Kirinyaga University

Malaria vector resistance to insecticides is a major threat to the recent progresses in malaria control highlighting the need for continuous epidemiological surveillance in Kenya. WHO tube bioassay tests were used against 0.1% bendiocarb and 0.75% permethrin on Anopheles gambiae s.l. to determine phenotypic resistance. Real-time Polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to identify G119S Acetylcholinesterase (ace1R) and L1014S mutation. Anopheles arabiensis was the most prevalent species, with a frequency of 72% in Malava, 76% in Lurambi, 68% in Mumias East and 58% in Ikolomani. Possible resistance to bendiocarb was observed in all study sites. An. arabiensis exhibited possible resistance across all sites, while Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto showed phenotypic resistance in Lurambi with 87.5% mortality, but fully susceptible in Malava with 100% mortality. The G119S mutation frequency ranged from 0.6% to 2.2% in An. arabiensis while An. gambiae s.s. had a frequency of 0.0% to 1.5%. The frequency of allele was high in An. arabiensis as compared to An. gambiae s.s. across study sites with no significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. There is widespread insecticide resistance in malaria vectors within Kakamega County, with Anopheles arabiensis being the most prevalent species in the County. The detection of bendiocarb possible resistance in An. arabiensis across all sites and resistance in Anopheles gambiae s.s. suggests a challenge for vector control. The low frequency of the G119S ace-1R mutation indicates that resistance may be due to metabolic rather than target-site mechanisms.

Cysteine-bound sulfane sulfur atoms in proteins have received much attention as key factors in cellular redox homeostasis. However, the role of sulfane sulfur in zinc regulation has been underinvestigated. In this study, we identified growth inhibitory factor (GIF)/metallothionein-3 (MT-3) as a sulfane sulfur-binding protein from mouse brain. We also report here that cysteine-bound sulfane sulfur atoms serve as ligands to hold and release zinc ions in GIF/MT-3 with an unexpected C–S–S–Zn structure. Oxidation of such a zinc/persulfide cluster in Zn7GIF/MT-3 results in the release of zinc ions, and intramolecular tetrasulfide bridges in apo-GIF/MT-3 efficiently undergo S–S bond cleavage by thioredoxin to regenerate Zn7GIF/MT-3. Three-dimensional molecular modeling confirmed the critical role of the persulfide group in the thermostability and Zn-binding affinity of GIF/MT-3. The present discovery raises the fascinating possibility that the function of other Zn-binding proteins is controlled by sulfane sulfur.

Coumarin-hemicyanine (CHC) hybrid fluorophores bearing an intramolecular nucleophile have been reported as ratiometric fluorescent probes based on the equilibrium between the π-conjugated open and cyclic closed forms. Here, we report red-shifted CHC derivatives that can serve as scaffold dyes of activated fluorescent probes and activated Raman probes. We prepared a series of cyano-substituted CHC derivatives and found that substitution at C-4 of the coumarin moiety is effective in extending the absorption wavelength. The near-infrared (NIR) emission of these 4CN-CHC derivatives exhibits high tissue penetration. Dual-color imaging with 4CN-CHC enabled ratiometric monitoring of the lysosomal pH changes. Furthermore, the coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) signals of 4CN-CHC derivatives could be regulated by modifying the open/closed equilibrium, and the different patterns of CARS spectra enabled us to perform multicomponent imaging. Thus, these 4CN-CHC derivatives expand the repertoire of functional probes for NIR and multiplexed vibrational imaging.

Purpose: The study aimed to examine the effect of cost leadership strategies on the financial performance of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. It focused on assessing the impact of operational cost minimization and the influence of technology adoption as cost-saving strategies. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, targeting a population of 51 SACCOs in Kirinyaga County. A sample size of 45 SACCOs was determined using Yamane’s (1967) formula. Data were collected from 90 respondents (45 SACCO managers and 45 accountants) through structured surveys and financial record reviews. The study achieved a 100% response rate. Findings: The findings indicated that 96.7% of SACCOs had implemented cost leadership strategies, with 92.2% reporting moderate to significant increases in net income post-adoption. Operational cost minimization significantly contributed to financial gains by enhancing efficiency and reducing overheads. ICT adoption, especially mobile banking (66.7%) and Management Information Systems (25.6%), was identified as a key driver of cost efficiency and improved service delivery. Most SACCOs had utilized ICT for over five years, indicating a mature level of digital integration. The workforce was predominantly aged 31–50 years and held bachelor’s degrees, reflecting a skilled team. However, a shortage of advanced qualifications among professionals was noted as a strategic limitation. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study contributes to theory by reinforcing the positive correlation between cost leadership strategies and organizational financial performance. For policy, it emphasizes the need for strategic support and investment in ICT infrastructure for SACCOs. In practice, the study highlights the importance of equipping SACCO personnel with advanced training and expanding digital services to sustain financial growth and competitiveness.

