Animal Breeding

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Production of High Energy Density Fermented Uji using a Commercial Alpha-Amylase orby Single-Screw Extrusion
(ScienceDirect, 2003) Onyango Calvin; Henle Thomas; Hofmann Thea; Bley Thomas
The effects of alpha-amylase and extrusion on the viscosity and energy density of uji, a spontaneously fermented thin porridge from different combinations of maize, finger millet, sorghum and cassava, were investigated. Fermentation alone was not able to reduce the viscosity of uji, but addition of 0.1–2.1 ml/100 ml alpha-amylase to the fermented slurry or extrusion of the fermented and dried flour at 150–180°C and a screw speed of 200 rpm reduced the viscosity of 20 g/100 ml uji from 6000–7000 to 1000–2000 cP, measured at 40°C and a shear rate of 50 s−1. The amount of flour required to make uji could thus be increased by a factor of 2.0–2.5 and consequently it was possible to produce uji with acceptable energy densities (0.6–0.8 kcal/g) for child feeding.
Digestibility and Antinutrient Properties of Acidified and Extruded Maize–Finger Millet Blend in the Production of Uji
(ScienceDirect, 2004) Onyango Calvin; Noetzold Horst; Ziems Annette; Hofmann Thea; Bley Thomas; Henle Thomas
Lactic and citric acids were used as alternatives to backslop fermentation in the manufacture of extruded uji (a thin porridge from eastern Africa). Acidity of the blends was reduced by fermentation or progressively lowered with 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mol/l lactic or citric acids before extrusion. The absence of ethanol soluble starch in the extrudates indicated that extrusion solubilizes starch without formation of maltodextrins. In vitro starch digestibility increased from 20 mg maltose/g starch in the raw blend to about 200 mg/g after extrusion. Extrusion reduced total dietary fibre by 39–68%, redistributed soluble to insoluble fibre ratios and had a negligible effect on the formation of resistant starch (less than 1 g/100 g). In vitro protein digestibility increased after fermentation or acid treatment followed by extrusion. Nitrogen solubility index decreased by 40–50% when the unfermented, lactic or citric acid treated blends were extruded, but increased by 20% when the blend was fermented before extrusion. Amino acid analysis showed that histidine, lysine and arginine contents were lowest in the fermented-extruded blends. Tannin content decreased from 1677 mg/100 g in the raw blend to between 551 and 1093 mg/100 g in the extrudates whereas phytate content remained unaffected by extrusion (248–286 )
Proximate Composition and Digestibility of Fermented and Extruded Uji From Maize– Finger Millet Blend
(LWT - Food Science and Technology, 2004) Onyango Calvin; Noetzold Horst; Bley Thomas; Henle Thomas
The proximate composition, amino acid profile and in vitro starch and protein digestibilities of raw; fermented; fermented and cooked; unfermented and extruded; and fermented and extruded maize–finger millet blend was studied. Aspartic acid, glycine,cystine, methionine, tyrosine and lysine increased after fermentation, while contents of all other amino acids showed no significant changes. Greater losses of amino acids occurred when the fermented blend was extruded than when cooked. Fermentation improved protein and starch digestibilities, whereas cooking or extruding the fermented blend reduced the digestibilities. Extruding the unfermented blend increased protein and starch digestibilities and reduced nitrogen solubility index by 50%. Raw flour had 0.41 g/100 g water-soluble starch which declined to 0.05 g/100 g on fermentation but increased to 20–34 g/100 g after extrusion
Effect of Extrusion Variables on Fermented Maize–Finger Millet Blend in the Production Of Uji
(ScienceDirect, 2004) Onyango Calvin; Henle Thomas; Ziems Anette; Thea Hofmann; Thomas Bley
The effects of screw speed, feed moisture, glucose, fructose, sucrose and maltose on extrusion of lactic fermented and dried maize–finger millet blend was investigated. Fermentation caused a reduction in sectional expansion index, flour bulk density and water absorption index (WAI) but increased specific volume, water solubility index and darkened the extrudates. Increase in feed moisture (13–25%) reduced sectional expansion index, specific volume and yellowness but increased extrudate moisture content, bulk density and darkness of the extrudates. Increasing screw speed (158–242 rpm) had a negative correlation only with specific volume and lightness (P<0.05). An increase in the content of any of the sugars reduced extrudate moisture content, sectional expansion index, WAI and specific volume but increased bulk density and water solubility index. Extrudates treated with monosaccharides were darker than extrudates treated with disaccharides.
