School of Science, Engineering and Health: Recent submissions
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Mbwayo, Anne; Kiarie, Martha; Ndegwa, Jacinta (SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, March , 2022)[more][less]
Abstract: Depression is a serious mental disease that affects both young and old people in the society. People who have gone through adverse life events are more likely to develop depression. Depression can, in turn, lead to more stress and dysfunction, and worsen the affected person’s life situation and the depression. The objective of this study was to establish the factors related to depression among university students in Kenya. A quasi-experimental research design was adopted, where two Kenyan public universities were conveniently sampled. Experimental sample was obtained from one university and control sample from the other university. .The study data was collected using questionnaires and the Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI). The prevalence of depression was determined through proportions obtained from the data from the BDI at the different stages of the study. The findings revealed that interpersonal relationships were key in determining depression levels among the students. The study concluded that various factors are related to depression among university students which include age, year of study, expenditure, friendship, dependents, leadership and club membership. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3976 Files in this item: 1
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Kang, Joo-Oh; Jeong, Dong Kwan; Lee, Dong-Kyu; Kang, Hyesook; Kiarie-Makara, Martha (Entomological Research, January , 2011)[more][less]
Abstract: A granular formulation of 1.0% temephos (temephos G) was tested for its efficacy in mosquito larval control, residual effects and effects on non-target microorganisms. Culex pipiens complex in septic tanks in Yangsan, Republic of Korea were used for this study. Microorganisms in the same septic tanks were used for study of non-target organisms. After the application of temephos G at the rates of 2.0 and 5.0 mg/L to selected septic tanks, mortalities were recorded for 50 days. The effect of temephos G on non-target organisms was studied by evaluating its effects on the bacterial populations in the treated septic tanks. It was observed that using 1.0% temephos G at a rate of 2.0 mg/L resulted in 100% mortality against Cx. pipiens larvae by the eighth day after treatment. The residual activity of temephos G was observed to continue for a time; for example 29 days after treatment, average larval mortality rates of >68.0% were observed for both concentrations. At the 50th day after treatment, the mortality rates of the Cx. pipiens larvae were observed to decrease to below 42.7% for both concentrations. Application of temephos G did not have significant effects on the bacteria populations in the septic tanks. Since temephos did not seem to have any major effects on the microorganisms, it was concluded that it is a safe and effective larvicide to use in the septic tanks at a rate of 2.0–5.0 mg/L of 1.0% temephos G. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3975 Files in this item: 1
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Opiyo, Monica Naomi; Kenyon, Christopher; Manwani, Kajal; Seckl, Jonathan; Andrew, Ruth; Chapman, Karen (Endocrine Abstracts, 34, 2014)[more][less]
Abstract: Background and aims: Bile acids are conserved through enterohepatic circulation, a glucocorticoid-modulated process. 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-1 (11β-HSD1) converts cortisone/11-dehydrocortisone to cortisol/corticosterone, thus increasing intracellular glucocorticoid levels. 11β-HSD1 also metabolises 7-oxo-lithocholic acid, a bile acid. 11β-HSD1 is highly expressed in the liver and may alter bile acid transport through regeneration of active glucocorticoids or may directly metabolise bile acids, thus altering profile. We compared bile acid synthesis, release, their enterohepatic circulation and profile in Hsd11b1−/− and isogenic C57Bl/6 control mice. Methods: Adult male, chow-fed mice (eight per group) were fasted for 4 h or fasted for 4 h then re-fed 4 h. Serum, and liver and gall-bladder bile acid concentrations and profiles were measured by spectrophotometry/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Results: Fasted Hsd11b1−/− and C57Bl/6 mice had similar volumes of bile (3.2 vs 5.0 l). 7β-Hydroxylated acids (ω-muricholic>β-muricholic>ursodeoxycholic acid>others) predominated in bile of C57Bl/6 mice while 7α-hydroxylated acids (cholic>α-muricholic>chenodeoxycholic acid>others) predominated in Hsd11b1−/− mice; the ratio of 7α:7β acids was >100 greater in Hsd11b1−/−mice. In fasted Hsd11b1− mice, bile acid concentrations were higher in serum (Hsd11b1−/−: 30±9 vs C57Bl/6: 3.8±1.3 nM, P<0.0001) and liver (Hsd11b1−/−: 243±18 vs C57Bl/6: 139±19 nmol/g, P<0.001). Re-feeding caused gall bladder emptying in C57Bl/6 mice (49.6±8% of fasted weight, P<0.0001) and increased serum (62.5±7.6 nM) and liver (497±20 nmol/g) bile acid concentrations, while in Hsd11b1− mice, the gall bladder did not empty (92±7.8% fasted weight) and serum (24±12 nM) and liver (122±21 nmol/g) bile acid concentrations were similar to the fasted state. Conclusion: Bile acid release and the pattern of synthesis is controlled by 11β-HSD1 activity in mice. This may affect digestion and, depending on functional differences of 7α- and 7β- hydroxylated bile acids, may have significant effects on lipid and sterol metabolism and bile acid-mediated transcription. Description: Abstract URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3960 Files in this item: 1
