Browsing Daystar University Publications by Title
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Jethro, S Johnson; Opiyo, Monica N; Thomson, Marian; Karim, Gharbi; Andreas, Heger; Chapman, Karen E (The Journal of Endocrinology, December , 2016)
[more][less]Abstract: The enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) interconverts active glucocorticoids and their intrinsically inert 11-keto forms. The type 1 isozyme, 11β-HSD1, predominantly reactivates glucocorticoids in vivo and can also metabolise bile acids. 11β-HSD1-deficient mice show altered inflammatory responses and are protected against the adverse metabolic effects of a high-fat diet. However, the impact of 11β-HSD1 on the composition of the gut microbiome has not previously been investigated. We used high-throughput 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing to characterise the gut microbiome of 11β-HSD1-deficient and C57Bl/6 control mice, fed either a standard chow diet or a cholesterol- and fat-enriched ‘Western’ diet. 11β-HSD1 deficiency significantly altered the composition of the gut microbiome, and did so in a diet-specific manner. On a Western diet, 11β-HSD1 deficiency increased the relative abundance of the family Bacteroidaceae, and on a chow diet, it altered relative abundance of the family Prevotellaceae. Our results demonstrate that (i) genetic effects on host–microbiome interactions can depend upon diet and (ii) that alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome may contribute to the aspects of the metabolic and/or inflammatory phenotype observed with 11β-HSD1 deficiency. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2965 Files in this item: 1
11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-1.pdf (1.269Mb) -
Johnson, Jethro S; Opiyo, Monica N; Thomson, Marian; Gharbi, Karim; Seckl, Jonathan R; Heger, Andreas; Chapman, Karen E (Journal of Endocrinology, 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: The enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) interconverts active glucocorticoids and their intrinsically inert 11-keto forms. The type 1 isozyme, 11β-HSD1, predominantly reactivates glucocorticoids in vivo and can also metabolise bile acids. 11β-HSD1-deficient mice show altered inflammatory responses and are protected against the adverse metabolic effects of a high-fat diet. However, the impact of 11β-HSD1 on the composition of the gut microbiome has not previously been investigated. We used high-throughput 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing to characterise the gut microbiome of 11β-HSD1-deficient and C57Bl/6 control mice, fed either a standard chow diet or a cholesterol- and fat-enriched ‘Western’ diet. 11β-HSD1 deficiency significantly altered the composition of the gut microbiome, and did so in a diet-specific manner. On a Western diet, 11β-HSD1 deficiency increased the relative abundance of the family Bacteroidaceae, and on a chow diet, it altered relative abundance of the family Prevotellaceae. Our results demonstrate that (i) genetic effects on host–microbiome interactions can depend upon diet and (ii) that alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome may contribute to the aspects of the metabolic and/or inflammatory phenotype observed with 11β-HSD1 deficiency. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3978 Files in this item: 1
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Jaguga, Florence; Mathai, Muthoni; Ayuya, Caroline; Ongecha, Francisca; Musyoka, Catherine Mawia; Shah, Jasmit; Atwoli, Lukoye (PLoS ONE, November 27, 2023)[more][less]
Abstract: Objectives The period of entry into university represents one of vulnerability to substance use for university students. The goal of this study is to document the 12-month prevalence of substance use disorders among first year university students in Kenya, and to test whether there is an association between substance use disorders and mental disorders. Methods This was a cross-sectional online survey conducted in 2019 and 2020 as part of the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health International College Student (WMH-ICS) survey initiative. A total of 334 university students completed the survey. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographic characteristics of the participants. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between substance use disorder and mental disorders after adjusting for age and gender. Results The 12-month prevalence for alcohol use disorder was 3.3%, while the 12-month prevalence for other substance use disorder was 6.9%. Adjusting for age and gender, there was an association between any substance use disorder and major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar 1 disorder, intermittent explosive disorder, social anxiety disorder, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and non-suicidal self-injury. Conclusion These findings highlight the need to institute policies and interventions in universities in Kenya that address substance use disorders and comorbid mental disorders among first-year students. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4251 Files in this item: 1
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Amukowa, Wycliffe; Ayuya, Caroline (Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, March , 2013)[more][less]
Abstract: Africa like other parts of the world strongly believes in the axiom of education per excellence, that is, African nations share in the vision of education as a pivot for social change and integrated development. However review of literature shows a discontent from some African scholars over the practice of Western formal education on the Continent of Africa. This discontent stems from the belief that Western formal education destroys Africa; resulting into the loss of Africans’ educational identity, underdevelopment, moral decadence and cultural erosion. Several concerns emerge in the light of this discontent: 1).What is Education? 2).Who is an educated person? 3) Who is responsible for Africans loss of educational identity? This paper engages a critical appraisal and review of this discontent with the intentions of arriving at an understanding of the 21st Key Words: Africa, Colonialism, Culture, Development, Education, European, Schooling Century educated African Person and proposes an educational model for Africa in this regard. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3709 Files in this item: 1
