Department of Chemistry

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Novel and legacy per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances in major wastewater treatment plants within the Lake Victoria basin, East Africa.
(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Miiro, Ashirafu; Mubiru, Edward; Odume, Oghenekaro Nelson; Odongo, Silver; Nyakairu, George William; Matovu, Henry; Kato, Charles Drago; Spanik, Ivan; Sillanpää, Mika; Sifuna, Douglas; Khvalbota, Liudmyla; Ssebugere, Patrick
Over the past two decades, rapid urbanization and industrialization in Uganda have generated wastewater containing emerging contaminants including per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). This study assessed PFASs contamination of wastewater from Bugolobi (Kampala) and Kirinya (Jinja) wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) by analyzing 80 influent and effluent samples for 15 PFASs using LC-MS/MS. We quantified 10 PFASs, with levels ranging from non-detectable (n.d) up to 372.4 ng/L (mean: 20.94 ± 0.42 ng/L). At Bugolobi WWTP, influent levels ranged from n.d to 190.01 ng/L (60.85 ± 1.03 ng/L) while effluents varied from n.d to 372.4 ng/L (237.91 ± 7.06 ng/L). At Kirinya WWTP, influent levels ranged from n.d to 29.37 ng/L (17.58 ± 3.54 ng/L) and effluents up to 30.21 ng/L (7.79 ± 0.85 ng/L). Short-chain PFASs (PFBS, PFBA) were more predominant, suggesting their possible use or degradation of the long-chain PFASs. Total mass loadings were higher at Bugolobi WWTP (5353.56 mg/day), serving the more densely populated Kampala, than at Kirinya WWTP (93.62 mg/day). PFSAs exhibited higher removal (72.45 % Bugolobi; 36.45 % Kirinya) than PFCAs (− 127.38 % Bugolobi; − 20.50 % Kirinya), which could be attributed to their stronger hydrophobic adsorption and partial biodegradation. Bugolobi, with ⁓82.59 % total removal, outperformed Kirinya (~25.19 %) due to its advanced conventional treatment. Ecological risk assessment revealed higher risks at lower trophic levels at Bugolobi compared to Kirinya, likely due to lower influx and partial mitigation by its pond-based system. These findings highlight the role of WWTPs as critical point sources of PFASs, posing ecological risks to aquatic ecosystems. Keywords: Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, Wastewater treatment plants, Mass loadings, Ecological risks, Lake victoria
Students’ perceptions of physical magnetic models and immersive virtual reality for chemistry learning.
(Taylor & Francis, 2025) Ungu, Dewi Ayu Kencana; Won, Mihye; Matovu, Henry; Hernandez-Alvarado, Ricardo Bruno; Treagust, David F.; Mocerino, Mauro; Tasker, Roy; Tsai, Chin-Chung
Physical magnetic models and immersive virtual reality (iVR) both support students’ grasp of abstract chemistry concepts, yet the distinct affordances of each remain underexplored. In this qualitative study, forty undergraduate chemistry students (twenty pairs) completed learning activities on hydrogen bonds using both magnetic models and iVR. Pre/post semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analysed using a cross-case thematic analysis, beginning with inductive coding and followed by deductive mapping to existing literature. Four themes emerged – visualisation, interactivity, narrative (task design), and social features – highlighting the features of magnetic models and iVR that shape students’ learning experiences. Students reported that the magnetic model activity supported tactile exploration that helped them understand basic molecular concepts like attraction and repulsion. While it offers opportunities to test hypotheses, the magnetic model activity felt individualistic. In contrast, students saw iVR as a collaborative environment where complex tasks, advanced 3D visualisation, and interactivity deepened their understanding of hydrogen bonds. These findings highlight students’ distinct perceptions of each tool – magnetic models are effective for tactile, individual explorations, and iVR is valuable for collaboration, problem-solving, and visualising complex structures. Educators should leverage these differing affordances when designing learning experiences to support students’ understanding of scientific concepts. KEYWORDS: Immersive virtual reality (iVR), students’ perceptions, molecular visualization, physical molecular models
Legacy and emerging organic pollutants in indoor and outdoor environments in Africa : contamination levels, health risks, and analytical techniques.
