Student's Journal of Health Research Africa
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From lectures to flipped classroom: A quasi-experimental crossover study on students’ performance and perceptions in learning histology.
Full text linkBackground:
Anatomy education has traditionally relied on didactic lectures, but innovative approaches such as the flipped classroom are increasingly being explored to promote active learning, engagement, and deeper understanding.
Objective:
To evaluate the effectiveness of the flipped classroom compared to traditional lectures in teaching histology to first-year MBBS students.
Methods:
A quasi-experimental crossover study was conducted among 150 first-year MBBS students. Two histology topics (stomach and small intestine) were taught using the flipped classroom and didactic lecture methods. Pre-test, mid-test, and post-test scores were recorded using multiple-choice questionnaires. Group A initially underwent flipped classroom teaching, and Group B didactic lectures for Topic 1, followed by crossover for Topic 2. Statistical analysis was performed using paired and independent t-tests.
Results:
The participants comprised 150 first-year MBBS students (52% female; mean age 19.4 ± 0.8 years). Both teaching methods significantly improved student performance. Didactic lectures showed greater short-term gains (mean post-test = 9.48 ± 1.33 vs. 8.92 ± 1.73; p < 0.05). The flipped classroom group demonstrated a steady incremental improvement from pre-test (6.98 ± 1.94) to mid-test (7.25 ± 2.17) and post-test (8.92 ± 1.73), confirming progressive learning and retention (p < 0.001).
Conclusion:
Didactic lectures remain effective for achieving rapid short-term learning gains, whereas the flipped classroom fosters gradual improvement, learner autonomy, and deeper engagement.
Recommendations:
A blended, context-sensitive approach integrating both lectures and flipped classroom strategies is recommended to optimize learning outcomes in anatomy education. Future studies should assess long-term knowledge retention, adaptability, and the role of technology-enabled blended models across diverse medical curricula
"Low-pressure vs. Standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis".
Full text linkBackground: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the preferred treatment for symptomatic gallstones. Standard pneumoperitoneum pressure (12–15 mmHg) ensures adequate visualization but may increase postoperative pain and cardiopulmonary stress. Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum (LPP; 7–10 mmHg) has been proposed to reduce these complications, though its safety and efficacy remain debated.
Aim:
To compare low- and standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum regarding postoperative pain, recovery, complications, and operative time in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Methods:
Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched through July 2025 for randomized controlled trials comparing LPP with standard pressure. Two reviewers independently extracted data. A random-effects model was applied, with heterogeneity assessed using the I² statistic. Publication bias was evaluated by Egger’s test and funnel plots.
Results:
Fifteen RCTs involving 2,304 patients were included. LPP significantly reduced postoperative pain at 6 hours (MD = –1.24; 95% CI = –1.76 to –0.71; I² = 44%) and 24 hours (MD = –0.98; 95% CI = –1.46 to –0.50; I² = 68%). Conversion rates (OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 0.67–1.58; I² = 0%) and operative times (MD = +2.1 min; 95% CI = –0.9 to +5.1; I² = 28%) were comparable. Hospital stay was slightly shorter with LPP (MD = –0.4 days; 95% CI = –0.7 to –0.1; I² = 59%). Minor publication bias was detected for 24-hour pain (p = 0.04).
Conclusion:
Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum is a safe and effective alternative to the standard technique, offering reduced postoperative pain and faster recovery without increased surgical risk.
Recommendations:
Further multicenter RCTs should explore long-term outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and patient satisfaction to support routine clinical use
PREVALENCE, ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE, AND RISK FACTORS OF BACTERIAL PATHOGENS IN “ROLEX FOOD” AT MAKERERE UNIVERSITY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Full text linkBackground
This was a baseline study aimed at determining bacterial load in Rolex food sold in selected points of Kikumi kikumi in MUK, establishing the antibiograms of E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella spp, screening for mecA and Tet M genes in the isolates that code for resistance to penicillin and tetracycline, respectively.
Methods and tools
A total of 50 samples were collected, of which 25 of them had raw salads while the remaining had their salads cooked in omelettes. Isolation and identification were done, and antibacterial susceptibility was done using a disc diffusion test.
