1st International Research Conference Proceedings Chuka University, 2014

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Investigation into the state of disaster preparedness in schools in Kenya
(Chuka University, 2015) Lutomia, G. A.; Kisurulia, S.
Disasters of various kinds have been witnessed in learning institutions in Kenya for many years. Indeed, disasters disrupt the education process and undermine quality of education. This study investigated preparedness of learning institutions in fighting instances of fire outbreaks. It was based on a survey conducted in 12 Counties in Kenya and targeted all learners in primary and secondary schools, teachers, school administrators, Boards of Management/School Management Committees, Chiefs, Sponsors and education officials. Descriptive survey research design was used. The research instruments used in collecting data were questionnaires and interview guides. Piloting of the instruments was done and validated for reliability in three Counties selected randomly. The pilot Counties were not part of the main study. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Education is hampered in learning institutions because the personnel were not sufficiently prepared to handle disasters or emergency situations, as 61% of the respondents had not attended drill demonstrations on disaster management. Only 39% of the respondents had been exposed to demonstrations on disaster management. The study makes recommendations at both the policy and programmatic levels. It is expected that these findings will provide insightful reference that policy makers, education officials, school administrators, teachers and stakeholders can rely on in regard to disaster preparedness and management in learning institutions. Strategies to contain disasters are crucial in helping ensure quality education in schools.
Demystifying negativism of Cartha edulis (miraa) and focusing on its religious-socio-economic and educational significance: A case of Meru north region in Meru county, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2015) Bururia, D. N.; Nyaga, J. N.
For a long time, there have been conflicting stand points with regard to Cartha edulis (Miraa). Miraa is a substance that affects the psychological and physiological functioning of the human body, and therefore, falls under the category of drugs of abuse like alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana and heroin, among others. The National Campaign against Drug Abuse Authority and other scholars have confirmed this. The dilemma of many people, however, is that whereas there are numerous negativisms emanating from Cartha edulis farming, trade and consumption, there are also immense social, religious and economic benefits derived and associated with the same. This study addressed the impact of Miraa on religion-socio-economic and educational spheres of the society, especially in the growing areas of Meru North. It was motivated by conflicting incidences encountered by Miraa farmers and traders who also happen to be members of churches located within the study area and the alleged income purported to be derived from the trade used for social and economic developments. There are both positive and negative contributions brought about by Miraa farming and trade upon the families, schools and churches within Meru North region. Although the negatives outweigh the positives in terms of both short and long-term intangible damages to individuals, family and society, there are strong social, religious and economic attachments to Miraa. For the last few decades, Miraa has assumed political dimension. Exclusive focus on negativism has overshadowed the potential financial, social, educational and religious gains associated with the product, because apart from the economic contribution, Miraa is also alleged to have cultural, religious, as well as medicinal values. These contentions strongly agree that Miraa creates a contextual foundation for communication. However, the negative implications of Miraa and which greatly affect the individual user, the institution of marriage, school and church cannot be ignored. Thus, Miraa has diverse negative effects, but it could also serve a better purpose and value if handled properly since it has certain social-cultural values, especially among the community where is grown.
Improving technical education for human resource training for the realization of vision 2030: A case of technical training institutes.
(Chuka University, 2015) Muthaa, G. M.
The Kenyan Governments’ Vision 2030 seeks to make Kenya a middle level industrialized nation and improve the economic and social status of its citizens. The realization of this vision will be achieved with adequate human resource at the technology, technician and artisan levels. Technical Training Institutes are charged with the responsibility to train technicians and artisans. Concerns have been raised on the quality and quantity of the graduates coming out of these training institutions. The current study sought to investigate strategies that should be put in place to enhance the training in Technical Training Institutes. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. Heads of academic departments and students were used for the study. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used for data collection. The study established that training was conducted with inadequate teaching staff and obsolete equipment. The researcher recommends that adequate staff should be hired in training institutions and programmes put in place to upgrade the skills and knowledge of trainers in the light of changing technology. Training facilities in the training institutions should urgently be upgraded. Thus findings of this study will benefit all stakeholders on the critical needs of Technical Training Institutes toward the realization of the Vision 2030.
