Theses and Dissertations

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ACOUSTIC ANALYSIS OF EKEGUSII VOWELS AND STOPS
(2020-10) OTIENO NYANSERA PETER
Preceding a theoretical exploration of issues in a language is a basic research. Through such basic descriptive study, the vitality of the language is aided and documented. This is vital especially for the less studied languages such as EkeGusii that has not been phonetically studied and documented especially using scientific methods. Following Peterson and Barney (1952), this work is an acoustic study of the vowels and voiceless stops of Ekegusii. Its goal is to transcend the impressionistic descriptions previously in the 1960s by Whiteley (1965) and Guthrie (1967). Specifically, the work explores the seven vowels of Ekegusii /i e ɛ a ɔ o u/ along with the intervening voiceless stops /p t k/ within the Source-Filter Theory of sound production. The purpose of this study is to give a complete description of the vowels and stops and document them for reference by various fields from linguistics to machine translation. The scope of impressionistic phonetics is limited by capabilities of human senses and is not verifiable while experimental phonetics like this present study extends and backs-up impressionistic description. The main objective of this study is to give a complete description of the acoustic qualities of the vowels and stop consonants from the oral data got from a purposively selected sample of twelve (four males, four females and four children), bearing in mind their speech mannerisms, geographical and dialectal considerations. Audio data was recorded as the informants read out word lists and carrier phrases bearing target sounds into a microphone connected to a computer running on Praat sampled at 44100 Hz. Analysis of audio data is primarily done using Praat software. Further, quantitative data analyses were done using MS-Excel spread sheets and SPSS with the results presented in tables, charts and written descriptions for each sound, each subject and group. The study mainly found out that EkeGusii adopts a seven vowel system with length contrast making the vowels to be phonologically fourteen. The vowels also display age, sex and dialectal variations. Results for stop consonants show that stops can be discriminated by features such as voice-onset-time, burst intensity and stop duration. Significantly, the research findings provide useful basis for codification and documentation of EkeGusii phonetics for the two dialects.
ADOPTION OF TALENT MANAGEMENT FOR COMPETITIVENESS AMONG FIVE – STAR HOTELS IN NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
(2020-10) OMOKE JAPHETH OMAE (BSC; HTM)
The study sought to assess the adoption of talent management to competitiveness among five–star hotels in Nairobi City County. The concept of talent management comprises strategies for attraction, selection, development, engagement, and retention of knowledge and talented individuals. These individuals can create quality, diverse and exceptional products that form the competitiveness of the five-star hotels. The competitiveness of the hospitality industry in Kenya is held back due to a shortage of talent, loss of talent, and critical knowledge to other industries. The study investigated; conceptualization of talent management, hospitality core competencies required in talent, inherent approaches used in each talent management practices, the extent of talent management adoption, outcomes of talent management, and the relationship between talent management among five–star hotels in Nairobi City County. The study adopted a mixed-method research design and specifically a QUAN + qual research approach. Purposive sampling was used to select fivestar hotels in Nairobi City County and the hotel executives’ respondents. A simple random sampling technique was used to select guest participants. Data were collected from 145 participants using a semi-structured questionnaire, Servqual structured questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. The data analysis was done using; descriptive statistics, content analysis, thematic analysis, and inferential statistics. Linear regression results revealed that, among the significant predictors (talent selection, talent engagement, hospitality core competencies, talent and knowledge retention, and talent development), selection was the most significant. It meant that their competitiveness is hinged on the selection of talented individuals. Null hypotheses on the hospitality core competencies (β= -0.195, p =0.020), talent attraction approaches (β = -0.202, p= 0.009), talent engagement approaches (β = - 0.224, p= 0.002), talent and knowledge retention approaches (β = -0.189, p= 0.024) were rejected and their impact was not enough to influence competitiveness positively. Null hypotheses on talent selection approaches (β = 0.512, p= 0.001), talent development approaches (β = 0.296, p= 0.002) and outcomes of talent management (β = 2.061, p= 0.018) were also rejected and they impacted competitiveness positively. The null hypothesis on the extent of talent management adoption (β = 4.414, p= 0.130) was maintained indicating that it did not influence competitiveness. Null hypothesis on the relationship between talent management and the competitiveness of five–star hotels; an executives’ perspective was rejected (β = 1.094, p= 0.001). A second null hypothesis on the relationship between talent management and the competitiveness of five–star hotels; a guests’ perspective was rejected (r = -0.277, p =0.009) but showed the need for improvement on talent management aspects to positively affect competitiveness. This thesis recommends that five-star hotels conceptualise talent management from the perspective of exclusive subject and positions. Hotels also need to enrich hospitality core competencies so that they create quality and diverse sustainable products and services to serve a wider clientele. Additionally, hotels need to enhance their employee brands to boost employee value proposition so that talent is attracted. Talent engagement levels also need to be improved to draw valuable knowledge and effort from talent. The retention of talent and protection of tacit knowledge ought to be improved for greater competitiveness. Talent policies and budgets are put in place. This study has been conducted among the management teams and guests in five-star hotels; it is recommended that a related study is conducted on individuals considered talent in the same hotels
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HEAD TEACHERS’ LEADERSHIP STYLES AND PUPILS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MALINDI SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
(2016-11) FREDER MWALUNGO KATUNDA
This study aimed at investigating the relationship between head teachers’ leadership styles on pupils’ academic performance in public primary schools in Malindi Sub County, Kenya. More often than not, head teachers find themselves on the receiving end of poor performance in public primary schools. Most parents tend to attribute poor performance of their children to head teacher’s leadership styles. The objectives of the study were to: find out the relationship between democratic leadership style and pupils’ academic performance; determine relationship between the autocratic leadership style and pupils’ academic performance; find out the relationship between the transformative leadership styles and pupils’ academic performance; and determine the leadership the relationship between the transactional leadership styles and pupils’ academic performance. This study was based on Fiedler’s contingency theory and rationale theory of performance. quantitative methods were used in this study. The study adopted the correlational research design that sought to measure the relationship between the variables. The study targeted a population of 750 teachers and head teachers from 30 public primary schools in Malindi Sub County. The sample was 200 participants consisting of 192 teachers and 8 head teachers. The sample was obtained through stratified sampling to establish the number of head teachers and teachers to include in the study sample. Simple random sampling was used to select 8 head teachers from 30 schools and 192 teachers from 720 teachers. Questionnaires were used; one for teachers and another for head teachers to collect data. Pilot study was carried out in two neighbouring schools which were not included in the study. The validity of the instruments was ascertained by the supervisor and two other lecturers who gave verdict on their appropriateness. The reliability was verified by using the test retest method whereby Pearson Product Moment correlation was 0.75. To cover ethical issues, clearance was done with Mount Kenya University and a permit was obtained from NACOSTI and official letters from the County Director of Education and the District Education Officer. The participants signed informed consent forms and were assured of their privacy and confidentiality. The data was analyzed quantitatively using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings established that independent variables had positive and significant relationship with pupils’ academic performance since the estimated Pearson Linear correlation coefficient statistic was significant at the 99% level for all the variables (Sig.<.01, r>.9). All the null hypotheses filed to be accepted. The study concludes that from the three tests on a hypothesis that is correlation, regression and coefficient, all indicates rejection of the null hypothesis paving a way for alternative hypothesis. The study recommends that head teachers ought to be given refresher courses on appropriate leadership styles to be applied in their institutions. The ministry of education should allow teachers to teach in one school for at most 10 years so as to gain experience before transferring to another school. Quality assurance officers needed to be visiting schools regularly to establish level of performance and offer necessary intervention where things are not in order. The study findings are expected to provide useful information to head teachers in helping them to re-examine and appraise their own leadership styles and hence make adjustment where necessary.
