2nd International Research Conference Proceedings Chuka University, 2015

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2nd International Research Conference Proceedings. Theme: ‘Mainstreaming Research Commercialization for Sustainable Development’: Preliminary pages.
(Chuka University, 2016) Isutsa, D. K. and Githae, E.W. (Eds.)
A Note on Quasi-Similarity of Operators in Hilbert Spaces
(Chuka University, 2016) Sitati, I.N.; Musundi, S.W.
This paper reports on the notion of Quasi-similarity of bounded linear operators in Hilbert Spaces, defines a quasi-affinity from one Hilbert Space H to K and discusses results on quasi-affinities. It has been shown that on a finite dimensional Hilbert Space, quasi-similarity is an equivalence relation; it is reflexive, symmetric and transitive. Using the definition of commutants of two operators, an alternative result is given to show that quasi-similarity is an equivalence relation on an infinite dimensional Hilbert Space. The relationship between quasi-similarity and almost similarity equivalence relations in Hilbert Spaces using hermitian and normal operators is established.
Agent-Based Online Secure Disks Using NASD Model Approach
(Chuka University, 2016) Osero, B.O.
Increasing performance and decreasing cost of microprocessors make it feasible to move processing power to the data source. This allowed us to investigate new methods of storage delivery and management not plausible in the past. Our architecture, inspired by agent-based techniques and active disk technology, promotes an open storage management framework that embeds functionality into storage devices. We use local agents to implement self-control with automated capability that can be dynamically adapted to meet storage management through improved search capabilities in the virtual environment and also retain capabilities like security, performance and availability. This paper reports experimentation on how storage virtualisation of network attached devices improves performance by using NASD model, explains attempts in building mobile agent environments on network attached disks, and demonstrates proposed framework that employs mobile agents to supplement the existing NASD model.
Application of Progressivist’s Learner-Centered Approaches in Teaching and Learning of Mathematics in Public Primary Schools.
(Chuka University, 2016) Mwangi, S.N.; Ogola, F.; Barchok, H.
This study assessed application of Progressivism`s Learner-Centered approaches of teaching mathematics among pupils in public primary school in Meru South Sub-County. It employed descriptive survey research design. The target population was 5,547 subjects of which 5,160 were pupils and 387 were teachers from all the public primary schools within Meru South Sub-County. Purposive sampling techniques and simple random sampling were used to obtain a sample size of 378 respondents. The study employed two sets of questionnaires to collect data, one for pupils and the other for mathematics teachers. Teacher-centered teaching and learning approaches were applied to a great extent in Meru South Sub-County. Factors hindering application of Progressivists’ learner-centered teaching and learning approaches included scarcity of teaching resources, large class sizes and wide mathematics syllabus. Pupils should be encouraged to read mathematics textbooks, make their own notes and conclusions. The study provides valuable reference for various education stakeholders such as the teachers, curriculum developers and policy makers on learner-centered approaches to enhance teaching of Mathematics.
Application of response surface methodology for optimization of potato tuber yield.
(Chuka University, 2015-10-28) Muriithi, D.K
This study investigated the operating conditions required for optimal production of potato tuber yield in Kenya to help potato farmers to save extra cost of input in potato farming. The potato production process was optimized by the application of factorial design 23 and response surface methodology. The combined effects of water, nitrogen and phosphorus mineral nutrients were investigated and optimized using response surface methodology. It was found that the optimum production conditions for the potato tuber yield were 70.04% irrigation water, 124.75 kg/ha of nitrogen supplied as urea and 191.04 kg/ha phosphorus supplied as triple super phosphate. At the optimum condition, one can reach to a potato tuber yield of 19.36 kg/plot of 1.8 m x 2.25 m. Increased productivity of potatoes can improve the livelihood of smallholder potato farmers in Kenya and save costs of inputs. The approach applied in this study of potatoes can be useful for research on other commodities, leading to a better understanding of overall crop production. Keywords: Potato, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Factorial design, Experiment
Assessment of agricultural revolution for development and social integration in global perspective
(Chuka University, 2016) Mulati, J.C., Chebai, C. and Lisaswa, C.A.
