Digital Commons Network^™

Dental Caries In Children With Sickle Cell Disease And Its Association With The Use Of Hydroxyurea And Penicillin Prophylaxis In Dar Es Salaam, Irene Kida Minja, Evarist Mulyahela Wilson, Ferdinand M. Machibya, Agnes Jonathan, Fortunata Cornel, Paschal Ruggajo, Julie Makani, Ferdinand M. Machibya

Internal Medicine, East Africa

Purpose.

This comparative study sets out to report dental caries status among individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (HbSS) against those with sickle cell trait (HbSA) and those without the disease (HbAA) as controls. The study further assessed the impact of penicillin chemoprophylaxis and hydroxyurea use on dental caries among Sickle Cell Disease participants.

Methods.

This was a comparative cross-sectional study in which 93 children aged 30 to 60 months were recruited. There were 60 participating children who had SCD (HbSS), 17 with SCD trait (HbAS) and 16 were without SCD or SC trait (HbAA). A questionnaire was used to record …

National Non-Communicable Diseases Conferences- A Platform To Inform Policies And Practices In Tanzania, Davis E. Amani, Harrieth P. Ndumwa, Jackline E. Ngowi, Belinda J. Njiro, Castory Munishi, Erick A. Mboya, Doreen Mloka, Amani I. Kikula, Emmanuel Balandya, Paschal Ruggajo

Internal Medicine, East Africa

Background:

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) arise from diverse risk factors with differences in the contexts and variabilities in regions and countries. Addressing such a complex challenge requires local evidence. Tanzania has been convening stakeholders every year to disseminate and discuss scientific evidence, policies, and implementation gaps, to inform policy makers in NCDs responses. This paper documents these dissemination efforts and how they have influenced NCDs response and landscape in Tanzania and the region.

Methods:

Desk review was conducted through available MOH and conference organizers’ documents. It had both quantitative and qualitative data. The review included reports of the four NCDs conferences, …

Abdominal Wall Endometriosis In Cesarean Scar: A Case Report, Willbroad Kyejo, Brenda Moshi, Euphraim Massanga, Gregory Ntiyakunze, Miriam Mgonja, Munawar Kaguta, Ernest Mdachi

Obstetrics and Gynaecology, East Africa

Abdominal wall endometriosis refers to the presence of endometrial tissue within surgical scars, most commonly occurring following gynecological procedures such as cesarean sections. This case report presents a rare case of abdominal wall endometriosis in a cesarean scar. The patient, a 32-year-old woman with a history of two previous cesarean sections, presented with cyclic pain and swelling in the lower abdominal region. Physical examination revealed a tender, well-defined mass within the cesarean scar. Surgical excision of the mass was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed the presence of endometrial tissue. This case highlights the importance of considering abdominal wall endometriosis in …

Research Nexus : Volume 10 - 2024, Office Of Research And Graduate Studies

Office of Research and Graduate Studies

• Insight into Research at AKU by the Global Office of Research and Graduate Studies
• Researcher Spotlight: Dr Zul Merali, Director Brain & Mind Institute
• Capacity Building Initiatives: Quest for Research Questions (QRQ) Sparks in Emergency Medicine
• Inaugural Series of Research Training and Development Kicks-off in Pakistan
• Research Milestones & News: NEST360 Phase 2: AKU’s Pioneering Efforts in Combatting Newborn Mortality in Kenya
• Team Feature: New Joiners at the Office of Research & Graduate Studies
• Bidding Farewell

Lissencephaly With Subcortical Band Heterotopia In An East African Child: A Case Report, Elisamia Ngowi, Adil Datoo, Pilly Ally, Hajaj Salum, Kija Edward

Paediatrics and Child Health, East Africa

Lissencephaly is a rare neuronal migration defect that results in a smooth cerebral surface, mental retardation, and seizures. It is diagnosed primarily by correlating clinical manifestations with MRI findings. We present a case of a 3-year-old girl with developmental delay and seizures. Her first seizure was at 14 months and MRI showed features of lissencephaly and subcortical band heterotopia. Lissencephaly is associated with gene mutations. Treatment focuses on antiseizure meds and physiotherapy to reduce seizures and improve motor skills. This case report highlights the importance of promptly diagnosing the LIS/SBH spectrum to enhance patient outcomes. Timely identification and treatment, such …

