Academic publications

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/16

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Gender Differences in Paying Bribes: The Role of Perceived Descriptive Norms of Corruption in Uganda
(Spinger Nature Link, 2023-10-23) Richard Sebaggala; Clare Cheromoi
Although a significant number of studies have reported that gender is associated with less corruption, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Using 2017 Afrobarometer individual-level survey data for Uganda, this chapter examines gender differences in paying bribes and the mediating effect of perceived descriptive norms. We estimated a multivariate logistic model to examine the effects of gender on bribe-paying while controlling for individual and household factors, and then implemented the Karlsson-Breen-Holm method to determine the mediating effect of perceived descriptive norms of corruption on the relationship between gender and paying bribes. We observed significant gender differences in paying bribes for obtaining government documents and police assistance. Results further revealed that perceived descriptive norms significantly mediated the relationship between gender and paying bribes. The results suggest that gender differences in paying bribes can be sizably reduced by appropriate interventions that deal with social norms of corruption in society.
Has Strategic Purchasing Led to Improvements in Health Systems? A Narrative Review of Literature on Strategic Purchasing
(Health Systems & Reform, 2022-12-23) Fred Matovu; Agnes Gatome-Munyua; Richard Sebaggala
Strategic purchasing is noted in the literature as an approach that can improve the efficiency of health spending, increase equity in access to health care services, improve the quality of health care delivery, and advance progress toward universal health coverage. However, the evidence on how strategic purchasing can achieve these improvements is sparse. This narrative review sought to address this evidence gap and provide decision makers with lessons and policy recommendations. The authors conducted a systematic review based on two research questions: 1) What is the evidence on how purchasing functions affect purchasers’ leverage to improve: resource allocation, incentives, and accountability; intermediate results (allocative and technical efficiency); and health system outcomes (improvements in equity, access, quality, and financial protection)? and 2) What conditions are needed for a country to make progress on strategic purchasing and achieve health system outcomes? We used database searches to identify published literature relevant to these research questions, and we coded the themes that emerged, in line with the purchasing functions—benefits specification, contracting arrangements, provider payment, and performance monitoring—and the outcomes of interest. The extent to which strategic purchasing affects the outcomes of interest in different settings is partly influenced by how the purchasing functions are designed and implemented, the enabling environment (both economic and political), and the level of development of the country’s health system and infrastructure. For strategic purchasing to provide more value, sufficient public funding and pooling to reduce fragmentation of schemes is important.
Predicting the Adoption of Covid-19 Public Health Preventive Measures in Ethiopia: Application of Health Belief Model
(Texila International Journal of Public Health, 2023-09-29) Luwaga Liliane; Isaac Okullo; Richard Sebaggala; Denis Mubiru; Sisay Derso Mengesha
In the face of coronavirus disease pandemic, adherence to public health measures largely influences their effectiveness in containing the spread. Four specific objectives guided this study: (i) Assess whether individuals are adhering to the COVID-19 preventive measures promoted by Ethiopian government; (ii) Examine the heterogeneity in adoption of preventive measures in Ethiopia; (iii) Identify the factors affecting adherence to preventive measures-based health belief model; and (iv) Examine the moderating effects of socio-economic factors on the relationship between adherence to preventive measures and HBM factors. The study relied on a nationally representative cross-sectional survey commissioned by the World Health Organization in 2021 for Ethiopia. Data was collected from 895 individuals aged 18 years of age or older. Analysis applied several methods including the Multiple Correspondence Analysis, Univariate analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, cluster analysis and multiple regression analysis. Using face masks and washing hands were the most frequently practiced preventive measures. The regression analysis indicated that perceived severity, perceived barriers, and cues to action showed a significant association with adherence at p >0.05. Furthermore, socio-economic factors have a moderating role on adherence to preventive measures and HBM factors. Effective promotion and adoption of preventive measures require addressing individuals' perceptions of severity and benefits while minimizing barriers and providing clear cues to action. Additionally, specific preventive measures that require ongoing effort and habit development may face challenges in adoption. Tailoring interventions can help overcome these challenges and encourage the widespread adoption of preventive measures to curtail the spread.