The agricultural revolution for development study is a historical survey that evaluates the role of agriculture in mainstreaming players in the industry. The present study was premised on the background that besides societal transformations that accompanied agricultural revolution it set in motion a broad spectrum of social exclusion since Neolithic period. The overall objective assessed agricultural revolution for development and social inclusivity. Specific objectives examined the nature and dynamics of agricultural revolution, challenges to agricultural revolution and social integration and examination of measures for social inclusion to enhance sustainable agricultural development. The study was informed by articulation of mode of production theory. The researcher applied historical and descriptive research designs. Data collection instruments involved observations and semi-structured interviews. Primary data entailed visiting archaeological sites to observe ancient agricultural tools, while secondary data involved documentary analysis, journals, theses, books, professional magazines, reports, internet, published and unpublished sources. The gathered data was analyzed qualitatively. The study findings were as follows: agricultural revolution excluded women, youths, people with disability, the poor, technological transformation, and divided society into owners of the means of production and the farm workers. Agricultural serfdom attitude of the medieval period influenced the role of the youths and agriculture trained professionals in regard to practicing agriculture. Finally agricultural revolution has been a vehicle for knowledge, industrial revolution, human, plant and animal domestication. The study recommends broad-based policies that capture social inclusivity, bottom-up approaches, affordable and appropriate technological innovations that are in tandem with consumer needs. Agricultural social inclusion is a catalyst to sustainable agricultural revolution for rural and urban development.
Assessment of trace elements concentration in environmental and geological samples in selected areas of Igambang’ombe constituency in, Tharaka-Nithi county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2015-10-28) Mutie, M.M., Njogu, S., Amanai, J.O. and Murigi, F.N
Assessment of Utilization of Counselling Services Among Students in Kenyan Universities
(Chuka University, 2016) Karimi, J.
In Kenya, guidance and counselling has been appreciated as an integral part of education and it seeks to address and resolve problems so that one can live at peace with oneself in the environment. Despite the existence of guidance and counselling services in Kenyan universities, needs continue to be reported among students. This study assessed the level of utilization of counselling services among students in Kenyan universities. Descriptive survey research design was used. Student needs assessment questionnaire, peer counselors questionnaire and an interview schedule were used to collect data from 486 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The majority of the students did not utilize the counselling services offered in the universities. Thus universities should sensitize students on importance of seeking counselling services available.
Attack Susceptibility of Known Attacks on IEEE 802.11 Public WLAN
(Chuka University, 2016) Mwathi, D.G.; Opiyo, E.; Odongo, O.
Besides WLAN networks popularity in many places, they have security concerns. Whereas efforts have been made to address the security concerns, design flaws in the security mechanisms of IEEE 802.11 standard such as support for vulnerable authentication methods, and poor configurations give rise to a number of potential attacks. Consequently, readily available WLAN attack software tools make exploitation of these weaknesses relatively easy. This paper describes various WLAN attacks together with the vulnerabilities exploited and analyzes the attack susceptibility based on availability of attack tools and ease of their usage in the context of developing countries. The researcher analyzed attack susceptibility of 30 attack tools. Findings revealed that there are many tools that can be used to exploit WLAN vulnerabilities to launch attacks. The attack susceptibility of denial of service, man in the middle and cipher suite attacks were high. Many of the attack tools were open source, multi-platform and downloadable from the vendor website which made their usage level high. The high attack susceptibility suggested that the risk of attack is quite high in developing countries where institutions allocate low budgets on computer and network security design and implementation. Although all risks in using a WLAN network cannot be mitigated, keeping up-to date and implementing all reasonable measures should make WLAN reasonably safe from attack. Institutions need to prioritise and allocate reasonable resources to protecting WLANs against attacks.
Bean Seed Contamination by Pathogens and Current Management Strategies in Muranga and Kiambu Counties
(Chuka University, 2016) Kihara, S.N., Kuria, S.N. Kamau, M.W., Kamau, E.M. and Karanja, D.
Good agricultural practices require planting of correct and clean materials. A study to determine bean farming practices and assessment of the importance of seed-borne diseases in common beans in Murang’a and Kiambu Counties was conducted. Evaluation for seed type used and performance of farm-saved and certified seed in farmers’ fields and marketing of produce was done in July to August, 2015. Forty farmers per county were involved and 0.5 kg sample of beans was collected from each participating household and tested for pathogen contamination. Only 1% of the farmers used certified seeds and only 5% produced enough to eat and surplus for sale. Over 60% were aware of Arthropod pests but not diseases and seeds; 73.8% did not sort seeds. The common pathogens detected were: Colletotricum lindemuthianum, Fusarium sp., Alternaria alternata, Penicillium, spp., Asperigillius sp., Xanthomonas and Pseudomonas spp. These pathogens were prevalent in 1-5% of certified seed. Certified seeds had significantly (P<0.05) better weight than farm-saved seeds. Farmers preferred their own saved seed than certified ones, and did not consider importance of seed sorting and use of certified seeds to improve crop health and quality of produce. Farmers need training on good bean farming practices for realization of locked potential. The effect of soil fertility on grain yield of beans needs quick intervention for farmers to realize the importance of inputs.
