School of Pure and Applied Sciences

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February 23, 2021
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In the area of Pure and Applied Sciences the research at the Lukenya University focuses on areas such as:

Health, Medicare and development
Library, transport, information, communication, record management and media
Engineering, science and technology
Universal Healthcare
Covid-19 pandemic status: challenges and opportunities

2020

Wafula, Judith Adikinyi; Kivyatu, Bernard; Muvelah, Sammy

Comparative Analysis of the Composition of Ocimum kilimandscharicum (Mutaa) and Ocimum gratissimum (Mukandu) from Makueni County, Kenya Journal Article

Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ), 1 (4), pp. 257-265, 2020, ISSN: 2663-3163.

Abstract | Download Paper(s) | BibTeX

@article{V.257-265.2663-3163,
title = {Comparative Analysis of the Composition of Ocimum kilimandscharicum (Mutaa) and Ocimum gratissimum (Mukandu) from Makueni County, Kenya },
author = {Judith Adikinyi Wafula and Bernard Kivyatu and Sammy Muvelah},
url = {https://research.lukenyauniversity.ac.ke/257-265-health-science-and-technology-wafula-j-et-al-2020/},
issn = {2663-3163},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-12-31},
journal = {Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ)},
volume = {1},
number = {4},
pages = {257-265},
abstract = {A comparative analysis of the composition of two species of Ocimum found in Makueni County, Kenya was undertaken. These were Ocimum kilimandscharicum (Mutaa) and Ocimum gratissimum (Mukandu). They are locally known by the names, Mutaa and Mukandu respectively. The Ocimum kilimandscharicum and Ocimum gratissimum were analysed qualitatively for the presence of minerals and phytochemicals. The phytochemicals analysed include reducing sugars, proteins, alkaloids, tannins, flavanoids, terpenoids and anthraquinones. The possible health benefits of the Ocimum species from Kenya were determined in view of the composition.

Addition of a drop of aqueous sodium hydroxide and ammonium hydroxide till in excess, to test for minerals present showed no precipitate. The Fehlings’ test for reducing sugars using 1ml Fehling’s solution No.1 added to 0.5ml of extract gave a green solution with a brown precipitate at the bottom. The precipitate was more for O. gratissimum than O. kilimansdcharicum. The biuret test for proteins was negative. A Wagner test (dilute iodine) for alkaloids gave a red-brown precipitate. Tannins/phenols were analysed using Ferric chloride. A dark green-black precipitate was formed. An orange solution was formed in the flavanoid test using Magnesium metal and dilute hydrochloric acid. Salkowski test for terpenoids using 2ml chloroform with 3ml concentrated sulphuric acid was done. Red –brown upper layer and lower layer with a colourless interface between was observed in O. kilimandscharicum. Similar observations were made in O. gratissimum with a pink lower layer and a red-brown top layer. The test for anthraquinones gave a brick-red layer at the bottom of the test tube with a black ring at the top. The brick red layer was slightly darker for sample B (Mukandu) compared to sample A (Mutaa).

In conclusion, the findings suggest the absence of proteins in both species of Ocimum. They point to the presence of calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium and sodium minerals as confirmed by the flame test. Further, both species of Ocimum studied contain reducing sugars, alkaloids, tannins, flavanoids, terpenoids and anthraquinones. Variation in quantities of phytochemicals and minerals is suggested by the differences in colour intensities. In view of the findings Ocimum species in Kenya present great opportunities in the health sector that need to be explored. The phytochemical and minerals play significant roles in fighting microbes and ensuring a healthy body. A quantitative determination of the phytochemicals and minerals is required using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Atomic Emission Spectrometry (AES) or Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) to determine the difference in the quantities between the two species. Further, isolation of active ingredients remains a great need.
},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}

A comparative analysis of the composition of two species of Ocimum found in Makueni County, Kenya was undertaken. These were Ocimum kilimandscharicum (Mutaa) and Ocimum gratissimum (Mukandu). They are locally known by the names, Mutaa and Mukandu respectively. The Ocimum kilimandscharicum and Ocimum gratissimum were analysed qualitatively for the presence of minerals and phytochemicals. The phytochemicals analysed include reducing sugars, proteins, alkaloids, tannins, flavanoids, terpenoids and anthraquinones. The possible health benefits of the Ocimum species from Kenya were determined in view of the composition.