(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Muhwezi, Godfrey; Kyarimpa, Christine; Gumula, Ivan; Nagawa, Christine Betty; Omwoma, Solomon; Matovu, Henry; Matsiko, Julius; Odongo, Silver; Sifuna, Douglas; Spanik, Ivan; Kato, Charles Drago; Ssebugere, Patrick
The World Health Organisation reported that over 20 % of the global disease burden and deaths are caused by environmental factors such as air and dust pollution. Legacy organic pollutants (LOPs) and emerging organic pollutants (EOPs) are among the biggest contributors to this burden. Herein we reviewed literature published for the period 2000e2023 on selected LOPs and EOPs in indoor dust and outdoor air in Africa to understand the occurrence, associated human health risks and common analytical techniques used to identify and quantify these contaminants. The findings revealed generally lower contamination levels for most pollutants than that in most regions outside Africa except for PCBs in outdoor air and OCPs in indoor settled dust. Apart from a few studies for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), most studies reported hazard index (HI) values less than 1 for outdoor air and indoor dust exposure, which suggested negligible non-carcinogenic risks in children and adults. Gas Chromatography and mass spectrometry were the most frequently used analytical techniques for both air and dust probably due to their sensitivity and selectivity in detecting chemical traces at the pg m 3 and ng g 1 levels. Although the current contamination levels are generally low, their synergistic and cumulative effects may in the long run affect the environment and human health. There is also a paucity of data on most contaminants, especially for PCNs, and PFASs in both outdoor air and dust. Coordinated efforts are needed to limit the trade, importation, and disposal of products containing LOPs and EOPs in Africa.
Electronic wastes in sub-Saharan Africa : a critical review of environmental and health impacts, regulatory responses, and future perspectives.
(Elsevier Inc., 2025) Ssebugere, Patrick; Miiro, Ashirafu; Matovu, Henry; Odongo, Silver; Kato, Charles Drago; Babirye, Prudence Mary; Nabuuma, Josephine; Sillanpaa¨, Mika; Sifuna, Douglas; Nyakairu, George William
Recent technological advancements coupled with lax policy regulations have caused increased electronic waste (e-waste) burden in the Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), thereby exacerbating the environmental signatures of hazardous substances including contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and toxic metals such as lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), among others. This review synthesized 62 studies published between 2008 and 2025 to assess the environmental and health risks associated with e-waste disposal in SSA. Pb, Hg, Cd, and brominated flame retardants were the most detected hazardous substances. Near e-waste sites, Pb levels in soil ranged from 120 to 14,000 mg/kg, while Cd reached 6.8 mg/kg in topsoil. Water contamination by Hg near informal processing sites ranged from 0.3 to 2.8 µg/L, exceeding the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) safety thresholds. Air pollution from open burning releases polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (400–1800 ng/m3), dioxins (3.5–19.2 ng/m3), and volatile metals, worsening the environmental health crisis. Informal recycling practices were the primary source of these pollutants, exposing workers and nearby communities to these toxic substances. This review highlighted significantly elevated health risks, with widespread exceedance of safety thresholds (e.g., blood Pb levels up to 309 µg/dL, compared to CDC reference: 5 µg/dL; Cd up to 8.5 µg/L), leading to cognitive deficits, neurological damage, cancer, and respiratory and reproductive disorders, particularly for the vulnerable populations. Observed trends, gaps in recycling infrastructure and policy underscore the urgent need for improved legislation, formal recycling systems, and public awareness to mitigate health risks in the SSA. Keywords: E-waste, Sub-Saharan Africa, EDCs, Heavy metals, Recycling, Exposure
Antibiotic susceptibility of zoonotic bacteria isolated from oral cavities of indigenous dogs from semi-urban areas in Uganda.