ANTIDIABETIC PROPERTIES AND SAFETY OF AQUEOUS EXTRACTS OF TRICITICUM AESTIVUM, HORDEUM VULGARE, URTICA MASSAICA AND CYNANCHUM VIMINALE IN RAT MODEL
(2021-03) NJOROGE GIDEON KIMANI
The primary goal in the management of diabetes mellitus is to realize normoglycemia as much as possible. In conventional medicine, oral insulin secretagogues and parenteral insulin are used as hypoglycemic agents. However, they have known side effects such as insidious hypoglycemia, lactic acidosis, liver injury and neurological deficit. On the other hand, numerous phytotherapeutics that have been used in traditional, complimentary or alternative medicine for the treatment of diabetes have not been evaluated for their effectiveness and or their toxicity effects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vivo glycemic and toxicity effects of aqueous extracts of Triticum aestivum, Hordeum vulgare, Urtica massaica and Cynanchum viminale. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneally administering 10% alloxan monohydrate into Wistar rats. Rats with fasting blood glucose levels above 200 mg/L 72 hr post alloxan administration were used in this study to evaluate efficacy of doses of aqueous plants extracts against glibenclamide and insulin as reference drugs. Toxicity studies were done by oral or intraperitoneal administration of doses of aqueous plant extracts for 28 days. The rats were euthenized and blood taken for hematological and biochemical studies. Gross and relative organ weights were taken. Presence of minerals, phytonutrients and phytochemicals in the plants extracts was also established. A p < 0.05 was consindered statistically significant. The results obtained in this study indicates that both orally and intraperitoneally administered aqueous plants extracts used in this study exhibited varying degrees of blood glucose lowering effects. When orally administered, all the plants extracts did not have significant different effect on cardiac and pancreatic systems, liver and kidneys relative to the control. Significant variations in some gross organ and relative organ weights between the extracts administered and control rats though observed were not supported by haematological or biochemical changes hence not pathologically associated. However, statistically significant effects were recorded when some of the plants extracts were intraperitoneally administered compared to the controls. Flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, steroids, cardiac glycosides, minerals and vitamins were found to be present in the aqueous plants extracts. In conclusion, the aqueous plants extracts evaluated in this study have demonstrated blood glucose reduction properties and validates their use in control and mitigation of diabetes mellitus. Further, results obtained on phytonutrients and bioactive secondary metaboloites assay indicate the presence of various functional groups. The synergistic activities of the various compounds present in the aqueous plants extracts in this study are attributable to the plant’s observed blood glucose lowering effects. When orally taken, none of the logarithmic doses of either of the plants extracts demonstrated any toxicity effects while some of the plants extracts exhibited toxicity when intraperitoneally administered. Thus, based on the findings of this study, continued use of the plants extracts and following proper monitoring and evaluation protocol in management of diabetes mellitus is recommended. However, caution should be observed in intraperitoneal administration of some of the extracts. Further isolation and structural characterization of the active constituents of phytochemicals of the plants and ellucidation of the actual mode of action is recommended. Translational clinical reseach is equally recommended on the background of the data obtained in this study to facilitate advances and the integration of the studied alternative botanical therapies for treating diabetes into modern medicine.
ASSESSMENT OF RADIOACTIVITY CONCENTRATION AND RADIATION HAZARDS INDEX FOR BUILDING MATERIALS USED IN BABADOGO ESTATE, NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
(2022-05) AMUKAH KENNETH OBORAH,
Natural radioactive materials in certain conditions can get to hazardous radiological level. Some of these hazards are not prone to control as well as, they are usually referred to as the background radiation. The aim of my research work is to evaluate natural radioactivity concentration and radiological impacts on representative sampled building materials collected from different locations in Babadogo estate within Nairobi City County. The selected samples were crushed, sieved dried and store for four weeks after which, analysis done using gamma ray spectrometer was put into action for spectral data acquisition then analysis. The activity concentration levels of 238U, 232Th and 40K for the selected samples of building materials was measured by the use of gamma- ray spectrometry method. Radiological parameters were evaluated based on the prerequisite activity concentration obtained. The analyzed data compared with the standard acceptable values. The activity concentration in 40K varied from 55±3 to 2647±132 Bq/kg giving average value of 831 ±42 Bq/kg, 238U varied from 39±2 to 3602±180Bq/kg giving average figures of 378±19Bqkg¯1 and 232Th ranged from 5.000±0.300 to 4213±211Bqkg¯1 giving mean figure of 290±15Bq/kg . Calculated mean figures for activity concentration surpassed the world mean figures of 420Bq/kg, 33Bq/kg, 45Bq/kg in 40K, 238U and 232Th respectively. Absorbed dose rate calculated ranges between 73±4 and 4777±239nGyh¯1 having average value of 540±27nGyh¯1 .The mean number for the absorbed dose rate was above the world acceptable mean value of 54nGyh¯1 . The calculated annual effective dose rate varied from 0.040±0.002mSvy¯1 to 2.340±0.117mSvy¯1 having average figure of 0.260±0.013mSvy¯1 ,which was above the world average of 0.070mSvy¯1 but below the maximum dose constraint of 1mSvy¯1 .These results show that building materials in Babadogo estate are safe and can be used for construction of buildings and thus can be continued using as further research is done on other building materials not covered in my research work.
ASSESSMENT OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY IN KENYA TO FORECAST LOCAL PRODUCTION SUFFICIENCY
(2017-10) SARAH KADESA VUGIGI
The World Health Organization’s global strategy on public health aims to support Member States to improve access to essential medicines. The desire of Kenya Government to implement this is expressed by formulation of Kenya National Pharmaceutical Policy (2010) which encourages local production of essential medicines for self-sufficiency. The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Kenya is engaged in production of various types of dosage forms but its capacity and capability to produce essential medicines for Kenyans have not been determined. The aim of this study was to assess the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Kenya to forecast local production sufficiency. This was attained by evaluating the manufacturing capability, production capacities and compliance with international marketing authorization standard of the Kenyan pharmaceutical industry. The 24 licensed manufacturers of medicines for human use were assessed. Data was collected on the current drug situation in Kenya by scanning Pharmacy and Poisons Board database to determine range of products that are registered in Kenya. Local pharmaceutical manufacturer’s product lists, Kenya Essential Medicines list and pharmaceutical tender lists of three major procurers in Kenya (Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, Kenyatta National Hospital and Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies) were examined to establish the proportion of products which was manufactured locally. Prices competitiveness and market share of local products were evaluated and subsequently, pharmaceutical equivalents of 150 locally manufactured essential medicines were determined. Data on production capacity for 5 years (2010-2014) and compliance of facilities with good manufacturing practices standard and other prerequisites of marketing authorization was obtained using a structured questionnaire. Results showed that solid dosage forms were majority (54.9 %) of local products and sterile preparations were minority (2.7 %). Locally manufactured products accounted for 14.5 % of registered and 21.5 % of retained products. Local firms manufactured 38.4 % of products listed as essential medicines and 55.6 %, 24.5 % and 21.8 %, respectively, of pharmaceutical products procured by Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, Kenyatta National Hospital and Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies. The overall percentage of local pharmaceutical equivalents was 32.5 % for registered products. There was no variation between mean prices of local and imported pharmaceutical equivalents. Scatter diagrams demonstrated that imported pharmaceutical products comprised both low and highly priced brands. The overall utilized production capacity (two shifts) was 21.5 %; tablets (24.1 %), capsules (12.8 %), liquids (25.3 %), dry syrups (21.8 %), external preparations (21.3 %) and oral rehydration salts (23.6 %). This study projected the year for self-sufficiency in non-sterile medicines produced in the local industry as 2043. Good manufacturing practices standard was satisfactory at 11 facilities while the rest were striving to achieve compliance. Research and development of new products was limited in most facilities with 1 % of the workforce deployed in this department. It is concluded from this study that Kenya depends heavily on imported drugs for her essential medicines needs. Majority of local products were less competitive than imported products and production capacity was underutilized. Majority of manufacturers adhered to current good manufacturing practice standards but were inadequate in research. This study recommends augmentation of research and development by the local pharmaceutical industry to generate new products. In addition, substantial government support is required to propel the industry to improve product range, product competitiveness and production capacity utilization.