Dynamic mechanical analysis and thermal properties of bitumen-acacia sap composites
(Chuka University, 2015) Mbithi, N. M.
Bitumen binder mechanical and thermal properties have been unsatisfactory. Different synthetic binder modifies that have been used to improve its performance have led to environmental problems such as incineration and landfill. Acacia sap, a natural and environment-friendly polymer, has been used successfully as a modifier. Composites of bitumen-acacia sap with different composition of sap percentage ranging from 0% to 62.5% cell sap were prepared by injection drawing process. The composites were analyzed by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) for mechanical properties and Thermogravimetric Analysis for thermal properties. Storage modulus and Loss modulus of bitumen binder increased with acacia sap loading. Glass transition temperatures were found to shift to higher values as acacia sap loading increased. Activation energies were determined from the thermogravimetric data of the bitumen-acacia composites using the Broido model. Pure bitumen binder had the highest thermal stability. Modification of bitumen binder with 25% acacia sap loading gave optimum mechanical properties. Further studies should dwell more on understanding morphological properties of bituminous binding elements and using different kinds of natural polymers and different grades of bitumen obtained from different crudes.
Influence of household socioeconomic characteristics on the prevalence of acute respiratory infections among children in Nakuru town, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2015) Mugambi, M. M.
Prevalence of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) in children under 5 years has been attributed to exposure to polluted indoor air from biomass combustion. In Kenya, ARI accounted for 67% of outpatient morbidity cases in children under 5 years, while in Nakuru Town, it accounted for 41%. The cause has been attributed to indoor air pollution from biomass use. Clear studies have not been done in urban areas to show if indoor air pollution from energy sources is an influential factor. In urban areas, household socioeconomic characteristics such as education level, income level, number of household members, sources of energy and the indoor structural characteristics such as ventilation vary. This study determined the influence of energy sources and household socioeconomic characteristics on prevalence of ARI among children. An observation, cross-sectional survey was conducted on 187 randomly selected households, comprising low-income and middle-income strata. In low-income homes, education (p=0.028), presence of carpet (no carpet) (p=0.007), hours spent indoor (p=0.004) and outdoor (p=0.006) had a significant impact on ARI in children. In middle-income homes, neither energy sources nor indoor socioeconomic characteristics influenced ARI presence in children. Exposure to outdoor and indoor environment, education level of caretakers and lack of carpet in low-income areas in urban centers were influential factors on the prevalence of respiratory illnesses affecting children under 5 years.
Demystifying negativism of Cartha edulis (miraa) and focusing on its religious-socio-economic and educational significance: A case of Meru north region in Meru county, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2015) Bururia, D. N.; Nyaga, J. N.
For a long time, there have been conflicting stand points with regard to Cartha edulis (Miraa). Miraa is a substance that affects the psychological and physiological functioning of the human body, and therefore, falls under the category of drugs of abuse like alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana and heroin, among others. The National Campaign against Drug Abuse Authority and other scholars have confirmed this. The dilemma of many people, however, is that whereas there are numerous negativisms emanating from Cartha edulis farming, trade and consumption, there are also immense social, religious and economic benefits derived and associated with the same. This study addressed the impact of Miraa on religion-socio-economic and educational spheres of the society, especially in the growing areas of Meru North. It was motivated by conflicting incidences encountered by Miraa farmers and traders who also happen to be members of churches located within the study area and the alleged income purported to be derived from the trade used for social and economic developments. There are both positive and negative contributions brought about by Miraa farming and trade upon the families, schools and churches within Meru North region. Although the negatives outweigh the positives in terms of both short and long-term intangible damages to individuals, family and society, there are strong social, religious and economic attachments to Miraa. For the last few decades, Miraa has assumed political dimension. Exclusive focus on negativism has overshadowed the potential financial, social, educational and religious gains associated with the product, because apart from the economic contribution, Miraa is also alleged to have cultural, religious, as well as medicinal values. These contentions strongly agree that Miraa creates a contextual foundation for communication. However, the negative implications of Miraa and which greatly affect the individual user, the institution of marriage, school and church cannot be ignored. Thus, Miraa has diverse negative effects, but it could also serve a better purpose and value if handled properly since it has certain social-cultural values, especially among the community where is grown.