The 21.pdf (993.2Kb) -
Wandera, Susan N.; Akala, Winston Jumba; Imonje, Rosemary Khitieyi (International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), November , 2020)[more][less]
Abstract: School resources and infrastructure are very essential to the learning and teaching process. In exploring level of learner performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary Examinations, learning resources and school infrastructure is one of major indicators of the level of preparedness for enhancing learner performance. The study determined the relation of the adequacy of school resources and infrastructure on learner performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary Examination (KCPE) in English subject in public primary schools in Kenya. The study used descriptive survey design using purposive sampling technique. This enabled the study capture how levels of adequacy of school resources and infrastructure relate to learner performance in National Examination public primary schools in Machakos County. The unit of analysis was Public primary schools. The County has 842 Government run public primary schools out of which 86 schools were studied. Data was collected using observation schedules and questionnaires. Respondents were teachers who teach English subject. Study found that availability and usage of teaching and learning resources averaging 65 % and availability/adequacy and usage of school infrastructure averaging 60 % to correspond to learner performance scores in KCPE. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4138 Files in this item: 1
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Wandera, Susan; Akala, Winston Jumba; Imonje, Rosemary Khitieyi (International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), November , 2020)[more][less]
Abstract: School resources and infrastructure are very essential to the learning and teaching process. In exploring level of learner performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary Examinations, learning resources and school infrastructure is one of major indicators of the level of preparedness for enhancing learner performance. The study determined the relation of the adequacy of school resources and infrastructure on learner performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary Examination (KCPE) in English subject in public primary schools in Kenya. The study used descriptive survey design using purposive sampling technique. This enabled the study capture how levels of adequacy of school resources and infrastructure relate to learner performance in National Examination public primary schools in Machakos County. The unit of analysis was Public primary schools. The County has 842 Government run public primary schools out of which 86 schools were studied. Data was collected using observation schedules and questionnaires. Respondents were teachers who teach English subject. Study found that availability and usage of teaching and learning resources averaging 65 % and availability/adequacy and usage of school infrastructure averaging 60 % to correspond to learner performance scores in KCPE. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4217 Files in this item: 1
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Wambua, Anthony; Maake, Benard (IST-Africa Institute and IIMC, May , 2021)[more][less]
Abstract: Student engagement is an overarching problem in the learning context that instructors continue to grapple with. Several attempts that utilize features within the Learning Management Systems (LMSs) have been made to increase student engagement and motivation for online courses. This paper presents the findings of the adoption of completion tracking and conditional activities to enhance engagement in Moodle, a leading LMS. To investigate the effectiveness and the potential of completion tracking and conditional activities in enhancing engagement, data was collected from 90 students across four courses, further Moodle logs were examined. The research findings indicate completion tracking and conditional activities significantly increase learner engagement in online classes. These findings have significant implications on instructors conducting online classes and the development of student engagement for online courses. The present research fulfills the need to study how completion tracking and conditional activities features can be used to enhance learner engagement in Moodle LMS. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3994 Files in this item: 1
Adopting Course Completion Tracking.pdf (553.7Kb) -
Munene, Alice; Ayuya, Caroline (African Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2017)
[more][less]Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3135 Files in this item: 1
Adoptive Parenting.pdf (257.8Kb) -
The Advancement of Justice for Institutionalised Children with Disabilities in Remand Homes in KenyaGowi, Ruby; Olumbe, Roseline Shimuli (Interdisciplinary Journal on the African Child, 2019)