ASSESSMENT OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY IN KENYA TO FORECAST LOCAL PRODUCTION SUFFICIENCY
(2017-10) SARAH KADESA VUGIGI
The World Health Organization’s global strategy on public health aims to support Member States to improve access to essential medicines. The desire of Kenya Government to implement this is expressed by formulation of Kenya National Pharmaceutical Policy (2010) which encourages local production of essential medicines for self-sufficiency. The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Kenya is engaged in production of various types of dosage forms but its capacity and capability to produce essential medicines for Kenyans have not been determined. The aim of this study was to assess the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Kenya to forecast local production sufficiency. This was attained by evaluating the manufacturing capability, production capacities and compliance with international marketing authorization standard of the Kenyan pharmaceutical industry. The 24 licensed manufacturers of medicines for human use were assessed. Data was collected on the current drug situation in Kenya by scanning Pharmacy and Poisons Board database to determine range of products that are registered in Kenya. Local pharmaceutical manufacturer’s product lists, Kenya Essential Medicines list and pharmaceutical tender lists of three major procurers in Kenya (Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, Kenyatta National Hospital and Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies) were examined to establish the proportion of products which was manufactured locally. Prices competitiveness and market share of local products were evaluated and subsequently, pharmaceutical equivalents of 150 locally manufactured essential medicines were determined. Data on production capacity for 5 years (2010-2014) and compliance of facilities with good manufacturing practices standard and other prerequisites of marketing authorization was obtained using a structured questionnaire. Results showed that solid dosage forms were majority (54.9 %) of local products and sterile preparations were minority (2.7 %). Locally manufactured products accounted for 14.5 % of registered and 21.5 % of retained products. Local firms manufactured 38.4 % of products listed as essential medicines and 55.6 %, 24.5 % and 21.8 %, respectively, of pharmaceutical products procured by Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, Kenyatta National Hospital and Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies. The overall percentage of local pharmaceutical equivalents was 32.5 % for registered products. There was no variation between mean prices of local and imported pharmaceutical equivalents. Scatter diagrams demonstrated that imported pharmaceutical products comprised both low and highly priced brands. The overall utilized production capacity (two shifts) was 21.5 %; tablets (24.1 %), capsules (12.8 %), liquids (25.3 %), dry syrups (21.8 %), external preparations (21.3 %) and oral rehydration salts (23.6 %). This study projected the year for self-sufficiency in non-sterile medicines produced in the local industry as 2043. Good manufacturing practices standard was satisfactory at 11 facilities while the rest were striving to achieve compliance. Research and development of new products was limited in most facilities with 1 % of the workforce deployed in this department. It is concluded from this study that Kenya depends heavily on imported drugs for her essential medicines needs. Majority of local products were less competitive than imported products and production capacity was underutilized. Majority of manufacturers adhered to current good manufacturing practice standards but were inadequate in research. This study recommends augmentation of research and development by the local pharmaceutical industry to generate new products. In addition, substantial government support is required to propel the industry to improve product range, product competitiveness and production capacity utilization.
BIOEFFICACY OF ORGANIC EXTRACTS OF FISH POISON BUSH (GNIDIA GLAUCA, FRESEN) AGAINST COWPEA WEAVIL (CALLOSOBRUCHUS MACULATUS FABRICIUS)
(2018-11) WILHELMY MARION JEBET
Cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus) is a major pests of stored cowpea in the tropical region of the world. In Kenya, the damage caused by C. maculatus impacts negatively on its economic and nutritional values and contributes to food insecurity. The widely adopted use of chemical pesticides is marred with health and environmental hazards. Global concern on synthetic chemicals has led to heightened restrictions and limitations on their use. This, therefore, has prompted the search for alternatives to synthetic pesticides. New studies are focusing on the use of botanicals as a novel approach to the management of pests. Gnidia glauca has been exploited by local people in control of post-harvest pests. However, no scientific research has been undertaken to evaluate its potential anti-insect properties. In this study, four organic leaf extracts of G. glauca (methanol, ethyl acetate, DCM and blend) were evaluated for contact toxicity, oviposition deterrence, inhibition of progeny emergence and repellency against cowpea weevil. The plant leaves were collected from Embu County, Kenya. The samples were prepared, extracted and investigation carried out under ambient laboratory conditions. The experimental design entailed five test concentrations (2g/100ml, 4g/100m, 6g/100ml, 8g/100ml, and 10g/100ml) of each extract, the untreated control, the solvent control and the positive control-Actellic. Each bioassay had four replications. Adult weevils (1-3 days old) were exposed to the extracts and mortality was monitored daily for the first four days. Subsequently, oviposition deterrence was assessed on the 15th day while inhibition of progeny emergence was evaluated on the 49th-day post-treatment. Extract repellency was assessed for the first 6 hours after treatment. Screening for plants phytochemicals was conducted using the standard recommended procedures. The results of this study revealed all G. glauca extracts, to a varied extent, induced mortality on C. maculatus. Mortality was concentration and exposure time dependent. Highest mortality of 89.74% was recorded with 10g/100ml ethyl acetate extract 96 hours post-treatment. The extracts significantly deterred oviposition with the 10g/100ml concentration of ethyl acetate, DCMand blend statistically (p>0.05) comparable to the activity of synthetic pesticide. All the extracts were found effective in inhibition of progeny emergence. Ethyl acetate extract at the test dose of 10g/100ml demonstrated the highest inhibition of 99.3% while the least inhibition of 9.03% was exhibited by 2g/100ml methanol extract. G. glauca extracts proved to be attractant of C. maculatus rather than repellant, none of the extract concentration attained repellency greater than 50%. Results also showed that the extracts had tannins, phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides and steroids which have been associated with insect control properties. It was therefore concluded that the plant extracts, possess bioactivities against Callosobruchus maculatus on the tested parameters of contact toxicity, oviposition deterrence, inhibition of progeny emergence and repellency. Hence the studied extracts can further be purified and developed into the plant-derived bio-pesticides to control C. maculatus.