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Electrophoretic Deposition of TiO2/Nb2O5 Composite Electrode Thin Films for Photovoltaic ApplicationNguu, John Njagi; Aduda, Bernard Odhiambo; Nyongesa, Francis Wanjala; Musembi, Robinson Juma (Electrophoretic Deposition of TiO2/Nb2O5 Composite Electrode Thin Films for Photovoltaic Application. Journal of Energy and Power Engineering 8 (2014) 757-764, April , 2014)[more][less]
Abstract: Nano sized powders of TiO2 (titanium dioxide) and Nb2O5 (Niobium (V) oxide) were used to fabricate TiO2/Nb2O5 composites thin films by EPD (electrophoretic deposition) technique. The metal oxide powders, together with magnesium nitrate hexahydrate pellets, were suspended in propan-2-ol inside an EPD cell. The electrodes, placed 1.2 cm apart, were partially immersed in the suspension and a DC potential applied across them. Key EPD process parameters, which include applied DC electric field, deposition time and solid concentration in suspension, were optimized through visual inspection and from UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer spectra. The highest (55%) transmittance was obtained for films with deposition time of 90 s, powder concentration of 0.01 g/40 mL, and 35 V DC (direct current) voltage. XRD micrographs confirmed that TiO2 and Nb2O5 particles were presented in the composite film. SEM (scanning electron microscope) micrographs of the composite electrode thin films showed that porous films of high quality with well controlled morphology were deposited by using the EPD technique. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3958 Files in this item: 1
Electrophoretic deposition.pdf (623.7Kb) -
Ntwiga, Davis Bundi; Weke, Patrick; Kirumbu, Michael Kiura (Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems, March 18, 2016)[more][less]
Abstract: For effective interactions to take place in a social network, trust is important. We model trust of agents using the peer to peer reputation ratings in the network that forms a real valued matrix. Singular value decomposition discounts the reputation ratings to estimate the trust levels as trust is the subjective probability of future expectations based on current reputation ratings. Reputation and trust are closely related and singular value decomposition can estimate trust using the real valued matrix of the reputation ratings of the agents in the network. Singular value decomposition is an ideal technique in error elimination when estimating trust from reputation ratings. Reputation estimation of trust is optimal at the discounting of 20 %. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3956 Files in this item: 1
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Odero, Collince; Kiarie, Martha (December 13, 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: Background :Globally, 2.5 billion cases of diarrhoea occur among under-fives every year. Diarrhoea, a major cause of morbidity accounts for over 70% of childhood diseases in Africa. In Kenya, diarrhoea is a major public health problem, listed amongst the leading causes of mortality and morbidity amongst under-fives. Objective: To determine the environmental factors associated with diarrhoea among children under 5 years in Migori County. Methodology: Quantitative approach was used where data collection involved a questionnaire. A total of 216 under- five children were sampled using multistage sampling technique. Analysis of data included generating descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square tests). Results: Findings revealed that the environmental factors including method of refuse disposal (p<0.001); latrine availability (p = 0.001); latrine type (p = 0.037);latrine sharing (p<0.001); source of drinking water (p = 0.009); water storage (p = 0.002); method of drawing water (p = 0.005); scooper cleaning (p<0.001); cleaning water container before refilling (p = 0.034); and drinking water treatment (p = 0.010)had an effect on the occurrence of diarrhea in under-five year old children. Discussions :A number of other environmental characteristics of mothers (or caregivers) of under-fives were found to be associated with diarrhoea in this study. Under five diarrhoea morbidity can be minimized if concerted efforts are made to improve waste disposal, increase latrine availability, reduce latrine sharing, improve drinking water source, treat drinking water, improve water storage and hygiene. Conclusion: The environmental determinants of diarrhoea morbidity identified should be addressed to prevent occurrence of diarrhoea disease among under-fives. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3953 Files in this item: 1