[more][less]Abstract: This study examined the needs of children with disabilities in Nairobi Children’s Remand Home (NCRH). Children with disabilities stay at the remand home for a longer period as compared to non-impaired children, and sometimes the period is beyond the limit permitted by law. The objectives of this study were to identify the types of special needs among institutionalised children at NCRH; establish the psychosocial needs of the children at NCRH; and explore challenges faced by NCRH caregivers. The study adopted a descriptive design and combined both qualitative and quantitative approaches in data collection and analysis. Data was collected through interviews, self-administered questionnaires and observation checklist from 15 children and 20 staff members in the home purposively selected. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16. The study revealed that children at the remand home had different types of needs, which included; hearing, lower limbs, and upper body impairments, speech and learning difficulties, emotional maladjustments and psychosocial needs. Most of these needs were found to be inadequately met due to challenges faced by the home, such as lack of financial and professional capacity. The study recommended that government should increase the material and personnel resources allocated to the remand home, and that the institutional staff should be equipped to build their capacity in handling children with special needs. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3012 Files in this item: 1
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Boyo, Bernard; Bowen, Michael; Kariuki, Scholastica; Kombo, James (International Bulletin of Mission Research, 2021)[more][less]
Abstract: Africa has witnessed an increase of clergy who favor faith healing but have little appreciation for modern medicine. The intersection between African traditional healing and faith healing remains unclear, with most curricula in theological and Bible schools failing to address these fundamental issues. Research was conducted to establish the intersection between faith, traditional, and biomedical healing. The findings show that faith healing is practiced by nearly three-fourths of the respondents and that African Instituted Churches give relatively more attention to practices of faith healing than do other denominations. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3808 Files in this item: 1
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Muriithi, Samuel Muiruri (UPA, April 16, 1996)[more][less]
Abstract: The goal of this book is to provide practical solutions to save Africa and its people from an "African crisis" that is threatening to destroy the nation and eliminate human survival. The author, an African himself, argues that this crisis is manifesting itself in the form of social, political, and economic upheavals. He discusses major issues such as unemployment, famine, hunger, malnutrition, overpopulation, ethnic wars, power struggles, debt, democracy, colonialism, and corruption. He argues that Africa suffers from the exploitation of outsiders. Based on this argument, Muriithi develops a strategic approach for developing Africa and bringing hope to its people. The study promotes that the three key determinants of African development are positive change in its society and culture, its demography, and its economy. The author suggests that through organization, discipline, education, and coalition, such changes can be made. African Crisis: Is There Hope? will serve as an appropriate text in African Studies courses focusing on the nation's problems, development, economy, and third world crises. This detailed and reflective work will also appeal to students and scholars alike, politicians, African development agents, donors, and world leaders. Description: Book URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4180 Files in this item: 1
African Crisis, Is There Hope.docx (13.97Kb) -
Muriithi, Samuel Muiruri; Ndikumana, L (Cambridge University Press, May 23, 2013)[more][less]
Abstract: exception of Goran Hyden, express similar sentiments about foreig donors in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Most troubling and least empir cally and realistically grounded, are Hyden's arguments that structural adjustment is the "price that Africa is paying for excess...," "an inevitab process... to get African countries to take greater responsibility for the own affairs..." and "provide [s] a sense of relief, maybe even freedom.... Service Provision Under Stress in East Africa provides a captivating and crit ical analysis of service provision in East Africa. Each chapter provides an in- depth look at central issues governments, non-governments, and ordina folks in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are facing as they attempt to provi and access needed services. The calls of contributors to clarify exactly wh privatization means in the era of SAPs is timely. It accomplishes its goal explaining interorganizational relations between the state, foreign donor NGOs, and POs. A section on gender would have been most useful in furthering our understanding of the differential impacts of privatization on women and men as different service provision and service recipient populations. I rec- ommend this book most highly to academicians, policy makers, develop- ment field workers, and students of service provision and organizational behavior. Description: Book URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4179 Files in this item: 1
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Muriithi, Samuel Muiruri (European Journal of Research and Reflection in Management Sciences, 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: Small and medium enterprises (SEMs) are notably the engines that drive economic development. The businesses account for almost 90% of businesses in both leading and developing economies through job creations, employment, tax provision and contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, in Africa, besides their critical and positive role, many SMEs face numerous challenges ranging from power shortage, lack of capital, poor management skills and competencies, and inadequate information and corruption. It is notable that most African governments give very little support to SMEs thereby neglecting a vital economic trigger and should form pillars of development. This paper explored the role played by SMEs, their contributions, challenges and solutions. The paper is based on empirical evidence and current research on SMEs worldwide with a major focus on African SMEs and how to improve their operations and profitability. The paper calls for African governments to develop policies favourable to SMEs development and put them in their development agenda. With appropriate legal framework, business infrastructure, continual power supply and accessible financial supply, SMEs stand to contribute to African development and position the continent as a competitive and innovative and create jobs to unemployed communities thereby providing income and essential goods and services the 1.2 billion Africans, forming a huge market URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3613 Files in this item: 1