(Wiley, 2024) Mukasa, Paul; Ogwang, Patrick Engeu; Owor, Richard Oriko; Lejju, Julius B.; Gumisiriza, Hannington; Ntulume, Ibrahim; Adaku, Christopher
Dog bites are a source of zoonotic infections to humans, such as pasteurellosis and meningitis. Zoonotic bacterial identification and their antibiotic susceptibility assessment are key towards the successful management of such infections. This study isolated and identified zoonotic bacterial species from the oral cavities of indigenous dogs and also determined their antibiotic susceptibility profile. Oral swab samples collected from 54 indigenous dogs (domestic [36] and stray [18]) were cultured on agar media, and then on selective-differential media. The colony morphology and conventional biochemical tests were used to identify the bacterial isolates. Antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. A total of 232 bacterial isolates were obtained, from which 29 bacteria species (18 Gram-negative and 11 Gram-positive) belonging to 19 genera and 13 families were identified. Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria species constituted 69% and 31%, respectively. The most prevalent bacteria species was Staphylococcus aureus (10.8%) followed by Escherichia coli (9.5%), while Yersinia enterocolitica (0.4%) was the least common. Most bacteria species belonged to family Enterobacteriaceae (11) followed by Vibrionaceae (04). All the sampled dogs had a number of multi drug–resistant superbugs in their oral cavities. However, all the tested bacterial isolates were only susceptible to imipenem and chloramphenicol. All the identified bacteria species were resistant to metronidazole, amoxicillinclavulanic acid and ceftazidime. Therefore, antibiotics such as imipenem and chloramphenicol could be of better choice for managing dog bite infections compared to the antibiotics recommended by Uganda Clinical Guidelines, such as metronidazole and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Keywords: dog bites | oral cavities | susceptibility | zoonotic bacteria
Green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles for DSSC photoanode : a joint experimental and density functional theory study.
(IOP publishing, 2025) Balabye, Stephen; Mushebo, Emmanuel; Nasejje, Stella; Moses, Egor; Mukhokosi, Emma Panzi
Green synthesis, a biological method for nanoparticle preparation, has been suggested as a possible eco-friendly alternative to chemical and physical methods. In this study, we report on first principles calculations and the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs)from Erythrina abyssinica stem bark extract calcined under different temperatures (300 – 700 °C) for application as a photoanode in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Synthesized ZnO NPs were subjected to characterization using x-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy, Ultraviolet–Visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence analysis. The analysis revealed that highly crystalline hexagonal ZnO NPs were formed at 700 °C,with the nanospheres agglomeration into non-uniform distinct NPs with a band gap energy of 3.12 eV. The DSSC exhibited a short circuit current density (Jsc) of 56 μA cm−2, open circuit voltage (Voc) of 161 mV, a fill factor of 0.265, and a power conversion efficiency of 0.0024% using 100 mWcm−2 illumination. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were performed on the structural, electronic, and dielectric properties of ZnO at the atomic level. The Projected Density of States (PDOS) analysis revealed that Zn-4s and O-2p orbitals contributed significantly to the conduction band minimum (CBM) and valence band maximum (VBM), respectively, and a direct band gap at Gamma in the electronic band structure. Dielectric function analysis revealed anisotropy in the refractive index and dielectric function, with noticeable transparency in the visible spectrum and strong absorption in the ultraviolet, making them potential candidates in a set of photoelectrochemical applications. Keywords: ZnO, DSSC, DFT, green synthesis
Phytochemical profile, antibacterial activity and acute toxicity of rhoicissus tridentata used to manage dog bites.
(Elsevier Ltd., 2025) Mukasa, Paul; Ogwang, Patrick Engeu; Adaku, Christopher; Andima, Moses; Obakiro, Samuel Baker; Lejju, Julius Bunny; Ntulume, Ibrahim; Byamugisha, Denis; Ntambi, Emmanuel; Ren, Yuhao; Owor, Richard Oriko
Dog bites often result into polymicrobial wound contamination, which pose several health risks including bacterial infections. In Uganda, Rhoicissus tridentata is traditionally used to manage dog bites, yet its secondary metabolite profile, antibacterial efficacy, and in-vivo toxicity had remained unexplored. Thus, the metabolites and the scientific evidence to validate the antibacterial activity and safety of the plant was limited. Identification of potent antibacterial agents could be crucial to manage dog-bite-related bacterial infections. The root extracts were analyzed using UHPLC–HRMS/MS—qTOF, followed by MZmine processing, and the metabolites characterized with GNPS Feature-Based Molecular Networking. For the first time, the high-resolution metabolomic approach resulted into annotation of 15 bioactive polyphenols like flavonoids, tannins. The antibacterial activity of the extracts was evaluated against standard strains of the zoonotic oral bacteria commonly associated with dog bites, namely: Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29,212), Streptococcus aureus (ATCC 25,932), Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 25,175), Proteus mirabilis (ATCC 25,933), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 700,603), and Escherichia coli (ATCC 25,922). The extracts exhibited moderate antibacterial activity against all the strains. The MIC and MBC ranged from (0.78 to 6.25) and (1.56 to 12.5) mg/mL respectively. The MBC/MIC ratios were between 1.9 and 2, signifying bactericidal extracts. In vivo acute toxicity testing, the extract showed no adverse signs of toxicity at doses up to 5000 mg/kg (LD50 > 5000 mg/kg), suggesting a favorable safety margin. These findings support the ethnopharmacological use of R. tridentata in managing dog bite-related bacterial infections and merit further investigations on its bioactive constituents identified for future antibacterial discovery Keywords: Rhoicissus tridentata, Phytochemicals, Antibacterial compounds, Toxicity
In vitro antiplasmodial activity, acute toxicity and phytochemical quantification of selected medicinal plants used in symptomatic management of malaria in eastern Uganda.