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Ngure, Geoffrey; Kamau, N.V; Di, Bet; Ra, Lugali; Wangila, A; Ngari, W; Mburu, W (African Journal of Health Sciences,, March , 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: Background:A cross sectional study to establish the levels of heavy metals and other potentially harmful elements (PHEs)present in samples obtained from selected open waste water channels in Nairobi industrial area (Kenya) was carried out. The waste water channels selected were those near the factories or those directly discharging from factories. The samples collected included mosquitoes (larvae and adults), waste water, green algae, and soil. Unmaintained open waste water channels are among the man made features that enhance the breeding of urban mosquitoes because they tend to have overgrown vegetation and trapped solid wastes which slow or inhibit the waste water flow. Different mosquito species have previously transmitted arboviruses including those responsible for dangerous fevers such as West Nile, Rift Valley, Zika, Dengue, Yellow, and Chikungunya among others in different parts of the world. The study area (Nairobi industrial area) neighbors several densely populated informal human settlements. This paper specifically reports on composition and distribution of mosquito species obtained from the study area. Methods:The fourth instars mosquito larvae were collected from waste water channels using the standard dipping method. Adult mosquitoes were trapped using the center for disease control and prevention (CDC) light traps. Purposive random sampling for mosquito adults and larvae was carried out in industrial premises and waste water channels respectively at seven locations. This involved selecting sampling sites from which mosquito samples were likely to be obtained. The mosquitoes were then microscopically identified using taxonomic keys for the Ethiopian and East African region. Results:Out of 2,926 adult mosquitoes trapped, 12 species were identified including Cx. pipiens (95%); Cx. Vansomereni (2.6%); Cx. zombaensis (1.4%); Cx. univittatus (0.34%); Cx. theileri (0.21%); Ae. aegpti (0.14%); An. maculipalpis (0.03%); An. squamosus (0.03%) and other culicid species (0.20%). Of these adult mosquitoes, Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3952 Files in this item: 1
Survey of urban mosquitoes species.pdf (869.9Kb) -
Wambua, Anthony W.; Maake, Benard (International Journal of Software Engineering and Computer Systems, August , 2022)[more][less]
Abstract: Given the increased reliance on technology, Software Quality Assurance(SQA) has become a vital area in Software Engineering (SE). SQA practices require training, cost and often take more time than actual code writing. Owing to these requirements, software developers often ignore or partly implement SQA practices, leading to potentially poor quality software development. The goal of the study is to characterise SQA practices of software developers in Kenya. As such, quantitative empirical research was conducted. Seventy-seven (N=77) completed questionnaires were received and analysed to yield the required insights. The analysis of the findings indicates compliance with SQA practices. However, the research unearths concerns such as failure to comply with Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) models as having the potential to lower the quality of software products. The assessment found that Unit testing was the most common type of software test. Based on the findings and literature, recommendations are made. The need to improve software engineering education and invest in software testing is underscored. The results can be generalised to most developing countries and used by software developers and trainers to identify areas in SQA that need strengthening Description: Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3891 Files in this item: 1
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Gitonga, Myra O.; Wambua, Anthony W (CEDRED Publications, 2020)[more][less]
Abstract: eLearning can be defined as learning conducted via electronic media, or technology assisted learning typically over the Internet. It is an area that came into existence more than a decade ago and has then evolved slowly being introduced as part of technology assisted learning, especially in Kenya. First it has been integrated into a blended learning as both learners and teachers ensure pedagogy and proper use of tools. However, with the present pandemic of COVID-19, countries have been forced to close institutions of learning indefinitely. Education has a direct impact on sustainable development therefore learning needs to go on. So, it is on this basis that various learning tools have quickly been adapted with speed so that learning may progress. In Kenya, different university lecturers adopted several eLearning tools informally or formally. This paper investigates tools that are being used during this difficult period. Further, the effectiveness of the tools as far as the learners and field of study is concerned is investigated. Another objective was to find out the extent to which mobility devices were used for eLearning. Effectiveness is assessed using factors such as the satisfaction of the students in relation to the achievement of their learning objective is assessed. In addition, as this research seek to finds out eLearning tools that were applied it will relate effectiveness to how favorable the learner’s environment and infrastructure supported their application. Primary data was collected using online questionnaires to the learners and teachers using an online research tool. The scope covered a study of science and computing students in a private institution of higher learning in Kenya. A total of 48 students from the faculty of science of a private university participated in the research. The analysis of the effectiveness of eLearning Description: Book Chapter URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3810 Files in this item: 1
