Muni Repository (MR)
This repository contains open access publications of Muni University Library.
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Recent Submissions
Total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is a significant predictor of metabolic syndrome among people on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy: A cross-sectional study in southwestern Uganda
(Sage, 2025-08-29) Bagenda, Charles Nkubi; Nantongo, Carol; Ssemwanga, Elastus; Mugisa, Michael Junior; Ojuko, Samuel; Sempijja, Fred; Nzaramba, Daniel; Kiconco, Ritah; Ssedyabane, Frank; Musinguzi, Benson; Akiteng, Winnie; Tusubira, Deusdedit; Osuwat, Lawrence Obado; Rugera, Simon Peter
Objective: The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is a predictor of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease—a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. This study investigated the association between total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and metabolic syndrome among people living with human immunodeficiency virus on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy in southwestern Uganda.
Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of data obtained from a cross-sectional study of 377 adults who had been on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy for at least 1 year at Ruhoko Health Centre IV, southwestern Uganda.
Results: The median total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio was significantly higher in individuals with metabolic syndrome (3.92) than in those without (2.96, p < 0.001). A statistically significant association was observed between high total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and metabolic syndrome (adjusted odds ratios: 2.06, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–3.91, p 1⁄4 0.028). The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio at an optimal cutoff of 3.30 had a significant ability (area under the curve 1⁄4 0.696, 95% confidence interval: 0.642–0.750) to differentiate participants with metabolic syndrome from those without at a sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 60%.
Conclusion: The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio is a significant pre-dictor of metabolic syndrome and serves as a potential blood-based biomarker.
Acute and sub‑acute toxicity assessment of methanolic stem bark extract of Khaya anthotheca (Meliaceae) in Wistar rats
(Springer Nature, 2025-08-29) Akwongo, Betty; Kakudidi, Esezah K.; Nsubuga, Anthony M.; Andama, Morgan; Namaganda, Mary; Tugume, Patience; Asiimwe, Savina; Anywar, Godwin; Katuura, Esther
Background: Khaya anthotheca (Meliaceae) is a medicinal plant with a wide range of therapeutic properties attributable mainly to the diverse limonoids it contains. Different parts of the plant are used in traditional health care for treatment of various diseases including candidiasis. However, inadequate information on its safety prompted this particular study.
Methods: Acute toxicity was assessed according to OECD guidelines 425 in female rats administered with single oral doses of 2000 and 5000 mg/kg body weight (b.wt), and monitored for 14 days for any sign of toxicity and mortality. Sub-acute toxicity was evaluated in both male and female rats following OECD guideline 407, and were administered with extract doses of 500, 250 and 125 mg/kg b.wt repeatedly for 28 days. Body weights were measured weekly, while food and water intake were measured daily. Blood for biochemistry, hematology, and organs for histopathology were collected at the end of the experimental period. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Turkey’s post hoc tests, and repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: Acute toxicity showed no mortality, with half-lethal dose (LD50) being greater than 5000 mg/kg b.wt. For sub-acute toxicity, both male and female rats presented significant increase in food and water consumption, increased body weight with increasing time and extract doses (p < 0.05). The 500 mg/kg dosed female rats showed significant increase in stomach weights and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), while renal function marker of chloride ions (Cl−) decreased. Male rats showed dose-dependent significant rise in albumin (ALB) (p = 0.024). For both male and female rats, prolonged use of high extract doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg b.wt for 28 days were toxic to the stomach and liver.
Conclusions: The methanolic stem bark extract of K. anthotheca is practically non-toxic at acute dose of 5000 mg/kg b.wt, and safe for clinical use at low sub-acute doses of 125 mg/kg b.wt. However, long-term administration of high extract doses above 125 mg/kg was toxic to mainly the liver and stomach. Thus, long-term administration of high dosage of methanol stem bark extract of K. anthotheca, and phytomedicine development should be done with cautions of potential side effects.
Genome-wide survey of peptides containing tyrosine sulfation (PSY) gene family and potential PSY specific miRNA revealed their role in plant development and diverse stress conditions in rice (Oryza sativa L.).
(Springer Nature, 2025-08-26) Kesawat, Mahipal Singh; Manohar, Swati; Anand, Ankit; Alamery, Salman Freeh; Badu, Meenakshi; Kabi, Mandakini; Mohanty, Ankita; Naik, Islavath Suresh; Kumar, Santosh; Kherawat, Bhagwat Singh; Kumar, Vinay; Lenka, Sangram K.; Verma, Shreya; Shrivastava, Harsha; Kumawat, Giriraj; Masika, Fred Bwayo
Background
Soybean is a fundamental oilseed crop, recognized for its notable protein and oil levels. Tyrosine Sulfation (PSY) genes play an essential role in plant growth, development, and responses to stress. However, the precise functions and mechanisms regulated by PSY are still being explored. Currently, there is insufficient information on the PSY gene family in soybean. Therefore, this study conducted a comprehensive genome-wide survey to detect and PSY family members were categorized in soybean.