Addition of a drop of aqueous sodium hydroxide and ammonium hydroxide till in excess, to test for minerals present showed no precipitate. The Fehlings’ test for reducing sugars using 1ml Fehling’s solution No.1 added to 0.5ml of extract gave a green solution with a brown precipitate at the bottom. The precipitate was more for O. gratissimum than O. kilimansdcharicum. The biuret test for proteins was negative. A Wagner test (dilute iodine) for alkaloids gave a red-brown precipitate. Tannins/phenols were analysed using Ferric chloride. A dark green-black precipitate was formed. An orange solution was formed in the flavanoid test using Magnesium metal and dilute hydrochloric acid. Salkowski test for terpenoids using 2ml chloroform with 3ml concentrated sulphuric acid was done. Red –brown upper layer and lower layer with a colourless interface between was observed in O. kilimandscharicum. Similar observations were made in O. gratissimum with a pink lower layer and a red-brown top layer. The test for anthraquinones gave a brick-red layer at the bottom of the test tube with a black ring at the top. The brick red layer was slightly darker for sample B (Mukandu) compared to sample A (Mutaa).

In conclusion, the findings suggest the absence of proteins in both species of Ocimum. They point to the presence of calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium and sodium minerals as confirmed by the flame test. Further, both species of Ocimum studied contain reducing sugars, alkaloids, tannins, flavanoids, terpenoids and anthraquinones. Variation in quantities of phytochemicals and minerals is suggested by the differences in colour intensities. In view of the findings Ocimum species in Kenya present great opportunities in the health sector that need to be explored. The phytochemical and minerals play significant roles in fighting microbes and ensuring a healthy body. A quantitative determination of the phytochemicals and minerals is required using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Atomic Emission Spectrometry (AES) or Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) to determine the difference in the quantities between the two species. Further, isolation of active ingredients remains a great need.

Evans, Momanyi M

Assessment of Information Literacy Skills of Undergraduate Medical Students in Selected Public Universities in Kenya Journal Article

Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ), 1 (4), pp. 241-256, 2020, ISSN: 2663-3163.

Abstract | Download Paper(s) | BibTeX

@article{V.241-256.2663-3163,
title = {Assessment of Information Literacy Skills of Undergraduate Medical Students in Selected Public Universities in Kenya},
author = {Momanyi M. Evans},
url = {https://research.lukenyauniversity.ac.ke/241-256-health-science-and-technology-momanyi-m-evans-2020/},
issn = {2663-3163},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-12-31},
journal = {Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ)},
volume = {1},
number = {4},
pages = {241-256},
abstract = {This study was conceived with the aim of investigating information literacy skills (ILS) of medical undergraduate students in selected public universities in Kenya, with a view of proposing a framework to enhance delivery and utilisation of the information literacy skills in institutions of higher learning. Baro (2013) assert that for a medical practitioner or student to derive maximum benefits from information he/she must possess information literacy skills. However, literature reveals that in Kenya, there is no national policy on ILS. Information literacy skills-related training is an individual institutional matter. Further, medical practitioners prefer using human sources instead of online databases or print sources that are readily available because of low information literacy skills. In this line, most medical students do not know how to refine search strategies, lack of skills on how to deal with information explosion and on appropriate use to avoid plagiarizing published scientific work. Majority of learners do not know how to evaluate the credibility of online information sources and the teaching of ILS is inadequate.

The objectives of the study were to: Examine the status of information literacy skills offered to medical undergraduate students at University of Nairobi and Moi University and ascertain the usefulness of these skills; examine the information literacy skills curriculum and assess the methods used in delivering the programme to undergraduate medical students in the two universities; analyze the adequacy of policies and regulations supporting information skills literacy programmes in the two institutions; determine the perceptions of undergraduate medical undergraduate students towards ILS; assess knowledge, skills and training possessed by staff engaged in facilitating ILS among medical undergraduate students; examine the role of ICT in facilitating and promoting information literacy skills among medical undergraduate students at the University of Nairobi and Moi University; and find out the challenges in ILS delivery and develop a framework to enhance ILS among medical undergraduate students in the University of Nairobi and Moi University.

