Mak IR Repository (Makerere University)
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Carbapenem resistance among gram negative rods isolated from surgical site infections at Mulago and Kawempe National referral hospitals
No full textA dissertation submitted to the directorate of research and graduate training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the master’s degree of medicine in microbiology of Makerere UniversityBackground: Surgical site infections are becoming increasingly difficult to manage with the rise of drug resistance among causative bacteria. Contributing to this, the use of foreign implants in certain surgeries pauses an even higher risk of infection with these organisms. Carbapenems are normally effective against infections caused by drug resistant Gram-negative rods although, their use is now gravely threatened by the emergence of carbapenemase-producing strains. The epidemiology of carbapenem resistance has not been adequately explored in resource poor countries like Uganda and even less so in the hospital settings targeting Surgical Site Infections (SSIs). Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility profile and associated factors related to carbapenem resistant Gram-negative rods in surgical site infections of patients admitted on the surgical wards of Mulago and Kawempe National Referral Hospitals. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mulago and Kawempe National Referral Hospitals. Wound swabs were processed for all bacterial pathogens using a standard protocol and gram-negative rods screened for susceptibility to carbapenems. Carbapenemase production was also screened using the modified carbapenem inactivation method. Clinical and demographic data was collected to determine the possible associated factors. Results:139 participants with SSIs were enrolled in the study. The median age of the participants was 31 years, IQR (38-25). A total of 152 Gram negative rods were isolated with Escherichia coli (28.9%) the most prevalent followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (25.7%) and Acinetobacter species (15.8%). The isolates were more susceptible to Meropenem and Amikacin; and least susceptible to beta-lactam drugs and sulphonamides. The prevalence of Carbapenem resistance was 6.4%, (95% CI, 3.4-12.1). Drain insertion was 19.6 AOR (4.14-92.64) times more likely associated with carbapenem resistance while surgical antibiotic prophylaxis 0.31 (0.04-2.29) ORS and post-operative antibiotic given 4.96 (0.45-54.39) ORS were also significantly associated with carbapenem resistance. Conclusion: This study concludes that carbapenem resistance is still relatively low among pathogens of surgical site infections at Mulago and Kawempe National Referral Hospitals. Recommendation: The study recommends that drain insertion should be monitored with regular microbiological sampling to assess colonization of drain tubes with drug resistant organisms.UB
Information literacy competency of visually impaired students of Kyambogo University
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of a Master of Science in Information Science of Makerere UniversityThe contemporary study concentrated on the information literacy competency of visually impaired students at Kyambogo University. The objectives of the study were; to examine the information literacy level of the students with visual impairments of Kyambogo University; establish how the visually impaired students of KyU acquire Information Literacy competencies; Identify the factors affecting the Information Literacy Competency of the visually impaired students of Kyambogo University; Propose areas of intervention for enhancing Information Literacy competency of the visually impaired students of Kyambogo University.
The study utilized a Case study research design within a mixed methods research paradigm, employing unstructured interviews and open-ended questionnaires for data collection from a sample of 67 respondents. It was found that visually impaired students at KyU demonstrate proficiency in using and communicating information, and uphold ethical information use. However, they struggle with accurately incorporating citations and quotes into documents. While they are effective at evaluating information from various sources, they face difficulties in evaluating online sources. KyU provides pre-education on assistive technologies, but challenges include limited time allocated to information literacy teaching and poor attitudes towards literacy training among visually impaired students. The study suggests the implementation of adequate and accurate information literacy resources training as a strategy for improvement of Literacy competency of the visually impaired students of Kyambogo University.
The study's findings reveal that visually impaired students at KyU possess information literacy competencies to a significant extent, albeit with notable limitations. Specifically, the study concludes that KyU can effectively enhance the acquisition of information literacy skills among visually impaired students through the implementation of relevant inclusive IL programs. However, it also identifies ongoing challenges faced by KyU in supporting information literacy training for visually impaired students, indicating the need for further improvement. To address this, the study emphasizes the importance of adopting the recommended strategies to enhance information literacy skills among visually impaired students at KyU.