Influence of Incubation Temperature and Time on Resistant Starch Type III Formation From Autoclaved and Acid-Hydrolysed Cassava Starch
(SciencDirect, 2006-11-24) Onyango Calvin; Bley Thomas; Annette Jacob; Henle Thomas; Rohm Harald
Raw cassava starch, having 74.94 and 0.44 g/100 g resistant starch type II and III (RS II and RS III), respectively, was autoclaved at 121 °C in water, 1, 10 or 100 mmol/L lactic acid. The formation of RS III was evaluated in relation to variable incubation temperature (−20 to 100 °C), incubation time (6–48 h) and autoclaving time (15–90 min). Negligible to low quantities of RS III (0.59–2.42 g/100 g) were formed from autoclaved starch suspended in 100 mmol/L lactic acid, whereas intermediate to high quantities (2.68–9.97 g/100 g) were formed from autoclaved starch suspended in water, 1 or 10 mmol/L lactic acid, except for treatments with water or 10 mmol/L lactic acid incubated at 100 °C for 6 h (1.74 g/100 g). Autoclaving times corresponding to maximum RS III contents were 15 and 45 min for water and 10 mmol/L lactic acid, respectively. Whereas, the RS III fractions from cassava starch suspended in water had melt transitions between 158 and 175 °C with low endothermic enthalpies (0.2–1.6 J/g), the thermal transitions of the acidtreated samples were indistinct.
Parasites Modify Sub-Cellular Partitioning of Metals in the Gut of Fish
(Pubmed, 2011) Okoth Oyoo Elijah; Admiraal Wim; Odipo Osano; Kraak Michael; Gichuki John; Ogwai Caleb
Infestation of fish by parasites may influence metal accumulation patterns in the host. However, the subcellular mechanisms of these processes have rarely been studied. Therefore, this study determined how a cyprinid fish (Rastrineobola argentea) partitioned four metals (Cd, Cr, Zn and Cu) in the subcellular fractions of the gut in presence of an endoparasite (Ligula intestinalis). The fish were sampled along four sites in Lake Victoria, Kenya differing in metal contamination. Accumulation of Cd, Cr and Zn was higher in the whole body and in the gut of parasitized fish compared to non-parasitized fish, while Cu was depleted in parasitized fish. Generally, for both non-parasitized and parasitized fish, Cd, Cr and Zn partitioned in the cytosolic fractions and Cu in the particulate fraction. Metal concentrations in organelles within the particulate fractions of the non-parasitized fish were statistically similar except for Cd in the lysosome, while in the parasitized fish, Cd, Cr and Zn were accumulated more by the lysosome and microsomes. In the cytosolic fractions, the non-parasitized fish accumulated Cd, Cr and Zn in the heat stable proteins (HSP), while in the parasitized fish the metals were accumulated in the heat denatured proteins (HDP). On the contrary, Cu accumulated in the HSP in parasitized fish. The present study revealed specific binding of metals to potentially sensitive sub-cellular fractions in fish in the presence of parasites, suggesting interference with metal detoxification, and potentially affecting the health status of fish hosts in Lake Victoria.