(Elsevier Ltd., 2025) Obakiroa, Samuel Baker; Nabitandikwa, Catherine; Kiyimba, Kenedy; Ocan, Moses; Gavamukulya, Yahaya; Andima, Moses; Lukwago, Tonny Wotoyitide; Maseruka, Richard; Mercy, Chebijira; Opio, Moses; Hokello, Joseph; Kibuule, Dan; Nabatanzi, Alice; Orenah, Stephen; Waako, Paul; Owor, Oriko Richard
Ethnopharmacological relevance: The emergence of artemisinin resistance alongside limited antimalarial access in Uganda has intensified the use of herbal medicines as complementary and alternative therapies. Whereas there is widespread indigenous use of Zanthoxylum chalybeum, Albizia coriaria, Entada abyssinica, Maytenus senegalensis, and Kigelia Africana in treatment of malaria, there was limited scientific evidence of efficacy and safety. Aim of the study: This study assessed the in vitro antiplasmodial activity, acute toxicity, and phytochemical composition of the five plants so as to identify alternative sources of antimalarial drugs. Materials and methods: Phytochemical screening and quantification was conducted on ethanolic extracts from dried samples using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The acute toxicity testing was conducted in Wistar albino rats using limit dose test and the antiplasmodial efficacy evaluated using a 72-hour SYBR Green assay on Plasmodium falciparum laboratory and clinical isolates. Results: Alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids were present in all the samples. Z. chalybeum was the most potent, with IC50 values as low as 0.90 and 1.54 µg/ml against both chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and resistant (Dd2) strains respectively. Albizia coriaria and Entada abyssinica also displayed moderate activity, with IC50s ranging from 30.26 to 101.26 µg/ml. Acute toxicity studies indicated that most extracts were relatively safe in Wistar albino rats, except for A. coriaria and M. senegalensis, which were moderately toxic with median lethal less than 2000mg/kg. Conclusion: Z. chalybeum, A. coriaria and E. abyssinica are promising medicinal plants for developing novel and effective antimalarial drugs, especially against drug-resistant strains that warrant more phytochemical and pharmacological studies. Keywords: Medicinal plants, Malaria, Antiplasmodial activity, Phytochemicals, Drug resistance
Phytochemical analysis and antifungal activity of Conyza sumatrensis root extract for management of ringworm infection.
(Busitema University, 2024) Walakila, Francis Weswa
Ringworm causing a red ring rash is a common fungal infection of human skin. It is caused by a group of fungi like Microsporum canls and Aspergillus niger which affect people of all ages and it is mainly managed by antifungal agents. However, the current antifungal drugs are becoming ineffective because of antifungal resistance and alternatives medications derived from medicinal plants are being considered. C. Sumantresis, a plant with a long history of traditional use in the management of ringworm was the focus of this study with the aim of profiling its phytochemical and antifungal properties for management of ringworm. Alcoholic root extract of C. Sumantresis was subjected to different phytochemical analysis to investigate active constituents present, quantified with different standards whose calibration curves were used to determine the concentration of specific metabolites in the extract. Fungal culture was performed on Aspergillus niger to determine the antifungal activity of the extract. The results indicated that the extract had higher alkaloids, moderate flavonoids and relatively low tannins and phenols. Antifungal activity showed total inhibition of fungal growth at the concentration of 7mg/ml of the extract reflecting therapeutic properties of the extract. The findings of this study suggest that C. Sumantresis is a promising natural resource for the development of antifungal medications and warrant further investigation.