Assessment of the current sources for financing educational activities in youth polytechnics in Imenti south district in Kenya
(Chuka University, 2015) Cherui, R.; Kirimi, T.; Kitainge, K.
Despite the rationale for introduction of safety nets such as bursaries and constituency development fund in the education sector, there are increasing concerns over the limited finances in youth polytechnics to provide quality education and training. This is because, almost all educational institutions in Kenya face serious financial constraints due to failure by parents to pay fees promptly. The condition is made worse by introduction of structural adjustment programme and cost sharing policy in the 1980’s. This has given the youth polytechnics in Kenya a big blow because technical education is expensive due to tools and equipment required for education and training. The youth polytechnics are starved of funds and are operating on inadequate resources for both recurrent and capital expenditure. This study sought to assess the current sources of financing education in youth polytechnics in Imenti South District-Meru County. A descriptive survey design was adopted for a youth officer, 2 managers and 43 instructors in two youth polytechnics, giving a total of 46. Purposive sampling technique was employed and the sample size was 27 respondents, namely 1 youth officer, 2 managers and 24 instructors. Data collection used questionnaires, observations and interview schedules. The two main sources of finances for the youth polytechnics were parents and government subsidies. The income from Income Generating Activities and other sources came in third and fourth, respectively. The funds are insufficient for institutions recurrent and development expenditures. Thus the government should increase funding to the youth polytechnics, while youth polytechnics should venture into more Income generating activities to supplement the funding and also increase viability of their programmes.
Improving technical education for human resource training for the realization of vision 2030: A case of technical training institutes.
(Chuka University, 2015) Muthaa, G. M.
The Kenyan Governments’ Vision 2030 seeks to make Kenya a middle level industrialized nation and improve the economic and social status of its citizens. The realization of this vision will be achieved with adequate human resource at the technology, technician and artisan levels. Technical Training Institutes are charged with the responsibility to train technicians and artisans. Concerns have been raised on the quality and quantity of the graduates coming out of these training institutions. The current study sought to investigate strategies that should be put in place to enhance the training in Technical Training Institutes. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. Heads of academic departments and students were used for the study. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used for data collection. The study established that training was conducted with inadequate teaching staff and obsolete equipment. The researcher recommends that adequate staff should be hired in training institutions and programmes put in place to upgrade the skills and knowledge of trainers in the light of changing technology. Training facilities in the training institutions should urgently be upgraded. Thus findings of this study will benefit all stakeholders on the critical needs of Technical Training Institutes toward the realization of the Vision 2030.
Reduction of bacteria and other pollutants in sewage stabilization ponds.
(Chuka University, 2015) Aloo, B. N.; Mulei, J.; Mwamburi, L.; Ahoya, N.
Management of water resources is one of the biggest the problems facing developing countries today where sewage water treatment plants only serve the urban population. The rural areas and informal settings often lack mechanisms of sewage water treatment thereby posing potential harm to the environment. Different sewage water treatment options must therefore be developed to protect the environment. Sewage Stabilization Ponds (SSPs) are artificially constructed ponds that use biological treatment mechanisms to purify sewage water. They are simple to construct and maintain, have low capital investment and annual running costs, and also require less skilled personnel. This study evaluated performance of SSPs to determine whether they can efficiently treat sewage. It was conducted at the University of Eldoret sewage treatment plant which has 4 SSPs. Performance of these SSPs was achieved by determination of numbers of bacteria and levels of physicochemical pollutants in the sewage water at 5 different points (raw sewage influent, pond 1 effluent, pond 2 effluent, pond 3 effluent and pond 4 effluent) for10 months. Results indicated that levels of all physicochemical parameters, except pH, temperature and total suspended solids reduced significantly (p<0.05) from one station to the next and the least values were recorded for station 5. The numbers of bacteria, except for total bacteria counts, reduced significantly (p<0.05) from one station to the next and the least values were recorded in station 5. Thus, SSPs are effective in sewage water treatment and can be adopted in small communities to protect aquatic environments and alleviate contamination of drinking water sources.
