Faculty of Science (FSC)

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Open Access
Direct somatic embryogenesis induction in Aspilia Africana (Pers.) C. D. Adams, and assessment of genetic homogeneity and physiology of regenerants
(Scientific reports, 2025) Gang, Roggers; Yang, Sungyu; Happy, Kenneth; Mudondo, Joyce; Haniffadli, Ariranur; Okello, Denis; Ban, Yeongjun; Kang, Youngmin
Aspilia africana (Pers.) C. D. Adams is a valuable medicinal plant, and the expanding therapeutic use of the plant due to explosion of human population is causing depletion of its wild population, thus requiring propagation. This study established an effective method for direct somatic embryogenesis in A. africana using leaf explants. We evaluated the effects of exogenous plant growth regulators (PGRs) and some molecules on induction, development, and maturation of somatic embryos. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 3.472 × 10−2 mg/L adenosine 5-monophosphate (AMP) optimally induced direct somatic embryogenesis in A. africana leaf explants (100% response and 9.50 ± 0.29 somatic embryos per explant). Differentiation and maturation of somatic embryos was enhanced under osmotic stress induced by using 9 g/L gelrite in MS medium augmented with 0.5 mg/L abscisic acid (ABA) and 6.634 × 10−2 mg/L nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) (6.27 ± 0.36 globular, 3.40 ± 0.35 heart, 2.60 ± 0.51 torpedo, and 4.73 ± 0.41 cotyledonary). Half strength MS medium containing 0.5 mg/L gibberellin (GA) and 0.1 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) optimally supported germination (31 ± 1.73%) of cotyledonary somatic embryos. Pre-germination treatment of cold (stratification at 4o C) further stimulated somatic embryo germination (60.00%) and their conversion into plantlets (26.67%). After five weeks of acclimatization, the survival rate of somatic embryo derived A. africana plants was 75.00%. Histological observations and flow cytometric analysis confirmed different somatic embryo stages and stability in genome size of regenerated plants, respectively. Moreover, chlorophyll contents and photosynthetic rates were similar between zygotic and somatic embryo derived plants. This method could be employed in mass clonal regeneration, conservation, synthetic seed production, cryopreservation, and genetic improvement of A. africana. Additionally, the system would provide suitable model for investigating molecular, biochemical, and physiological events, which occur at the induction and development of embryogenesis in A. africana.
Open Access
Sustainable innovation in foamed concrete using waste sanitary ware as fine aggregate for properties enhancement
(Science Progress, 2025) Mydin, Md Azree Othuman; Sor, Nadhim Hamah; Al Bakri Abdullah, Mohd Mustafa; Isleem, Haytham F.; Dulaimi, Anmar; Awoyera, Paul O.; Fadugba, Olaolu George; Tawfik, Taher A.
The solid waste generated by the waste sanitary ware (WSW) sector is of considerable magnitude on a global scale. Recycling ceramic waste is an essential practice that ensures its proper disposal. Therefore, the objective of this research endeavor was to investigate the effects of replacing sand with WSW on different characteristics of foamed concrete (FC), such as its thermal properties, transportability, freshness, and mechanical strengths. A range of replacement rates, ranging from 5% to 25%, was considered. The utilization of WSW replacements increases the initial and final setting times, along with the densities of the mixtures, according to the test results. Nevertheless, the slump of the fresh test decreases. Significant improvements were observed in the mechanical characteristics when the replacement ratio was established at 10%. Furthermore, the results of the scanning electron microscopy evaluation and pore distribution analysis indicated that the performance of FC containing up to 10% WSW was superior as a filler for pores. Also, the addition of WSW resulted in a decrease in sorptivity, porosity, and water absorption. Nevertheless, the thermal conductivity of FC was enhanced. Nevertheless, considering the comprehensive examination, the most optimal approach to manufacturing environmentally friendly FC may involve replacing 10% of WSW.
