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Associations between sociodemographic exposures, growth and development during infancy with development at the age of eight years among children: Analysis of a maternal education trial in rural Uganda
No full textBackground: Links between early life exposures and child development later in life are not sufficiently explored in low- and middle-income countries. We studied associations between sociodemographic variables, growth and development at six to eight months with developmental outcomes at eight years.
Methods: We used data from a maternal education trial which included 511 mother-infant pairs at children's age of six to eight months (baseline). In this follow-up study, data from 361 mother-child pairs were available. Questionnaires were used to collect sociodemographic variables. Growth (anthropometry) was measured by study personnel and converted to z-scores according to the World Health Organization (WHO) growth reference. Child development (cognitive, motor and language) at baseline was assessed using Bayley Scales of Infant and Todler Development, third edition (BSID-III). Development at eight years was measured using two neuropsychological tools: Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children Second Edition (KABC-II) and Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA).
Results: Higher weight-for-age z-scores (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.53, 0.98; P = 0.04), better maternal education (aOR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.78, 0.96; P = 0.03). and better household head education (aOR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.78, 0.96; P = 0.03) at six to eight months of age were associated with lower odds of scoring below average on KABC-II categorical scores at eight years of age. Motor composite scores and maternal parity at six to eight months of age were positively associated with auditory and visual TOVA scores (all P-values <0.05) at eight years. Cognitive composite scores at six to eight months of age were positively associated with visual TOVA scores (P < 0.05). In contrast, weight-for-length z-scores and household head age were negatively associated with both auditory and visual TOVA scores (P < 0.05). Being a female child was associated with lower auditory and visual TOVA scores (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: At six to eight months of age, growth and development, gender, maternal education and parity, and household head age and education were associated with child development at eight years. Interventions emphasising improved growth and development in infancy, as well as parental educational attainment, may improve long-term developmental outcomes
Effect of Effluents Produced from Palm oil Processing Industries on Fish Production around Bugala Island, Kalangala District, Uganda
No full textP. (1-14) ;Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), a tree crop that originated from Central and West Africa is primarily planted in tropical regions, mainly in deep soils and humid climatic areas around lakes and wetlands. This has encouraged the setting up of the oil processing industries near or within such highly fragile ecosystems. The study was set out to investigate the impact of effluent discharge from
palm oil processing industries on water quality and fish yield in Bugala Island, Kalangala District, Uganda. The research aimed to determine the extent of pollution and its consequences on key water quality parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and fish populations. To achieve these objectives, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative analysis of water samples and fish yields with qualitative data from interviews and surveys. Water quality indicators, including turbidity, pH, temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen (DO), were measured across control and experimental sites, alongside the concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and mercury. The study utilized one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests to assess the statistical significance of differences between sites. The results indicated significant variations in turbidity, pH, salinity, and DO levels, particularly in areas affected by effluent discharge, while temperature and heavy metal concentrations did not show statistically significant differences. Fish yield analysis revealed significant disparities in the quantity, average weight, and length of fish species, with Oreochromis niloticus demonstrating the highest mean weight and length in less polluted areas. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter environmental regulations and the implementation of advanced effluent treatment technologies. Continuous environmental monitoring is also recommended to mitigate the adverse effects of industrial pollution on aquatic ecosystems and to safeguard the livelihoods of communities dependent on these resources
Assessment of moisture related defects in masonry walls
No full textxv, 112 p. : col.Moisture intrusion into walls continues to be one of the top challenges in the building construction industry in Uganda. The study assessed and investigated moisture related defects in masonry walls, materials and construction methods to mitigate moisture rise and related defects in masonry.
This study made an assessment on moisture related defects in masonry walls, together with; carrying out a baseline survey on the building industry practice to find the cement to sand mix commonly used, and to assess prevalence of capillary water rise in buildings, determining the height of water rise by capillarity in masonry walls from damp proof course level, and finding out the materials and construction methods that can be used to mitigate moisture rise and related defects in masonry walls, as the specific objectives.