The study underscores the importance of improving information literacy among visually impaired students at KyU. To address this, it recommends increased investment in computer programs and specialized software tailored to their needs. Furthermore, it suggests mandatory training in pre-education technologies for all library staff to better support visually impaired students in achieving their educational goals. Creativity among library staff is also highlighted as crucial for maximizing available resources and time to enhance information literacy. Finally, the study advocates for the adoption of all suggested strategies to comprehensively improve information literacy among visually impaired students at KyU
Coupling of carbon dioxide with epoxides to form cyclic carbonates using manganese based-polyoxometalate metal organic frameworks
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the Degree of Master of Science in Chemistry of Makerere UniversityThis study reports manganese based polyoxometalate metal organic frameworks (POMOF A and POMOF B) as catalytic systems for the cycloaddition of carbon dioxide with epoxides to form cyclic carbonates. The POMOF catalysts were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions at moderately acidic conditions (pH ≈ 5). POMOF A comprised of arsenic as the hetero atom, manganese as the active metal and glutaric acid as the organic ligand. While POMOF B comprised of selenium as the hetero atom, manganese as the active metal and terephthalic acid as the organic ligand. The POMOF catalysts were characterized using Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), inductively coupled plasma – mass spectroscopy (ICP -MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) and ultra violet – visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). The catalysts were employed in the coupling of CO2 and epoxides under varying reaction conditions using propylene oxide as the model oxide. The reaction was carried out in a pressurized autoclave reactor at specific set conditions of temperature (100-160 oC), CO2 pressure (10-35 bars), catalyst load (0-0.1 g) and reaction time (2-9 h), in presence of a tetrabutylammonium bromide as co-catalyst and acetonitrile as a solvent. Determination of the optimal reaction conditions such as temperature, reaction time, pressure of CO2 and catalyst load were done using response surface methodology (RSM). The identification and quantification of the reaction products was achieved using GC-MS and GC-FID respectively. Under optimal reaction conditions (140 oC, 6 hrs, 0.075 g, 25 bars), the POMOF catalysts exhibited good performance in coupling of CO2 and propylene oxide producing the desired propylene carbonate in high yields (≥ 87%). For both catalyst systems, the conversion of propylene oxide was ≥ 89% and the selectivity for propylene carbonate was ≥ 99%. The catalytic activity of the POMOFs was also tested in the coupling of CO2 and other epoxides such as styrene oxide, cyclohexene oxide and butylene oxide. In all cases, the corresponding cyclic carbonates were produced in excellent yields (83-95%) with ≥ 99% selectivity for the desired cyclic carbonates. Interestingly the POMOF catalysts could be recovered after the reactions and reused without significant loss in activity
The art of imagined conversations: exploring narrative possibilities through hypothetical interviews
No full textA bookThe Art of Imagined Conversations: Exploring Narrative Possibilities through Hypothetical Interviews,' Isaac Christopher Lubogo unveils a magnum opus that transcends the boundaries of traditional discourse, offering readers a journey into the depths of philosophical inquiry and intellectual exploration. With masterful prose and profound insight, Lubogo navigates the intricate labyrinth of contemporary debates and dilemmas, weaving a tapestry of hypothetical dialogues that challenge the very foundations of our understanding. At its core, this seminal work represents a departure from conventional literary conventions, daring to traverse the realms of imagination and intellectual speculation. Through the artful construction of hypothetical interviews, Lubogo invites readers to engage with a diverse array of perspectives, ideologies, and worldviews, transcending the limitations of empirical evidence and historical accuracy. Each dialogue serves as a window into the complexities of the human condition, probing existential questions, moral quandaries, and the nature of truth itself. What sets 'The Art of Imagined Conversations' apart is its profound philosophical underpinnings, drawing upon a rich tapestry of philosophical traditions—from the dialectical dialectics of Socrates to the existential musings of Kierkegaard. Lubogo deftly navigates the terrain of epistemology, ethics, and metaphysics, inviting readers to contemplate the very essence of existence and the limits of human knowledge. Through the prism of imagined dialogues, he challenges our preconceptions, provokes our assumptions, and beckons us to embrace the uncertainty and ambiguity of the human experience. Yet, beyond its philosophical