Browsing Journal Articles by Issue Date
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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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Kinuthia, Geoffrey K.; Lugalia, Reuben M.; Mwanyumba, Panuel J.; Ngeiywa, , Moses M.; Anjili, Christopher O.; Tonui, Willy K. (African Journal of Health Sciences, June , 2011)[more][less]
Abstract: A laboratory based study was designed to characterize 43 cryo-preserved Leishmania-like flagellates. These Leishmania-like flagellates were originally obtained from non-human hosts that included spiny mice (Acomys subspinosus), plated lizards (Gerrosaurus major) and sand flies of the Genus Sergentomyia caught at Masinga location, Machakos District in Kenya. Morphological features and isoenzyme banding patterns of the flagellates were studied. The isoenzyme markers which were used for isoenzyme electrophoresis included Malate dehydrogenase (MDH), Phosphoglucomutase (PGM), Glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI), Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), Malic enzyme (ME), 6 phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) and Mannose phosphate isomerase (MPI). The isoenzyme banding patterns of the flagellates’ lysates were compared with those of six WHO Leishmania reference strains and those of seven well characterized reference strains of Trypanosoma, Crithidia, Herpetomonas and Leptomonas species. The results showed that the morphological changes of the Leishmania-like flagellates in the growth medium were indistinguishable from those of Leishmania WHO reference strains used. The isoenzyme profiles of the flagellates were all distinguishable from the reference strains used except for isolate NLB-1236 from G. major which had an enzyme profile identical to that of L. tropica (NLB-305) in 6 enzymes (MDH, GPI, MPI, ME, PGM, and G6PD). The banding pattern of isolate NLB-1261 from A. subspinosus was indistinguishable from that of L. major (NLB-326) in 3 enzymes only (MDH, GPI and ME) while isolate NLB-1231 from A. subspinosus had an enzyme profile identical to those of L. tropica (NLB-305) and L. arabica (NLB-664) in six enzymes (MDH, GPI, ME, PGM, MPI, and 6PGD). More than 80% of the Leishmania-like flagellates had enzyme profiles indistinguishable from each other, in all the isoenzyme markers. The morphological traits of the flagellates suggested that they were Leishmania or strains closely related to Leishmania. Isoenzyme analysis suggested that Sergentomyia sand flies most likely feed on both lizards (reptiles) and rodents (mammals). There is need to carry further investigations on NLB-1236 (from plated lizards), NLB-1261 (from wild spiny mice) and NLB-1231 (from wild spiny mice). Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/4003 Files in this item: 1
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Ayiro, Laban Peter; Sang, James K. (Emotional Intelligence – New Perspectives and Applications, 2012)
[more][less]Abstract: The notion of quality is hard to define precisely, especially in the context of tertiary education where institutions have broad autonomy to decide on their own visions and missions. Any statement about quality implies a certain relative measure against a common standard; in tertiary education, such a common standard does not exist. Various concepts have evolved to suit different contexts ranging from quality as a measure for excellence to quality as perfection, quality as value for money, quality as customer satisfaction, quality as fitness for purpose, and quality as transformation (in a learner) (SAUVCA 2002). Some institutions have adopted the International Standards Office (ISO) approach in some of their activities. Depending on the definition selected, quality implies a relative measure of inputs, processes, outputs or learning outcomes. Institutions, funders, and the public need some method for obtaining assurance that the institution is keeping its promises to its stakeholders. This is the primary goal of quality assurance. The leadership of the quality assurance directorates in universities has therefore come into sharp focus. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2837 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) -
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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Ngure, Veronica; Sitati, Noah; Shisia, Silvanus; Kinuthia, Geoffrey (Journal of Natural Sciences Research, January , 2015)[more][less]
Abstract: Elevated levels of metals due to anthropogenic activities are a cause of environmental concern because of their effects on human health. Eldoret Municipality, in Kenya, is one of the fastest growing municipalities with both industrial and agricultural developments. The study aimed at determining the concentration of five elements namely zinc (Zn), lead (Pd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd) in five sample sites within the municipality and established the possible health risks in the residents. Measured concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cr, Cu and Cd in surface horizon soils were used to estimate the geochemical load indices and their spatial distribution. Four soil samples were collected monthly from each sample site on the same farms totaling 200 soil samples. The samples were dried, ground and sieved for metal digestion using varied acids in the laboratory and analysis was done against metal standards using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). Only Cd concentration (0.0286mg/kg) in all sites was above the recommended unpolluted soils. Epidemiological data were obtained from the residents and hospitals to establish associated health risks. Determination of metals’ combined effects using multivariate Principal Component Analysis showed that varying concentrations of Zn and Pb tended to increase incidences of cancer, hypertension and stroke. Metals Zn, Pb and Cu concentrations correlated with development of cardiovascular diseases. Awareness rising to residents of Eldoret Municipality on high Cd concentration in the soil and use of alternative forms of fertilizers and related chemicals with low Cd content is recommended. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3977 Files in this item: 1
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Kiarie, Martha; Nzau, Anastasia; Ngumbi, Philip; Waithima, Abraham; 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 W.; Mupfudze, T; Mbogori, T 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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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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Cheruiyot, Peter Kimutai; Cheruiyot, Jane Kositany; Yegon, Charles Kiprotich (Licensed under Creative Common, May 5, 2016)[more][less]