The study was guided by both the Sauce Model as developed by Bond (2009) and the Six Frames of Information Literacy Education Model as developed by Bruce, Edwards & Lupton, (2015). The study utilized the pragmatic research paradigm with mixed method approach. Additionally, multiple case design and convergent parallel design were adopted in data collection.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}

This study was conceived with the aim of investigating information literacy skills (ILS) of medical undergraduate students in selected public universities in Kenya, with a view of proposing a framework to enhance delivery and utilisation of the information literacy skills in institutions of higher learning. Baro (2013) assert that for a medical practitioner or student to derive maximum benefits from information he/she must possess information literacy skills. However, literature reveals that in Kenya, there is no national policy on ILS. Information literacy skills-related training is an individual institutional matter. Further, medical practitioners prefer using human sources instead of online databases or print sources that are readily available because of low information literacy skills. In this line, most medical students do not know how to refine search strategies, lack of skills on how to deal with information explosion and on appropriate use to avoid plagiarizing published scientific work. Majority of learners do not know how to evaluate the credibility of online information sources and the teaching of ILS is inadequate.

The objectives of the study were to: Examine the status of information literacy skills offered to medical undergraduate students at University of Nairobi and Moi University and ascertain the usefulness of these skills; examine the information literacy skills curriculum and assess the methods used in delivering the programme to undergraduate medical students in the two universities; analyze the adequacy of policies and regulations supporting information skills literacy programmes in the two institutions; determine the perceptions of undergraduate medical undergraduate students towards ILS; assess knowledge, skills and training possessed by staff engaged in facilitating ILS among medical undergraduate students; examine the role of ICT in facilitating and promoting information literacy skills among medical undergraduate students at the University of Nairobi and Moi University; and find out the challenges in ILS delivery and develop a framework to enhance ILS among medical undergraduate students in the University of Nairobi and Moi University.

The study was guided by both the Sauce Model as developed by Bond (2009) and the Six Frames of Information Literacy Education Model as developed by Bruce, Edwards & Lupton, (2015). The study utilized the pragmatic research paradigm with mixed method approach. Additionally, multiple case design and convergent parallel design were adopted in data collection.

Koech, Victor; Mbogo, Dr. Chao

Standardization of Light Emiting Diode Feedback on Solar Home Systems (A Review) Journal Article

Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ), 1 (4), pp. 234-240, 2020, ISSN: 2663-3163.

Abstract | Download Paper(s) | BibTeX

@article{V.234-240.2663-3163,
title = {Standardization of Light Emiting Diode Feedback on Solar Home Systems (A Review) },
author = {Victor Koech and Dr. Chao Mbogo},
url = {https://research.lukenyauniversity.ac.ke/234-240-health-science-and-technology-victor-koech-and-dr-chao-mbogo-2020/},
issn = {2663-3163},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-12-31},
journal = {Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ)},
volume = {1},
number = {4},
pages = {234-240},
abstract = {Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are used in a variety of devices ranging from watches to solar home systems, as status indicators or communicative tools. They are typically designed to produce light in different colors and intensities. However, the communicative output varies across devices of similar or different functions. This variation and the sense that there is a wide array of expressions that can be employed, makes it hard for users of the devices to deduce the feedback easily. To address this gap, this paper looks at researches that highlight the importance of LEDs, their incorporation in various devices especially solar home systems and the challenges that arise from lack of standardization of their expressivity.

The findings show that LEDs are a dominant lighting technology and that through Internet of Things (IoT) they are going to become even more prevalent in user devices. The study also finds that solar home systems have become a lifeline for many people not covered by grid electricity, but their adoption can be affected by user perception. It is also found out that with their limited iconography these systems can be challenging to use and so this not only affects usability but also distribution because of the level of support needed.