profundity, 'The Art of Imagined Conversations' is imbued with a profound sense of empathy, compassion, and humanism. Through the voices of hypothetical interlocutors, Lubogo channels the collective wisdom of humanity, offering solace to the weary, guidance to the lost, and companionship to the solitary. In the intimate space of imagined conversations, readers find solace in the shared struggles, triumphs, and aspirations of the human spirit, forging connections that transcend the boundaries of time, space, and ideology. In conclusion, 'The Art of Imagined Conversations' stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature to illuminate the human experience, provoke thought, and inspire action. Through its pages, readers are invited to embark on a transformative odyssey of intellectual, emotional, and spiritual discovery—a journey that transcends the confines of ordinary discourse and opens the door to new realms of possibility and insight. As we navigate the turbulent waters of the 21st century, may 'The Art of Imagined Conversations' serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a more enlightened, empathetic, and interconnected worl
The role of Yemeni women in peacebuilding and conflict transformation processes
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in fulfilment of the partial requirements for the award of a Degree of Master of Arts in Peace and Conflict Studies of Makerere University.The role of Yemeni women in peacebuilding and conflict transformation is a dynamic and evolving narrative shaped by historical challenges and contemporary socio-political shifts. This research delves into the multifaceted journey of Yemeni women from facing substantial barriers to participating in public life before 2010 to actively engaging in various spheres during the transitional period of 2011-2014. The outbreak of conflict in 2015 presented new complexities, impacting women's political involvement and relegating their voices in official negotiations. Despite adversities, Yemeni women have demonstrated resilience and determination, contributing significantly at the grassroots level in community-based initiatives, mediation endeavours, and advocacy for peace. The study acknowledged the historical and patriarchal barriers and societal challenges faced by Yemeni women, emphasizing the importance of understanding the local perspectives that influence their involvement in peacebuilding efforts. The research identified the critical issues that hinder Yemeni women's participation in decision making and peacebuilding processes, exploring potential models to enhance their involvement. Additionally, it scrutinized existing policies and strategies influencing the inclusion of women in peacebuilding and conflict transformation. The ongoing conflict has further marginalized women, and the study recognized the need for an enabling environment that acknowledges and supports the vital contributions of Yemeni women in peacebuilding. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to addressing the underrepresentation and undervaluation of Yemeni women in peacebuilding. By examining the historical context, current challenges, and potential solutions, the study aimed to inform policies and interventions that promote meaningful participation of women in decision-making processes at all levels. The ultimate goal is to harness the untapped potential of Yemeni women, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable peace in Yemen
Exploring Vertical Housing for Informal Settlements: A case of Kamwokya II in Kampala.
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training,
College of Engineering, design, Art, and Technology, Makerere University in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Science in Urban Planning and Design (MUPD).In Uganda, urban informal settlements pose significant challenges in terms of housing quality, density, and livaebility, especially in rapidly growing cities like Kampala. This study explores the plausibility of introducing vertical housing solutions as a sustainable approach to addressing housing issues in informal settlements, using Kamwokya II as a case study. Kamwokya II exemplifies typical challenges of overcrowding, informality, and limited access to basic services.
The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with community members, local leaders, and housing experts, alongside quantitative surveys to explore, characteristics of vertical building types, and building types that are appropriate for vertical housing. Key aspects examined include the social acceptance of vertical housing, building materials of existing vertical buildings, and recommended building prototypes.
Findings suggest that vertical housing if implemented strategically, could offer potential benefits such as increased housing density, improved living conditions, and enhanced community social interactions among households. However, challenges such as land tenure issues, affordability, and cultural preferences must be carefully addressed to ensure the sustainability and acceptance of vertical housing solutions.