Experimental masonry wall models measuring; 1.6m wide x 1.9m height x 230mm thick for the study. The models were built of ordinary clay bricks, well plastered and built with cement sand mortar / plaster of mix ratios; 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, & 1:4. Selected vertical points on the wall surface were cored and tested for moisture content. It was found that the masonry walls were susceptible to moisture rise, and it was also observed that; the stronger the mortar mix, the less the capillary rise of moisture in the wall.
The height of water / dampness is highest at the bottom, just above the damp proof course levels, and moisture rise ranged between 0 – 0.6m above dpc levels. The study further investigated the efficiency of various water proofing materials that can be applied on the external walls to minimise capillary rise. The percentage reduction in moisture content was as follows; overlapping dpc 95, stone slates 94.1, glazed tiles 82.3, cement sand mortar in plaster with 4% clay giving 66.8, bituminous paint 44, facing bricks 43.7, and finally weep holes in plaster 30.5.
All the three objectives were observed to be realistic, and true. And the study therefore concluded that water proofing treatment of masonry walls should be done to heights of not less than 0.70m above DPC level to improve durability of masonry walls against related effects. This provides knowledge, and innovation to the construction industry. And this study also recommends; the use of overlapping of damp proof course, together with slates, as some of the best water proofing materials. There is also need for conducting more research on the areas of; variation of strength of building units with moisture content, and failure mechanism of most water proofing materials
Utilization of a 3D CFD model to simulate airflow behaviour towards optimization of cooling within data center
No full textxiv, 69 p. : col.In recent years, efficient cooling management systems in data centers have been a high priority to ensure that the optimum operating condition is maintained under the current high level of digitalization. However, numerous data centers still encounter cooling inefficiencies due to factors such as CRAC unit arrangement, poorly positioned perforated tiles, and inadequate return air patterns where supply air mixes with return air. Addressing these challenges is essential for enhancing airflow and improving cooling efficiency. Therefore, in this research, the quality of temperature distribution and the airflow pattern in the DFCU data center were analyzed using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach. CFD simulations were used to quantify the facility’s thermal cooling by developing a graphical user interface for component description and viewing. There was a need to compare the flow field and temperature distribution in the data center under different layouts since using CFD models describing solid bodies with thermal mass and energy balance principle makes it possible to visualize temperature and airflow patterns. From the results, the DFCU Bank data center showed temperature variations; hence there was a timely need for efficient cooling management to ensure the temperatures were within the limits recommended by ASHRAE. The simulation results had projections of the high-temperature zones and a comprehensive 3D examination of airflow distribution, and optimization methods established the best airflow arrangement. In addition to that, detailed temperature examinations of the individual racks and three-dimensional thermal mapping would establish the problematic regions and also inform how well the computer room air conditioning units were working. The various conclusions drawn from the research reveal that the cooling capacity would be improved, by adding two additional CRAC units each of 18kw, incorporating a return air duct system for better air distribution, and reducing exhaust air and supply air mixing through arterial blanking. These would result in a streamlined airflow in the data center, and a high cooling efficiency will be noted, which would eventually lead to low levels of energy consumed
Assistive technology use in teaching mathematics to students with visual impairment in two selected secondary schools in eastern Uganda
No full textxii, 136 p.Technology advancement has become inevitable in the teaching process world over. Educational institutions across the world have enormously invested in technology to enhance teaching. Despite such enormous investment, the majority of teachers are not using ATs for teaching. Moreover, there are limited studies that demonstrate the importance of ATs in teaching SwVI. Hence this study explored the use of ATs in teaching Mathematics to SwVI in two selected secondary schools in Eastern Uganda. It was guided by three objectives namely; (i) To establish the ATs available for teaching Mathematics to SwVI in two selected secondary schools in Eastern Uganda; (ii) To examine the training undergone by teachers to enable them to use ATs to teach Mathematics to SwVI in two selected secondary schools in Eastern Uganda; and (iii) To explore how ATs are used to teach Mathematics to SwVI in two selected secondary schools in Eastern Uganda. It was hoped that the findings of the study would help various stakeholders recognize the necessity for using ATs in schools. Locating the study in Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) as a theoretical framework to enhance an understanding of the use of ATs in teaching mathematics to SWLV, the researcher adopted a qualitative research approach and a case study design to execute the research. Qualitative data for the study was collected from a sample of eight that was purposively selected. Data was collected using two methods namely: semi-structured interviews and observations.