Results
The results showed that 11.50% of 50 samples collected were positive with common bacterial contaminants, and in these positive samples, E. coli and CNS were the most prevalent with 30.43% and 26.09%, respectively followed by Klebsiella spp and Pseudomonas Spp with a same prevalence of 15.22%, Bacillus spp 6.52%, Streptococcus Spp 4.35% and then Staphylococcus aureus with the lowest prevalence of 2.17%, while Salmonella Spp were not found completely in the samples. The susceptibility tests on E. coli showed that CXC had the highest resistance of 93.75%, followed by SXT and GM with resistance of 43.73% and 37.50%, respectively.
Conclusion
This study revealed that Rolex food, particularly when containing raw salads, harbors a significant bacterial load, with E. coli and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) being the most prevalent contaminants. E. coli isolates exhibited high resistance to cefotaxime (93.75%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (43.73%), and gentamicin (37.50%), raising concerns about potential treatment challenges.
Recommendations
People should buy cooked Rolex food as opposed to raw one because of its low prevalence of bacterial contaminants. The Rolex makers should clean their clothes, acquire and put on aprons all the time while operating, and above all, wash their hands with clean water every time they serve customers
Recycling hospital glass waste by crushing and incorporating into construction materials at Baptist hospital Mutengene.
Full text linkIntroduction
Hospital waste is any material, substance, or by-product that is discarded or no longer useful, which is generated during the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of human beings or animals, as well as in research activities about medical care.
Project Design
The project design included a needs assessment, a feasibility study, the establishment of the collection system, and the crushing unit. Also, we have quality control, partnerships for the initiative, and the handling and transportation of materials. Monitoring and evaluation of the processes, compliance with regulations as well as a sustainability plan are indispensable in the project design. Another key aspect of this design and implementation strategy will be documentation and reporting. Intentionally engaging the community of health care workers who are the primary stakeholders, is central to the success of the project.
Project results
One of the noteworthy outcomes of the project was the innovative use of recycled glass aggregate in the creation of pavement tiles. These tiles, crafted from recycled materials, represent a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative for hospital walkways. By repurposing glass waste into functional and aesthetically pleasing tiles, the hospital contributes to the beautification and enhancement of its infrastructure while simultaneously addressing waste management challenges. Throughout the project implementation phase, necessary records were maintained to track the quantity of glass waste processed and recycled. These records serve as a valuable resource for monitoring progress, evaluating the effectiveness of the recycling efforts, and informing future decision-making processes.
Conclusion
Recycling glass waste for the production of aggregate presents a many-sided solution to the challenges of waste management and sustainable construction.
Recommendations
The government and stakeholders should draft environmentally friendly policies concerning the recycling of non-biodegradable waste materials to ensure environmental safety
INDIVIDUAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH UTILIZATION OF HIV SELF-TESTING SERVICES AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMEN BETWEEN 15-24 YEARS IN IGANGA DISTRICT-UGANDA: INDIVIDUAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH UTILIZATION OF HIV SELF-TESTING SERVICES
No full textIntroduction: The uptake of HIV testing services is sub-optimal among adolescent girls and young women. HIV self-testing offers opportunities to improve the uptake of HIV testing services among adolescent girls and young women. The study was conducted to determine individual factors associated with the utilization of HIV self-testing services among adolescent girls and young women between 15-24 years in Iganga District.
Methods: The study was a cross-sectional design. Research questionnaires were administered to collect data. A total of 384 adolescent girls and young women between 15-24 years were interviewed. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with HIV self-testing and odds ratio was used as a measure of association.
Results: The response of the study was 100% and 16.7% of the respondents have ever tested for HIV using HIVST services. The study found that 64.1% of the respondents were aged 20-24 years, 48.2% had primary education, 51.6% were never married and 28.6% were housewives. HIV self-testing was significantly associated with secondary education (AOR: 4.267, 95% CI: 1.310-13.898, P=0.016), having ever heard about HIVST (AOR: 3.406, 95% CI: 1.497-7.749, P-0.003), knowing how to use the HIVST (AOR: 3.161, 95% CI: 1.463-6.827, P-0.003), discrimination in the community because of HIV status (AOR: 5.595, 95% CI: 1.595-20.379, P-0.009), ever been diagnosed with STIs (AOR: 0.266, 95% CI: 0.107-0.663, P-0.004) and having two sexual partners (AOR: 4.415, 95% CI: 1.303-14.962, P-0.017).