Makala haya yalidhamiria kuchunguza mchango wa ucheshi katika kuwasilisha dhamira za waandishi wa tamthilia teule za Kiswahili. Tamthilia zilizoteuliwa ni ile ya Kitumbua Kimeingia Mchanga (KKM) iliyoandikwa na S. A Mohammed (2000) na Wingu la Kupita (WLK) iliyoandikwa na K. W Wamitila (1999). Lengo kuu la makala lilikuwa ni kutambua miktadha iliyo na matumizi ya ucheshi katika tamthilia teule. Nadharia ya Umitindo inayoasisiwa na Buffon mnamo mwaka wa 1930 ndiyo iliyoongoza uchunguzi huu. Mtaalamu huyu anaeleza kuwa mtindo ina maana ya namna mwandishi anavyotumia lugha ili kufikisha alichokusudia kwa wasikilizaji na wasomaji anaolenga. Nadharia hii iliendelezwa na Crystal na Davy (1932) ambao walitoa mitazamo minne kuihusu. Wasomi hawa wanaeleza kuwa mtindo ni hulka ya mja anayetumia lugha au ile ya kundi fulani kwenye utumizi huo huo katika kipindi fulani maalum, tathmini ya matumizi ya lugha na mwisho wanauona mtindo kama upekee wa kuifanya kazi za kifasihi kueleweka vyema kulingana na lugha ya kifasihi. Data muhimu ilipatikana kwa kusoma na kuhakiki tamthilia mbili zilizoteuliwa na mtafiti. Vile vile, mtafiti alitembelea maktaba za Chuo Kikuu vya Mount Kenya na kusoma machapisho mengi ya tasnifu zinazohusiana na mada, vitabu na magazeti yaliyokuwa na mada ya ucheshi na mbinu za kimtindo kwa jumla. Pia, mtafiti alitalii mtandaoni ili kusaka habari zaidi zinazohusiana na mbinu za lugha. Sampuli lengwa ilikuwa makala mbalimbali iliyohusiana na mtindo pamoja na tamthilia mbili teule. Baada ya kukusanya data kutoka kwa tamthilia hizi, mtafiti alifanya uchanganuzi kwa kuengemea malengo yaliyowekwa na mihimili ya nadharia iliyochanguliwa. Njia ya kimaelezo ilitumika katika kuwasilisha matokeo ya uchunguzi.

Cyclic codes are a cornerstone of coding theory. Many studies have extensively explored specific finite prime fields, GF(p). However, a generalized framework for GF(p) remains unexplored. Previous research has enumerated cyclic codes over GF(13), GF(17), GF(19), GF(23), GF(31), and GF(37), deriving significant findings for special cases where n assumes specific forms like $n = p^m$ or $n = a^m \cdot p^m$. Despite these advances, existing studies are often restricted to individual prime fields and lack a unified. framework applicable across all GF(p). This research develops a mathematical framework for counting cyclic codes over any prime field GF(p). The methodology involves the use of rigorous mathematical derivations and proofs to establish the relationship between number of cyclic codes, cyclotomic cosets and the factorization of $x^n - 1$ into irreducible polynomials over GF(p). This framework provides a comprehensive understanding of how the structures of n and p influence the number of cyclic codes. The study concludes that the number of cyclic codes, $\mathcal{N}$, over the prime fields can be expressed as $\mathcal{N} = (p^y + 1)^C$, where C is derived from the number of cyclotomic cosets modulo $k \forall n = k \cdot p^y $. This work contributes to the efficient design of error-correcting codes, strengthens the theoretical foundation for secure communication systems, and bridges theoretical concepts of pure mathematics.

The effectiveness of labor productivity determines whether building projects are successful locally and internationally. It has proven difficult to increase Construction Project Labor Productivity (CPLP) in both developed and developing countries. This has been largely due to lack of standardized metrics, inadequacy of CPLP management models, lack of CPLP improvement frameworks and complexity of the concept. Without the aforementioned, it becomes difficult or impossible for consumers and suppliers to estimate the precise cost of a project, which can cause project stalling, cost escalation, profit loss, and a loss of confidence in the construction sector. This study was a quantitative cross-sectional survey of a sample of 129 ongoing building projects in Nairobi City County. It measures and relates CPLP and its determinants, develops a CPLP predictive model and synthesizes a framework for enhancing CPLP. The study establishes that two attributes, Project Information Flow (PIF) and Project Materials Flow (PMF), account for 83.5% of the variability of CPLP. Finally, it sheds light on the use of the framework for CPLP enhancement. The study concludes that better managing the PIF and PMF may significantly enhance construction project labor productivity

When designing a solidification treatment method for a caisson-type quay in Japan, it is necessary to conduct an seismic response analysis under the level 2 earthquake ground motion. On the other hand, the ground improved by deep mixing method exhibits significant spatial variance of its mechanical properties due to heterogeneity of naturally deposited ground and non-uniformity of cement-mixing. In the Japanese design standard for solidification treatment method, instead of considering this spatial variability, it is general to conduct the analysis on uniform ground with reduced average unconfined compression strength of in-situ improved ground. In this paper, we conducted series of analyses on the ground with variability, directly considering the spatial variability of the shear strength, in order to achieve a more low-cost design. Furthermore, we identify the improvement area that significantly affects the residual horizontal displacement of the caisson, and propose a low-cost and safe design method implementing partially high-quality improvement.

Binge-watching has led to a growing concern for the undergraduate students' academic performance. The increased and easy access to internet and streaming devices has provided an opportunity to college students who consider binge-watching as a gratifying pass time. Recent studies explored various effects of binge-watching on adults, teenagers, and students; nevertheless, the current study focuses on determining empirical predictors of academic performance as a result of binge-watching. The data used in the research was manually collected based on a survey administered to college students (N = 150) and analysed using the MANOVA and ANOVA tests. The BWESQ instrument was used for measuring binge-watching levels. On the other hand, procrastination and academic motivation were measured using the procrastination scale and motivation engagement scale (MES), respectively. The outcome of the study shows that binge-watching intensity can predict academic motivation and academic procrastination in college students. Participants with high binge-watching behaviours demonstrated higher procrastination tendencies (F (1,147) = 7.891, p = 0.006). Conversely, high binge-watchers showed low academic motivation, which is a negative effect on the academics of the student (F (2, 146) = 4.326, p = .015). Findings suggest that a mixed-method approach would be appropriate for future studies on binge-watching effects on the academics of college students. Moreover, researchers should re-conceptualize academic performance by including both academic procrastination and academic motivation measures in future research.