Heterogeneity in the Adoption of Covid-19 Preventive Measures Among Adults in Ethiopia: A Cluster Analysis Approach
(Texila International Journal of Public Health, 2023-12-29) Liliane Lwanga; Richard Sebaggala; Susan Nyawade; Sisay Derso Mengesha; Isaac Okullo
This study investigates the extent of heterogeneity in the adoption of preventive measures among adult individuals in Ethiopia. Utilizing a nationally representative cross-sectional survey conducted by the World Health Organization in 2021, encompassing 895 participants, we explore the varying patterns of preventive measure adoption. Hierarchical cluster analysis is employed to discern potential subgroups within the respondents based on their adoption of preventive measures. Subsequently, logistic regression analysis is applied to ascertain the factors associated with the identified group divisions. We identify two distinct groups characterized by their responses to nine preventive measures. Group 1 comprises the majority of respondents (87%) who exhibit lower frequencies of adopting preventive measures. In contrast, Group 2 consists of 13% of respondents who demonstrate a higher frequency of adopting preventive measures. The amalgamation of cluster analysis and logistic regression outcomes yields insightful implications for the profile of preventive measure adoption. Our logistic regression analysis delves into the determinants influencing membership in the identified subgroups. Notably, it uncovers that individuals with a higher educational attainment exhibit a 2.33-fold greater likelihood of belonging to Group 1, signifying their relatively lesser adoption of preventive measures. In conclusion, this study not only sheds light on the heterogeneity within the adoption of preventive measures among Ethiopian adults but also underscores the influence of education on the propensity to adopt such measures. The findings contribute to better understanding of the dynamics surrounding public health behavior in the context of a pandemic.
Coaching Third-year Certificate Midwives to Improve Partograph Skills: A Study of a Nurses and Midwives Training School in Western Uganda
(Scholars Journal of Medical Case Reports, 2025-04-19) Ekong Elizabeth Namukombe; Biira Antoinette; Drake Karen B
Background: Maternal and neonatal deaths’ resulting from obstructed and prolonged labor is still a major challenge in the developing countries. These complications can be prevented if a partograph is used as a labor monitoring tool. Teaching is more of theoretical which has affected partograph skill acquisition. Coaching as a teaching strategy may be helpful in advancing the development of learners’ skills. This study explored the effectiveness of coaching towards improving skill acquisition of certificate midwives in labor monitoring using partograph. Benner’s theoretical model from novice to expert guided the study. Methodology: The study employed an interventional quasi-experimental design. Census sampling was used to select the participants. Data was collected from third-year certificate midwives using scenarios and a checklist on partograph parameters. A paired t-test was used to determine the difference between pre test and post-test students’ scores. Results: The findings indicated that before the implementation of coaching, there was inadequate skills in almost all parameters of using partograph among the third-year certificate midwives in monitoring labor. Posttest intervention indicated that there was statistically significant (P=0.000) improvement in the skill of using a partograph in monitoring labor after coaching. Conclusion: Coaching as a teaching strategy showed a significant advancement in skill acquisition of monitoring labor using a partograph among the third-year certificate midwives. This study recommends that coaching may be used as an alternative strategy in the midwifery training program to enhance skill acquisition on partograph use.