Biocontrol of Green Mould Disease of Oyster mushroom using (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens)
(Chuka University, 2016-10-28) Mwangi, R.W., Wagara, I.N. and Kariuki, S.T.
The occurrence of Trichoderma harzianum and T. asperellum in cultivation of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) frequently results in serious crop losses and considerable inhibition of growth of mycelium and fruit bodies of Oyster mushroom, lowering yields substantially. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain isolated from groundnuts proved very effective antagonizism of oyster mushroom pathogenic T. harzianum and T. asperellum without having a negative effect on P. ostreatus mycelia. It produced diffusible and volatile organic compounds. The B. amyloliquefaciens strain is a potential biocontrol candidate. This study provides a potential biocontrol agent for Trichoderma green mould. However, field studies of this isolate in oyster mushroom are required to establish its actual performance.
Cohesion and Coherence in High School Students’ Written Work in Chuka Division, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2016) Peter, C. A.
This paper reports the adherence to cohesion and coherence as an aspect of textuality in high school students’ written work. The study investigated the students’ written texts to establish the extent to which they conformed to cohesion and coherence as a requirement to be fulfilled for a written text to be considered as communicative. Coherence is a network of relations, which organizes and creates a text. This network is of surface relations, which link words and expressions to other words and expressions in a text. This aspect is achieved when many different factors are brought together to make every paragraph, sentence, and phrase give meaning to a text. Communication is paramount in any written text. For dissemination of information to take place, the meaning of the writer must be clear and complete. Coherence is a channel through which this objective can be achieved. Coherence in writing is much more difficult to sustain than coherent speech. This is because when one is writing, there is no room for paralinguistic features to enhance message clarity. Therefore, patterns of coherence should be explicit and carefully planned. Cohesion on the other hand refers to the ways in which texts and sentences are linked or connected by various linguistic and semantic ties. Use of cohesion in writing ensures that the elements in a sentence fit perfectly together to form a united and complete communication instance. It is a semantic concept that is achieved when the understanding of a section in the text is reliant on that of another. The study further examined the structure of the students’ written texts to find out whether they applied these two aspects as they indulged in writing exercises. Experimental research design was used. Thus there was an experimental and a control group. These two were subjected to pre-test and post-test. The experimental class was exposed to the aspects of cohesion and coherence and thereafter the two groups did a post-test. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. It established the effects that the use of these two aspects had on the performance of the students in writing.
Credit Information Sharing Influence On Loan Default in Deposit Taking Saccos in Meru County
(Chuka University, 2016) Maina, J. N.; Kinyariro, D. K.; Lalampaa, T. J.
The study assessed influence of credit information sharing on loan default in deposit taking SACCOS in Meru County. It was guided by the influence of credit report and credit scoring on loan default. SACCOS in Kenya experience high level of loan default. This trend threatens the ability and sustainability of SACCOS and hinders achievement of goals. Since provision of credit facilities is the core function of every SACCO, success largely depends on profiling borrowers through the information availed. The study adopted a descriptive research design and the population consisted of 57 credit officers of SACCOS in Meru County. Questionnaire was used to collect data. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used in data analysis. There existed a significant relationship between credit report credit scoring and loan default in SACCOS. Thus credit information sharing significantly influenced loan default in SACCOS in Meru County. Regulations of SACCOS in sharing information on non-performing loans to aid in risk mitigation should be operationalised. Credit information sharing should be extended to all other SACCOS, including the non-deposit taking ones, to increase data for borrowers’ profiling.
Critical Analysis On How Learner-Related Factors Affect Application of Progressivists’ Learner-Centered Approaches in Teaching and Learning of Mathematics: A Case of Meru South Sub-County, Tharaka-Nithi County.
(Chuka University, 2016) Mwangi, S.N.; Mwanzia, R.M.