The study contributes to the discourse on urban development strategies for informal settlements, offering insights into the potential of vertical housing to provide sustainable and inclusive housing solutions in Kampala and similar contexts
Effect of silicon fertilizer on resilience against the fall armyworm and maize (Zea mays L.) yield
No full textA thesis submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Soil Science of Makerere UniversitySilicon nutrition is known to enhance plant resistance against insect pests and thus can be used as a tool to improve management of the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), on maize. The FAW is the most destructive invasive species of pest that has impacted every corner of the Africa, causing significant harm to major crops such as maize, sorghum, millet, and legumes.Multi- location experiments were conducted in the districts of Mayuge, Tororo (eastern Uganda) and Wakiso (central Uganda). The experiments were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with eight replications and Longe 5 maize variety was used as the test crop. In part one of the experiment, the treatments were silicon [Si (OH)4] alone, silicon in combination with pesticide Eminent, pesticide Eminent alone and control. In part two of the experiment, five rates (mL/20L) of silicon (0, 5, 10, 15, 20) were the treatments. Both treatments were applied 21 days after planting (DAP) after natural infestation of FAW and 31 DAP for seasons 2019A and 2019B. Data were collected on the number of FAW larvae, FAW damage severity, and number of lady birds, larvae population growth rate,leaf strength and yield. Silicon application negativelyaffected fall armyworm. Plants that received Silicon were less damaged. Application of silicon alone or in combination with pesticide Eminent reduced fall armyworm damage and FAW larvae in maize (56% and 36%). Silicon reduced FAW larvae (26%) and negatively impacted FAW larvae population growth rate. Silicon rate 15ml/20L (1L/Ha) gave the highest maize yield response. Application of Si to maize proved to be effective in controlling the FAW, probably due to induction of a biochemical defense line but also the creation of physical barriers that increase plant tissue hardness not necessarily the leaf strength
Examination of the realisation of the right to education among street children in Uganda: a case study of Central Division, Kampala, District, 2000-2020
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Arts in Human Rights of Makerere University.This study aimed at assessing the realization of the Right to education among street children in Uganda focusing on central division in Kampala Capital City Authority. The study established from a human rights perspective the meaning of the right to education as entailed in the human rights instruments. Assessed the effectiveness of the existing legal and institutional frameworks mandated to protect and promote the right to education for all including street children and the study also assessed from a human rights point of view the situation regarding the realization of the right to education among street children in central division, Kampala Capital city Authority. The study employed a case study design which was descriptive and analytical to gather both qualitative and quantitative data through data collection methods such as Observation, focused group discussion, interviews and questionnaires and a total of 85 respondents were selected for the study using purposive and Random sampling. Findings regarding the meaning of the right to education as entailed in the human rights instruments indicated that Education is both a human right in itself and an indispensable means of realizing other human rights. It was revealed that as empowerment right, education is the primary vehicle by which economically and socially marginalized groups can lift themselves out of poverty and obtain the means to participate fully in their communities. In relation to the effectiveness of the existing legal and institutional frameworks mandated to protect and promote the right to education for all including street children, findings indicated that whereas Uganda has ratified and domesticated a number of human rights instruments both international, regional and national of which education policies such as UPE and USE policies aimed at protecting and promoting the right to education for all (street children inclusive) were introduced. Furthermore, findings indicated that Government of Uganda has by circumstance absconded from its constitutional mandate and totally failed to meet its obligations to protect and promote children’s Right to education, because of the shortcomings in the government's implementation of its children protection frameworks which has contributed negatively to the realization of Right to education among street children in Uganda. Concerning the situation about the realization of the right to education among street children in central division, Kampala Capital city Authority, Qualitative findings from focused group’s discussions indicated most respondents didn’t attend school since there was no money to pay for school fees and the outbreak of COVID-19 made it worse. Despite, the international, national legal and institutional human rights frameworks having played a significant role in enhancing the right to education for all, there are still noticeable challenges in their implementation. For instance, despite Uganda’s efforts for the protection and promotion of the right to education for all through the introduction of both Universal primary Education and Universal Secondary Education policies which are in line with article 13 of the international covenant on economic, social and cultural Rights (1966) , article 28 of the Convention on the Rights of the child of 1989, Article 17 of the 1981 African Charter on Human and people’s Rights also (Known as the Banjul Charter),the realization of the Right to education amidst the existence of the above government interventions is still a major challenge among street children. The study concluded that in order to have a long-lasting solution to the realization of the right to education among street children, there is need to amend both international and national legal frameworks to address the unique barriers street children face in accessing education and acknowledging their realities which are crucial in the development of education programmes that leave no street children behind. Based on the study findings, the research puts forward the following recommendations; There is need for the government of the Republic of Uganda to construct special schools to cater for children with special needs (Street children Inclusive), Government of the Republic of Uganda should revise the National Teachers training colleges’ curriculum to include special modules for children with special needs as well as Strengthening community child protection systems to support children to resettle with their families