Open Access
Fruits and Vegetables Used in Treating Respiratory and Other Troubles in Africa: Ethnopharmacology and Phytochemistry
(Springer Nature, 2025) Gumula, Ivan; Buyinza, Daniel; Onen, Patrick; Kyarimpa, Christine
Respiratory troubles, which encompass conditions such as cough,asthma, tuberculosis, bronchitis, common cold, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pose significant health challenges globally. This chapter explores the diverse array of biologically active agents (BAA) found in vegetables and fruit plants used not only as sources of food but also for treatment of respiratory troubles in Africa. A total of 38 vegetables and fruit plants from 22 families were encountered. The plants are sources of antimicrobials that help the lungs to resist infection as well as boost the immunity of the host; expectorants which stimulate the coughing up of mucus; anti-inflammatory agents and demulcents which soothe irritated membranes, while others are spasmolytic which relax the bronchial muscles. The BAA include allicin from garlic, quercetin from onions, theobromine from cacao, and anethole from fennel. BAA, such as bromelain in pineapple, beta-carotene in carrots, vitamin C in lemon, and glucosinolates in radish, play pivotal roles in mucolytic activities and enhancement of immune function as well as repair of the bronchial membrane. Some of the vegetables/fruits are a source of mineral salts that are vital to the integrity and functioning of lungs. Thus, Cleome gynandra contains selenium, a key component that inhibits HIV-associated tuberculosis. The available research evidence underscores the importance of integrating the BAA into human daily diets as a prophylactic approach and therapeutic strategy against respiratory troubles
Open Access
Trichosanthis Radix: A comprehensive review on botany, ethnomedicine, phytochemistry, pharmacology, quality control and toxicology
(Elsevier, 2025) Mudondo, Joyce; Happy, Kenneth; Okello, Dennis; Kang, Youngmin
Trichosanthis Radix, derived from the roots of Trichosanthes kirilowii Maximowicz and Trichosanthes rosthornii Harms, is used widely in traditional Asian medicine. It has been used for centuries across China, Japan, South Korea, and other Asian countries to treat several ailments, including diabetes, cancer, inflammation, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. The pharmacopoeias in several countries recognize its ability to clear heat, reduce swelling, expel pus, generate fluids, and regulate menstruation. This review provides a comprehensive synopsis of botanical, and ethnomedicinal uses of Trichosanthis Radix. In addition, the phytochemical constituents, including proteins (trichosanthin), terpenoids (cucurbitacins), alkaloids, lignans, coumarins, and flavonoids, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects including antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, abortifacient, neuroprotective, immunoregulatory, and antiviral activities are examined. Furthermore, the clinical, pharmacokinetic, quality control measures, processing methods, and toxicity associated with Trichosanthis Radix are discussed. Finally, future research opportunities and potential applications of Trichosanthis Radix in modern medicine are explored with a focus on expanding its therapeutic use and ensuring safe and effective medicinal applications.
Open Access
Sustainable futures: Aligning climate actions and socio-economic justice through the just energy transition
(Elesevier, 2025) Tamasiga, Phemelo; Onyeaka, Helen; Bakwen, Malebogo; Kayembe, Benita; Dzingai, Valentine; Kgengwenyane, Nancy; Babugura, Agnes Ariho; Ouassou, El houssin
The transition towards a just and equitable energy system is a crucial pathway to reconciling climate action with socio-economic justice, as outlined by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. This systematic review examines the evolving scope of the Just Energy Transition, which has expanded from labor concerns to broader socio-economic and environmental dimensions. It presents a compelling case for safeguarding marginalized and vulnerable communities as economies shift to low-carbon models. The review investigates the synergies and trade-offs between SDG implementation and climate action, emphasizing the need to balance economic growth, energy access, food security, and infrastructure development with climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. Achieving a just energy transition requires prioritizing renewable energy investments, sustainable infrastructure, and policies that promote equity. Decentralized energy systems have effectively reduced energy poverty and alleviated regional disparities. However, the review also identifies potential trade-offs, such as economic disruption and increased inequality, if the transition is not managed inclusively. These challenges require an integrated policy framework that promotes cross-sectoral collaboration, drives clean energy innovation, accelerates the mobilization of private capital, and implements targeted subsidies. Such a comprehensive approach is indispensable for securing sustainable futures that meet climate action and socio-economic justice mandates. Comprehensive stakeholder engagement and capacity- building initiatives are critical to executing a just transition that aligns economic policy with environmental stewardship.