Institutional Mediation and Teacher Engagement: A Contextual Model for ELearning Uptake in Uganda's Universal Secondary Education Schools
(East African Nature & Science Organisation, 2025-10-30) Nantagya Grace Ssebanakitta; Joel Yawe Masagazi; Mary Kagoire Ocheng; Kyakulumbye Stephen
This study, titled "Institutional Mediation and Teacher Engagement: A Contextual Model for E-Learning Uptake in Uganda's Universal Secondary Education Schools," investigates the strategies employed by teachers to overcome barriers to e-learning adoption within low-resource educational settings. Specifically, it explores how teachers in Kampala-based USE schools adapt to infrastructural, institutional, and pedagogical challenges, and proposes a contextual model to guide future integration efforts. Guided by the overarching objective to identify teacher-led strategies for navigating e-learning challenges, the study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, combining quantitative data from 393 teachers and qualitative insights from 10 headteachers across all USE schools in Kampala City. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, with rigorous procedures to ensure validity, trustworthiness, and triangulation. The findings reveal that teachers employed a combination of personal, peer-based, and institutionally facilitated strategies, including the use of personal devices, offline content sharing, peer mentorship, rotational scheduling, and community-supported ICT resource mobilisation. Despite their creativity and adaptability, these coping mechanisms were often fragmented, inconsistent, and dependent on individual initiative rather than system-wide planning. Qualitative insights underscored the critical role of empathetic leadership, flexible budgeting, and informal CPD structures in supporting these grassroots innovations. Drawing on Constructivism, Connectivism, Technology-Mediated Learning Theory (TMLT), and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the study developed the Institutionally Mediated E-Learning Uptake Model (IMELUM). This model highlights the dynamic interplay between infrastructural readiness, leadership support, teacher competence, and institutional culture as key mediators of sustainable e-learning engagement. The study concludes that while teacher-led coping strategies are commendable, they are insufficient without systemic institutional support, strategic policy alignment, and sustained investment. It recommends formalising grassroots innovations into national digital education frameworks, strengthening school-level professional development, and incentivising collaborative partnerships. Suggested directions for further research include: evaluating the long-term impact of peer mentorship on e-learning competence, assessing the role of institutional leadership in sustaining digital transformation, and investigating scalable funding models for ICT integration in secondary schools.
Determinants of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Artisanal and Small‑scale Mining Communities of Uganda
(BMC Public Health, 2025-05-24) Betty Kwagala; Hanna Chidwick; Deborah Mensah; John Bosco Asiimwe; Stephen Ojiambo Wandera; Miriam Mutabazi; Fred Ngabirano; Lydia Osei; Lydia Kapiriri
Background The artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector has become an important employer in mineral rich countries of sub Saharan Africa where women constitute up to half of the labour force. However, gender and socio-economic marginalization negatively impact the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of the adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) who work in the ASM sector. Despite the growing literature on adolescents’ SRH, there is a paucity of literature on the SRH of this last mile population. This paper fills this gap in the literature by examining the prevalence and determinants of self reported sexually transmitted infection (STI) status among AGYW in the ASM gold mining sectors of Uganda. Methods The paper is based on 636 AGYW working in the mining sectors in Uganda who had ever had sex. Descriptive analysis involved frequency distributions and chi squared tests. Multivariable analysis involved fitting a binary logistic regression model to assess the determinants of self reported STI status of the AGYW. Results Almost half (47%) of the respondents had a self reported STI during the 12 months preceding the study. The odds of reporting an STI were higher among adult young women compared with minors (AOR = 3.35; 95% CI 1.82 – 6.16); AGYW with primary level of education compared to those with none (AOR = 2.89; 95% CI 1.24 – 6.75); who drank alcohol (AOR 1.59; 95% CI 1.06—2.39); and engaged in transactional sex (AOR 2.42; 95% CI 1.37 – 4.28). Conclusions The results highlight the urgent need to respond to the high prevalence of self reported STIs among AGYW in ASM. The risk factors constitute multiple and intersecting vulnerabilities that require both preventive and curative interventions targeting female and male ASM workers and host communities, with emphasis on behavioral change and promotion of viable alternative sources of income. The ministries of Health, Gender, Labour and Social Development and key development partners should adopt a multi sectoral approach that effectively engages key stakeholders, including mining host communities, given the close interrelations between gender, health and economic aspects of the AGYW’s lives.ckground Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is an important source of minerals globally [1, 2]. The sector is a significa
Influence of Motivational Strategies on Tutors’ Performance: A Case of Teacher Training Institutions in Eastern Uganda
(East African Journal of Education and Social Sciences, 2025-08-08) Margaret Sarah Nafuna; Joel Yawe Masagazi; David Andrew Omona
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of motivational strategies on the performance of tutors among Teacher Training Institutions (TTIs) in Eastern Uganda. A multiple-case study design was adopted to explore both intrinsic and extrinsic motivational efforts. The study population comprised tutors, principals, deputy principals and members of Boards of Governors from three Core Primary Teacher Colleges. Using a purposive sampling procedure, 66participantswere selected, including 45 tutors, 3 principals, 6 deputy principals, and 12 Board members, based on their direct involvement in teacher education and institutional management. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis identified key patterns and relationships between motivation and tutor performance. The findings show that motivation influences autonomy, engagement, job satisfaction and teaching effectiveness. Professional growth opportunities, recognition and structured feedback systems were critical in sustaining the motivation. The study concludes that a multifaceted motivational framework grounded in selected theoretical frameworks enhances the performance of tutors and institutional productivity. It recommends that TTIs institutionalize transparent goal-setting, equitable reward systems, continuous professional development and supportive feedback mechanisms to strengthen motivation and overall educational outcomes.