Learning mathematics using learner-centered teaching approach enhances creativity and problem-solving skills. Learning mathematics using teacher-centered approaches have i dire consequences such as poor performance, socialization, lack of creativity and problem-solving skills. This study critically analyzed how learner-related factors affect application of progressivists’ learner-centered approaches in teaching and learning of mathematics. It employed descriptive survey research design, targeting 5,547 subjects, consisting of 5,160 pupils and 387 teachers from 129 public primary schools. A sample size of 378 was obtained using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Learner-related factors such as motivation, attitude, beliefs and myths made pupils participate passively in learning. Pupils’ negative attitude towards mathematics was a major hindrance to progressivist approaches. The findings provide a reference for teachers, curriculum developers and policy makers in education on learner-centered approaches to enhance teaching of Mathematics.
CULTIVATION OF INDIGENOUS MUSHROOMS USING AGRICULTURAL SUBSTRATES
(Chuka University, 2016-10-28) Njeru, P.W., Wagara, I.N., Kariuki, S.T. & Muchiri, S.N.
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus species) have the ability to grow on a variety of agricultural and industrial wastes. The aim of this study was to domesticate indigenous oyster mushrooms that grow in the wild. Different agricultural substrates including straws of wheat, barley and beans, rice husks, maize cobs and sawdust were tested individually and in mixtures for indigenous oyster mushroom yield. Bean straw + maize cob gave the highest biological efficiency (BE) of 81.8% while bean straw alone gave BE of 81.6%. Sawdust had the lowest BE of 12.9% but a combination of bean straw and sawdust had a BE of 62.3%. Indigenous mushroom can be domesticated to increase food security and curb poverty.
Cybersecurity Laws and Digital Transformation: A Survey of the State-of-the-Art
(Chuka University, 2016) Mohamed, H. Abdi.
The objective of this paper is to review the existing literature on Cybersecurity Laws and highlight the major challenges in development and application of the necessary instruments of legislation and how this is impacting on digital transformation and development. The global nature of cybercrime has necessitated an urgent drive towards the enactment and harmonization of Cybersecurity laws if digital transformation and development is to be realized. While that is a noble idea, the sluggish pace at which the legislations are being enacted may render them outdated or inapplicable to the current threats that are abound in the security landscape. This has far reaching implications and consequences to digital transformation and development. The paper is based on a literature review of existing published research on cybersecurity, cybercrime, cybersecurity laws and digital transformation. A survey of existing literature was conducted whose findings are presented. The review has shown that cybercrime is a global problem without geographical borders while enacted legislations are not keeping pace with the changing technology landscape and are not harmonized. Cybercrime statistics are inaccurate as many cases go undetected or unreported. It is costly to develop and maintain security and other preventive measures. While efforts have been made towards digitization and development, African continent lacks the human resource capacity and the technology infrastructure necessary to detect, prosecute and convict the perpetrators of cybercrimes. The study findings are intended to assist business managers to effectively understand Cybersecurity and cybercrime in order to review the related Laws, policies and procedures in tandem with national and international standards and conventions. Digital transformation is first and foremost a business transformation; it is not just about technology. Cybersecurity legislation is an essential ingredient to digital transformation. Africa and indeed the world has to heavily invest in Cybersecurity awareness and skills development training, conduct focused research in cyber threat, and develop common cybersecurity frameworks.
Determinants of use of Kenya agricultural commodity exchange ict: the case of smallholder farmers in Bungoma county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2015-10-28) Wawire, A.W., Okello, J. and Wangia, S.M.
Smallholder farmers’ access to markets has traditionally been constrained by lack of market information. Efforts to strengthen access of farmers to markets has triggered the mushrooming of a number of projects that embrace ICT tools in promoting access to competitive market information. Nevertheless, most farmers still lack access to accurate market information such as commodity prices. This study examines the determinants of the use of ICT tools by Kenya Agricultural Commodity Exchange (KACE) among smallholder farmers for agricultural transactions. The data used for this study were collected in 2011 from smallholder farmers in Bungoma South and Central Sub-Counties. The two Sub-Counties were purposively selected because of being the hub of KACE activities. Multi-stage sampling was used to select 136 households for interview using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Farmer characteristics, farm and capital endowment factors affected use of ICT tools, particularly mobile phones. Occupation, farming experience, age, literacy and crop income explained use of tools. Household size, crop income, gender, level of literacy, owning a mobile phone, nearness to output market, level of literacy and crop income explained intensity of use of the mobile phones. The paper further discusses the policy implications of the findings. Keywords: ICT, market, Mobile phones, Agriculture, Market access
Distribution and Diversity of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Selected Agro-Industrial Pollution in Njoro River, Nakuru, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2016) Itotia, T.K.; Muia, A.W.; Kiruki, S.; Getenga, Z.M.