BIOEFFICACY OF ORGANIC EXTRACTS OF FISH POISON BUSH (GNIDIA GLAUCA, FRESEN) AGAINST COWPEA WEAVIL (CALLOSOBRUCHUS MACULATUS, FABRICIUS)
(2018-11) WILHELMY MARION JEBET
Cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus) is a major pests of stored cowpea in the tropical region of the world. In Kenya, the damage caused by C. maculatus impacts negatively on its economic and nutritional values and contributes to food insecurity. The widely adopted use of chemical pesticides is marred with health and environmental hazards. Global concern on synthetic chemicals has led to heightened restrictions and limitations on their use. This, therefore, has prompted the search for alternatives to synthetic pesticides. New studies are focusing on the use of botanicals as a novel approach to the management of pests. Gnidia glauca has been exploited by local people in control of post-harvest pests. However, no scientific research has been undertaken to evaluate its potential anti-insect properties. In this study, four organic leaf extracts of G. glauca (methanol, ethyl acetate, DCM and blend) were evaluated for contact toxicity, oviposition deterrence, inhibition of progeny emergence and repellency against cowpea weevil. The plant leaves were collected from Embu County, Kenya. The samples were prepared, extracted and investigation carried out under ambient laboratory conditions. The experimental design entailed five test concentrations (2g/100ml, 4g/100m, 6g/100ml, 8g/100ml, and 10g/100ml) of each extract, the untreated control, the solvent control and the positive control-Actellic. Each bioassay had four replications. Adult weevils (1-3 days old) were exposed to the extracts and mortality was monitored daily for the first four days. Subsequently, oviposition deterrence was assessed on the 15th day while inhibition of progeny emergence was evaluated on the 49th-day post-treatment. Extract repellency was assessed for the first 6 hours after treatment. Screening for plants phytochemicals was conducted using the standard recommended procedures. The results of this study revealed all G. glauca extracts, to a varied extent, induced mortality on C. maculatus. Mortality was concentration and exposure time dependent. Highest mortality of 89.74% was recorded with 10g/100ml ethyl acetate extract 96 hours post-treatment. The extracts significantly deterred oviposition with the 10g/100ml concentration of ethyl acetate, DCMand blend statistically (p>0.05) comparable to the activity of synthetic pesticide. All the extracts were found effective in inhibition of progeny emergence. Ethyl acetate extract at the test dose of 10g/100ml demonstrated the highest inhibition of 99.3% while the least inhibition of 9.03% was exhibited by 2g/100ml methanol extract. G. glauca extracts proved to be attractant of C. maculatus rather than repellant, none of the extract concentration attained repellency greater than 50%. Results also showed that the extracts had tannins, phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides and steroids which have been associated with insect control properties. It was therefore concluded that the plant extracts, possess bioactivities against Callosobruchus maculatus on the tested parameters of contact toxicity, oviposition deterrence, inhibition of progeny emergence and repellency. Hence the studied extracts can further be purified and developed into the plant-derived bio-pesticides to control C. maculatus.
CHARACTERIZATION AND CONTROL OF PATHOGENIC PARASITES IN NILE TILAPIA (OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS LINNAEUS 1758) IN FISH FARMING SYSTEMS
(2020-10) DAVIES MUKWABI MAKILLA
In Kenya, fish farming has been expanding in recent years, with Government support through financial and input subsidies to small scale farmers. The sub sector generates a variety of benefits such as food and nutrition and develops trade. However, the sub sector faces the challenges of fish diseases, given that the fish production facilities support high-density living conditions that are favorable for spread of parasitic diseases. Besides, when fish that is infected is consumed by humans, the humans may be infected, especially when eaten fresh. Infected fish lowers their market value and sunctions may also be imposed on fish exports. Knowledge of fish parasites in aquaculture systems as well as treatment options available would enlighten fish farmers on the specific actions to take in order to harvest quality fish. The study was cross sectional carried out in Bungoma County from August 2015 to Decemebr 2017. The main objective of the study was to characterize and evaluate control options of pathogenic parasites present in fish farming systems in Bungoma County. Bungoma County was chosen for this study because it is one of the Counties that has high potential for fish farming. The County hosts one out of the public fish farms and hatcheries at Chwele besides authenticated private fish hatcheries. He hatcheries are sources of fish fingerlings as well as training and demonstration centres for fish farmers. At every fish pond, six water quality parameters were assessed using a portable auto sampler. Farmed Nile tilapia was randomly sampled to determine the pathogenic parasites and bacteria present in various organs. Commercial fish feeds were also purchased from two fish feed millers in Bungoma County and assessed for parasite presence. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and genetic sequencing analysis were conducted in order to assess the genes responsible for antimicrobial resistance. The data was entered into Micro Soft Excel (Windows 10) spreadsheet and analysed by SPSS Software. It was found that there was significant difference only in temperature of the pond water sampled across the sub counties (F=15.5; df=5; p<0.001). Helminthes recovered were Pallisentis tetraodontis, Pallisentis spp., Acanthocephalus spp., Procamallanus spp. and Philometroides spp. from Nile tilapia and Cleidodiscus spp. from pond water. Bacteria that were isolated from Nile tilapia were Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In fish pond water, Aeromonas hydrophila was isolated while Streptococcus iniae was isolated from fish feeds. Besides, there was a significant difference in distribution of total viable aerobic colony counts in fish ponds water across the different sub counties (H=6;df 5; P< 0.041). Furthermore, it was found that there was significant difference in the distribution of Aeromonas hydrophila in fish ponds across the different sub counties (H=3;df;P< 0.016). The external parasites were eliminated by formalin (36% formaldehyde) at concentration of 25ppm for 1h and Hydrogen peroxide at 75ppm for 30 min. The bacterial isolates were found to be significantly different in responses to antimicrobial agents (OLR;df= 16; P<0.00). When the bacterial isolates were subjected to PCR, all five bacterial pathogens isolated from fish, pond water and fish feeds were found to contain blaTEM gene amplified at 424bp. The sequences blaTEM gene returned 100% identity with GenBank Accession number; BankIt2236899 Seq1a MN114035 to Seq 9b MN114052). This study found that the blaTEM gene was present in recovered Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus iniae. It is recommended that Formalin and hydrogen peroxide as well as potassium permanganate should used to manage fish helminthes in the ponds.