Abstract: The study examined the operations and impact of rotating savings and credit organizations on the lives of middle income earners. Therefore, its contents covered introduction that dealt with trends research provides literature currently available on organisations and it assesses the impact of the organizations by analyzing how the members use their funds to enable them acquire financial assets, physical assets, human assets and social assets. Data from 57 groups located in Savannah Ward of Embakasi indicates that ROSCAs operations vary from group to group depending on the agreements by the members. The study indicates that ROSCAs had an impact in lives of middle income earners and it had enabled them acquire financial assets, physical assets, human assets and social assets. In addition the research also showed that the organizations also had an impact on money management since members also used the funds to meet current expenditure. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3986 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
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Murimi, Mary W.; Kanyi, M; Mupfudze, T; Mbogori, T; Amin, M (Journal of Education Nutrition and Behavior, July 3, 2016)
[more][less]Abstract: 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. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2961 Files in this item: 1
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Murimi, Mary W.; Kanyi, M; Mupfudze, T; Amin, M; Mbogori, T; Aldubayan, K (Journal of Education Nutrition and Behavior, September 3, 2016)
[more][less]Abstract: To examine systematically factors that contribute to the efficacy of nutrition education interventions in promoting behavior change for good health based on their stated objective. In a departure from previous reviews, the researchers investigated factors that lead to success of various types of interventions. Critical analysis of these factors constituted the outcome of this review. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2960 Files in this item: 1
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Jethro, S Johnson; Opiyo, Monica N; Thomson, Marian; Karim, Gharbi; Andreas, Heger; Chapman, Karen E (The Journal of Endocrinology, December , 2016)
[more][less]Abstract: The enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) interconverts active glucocorticoids and their intrinsically inert 11-keto forms. The type 1 isozyme, 11β-HSD1, predominantly reactivates glucocorticoids in vivo and can also metabolise bile acids. 11β-HSD1-deficient mice show altered inflammatory responses and are protected against the adverse metabolic effects of a high-fat diet. However, the impact of 11β-HSD1 on the composition of the gut microbiome has not previously been investigated. We used high-throughput 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing to characterise the gut microbiome of 11β-HSD1-deficient and C57Bl/6 control mice, fed either a standard chow diet or a cholesterol- and fat-enriched ‘Western’ diet. 11β-HSD1 deficiency significantly altered the composition of the gut microbiome, and did so in a diet-specific manner. On a Western diet, 11β-HSD1 deficiency increased the relative abundance of the family Bacteroidaceae, and on a chow diet, it altered relative abundance of the family Prevotellaceae. Our results demonstrate that (i) genetic effects on host–microbiome interactions can depend upon diet and (ii) that alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome may contribute to the aspects of the metabolic and/or inflammatory phenotype observed with 11β-HSD1 deficiency. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2965 Files in this item: 1
11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-1.pdf (1.269Mb) -
Murimi, Mary W. (Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, December 9, 2016)
[more][less]Abstract: Volunteerism in America could be considered a national pastime with nearly 1 in 4 Americans, an estimated 62.6 million people, serving as volunteers according to the National and Community Service report.1 Volunteerism includes a wide range of activities undertaken to serve others or contribute to a cause of common good for the general public where monetary reward is not the driving factor, according to the general assembly of the United Nations.2 The Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) as an organization would never achieve its stated goals without the many hours and skills provided by its member volunteers. URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/2845 Files in this item: 1
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Ngure, Peter; Nzau, Anastasia; Kiarie, Martha; Waithima, Abraham; 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) -
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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Johnson, Jethro S; Opiyo, Monica N; Thomson, Marian; Gharbi, Karim; Seckl, Jonathan R; Heger, Andreas; Chapman, Karen E (Journal of Endocrinology, 2017)[more][less]
Abstract: The enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) interconverts active glucocorticoids and their intrinsically inert 11-keto forms. The type 1 isozyme, 11β-HSD1, predominantly reactivates glucocorticoids in vivo and can also metabolise bile acids. 11β-HSD1-deficient mice show altered inflammatory responses and are protected against the adverse metabolic effects of a high-fat diet. However, the impact of 11β-HSD1 on the composition of the gut microbiome has not previously been investigated. We used high-throughput 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing to characterise the gut microbiome of 11β-HSD1-deficient and C57Bl/6 control mice, fed either a standard chow diet or a cholesterol- and fat-enriched ‘Western’ diet. 11β-HSD1 deficiency significantly altered the composition of the gut microbiome, and did so in a diet-specific manner. On a Western diet, 11β-HSD1 deficiency increased the relative abundance of the family Bacteroidaceae, and on a chow diet, it altered relative abundance of the family Prevotellaceae. Our results demonstrate that (i) genetic effects on host–microbiome interactions can depend upon diet and (ii) that alterations in the composition of the gut microbiome may contribute to the aspects of the metabolic and/or inflammatory phenotype observed with 11β-HSD1 deficiency. Description: Journal Article URI: http://repository.daystar.ac.ke/xmlui/handle/123456789/3978 Files in this item: 1
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Ngure, Geoffrey K.K; 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)
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