Genetic parameters for production and feeding behaviour traits in crossbred steers fed a finishing diet at different ages
(NRC Research Press, 2013-03) Durunna, Obioha N.; Mujibi, Fidalis D. N.; Nkrumah, Donald J.; Basarab, John A.; Okine, Erasmus K.; Moore, Stephen S.; Wang, Zhiquan
Durunna, O. N., Mujibi, F. D. N., Nkrumah, D. J., Basarab, J. A., Okine, E. K., Moore, S. S. and Wang, Z. 2013. Genetic parameters for production and feeding behaviour traits in crossbred steers fed a finishing diet at different ages. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 93: 79–87. Because cattle can be raised postweaning under several feeding regimes, this study examined the consistency of phenotypic and genetic parameters of some production and feeding behaviour traits between two feeding periods that beef cattle received a finisher diet. Crossbred steers (n=851) were used for feeding trials from 2002 to 2009 where the steers received a finisher diet either during the fall–winter season (FP1) or during the winter–spring season (FP2). The steers evaluated in FP2 received a backgrounding diet in FP1. Traits examined include dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), gain: feed ratio (G:F), residual feed intake (RFI), and ultrasound measures of backfat thickness (UBF), rib-eye area (UREA) and marbling (UMB). Others include feeding duration (FD), headdown time (HDT) and feeding frequency (FF). As expected, there was no difference (P=0.90) between the RFI measured in the two periods. The two periods were similar for UBF (P=0.87) and UREA (P=0.25),while DMI, ADG and UMB were greater (P<0.04) in FP2 than in FP1. The FD, HDT and FF were greater (P<0.0001) in FP1 compared with FP2. Heritability estimates were calculated in FP1 and FP2, respectively, for ADG (0.38, 0.28), DMI (0.52, 0.42), RFI (0.16, 0.27), G:F (0.18, 0.33), HDT (0.35, 0.18) and FF (0.26, 0.46). More importantly, genetic correlations between FP1 and FP2 were estimated for DMI (0.61), RFI (0.65) and G:F (0.60). The results may indicate the influence of age or feeding period or both on these traits, which may suggest the need for multi-environment genetic evaluations to identify superior animals.
Cattle Breeds: Extinction or Quasi-Extant?
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2013-08-27) Bett, Rawlynce C.; Okeyo, Mwai A.; Malmfors, Birgitta; Johansson, Kjell; Agaba, Morris; Kugonza, Donald R.; Bhuiyan, A. K. F. H.; Filho, Anibal E. Vercesi; Mariante, Arthur S.; Mujibi, Fidalis D.; Philipsson, Jan
Uniquely selected breeds bred over thousands of years of domestication in a wide range of environments have been declared extinct over the last century. Still more breeds are at risk of becoming extinct and the rate continues to accelerate. Assessing the current status and possible future dynamics of livestock breeds is therefore a critical step in the management of Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR). This study applies a qualitative approach to comprehensively analyze cattle genetic resources in selected countries in order to better understand the risk status of cattle breeds and those that need to be considered extinct and/or quasi-extant. The status of each breed, i.e., not at risk, critical, endangered and extinct, was verified using information available at the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) web site, as well as cattle statistics (where available) and a breed survey. In most examples, breeds listed as extinct have played important roles in the development of new breeds, and should not be classified as extinct, unless proven otherwise, given that even breeds existing in vivo are developing. Therefore, a new risk status quasi-extant for this category of cattle breeds is suggested. In addition, based on the findings of this study, the concept of breed needs to be questioned as relates to it being a good measure of genetic diversity. Further investigations of the situation of cattle breeds (and other livestock species) in more countries/continents using similar categories are deemed necessary.
Comparative Analysis of Communication Channels for Diffusion and Adoption of Quality Protein Maize: The Case of Kathonzweni and Kirinyaga, Kenya
(University of Nairobi, 2015) Wafula, Carolyne K
Despite the use of various communication strategies in Kenya, access and use of agricultural information by rural farming communities and other actors along the agricultural information chain is inadequate to cope with challenges in crop production leading to high levels of poverty. In Kirinyaga and Makueni counties, poverty levels of people living in urban areas are 26 % and 35% respectively, with about 67% of the rural populations living below the poverty line. This study, therefore, investigated how different communication channels used in disseminating new or proven agricultural technologies in Africa by the DONATA project among the smallholder farmers in Kirinyaga in Central and Kathonzweni in Eastern counties of Kenya have influenced the farmers decision to adopt quality protein maize (QPM). Random sampling technique was used to select respondents for the survey and primary data collected using structured questionnaires which involved 210 farmers, comprising of 110 from Kathonzweni and from 100 Kirinyaga. Descriptive statistics, covariance analysis and binary logistic regression were applied through SPSS application to ascertain the factors contributing to diffusion and adoption of QPM technologies. The levels of quality protein maize awareness in Kathonzweni were much higher 100% compared to Kirinyaga 98%. Farmer to farmer and farmer groups in Kirinyaga and extension services in Kathonzweni play a major role in farmer awareness of quality protein maize technologies. The results from the binary logistic regression indicates socio economic characteristics in Kathonzweni and Kirinyaga such as age and marital status play a big role in diffusion and adoption of quality protein maize. Field days in both study regions contributed significantly to increased QPM adoption. Farming was found to be the main source of income with 97.3% in Kathonzweni and 98% Kirinyaga. Lack of seed and climate change were major constraints affecting agricultural production in the study areas. It is therefore recommended that farmer field days, demonstrations, farmer field schools, farmer to farmer and group meetings continue being promoted through increased extension visits, and investing in farmer education via seminars, as vehicles of disseminating agricultural innovations. Information and communication technologies like radio, mobile phone and television should be used to complement the conventional channels which promote access to quality protein maize information. This will increase adoption, hence increased production and high yields which will be part of the solution to food insecurity and raising poverty levels.