Conclusion: The study demonstrates levels of utilization of HIV self-testing among adolescent girls and young women in association with a number of factors that include education level, knowledge on HIVST, stigmatization, history of STIs, number of sexual partners, and accessibility of the services. An enhancement of educational and awareness programs on HIV self-testing (HIVST) was recommended.
 
CORRELATION OF AMNIOTIC FLUID INDEX VALUES WITH MATERNAL AND PERINATAL OUTCOMES IN PRETERM PREMATURE RUPTURE OF MEMBRANES.
Full text linkBackground:
Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) is a significant obstetric complication associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) levels and clinical outcomes in patients with PPROM between 26–36 weeks of gestation.
Methods:
A cohort of 100 patients diagnosed with PPROM between 26–36 weeks of gestation were analyzed. Demographic data, gestational age, AFI levels, and clinical outcomes including chorioamnionitis, neonatal sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), and neonatal survival were recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess the associations between AFI levels and these clinical outcomes.
Results:
The study population consisted of 80% patients with gestational ages between 32–36 weeks and 20% between 26–31 weeks. The majority (49%) had an AFI <5. Chorioamnionitis was present in 50%, and neonatal sepsis occurred in 68% of neonates. Neonatal survival was observed in 93% of cases. Gestational age was inversely correlated with AFI (P < 0.001), with lower gestational age associated with AFI <5. No significant association was found between AFI and chorioamnionitis or neonatal sepsis. AFI <5 was significantly associated with an increased risk of RDS (P = 0.003) and neonatal death (P = 0.005), with an odds ratio of 3.78 for RDS in patients with AFI <5. Chorioamnionitis was associated with neonatal sepsis (P = 0.005).
Conclusion:
Low AFI (<5) in patients with PPROM is significantly associated with adverse neonatal outcomes, including respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal death. Gestational age and AFI levels play crucial roles in predicting neonatal survival and complications. Monitoring AFI can help identify high-risk pregnancies requiring closer observation and management.
Recommendations:
Healthcare providers should monitor AFI regularly in PPROM cases, especially with low AFI (<5). Enhanced neonatal surveillance for RDS and other complications is crucial. Early interventions and NICU preparation, particularly for gestational age <32 weeks
Microfinance Credit and Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Wakiso Town Council, Wakiso District
Full text linkBackground
Despite widespread access to microfinance services in Wakiso Town Council (WTC), over 73% of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) report poor financial performance. This study investigated the relationship between microfinance credit and SME financial performance in WTC, Wakiso District, Uganda.
Methods
A cross-sectional design was used to collect primary data from 277 SMEs using structured questionnaires, supplemented with secondary data from WTC financial records. Financial performance was assessed through profitability (ROA), liquidity, and solvency indicators. Pearson correlation and regression analysis were conducted using SPSS v29.
Results
Most SMEs (57.8%) had been operational for less than 5 years, and 61.7% relied on microfinance institutions for funding. Correlation analysis showed a weak negative association between access to microloans and profitability (r = -0.128, p = 0.033), but a positive correlation between effective use of microloans and profitability (r = 0.181, p = 0.003). Satisfaction with loan terms showed a negative correlation with profitability (r = -0.124, p = 0.039). High borrowing frequency was positively associated with improved solvency (r = 0.122, p = 0.043). Regression analysis revealed that microfinance credit variables accounted for 7.7% of the variance in SME financial performance (R² = 0.077, F(8, 268) = 2.783, p = 0.006).
Conclusion
Access to microloans alone does not significantly enhance SME profitability in WTC. Overborrowing and rigid loan conditions may undermine benefits. Effective loan utilization and tailored financial literacy interventions are essential to strengthen SME financial performance.
Recommendations
Stakeholders should revise loan structures to include flexible terms, monitor credit use, and implement financial literacy programs to help SMEs maximize microfinance benefits
Exploring the impact of financial exclusion on student performance and retention: A cross-sectional study at Mangosuthu university of technology (MUT).
Full text linkBackgroundFinancial exclusion remains a critical barrier to student success in South African higher education, where socio-economic inequalities continue to affect access and retention. At Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), many students face financial hardship that limits access to essential academic resources such as textbooks, accommodation, transportation, and food. These constraints can negatively impact academic performance and increase the risk of dropout. This study explores the impact of financial exclusion on student performance and retention at MUT.