The data collected was thematically analysed to derive meaning from them. The findings from the study revealed that Secondary Schools in Eastern Uganda had a few low-tech and high-tech ATs for teaching mathematics to SwVI, the teachers had general informal training with barely formal training which posed a major challenge on the use of ATs to teach mathematics to SwVI. There was use of ATs observed during the teaching of mathematics to SwVI to a lesser extent because of the informal training attained by teachers. The study concluded that secondary schools had inadequate ATs for teaching mathematics to SwVI; teachers were not adequately trained to use ATs as a pedagogical tool to teach mathematics to SwVI while the level of ATs use in teaching mathematics to SwVI remains wanting in Secondary Schools. The study recommended that more appropriate low-tech and high-tech ATs for teaching mathematics to SwVI be procured and supplied to secondary schools by the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), NGOs and other stakeholders. It further recommended that the government through MoES and school administrators should offer opportunities to teachers in Secondary Schools to go for in-service and pre-service training on the use of ATs to teach mathematics to SwVI. Additionally, MoES and school administrators should offer the opportunity for more in-service and preservice training for teachers on the use, repair and maintenance of ATs for teaching mathematics to SwVI
Implementation of inclusive physical education in primary schools in Lira city, northern Uganda
No full textxiv, 64 p. : Maps.All pupils are expected to actively participate in PE because it is an essential part of the academic program. As a result, educational institutions like schools have been recognized as places where pupils can learn the benefits of a physical education program. Even though the many advantages of physical activity have drawn much attention, little is understood about the variables that affect the adoption of inclusive PE in primary schools. By employing a cross-sectional survey methodology with 223 participants, the study investigated institutional, teacher, and pupil-related variables that influence the adoption of inclusive PE in primary schools in Lira City. The information was gathered using questionnaires, interview guides, and a documentary review guide. Both descriptive statistics (frequency, percentages, and graphs) and inferential statistics (Pearson product moment coefficient) were used to analyze the data. The results showed that institutional factors, such as large classes, inadequate time allotted for physical activity, and a lack of resources, teacher factors, such as a lack of inclusive PE training and study at all levels of education, teachers' negative attitudes toward inclusive PE, and a lack of preparation on the part of PE teachers, and pupils variables, such as PWDs' low interest in physical activity, disruption of PE lessons, and distaste for inclusive PE activities, were the main contributors. Additionally, institutional related factors had the strongest significant contribution to the prediction of implementation of inclusive PE (r= 0.614, p0<.05), followed by pupil related factors (r=0.667, p<0.01), but teacher related factors had a weakly significant positive relationship with implementation of inclusive PE (r= 0.449, p<0.05). The report suggests that administrators push for PE facilities, that PE curricula be modified to meet the requirements of different learners, and that PE teachers attend in-service courses and seminars to improve their skills in implementing inclusive PE in schools
Subverting state censorship: Social media and the struggle for human rights and democracy in Uganda
No full textThe liberalization of the print and electronic media in Uganda has culminated in a proliferation of media houses. The country now has over 300 licensed radio stations and over 50 television stations. The liberalization of Uganda’s electronic and print media space, however, has not been accompanied by the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of expression and the right to access information. This is because the almost four-decades-old dictatorship in Uganda has put in place draconian media legislations to stifle media freedoms. This has encouraged some media organizations to opt for self-censorship on a number of issues in order to align with the autocratic interests of the state. Consequently, a number of radio and television stations broadcast music, comedy, sports, and other forms of entertainment instead of focusing on fundamental human rights, social justice, democratic and development debates. Many of Uganda’s young people have become cognizant of the fact that the print and electronic media are highly controlled by Museveni’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). In order to advance the struggle for human rights and democracy, they have opted for social media spaces like Facebook, WhatsApp, X, TikTok, and YouTube. This chapter assesses the ethical implications of offensive, libelous, and seditious communication models in the struggle for human rights and democracy in Uganda
External Support and Demographic Factors as Differentials of Achievement Goal Orientation among Adolescent Students in Resource-Limited Environments
No full textP. (1-18) ;This study unveils demographic factors (age, gender, school type, compassion support, parental education, income) as correlates of achievement goal orientation. Using a convergent parallel mixed methods approach, the study investigated the influence of these demographic characteristics on achievement goal orientation among 510 adolescent students aged 12-21 (231 males, 279 females) in secondary schools in Southwestern Uganda. Using Achievement Goal Questionnaire (AGQ-R)
Scale and key informant interview guide, achievement goal orientation preferences and the influence of external support were respectively measured.