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Arap Sang, Richard Kiplangat; Obwoge, Ronald Omenge; Kangethe, Simon; Ayiro, Laban Peter; Changeiywo, Johnson Masai (Science Journal of Public Health, July , 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major cause of high morbidity and mortality in Kenya. Adherence to TB treatment is one of the interventions that lead to increase in cure rate thus reducing mortality and emergence of Multi drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR) and high cost of treatment. This study focused on TB patients in urban and rural areas of Kericho and Nakuru Counties. The study was to determine the patient factors which contribute to non-adherence to TB treatment. A purposive sampling method was used to carry out a cross sectional descriptive survey with retrospective cohort of nonadherent TB patients. Target population was smear positive TB patients registered in the TB registers in the two counties, within the past six months at the commencement date of the study. Data was collected using adopted/ developed observation forms/checklists, interview schedules and questionnaires. Respondents were traced non-adherent smear positive TB patients (defaulters), care supporters and health care workers. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS platform. Age, gender, inadequate knowledge, ignorance on need for treatment adherence, stigma, alcoholism, social and economic factors such as low income, lack of social support, low education, financial problems, drug side effects were analyzed. Feeling well soon after medication initiation, drug side effects, low educational level, poor financial status, unemployment, shortage of Tb drugs including unavailability of pyridoxine which is essential in counteracting drug side effects and were associated with defaulting. Staff should also intensify adherence counselling targeting effect of personal factor to adherence. The County of Nakuru and Kericho’s Ministry of Health to increase awareness on Tb and make the public aware of the importance of TB control. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3784 Files in this item: 1
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Ettyang, Grace A. K.; Sawe, Caroline J.; Ayiro, Laban Peter (World Nutrition, 2019)[more][less]
Abstract: Background Child stunting reflects chronic under-nutrition, which often begins before birth and is almost irreversible after the second year of life. Globally, by 2018, an estimated 140 million children under the age of 5 years were stunted. Over one-third each lived in South East Asia (34.4%) and Eastern and South Africa (33.6%). This condition puts children at disadvantages due to partly irreversible physical and cognitive damage. This poorly nourished beginning has consequences that include persistent poverty, worsening inequality, higher health care costs and weaker national economies. Early detection of stunting is a key factor to any prevention strategy. Objective To examine the relationship between child, maternal, household, and gender inequality characteristics with early onset of child stunting in Kenya and Cambodia. Methods The study analyzed data from the 2014 Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) in Kenya and Cambodia for children under age 2. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to find associations between the variables and child stunting. Results The prevalence of stunting among children under age 2 in Kenya was 22%, and in Cambodia, 25%. Child’s age, perceived birth size, family wealth status, and region of residence were significantly associated with stunting. In both countries children from the richest households had 0.4 times lower odds of being stunted compared with those from the poorest households. In Kenya, female children had 0.6 times lower odds of being stunted compared with male children. In Cambodia, children from rural areas had 0.6 times lower odds of being stunted compared with those from urban areas, while children whose mothers were underweight had 1.7 times higher odds of being stunted than children whose mothers were not underweight. In both countries, there was general lack of a strong and significant relationship between the DHS indicators of gender inequality and child stunting. Conclusions Children’s characteristics, household wealth and maternal underweight were more important in predicting stunting in these children under two years of age than factors related to gender inequality. A more extensive analysis of future DHS data that includes other aspects of gender inequality such as decisions on choice and preparation of food, purchase of household goods, as well as gender-based barriers to provision of child care might provide additional insights on that potential determinant of early stunting. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3778 Files in this item: 1
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Katwa, J. K; Ayiro, Laban Peter; Baliddawa, J; Kei, R (World Journal of Medical Education and Research, 2018)[more][less]