Open Access
Cytotoxicity of isoflavones from Millettia dura
(Taylor & Francis, 2019) Buyinza, Daniel; Yang, Li Jun; Derese, Solomon; Ndakala, Albert; Coghi, Paolo; Heydenreich, Matthias; Wong, Vincent Kam Wai; Möller, Heiko M.; Yenesew, Abiy
The first phytochemical investigation of the flowers of Millettia dura resulted in the isolation of seven isoflavones, a flavonol and a chalcone. Eleven isoflavones and a flavonol isolated from various plant parts from this plant were tested for cytotoxicity against a panel of cell lines, and six of these showed good activity with IC50 values of 6-14 lM. Durmillone was the most active with IC50 values of 6.6 lM against A549 adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cancer cell line with low cytotoxicity against the non-cancerous cell lines BEAS-2B (IC50 ¼ 58.4 lM), LO2 hepatocytes (IC50 78.7 lM) and CCD19Lu fibroblasts (IC50 >100 lM).
Open Access
Benzophenones from African plants to fight cancers and cancer drug resistance
(Elsevier, 2025) Nchiozem-Ngnitedema, Vaderament-A.; Buyinza, Daniel; Kuete, Victor
In response to the cancer threat, several interventions have been sought including the search for small molecules from natural sources that may arrest cancer at any of its different cycle stages. Such molecules include the benzophenones from fungi or higher plants (Clusiaceae and Guttiferae families). This book chapter will systematically cover the emerging areas in the field of benzophenones and their polyprenylated benzophenone analogs isolated from herbal medicines found in Africa with application in cancer treatment. Initially, benzophenones have been introduced as chemical entities, then an overview of their biosynthesis has been introduced, followed by phytochemical characterization from various tissues in the plant kingdom, and lastly a comprehensive updated study on benzophenones and their prenylated derivatives against various cancer cell lines has been provided.
Open Access
Antimicrobial potency of extracts from selected medicinal plants towards Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(Kabale University Interdisciplinary Research Journal (KURJ), 2023) Buyinza, Daniel; Gumula, Ivan; Akampuira, Denis; Ninsiima, Herbert
Antibiotic resistance has become a very big threat to the existing first line antibiotics. Some of the infectious pathogens are becoming multidrug resistant including Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This has necessitated social, scientific and financial interventions from key players. The strain this puts on the fragile health care systems of developing nations is frustrating. Scientific interventions have involved campaigns for improved hygiene, use of combination therapies and revived search for new drugs with different modes of action. It is on this basis that this research was conducted as phase I into the search for antibiotic agents from nature. This was done by screening several plant extracts to identify bioactive extracts that can be developed into drugs or purified for better active single molecules in the second phase. Extracts were obtained by cold percolation of pulverized samples of different dried plant parts using different mono-solvents. Agar diffusion and froth floatation were used to measure the potency of the extracts. Many of the screened extracts had good to moderate activities. Five of the plant species; Zanthoxylum chalybeum and gilletii, Diospyros abyssinica, Prunus africana, Peptadeniastrum africana and Blighia unijugata showed very promising activities (1.9 to 9.4 mg/mL) against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The other species had moderate activity (10.6 to 47.5 mg/mL). The species (Albizzia coriaria, Maytenus senegalense and Kigellia africana) that inspired this research from literature only demonstrated moderate activity against all the tested organisms, probably due to antagonistic effect of the active compounds within the extracts. In conclusion, Z. chalybeum and gilletii, D. abyssinica, P. africana, Peptadeniastrum. africana and B. unijugata have a very strong potential for drug development and are recommended for use in the management of infections caused by the tested microbes and purification to isolate the individual active compounds for better formulation, standardization and drug acceptability.