CHILD EXPOSURE TO LEAD IN THE VICINITIES OF INFORMAL USED LEAD-ACID BATTERY RECYCLING OPERATIONS IN SLUMS, KENYA
(2016-11) MAUREEN AUMA ONDAYO
Leadexposure frominformal used lead-acidbattery (ULAB) recyclingoperations is a seriousenvironmental healthconcern. Researchshows that youngchildrenliving inthe vicinitiesoftheseoperationshaveelevatedbloodleadlevelsandfatalitieshavealsobeen reported. FromJanuary2015 toAugust 2015, thestudy investigatedchildexposure to lead inthevicinitiesof informalULABrecyclingoperations inNairobi slums,Kenya. This was in consideration of activity patterns of children under seven years that influencedexposurelevelsthroughhousedustandsoil.Topsoil (N=232)andfloordust (N=322)sampleswerecollectedfromdwellingunits(N=120)andpreparatoryschools (N:44)andanalyzedusing inductivelycoupledplasma-optical emissionspectrometer (ICP-OES) at theMines aridGeological Department Laboratory in theMinistryof Mining,Nairobi.Fromthe lead levels insoil andhousedustobtained,childblood lead levelswere subsequently predictedusing the IntegratedExposureUptakeBiokinetic Model forLead inChildren(IEUBK),Windowsversion.Results indicatedhigh indoor andoutdoor lead contamination instudied areas. Lead loadings inall the floor dust samples (100%) fromDandota, Kariobangi andMukuruslums exceeded theUSEPA guidancevaluefor leadonfloorswitharangeof65.2-58,l94ug/ft2.Control floordust samples recorded lower lead loadingsas compared to thevalues recorded inDandora, Kariobangi andMukuruslums. 70.7%ofthesoil samplescollectedfromwastedumps, industrial sites, residential areas, playgrounds and preparatory schools in Dandora, Kariobangi andMukururecorded leadconcentrations that exceeded the respectiveUS EPAguidancevalues for lead insoils. Leadconcentration inall (100%of) thecontrol soil sampleswerebelowtherespectiveUSEPAguidancevalues. Fromthe IEUBKwin predictions,nearly99.9%ofchildren<7yearsoldlivingnear informalULABrecycling operations inDandora, Kariobangi andMukuru slums, were at riskof being lead poisonedwithpredictedbloodleadlevelsabovetheCDCreferencevalueforbloodlead. 99.9%ofexposedchildrenlivinginDandora,KariobangiandMukumslumsarelikelyto havebloodlead levelsabove20kg/dL, 19kg/dLand34kg/dLrespectively.Thestudy establishedthatDandora,Kariobangi andMukuruslums facevastenvironmentalhealth challenges,withmanychildrenat riskofleadpoisoningduetotherapidunprecedented growthof informalULABrecycling. Thesoil andhousedust results demonstrate the need for coordinatedefforts towards decreasing leademissions frominformal battery recycling inNairobi slumsand to remediateexisting soilsparticularlyaroundbattery workplaces and dumpsites. Childblood lead levels should be clinically tested and appropriateinterventionmeasurestaken.
DERIVATION OF CYCLE INDEX FORMULAS OF SEMIDIRECT PRODUCT GROUPS
(2019-12) Muthoka Geoffrey Ngovi
The concept of the cycle index formulas of a permutation group was discovered in the year 1937. Since then cycle index formulas of several groups have been studied by different scholars. For instance the cycle index of the dihedral group Dn acting on the set of vertices of a regular n−gon is known and has been applied in enumeration of different mathematical structures. In this study the relationship between the cycle index formula of a semidirect product group and the cycle index formulas of the two subgroups which the group is a semidirect product of was established. In particular the cycle index formula of the dihedral group Dn of order 2n is expressed in terms of the cycle index formula of a cyclic group of order two C2 and the cycle index formula of the cyclic group of order n, Cn; the cycle index formula of the symmetric group Sn is expressed in terms of the cycle index formula of the alternating group An and the cycle index formula of a group generated by a cycle of length two, h(ab)i. The cycle index formula of an affine(p) group has been derived by considering the different cycle types of elements of the group and expressed in terms of the cycle index formula of Cp = {x + b, where b ∈ Zp} and the cycle index formula of Cp−1 = {ax, where 0 6= a ∈ Zp}. We further extend this to affine(q) where q is a power of a prime p and to the affine square(p) and affine square(q) groups. Finally, the cycle index formula of a Frobenius group is expressed in terms of the cycle index formula of the Frobenius complement H and the cycle index formula of the Frobenius kernel M. The cycle index formulas which are known such as that of the dihedral group and the symmetric group were used and the groups whose cycle index formulas are not known such as the affine(p), affine square(p), affine(q) and affine square(q) group were first derived as part of the research. It was noted that for semidirect groups which are Frobenius such as the dihedral group Dn with an odd value of n, the affine groups and the affine square groups, we can fully express the cycle index of the group in terms of the cycle index formulas of the subgroups which the group is a semidirect of. However, for semidirect product groups which are not Frobenius such as the dihedral group Dn with an even value of n and the symmetric group Sn, the cycle index formula of the group cannot be expressed fully in terms of the cycle index formulas of the subgroups the group is a semidirect product of.
DETERMINATION OF FECAL CONTAMINATION STATUS OF SHALLOW WELLS IN DEDE DIVISION, MIGORI COUNTY, KENYA
(2018-12) OLUOCH EVANCE ODIWUOR
A shallow well is a hole dug, bored or drilled less than 50M deep to extract water. Contamination of shallow wells with fecal matter presents a grave public health threat in developing countries, such as Kenya, where large numbers of households lack access to clean and safe water supplies and rely on untreated surface water sources or shallow unprotected groundwater for domestic utilization. A report by WHO shows that 1 billion people practice open defecation with nine out of ten of them in rural areas and it is estimated that 1.8 billion people use a source of drinking water that is fecally contaminated. In Kenya unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene are the 2nd leading risk factors causing morbidity and mortality at the national and county levels respectively. In Dede Division, 65.5% of households depend on shallow wells for domestic needs and there are rising trends of confirmed cases of fecal-related diseases. The study sought to assess human and technical determinants of fecal contamination status of shallow wells in Dede Division. A cross-sectional study of households using the wells was conducted. Fisher’s formula was then used to calculate the sample size of the heads of households. Since the approximated number of households using shallow wells was <10,000 (4008), the two stages of the formula were adopted, giving a sample size of 386 heads of households. Out of the 180 shallow wells, 54 (30% of 180) were proportionately sampled and grab sampling technique adopted while sampling water from each of the sampled shallow wells. Basic physical parameters like temperature, turbidity and pH were analysed by a portable turbidity meter and pH meter while H2S rapid field test was employed for total corliforms analysis of grab samples in the field. Fecal contamination status of each well was determined by Membrane Filter Technique in kisumu government labaratory. Chi-square test was used to measure associations between variables while Multi-variate logistic regression analysis applied to test the hypotheses. The study reported significant relationship between level of knowledge of respondents on a well being too close to a latrine as a potential route (risk factor), a well located downhill a latrine, an open/uncovered well, surface run-offs into wells, dropping objects in shallow wells, using a dirty drawer, people/animals dropping in wells, doing laundry next to a well, and human/animal feces dropping in the well as potential routes of fecal contamination. It further revealed significant associations between several technical determinants and fecal contamination status of shallow wells e.g distance (M) from a latrine to a well, with majority of wells within safe distances of contamination (>10M) but still tested positive for fecal corliforms, distance (M) from the nearest cattle pen if any with a significant majority of shallow wells testing positive for fecal corliforms, damage or lack of concrete plinth, breaks/cracks on the parapet walls, breaks/cracks in the cover/top slab, breaks in the drainage channels, shallow well covered while not in use and shallow well fenced out respectively. Majority of shallow wells (69%) tested positive for E. Coli, a strong indicator for presence of fecal matter in water, with only 31% testing negative. Common human and technical determinants (risk factors) by and large are functions of fecal contamination status of shallow wells in Dede Division. Efficient protection of shallow wells is a critical pointer to their ground water quality. Households in Dede Division should ensure adequate treatment of shallow wells for fecal contamination before utilization of water from these sources. This can be both at source or household level. They should be sensitized by the relevant authorities on common routes of fecal contamination of shallow well water and safe hygiene and sanitation practices around shallow wells to prevent fecal contamination of the wells. Households using shallow wells in Dede Division should ensure proper sighting and location of latrines in relation to shallow wells to avoid fecal contamination of the wells through leaching. The pit latrines should be sighted down hill the shallow wells and located atleast 10 meters apart.