This paper also investigates how Human Computer Interaction (HCI) frameworks can be employed to solve the identified usability challenges concludes that using a HCI framework to standardize the interface design of LED-touting devices can increase expressivity and user understanding of feedback relayed by these devices. Thus, manufacturers and industry governing bodies need to consider a universal vocabulary of light-based design that can be widely adopted to solve device usage challenges.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}

Jeniffer, Birech; Onyango, Pamela

Exploring the Psychosocial Effects of Obstetric Fistula among Women in Kenya Journal Article

Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ), 1 (4), pp. 226-233, 2020, ISSN: 2663-3163.

Abstract | Download Paper(s) | BibTeX

@article{V.226-233.2663-3163,
title = {Exploring the Psychosocial Effects of Obstetric Fistula among Women in Kenya},
author = {Birech Jeniffer and Pamela Onyango},
url = {https://research.lukenyauniversity.ac.ke/226-233-health-science-and-technology-dr-jennifer-birech-and-pamela-onyango-2020/},
issn = {2663-3163},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-12-31},
journal = {Lukenya University Multidisciplinary Journal (LUMJ)},
volume = {1},
number = {4},
pages = {226-233},
abstract = {Women in the global south continue to experience the pain of Obstetric Fistula (OF), despite the increased use of new technology in the health sector. Obstetric Fistula is a medical condition in which a hole develops between the rectum and vagina (recto-vaginal fistula) or between the bladder and vagina (vesico-vaginal fistula) after a long and obstructed childbirth where medical care is not available. The World Health Organization shows that 50,000 to 100,000 women globally develop obstetric fistula each year. In the Sub Saharan Africa, about two million women have the condition with about 75000 new cases developing yearly. In Kenya, approximately 1% of women suffer from chronic illness due unavailable medical care. This causes untold suffering and stigma among the affected women.

This paper attempts to examine the persistent occurrence of the condition among the affected women, the psycho-social effects and the strategies the Kenyan government has put in place to eradicate it. This paper is based on a systematic review of the past literatures that examined the psychosocial effects of OF.

The studies analysed are both qualitative and mixed method primary studies. The paper found out that the psychological effects are real and traumatizing in the sense that victims lack control over body functions, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. The affected women are mainly young girls and women who are illiterate, poor with little or no access to obstetric care, compounded by weak referral systems.The paper recommends the need for more awareness to be created especially on community perceptions, put and enhance the structures in place to facilitate access to health care.

A strong emphasis on the urgent need to develop a positive attitude towards those affected is critical for reintegration. A collaborative approach that involves the community; medical institutions and development partners should be adopted to enhance effective sustainable solutions.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}

Women in the global south continue to experience the pain of Obstetric Fistula (OF), despite the increased use of new technology in the health sector. Obstetric Fistula is a medical condition in which a hole develops between the rectum and vagina (recto-vaginal fistula) or between the bladder and vagina (vesico-vaginal fistula) after a long and obstructed childbirth where medical care is not available. The World Health Organization shows that 50,000 to 100,000 women globally develop obstetric fistula each year. In the Sub Saharan Africa, about two million women have the condition with about 75000 new cases developing yearly. In Kenya, approximately 1% of women suffer from chronic illness due unavailable medical care. This causes untold suffering and stigma among the affected women.

This paper attempts to examine the persistent occurrence of the condition among the affected women, the psycho-social effects and the strategies the Kenyan government has put in place to eradicate it. This paper is based on a systematic review of the past literatures that examined the psychosocial effects of OF.

The studies analysed are both qualitative and mixed method primary studies. The paper found out that the psychological effects are real and traumatizing in the sense that victims lack control over body functions, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. The affected women are mainly young girls and women who are illiterate, poor with little or no access to obstetric care, compounded by weak referral systems.The paper recommends the need for more awareness to be created especially on community perceptions, put and enhance the structures in place to facilitate access to health care.

A strong emphasis on the urgent need to develop a positive attitude towards those affected is critical for reintegration. A collaborative approach that involves the community; medical institutions and development partners should be adopted to enhance effective sustainable solutions.

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School of Pure and Applied Sciences

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2020