Inequalities In Use Of Hospitals For Childbirth Among Rural Women In Sub-Saharan Africa: A Comparative Analysis Of 18 Countries Using Demographic And Health Survey Data., Manuela Straneo, Claudia Hanson, Thomas Van Den Akker, Bosede Afolabi, Anteneh Asefa, Alexandre Delamou, Mardieh Dennis, Luis Gadama, Nyika Mahachi, Welcome Mlilo

Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health

Introduction; Rising facility births in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) mask inequalities in higher-level emergency care— typically in hospitals. Limited research has addressed hospital use in women at risk of or with complications, such as high parity, linked to poverty and rurality, for whom hospital care is essential. We aimed to address this gap, by comparatively assessing hospital use in rural SSA by wealth and parity.

Methods; Countries in SSA with a Demographic and Health Survey since 2015 were included. We assessed rural hospital childbirth stratifying by wealth (wealthier/poorer) and parity (nulliparity/high parity≥5), and their combination. We computed percentages, 95% CIs and …

Clinical Characteristics And Outcomes Of Patients With Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension In East Africa: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study, Zian Muikamba

Master of Internal Medicine

Introduction; Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a neurological condition characterized by elevated intracranial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure without demonstratable evident causes. The mechanisms leading to a particular predilection for women of childbearing age who are overweight and obese or who have recent rapid weight changes remain imprecisely described. The Modified Dandy criteria is used for diagnosis and includes-clinical symptoms, papilledema, lumbar puncture (LP) opening pressure, and neuroimaging. If undiagnosed, it can progress to disabling irreversible visual loss. Weight loss is useful in addition to medical therapy in treating the condition. Data in Sub-Saharan Africa is scarce.

Methods; This study described …

Mandatory Second Opinion To Reduce Caesarean Section Rate Among Low-Risk Pregnant Women At A Private Tertiary Hospital: An Analysis Using Who Robson Classification., Gregory Ntiyakunze

Master of Obstetrics and Gynecology

v> The caesarean section rate has increased globally, even among low-risk obstetric deliveries. Consequently, mothers and babies are exposed to potential complications associated with caesarean sections. Therefore, the World Health Organization has introduced measures to reduce unnecessary caesarean sections, including a globally accepted classification system for all deliveries Robson's system and recommended safe non-medical interventions, such as mandatory second opinions prior to caesarean sections

Knowledge And Perception Of Hand Hygiene And Associated Factors Among Final Year Medical And Nursing Students In Dar Es Salaam Tanzania, Anthony Baltazary Ngowi

Master of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hand hygiene, when practiced correctly and consistently is a simple and effective

method to prevent healthcare associated infections. These infections are acquired during a patients’ hospital stay and pose a major worldwide public health problem. The knowledge and practices related to hand hygiene among health workers need to be instilled early on during their training to develop a culture of correct and consistent practice. Existing literature has explored hand hygiene among health workers but very few studies have looked at it amongst medical and nursing students, who are the healthcare workers of tomorrow. This study aimed to assess hand hygiene …

Challenges In Post Graduate General Surgery Training In Tanzania: A Trainee’S Perspective, Shabbir Adamjee

Master of Surgery

v>

General Surgery residency training is a complex vigorous program which includes long working hours and complex surgical cases, in order to develop and attain the knowledge and the skills the trainee needs by the end of the program. Worldwide, general surgery programs have high attrition rates and residents have identified challenges which may be work related, related to social wellbeing and/or the residency program structure. Tanzania has public and private institutions providing general surgery residency training and although most have a quality assessment program the data is not readily available. Each institution has its personalized curriculum with its unique …

Microbial Profile And Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns Of Surgical Intra-Abdominal Infections At A Tertiary Hospital In Tanzania A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study, Abduel Julius Kitua

Master of Surgery

v>

Among infections of surgical importance, intra-abdominal infections prevail among the most common in surgical patients with considerable morbidity and mortality. The ever-rising microbial resistance to commonly available antibiotics and geographical variations in microbial profile and resistance patterns poses a challenge to the management of these surgical infections of abdominal origin. The aim of this study was to evaluate microbiological characteristics and antibiotic susceptibility of isolates from intra-abdominal infections at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania and how these influence early treatment outcomes.