DETERMINATION OF FECAL CONTAMINATION STATUS OF SHALLOW WELLS IN DEDE DIVISION, MIGORI COUNTY, KENYA
(2018-11) OLUOCH EVANCE ODIWUOR
A shallow well is a hole dug, bored or drilled less than 50M deep to extract water. Contamination of shallow wells with fecal matter presents a grave public health threat in developing countries, such as Kenya, where large numbers of households lack access to clean and safe water supplies and rely on untreated surface water sources or shallow unprotected groundwater for domestic utilization. A report by WHO shows that 1 billion people practice open defecation with nine out of ten of them in rural areas and it is estimated that 1.8 billion people use a source of drinking water that is fecally contaminated. In Kenya unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene are the 2nd leading risk factors causing morbidity and mortality at the national and county levels respectively. In Dede Division, 65.5% of households depend on shallow wells for domestic needs and there are rising trends of confirmed cases of fecal-related diseases. The study sought to assess human and technical determinants of fecal contamination status of shallow wells in Dede Division. A cross-sectional study of households using the wells was conducted. Fisher’s formula was then used to calculate the sample size of the heads of households. Since the approximated number of households using shallow wells was <10,000 (4008), the two stages of the formula were adopted, giving a sample size of 386 heads of households. Out of the 180 shallow wells, 54 (30% of 180) were proportionately sampled and grab sampling technique adopted while sampling water from each of the sampled shallow wells. Basic physical parameters like temperature, turbidity and pH were analysed by a portable turbidity meter and pH meter while H2S rapid field test was employed for total corliforms analysis of grab samples in the field. Fecal contamination status of each well was determined by Membrane Filter Technique in kisumu government labaratory. Chi-square test was used to measure associations between variables while Multi-variate logistic regression analysis applied to test the hypotheses. The study reported significant relationship between level of knowledge of respondents on a well being too close to a latrine as a potential route (risk factor), a well located downhill a latrine, an open/uncovered well, surface run-offs into wells, dropping objects in shallow wells, using a dirty drawer, people/animals dropping in wells, doing laundry next to a well, and human/animal feces dropping in the well as potential routes of fecal contamination. It further revealed significant associations between several technical determinants and fecal contamination status of shallow wells e.g distance (M) from a latrine to a well, with majority of wells within safe distances of contamination (>10M) but still tested positive for fecal corliforms, distance (M) from the nearest cattle pen if any with a significant majority of shallow wells testing positive for fecal corliforms, damage or lack of concrete plinth, breaks/cracks on the parapet walls, breaks/cracks in the cover/top slab, breaks in the drainage channels, shallow well covered while not in use and shallow well fenced out respectively. Majority of shallow wells (69%) tested positive for E. Coli, a strong indicator for presence of fecal matter in water, with only 31% testing negative. Common human and technical determinants (risk factors) by and large are functions of fecal contamination status of shallow wells in Dede Division. Efficient protection of shallow wells is a critical pointer to their ground water quality. Households in Dede Division should ensure adequate treatment of shallow wells for fecal contamination before utilization of water from these sources. This can be both at source or household level. They should be sensitized by the relevant authorities on common routes of fecal contamination of shallow well water and safe hygiene and sanitation practices around shallow wells to prevent fecal contamination of the wells. Households using shallow wells in Dede Division should ensure proper sighting and location of latrines in relation to shallow wells to avoid fecal contamination of the wells through leaching. The pit latrines should be sighted down hill the shallow wells and located atleast 10 meters apart.
DETERMINATION OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS AND ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY AMONG NON-INSULIN DEPENDENT DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS VISITING KISII TEACHING AND REFERRAL HOSPITAL, KENYA
(2018-10) MAGETO VINCENT MOGAKA
People with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus have been found to be prone to urinary tract infections. There is a wide gap of information in developing countries regarding the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity of the pathogens causing urinary tract infections in diabetic patients. Developed nations also face a relatively huge burden of managing urinary tract infections among non-insulin dependent diabetics. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity of bacteria causing urinary tract infections among non-insulin dependent diabetic patients as well as determining the bacterial causative agents of urinary tract infections through biochemical confirmatory tests. The study was carried out in Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisii County, Kenya. One hundred and eighty diabetic patients were enrolled in a cross-sectional study design. Clean catch midstream urine was collected from all participants and cultured in cysteine lactose electrolyte deficient agar for bacteria isolation. The isolates were later cultured in Mueller Hinton for antibiotic sensitivity testing. Classification of a positive culture for urinary tract infection was based on more than 100,000 (≥105 ) colony-forming units of a single bacterial species. All the data was extracted and analyzed with the statistical package for the social science (SPSS) version 20. The data was analyzed using frequencies, chi square (P<0.05) and logic regression to find the odds ratio. One hundred and seven participants were male (59.4 %) and 73 (40.6 %) were female. Sixty-three participants (35 %) showed symptoms of urinary tract infections. The overall prevalence of urinary tract infections was 20.6 % with 37 participants testing positive for urinary tract infection. The duration of diabetes mellitus was revealed to be significant (p=0.01) while age was also found to have a significant association with urinary tract infection (p=0.002). Out of the 37 (100 %) isolates, 35 (94.6 %) were gram negative and the remaining 2 (5.4 %) were gram positive. Escherichia coli was the most predominant isolate with 21 (56.8 %) isolates followed by 10 (27 %) isolates of Klebsiella pneumonia and then 4 (10.8 %) isolates of Proteus mirabilis. There were two (5.4 %) isolates of Enterococcus faecalis. Out of the 21 E. coli isolates, five isolates showed resistance to ampicillin, three isolates were resistant to nitrofurantoin and three isolates were resistant to co-trimoxazole. Out of 10 K. pneumoniae isolates, two were resistant to ampicillin, one was resistant to cephalexin and two were resistant to co-trimoxazole. Out of the four P. mirabilis isolates, there were three cases where one strain was each resistant to ampicillin, nitrofurantoin and cotrimoxazole. All 21 isolates of E. coli (100 %) were sensitive to gentamicin and cephalexin. All ten K. pneumoniae isolates (100 %) were sensitive to gentamicin and nitrofurantoin. These findings suggest an increasing antibiotic resistance among pathogenic causative agents of UTI among non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. A longitudinal study is recommended with a higher number of participants, in order to understand the risk factors of urinary tract infection among diabetic patients.