Proximate Composition, Energy Contents and Blood Sugar Responses of Stiff Porridge and Rice Meals Consumed in Kenya
(Meru University of Science and Technology., 2017) Ebere Rebecca Aya; Imungi, Jasper Kathenya; Kimani, Violet Nyambura
Abstract The term glycemic index has been used to categorize carbohydrate-rich foods on the basis of their blood sugar raising potential. Despite the existence of a table of glycemic indices of some foods, the glycemic indices of staple foods consumed in Kenya is still very scanty. This study therefore was designed to evaluate the glycemic indices (GI) of rice and stiff or thick porridge (ugali), the most commonly consumed staple foods in Kenya. Ugali is usually served with side dishes of cowpea leaves or beef and rice is usually served with either beans or beef stews among other accompaniments. The foods were analyzed for proximate composition using the AOAC methods. Glycemic index was determined following FAO/WHO recommended methodology. From the results of proximate analyses, it was established that the content of carbohydrates varied in the order: Ugali > rice > beans > cowpea leaves. Glycemic indices followed the order plain rice (77) > ugali and beef (71) > rice and beef (69) > rice and beans = plain ugali (62) > ugali and cowpea leaves (45) > plain beans (44). The GI values for these foods were significantly different (p<0.05). Despite this, all the foods had a high glycemic load (≥20). However, cowpea leaves and beans lowered the GI of ugali and white rice respectively. This GI lowering effect is especially important in the dietary management of diabetes mellitus
The Value of Long-Term, Community-Based Monitoring of Marine Turtle Nesting: A Study in the Lamu Archipelago, Kenya
(Cambridge University Press, 2017-08-01) Olendo, Mike I.; Okemwa, Gladys M.; Munga, Cosmas N.; Mulupi, Lilian K.; Mwasi, Lily D.; Mohamed, Hassan B.; Sibanda, Mxolisi; Ong'anda, Harrison O.
Monitoring of nesting beaches is often the only feasible and low-cost approach for assessing sea turtle populations. We investigated spatio-temporal patterns of sea turtle nesting activity monitored over 17 successive years in the Lamu archipelago, Kenya. Community-based patrols were conducted on 26 stretches of beach clustered in five major locations. A total of 2,021 nests were recorded: 1,971 (97.5%) green turtle Chelonia mydas nests, 31 (1.5%) hawksbill Eretmochelys imbricata nests, 8 (0.4%) olive ridley Lepidochelys olivacea nests and 11 (0.5%) unidentified nests. Nesting occurred year-round, increasing during March–July, when 74% of nests were recorded. A stable trend in mean annual nesting densities was observed in all locations. Mean clutch sizes were 117.7 ± SE 1 eggs (range 20–189) for green turtles, 103 ± SE 6 eggs (range 37–150) for hawksbill turtles, and 103 ± SE 6 eggs (range 80–133) for olive ridley turtles. Curved carapace length for green turtles was 65–125 cm, and mean annual incubation duration was 55.5 ± SE 0.05 days. The mean incubation duration for green turtle nests differed significantly between months and seasons but not locations. The hatching success (pooled data) was 81.3% (n = 1,841) and was higher for in situ nests (81.0 ± SE 1.5%) compared to relocated nests (77.8 ± SE 1.4%). The results highlight the important contribution of community-based monitoring in Kenya to sustaining the sea turtle populations of the Western Indian Ocean region.
Molecular Diversity of a Seemingly Altitude Restricted Ustilago Kamerunensis Isolates in Kenya: A Pathogen of Napier Grass
(American Journal of Molecular Biology, 2018-08) Omayio Dennis O.; Musyimi David M.; Muyekho Francis N.; Ajanga Samuel I.; Midega Charles A. O.; Wekesa Clabe S.; Okoth Patrick; Kariuki Innocent W.
