Family Determinants of Career Awareness among Students in Public Secondary Schools in Meru South Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

The aim of this study was to investigate the family determinants of career awareness among students in public secondary schools in Meru South Sub County. Career awareness is a sign of one's level of democracy and personal freedom in determining their professional development. Career awareness equips learners with a holistic understanding of their talents, personality, interest and capability in preparation for their future endeavours.  Uncertainty drive students towards making wrong career choices and as result feel frustrated at a job they had never wished for. Despite the schools having career teachers and Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) providing career guidance, students portray unawareness on occupation matters. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. A sample size of 368 respondents comprising of 12 deans of studies, 12 guidance and counselling teachers,12 form three and 12 form four parents’ representatives, 8 principals and 312 form three and four students participated in the study. The study established that family determinants had an influence on the students’ career awareness, especially on the career information. The socioeconomic status of the parents, career path of the family, parental career advice and elder siblings were found to have a great influence on career awareness. However, parent’s level of education was of low significance on career awareness. Parents and guardians should be sensitized on the importance of career awareness to their children. KEY WORDS: Career, Career Awareness, Family Determinants, Attitude, Parental Factors, Structural Functionalism DOI: 10.7176/JEP/14-33-05 Publication date: November 30th 202

Mapping Nairobi's dairy food system: An essential analysis for policy, industry and research

Demand for dairy products in sub-Saharan Africa, is expected to triple by 2050, while limited increase in supply is predicted. This poses significant food security risk to low income households. Understanding how the dairy food system operates is essential to identify mitigation measures to food insecurity impact. This study aims to determine the structure and functionality of Nairobi's dairy system using a value chain mapping approach

Evolution and structural analysis of Glossina morsitans (Diptera; Glossinidae) Tetraspanins

Tetraspanins are important conserved integral membrane proteins expressed in many organisms. Although there is limited knowledge about the full repertoire, evolution and structural characteristics of individual members in various organisms, data obtained so far show that tetraspanins play major roles in membrane biology, visual processing, memory, olfactory signal processing, and mechanosensory antennal inputs. Thus, these proteins are potential targets for control of insect pests. Here, we report that the genome of the tsetse fly, Glossina morsitans (Diptera: Glossinidae) encodes at least seventeen tetraspanins (GmTsps), all containing the signature features found in the tetraspanin superfamily members. Whereas six of the GmTsps have been previously reported, eleven could be classified as novel because their amino acid sequences do not map to characterized tetraspanins in the available protein data bases. We present a model of the GmTsps by using GmTsp42Ed, whose presence and expression has been recently detected by transcriptomics and proteomics analyses of G. morsitans. Phylogenetically, the identified GmTsps segregate into three major clusters. Structurally, the GmTsps are largely similar to vertebrate tetraspanins. In view of the exploitation of tetraspanins by organisms for survival, these proteins could be targeted using specific antibodies, recombinant large extracellular loop (LEL) domains, small-molecule mimetics and siRNAs as potential novel and efficacious putative targets to combat African trypanosomiasis by killing the tsetse fly vector

Challenges facing non-financial firms in hedging financial risks using derivatives

ABSTRACT With the advancement in technology and accompanying information age and globalization, firms are increasingly exposed to financial risks, posing a threat to their financial performance even leading ultimate collapse. Nonetheless, innovation has led to innovative ways of hedging against financial risks through derivatives. However, financial risk hedging and derivative use in Kenya has remained low in Kenya coupled with lack of studies and dearth of knowledge on the possible reasons for limited use of derivatives, this study is warranted. The study looks at financial risk exposures facing financial firms, their hedging practices and challenges facing derivative use. The descriptive study was conducted on the 39 nonfinancial firms listed at the NSE. The firms' heads of finance or risk management department were the targeted respondents to whom semi structured questionnaires were sent. The study used descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviations to analyze and summarize the results. The findings and concluded that nonfinancial firms do not use derivatives owing to managerial skepticism, limited derivative market microstructure, and knowledge on derivative use and accounting. The study recommends that education programs on derivative and their use should be rolled to firm's managers and firms to develop hedging policies that act as blueprint in hedging financial risks