Abstract: Background: Community-based education has been introduced in many medical schools around the globe, but evaluation of instructional quality has remained a critical issue. Community-based education is an approach that aims to prepare students for future professional work at the community level. Instructional quality should be measured based on a program’s outcomes.. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the successes and limitation of COBES. Methods: 274 students, 65 lecturers and 9 administrators were recruited into the study. Self-administered questionnaires with both qualitative and quantitative were used in data collection. Questionnaire utilized a five point Likert scale (1-Totaly disagree, 2-Disagree, 3- Not Sure 4-Agree and 5-Totally Agree).. Cronbach’s alpha, median and inter-quartile range (IQR) was calculated in SPSS 22.P-value less than or equal to 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review and Ethics Committee (IREC) of Moi University and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. Results: The response rate among students was 250 (91%), 65 (48%) among lecturers and 9 (100%) among administrators. 77% of students accepted that the college is short of vehicles for COBES. Majority of the students felt that COBES provides an opportunity to meet real life problems of the community and is challenged to provide solutions to the existing health problems. Participant 098 stated that “COBES Provides different approach to solving problems and alternative and realistic approach in seeking answers to actual health problems”. Conclusions: Community based education motivates students to practice community health care. In addition, their motivation is increased by the health education activity. Participating in this activity probably produces a positive effect and improves the instructional quality of the program based on its outcomes. Policy Implications: Community based education during medical school has a positive effect on students. However, the adoption has been met with some concern, primarily because of the substantial manpower and means of transport. COBES becomes a major concern when there are limited resources available. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3777 Files in this item: 1
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Wambua, Anthony; Wamuyu, Patrick Kanyi (IST-Africa 2020 Conference Proceedings, 2020)[more][less]
Abstract: Existing literature shows that even though governments in developing countries have continued in their efforts with reforms and other actions to expand financial access and inclusion among citizens, a segment of the population remains excluded. This comprises of low income and middle-class people who end up relying on informal saving groups for their financial needs. Despite their prevalence and importance, the informal saving groups such as Rotating Saving and Credit Associations (ROSCAs) and Accumulating Savings and Credit Association (ASCAs) continue to face a myriad of challenges with many of them collapsing. The aim of this study is to explore the usage of mobile apps to overcome the challenges faced by the ROSCAs and ASCAs. Agile software methodology was used to develop a robust mobile application for use by informal saving groups. Adoption of mobile apps technologies is important to the informal financial sector and the formal financial sector that is linked to these informal saving groups such as banks and microfinance institutions. The study reveals that the use of mobile apps was a plausible solution to the challenges experienced by the members of the informal savings groups while handling monetary transactions. Description: Conferencing Proceedings URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3761 Files in this item: 1
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Ngure, Peter; Nzau, Anastasia; Kiarie, Martha; Waithima, Abraham K.; Bowen, Michael; Ingonga, Johnstone; Ngumbi, Philip (Annals of Clinical Cytology and Pathology, 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: Objective: The objective of this study was to assess if improved housing would result in reduced sand fly-human contact which in turn would be assumed to result in reduced chances of leishmaniasis transmission. The transmission of leishmaniasis is heavily influenced by socio-economic factors and this is the main reason why it has been described as the disease of the poor. Methods: This studied compared the sand fly densities in targeted houses before and after improvement. The houses to be improved were selected based on indoor sand fly density, construction materials and economic status of the household. These houses were upgraded to two-roomed corrugated iron sheet houses. Sand fly densities were determined using CDC light traps in the mud and stick-walled grass-thatched houses before moving the occupants to houses made of corrugated iron sheets. 146 houses were used, selected from 670 in the 4 villages. Findings: There were significant differences (p< 0.05) in sand fly densities between the mud, stick-walled houses and the corrugated iron sheet houses; the improved houses had fewer sand flies. The average density of sand flies in stick-walled houses ranged from 32 to 13 compared to 4 to 1 in corrugated iron sheet houses. Conclusion: The improved housing reduces the density of sand flies indoors; in turn reducing the vector–human contact hence reducing the chances of infective bites. This strategy is long lasting and has additional benefits to residents. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3566 Files in this item: 1
From Mud and Stick-Walled Houses to.pdf (1.882Mb) -