The Central region of Kenya which is the second largest market oriented dairy zone, faces a threat in milk production. The challenge is a disease known as the napier head smut caused by Ustilago kamerunensis. This fungal microorganism is a facultative pathogen which has been reported to cause yield losses in napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) ranging from 25% to 46% across the affected areas. Additionally, there are reports of the continual spread of the disease into neighbouring county of Nakuru in Rift-Valley region which is the leading milk producing zone in the country. This scenario of spread is worrying combined with observation of variations in damage levels of napier grass clones across the five counties of Central Kenya. These observations led to the hypothesis that possible differences might be existing among the Ustilago kamerunensis variants in Kenya. Further, the differences in biomass yield losses that are within a certain percentage range mentioned-above, seemed to support the existence of possible differences. Therefore, to inform effective integrated management strategies of the pathogen in case it’s co-evolving, this study sought to determine the molecular differences s might be existing among the Ustilago kamerunensis variants in Kenya. Further, the differences in biomass yield losses that are within a certain percentage range mentioned-above, seemed to support the existence of possible differences. Therefore, to inform effective integrated management strategies of the pathogen in case it’s co-evolving, this study sought to determine the molecular differences of Ustilago kamerunensis isolates in affected counties using ITS 1 and 2 regions which are spanned by 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene. The Ustilago kamerunensis propagules were systematically collected from affected counties’ hot spot areas for sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The study revealed the most affected areas to be within the mean altitude level of 1988.17 ± 71.97 metres above sea level. Further, differences in the growth in vitro and molecular characteristics of the seeming altitude restricted isolates were observed. The Kiambu, Nyandarau and Nakuru counties isolates clustered together, whereas those of Murang’a, Nyeri and Kirinyaga formed another clade. The sequences of sixteen Ustilago kamerunensis isolates were deposited in GenBank with accession numbers ranging from MG722754 to MG722769. The results suggest the existence of possible genetic divergence of the isolates which might be reflected in their pathogenic potential too. Effective integration of management strategies is vital towards slowing the phenomenon for an optimal mitigation of the disease in Kenya.
Distribution of Rotavirus Genotypes among Children with Diarrhea Prior to Vaccine Introduction in Western Kenya
(Journal of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, 2019-02-16) Ochieng, John B; Khagayi, Sammy; Ogwel, Billy; Onkoba, Reuben; Apondi, Evans; Juma, Jane; Seheri, Mapaseka; Peenze, Ina; Onyango, Clayton; Hunsperger, Elizabeth; Tabu, Collins; Kibet, Sergon; Omore, Richard; Odhiambo, Frank; Mphahlele, Jeffrey; Verani, Jennifer R; Fields, Barry; Bigogo, Godfrey; Laserson, Kayla F; Tate, Jacqueline E; Mwenda, Jason M; Breiman, Robert F
Background: Group A rotavirus is the leading cause of diarrhea hospitalization among children worldwide. Most fatal rotavirus-associated diarrhea cases among children under 5 years occur in Africa and Asia. We investigated the molecular epidemiology of circulating rotavirus strains among children less than 5 years in western Kenya to provide baseline data on the prevalence of each genotype prior to the introduction of monovalent rotavirus vaccine in Kenya. Methods: From January 2010 to December 2013, stool samples were collected from 1677 children with acute gastroenteritis. All specimens were transported to Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research, Enterics Laboratory and tested for rotavirus antigens using enzyme immunoassay. Rotavirus dsRNA was extracted from 234 simple randomly selected EIA positive stool samples using QIAamp viral RNA mini kit and tested by semi-nested RT-PCR for G and P genotypes using type-specific primers. The PCR products were analyzed by gel electrophoresis. Chi-square test was used to test the association between rotavirus genotypes and age. Results: Of the 1677 stool samples tested, 401 (23.9%) were positive for group A rotavirus antigen. Of the 234 rotavirus dsRNA extractions analyzed by PCR, 219 (93.6%) and 193 (82.5%) typed positive for at least one of the VP7 genotypes (G type) and VP4 genotypes (P types), respectively. Of the typeable, 19 were mixed G types and P types. However, 15 VP7 and 41 VP4 were nontypeable. The predominant genotypes detected included G1 (30%), G9 (27%), G8 (10%) and G3 (9%) for the G types, and P[8] (33%) and P[6] (30%) for the P types. The predominant combinations were: G1P[8] (15%), G9P[8] (12%) and G3P[6] (8%) which combined accounted for 35% of the genotypes detected. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the genotype diversity and dominance of G1, G3, G8 and G9 in combination with P[6] and P[8] as the most common genotypes associated with rotavirus gastroenteritis in this population. Continuous surveillance is necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the vaccine and shifts among the circulating genotypes in this region.