Determinants and barriers of time to initiation of anti-tuberculosis treatment among children under 15 years at a Primary Health Care Center in Kampala, Uganda
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Award of Master of Medicine in Paediatrics and Child Health of Makerere University.Background: Globally, it is estimated that 1,200,000 children under 15 years developed tuberculosis disease and this accounted for 12% of the global disease burden in 2019. The WHO reports that the diagnosis of TB in children under 15 years of age is a significant challenge in finding people with TB and therefore a barrier to ending TB as a global public health threat by 2030. Delay in initiation of anti-tuberculosis treatment beyond the recommended 30 days from onset of symptoms is associated with disease progression into significant morbidity and mortality. Study objective: To determine the median time to initiation of anti-tuberculosis medication and the associated determinants and barriers among children under 15 years at Kisenyi health centre IV. Methods: This was a convergent parallel mixed methods study. Quantitative data was collected through the review of 152 files of children under 15 years that were treated for TB at Kisenyi HC IV from 1st February 2021 to 28th February 2023. Kobo collect was used to data collection and analysis was done with STATA 17.Kaplan Meyer was used to estimate median time to initiation of TB medication from symptom onset. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to analyze variables that affect Median time to initiation of anti TB medication. Qualitative data was collected through key informant interviews among health care workers involved in the care of children with tuberculosis. Data was collected to the point of saturation. Thematic analysis will be used to describe the data. Results: A total of 152 children were recruited into the study. The median time to initiation of anti-TB medication was 39.5 days with IQR of 50.9 days. Pulmonary bacteriologically confirmed disease (HR; 0.54, 95%CI; 0.31-0.88, P value; 0.016) was found to be the only significant determinant of time to initiation of anti-TB medication. Barriers to promptly initiating anti-TB medication were high patient volumes, loss of community contacts, referral of children under 5 with suspected TB to Mulago, inadequate equipment and supplies and poor knowledge of childhood TB among caregivers. Recommendations:
Research into more sensitive diagnostic tests to increase the proportion of children U15 with bacteriologically confirmed TB. Key words: Childhood TB, Paediatric tuberculosis, TB treatment delays, Barriers childhood TB, COM-B model
A gender analysis of smallholder farmer participation in potato marketing in Kyenjojo District, Uganda
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Masters of Agricultural Extension and Education of Makerere UniversityThis study examined the level of participation of men and women in potato marketing in Kyenjojo District in Western Uganda.
The study was guided by three objectives to describe the potato marketing systems, assess the householder decision making power, and to analyze the factors that influence the level of intensity of market participation among smallholder potato farmers. Cross-sectional survey research design was used which employed structured questionnaires to collect data among randomly selected men and women potato farmers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary probit regression model. The results show that most potato farmers were of middle age, married, mostly attained primary education and mostly grow potato to earn income. More men report to added value by grading potato as compared to women. The local traders mainly preferred large sized potato tubers. Most men use motorcycles/bicycles to transport the products to market places while most women sell their potato at farm gate. Men made more sole production decisions on size and location of land to use, fertilizer use and pest and disease control while women made more sole decisions post-harvest management, weeding and variety of potato to grow. Decisions were made jointly by men and women on land preparation, planting and harvesting. In regard to marketing decisions, men took most of the decisions especially on the mode of transport, use income and where to sell the potato while women report to be more involved in making decisions on storage. Overall, men had higher decision-making power on both production and marketing of potato compared to women. The level of intensity of market participation among men was influenced by quantity produced, cost of transport, size of land accessed, experience in potato growing, and form in which potato is sold. While among women, the intensity of market participation was majorly influenced by quantity produced and their education level. Interventions aimed at enabling women access education opportunities and increasing access resources and assets such as land should be explored. The researcher recommends implementing interventions aimed at increasing quantity of potato produced and marketed such as access to better yielding varieties and knowledge of good agronomy practices and market education to increase productivity as a precursor for higher market participation