Study of crude extracts of Ajuga remota benth (labiatae) as potential anti-malarial drug.
(Chuka University, 2015) Kariuki, J. M.; Kariuki, S. T.; Gitua, J. N.; Muchiri, D. R.
Malaria is among the killer diseases in the tropics and the parasite has been noted to develop resistance to many synthetic drugs. This study screened and tested the efficacy of crude extracts of different parts of Ajuga remota. Aqueous crude extracts of Ajuga remota which have been traditionally used to treat fevers and malaria, were used in vivo against Plasmodium berghei malaria infections in mice using the four-day suppressive test. Leaves, stems, roots and flowers either boiled wet in water immediately after collection or dried first before boiling in water were then injected intravenously through the tail vein of mice infected with Plasmodium berghei parasite. Chloroquine, a standard antimalarial drug, was used as a control. On day four, parasitized blood smears were made from tail strip for determination of parasitaemia and calculation of percentage suppression. The different preparation showed different suppressive activities against P. berghei parasites. The leaves showed the highest antimalarial activity compared to stems, roots and flowers for wet and dry parts, respectively. Thus, A. remota has potential antimalarial compounds which need further evaluation to determine their activity against human malaria parasites.
Phytochemical screening, macronutrients analysis and antimicrobial activity of water from mature coconut fruit grown in sandy and loam soils at coast of Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2015) Siranjofu, E. M.; Chimbevo, L. M.; Gicharu, G. K.; Kahindo, J. M.
Mature coconuts fruits were collected from two blocks in Kilifi and Kwale Counties at the Coast in Kenya. They were broke open and the water inside extracted using n-hexane, ethanol and ethyl acetate for 18 hours. For macronutrients analysis, plain (untreated) coconut water was used, n-hexane and ethanolic extracts for phytochemical screening and n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts for antimicrobial activity against bacteria (E. coli, S. aureus, P. aureginosa) and fungi (C. albicans) with tetracycline, gentamycin, streptomycin and fluconazole as the standards, respectively. The results of different extracts and soils were compared using student’s t-test at 95% confidence level. Coconut water had macro-nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils. Phytochemicals present included: flavonoids, tannins, phenols, alkaloids, glycosides and acidic compounds. The macro-nutrients and proximate composition of coconuts from palm growing in sand and loam soils were significantly different (p<0.05) with higher concentration found in coconuts from palm growing in sand soils. However, the macro-nutrients proximate composition of the different extracts from the same soil had no significant difference (p>0.05). The antimicrobial of different extracts from different soils had no significant difference (p>0.05). Thus, growth of coconut palms in sandy soils may be encouraged for better quality products from the coconut palms.
Morphological, genetic and symbiotic characterization of root nodule bacteria isolated from Bambara groundnuts in soils of Lake Victoria basin
(Chuka University, 2015) Onyango, B.; Anyango, B.; Nyunja, R. A.; Kimani, W. M.; Skilton, R.; Stomeo, F.
Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea L. Verdc) was used to trap root nodule bacteria in four soils obtained from farmers’ fields in Lake Victoria basin, western Kenya. Sixty-four isolates were obtained and morphological and genetic evaluation resulted in different groups whose distribution was strongly influenced by characteristics of the soil at the site of isolation. Morphologically, majority (70%) of the isolates grew fast and very fast on Yeast Manitol Extract Agar, 26% were intermediate, while 3% were slow growers. The fast, very fast and some intermediates showed positive acid reaction, while the rest showed positive reaction in alkaline conditions. The 16S rRNA gene sequences had above 97% similarities to diverse groups including Rhizobium sp., Bradyrhizobium sp., Burkholderia sp. and Agrobacterium sp. previously isolated from crop plants. Phylogenetic analysis of 18 representative sequences yielded 3 clades with Rhizobium and Agrobacterium type sequences belonging to a single clade, while Bradyrhizobium and Burkholderia type sequences clustering into separate clades. In glasshouse experiments, 7 isolates identified as Bradyrhizobium sp. and Burkholderia sp. produced above 20 effective nodules per plant and corresponding high total biomass values, with one Rhizobium sp. producing similar results. The rest of the isolates showed low levels of nodulation, most of which were ineffective. This study revealed a high diversity of rhizobium bacteria symbiotic to bambara groundnuts in the soils of L. Victoria basin, which should be utilized to enhance its productivity and to improve databases on indigenous rhizobia populations.