Open Access
Antiplasmodial compounds from Millettia dura
(Kabale University Interdisciplinary Research Journal (KURJ), 2022) Buyinza, Daniel; Derese, Solomon; Ndakala, Albert
Malaria still poses a big challenge to the health care of many tropical countries. The plasmodium resistance to the conventional drugs is the major hitch in its treatment. Higher plants have produced single line antimalarials and given important lead molecules. On this basis, flavonoids isolated from millettia dura by chromatographic techniques were screened againest W2 and D6 strains of plasmoduim falcipalum. Both, the crude and pure compounds tested showed mild activities against the test organisms. The crude extract of the stem bark had the highest respective activity of 63.7±8.6 and 46.1±4.5 µg/ml against W2 and D6. Of the pure compounds, milletosin was active towards both W2 and D6 with a respective IC50s of 87.9±8.9 and 66.70±30.3 µg/ml. Synergistic effect might have contributed to the relative high activity of the crude than the pure compounds. Basing on the structure activity relationship of the tested compounds, suitable structural modification could be ideal to enhance the antiplasmodial activity.
Open Access
A coumestan and a coumaronochromone from Millettia lasiantha
(Elservier, 2023) Buyinza, Daniel; Derese, Solomon; Ndakala , Albert; Heydenreich, Matthias; Yenesew , Abiy; Oriko, Richard
The manuscript describes the phytochemical investigation of the roots, leaves and stem bark of Millettia lasiantha resulting in the isolation of twelve compounds including two new isomeric isoflavones lascoumestan and lascoumaronochromone. The structures of the new compounds were determined using different spectroscopic techniques.
Open Access
Flavonoids and Isoflavonoids of Millettia dura and Millettia ferruginea: Phytochemical review and chemotaxonomic values
(Elsevier, 2020) Buyinza, Daniel; Chalo, Duncan Mutiso; Derese, Solomon; Ndakala, Albert; Yenesew, Abiy
The phytochemical information on Millettia dura Dunn, M. ferruginea (Hochst.) Baker and M. ferruginea subsp. darassana (Cufod.) J.B. Gillett was reviewed. All the three taxa elaborate mainly isoflavones (33 reported), occurring in the flowers, seeds/seed pods, stem bark and root bark. Out of the 33 isoflavones reported, some 19 (ca. 58%) contain prenyl at C-8 or its modification as 2,2-dimethylchromene ring at C-7/C-8, occurring in all the three taxa. Except for three isoflavones isolated from M. ferruginea subsp. darassana, all the isoflavones of these taxa are 5-deoxygenated. In these taxa, oxygenation at C-6 is a common feature, while isoflavones with C-8 oxygenation are rare, only three reported, and all of these from M. dura. There are 7 rotenoids reported from these taxa, and occur almost entirely in the seeds/seedpods of these plants. The major rotenoid with methyle nedioxy group at C-2/C-3, millettone and its 12a-hydroxy derivative, millettosine, occur only in M. dura, this appears to distinguish M. dura from M. ferruginea.
Open Access
Fighting the next pandemic: A phytochemical Approach from African flora - An overview
(Society for the Advancement of Scienvce in Africa, 2022) Buyinza, Daniel; Gumula, Ivan
Management of any pandemic requires a multidimensional approach with a hand from all players. At every break of a pandemic, there is always no immediate treatment and efforts are often devoted to social distancing, isolation/quarantine, diagnosis, and care with prospects to treat but with no clear medication. The approach has always been to permit the body to fight off the pandemic by boosting its immune system through selective diet and or food supplements as external immune boosters in addition to arresting symptoms. With the exception of COVID-19, the burden of HIV epidemic and seasonal flu pandemics, infectious disease outbreaks have mostly devastated developing societies. The use of herbal remedies to cure several kinds of human diseases has a long history in Africa. Various plant parts are used to prevent, dispel symptoms or regress deformities to normal. A portion of the pharmaceutical products currently being prescribed by physicians including opium, aspirin, digitalis, paclitaxel, docetaxel, vinblastine, vincristine, quinine, and artemisinin have a historic use as herbal remedies. African medicinal plants are rich in such natural bioactive metabolites with therapeutic values against several diseases including deadly fevers. The therapeutic properties of these metabolites are a factor of the type and amount of alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, quinones, saponins, and terpenes contained. Human ingestion of these bioactive trigger pharmacological effects like antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, and antioxidant effects, thereby arresting the causal or symptomatic effects manifested in the pandemics. Ethnomedical and phytochemical studies on the African medicinal plants have led to the isolation of promising antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, analgesic, and antimicrobial metabolites. Our discussion in this chapter is premised on challenging Africans Scientists (ethnobotanists, phytochemists, microbiologists, and pharmacologists) to collaboratively intensify the search for phytochemicals as drug leads and explore options for developing these leads into functional medicines for the various diseases/pandemics devastating the continent.