Results
The phylogenetic analysis revealed that PSY family was categorized into nine distinct groups. Further, we precisely mapped the locations of the 12 GmPSY genes across seven soybean chromosomes. Examination of gene duplication revealed six pairs of duplicated genes within the PSY gene family in soybean. A consistent gene structure pattern was observed among GmPSY gene family members. The alignment of GmPSY protein amino acid sequences revealed a conserved PSY domain present in all proteins. Furthermore, RNA-seq data from the Soybean Expression Atlas revealed varying expression patterns of GmPSY genes across different tissues. To validate the expression profiles, qRT-PCR analysis was performed on selected GmPSY genes using root tissues from contrasting soybean accessions. In addition, identified eight out of the 12 GmPSY genes as targets for ten specific miRNAs. Moreover, we constructed a protein-protein interaction network to explore the connections between GmPSY and other soybean proteins.
Conclusion
Thus, these discoveries lay a robust groundwork for future research aimed at elucidating the specific roles of GmPSY members across different tissues and under various stress conditions in soybean.
Nanoparticles in plant system: A comprehensive review on their role in diverse stress management and phytohormone signaling
(Elsevier, 2025-08-19) Kumar, Vinay; Naik, Islavath Suresh; Das, Bimal; Singh, Anupama; Nayak, Prayasi; Mohapatra, Chinmayee; Debnath, Debanjana; Tripathy, Maitreyee; Behera, Kumareswar; Masika, Fred Bwayo; Manohar, Swati; Chung, Sang-Min; Kherawat, Bhagwat Singh; Hemalatha, Mamidi; Kesawat, Mahipal Singh
Climate variability has led to significant environmental shifts in recent years, placing growing strain on agricultural systems worldwide. These environmental fluctuations have magnified the effects of abiotic and biotic stresses on plants, substantially hampering their growth and lowering crop productivity. To tackle these challenges, there is an urgent need for innovative and effective strategies that promote sustainable agricultural practices. Among emerging technologies, nanotechnology has attracted significant interest for its transformative potential in agriculture. The application of nanoscale materials including nanopesticides, nanofungicides, nanofertilizers, and nanoherbicides offers promising avenues for enhancing crop protection and boost productivity. Nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit unique physicochemical properties that allow for precise and targeted delivery of nutrients and protective agents, thereby improving both the quality and yield of crops under diverse stress conditions. Phytohormone signaling pathways comprise intricate biochemical networks that enable plant hormones to regulate growth, development, and stress responses by transmitting and amplifying precise molecular signals. Recent studies suggest that NPs can alleviate stress-induced damage in plants by modulating phytohormone signaling pathways. However, the complex mechanisms underlying the interactions between NPs and phytohormone biosynthesis remain largely unexplored. This review offers a comprehensive overview of nanoparticle synthesis methods, types, and characterization techniques, with particular emphasis on their potential for mitigating both abiotic and biotic stresses. In addition, the article explores the role of NPs in plant pathology, particularly in disease detection and management. It also highlights emerging evidence on the impact of NPs on phytohormone signaling pathways, which are crucial for improving plant resilience and productivity in stress-prone environments. Thus, nanotechnology holds considerable promise for alleviating stress-related challenges and improving crop yields. A deeper understanding of NP–phytohormone interactions is crucial for developing safe and effective nanotechnological strategies to advance sustainable agriculture
Organizational justice and employee performance in the public sector in Uganda: A correlational study
(Eternal Scientific Publications, 2025-07-19) Edema, Stephen Budraa
The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between organisational justice and employees’ performance in Pakwach district. It specifically sought to establish the relationship between distributive justice and employee performance in the Pakwach district, to determine the relationship between procedural justice and employee performance in the Pakwach district, and to examine the relationship between interactional justice and employee performance in the Pakwach district. This study was anchored on equity theory (Adams, 1965). Correlational design was used. The sample was selected using stratified random sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The response rate was 85.6%. Computer-aided data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 22, for Windows. Descriptive statistics were generated, and correlation analysis was done. The study established a weak, positive, and statistically significant relationship between distributive justice and employee performance; a weak, positive, but statistically insignificant relationship between procedural justice and employee performance; and a moderately positive, statistically significant relationship between interactional justice and employee performance. The study concluded that organisational justice dimensions have a weak to moderate relationship with employee performance. Recommendations for further study are made herein.