Digital Communication and Mentor-ship: The Use of WhatsApp in Bishop Stuart University, Uganda
(Journal of the East Africa Communication Association, 2025-08) Pamela Tumwebaze; Samuel Kazibwe; John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa
The purpose of the study was to examine the effectiveness of using WhatsApp communication to achieve a successful mentor-ship experience for both the mentor and the mentee in Bishop Stuart University (BSU). Indepth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted on a sample of 62 respondents who included mentors, mentees and social media experts. The study was guided by the communication affordances theory. The study revealed that WhatsApp has introduced more potentialities for mentor-ship programmes in BSU. However, the opportunities come with several challenges such as limited access to digital tools, limited digital literacy among the mentors and mentees, poor internet connection, mentees and mentors’ fatigue, among others. To overcome the existing challenges, the study recommends a number measures including vigilant planning, adaptability, and clear communication.
The Impact of Strategic Leadership and Committee Practices, Ethics Training, and Whistleblowing on Fraud Prevention in Churches
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2024-05-24) Wasswa Asaph Senoga
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of strategic leadership and committee practices, ethics training, whistleblowing, and their effects on the Fraud prevention of Churches. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 12 surveys conducted in the church of Uganda dioceses in central Uganda. Regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between the impact of Strategic leadership and Committee practices, ethics training, whistleblowing, and fraud prevention. Findings – The findings revealed that strategic leadership and committee practices, ethics training, and whistleblowing significantly contribute to positive fraud prevention for Church finances. Practical implications – In order for Churches to prevent fraud, serious emphasis on strategic leadership, ethics training, and whistleblowing is vital. Originality/value – According to the author’s understanding, this is one of the first empirical studies to assess the impact of strategic leadership and committee practices, ethics training, and whistleblowing on fraud prevention in the Church of Uganda.
Effectiveness of Regulatory Compliance, Auditing, Physical Assets Control Practices on Financial Performance in Churches
(International Journal of research innovation in social science, 2023-04-22) Wasswa Asaph Senoga
The purpose of this study is to explore the effect control practices of compliance with rules and policies, internal auditing, and Physical access control to assets and financial documents in enhancing the financial performance of churches. The study was guided by agency theory. The positivist philosophy guided the selection of appropriate methodologies for this research. It adopted a survey research design with a quantitative approach to explore the relationship between the variables and test hypotheses. This study used primary data gathered from questionnaires issued to twelve church leaders in the central dioceses of the Church of Uganda. Cronbach’s alpha was applied to test the reliability of the research instruments. A multiple regression model using SPSS version 20 was used to analyze the obtained data and test the hypotheses. The findings demonstrated that compliance with rules and policies, internal auditing, and Physical access control to assets and financial documents have a substantial influence on the financial performance in the administration of church money. Based on the findings, the church management should develop effective compliance with rules and policies, internal auditing, and Physical access control to assets and financial documents to improve the church’s financial performance.
Effect of Financial Skills, Knowledge, and Attitude on The Financial Behaviour of Clergy
(International Journal of Reseach and Innovation in Social Science, 2025-09-01) Wasswa Asaph Senoga
Financial literacy, covering knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward money, may empower clergy to make more discerning financial decisions. This study examined how the financial knowledge, skills, and attitudes of clergy in the Mukono diocese influenced their financial behaviour. The data collection approach employed was quantitative research, and 94 clergy from the Mukono diocese were selected using purposive sampling. We employed multiple linear regression analysis. The results reveal that financial knowledge, financial skills, and financial attitudes all exert a significant effect on financial behaviour. We evaluated hypotheses H1, H2, and H3, and all three were affirmed. The independent factors X1 (financial skills), X2 (financial knowledge), and X3 (financial attitudes) significantly positively influence the dependent variable (financial behaviour). This survey indicates that clergy possess considerable financial acumen. Clergy can demonstrate responsibility and awareness by utilizing their financial skills, knowledge, and attitudes to make more insightful decisions.