Exploring The Integration Of Neuroeducation Principles In Teaching Mathematics In Selected Secondary Schools In Iringa Municipality, Tanzania., Emmanuel Kahise

Master of Education

This research explored the integration of neuroeducation principles in the mathematics curriculum of secondary educational institutions in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania, driven by the goal of enhancing learning outcomes and refining instructional strategies. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the study examined teachers' perspectives, the actual implementation of neuroeducation concepts in classrooms, and the challenges encountered during integration. Through observations of form one and form three classes and interviews with three mathematics teachers, inconsistencies between claimed understanding and actual practices were identified. To address issues such as a lack of instructional resources, restricted technology access, and limited professional growth opportunities, specific …

Integrating Digital Literacy Skills Into Chemistry Assessment In Secondary Schools: A Case Study Of Lindi Municipal, Tanzania, Francis Gaspar Sasu

Master of Education

In an era dominated by technology, the demand for digital literacy skills is ever-growing. As technology continues to shape our lives, the need for proficiency in digital literacy extends beyond mere usage, becoming crucial in both learning and assessment contexts. This study addresses the need to bridge the gap between traditional assessment practices and the demand for digital literacy skills in 21st-century education contexts, with a focus on secondary school chemistry assessments in Lindi Municipal, Tanzania.The study enlisted a qualitative approach and case study design in which four secondary schools within Lindi municipal were involved. It utilized diverse data collection …

Exploring The Contribution Of Multimedia Resource Integration On Learner Engagement In Teaching And Learning Of Integrated Science In A Primary School In Arua City -Uganda, Sebbi Sadadi Okumu

Master of Education

The integration of multimedia resources in primary school classrooms has become essential in the twenty-first century, given the huge potential of information and communication technology (ICT). This qualitative case study aimed to explore the contribution of multimedia resource integration on learner engagement in the teaching and learning of integrated science in a primary school in Arua City, Uganda.

The primary research question addressed the contribution of multimedia integration to learner engagement in integrated science instruction. Additionally, subsidiary inquiries explored into the types of multimedia resources employed, learner responses to their utilization, teachers' perceptions, and the relationship between teachers' perceptions and …

Towards Unleashing The Potential Of Ai In Education; Exploring Educators' Perceptions And Practices In Tanzania (The Case Study Of Two Districts In Coastal Region, Tanzania)., Luciana Marwa Hanson

Master of Education

As AI adoption in education progresses globally, understanding educators' viewpoints is crucial for effective integration in specific contexts like Tanzania. This study was an exploration of the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, focusing on the Tanzanian context. It aimed to understand educators' perceptions and practices regarding AI integration in education. The research objectives include exploring the potential benefits and challenges of AI integration, as well as understanding educators' attitudes and intentions toward AI adoption. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model, the study utilized a qualitative case study approach involving interviews, FGDS, and observations with 10 students, 10 educators …

Teachers’ Assessment Practices In An Inclusive Refugee Setting: An Exploration Of How It Influences The Learning Of Learners With Disabilities., Julius Odongo Mireri

Master of Education

Assessments play a pivotal role in determining learning outcomes and educational experiences for refugee learners with disabilities (RLWD). However, their circumstances present unique challenges to traditional assessment practices. This study explored how teachers' assessment approaches influence learning for RLWD enrolled in an inclusive refugee school in Kakuma Kenya. The objectives were to examine how assessments are adapted to meet diverse learner needs, investigate how the refugee context shapes assessment practices, determine how assessments influence learning, and identify challenges faced in assessment. A qualitative case study design was employed. Data collection methods included individual interviews with 8 teachers and the head …

Factors Associated With Antiretroviral Drug Resistance Mutations Among Plhiv Failing To Achieve Virological Suppression On Second Line Treatment In Tanzania., Mabula M. Mabelele

Master of Internal Medicine

v> Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is a major public health problem affecting an estimated 38.4 million people globally, with the (54%) of them being from the Eastern and Southern African regions. Despite progress in the availability of multiple classes of antiretroviral drugs and early initiation of treatment with cART, many patients still fail therapy in the first and second-line regimens due to drug resistance driven by continuous acquisition of drug resistance mutation (DRMs). DRMs are high among adults failing treatment regimens, ranging between 50-97%.

