity was 97.61% (95% CI: 95.90-99.31), PPV was 94.95% (95% CI: 92.50 – 97.40), and NPV was 97.61% (95% CI: 95.90 - 99.31). The dominant malaria species was Plasmodium falciparum (74.7%), followed by Plasmodium vivax (12.1%) and Plasmodium ovale (1%). Mixed infections of plasmodium falciparum and plasmodium vivax (7.1%) and plasmodium falciparum and plasmodium ovale (5.1%) were also observed. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the positivity rate, negativity rate, specificity or PPV in both mRDTs. However, a significant difference in the NPV and sensitivity of HRP2 and pLDH mRDTs was observed where HRP2’s sensitivity was below the WHO recommendation of ≥95% in this study population; thus, there is a need to improve the sensitivity of this mRDT kit. In our study, most malaria infections were caused by Plasmodium falciparum, followed by P. vivax and P. ovale. We therefore recommend the use of pLDH mRDTs over HRP2 mRDTs based on the results of our study.
Total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is a significant predictor of metabolic syndrome among people on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy: A cross-sectional study in southwestern Uganda
(Journal of International Medical Research, 2025) Charles Nkubi Bagenda; Carol Nantongo; Elastus Ssemwanga; Michael Junior Mugisa; Samuel Ojuko; Fred Sempijja; Daniel Nzaramba; Ritah Kiconco; Frank Ssedyabane; Benson Musinguzi; Winnie Akiteng; Deusdedit Tusubira; Lawrence Obado Osuwat; Simon Peter Rugera
Objective: The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is a predictor of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease—a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. This study investigated the association between total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and metabolic syndrome among people living with human immunodeficiency virus on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy in southwestern Uganda. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of data obtained from a cross-sectional study of 377 adults who had been on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy for at least 1 year at Ruhoko Health Centre IV, southwestern Uganda. Results: The median total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio was significantly higher in individuals with metabolic syndrome (3.92) than in those without (2.96, p < 0.001). A statistically significant association was observed between high total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and metabolic syndrome (adjusted odds ratios: 2.06, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–3.91, p ¼ 0.028). The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio at an optimal cutoff of 3.30 had a significant ability (area under the curve ¼ 0.696, 95% confidence interval: 0.642–0.750) to differentiate participants with metabolic syndrome from those without at a sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 60%. Conclusion: The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is a significant predictor of metabolic syndrome and serves as a potential blood-based biomarker.
Prevalence and associated factors of human leishmaniasis in Amudat district, Uganda
(The Journal of Protozoology Research, 2024) Ojuko Samuel; Byarugaba Frederick; Ssedyabane Frank; Kalyetsi Rogers
Leishmaniasis is endemic in Uganda and most commonly found in the remote areas of the Karamoja sub-region. Despite efforts put in by the government and other non-governmental organizations in the fight against human leishmaniasis, the disease remains one of the major health challenges in the Karamoja sub-region, where Amudat district is inclusive, with no leishmaniasis burden and associated factors clearly understood. Thus, in this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of leishmaniasis and its associated factors among patients receiving healthcare services in Amudat district healthcare facilities. STATA software version 14 was used for descriptive data analysis and Ashur’s scale to assess participants’ knowledge. A total of 200 study participants were purposively sampled and recruited from 10 health facilities in Amudat district. Of the 200 capillary blood samples collected from the participants and screened for leishmaniasis, 18 tested positive by serology (rK39), and only 11 were confirmed positive by bone marrow microscopy, giving a leishmaniasis prevalence of 5.5% (11/200), with males being the most affected at 4.0% (8/200) and females at 1.5% (3/200). The low level of disease awareness and livestock grazing in sandfly-infested areas are associated with the widespread spread of leishmaniasis. Information regarding community knowledge levels on transmission and prevention is crucial for disease control, as human leishmaniasis is a public health concern, particularly in Amudat district.