Methods
A cross-sectional study using a structured survey was conducted with 220 undergraduate students, selected through stratified random sampling to ensure representation across faculties, years of study, gender, and funding status. The survey measured financial access, self-reported GPA, attendance rates, and retention intentions. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis were used to examine the relationship between financial hardship and academic outcomes.
Results
A total of 198 students responded (90% response rate). Of these, 61% received full financial support via NSFAS, 24% were self-funded, and 15% had partial support. Among financially excluded students (self-funded or partially supported), 68% reported frequent class absenteeism due to unmet basic needs, while 43% were uncertain about completing the academic year. A statistically significant negative correlation (r = –0.51, p < 0.01) was found between financial stress and academic performance, indicating that higher financial hardship is linked to lower academic outcomes.
Conclusion
Financial exclusion significantly affects academic engagement, performance, and retention among MUT students, particularly those lacking consistent financial support.
Recommendation
MUT should enhance its financial aid structures, introduce emergency relief funding, and strengthen coordination with external funders. Implementing early identification systems for financially at-risk students, combined with academic support interventions, could improve both performance and retention rates
OUTCOMES FOLLOWING DYNAMIC SYNDESMOTIC FIXATION IN ANKLE FRACTURES WITH A SYNDESMOTIC INJURY: A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY FROM SOUTH AFRICA.
Full text linkBackground
Ankle fractures are common injuries, with approximately 33% involving syndesmotic disruption in South Africa. While static screw fixation (SSF) has traditionally been the standard treatment, dynamic fixation (DF) using suture-button devices offers an increasingly popular alternative. This study evaluated the clinical outcomes of DF in managing syndesmotic injuries.
Materials and Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 50 patients who sustained ankle fractures with associated syndesmotic injuries and underwent surgical fixation using suture-button devices at a regional hospital in KwaZulu-Natal. Outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score at a one-year follow-up.
Results
The mean age of patients was 36.9 years, and 70% were female. Most injuries were classified as Weber B and SER stage 4. All patients achieved fracture union and maintained syndesmotic reduction, with no malreductions, infections, or hardware failures reported. The mean AOFAS score was 91.7, with 92% of patients scoring above 75. Higher BMI (p = 0.019) and delayed surgery beyond 14 days (p = 0.002) were associated with lower scores. HIV-positive patients had slightly reduced scores, although this was not statistically significant. Smoking and elevated BMI did not increase complication rates. Functional outcomes were comparable between single and double suture-button fixation (p = 0.1).
Conclusion
Dynamic syndesmotic fixation using suture-button devices is a safe and effective method for treating syndesmotic injuries, with excellent short-term functional outcomes and low complication rates. Patient-specific factors, including BMI and surgical timing, significantly influence recovery, highlighting the need for individualized care.
Recommendation
Given the favorable outcomes and reduced complication profile, dynamic fixation should be considered a preferred treatment strategy for syndesmotic injuries, particularly in young, active patients. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm long-term efficacy and guide broader implementation
MUCIN PROFILE OF PROSTATIC LESIONS: A HISTOCHEMICAL APPROACH FOR DIFFERENTIATION IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTER.
Full text linkBackground: Microscopic differentiation of benign and low grade malignant lesions of prostate pose a challenging task for the pathologists. Immunohistochemistry markers can prove costlier in resource poor settings.
Objectives : To assess the utility of mucin stains in evaluating and differentiating benign and malignant lesions of prostate.
Materials and Methods : 100 prostatic biopsies received in the Pathology department of atertiary care hospital over a period of one and half years were included in this study. In additiontoroutineH&E,thesectionswerestainedwithPeriodicacidSchiff (PAS),Alcianblue(AB) andMucicarmine(MC) stains.
Results: Out of 100 prostatic biopsies studied, 90% of benign cases and 53% malignant lesions showed positivity with Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) stain. With Alcian blue, 67% of malignant lesions showed positivity and with Mucicarmine 60% of malignant lesions showed positivity. In contrast only 1% of benign lesions were positive with Alcian blue and Mucicarmine
Conclusions: Neutral mucin was found to be more frequently positive in benign lesions of prostate whereas acidic mucin is expressed only in malignant lesion