Investigating The Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Teaching And Learning Communication Skills- Action Research In A Teachers’ College In Kigoma Region., Gerald Simon Russine

Master of Education

This study investigated the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and learning communication skills at a teachers' college in Kigoma, Tanzania. An action research methodology was used to gain insights from tutors and student teachers. In the reconnaissance stage, observations and a pre-test revealed lack of AI integration and below-average searching skills. The intervention involved introducing ChatGPT, an AI assistant, to augment instruction. Over eight sessions, tutors and students used ChatGPT for asking questions, finding contents for teaching and learning, and facilitating several classroom discussions. The overall perceptions from the tutors and student teachers were positive, noting increased accessibility, …

Integration Of Artificial Intelligence In Physics Teaching, Learning, And Assessment In A Public Secondary School In Rachuonyo East Sub-County- Kenya: Action Research., Edwin Okumu Ogalo

Master of Education

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings is becoming increasingly prevalent globally. Despite the Kenyan government's efforts to strengthen performance in STEM subjects like physics, significant strides have yet to be achieved. Consequently, there is a pressing need to explore the utilization of AI, particularly ChatGPT, as a pedagogical tool to elevate physics education in Kenyan secondary schools. This study aimed to explore how ChatGPT can be utilized as a pedagogical tool to improve physics education within Kenyan secondary schools. Employing a qualitative approach with an action research design, the study comprised reconnaissance, intervention, and post-intervention phases conducted …

Examining The Role Of Secondary School Leaders In Promoting Students' Achievement In Igunga District., Ambrose Albogast

Master of Education

Effective school leadership plays a pivotal role in creating an environment conducive to academic success. However, research on context-specific leadership strategies employed by secondary school leaders in Igunga district to promote student achievement is limited. This qualitative case study aimed to address this gap by examining the role of secondary school leaders in promoting student achievement in Igunga district, Tanzania - a rural context facing academic challenges. Data was collected through interviews, focus groups, document analysis, and observations from three schools, involving school leaders, teachers, and students. Key findings pertained to prevalent leadership styles employed, such as transformational, distributed, and …

Digital Technology Integration For Enhancing Physics Teachers’ Pedagogy In A Selected Secondary School, In Terego District, Uganda., Adrabo Atiku Robert

Master of Education

This dissertation aimed at investigating the transformative impact of digital technology integration on the pedagogical practices of physics teachers in a secondary school context within Terego District, Uganda. A mixed-methods research approach, combining participatory action research methods and quantitative techniques was used. The main research question was: How can the integration of digital technology enhance physics teachers' pedagogy in a secondary school within Terego District, Uganda?

Research tools employed in this study included interviews, lesson observations, document analysis, and intervention workshops. Additionally, pre and post-tests were utilized to quantitatively measure the impact of digital technology integration on student learning outcomes, …

Exploring Junior Secondary School Teachers’ Experiences In Teaching Subjects Outside Their Subjects Specialization - A Case Study Of Selected Schools In Chonyi Sub-County, Kilifi- Kenya., Caleb Kaleli Kisangau

Master of Education

This study explored the experiences of junior secondary school teachers teaching subjects beyond their areas of specialization in Kilifi County, Kenya. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected from five teachers and three headteachers across three schools through interviews, observation, and document analysis. The findings revealed several challenges faced by teachers, including limited content knowledge, lack of experienced mentors, and insufficient pedagogical training. As a result, teachers struggled to effectively teach unfamiliar subjects, often resorting to superficial teaching. This negatively impacted the quality of education provided to students. Despite the difficulties, teachers devised adaptive strategies such as using …

Exploring The Discretion Of Principals In The Implementation Of Language Policy: A Case Of French In Secondary Schools In Kakamega County, Kenya., Samson Oduor Otieno

Master of Education

Principals, as street-level bureaucrats, play a monumental role in shaping policy outcomes through the interpretation and operationalization of policies in schools. They have substantial discretion to modify policies thereby being ‘policymakers.’ The present study explored the discretion of principals in implementing the language policy regarding French in secondary schools in Kenya. A qualitative case study approach was used to examine the principals’ understanding of the language policy in Kenya, the discretion that principals have in policy implementation, and the effects of these discretionary powers in two purposively selected secondary schools in Fierte County, one with a principal trained in French …

Exploring The Integration Of Neuroeducation Principles In Teaching Mathematics In Selected Secondary Schools In Iringa Municipality, Tanzania., Emmanuel Jonathan Kahise

Master of Education

This research explored the integration of neuroeducation principles in the mathematics curriculum of secondary educational institutions in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania, driven by the goal of enhancing learning outcomes and refining instructional strategies. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the study examined teachers' perspectives, the actual implementation of neuroeducation concepts in classrooms, and the challenges encountered during integration. Through observations of form one and form three classes and interviews with three mathematics teachers, inconsistencies between claimed understanding and actual practices were identified. To address issues such as a lack of instructional resources, restricted technology access, and limited professional growth opportunities, specific …