Hydrothermal Activation of Pineapple Peelings for the Adsorption and Kinetics of Methylene Blue Dye
(Busitema University, 2024) Tibenda, Christine
The unavailability of clean drinking water is one of the significant health issues in modern times. Industrial dyes are one of the dominant chemicals that make water unfit for drinking. Among these dyes, methylene blue (MB) is toxic, carcinogenic, and non-biodegradable and can cause a severe threat to human health and environmental safety. It is usually released in natural water sources from effluents of mainly textile industries, hospitals and others which becomes a health threat to human beings and living organisms hence, there is a need to develop an environmentally friendly, efficient technology for removing MB from wastewater. This study was aimed at developing an inexpensive and effective adsorbent for removing MB from waste water to the safety limit of at most 5 mk/kg where the toxicity of methylene blue dye can induce fatal serotonin toxicity in humans. Pineapple peelings obtained from Nagongera market, Tororo district were hydrothermally activated in an autoclave reactor using potassium hydroxide as the modifier to form the hydrochar (HAPPC) and effectiveness in adsorbing MB was confirmed by batch adsorption studies. The adsorption data were analyzed by Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms and kinetic models. The adsorption on the HAPPC obeyed the pseudo second order kinetic model. The adsorption capacity HAPPC was studied with variation in size of adsorbent dose, size particles, pH, adsorbent dose and initial MB concentration. The extent of adsorption of MB by HAPPC adsorbent increased with increase in adsorbent dose, contact time and pH until an optimum value but decreased with the increase in particle size and initial MB concentration. In future, the potential HAPPC adsorbent can be used to design both industrial and household units for effective and economical MB removal.
Analysis of nagongera town council water and soil for microplastic contamination
(Busitema University, 2024) Ssemugenyi, Edison
Microplastics are small fragments of plastics of size less than 5 mm. They generally breakdown from plastic materials such as polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, and others due to different factors like abrasion, high temperatures and high pressure. Microplastics have detrimental effects when humans are exposed to them, these include; breast cancer, prostate cancer, organ dysfunctioning, inflammation, miscarriage and others. This research was aimed at analyzing and comparing the level of microplastic contamination in the different water sources utilized by the residents of Nagongera town council and the different soil samples of Nagongera town council. Therefore, it could serve to sensitize the residents about the dangers of improper disposal of plastic wastes and also recommend on the best water sources suitable for human consumption that is those with the least level of microplastic contamination. The analysis of microplastics was done using FT-IR spectroscopy where the spectra were compared with the standard spectra of microplastics.
Green synthesis of sulfur nanoparticles using aqueous garlic extract.
(Busitema University, 2023) Wabwire, Samson
The Sulfur Nanoparticles were prepared using aqueous Garlic extract by green synthesis method. The formation of Sulfur Nanoparticles enhanced a wavelength of 223nm when characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The basic goal of green Nanoparticle synthesis was to make use of the element's specific physicochemical and biological properties since it was harmless to the environment.
The use of different plant pigments from flowers and fruits as acid-base titration indicators
(Busitema University, 2024) Opolot, Henry Joseph
This study aimed to determine the pKa values of plant pigments extracted from selected fruits and flowers and evaluate their suitability as natural pH indicators in various acid-base titrations. The research involved extracting pigments from species such as Peacock flower, Mexican Sunflower, Cascabela, Spectabilis, Eggplant, Apple, Tomato, and Lantana, followed by their application in titrations involving NaOH vs. HCl, NaOH vs. CH₃COOH, NH4OH vs. HCl, and NH4OH vs. CH₃COOH. The pH of neutralization was determined for each titration, and the corresponding pKa values were calculated. The effectiveness of each pigment as an indicator was assessed based on the alignment of the pKa values with the pH at the point of neutralization and the clarity of the observed color changes. The results revealed that pigments from the Mexican Sunflower, Cascabela, and Apple were particularly effective as natural indicators, exhibiting clear color transitions such as brown to colorless and yellow to colorless, with pKa values closely matching the titration endpoints. In contrast, Lantana pigments were found unsuitable for all titrations due to significant discrepancies between their pKa values and the neutralization points, resulting in unclear color changes. The study highlights the potential of these natural pigments as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic indicators, especially in educational and environmentally conscious applications. Based on these findings, the study recommends further research into additional plant species to expand the pool of effective natural indicators and refine extraction methods to optimize yield and purity. The potential for wider application of these pigments in areas such as pH sensitive packaging, food, and cosmetics is also suggested. This research underscores the viability of using natural substances in chemical processes, contributing to more sustainable laboratory practices and offering valuable teaching tools in educational settings