Institutional Mediation and Teacher Engagement: A Contextual Model for ELearning Uptake in Uganda's Universal Secondary Education Schools
(East African Nature & Science Organisation, 2025-09-17) Nantagya Grace Ssebanakitta; Joel Yawe Masagazi; Mary Kagoire Ocheng; Kyakulumbye Stephen
This study, titled "Institutional Mediation and Teacher Engagement: A Contextual Model for E-Learning Uptake in Uganda's Universal Secondary Education Schools," investigates the strategies employed by teachers to overcome barriers to e-learning adoption within low-resource educational settings. Specifically, it explores how teachers in Kampala-based USE schools adapt to infrastructural, institutional, and pedagogical challenges, and proposes a contextual model to guide future integration efforts. Guided by the overarching objective to identify teacher-led strategies for navigating e-learning challenges, the study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, combining quantitative data from 393 teachers and qualitative insights from 10 headteachers across all USE schools in Kampala City. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, with rigorous procedures to ensure validity, trustworthiness, and triangulation. The findings reveal that teachers employed a combination of personal, peer-based, and institutionally facilitated strategies, including the use of personal devices, offline content sharing, peer mentorship, rotational scheduling, and community-supported ICT resource mobilization. Despite their creativity and adaptability, these coping mechanisms were often fragmented, inconsistent, and dependent on individual initiative rather than system-wide planning. Qualitative insights underscored the critical role of empathetic leadership, flexible budgeting, and informal CPD structures in supporting these grassroots innovations. Drawing on Constructivism, Connectivism, Technology-Mediated Learning Theory (TMLT), and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the study developed the Institutionally Mediated E-Learning Uptake Model (IMELUM). This model highlights the dynamic interplay between infrastructural readiness, leadership support, teacher competence, and institutional culture as key mediators of sustainable e-learning engagement. The study concludes that while teacher-led coping strategies are commendable, they are insufficient without systemic institutional support, strategic policy alignment, and sustained investment. It recommends formalizing grassroots innovations into national digital education frameworks, strengthening school-level professional development, and incentivizing collaborative partnerships. Suggested directions for further research include: evaluating the long-term impact of peer mentorship on e-learning competence, assessing the role of institutional leadership in sustaining digital transformation, and investigating scalable funding models for ICT integration in secondary schools.
The Effect of Accountability, Transparency, And Integrity of Church Leaders on Fraud Prevention in The Management of Church Funds
(International Journal of Reseach and Innovation in Social Science, 2023-01-01) Wasswa Asaph Senoga
The purpose of this study is to explore the present practices of accountability, transparency, church leaders’ integrity, and fraud prevention activities in handling church finances. The study was guided by agency theory, Stakeholders theory, and the Theory of Planned behavior. The positivist philosophy guided the selection of appropriate methodologies for this research. It adopted a survey research design with a quantitative approach to explore the relationship between the variables and test hypotheses. This study used primary data gathered from questionnaires issued to twelve church leaders in the central dioceses of the Church of Uganda. Cronbach’s alpha was applied to test the reliability of the research instruments. A multiple regression model using SPSS version 20 was used to analyze the obtained data and test the hypotheses. The findings demonstrated that accountability, transparency, and Integrity of Church leaders have a substantial influence on the prevention of fraud in the administration of church money. Based on the findings, the church management should develop effective accountability, Transparency, and integrity system to attract potential donors and make church money management affordable.