In Vitro and In Vivo Antimalarial Activity of Nigella Sativa L. Extracts
(Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2019-12) Oyweri Job; Mohammed Awadh; Udu Rahma; Gathirwa Jeremiah; Too Edwin; Omondi Protus; Kimani Francis; Hashim Suhaila; Abubakar Laila
The Arabs, Asians and, Traditional Health Practitioners in Mombasa county found in Kenya have been using Nigella sativa L. seeds to traditionally manage malaria associated symptoms that is, headache, fever, chills, loss of appetite among others. The present study investigated in vitro antiplasmodial, in vivo antimalarial activities and safety of different extracts of N. sativa. Five extracts obtained via aqueous extraction and sequential extraction using hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol were tested against in vitro cultures of Plasmodium falciparum. The most active extracts (methanolic and ethyl acetate) were assessed for cytotoxicity and toxicity. The two active extracts were evaluated in vivo against Plasmodium berghei ANKA strain at 500, 250 and 125 mg/kg/day. On in vitro assay, methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts showed good activity with IC50 of 80.48±12.29 and 69.81±5.24 µg/ml against W2 strain and 31.93±4.31 and 53.79±6.02 µg/ml against D6 strain, respectively. The extracts exhibited weak cytotoxicity on Vero cells and high parasitemia suppression of 75.52 and 75.30% at 500 mg/kg dose of methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts respectively. Notably, there was significant decrease (p<0.001) in activity with lower doses of the extracts. The results explain thetraditional use of this plant in the Middle East and Mombasa County
Solid Wastes Provide Breeding Sites, Burrows, and Food for Biological Disease Vectors, and Urban Zoonotic Reservoirs: A Call to Action for Solutions-Based Research
(Frontiers in Public Health, 2020-01-17) Krystosik, Amy; Njoroge, Gathenji; Odhiambo, Lorriane; Forsyth, Jenna E.; Mutuku, Francis; LaBeaud, A. Desiree
Background: Infectious disease epidemiology and planetary health literature often cite solid waste and plastic pollution as risk factors for vector-borne diseases and urban zoonoses; however, no rigorous reviews of the risks to human health have been published since 1994. This paper aims to identify research gaps and outline potential solutions to interrupt the vicious cycle of solid wastes; disease vectors and reservoirs; infection and disease; and poverty. Methods: We searched peer-reviewed publications from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Stanford Searchworks, and references from relevant articles using the search terms (“disease” OR “epidemiology”) AND (“plastic pollution,” “garbage,” and “trash,” “rubbish,” “refuse,” OR “solid waste”). Abstracts and reports from meetings were included only when they related directly to previously published work. Only articles published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese through 2018 were included, with a focus on post-1994, after the last comprehensive review was published. Cancer, diabetes, and food chain-specific articles were outside the scope and excluded. After completing the literature review, we further limited the literature to “urban zoonotic and biological vector-borne diseases” or to “zoonotic and biological vector-borne diseases of the urban environment.” Results: Urban biological vector-borne diseases, especially Aedes-borne diseases, are associated with solid waste accumulation but vector preferences vary over season and region. Urban zoonosis, especially rodent and canine disease reservoirs, are associated with solid waste in urban settings, especially when garbage accumulates over time, creating burrowing sites and food for reservoirs. Although evidence suggests the link between plastic pollution/solid waste and human disease, measurements are not standardized, confounders are not rigorously controlled, and the quality of evidence varies. Here we propose a framework for solutions-based research in three areas: innovation, education, and policy. Conclusions: Disease epidemics are increasing in scope and scale with urban populations growing, climate change providing newly suitable vector climates, and immunologically naïve populations becoming newly exposed. Sustainable solid waste management is crucial to prevention, specifically in urban environments that favor urban vectors such as Aedes species. We propose that next steps should include more robust epidemiological measurements and propose a framework for solutions-based research.