Long-term memory effect in stock prices: An empirical study from Nairobi stocks market.
(Chuka University, 2015) Mbae, D. M.; Mwaniki, I.
This study demonstrated that Nairobi stock market asset return do not behave as any type of white noise processes using the Lo and MacKinlay variance ratio test. This was done by considering the Nairobi All Share Index (NASI) and testing for long memory using Classical Rescaled range analysis, Detrended Fluctuation Analysis and the semi-parametric approach Geweke and Porter-Hudak tests. Data sets consisted of daily return index of NASI for a consecutive period of 8 years, i.e. from when the index was launched in 2008 to 2013 and long memory tests for the returns series. Al three tests suggested presence of long memory, while those of randomness test using variance ratio tests rejected the random walk hypothesis. The test for random walk model has a lot of implication in both theoretical as well empirical researches. Rejection of random walk model implies that the market is inefficient in processing information and one can predict future prices using past prices. Results show evidence of long memory in the Kenyan stock returns, which is inconsistent with weak-form market efficiency, implying that Kenyan stock index consists of impact of news and shocks in recent past. Speculative earnings could be gained via predicting stock prices. These findings will help investors, financial managers and regulators dealing with this market.
Determination of glass transition temperature and modulus of PLA films using dynamic mechanical analysis at 50oc and amplitude of 10
(Chuka University, 2015) Muthui, Z. W.; Nderitu, F. G.; Hussein, S. A. G.; Kamweru, P.K.; Ngumbu, R.
Polylactic acid (PLA) is an environment friendly biodegradable thermoplastic produced by microorganism synthesis through the fermentation of starch. It can be used in the manufacture of thermoplastic films used to produce packaging material in place of those produced from fossil fuels. It may reduce consumption of petroleum, which releases Carbon IV Oxide, a greenhouse emission, unburned carbon fragments and other compounds that give rise to smog and air pollution on burning. It is also compostable, aiding solid waste management. In this study, the mechanical properties of PLA were determined over a temperature and amplitude range to establish whether it can be used in production of packaging material for single use purposes and disposable items. The storage ( ) and loss ( ) moduli as well as the Loss Tangent ( ) and glass transition temperature (Tg) of PLA films were determined using the Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) model 2980, used in the Multistrain mode. At 50oC and amplitude of 10 the storage modulus of PLA was 2220.00 MPa, while loss modulus was 112.90 MPa. Consequently, elastic modulus of PLA was 2222.87 MPa, indicating that PLA is strong and tough at this temperature. From the peak of the loss modulus graph the Tg was 65oC. Tg from variation of loss tangent with temperature occurred at 74.3oC.
Determinants of rural electrification adoption and socio-economic benefits among households: A case of Meru-south sub-county, Kenya.
(Chuka University, 2015) Kageni, C.; Muiruri, P.; Obiero, K.
Electricity is a critical asset for both human well-being and country’s socio-economic development. However, low adoption and general lack of optimal utilization of electricity continue to undermine maximum socio-economic productivity in most Sub-Saharan African countries. The rural areas are the hardest hit through low economic development and empowerment. There is little information on socio-economic dynamics that preside over the low adoption and potentials of rural electricity in this region. This study evaluated determinants of electricity adoption and explored socio-economic potentials and benefits of electricity in Meru South Sub-County. Interviews were conducted among stakeholders from the energy sector and also 150 randomly selected households using closed and open ended questionnaires. Data analyses used SPSS Vr 19. Results showed that 36% households had electricity compared to 64% non-adopters. Predictor factors that influenced adoption were distance from transformers (p=0.000), education level (p=0.020), gender (p=0.045), household size (p=0.009), and income (p=0.011). Electricity benefits and potentials including improved quality of life through lighting (100%) and business opportunities (38.8%) were cited. Household characteristics influenced electricity adoption but utilization had not been geared towards income generating activities. There is need to continue and increase popularization of electricity potentials among households and communities, and to review existing policies on distribution via grid extension to accommodate household characteristics to increase adoption and optimal utilization.