Information Sources, Gender and Risk Perceptions Understanding Health Behavior in Times of Crisis
(A Journal of the East Africa Communication Association, 2025-08) Samuel Kazibwe; Angela Napakol
The purpose of this research was to establish whether gender differences influenced the health seeking behavior of Ugandans during the peak of the COVID – 19 Pandemic. The Health Belief Model was used as the theoretical framework. The study used survey method, specifically online and physical questionnaires to collect data. For the online questionnaires, Google Forms were developed and shared through email, on WhatsApp groups and on Facebook. Contrary to the existing literature, the paper discovered that the health behaviors of respondents during the COVID – 19 crises in Uganda were not strictly gendered. Previous research has frequently characterized gendered health behaviors in binary terms, casting women as health-conscious and risk-averse, and men as risk-prone and disengaged. However, the data from this study reveal a more intricate and context-dependent pattern. For instance, both female and male respondents largely rejected conspiracy theories regarding vaccine safety and COVID-19 mortality, indicating a shared skepticism toward misinformation and a collective inclination toward evidence-based interpretations of the pandemic. In sum, although gender continues to play a salient role in shaping health-seeking behavior, particularly in the face of novel health risks, this study underscores that these behaviors cannot be solely or uniformly attributed to gender.
Application of Cadherin cRNA Probes in Brains of Alzheimer’s Disease
(Springer Nature, 2024-03-17) Zhou He; Du Shijia; Fred Gendi; LI Haoyue; Fu Jia; Chang Cheng
The cadherin superfamily molecules, functioning as cell adhesion molecules, are recognized to play roles in both physiological and pathological processes. The cadherin-based adherent junction (CAJ) is believed to interact with presenilin-1 (PS-1), suggesting that disruptions in CAJ structures might contribute to neurodegeneration, potentially leading to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Yet, the specific expression patterns of cadherin superfamily mRNA remain somewhat ambiguous. This research utilizes in situ Hybridization (ISH) to examine the expression and localization of cadherin mRNA in AD mouse model brains. Long cRNA probes targeting cadherin revealed endogenous mRNA expression in brain sections. Interestingly, senile plaques in the AD mouse brain are also bound to these probes. This binding, however, may not exclusively denote cadherin mRNA, as ISH detected both antisense and sense cRNA probes. Our data suggests that while antisense cRNA probes effectively detect cadherin mRNA expression in AD brain cells, their association with senile plaques might not specifically signify cadherin mRNA expression.
Treadmill Exercise Improves Brain Energy Metabolism, Motor, and Cognitive Functions in Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Mice Model
(Research Square, 2022-08-24) Feifei Pei; Fred Gendi; Yuan Wang; Haoyue Li; Shijia Du; Susu Cui; Jia Fu; Cheng Chang
More evidence shows that the brain energy demands are enormous. This study aimed to examine the metabolism changes in the brain of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) mice model and to evaluate how treadmill exercise enhances brain metabolism. We used unilateral carotid common artery ligation mice model to simulate the clinical HIE patients. Several behavior tests were used to evaluate the motor and cognitive function impairment, western blot and immunofluorescence were used to assess the metabolism related protein changes in the different groups. Meanwhile, the HIE mice models were randomly divided into exercise training group (HIE-T) which were subjected to four weeks of treadmill exercise training and non-exercise training group (HIE-NT). The results revealed that there was decreased expression of glucose transporters GLUTs in HIE and an enhanced expression of monocarboxylate transporters MCTs, which is an important part of energy metabolism adaptation. After the period of treadmill exercise training, the expression of GLUT1 as well as MCT1 increased in the motor cortex of HIE mice model. Moreover, the mitochondrial cristae and edges were clear and intact under Transmission electron microscope compared with HIE-NT group. This suggests that increased brain energy attributed to treadmill exercise training shows promising therapeutic potential for HIE.