Kiarie, Martha; Nzau, Anastasia; Ngumbi, Philip; Waithima, Abraham K.; Bowen, Michael; Nzunza, Rosemary; Ingonga, Johnstone; Ngure, Peter (International Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health, 2016)[more][less]
Abstract: Objective: To establish the level of knowledge, attitude, practices and beliefs related to kala azar among residents of Marigat sub - County, Baringo County. Methods: The sub-County is divided into 37 sub-locations and of these 8 herein referred to as villages were considered for this study. A total of 670 households were randomly drawn from the 8 villages, and this formed the sample population. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews of key informants. Results: The findings indicated that the respondents were well informed on kala azar; the cause and treatment. They also had favorable attitude toward the disease. They were aware that the disease was curable and sought treatment from health facilities as opposed to traditional alternatives. In seeking treatment, the residents were faced with challenges such as the long distance to health facilities, long period of treatment and the attendant cost of caring for a leishmaniasis patient. The respondents were aware that the disease was spread by an insect; however, they were not aware of preventive measures. Most live in destitute houses which predisposed them to the infective bite of the vector. Most of the respondents are not employed and the cost of treatment, in addition to attendant costs places a heavy economic burden on them. Conclusion: The results showed good awareness of leishmaniasis, positive attitude and practices among the respondents which are important attributes in community participation. These findings are quite encouraging to researchers planning control programs because such a community would be more receptive to suggested control measures. Description: Published Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3543 Files in this item: 1
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Murimi, Mary; Chrisman, Matthew S.; McAllister, Tiffany; McDonald, Olevia D. (Health Education & Behavior, 2015)
[more][less]Abstract: Approximately 8.3% of the U.S. population (25.8 million people) is affected by type 2 diabetes. The burden of diabetes is disproportionately greater in the African American community. Compared with non-Hispanic Caucasian adults, the risk of diagnosed type 2 diabetes was 77% higher among non-Hispanic Blacks, who are 27% more likely to die of diabetes complications than either Caucasians or Hispanics. The purpose of this longitudinal community intervention was to promote healthy lifestyles among African American participants through multiple channels, including individualized point-of-testing counseling, and weekly exercise and nutrition classes led by trained community health mentors. Data collection procedures were guided by the World Health Organization’s STEPS approach, which includes gathering demographic and health information, collecting anthropometric measurements, and analyzing biochemical blood work. Changes in body mass index were assessed from in-person measurements and changes in blood lipids and glucose were examined by biochemical analyses. A total of 157 individuals participated in this study. Results showed that weight gain during the intervention was prevented, glucose levels decreased (−10.88 mg/dL), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased (−8.8 mg/dL), while high-density lipoprotein increased (+3.2 mg/dL). Lifestyle interventions and point-of-testing counseling can be successful in reducing risk factors for type 2 diabetes among the African American population. The results of this intervention indicate that the use of community health mentors and point-of-testing counseling may be effective in fostering healthy lifestyle changes, which can halt the progression of type 2 diabetes among non-Hispanic Black populations. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2981 Files in this item: 1
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Murimi, Mary W.; Mupfudze, T; Mbogori, Teresia N.; Amin, M R (Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, 2016)[more][less]
Abstract: Abstract Objective To determine the prevalence of food insecurity and the coping strategies and to investigate the role of safety nets among low-income households in urban and rural west Texas. Design The Core Food Security Module, an 18-item scale, was used in a cross-sectional purposeful convenience sample comparing rural and urban households, whereas the demographic survey assessed participation in food assistance/safety net programs. Setting Rural and urban neighborhoods in west Texas. Participants Sample size of 191 participants from low-income households, predominantly African American and Hispanic people. Main Outcomes Measures Levels of food insecurity and use of safety nets. Analyses Comparisons between rural and urban households and between food-secure and food-insecure households were analyzed using the chi-square test of independence for categorical variables. Fisher's exact test was used whenever the number in each cell was < 5 in 2 × 2 contingency tables. Results Prevalence of household and child food insecurity in west Texas was 63% and 43%, respectively. Forgoing balanced meals was a common coping strategy. There was high intake of affordable energy-intense foods. Conclusions and Implications The high prevalence of food insecurity in low-income households in west Texas led to high intake of energy-intense food with low nutrients, resulting in higher prevalence of anemia, obesity, and other chronic diseases. There was low participation in safety net programs. Educational interventions on food choices are recommended. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2979 Files in this item: 1