Examining Which Clinicians Provide Admission Hospital Care in a High Mortality Setting and Their Adherence to Guidelines: An Observational Study in 13 Hospitals
(BMJ, 2020-03-12) Ogero, Morris; Akech, Samuel; Malla, Lucas; Agweyu, Ambrose; Irimu, Grace; English, Mike
Background: We explored who actually provides most admission care in hospitals offering supervised experiential training to graduating clinicians in a high mortality setting where practices deviate from guideline recommendations. Methods: We used a large observational data set from 13 Kenyan county hospitals from November 2015 through November 2018 where patients were linked to admitting clinicians. We explored guideline adherence after creating a cumulative correctness of Paediatric Admission Quality of Care (cPAQC) score on a 5-point scale (0–4) in which points represent correct, sequential progress in providing care perfectly adherent to guidelines comprising admission assessment, diagnosis and treatment. At the point where guideline adherence declined the most we dichotomised the cPAQC score and used multilevel logistic regression models to explore whether clinician and patient-level factors influence adherence. Results There were 1489 clinicians who could be linked to 53 003 patients over a period of 3 years. Patients were rarely admitted by fully qualified clinicians and predominantly by preregistration medical officer interns (MOI, 46%) and diploma level clinical officer interns (COI, 41%) with a median of 28 MOI (range 11–68) and 52 COI (range 5–160) offering care per study hospital. The cPAQC scores suggest that perfect guideline adherence is found in ≤12% of children with malaria, pneumonia or diarrhoea with dehydration. MOIs were more adherent to guidelines than COI (adjusted OR 1.19 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.34)) but multimorbidity was significantly associated with lower guideline adherence. Conclusion Over 85% of admissions to hospitals in high mortality settings that offer experiential training in Kenya are conducted by preregistration clinicians. Clinical assessment is good but classifying severity of illness in accordance with guideline recommendations is a challenge. Adherence by MOI with 6 years’ training is better than COI with 3 years’ training, performance does not seem to improve during their 3 months of paediatric rotations.
Urea-molasses Pre-treatment to Enhance Nitrogen Gain, Digestibility, Intake and Milk Yield from Crop-Residues in Smallholder Dairy Farms in Eastern Africa
(Asian Journal of Research in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 2020-08-30) Mudavadi O.P; Emmanuel M.A; Lukuyu Ben A; Alphonse H; Ngunga D.P; Charles G; Namasake M; Woldemeskel Endalkachew
Effects of Seasonality on Water, Feed, Milk Yield and Reproductive Performance of Dairy Cows in Smallholder Farms in Eastern Africa
(NM-AIST, 2020-08-30) Ongadi Patrick; Mpolya Abraham; Gachuiri Charles; Muyekho Francis
Ongadi Patrick Mudavadi, Mpolya Abraham Emmanuel, Gachuiri Charles, Muyekho Francis Namasake and Lukuyu Adubwa Bernard Aim: The smallholder dairy industry in Eastern Africa continues to be characterized by seasonality driven milk fluctuations and reproductive performance of dairy cows. In this review, we present important effects of changes in seasons on water, feed quantity and quality, milk yield and reproductive performance of dairy cows in smallholder dairy farms. Methods: We considered peer-reviewed publications from 1990 to 2019, and extracted any information pertaining to the effects and intensity of changes in seasons and implications on water, feed quality and quantity, milk yield and reproductive performance. Results: Seasonal variation in rainfall, characteristic of the East Africa region, is strongly reflected in cropping and feeding calendars. Hence, 305-days lactation milk production per cow in Eastern Africa ranges from 850-3150 kg/cow/year, which has not increased, partly because of lack of improvement in nutrition and management, but also due to slow genetic selection of breeds that matches available feed to milk yield and reproductive performance. High milk fluctuations arise mostly because of farmers’ dependence on rainfall for feed production and rarely make provisions for preserving fodder for the dry season, as there isn’t adequate forage (fodder and pasture) even during the wet season. Conclusion: For the smallholder dairy farmers to remain competitive, it is important to increase the dairy value chain capability to manage implications of changes in seasons on milk yield and reproduction. Therefore, in order to overcome the current seasonal changes, we have discussed technological interventions in adoption of practical, sustainable farmer-led strategies for optimizing water and feed production, milk yield and reproductive performance in Eastern Africa. We have also identified knowledge gaps where research is needed to guide dairy value chain stakeholders on how to ameliorate current seasonal changes or that we expect will occur in the future.
Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Asymptomatic Plasmodium Falciparum Infection and Anemia Among Pregnant Women at the first Antenatal Care Visit: A Hospital Based Cross-Sectional Study in Kwale County, Kenya
(PLOS ONE, 2020-10-08) Nyamu, Gibson Waweru; Kihara, Jimmy Hussein; Oyugi, Elvis Omondi; Omballa, Victor; El-Busaidy, Hajara; Jeza, Victor Tunje
Background: Prevalence of Prevalence of malaria in pregnancy (MiP) in Kenya ranges from 9% to 18%. We estimated the prevalence and factors associated with MiP and anemia in pregnancy (AiP) among asymptomatic women attending antenatal care (ANC) visits. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study among pregnant women attending ANC at Msambweni Hospital, between September 2018 and February 2019. Data was collected and analyzed in Epi Info 7. Descriptive statistics were calculated and we compared MiP and AiP in asymptomatic cases to those without either condition. Adjusted prevalence Odds odds ratios (aPOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to identify factors associated with asymptomatic MiP and AiP. Results: We interviewed 308 study participants; their mean age was 26.6 years (± 5.8 years), mean gestational age was 21.8 weeks (± 6.0 weeks), 173 (56.2%) were in the second trimester of pregnancy, 12.9% (40/308) had MiP and 62.7% had AiP. Women who were aged ≤ 20 years had three times likelihood of developing MiP (aPOR = 3.1 Cl: 1.3–7.35) compared to those aged >20 years old. The likelihood of AiP was higher among women with gestational age ≥ 16 weeks (aPOR = 3.9, CI: 1.96–7.75), those with parasitemia (aPOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.31–8.18), those in third trimester of pregnancy (aPOR = 2.6, 95% CI:1.40–4.96) and those who reported eating soil as a craving during pregnancy (aPOR = 1.9, 95%CI:1.15–3.29). Conclusions: Majority of the women had asymptomatic MiP and AiP. MiP was observed in one tenth of all study participants. Asymptomatic MiP was associated with younger age while AiP was associated with gestational age parasitemia, and soil consumption as a craving during pregnancy.
Participatory Evaluation and Yield Determination of Climate-smart Brachiaria Grasses for Improving Livestock Production among the Farmers in Embu and Meru Counties
(Asian Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 2021-02-03) Muriithi Catherine; Nganga Beatrice; Kagete Eliud; Njarui Donald; Micheni Alfred
Aims: To introduce brachiaria grasses in Meru and Embu Counties to increase the range of fodder/forage varieties available to smallholders through the use of climate-smart brachiaria grasses for increased income. The project also aimed at identifying the best brachiaria varieties suitable for the target Agro-Ecological ones through evaluation by the farmers and yield assessment. Study Design: Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Embu and Meru Counties during the short rains of 2015. Methodology: Three varieties of brachiaria were introduced in the short rains of 2015 in KALRO Embu, Geeto Igoji in Meru, and Embu County. These were Brachiaria decumbense -Cultivar Basilisk, Brachiaria brizantha- Cultivar BRS Piata and Brachiaria brizantha- Cultivar Toledo. Plots of 5x5m were planted and replicated three times using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) to increase the range of fodder/forage varieties available to smallholder and assess the yield and acceptability of the different brachiaria grasses varieties. The three varieties were planted in the mega demonstration sites. The grass performance was analyzed through pairwise ranking and the grass with the best attributes was selected. Yield data was also collected. Results: After ranking, the results indicated that the rate of growth and the amount of biomass as the most important attributes followed by the animals' response after feeding and the rate of rejuvenation after harvesting respectively. Using the attributes, the group members concluded that Brachiaria decumbense- Cultivar basilisk was the best followed by brachiaria brizantha- Cultivar piata and finally brachiaria brizantha- Cultivar Toledo. Conclusion: In conclusion, based on the attributes, the best brachiaria varieties for use in Embu and Meru Countries are Brachiaria decumbense –Cultivar Basilisk and Brachiaria brizanthaCultivar Toledo. Based on yield, Brachiaria brizantha- Cultivar Toledo is the best in Embu County while Brachiaria brizantha- Cultivar Basilisk is the best in Meru County

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