Mitochondrial Proteins Unveil the Mechanism by Which Physical Exercise Ameliorates Memory, Learning and Motor Activity in Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Rat Model
(MDPI, 2022-04-11) Fred Gendi; Feifei Pei; Yuan Wang; Haoye Li; Jia Fu; Cheng Chang
Background: Physical exercise has been shown to improve cognitive and motor functions, promoting neurogenesis and demonstrating therapeutic benefits in neurodegenerative disorders. Nonetheless, it is crucial to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which this occurs. The study aimed to investigate and evaluate the effect of swimming exercise on the changes of mitochondrial proteins in the brains of rats with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Methods: the vertical pole and Morris water maze tests were used to assess the animals’ motor and cognitive functions, and western blot and immunofluorescence of brain tissue were used to assess the biomarkers of mitochondrial apoptosis and cristae stability in response to exercise training. Four groups of rats were used: (1) sham sedentary group (SHAM, NT), (2) sham exercise training group (SHAM, T) (3) hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy sedentary group (HIE, NT), and (4) hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy exercise training group (HIE, T). Results: animals with HIE showed motor and cognitive deficits, as well as increased apoptotic protein expression. Exercise, on the other hand, improved motor and cognitive functions while also suppressing the expression of apoptotic proteins. Conclusions: By stabilizing the mitochondrial cristae and suppressing the apoptotic cascade, physical exercise provided neuroprotection in hypoxic ischemia-induced brain injury.
Students’ Health Seeking Behaviour and its Rationale at Uganda Christian University
(Texila International Journal, 2018-09-28) Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Carabine, Deirdre; Kikule, Ekiria
Uganda Christian University’s records of 2013-2014 show that approximately 30% of the 3,300 students in the Easter Semester did not register for and therefore could not use the University’s health services. This study analysed Uganda Christian University students’ health seeking behaviour in order to identify their preferred health care services and rationale for their choice, and the barriers to the University’s health system. A cross-sectional and mixed design was applied. Data was collected with a questionnaire administered to a sample of 424 Uganda Christian University students in April 2015. Quantitative data was analysed with SPSS 16. Qualitative data was analysed by content analysis. Most students came from urban (51%) or peri-urban (23.4%) homes and had parents or guardians with post-secondary school education (80%). Most of the students used the university’s Allan Galpin Health Centre (78%) when in need of health care but given choice, they would prefer other health facilities, especially those nearest. The most frequent reason for choice was convenience. The females perceived their state of health differently from the males (p-value 0.03) and they had more unmet health needs. Barriers include unavailability of needed services, long queues, poor customer care, lack of trust in the service, waiting to see if the health problem would resolve and lack of relevant information. The findings are similar to those from studies done in similar contexts. Key influencers of health seeking behaviour were convenience and gender. Unavailability of needed services and customer care issues were barriers to the University health services.
Investigation of the Practices, Legislation, Supply Chain, and Regulation of Opioids for Clinical Pain Management in Southern Africa: A Multi-sectoral, Cross-National, Mixed Methods Study
(Elsevier, 2018-03-03) Namisango, Eve; Allsop, Mathew; Powell, Richard A.; Friedrichsdorf, Stefan J.; Luyiraka, Emmanuel B.K.; Kiyange, Fatiya; Mukooza, Edward Kibikyo; Ntege, Chris; Garanganga, Eunice; Ginindza-Mdluli, Mavis Ntombifuthi; Mwangi-Powell, Faith; Mondlane, Lidia Justino; Harding, Richard
Sub-Saharan Africa faces an increasing incidence and prevalence of life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. These conditions are associated with a significant burden of pain linked to high morbidity and disability that is poorly assessed and undertreated. Barriers to effective pain management partly relate to lack of access to opioid analgesia and challenges in their administration. To identify country-specific and broader regional barriers to access, as well as the administration of opioids, and generate recommendations for advancing pain management in Southern Africa. A parallel mixed methods design was used across three countries: Mozambique, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe. Three activities were undertaken: 1) a review of regulatory and policy documentation, 2) group interviews, and 3) a self-administered key informant survey. Barriers to accessing opioid analgesics for medical use include overly restrictive controlled medicines’ laws; use of stigmatizing language in key documents; inaccurate actual opioid consumption estimation practices; knowledge gaps in the distribution, storage, and prescription of opioids; critical shortage of prescribers; and high out-of-pocket financial expenditures for patients against a backdrop of high levels of poverty. Policies and relevant laws should be updated to ensure that the legislative environment supports opioid access for pain management. Action plans for improving pain treatment for patients suffering from HIV or non-communicable diseases should address barriers at the different levels of the supply chain that involve policymakers, administrators, and service providers. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018;55:851e863. 2017 American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.

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