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Ayuya, Caroline; Ireri, Niceta W.; Kimani, Irene; Mathenge, Justus; Muriithi, Judith; Otieno, Rose (International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education (IJHSSE), May , 2015)[more][less]
Abstract: Christian scholars are constantly confronting the new challenges of a relentlessly changing intellectual environment including postmodernism amongst others; challenges of integration in the practice of Psychology and how Christian scholars need to integrate the ever-changing intellectual scholarly world their practice, research and scientific inquiry. It is in this context that this paper will first scan the overview of Psychology in Africa. The paper will also look at application of Africa Psychology in Clinical scientific inquiry and practice. It will in addition outline Integration of Christianity and Psychology and finally as it scans the horizons of African worldviews in relation to integrating African world views in Psychological Scientific inquiry. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3714 Files in this item: 1
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Nguru, Faith; Lando, Agnes Lucy (Palgrave Macmillan, Cham, 2018)[more][less]
Abstract: John S. Mbiti, a renowned African theologian, once described Africans as notoriously religious (Mbiti, African Religions & Philosophy. Nairobi: East African Educational Publishers, 1969/2011). The modern expression of their religiosity is found in the two main Christian denominations; the Roman Catholic and the various Protestant denominations as well as remnants of African traditional religions that sometimes find their way into mainstream Christianity. It is against this general background that our discussion in the Black African communication chapter, with a focus on the Africans’ religious perspective, will be anchored. The knowledge system of Christians in the Eastern and Southern regions of Africa forms the context of our study. This chapter analyzes how the religious worldview influences communication patterns and systems at the interpersonal and group communication levels. Description: Book Chapter URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3774 Files in this item: 1
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Kariuki, Scolastica N.; Aloka, Peter J.O. (Sciknow Publications Ltd, 2014)[more][less]
Abstract: Behaviour problems of Kenyan secondary school students have continued to be a great concern. The study investigated age and gender differences in involvement in non-illegal and minorillegal delinquent behaviours among adolescent students in secondary schools in Nairobi, Kenya. The participants comprised 219 females and 191 male students selected by use of stratified and simple random sampling methods. Data was collected using a researcher designed questionnaire. The independent variables were age and gender while the dependent variables were adolescents’ non- illegal (noncompliance and truancy) and minor-illegal (violence, substance abuse and stealing) delinquent behaviours. A correlational survey design was employed and relationships were examined using correlation coefficient statistics. The findings revealed that adolescents’ gender differences in involving in non-illegal delinquent behaviours was χ2 (2df, N=410) =3.709, p = .157 > .05. On the other hand, the adolescents’ gender difference in involvement in minor-illegal delinquent behaviours was χ2 (2df, N=410) = (16.021) p = .000, < .05. There were significant age difference in adolescents’ involvement in non-illegal, t =88.29 (df = 409), p = 000 < .05; and minor non-illegal delinquent behaviours, t = 91.623 df = 409, p = 000 < .05. The study recommended for the use of a multi-faceted approach to adolescents’ behaviour management in schools Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3991 Files in this item: 1
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An Analysis of Emotional Intelligence and the Performance of Principals in Selected Schools in KenyaAyiro, Laban Peter (Sage, 2009)[more][less]
Abstract: The article investigates the degree of association between the emotional intelligence (EI) of school principals and their performance rating. The concept of EI is defined and data collected using the Mayer, Salovey, and Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test. This is related to the performance of the school in terms of test scores in national examinations as well as other measurable variables at the school level. The findings render valuable information indicating that there was a significant relationship between a school principal’s EI and the school’s success as measured by the rating of school principals who participated in the study. The study will enable further exploration into the emotional cognitive and psychological structures of these vital managers in the education sector using established HRD training programmes aimed at improving EI and performance of school principals. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2835 Files in this item: 1
An Analysis of Emotional (197.9Kb) -