Solid waste generation and composition in Egerton university community.
(Chuka University, 2015) Kariuki, J. M.; Moturi, W. N.; Shivoga, W. A.; Kilonzi, C. M.; Kinyanjui, D. N.
Solid waste management is a requirement for any community with management strategies and impacts environmental and human health. For it to succeed, data on waste generation and composition should be availed. This research established the amount and composition of solid waste generated in Egerton University and the surrounding community. It was a cross-sectional survey of 40 households drawn from students, tenants and farmers. Generation and composition was determined using principles outlined by Pfammatter and Schertenleib. Waste generated was generally low for all respondents. Per capita waste generation of 142.31 g for tenants, 70 g for students and 102 g for farmers was lower than the average daily per capita waste generated in low income groups in the urban areas of developing countries. Food waste was the largest component for tenants and students, making up 69% and 73% of total waste generated by weight, respectively. Sweepings (mostly soil) made the largest fraction of waste (93%) of the total waste for farmers. Thus, waste generation was influenced by income with respondents earning highest generating the most. Also, waste composition was characteristic of developing counties with food waste having higher percentage (65%) of all total waste.
Repellence of cattle anal odor constituents and selected analogues against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus
(Chuka University, 2015) Kariuki, M. W.; Ng’ang’a, M. M.; Hassanali, A.; Saini, R. K.
A study was conducted to determine repellence of anal odour constituents, blends and selected analogues against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus control. The odours were trapped, eluted and analyzed by gas chromatography-linked mass spectrometry. Constituents were identified by comparing their mass spectra with those in the National Institute of Standards and Technology libraries. Major constituents were o-xylene, 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone, 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol, ethyl benzene, 2,6,6-trimethyl-[1S(1α,β,5α)]bicycloheptanes, 5-ethoxydihydro-2(3H)-furanone, 3-methylene-2-pentanone, 5-methyl-2-phenyl-1H-indole, and 3-pentanone. Repellency of the odours, selected constituents and blends was evaluated using dual choice tick climbing assay. The 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol was most repellent (RD75 =0.56) and 3-pentanone least active (RD75 = 622.7). Two blends that were more repellent than the anal odour were: made up of 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol, 3-pentanone, 3-methyl-2-pentanone, and 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone, with RD75 of 0.032, and another without 3-pentanone, with RD75= 0.019; p≤0.05, SNK. Bioassays of analogues of 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol (4-Methylguaiacol) was done: guaiacol, eugenol, 3,4-methylenedioxytoluene and 2,4-dimethylphenol, where 3,4-Methylenedioxytoluene was inactive, while 2,4-dimethylphenol was most repellent (RD75= 0.0089) compared to all compounds and blends tested. The 2,4-dimethylphenol analogue of 4-methylguaiacol may represent a promising additional tool in the arsenal of techniques in East Coast Fever control.
Nutrient and anti-nutrient content of selected wild food plants from Ithanga division, Kenya
(Chuka University, 2015) Mugera, D. K.; Kinyuru, J. N.; Mwaniki. M. W.; Njoroge, G. N.