DIAGNOSIS AND EPIDEMIOLOGY OF ZOONOTIC NONTUBERCULOUS MYCOBACTERIA AMONG DROMEDARY CAMELS AND HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS IN SAMBURU COUNTY, KENYA
(2020-09) LUCAS LUVAI AZAALE ASAAVA
Zoonotic nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) cross infect a wide range of domestic animals, wildlife and man causing various diseases. Despite the public health implications associated with mycobacterial infection and the existing close interaction of pastoralists and camels, information on diagnosis and epidemiology of zoonotic NTM amongst camels and closely associated community members is scanty. The present study was a one-health approach study involving diagnosis and epidemiology of zoonotic NTM infection among dromedary camels and associated household members in Samburu East sub-county. The study was cross sectional covering camels slaughtered at county abattoirs as well as household members and camels. Abattoirs sampled included Isiolo and Athi-River camel abattoirs, where all sampled camels were confirmed to have come from Samburu east. Household camel sampling strategy involved stratification of the study area to Wamba and Waso rearing areas. Sampling at abattoirs was consecutive for camels identified to have TB-like lesions during meat inspection. People presumed to have TB from amongst the sampled households were requested to provide a sputum sample. Screening of lactating camels for Mycobacteria infection was done using single intradermal comparative tuberculin test (SICTT) in a consecutive sample of 612 lactating camels from 83 households. A consolidated milk sample from all four mammary quarters was collected from 238 tuberculin test reactive camels. Post mortem (PM) examination was conducted on 1600 camels originating from the study area. A semistructured questionnaire was administered to collect data on risk factors from 83 respondents. All milk, sputum and tissue samples were analysed at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)/Centre for Respiratory Disease Research (CRDR) enhanced BSL2 laboratory using mycobacteriology, molecular speciation using GenoType® Mycobacterium line probe assay (HAINLifescience), drug susceptibility testing, 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. This study was conducted between April, 2017 and December, 2018. Results indicated that the proportion of M. bovis and M. avium reactors was estimated at 6.05% and 39.38% respectively. Out of 238 milk samples, 57 (23.95%) had culture positive acid fast bacilli (AFB). Out of 132 suspected lesions on PM, 27/1600 1.69% (binomial 95%, CI: 1.11%-2.45%) were AFB positive on culture. Of the 48 sputum samples, 7 were AFB culture positive. The NTMs were observed to occur widely in various samples analysed, including post mortem lesions: M. fortuitum 17/27 (62.96%), M. scrofulaceum 3/27 (11%), M. szulgai 2/27 (7.4%); camel milk samples: M. szulgai 20/57 (35.09%), M. monacense 5/57 (8.77%), M. litorale 4/57 (7.02%), M. fortuitum 3/57 (5.26%), M. lehmannii 3/57 (5.26%), M. elephantis 3/57 (5.26%), M. duvalii 3/57 (5.26%); and in Human sputum samples: M. fortuitum 1/48 (2.08%), M. szulgai 2/48 (4.16%), and M. litorale 1/48 (2.08%) among others. These findings demonstrate high levels of infection with NTM in both humans and camels. Camel post mortem analyses revealed bronchial, mediastinal lymph nodes and lung lobes were most affected tissues. Several NTMs of medical importance with varying level of commonly used TB drugs sensitivity. The pattern of resistance to first-line TB drugs was as follows: Isoniazid (100%), rifampicin (97.9%) and ethambutol (65.3%). All NTM species isolated were highly resistant to first-line TB drugs. Camel breed, age, production system, origin of new introductions, migration and herd size were identified as risk factors for infection in camels (p<0.05). Surveillance and notification systems for NTMs including specific immunological test for NTMs diagnoses are needed. The public health significance of NTM in camels and humans needs further unravelling.
EFFECT OF INDOMETHACIN ON SELECTED PROTEIN DIGESTING ENZYMES IN THE NORWAY RAT, RATTUS NORVEGICUS
(2020-07) ONYINGO JOSEPH OPONDO
Rats are rodents of the genus Rattus and are commensals. They are rapid breeders and tend to breed all year round. Rats are responsible for the transmission of many diseases, are sources of allergens and harbour fleas and ticks which are parasites that carry diseases. Rats destroy agricultural produce, household items and documents leading to huge financial losses. Biological and physical methods of rat control have proved inefficient, while rodenticides use is associated with high cost, risks and dangerous side effects. Indomethacin has been shown to lead to 100% mortality in the Norway rat experimentally, with accumulation of undigested food in their stomach. This research therefore determined the effects of indomethacin on selected protein digesting enzymes pepsin, trypsin and amino peptidase in rats. One hundred and fifty female rats were randomly divided into six groups of twenty five rats each. Group A was used as control while B, C, D, E and F served as experimental groups and were given 12.5mg/Kg, 25mg/Kg, 50mg/Kg, 100mg/Kg and 150mg/Kg of indomethacin respectively. Five rats in each group were euthanized at intervals of one hour, two, four, eight and twelve hours from the time of indomethacin administration. The rats were dissected and the gut contents removed. The digesta from the stomach, duodenum and ileum were collected, centrifuged, and the supernatants gently pipetted into sterile vials and then frozen in liquid nitrogen. The activity of digestive enzymes in the specimens were determined by continuous spectroscopic enzyme bioassays. Analysis of data was done by one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) while significant difference in the means of experimental groups was determined using post hoc ANOVA test (L.S.D). Regression analysis showed a linear relationship between indomethacin dose and enzyme activity. The results were expressed as mean ± standard error. The results showed that increase in dose of indomethacin administered leads to a decrease in the enzyme activity. Pepsin activity at 12.5mg/Kg dose was 214.2±0.6µg/mol while at a dose of 150mg/Kg the activity was 51.4±0.5µg/mol. Trypsin activity at a dose of 12.5mg/Kg, was 113.5±0.03 µg/mol while at 150mg/Kg dose the activity was 29.0±0.1µg/mol. Amino peptidase activity at 12.5mg/Kg dose was 126.5±0.04µg/mol while at 150mg/Kg dose, the activity was 33.5±0.09µg/mol. The enzyme activity is inversely proportional to the length of time taken after indomethacin administration. Pepsin activity after one hour was 214.2±0.6µg/mol while at twelve hours the activity was 108.8±0.4µg/mol. Trypsin activity after one hour was 113.2±0.03µg/mol while after twelve hours the activity was 55.5±0.05µg/mol. Amino peptidase activity after one hour was 126.5±0.04µg/mol while after twelve hours the activity was 67.8±0.03µg/mol). The mean enzyme activities in all groups were significantly different from each other at p<0.05. The results of this study have provided better understanding of the physiological basis of functioning of indomethacin as a rodenticide and its effects in digestion of rats. The findings of this study should be used by government officers to educate the masses on control of rats using indomethacin. The mechanism by which indomethacin decreases protein digestive enzyme activity should be investigated.