Rotumoi, Joseph; Cherui, Rodgers; Pepela, Sammy (Elixir International Journal, April 11, 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: The performance of pupils at the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education in public schools in Kenya remains a challenge since the number of pupils performing poorly is still high. In Matete Sub County, the performance of pupils at KCPE has been declining from the year 2012-2015, with a mean of 2.48. Therefore, the objective of the study was to find out the extent to which government policies affect the academic performance of primary school learners in Matete sub county, Kakamega county. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study population comprised of 49 head teachers, 49 senior teachers, 75 standard eight class teachers, 1759 class eight pupils, and 1 Sub County Quality Assurance Officer. The study sampled 44 head teachers, 44 senior teachers and one sub-county Quality Assurance Officer who were selected through saturated sampling technique. Sixty-three class eight teachers were selected through simple random sampling technique. It also comprised 525 standards 8 pupils, who were selected through stratified sampling technique. Instruments for data collection were questionnaire, interview schedules, focus group discussions and document analysis guide. Face validity of the instruments was ascertained by experts in educational administration. Pilot study was carried out among 15 pupils, 5 head teachers, and 5 senior teachers. A Cronbach’s coefficient alpha of 0.7 was found; hence the instruments were reliable. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data was transcribed and categorized on an on-going process as themes and sub themes emerge. The study showed that Government policies moderately affect academic performance with a mean of 3.39. Staffing policy as one of the government policy profoundly affected KCPE performance with a mean of 4.39. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4215 Files in this item: 1
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Rotumoi, Joseph; Cherui, Rodgers Gowon; Pepela, Sammy (Elixir International Journal, April , 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: The performance of pupils at the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education in public schools in Kenya remains a challenge since the number of pupils performing poorly is still high. In Matete Sub County, the performance of pupils at KCPE has been declining from the year 2012-2015, with a mean of 2.48. Therefore, the objective of the study was to find out the extent to which government policies affect the academic performance of primary school learners in Matete sub county, Kakamega county. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study population comprised of 49 head teachers, 49 senior teachers, 75 standard eight class teachers, 1759 class eight pupils, and 1 Sub County Quality Assurance Officer. The study sampled 44 head teachers, 44 senior teachers and one sub-county Quality Assurance Officer who were selected through saturated sampling technique. Sixty-three class eight teachers were selected through simple random sampling technique. It also comprised 525 standards 8 pupils, who were selected through stratified sampling technique. Instruments for data collection were questionnaire, interview schedules, focus group discussions and document analysis guide. Face validity of the instruments was ascertained by experts in educational administration. Pilot study was carried out among 15 pupils, 5 head teachers, and 5 senior teachers. A Cronbach’s coefficient alpha of 0.7 was found; hence the instruments were reliable. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data was transcribed and categorized on an on-going process as themes and sub themes emerge. The study showed that Government policies moderately affect academic performance with a mean of 3.39. Staffing policy as one of the government policy profoundly affected KCPE performance with a mean of 4.39. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4135 Files in this item: 1
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Maina, Peter; Munene, Alice; Tuikong, Sylvia (International Journal of Environmental and Health Sciences, 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: Due to their tender age and level of maturity, children are usually vulnerable to traumatic experiences. This is compounded by the fact that their mistreatment and neglect is astounding. The degrees of exposure to traumatic events experienced by children have been presented by various studies across the globe but it seems little attention has been given to the specific types of traumatic experiences children face. The purpose of this study was to analyse the types of traumatic events experienced among children in children’s homes in Nyeri County, Kenya. The study adopted a Quasi-experimental research design on a target population of two hundred and thirty five children from two selected children’s homes in Nyeri County. Stratified random sampling procedure was used to arrive at the sample of one hundred and sixty children. The study used semi structured questionnaires and the Child PTSD Symptom Scale (CPSS-SR-V), a PTSD symptom measure based on DSM-5 to collect data from children. The validation of the research instrument was done by subjecting the items in the questionnaire to content validity and its reliability determined using Pearson chi-square test. The data analysis was computed with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Findings from the study generally show that a number of children in children’s homes in Nyeri are exposed to different types of traumatic life events. The research is likely to educate counselors about the types of trauma experienced by children and recommend the most suitable treatment for these traumatic experiences. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3570 Files in this item: 1
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