Open Access
A Revised Protecting Group Strategy Enables a Divergent Synthesis of Prenylated Isoflavones from Psoralea corylifolia
(Synthesis, 2025) Gliszczinskia Sarah von Chamier; Sperlicha Eric; Kellinga Alexandra; Kwesiga George; Schmidt Bernd
Three bioactive prenylated isoflavone natural products were synthesized for the first time, using a combination of Pd-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura coupling for installing the B-ring, microwave-promoted Claisen rearrangement of allyl ethers, and Ru-catalyzed olefin cross me tathesis for obtaining the prenyl substituents. Careful consideration of the protecting group strategy turned out to be vital for the success of these total syntheses.
Open Access
Low Latitude Analysis of Geomagnetic Storm Effects on Ionospheric Vertical Drifts over the East African Region
(Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, 2025) Niwamanya, Duncan; Habyarimana , Valence; Jurua, Edward
The geomagnetic storm effect on ionospheric vertical E × B drift is analysed using Communication/Navigation Outage and Forecasting System (C/NOFS) Satellite data, magnetometer data, and solar wind data, over the East African low latitude region during the period 2008-2015. We identified a total of 608 corotating interaction region (CIR)-driven and 23 coronal mass ejection (CME)-driven geomagnetic storms in this study. Most of the CIR-driven storms were observed during the declining phase of solar cycle 24 in 2015. The CME-driven storms, on the other hand, were dominant during the near maximum phase of the solar cycle 24 in 2012. The C/NOFS satellite data was found to be consistent with magnetometer observations in identifying both upward and downward vertical E × B drift occurrence. The common result of analysed CME-driven geomagnetic storms was enhancement in E × B drifts due to presence of eastward prompt penetrating electric fields (PPEFs) during the storm main phase. There was also a decrease in E × B due to the decrease in horizontal component of the magnetic field ( ΔH ) during the recovery phases of the CME-driven storms. This is a manifestation of downward E × B drifts associated with westward electric field, which is due to the disturbance dynamo contribution. During CIR-driven geomagnetic storms, the storm’s main phases were also dominated by downward E × B drifts associated with westward electric field, which is due to disturbance dynamo.
Open Access
A systematic review of Aspilia africana (Pers.) C.D. adams traditional medicinal uses, phytoconstituents, bioactivities, and toxicities
(Elsevier, 2025) Gang, Roggers; Okello, Denis; Yeongjun, Ban; Kang, Youngmin
Aspilia africana (Pers.) C. D. Adams, popularly referred to as wild sunflower, has been used for generations across several African communities to treat various diseases, including malaria, wounds, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, gastric ulcers, measles, tuberculosis, stomach ache, rheumatic pains, and gonorrhea. This study aimed to sys-tematically and critically compile data on the traditional medicinal uses, phytochemistry, bioactivities, botanical descriptions, and toxicities of A. africana. Relevant research findings were retrieved and organized from various databases, including PubMed and ScienceDirect, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. To date, 149 phytochemicals have been identified from various A. africana parts and they primarily belong to the classes of terpenoids, lipids, hydrocarbons, phenolics, and esters. The extracts and bioactive phytochemicals of A. africana have revealed several pharmacological prop-erties, including antimalarial, anticancer, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities. However, the major components responsible for these bioactivities and their mechanisms of action in some diseases have not yet been clearly identified. Additionally, toxicity and clinical trial data for A. africana are limited with most toxicological assessments being acute in nature. Therefore, further research on the mechanisms of action of the pure bioactive phytochemicals and toxicity of A. africana are necessary to better understand its efficacy and safety. Taken together, this study provides comprehensive information on the traditional medicinal uses, phytochemistry, bioactivities, and toxicity of A. africana, and a reference for future studies, relevant to the development of therapeutic products.