A review on heavy metals contamination in some vegetables
(Busitema University, 2022) Oloka, Xaviour
Agricultural produce such as vegetables has been a primary source of food for many homes. Green vegetables in the diet provide the body with vital vitamins, minerals and fiber which are very essential for human growth. There are two categories of HM namely; essential HM and non-essential HM. Essential HM include Manganese, Zinc, Copper and Iron, all the essential metals play different key roles in human body for example Iron as a metal complex in the heme plays a key role in biding molecular oxygen in the lungs and transport it to other cells in the body, Manganese is responsible for metabolism of lipids and amino acids, Copper is responsible for making red blood cells and Zinc responsible for cell division. On the other hand, non-essential HM include; Cadmium, Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, Chromium and Nickel. Essential HM is required by the human body in small portion however, when it is concentration becomes high results into a number of diseases affecting the kidney, heart, brain and central nervous system. The human body get exposed mostly to heavy metals through consumption of vegetables contaminated with heavy metals. This has raised concern about the food security for good human health. Over use of fertilizers, mining, use of pesticides, use of waste water for irrigation of the vegetables mentioned but a few are some of sources of heavy metals. This reviews heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Pb and Ni) accumulation in vegetable crops (onions, green pepper, cucumber, potatoes and tomatoes) and their impact on human health. Key words: Bioaccumulation, Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), Heavy Metals (HM)
Assessment of nutrient pollutants in samples of water from selected parts of nagongera stream located in nagongera division of tororo district, eastern uganda
(Busitema University, 2022) Oitakol, James
The purpose of this study was to assess the level of nutrient pollutants in Nagongera water stream. Specifically, it was to determine the total concentration of Nitrogen and Phosphorus and to establish the level of water pollution by Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Nagongera water stream. The samples were obtained from Nagongera stream and were collected using bottles. The samples of water from different sites were analyzed using A JEN WAY Geneva plus Model 6705 UV-Visible Spectrophotometer set at a wave length of 890nm. This was first zeroed by use of blank solution in a cuvette (1cm) thick, followed by the standards of concentrations 1mg/l, 2mg/l, 3mg/l, 4mg/l, 5mg/l and 10mg/l in order to calibrate the instrument. The study found out that the concentration of Nitrogen and that of Phosphorus were below as compared to their standards which therefore showed the level of water pollution by Nitrogen and Phosphorus were below their standard concentration. The study concluded that water in Nagongera is not suitable for consumption because of high concentration of phosphorus in site 2. Due to this, there is need for policy makers and other stake holders to regulate the nutrient pollution in Nagongera stream by restricting direct drainage of detergents containing effluents from residential and commercial settings.
Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters in Groundwater Quality of Mella Sub-County, Tororo District
(Busitema University, 2024) Ndigi, Shamiru
Ndigi Shamiru Groundwater is the major source of drinking water in many areas which is abstracted through boreholes and wells for domestic and industrial use. Effective water quality monitoring assists in checking the equality of water available for consumption. This study was carried out to evaluate the physicochemical quality of borehole and well water parameters in Mella sub-county, eastern region of Tororo district where groundwater is the main source of drinking water. The physicochemical parameters analyzed include; Electrical Conductivity (EC), temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, milliVolts (mV) and turbidity using standard methods of analysis. Obtained results were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO), for drinking water. E.C ranged from 88.37-558.6 S, temperature ranged from 27.3-28.0 oC, TDS ranged from 46.48-293.6 ppm, pH ranged from 5.11-6.68 and turbidity ranged from 0.06-397 NTU.