Qualitative findings revealed teacher-student relationships, goal-setting training, defined external rewards, and peer pressure as critical factors that influence achievement goal orientation choice. Kruskal Wallis and Mann-Whitney U test results revealed that parents income and education level, students school type and external support influenced achievement goal orientation preference among adolescent students in southwestern Uganda. In conclusion, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interconnectedness of these variables, offering valuable insights to enrich educational interventions especially in resource-limited learning environments. This study contributes to the ongoing efforts to increase adoption of achievement goal orientation that result in self-skill enhancement through targeted and effective educational interventions
Student accommodation and academic engagement of undergraduate students at Ndejje university, central Uganda
No full textx, 96 p.The research investigated the relationship between student accommodation and academic engagement of undergraduate students at Ndejje University in Central Uganda. The objectives of the study were to; establish the relationship between the proximity of student accommodation and students‟ academic engagement, to find out the relationship between the student accommodation facilities and students‟ academic engagement, and to examine the relationship between the quality of student accommodation utilities and students‟ academic engagement. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design. The participants comprised of 120 undergraduate students of Ndejje University which gave a response rate of 60%. The data was collected on the study variables using self-administered questionnaires. Data was analyzed using quantitative methods using relative frequencies and descriptive statistics especially by means. Pearson linear correlation coefficient was used to relate elements of student accommodation and academic engagement of undergraduate students. Regression analysis was used to establish the relationship of each element under student accommodation namely; proximity of student accommodation, student accommodation facilities and the quality of student accommodation utilities with student academic engagement. The findings revealed that the three student accommodation aspects namely; proximity of student accommodation, student accommodation facilities and quality of student accommodation utilities had a positive significant relationship with student academic engagement. This meant that all the three null hypotheses were rejected. Based on these findings, the study therefore established that students residing near the university can attend lectures punctually and consistently due to reduced travel stress, enhancing punctuality, preparedness, and social integration, while also benefiting from easy access to recreational facilities. Student residences‟ aesthetic quality enhances their perception of their living environment, boosting motivation and engagement, and promotes a balanced, productive study environment. While reliable safe water supply improves cleanliness, reduces instances waterborne diseases, and fosters a healthy living environment for undergraduate students, enabling them to concentrate on their studies. The study recommends that University administrators and private entrepreneurs should collaborate and provide affordable, modern accommodation to ensure student academic engagement and The Ministry of Education and Sports and the National Council for Higher Education should establish and enforce minimum standards for university accommodation in Uganda
Meaning-making and health
No full textDuring the last decades, meaning-making has come into focus as a valuable resource for health. Through life, a person might face different challenges such as bereavement, loss of abilities, and unemployment, among others, and the ability to cope with these is decisive for the person’s health and well-being. Making-meaning is a way of coping with difficult situations and can enhance a healing process of the biopsychosocial individual. As nobody lives in a vacuum, meaning-making is dependent on the cultural, social, and relationship context of a person and is an ever-ongoing process as both the individual, the context, and the interaction with the environment are constantly changing. This chapter discusses different models of meaning-making and provides examples of how they work in suicidality, illness, and loss. On this background, the chapter presents a new way of approaching individuals in difficult situations: the power threat meaning framework (PTMF). PTMF was developed as an alternative to diagnostic and medicalized thinking to provide a more contextual understanding of various challenges, emotional distress, and unusual or troubling behavior. The PTMF also offers practical guidance, which is presented briefly