Open Access
Antibacterial Properties of Phytochemicals Isolated from Leaves of Alstonia boonei and Aerial Parts of Ipomoea cairica.
(Kabale University, 2024) Gumula, Ivan; Kyarimpa, Christine; Nanyonga, Sarah Kiwanuka; Kwesiga, George; Busulwa, George; Opio, Boniface; Heydenreich, Mathias; Omara, Timothy
The leaves of Alstonia boonei and aerial parts of Ipomoea cairica are used for treatment of microbial infections among other ailments in African traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial phytochemicals in A. boonei leaves and Ipomoea cairica aerial parts to validate their traditional use in Ugandan herbal medicine. Methods: The plant materials were separately extracted using a dichloromethane/methanol (1:1) solvent system and subjected to repeated chromatographic separation to isolate pure compounds. The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were determined through 1 H NMR, 13C NMR and 2D NMR (COSY, HSQC and HMBC). The antibacterial activity of the extracts and pure compounds were assessed using the agar well diffusion method. Results: Chromatographic fractionation of the extracts yielded trans-fagaramide and a pentacyclic lupane-type triterpenoid, lupeol, from A. boonei, and friedelin from I. cairica. Trans-fagaramide was identified for the first time in the Alstonia genus while friedelin was identified for the first time in I. cairica. The isolated compounds demonstrated antibacterial activity, with trans-fagaramide showing a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 125 μg/mL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 250 μg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli. Friedelin exhibited a MIC of 125 μg/mL against Escherichia coli and 250 μg/mL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. Conclusion: The antibacterial activities observed in this study support the traditional use of A. boonei and I. cairica by indigenous communities in Uganda for treating microbial infections.
Open Access
Determining Bandgap of Thermochromic Phosphor Films via Reflectance Measurements under Controlled Heating
(Kabale University, 2024) Katashaya, Steven Rwabona
In this article, we present a method to determine the bandgap of a thermochromic phosphor film by simple reflectance measurements under controlled heating. The phosphor is illuminated by a light-emitting diode while being heated continuously. The reflected light is detected using a calibrated photodiode circuit based on an operational transconductance amplifier. We apply the Schuster Kubelka-Munk function to deduce the absorbance over temperature and thus the bandgap. We show, for the first time, that the thermochromic phosphor's color change follows Arrhenius's Law and therefore involves activation energy. We estimate the bandgap to be between 1.1 eV and 1.9 eV and find an activation energy of 46.67 ±1.6 kJ/mol. The simplicity of the approach will appeal to undergraduate teachers and students of physics and materials science. The technique can be used to investigate other thermochromic materials as well.
Open Access
Medicinal Plants used for Cutaneous Wound Healing in Uganda; Ethnomedicinal Reports and Pharmacological Evidences.
(Kabale University, 2024) Gang, Roggers; Okello, Denis; Kang, Youngmin
Background: Wounds have become a major health challenge worldwide, presenting marked humanistic and economic burdens such as disabilities and death. Annually, approximately 14 million people suffer from wounds worldwide and 80 % of these occur in developing countries like Uganda. In Uganda, besides many cases of daily wound occurrences, approximately 10 % of surgical procedures become septic wounds and consequently lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, several ethnomedicinal studies have identified plants used for wound treatment in different parts of Uganda and the wound-healing activities of some plants have been reported. However, at present, this information remain largely separated without an all- inclusive repository containing ethnomedicinal and pharmacological information about the plants used for wound healing in Uganda, thus retarding appropriate evaluation. Therefore, this review focused on extensively exploring the plants used for treating cutaneous wounds in Uganda, along with associated ethnomedicinal information and their globally reported pharmacological potential. Methods: Electronic data bases including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct were searched using key terms for required information contained in English peer reviewed articles, books, and dissertations. Additionally, correlations between selected parameters were determined with coefficient of determination (r2). Results: The literature survey revealed that 165 species belonging to 62 families are traditionally used to treat wounds in Uganda. Most of the species belonged to families of Asteraceae (14 %), Fabaceae (10 %), and Euphorbiaceae (7 %). The commonest plant parts used for wound treatment include leaf (48 %), root (22 %), stembark (11 %), and stem (7 %), which are prepared majorly by poultice (34 %), decoction (13 %), as well as powdering (25 %). Fifty-four (33 %) of the plant species have been investigated for their wound-healing activities whereas, one hundred eleven (67 %) have not been scientifically investigated for their wound-healing effects. Pearson correlation coefficient between the number of wound-healing plant families per part used and the percent of each plant part used was 0.97, and between the number of wound-healing plant families per method of preparation and percent of each method of preparation was 0.95, showing in both strong positively marked relationships.