Quantitative phytochemical analysis of euclea racemosa as a potential anti-bacterial herbal remedy for management of pneumonia
(Busitema University, 2024) Nangoli, Cranimer
Introduction: Pneumonia is a respiratory tract infection which is caused by microorganisms resulting into inflammations due to fluid filling in the air sac in either both or one of the lungs. Pneumonia kills more children than any other infectious disease, claiming the lives of close to 2,000 children everyday world wide. Objective: To quantitatively analyze the Phytochemistry of Euclea racemosa for potential antibacterial activity and formulation of an herbal remedy for management of respiratory tract infections. Materials and methods: The phytochemical analysis of Euclea racemosa that belongs to kingdom plantae, Order Ericales, family Ebenaceae, Genius Euclea, species Euclea Racemosa, was examined using organic extracts and aqueous extracts of the leaves of Euclea racemosa. Results: The organic extracts used in investigation of phytochemical and confirmed alkaloids (214.87mg/g), flavonoids (30.3mg/g), tannins (136.5mg/g), phenols (30.2mg/g), glycosides, saponins and as well antibacterial activity investigated on Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and staphylococcus aureus evidenced by the percentage rate inhibition. Conclusion: The extracts showed high inhibition on E. coli than it was on pseudomonas aeruginosa, therefore the antimicrobial activity of E. racemosa is most effect on E. coli. The ability of E. racemosa to show antimicrobial activity may be attributed to the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, tannins, glycosides and saponins which were confirmed to be biologically active ingredients during the phytochemical analysis of the crude extract.
Phytochemistry and antimicrobial properties of avocado seed extract and euclea racemosa schimperi in management of tooth decay.
(Busitema University, 2024) Nandutu, Rebecca
Plant extracts are actively being used worldwide due to the presence of biologically active constituents that aid against various diseases owing to their antimicrobial and antibacterial potential. This research work was carried out to determine the phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of extracts of E. racemose and avocado seed in the management of tooth decay. Anti-microbial studies were carried out by disc diffusion method. Samples from methanol extract were tested against three different bacterial strains comprising one species from Gram negative bacteria i.e., Staphylococcus aureus and two species from Gram-positive bacteria i.e Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas. The results of the qualitative phytochemical analysis showed that methanolic extract of root bark of E. racemose and avocado seed consist of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, and saponins. The total phenol, alkaloid, tannins and flavonoid content of the extracts showed that the methanolic extract of avocado seed had a significantly higher total alkaloid (1.706mg/ml) and flavonoid content (0.261mg/ml) than the extracts of E. racemose which had total alkaloid and flavonoid content as 1.602mg/ml and 0.249mg/ml respectively. The extracts had almost the same quantity of total tannins. Phenols were no detected in the extracts. The antimicrobial activity revealed that the avocado seed has highest antibacterial activity against E. coli compared to the extract of root bark of E. racemose. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of these plants as a reliable source of antimicrobials that may be used for the treatment of various infectious diseases in the present situation. The study provides evidence that these plants can act as a reliable source of antimicrobial agent and may be used against several infectious diseases particularly in managing tooth decay. Keywords: Antimicrobial activity, phytochemical property, HPLC metabolomic analysis.
Comparative study of phospholipid content in eggs of ducks and turkeys
(Busitema University, 2023) Nambuya, Lilian
Background information: The aim of this research was to conduct a comparative study on the amount of egg yolk lecithin extracted from eggs of ducks and turkeys. Lecithin is an important phospholipid found in egg yolks, which has various functional and nutritional properties. Therefore, understanding the amount of lecithin present in different types of eggs can have significant implications for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Methods and materials: The research involved the collection of fresh duck and turkey eggs from local farms. The eggs were separated, and the yolk was extracted using standard techniques. The lecithin was then isolated from the yolk using a solvent extraction method, and analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Results: the percentage yield from eggs of ducks and turkeys were 10.7 % and 8.6 % respectively. Analysis of phospholipid samples using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer showed vibrational frequencies at wave numbers 3300 cm-1, 2922 cm-1 and 1733 cm-1 from which the presence of phospholipids in the samples was inferred. Conclusion: Duck egg yolks contain phospholipids with a higher concentration than turkey eggs.
Analysis of nagongera water for phthalates
(Busitema University, 2024) Nambuba, Esther
This study was aimed at analyzing the presence of phthalates in different water sources using advanced analytical techniques. Specifically, I employed UV-VIS spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis to investigate the following water types: My findings revealed varying concentrations of phthalates across these water sources. The UV VIS spectrometer allowed me to quantify specific phthalate compounds, while FTIR analysis provided insights into their chemical structures. In conclusion, this study contributes valuable data to water quality management in Nagongera. The concentrations of were pond water 0.1015 mg/mL, stream water 0.0994 mg/mL, borehole water 0.0314 mg/mL, packed water 0.0352 mg/mL, and tap water 0.0410 mg/mL. Recommendations for minimizing phthalate contamination include regular monitoring, source-specific interventions, and public awareness campaigns. By understanding the phthalate profiles in different water types, we can safeguard community health and promote safe drinking water practices.

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