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Murimi, Mary W.; Moyeda-Carabaza, A F (Cambridge University Press, 2017)
[more][less]Abstract: Maternal and child health (MCH) consists of an interdependent reproductive system that collectively determines the survival of the mother during childbirth, and determines the health and survival of the child. This interdependency underscores the importance of appropriate and timely interventions during pregnancy through the first 1000 d at the minimum. The Millennium Development Goals (MDG) recommended the use of the continuum of care for the development of interventions by addressing all the stages of MCH. The purpose of the present paper is to review the factors that contributed to the attainment of the MDG 4 and MDG 5 by analysing the interventions conducted by the countries that achieved at least 5·0 and 5·5 %, respectively, and determine the level of their intervention based on the MCH conceptual framework. Out of the eighteen selected countries discussed, fifteen countries achieved their target for either MDG 4 or MDG 5 or both, while three countries did not achieve their target. The countries that were more likely to achieve their targets addressed the societal, underlying and direct causes, and implemented country wide policies. In contrast, the countries that did not succeed were more likely to address the direct causes with poor policy implementation. Understanding the motivation and limitations of the target population, including nutrition education and targeting behaviour change has the potential to result in sustainable MCH. This information has the potential to enlighten the policymakers as we progress to the sustainable development goals, specifically goals 2 and 3. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2978 Files in this item: 1
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Sang, Richard Kiplangat; Obwoge, Ronald Omenge; Kangethe, Simon; Ayiro, Laban Peter; Changeiywo, Johnson Masai (Science Journal of Public Health, July 3, 2017)
[more][less]Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major cause of high morbidity and mortality in Kenya. Adherence to TB treatment is one of the interventions that lead to increase in cure rate thus reducing mortality and emergence of Multi drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR) and high cost of treatment. This study focused on TB patients in urban and rural areas of Kericho and Nakuru Counties. The study was to determine the patient factors which contribute to non-adherence to TB treatment. A purposive sampling method was used to carry out a cross sectional descriptive survey with retrospective cohort of nonadherent TB patients. Target population was smear positive TB patients registered in the TB registers in the two counties, within the past six months at the commencement date of the study. Data was collected using adopted/ developed observation forms/checklists, interview schedules and questionnaires. Respondents were traced non-adherent smear positive TB patients (defaulters), care supporters and health care workers. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS platform. Age, gender, inadequate knowledge, ignorance on need for treatment adherence, stigma, alcoholism, social and economic factors such as low income, lack of social support, low education, financial problems, drug side effects were analyzed. Feeling well soon after medication initiation, drug side effects, low educational level, poor financial status, unemployment, shortage of Tb drugs including unavailability of pyridoxine which is essential in counteracting drug side effects and were associated with defaulting. Staff should also intensify adherence counselling targeting effect of personal factor to adherence. The County of Nakuru and Kericho’s Ministry of Health to increase awareness on Tb and make the public aware of the importance of TB control. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2967 Files in this item: 1
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Ntwiga, Davis Bundi; Weke, Patrick; Kirumbu, Michael Kiura (Interdisciplinary Description of Complex Systems, June 1, 2016)
[more][less]Abstract: For effective interactions to take place in a social network, trust is important. We model trust of agents using the peer to peer reputation ratings in the network that forms a real valued matrix. Singular value decomposition discounts the reputation ratings to estimate the trust levels as trust is the subjective probability of future expectations based on current reputation ratings. Reputation and trust are closely related and singular value decomposition can estimate trust using the real valued matrix of the reputation ratings of the agents in the network. Singular value decomposition is an ideal technique in error elimination when estimating trust from reputation ratings. Reputation estimation of trust is optimal at the discounting of 20 %. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2964 Files in this item: 1