Wild food plants play an important role in the diet of inhabitants of Ithanga Division as famine foods during lean seasons. The area is ASAL, receives unreliable rainfall and frequent drought followed by food insecurity, malnutrition, especially in children less than 5-years-old. Locals use wild food plants to meet nutritional requirements. However, there is lack of data on nutrients in these plants. This study determined nutritional potential of selected wild food plants to enhance utilization and management of moderate malnutrition and food insecurity. Ten samples were collected through random sampling, washed, dried in oven at 60oC, ground into powder and analyzed for proximate composition, nutrient, mineral and tannin contents. Proximate composition varied with moisture content, ranging from 48.33-90.77%, with Cyperus rotundus having lower value of 48.33±0.54 and Oxygonium sinuatum highest value of 90.77% ± 0.54. The crude fibre content on dry weight basis was moderately low, ranging from 6.29-20.73 mg/100 g. The crude protein ranged from 1.68-11.6 mg/100 g, with highest in O. sinuatum and lowest in Lantana camara. Vitamin C and betacarotene were higher in CUumis dipsaceus (50.24±5.13) and Amaranthus dubius (5.24±1.89), while lower in Commelina africana (7.60±0.84) and Lantana camara (0.02±0.01) mg/100g, respectively. Zn content on dwb in Oxygonium sinuatum was 28.15mg/100g) and comparable with or higher than cultivated counterparts. Tannin content ranged from 3169-678mg/100g and was higher in Grewia bicolor and lower in C. dipsaceus, respectively. Thus, the wild food plants are good sources of nutrients and can be utilized to mitigate micro and macronutrient malnutrition to improve food security.
Computer ergonomic issues in learning institutions in Kenya: Case study of Kirinyaga county
(Chuka University, 2015) Shikhuyu, J.; Mwangi, E. G.
Learning institutions are emphasizing computer hardware and software, while neglecting computer hardware compliance with ergonomics. Since non-compliance to good ergonomic practices is not a onetime effect, users are not usually aware of the negative impact on their being until too late. The question of ergonomics is very sensitive during this era when the government is championing use of ICT in all learning institutions. The health-risks that come with non-compliance cannot be underestimated. This study investigated computer ergonomic issues and problems that face students when using computers as tools of learning in selected primary, secondary and university institutions in Kirinyaga County. Purposive sampling was used to select the institutions. Stratified sampling was used to pick the sample size. In each stratum, random sampling was adopted. Total sample size was 350. Closed ended questionnaire was constructed and self-administered to collect information about computer related ergonomic issues and habits of students. Data were analyzed and presented using SPSS V20. Most of the institutions don’t have ergonomic furniture. Laboratories and computer screens were poorly lit. Most institutions used older machines that produced noise and emitted a lot of heat. Laboratories were poorly ventilated and respondents were not aware of ergonomic practices and habits and the risks that come as a result of non-compliance. Learning institutions lack knowledge on the importance of computer ergonomics. Thus stakeholders need to intensify campaigns on computer ergonomics in learning institutions.
Development of interactive web portal for Kenyan tea.
(Chuka University, 2015) Ngige, W. J.; Kinyua, K. J.; Gitonye, W. C.; Kariuki, D.; Mwangi, J.
In Kenya the tea sector’s growth is dependent on tea production, marketing and research. For better performance of these key areas, information flow is critical. However, the information flow is still poor due to lack of an effective information delivery system. Although development of web sites and other cross platform tea information systems have made information sharing easier and faster than ever, their dynamic, unstructured nature and lack of necessary level of interaction limit their potential in the information delivery. The exponential growth of these resource platforms has also resulted to scattering of the information widely which makes it difficult for users to obtain the desired information efficiently. Marketing is also ineffective due to lack of an online marketing tool for the Kenyan tea, and with the increased global market competition posed by the major tea producers in the world including China, India and Sri Lanka, Kenya is faced with major threats in maintaining its tea market share. In this project an interactive web portal was developed as a resource platform for tea, that would bring together the tea information into an integrated “one-stop shop” for improved efficiency in information access and retrieval, and to provide a marketing platform for the Kenyan tea. The development process involved; designing of web portal architecture, development of the system components, system testing and hosting the program on World Wide Web. The following utilities with outstanding features were used to develop the portal; Joomla! 3.2, XAMPP, PHP5.3.1, MySQL 5.1.41, PhpMyAdmin, Adobe Dreamweaver CS6 and site extensions including; PixSearch, Joom!Fish, VirtueMart and JomSocial.The web portal was then evaluated in JKUAT based on organization of information, friendliness of the user interface and efficiency in information access and retrieval.

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