Urban Livestock Keeping in the City of Nairobi: Diversity of Production Systems, Supply Chains, and Their Disease Management and Risks

Urban livestock keeping in developing cities have an important role in food security and livelihoods but can also pose a significant threat to the environment and health of urban dwellers. The aim of this study was to identify the different livestock systems in Nairobi, their supply chains, and their management and food safety risks. Seven focus group discussions with livestock production officers in charge of each major Nairobi sub-county were conducted. Data were collected on the type of systems existing for each livestock species and their supply chains, disease management, food safety risks, and general husbandry and gender factors. Supply chain flow diagrams and thematic analysis of the data was done. Results of the study show a large variability of livestock keeping in Nairobi. The majority were small scale with: <5 dairy cows, 1-6 dairy goats, <10 small ruminants, <20 pigs, 200-500 broilers, 300-500 layers, <10 indigenous chickens, or <20 rabbits. Beef keeping was mainly described as a "by the way" system or done by traders to fatten animals for 3 month. Supply chain analysis indicated that most dairy farmers sold milk directly to consumers due to "lack of trust" of these in traders. Broiler and pig farmers sold mainly to traders but are dependent on few large dominating companies for their replacement or distribution of products. Selling directly to retailers or consumers (including own consumption), with backyard slaughtering, were important chains for small-scale pig, sheep and goat, and indigenous chicken keepers. Important disease risk practices identified were associated with consumption of dead and sick animals, with underground network of brokers operating for ruminant products. Qualified trained health managers were used mainly by dairy farmers, and large commercial poultry and pig farmers, while use of unqualified health managers or no treatment were common in small-scale farming. Control of urban livestock keepers was reported difficult due to their "feeling of being outlaws," "lack of trust" in government, "inaccessibility" in informal settlements, "lack of government funding," or "understaffing." Findings are useful for designing policies to help to control urban livestock production and minimize its associated health and environment risks

Detection of circulating Antigens for Taenia spp. in pigs slaughtered for consumption in Nairobi and surroundings, Kenya

Taenia solium a zoonotic tapeworm, responsible for neurocysticercosis in humans is a major public health threat, being a leading cause of acquired epilepsy in endemic regions. Eastern and southern African nations have experienced a recent rapid growth in pig production, including small-scale, free-range systems, with an accompanying increased risk of T. solium transmission. Seven hundred blood samples were collected from randomly selected pigs presented for slaughter at one of the largest porcine abattoir supplying unprocessed pork to Nairobi city and its surroundings. The samples were tested using an antigen ELISA to determine the prevalence of infection with Taenia spp

In vivo antimalarial and acute toxicity properties of hexane and chloroform extracts from Clausena anisata (Willd.) Benth.

Malaria is a disease caused byPlasmodium  parasites and, though preventable and curable, is still one of the greatest global public health problems especially in sub- Saharan Africa. This can be partly attributed to the malaria in endemic areas. Unfortunately, recent reports indicate a decline in efficacy of artemisinin derivatives along Thai-Cambodia border, a site historically known for the recurrent emergence of drug resistant malaria parasites (Dondorp et al, 2009; Noedl et al, 2008). New classes of antimalarial agents are therefore urgently needed given that drug resistance is likely to eventually compromise the efficacy of currently available antimalarial drugs; identification of lead antimalarial agents from medicinal plants could boost the search.Clausena anisatain vivo  antimalarial activity and acute toxicity of C. anisata  extracts were investigated. The plant was selected as it has been traditionally used to treat malaria (Kokwaro, 2009; Beentje, 1994). (Willd.) Benth is a deciduous shrub/tree whose leaves are aromatic. In Kenya, it is known locally as Mjarikali (Swahili) and Mutathi (Kikuyu). Traditionally, soup boiled with the roots of the plant was given to women after birth to cleanse the uterus. This soup is also highly recommended for headache, malaria, influenza and indigestion. Twigs are used as toothbrushes and are believed to cure toothache. Decoctions of the root are also drunk to treat syphilis (Kokwaro, 2009; Beentje, 1994; Gachathi, 1989).Pharmacological activities associated with extracts from this plant include antifungal and antibacterial activity (Senthilkumar and Venkatesalu, 2009; Hamza et al, 2006; Gundidza et al, 1994), antidiabetic activity (Ojewole, 2002), anticonvulsant activity (Makanju, 1983) angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity (Duncan et al, 1999) and antiviral activity (Ayisi and Nyadedzor, 2003). Phytochemical investigations indicate carbazole alkaloids as the major component of this plant (Ito et al, 2000; Ito et al, 2009).Coumarins and limonoids have also been isolated (Ngadjui et al, 1991; Ngadjui et al, 1989; Lakshmia et al, 1984). Pharmacological activities associated with carbazole alkaloids include antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral activities (Ito et al, 2009; Ito et al, 2000; Chakraborty et al, 1995). Coumarins are reported to have anticoagulant properties (Emerole et al, 1981). Steam distillation of fresh leaves yielded sweet smelling, brownish-yellow oil whose major component is the acute toxin estragole (Okunade, 1987).As part of our continuing efforts to identify antimalarial agents from medicinal plants, in vivo  antimalarial activity and acute toxicity of C. anisata  extracts were investigated. The plant was selected as it has been traditionally used to treat malaria (Kokwaro, 2009; Beentje, 1994)