Open Access
Agricultural sustainability through Smart Farming Systems: A comparative Analysis Between the Republic of Korea and Republic of Uganda.
(Kabale University, 2024) Happy, Kenneth; Gang, Roggers; Ban, Yeongjun; Yang, Sungyu; Rahmat, Endang; Okello, Denis; Komakech, Richard; Cyrus, Okello; Okello, Kalule David; Kang, Youngmin
Smart farming involves the integration of information and communication technologies into machinery and sensors for use in agricultural systems. It is expected to potentially enhance the sustainability of agriculture and global food security. The need for smart farming arises from the increasing adverse environmental, ecological, social, and economic impacts on food systems. The potential impact of smart farming solutions on different countries is less known. Therefore, we comprehensively analyzed the role of smart farming solutions in sustaining agricultural production in the context of comparing a developed (Republic of Korea), and an emergent (Republic of Uganda) country. We scrutinized the agricultural assets, natural resources, approaches, technologies, policy interventions, achievements, challenges encountered, and reasons of smart farm pursuit for each country. Information presented in the paper indicated that both countries have similar objectives in the pursuit for smart farming: response to climate change and sustaining food security. However, the Republic of Korea employs a holistic approach of revolutionizing agriculture via smart farms. In contrast, distinct smart farming interventions implemented by government institutions, competing private sector, and non-governmental organizations are shaping the development of a smart farm concept in the Republic of Uganda. In conclusion, the application of smart farming solutions appears to be promising in enhancing the stability of the whole food system in both countries.
Open Access
In vitro multiplication and phytochemical evaluation of Apios americana Medik for enhanced production of the staple food and tissues with versatile bioactivities.
(Kabale University, 2024) Okello, Denis; Gang, Roggers; Rahmat, Endang; Yang, Sungyu; Ban, Yeongjun; Chung, Yuseong; Lee, Jun; Kang, Youngmin
Apios americana Medik tissues, including tubers, flowers, leaves, and vines have both nutritional and therapeutic benefits. These tissues are extensively used in products like beverages and food supplements, driving an exponential increase in worldwide demand for the plant. However, conventional propagation of A. Americana through seeds and tubers faces several challenges, including limited seed sets under manual pollination, resulting in reduced production. To overcome these challenges, micropropagation emerges as a promising solution. The current research study has developed an effective in vitro propagation strategy for A. americana using direct regeneration from apical segment explants. Full-strength Quoirin and Lepoivre (QL) medium, supplemented with vitamins and 2.0 mg/L benzylaminopurine (BAP), yielded the highest number of shoots (7.50 ± 0.06) per apical segment explant. QL medium fortified with 1.0 mg/L indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) demonstrated the highest root number (2.80 ± 0.30), length (85.80 ± 7.49 mm), and surface area (10.40 ± 0.82 cm2) in regenerated A. American shoots. The survival rate of the regenerants in the ex-vitro environment was 92.7% after acclimatization. In vitro-regenerated A. Americana plants and mother plants exhibited similar ploidy levels, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, phytochemical composition, and antioxidant capacity, indicating similarity in their physiological and biochemical properties. This protocol offers a rapid and scalable method for generating high-quality, A. Americana plant stocks with stable genome size/ploidy level, meeting the exponentially growing demand for plant tissues. Additionally, it holds potential applications in A. Americana breeding and germplasm preservation.