Many in-stream activities occur in River Njoro. Consequently, many pharmaceuticals used in farms and hospitals and antibiotic-resistant microbes end up in the River through runoff and sewage. Presence of antibiotic resistance exposes humans and animals to contamination during in-stream activities. This study determined bacteria resistant to both medical and veterinary antibiotics in the catchment. Residual antibiotics and physical chemical conditions and indicators of feacal pollution were investigated. The bacteria resistant to five antibiotics studied varied significantly (P<0.05). Turkana site had highest resistors to ampicillin, tetracycline and streptomycin, while Njoro Canning Factory had highest resistors to gentamycin and Chloramphenical. Indicators of faecal pollution were found in all sites including Sigotik with 413.33±15.28 E.coli per 100 ml of water. Physical chemical measurements showed site differences. The Njoro Canning Factory BOD was 6.99±0.20 mg L-1, whereas Sigotik BOD was 1.28±0.13 mg L-1. Presumptive positive Salmonella, V. cholera and V. parahaemolyticus species were found in Turkana and Ngata sites. There is cause for alarm due to the high numbers of antibiotic resistant bacteria in River Njoro. Proper treatment of the River water before use is recommended, or alternative safe water sources for these communities should be found.
Domestication of Indigenous Wild mushrooms in Kenya
(Chuka University, 2016) Kariuki, S.T., Wagara, I.N., Karwitha, M.C., Amwoga, P.A. & Muchiri, S.N.
Wild mushrooms have been consumed by communities in Kenya for decades, although they are not popular. Mushrooms are nutritious with proteins, essential minerals, vitamins and some are medicinal. This study characterized and cultivated edible wild indigenous mushrooms in Kakamega, Nakuru, Nyandarua, and Nyeri Counties to help solve food insecurity common in Kenya. Simple and readily available crop residues were used as substrates. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data. Mushrooms were collected, morphologically characterised, cultured and cultivated in a botanic garden. Small inocula were cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar at 25oC for 7 days. Different sugars including glucose, sucrose and water as control were tested as substrates for liquid culture. Sterile wheat grains, crushed maize cobs, rice husks, shred maize and bean straw were used for spawn production. Three categories of mushrooms identified were wood decomposers (Termitomycetes) and farm residue decomposers (Pleurotus spp.). Communities in Kakamega and Nyeri ranked first and last, respectively, in knowledge of indigenous mushrooms. Glucose had highest growth, while bean straw had the highest mycelia colonization. There are edible indigenous mushrooms which can be domesticated. Smallholders should be trained on wild indigenous mushrooms cultivation as a means of improving food security.
Dynamics of Spatial Interaction and Socio-Economic Transformations around Chuka University Main Campus Based on Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques
(Chuka University, 2016) Kibetu, D.K.; Mwangi, J.M.; Njue, N.P.
Universities are physical entities exemplifying complex human-land interaction and diverse processes. Their expansion into towns and rural areas drives urbanization, social transformations and economic development. However, with widespread human activities, surrounding ecological conditions change. The present study analyzed the implications of the changing landscape and land use/land cover around Chuka University from 2003 to 2013. Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) change was identified as a key factor driving transformations. The study used GIS and remote sensing to evaluate the dynamics of interactions which have produced the present and historical scenarios. Remote sensing provided multi-temporal data on the patterns and processes of human activities, while GIS mapped and analyzed LULC changes. Results revealed increasing growth of built-up areas, decreasing land under vegetation cover, open spaces and increase in peri-urban agriculture. Ndagani is an upcoming peri-urban center, undergoing rapid growth and expansion through physical factors, demographic changes, land subdivision and sale, accessibility and proximity to motorized roads. The rate of socio-economic transformation taking place in this area could be assessed more effectively if Public Participatory GIS (PPGIS) and biophysical factors were integrated to enhance holistic understanding and decision making for monitoring current changes and forecasting future sustainable development, information exchange and spatial interactions.

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