Genomic epidemiology of Escherichia coli:Antimicrobial resistance through a One Health lens in sympatric humans, livestock and peri-domestic wildlife in Nairobi, Kenya

BackgroundLivestock systems have been proposed as a reservoir for antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and AMR genetic determinants that may infect or colonise humans, yet quantitative evidence regarding their epidemiological role remains lacking. Here, we used a combination of genomics, epidemiology and ecology to investigate patterns of AMR gene carriage in Escherichia coli, regarded as a sentinel organism.MethodsWe conducted a structured epidemiological survey of 99 households across Nairobi, Kenya, and whole genome sequenced E. coli isolates from 311 human, 606 livestock and 399 wildlife faecal samples. We used statistical models to investigate the prevalence of AMR carriage and characterise AMR gene diversity and structure of AMR genes in different host populations across the city. We also investigated household-level risk factors for the exchange of AMR genes between sympatric humans and livestock.ResultsWe detected 56 unique acquired genes along with 13 point mutations present in variable proportions in human and animal isolates, known to confer resistance to nine antibiotic classes. We find that AMR gene community composition is not associated with host species, but AMR genes were frequently co-located, potentially enabling the acquisition and dispersal of multi-drug resistance in a single step. We find that whilst keeping livestock had no influence on human AMR gene carriage, the potential for AMR transmission across human-livestock interfaces is greatest when manure is poorly disposed of and in larger households.ConclusionsFindings of widespread carriage of AMR bacteria in human and animal populations, including in long-distance wildlife species, in community settings highlight the value of evidence-based surveillance to address antimicrobial resistance on a global scale. Our genomic analysis provided an in-depth understanding of AMR determinants at the interfaces of One Health sectors that will inform AMR prevention and control

The ratio of monocytes to lymphocytes in peripheral blood correlates with increased susceptibility to clinical malaria in Kenyan children.

BACKGROUND: Plasmodium falciparum malaria remains a major cause of illness and death in sub-Saharan Africa. Young children bear the brunt of the disease and though older children and adults suffer relatively fewer clinical attacks, they remain susceptible to asymptomatic P. falciparum infection. A better understanding of the host factors associated with immunity to clinical malaria and the ability to sustain asymptomatic P. falciparum infection will aid the development of improved strategies for disease prevention. METHODS AND FINDINGS: Here we investigate whether full differential blood counts can predict susceptibility to clinical malaria among Kenyan children sampled at five annual cross-sectional surveys. We find that the ratio of monocytes to lymphocytes, measured in peripheral blood at the time of survey, directly correlates with risk of clinical malaria during follow-up. This association is evident among children with asymptomatic P. falciparum infection at the time the cell counts are measured (Hazard ratio (HR)  =  2.7 (95% CI 1.42, 5.01, P  =  0.002) but not in those without detectable parasitaemia (HR  =  1.0 (95% CI 0.74, 1.42, P  =  0.9). CONCLUSIONS: We propose that the monocyte to lymphocyte ratio, which is easily derived from routine full differential blood counts, reflects an individual's capacity to mount an effective immune response to P. falciparum infection