EFFECTIVENESS OF DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION IN ENHANCING STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS, SELF-CONCEPT OF ABILITY AND MOTIVATION TOWARDS LEARNING OF CHEMISTRY IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MAARA SUB-COUNTY, KENYA
(2016-11) ROSE GATUNE MUGWIRIA
Students perform poorly in Kenya Certificates of Secondary Education Chemistry examinations in Kenya. Chemistry is important for understanding composition, properties and behavior changes of matter that form the environment. The teaching of Chemistry aims at developing scientific attitudes, concept, principles and skills in learners. Differentiating instruction means tailoring instruction to meet individual needs of learners. Differentiating instruction consists of efforts of teachers to respond to the variance among learners in the classroom. This study investigated the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in enhancing students‟ academic achievements, self-concept of ability and motivation towards learning of chemistry. The study was guided by Howard Gadner Theory of multiple Intelligence. Quasi experimental research design was employed and in particular Solomon‟s four group design was used. The research was carried out in Four Day co-educational secondary schools in Maara sub-county, Kenya. The target population was 12,187 chemistry students. The accessible population was 1,242 form two chemistry students in Day co educational secondary schools. A purposive sampling technique was used to draw the participating schools. Simple random sampling was used to select and to assign participating schools in Experimental and Control groups. The sample size was 165 form two chemistry students. The research instruments used were Chemistry Achievement Test, Students‟ Self Concept of Ability Questionnaire and Students‟ Motivation Questionnaire. The instruments were piloted to determine their reliability, while validity of the instrument was ascertained by experts‟ opinions from Department of Education and Resource Development of Chuka University. Reliability coefficient for CAT, SSCAQ and SMQ was 0.74, 0.80 and 0.77 respectively. The experimental groups (E1 and E2) were taught using differentiated instruction teaching approach while the control groups (C1 and C2) were taught through conventional teaching approach. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data analysis. The raw data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistics (Mean, Standard deviation, percentages) and inferential statistics (One-way ANOVA, ANCOVA and t-test). The level of significance for acceptance or rejection of null hypotheses was at α = 0.05. The findings of the study indicated that differentiated instruction significantly improved the students‟ achievement, self concept of ability and motivation towards learning chemistry. It was also found out that when students were taught using differentiated instruction, gender did not affect their achievement in chemistry. The findings are expected to form a frame of reference for further research on innovative teaching strategies in chemistry education as well as in science education in general.
Effects of Computer Interactive Multiple Mice Technique On Learners’ Performance in Fractions In Primary Schools In Kenya
(2017-11) Metrine Wambani Sulungai
Studies attribute poor performance in mathematics especially in fractions in public primary schools to teacher centred teaching methods. However, few researchers have tried out interventions based on computer interactive multiple mice technique that promises to offer interactive and collaborative learning benefits enabling learners in resource-constrained schools to share one computer each with their own mouse. The purpose of this study was to investigate effects of computer interactive multiple mice technique on learners’ achievement, motivation and classroom interaction in learning fractions in public primary schools. The study was guided by the following objectives: to determine any difference in achievement between learners’ taught using computer interactive multiple mice technique and those taught using conventional instructional methods, to find out any difference in motivation between learners’ taught using computer interactive multiple mice technique and those taught using conventional instructional methods and to establish any difference in classroom interaction between learners’ taught using computer interactive multiple mice and those taught using conventional instructional methods. Computer Support for Collaborative Learning theory was used to depict the relationship between computer interactive multiple mice technique and conventional instructional methods as the independent variables and learners’ performance as the dependent variable. The study adopted quasi experimental pre-test, post-test, non equivalent groups design. The target population was 5,487 Standard 6 learners in public primary co-educational schools in Kenya. A sample of 518 learners from 12 schools were selected. Sampling techniques used involved stratification, purposive and simple randomized sampling. Computer interactive multiple mice technique was used in the experimental group while conventional instructional method was used in the control groups. Two Mathematics Achievement Tests (Mathematics Achievement Test 1 and Mathematics Achievement Test 2) gauged learners’ achievement in fractions. Mathematics Achievement Test 1 was used as a pretest for the two groups. Mathematics Achievement Test 2 was used to determine learner achievement after instruction. Mathematics Lesson Observation Checklist (MLOC) was used to gauge learners’ classroom interactions. Learner Motivation Questionnaire (LMQ) was used to determine learners’ motivation towards learning fractions. The instruments were piloted in two public primary co-educational schools of Hamisi Sub County. Face and content validity were determined by experts in mathematics subject. Test retest reliability method was deployed. Reliability was established using Pearson’s Product Moment of Correlation Coefficient to determine if the instruments were reliable. Class observations was employed to provide comparative findings to supplement the quantitative data. To test the hypotheses, inferential statistics (t-test) were used at significance level of .05. Qualitative data was summarized using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and presented using tables and figures. A response rate of 89.1% (476) was realized. The findings revealed that on the pretest, the two groups were comparable. The posttest revealed significant difference with mean performance of the experimental group higher than the control group. The findings revealed significant difference in achievement between the groups (t474 = 21.925, p = .000.), improved mean scores in motivation and enhanced classroom interactions. Therefore, computer interactive multiple mice technique enhanced learners achievement in fractions, improved learner motivation and enhanced classroom interaction as compared to conventional instructional methods in public primary schools of Hamisi Sub County.
EFFECTS OF FARM SIZE AND GREENLEAF MARKETING ARRANGEMENTS ON SMALLHOLDER TEA PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY IN SELECTED COUNTIES IN KENYA
(2018-06) JOSIAH MWANGI ATEKA
The smallholder tea sub-sector makes an important contribution in the Kenyan economy. Although the subsector has enjoyed relative growth in terms of acreage, output and number of growers, productivity has remained low. The subsector is characterized by huge differentials between actual and potential yields, which imply existence of production inefficiencies. Studies on efficiency in the sector have focused on the regional differences in efficiency, but have not explicitly considered the effects of farm size on efficiency; despite rising concerns from stakeholders about subdivision of tea farms. Moreover, the influences of the alternative tea market channels (ATMCs) which are outcome of the tea market reforms have also not been accounted for in previous studies. This study estimated the level of technical efficiency (TE) and analysed the effects of farm size and marketing arrangements on efficiency in the smallholder tea subsector in Kenya. Using the multistage random sampling approach, data for the study was collected from a cross sectional survey of 525 tea farming households. The level of TE was estimated using the variable returns to scale DEA model, while the analysis of farm size effects was explored using the Fractional Regression (FR) model which accounts for the fractional nature of efficiency scores. The study further applied the Endogenous Switching Regression (ESR) and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) model to investigate the effect of marketing arrangements on TE. The study found that smallholder tea farms were technically inefficient and were operating below their optimal scale. The estimated mean of TE was 0.46 which implies that tea farmers can achieve their current tea output using only 46 percent of their inputs. The study further found that tea farmers in Nyamira County were technically less efficient than their counterparts in Bomet County. The effect of farm size on TE was found to be nonlinear with TE first falling and then rising with increase in farm size. Apart from contributing to literature on the relationship between farm size and efficiency, the study demonstrates that there exists a threshold of farm size (3.93 acres) beyond which increase in farm size leads to an increase TE. The other factors that were found to influence TE were participation in the Farmer Field School (FFS) extension program, the share of family labour applied in tea farming, the age of the farm and the education level of the household head. With regard to tea marketing, it was found that the ATMCs were used by 36.4 percent of the smallholders in the study area. From the ESR and PSM models the study found a consistent result that ATMC participation increases TE in tea production. The study recommends that Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) and the respective county governments enact regulations that restrict farm subdivisions and implement policies that encourage consolidation of tea farms, support tea replanting to replace aging tea gardens and deepen market reforms in order to increase the farmers‟ access to ATMC. In addition, efforts should be directed towards promotion of the FFS extension, addressing labour market imperfections and ensuring that the policy formulation process in the tea sector accounts for regional specific heterogeneities that may impact on efficiency.

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