Key Performance Indicators In Tanzanian Education: Educational Leaders' Perspectives., Johnberry Daniel Manyonyi

Master of Education

Globally, educational institutions increasingly rely on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress, foster accountability, and improve outcomes. Although successful implementation requires understanding prevailing perspectives and addressing implementation challenges, not much study has been conducted on leaders' perspectives on KPIs and practical challenges associated with establishing them, particularly in the setting of developing nations. To fill this gap, this study explored the attitudes and experiences of educational leaders in Moshi Municipality, Tanzania, about KPIs and the factors enabling or hindering their adoption. This study employed a mixed methods approach, incorporating a questionnaire administered to fifty-two educational administrators and a focus …

Unveiling Gender In Competency-Based Formative Assessment: A Focus On Homework Assignments As A Tool Of Assessment For Learning In A Public Junior Secondary School In Taita-Taveta County, Kenya, John Habwe

Master of Education

This qualitative case study explored how gender influences competency-based formative assessment, specifically focusing on the use of homework assignments. The research was conducted at a public junior secondary school in Kenya using interviews, a focus group discussion, document analysis, and observations. 20 students, 4 teachers, and 4 parents obtained through purposive sampling technique participated in data collection. Data that was obtained from the interviews and FGD audiotaped files were transcribed in the field concurrently with data collection, hence continuous and timely analysis allowed the researcher to carefully do a word-for-word transcription of the audiotaped data after which transcripts were critically …

Exploring Factors Influencing Students’ Decision To Pursue Science Specializations: A Study At One Of Public Mixed Secondary Schools In Temeke Municipality-Dar Es Salaam., Samson Masawa

Master of Education

This research investigates the factors influencing students' decisions to pursue science specializations, addressing the pressing issue of declining interest in sciencerelated careers. There is a world-worrying trend in students’ declining interest in sciencerelated occupations, hence the need to understand the factors influencing students' motivations to pursue science. The research employed a quantitative approach with a survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to science teachers, Form Three students choosing science and non-science specializations, and Form Five students committed to study science, and the study was guided by Goal Oriented Theory. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social …

Investigating The Contribution Of Headteachers In Addressing Gender Equality In Primary Schools In Koboko District, (Uganda)., Munduga Mario Aruku

Master of Education

This dissertation investigated the role of headteachers in promoting gender equality within primary schools, focusing on the context of Koboko District, Uganda. The study addressed the background and context of gender inequality significant in education, formulated research questions, and delineated study objectives to explore headteachers' contributions comprehensively.

The study aimed to analyze the structural measures and initiatives implemented by headteachers to address and promote gender equality within primary schools in Koboko District, Uganda, identify and assess the challenges they face in these endeavours, focusing on specific barriers and constraints, and examine the strategies utilized by headteachers to actively promote gender …

The Implementation Of Research Findings For Lis Professional Practices In Selected Academic Libraries In Sub-Saharan Africa, Jackline Estomihi Kiwelu, Justina E. Ogbonna, Gadiel Ketto

Book Chapters / Conference Papers

Implementing research findings influences professional growth, provides evidence, and improves practice. Time and money go to waste if research findings are not adequately used. This study was set to understand how LIS Masters and PhDs research findings influence professional practices in academic libraries. The qualitative study used an online semi-structured interview to collect data from twelve (12) selected academic libraries in the Sub Sahara, Africa. Data was analysed thematically. The participants of this study attest that research findings from Master’s and PhD students are integrated into activities and provide evidence for decision-making. However, no precise mechanism supported the implementation of …

The Relevance Of Journalism Schools In Producing Talent For A Converged Newsroom: A Case Of Uganda, Arthur Oyako

Master of Arts in Digital Journalism

While journalism training schools play a crucial role in equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the media industry, the rapid advances in media technology raised concerns about the training needs and skills and whether J-schools were equipping graduates with the requisite skills for the converged newsrooms. The rapid evolution of digital technologies transformed traditional newsrooms into converged newsrooms, where journalists are expected to produce content for multiple platforms, including print, broadcast, and digital media. This shift has created a demand for journalists with diverse skills, including writing, reporting, editing, video production, social media management, and …