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In Silico Analysis of Vitamin D Interactions with Aging Proteins: Docking, Molecular Dynamics, and Solvation Free Energy Studies
No full textThis research article was published by ChemEngineering, Volume 8, 2024Aging is a natural process that is also influenced by some factors like the food someone eats, lifestyle decisions, and impacts on general health. Despite the recognized role of nutrition in modulating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying aging, there is a lack of comprehensive exploration into potential interventions that can effectively mitigate these effects. In this study, we investigated the potential anti-aging properties of vitamin D by examining its interactions with key molecular targets involved in aging-related pathways. By using molecular docking and dynamics techniques, we evaluate the interactions and stability of vitamins D2 and D3 with key proteins involved in aging pathways, such as SIRT1, mTOR, AMPK, Klotho, AhR, and MAPK. Our results reveal promising binding affinities between vitamin D and SIRT1 forms, with energy values of −48.33 kJ/mol and −45.94 kJ/mol for vitamins D2 and D3, respectively, in aqueous environments. Moreover, molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the vitamin D3–SIRT1 complex exhibited greater stability compared with the vitamin D2–SIRT1 complex. The study calculated the solvation free energy to compare the solubility of vitamins D2 and D3 in water and various organic solvents. Despite their strong interactions with water, both vitamins exhibited low solubility, primarily due to the high energy cost associated with cavity formation in the aqueous environment. Compared with other solvents, water demonstrated particularly low solubility for both vitamins. This suggested that vitamins D2 and D3 preferred binding to aging receptors over dissolving in bulk aqueous environments, supporting their strong therapeutic interactions with these receptors. These findings shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying vitamin D’s potential anti-aging effects and lay the groundwork for developing nutraceuticals targeting aging and associated diseases. Understanding these mechanisms holds promise for future interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging and enhancing overall well-being
Optimal design and analysis of a grid- connected hybrid renewable energy system using homer pro: a case study of Tumbatu island, Zanzibar
Full text linkA Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Science and Engineering of the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and TechnologyThis study addresses the issue of quality electricity access on Tumbatu Island in Tanzania, with
a specific focus on enhancing the high-voltage (HV) transmission line. While many studies
concentrate on low-voltage (LV) transmission lines, HV lines play a crucial role and merit
more attention. Therefore, the objective of the study is to improve the voltage profile of the HV
transmission line through a hybrid energy system comprising solar PV, wind turbines, and
batteries. This effort begins with an analysis of the total power demand and consumption, which
are essential for designing an effective energy system. The study employs HOMER Pro to
simulate various hybrid system configurations. The simulation findings indicate that
integrating solar PV, wind turbines, and HV lines leads to a significant enhancement in the
voltage profile, raising it from 29.6 kV to 31.23 kV during peak demand. This solution
demonstrates the highest economic viability, boasting the lowest Net Present Cost (NPC) of
USD 4 003 851 and a relatively short payback period (PB) of 3.79 years. Implementing this
hybrid system not only meets the island's energy needs but also contributes to global pollution
reduction and minimizes electricity costs for the population of Tumbatu Island. Furthermore,
it addresses the demand for clean energy, emphasizing its role in achieving sustainable and
accessible electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyon
The Significance of Data Management Plans (DMP) as a Critical Element in Enhancing Research Processes for Researchers in Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs): A dataset
No full textThis research article was published by Neema Florence MoshaThe Significance of Data Management Plans (DMP) as a Critical Element in Enhancing Research Processes for Researchers in Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs): A dataset" using the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) as a case study. This study aims to contribute to decision-making and best practices in data management planning among researchers in higher learning institutions
Computer Science Education in Selected Countries from Sub-Saharan Africa
Full text linkThis Article was publisher by SPECIAL ISSUEComputer Science education in sub-Saharan Africa has
evolved over the past decades. The number of institutions
offering distinct undergraduate programs has grown, thus
increasing the number of students enrolling in the computer
science discipline. Several computer science degree programs
have emerged with one of the objectives being to satisfy the
growing demand for local talent and skills. In this paper, we
provide a snapshot of the evolution of undergraduate computer
science education in selected countries in Sub-Saharan Africa
over the past 20+ years and an overview of the developments
in computer science education and observed trends. The
setup of educational institutions in Africa and the operational
context requires unique modalities for the design and delivery
of computer science education that meets the demands of the
industry, amongst others. This paper provides insights into
the best practices in the computer science curricula in the
selected countries, as well as an overview of the pedagogical
and delivery approaches to computer science education. The
paper highlights case studies from institutions in the selected
countries, namely Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, Tanzania,
and Kenya with a consolidated summary of the current and
emerging challenges and opportunities in all these countries.
The paper concludes by providing persectives on the future
landscape of computer science in Sub-Saharan Africa
Population dynamics of the Multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis) and Makundi’s brush fur rat (Lophuromys makundii) and their implications in disease …
Full text linkThis research article was pulished by Springer,In 2024Understanding host population dynamics in connection to disease persistence is important for determining the epizootic risks present in plague foci. We used a capture-mark-recapture method to investigate the population dynamics of Mastomys natalensis and Lophuromys makundii in an active plague focus, in Mbulu District, Tanzania. We hypothesized higher abundance in plague-persistent locality and between habits and seasons. We found distinct patterns of abundance in M. natalensis between farm and forest habitats. The abundance was significantly higher in farms in plague persistent than non-plague persistent areas. The dry season showed a significant increase of abundance compared to the long rain season and the short rain season. A significant increase in breeding females was observed in farms in plague persistent than non-plague persistent localities while farms showed a significant decrease compared to forests. Dry season was associated with an increase in breeding females compared to the long rain season and the short rain season. Furthermore, the abundance of L. makundii showed a significant increase in forest in plague persistent than non-plague persistent localities. The abundance increased significantly during the dry season and long rain season compared to the short rain season. The proportion of breeding females was significantly higher in forests in plague persistent than non-plague persistent localities. The breeding females significantly increased during the dry and the short rain season than the long rain season. These findings contribute to our understanding of the ecological factors shaping the population dynamics of these species and their potential roles in plague persistence
Forecasting Financial Resilience: An Analysis of Practices and Limitations in Predicting Trends - A Case Study of Microcredit in Tanzania
Full text linkThis book chapter was published by B P International, 2024This research paper delves into the intricate landscape of financial resilience within
Tanzanian microcredit institutions, focusing on predictive methodologies and the
integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for enhanced forecasting accuracy.
Through an exhaustive exploration of traditional practices and emerging AI-driven
solutions, this study examines the evolving strategies and limitations encounteredpredictive capacities within Tanzanian microcredit institutions. It emphasizes the
imperative nature of investing in resources and expertise to leverage AI potential
for sustainable growth and heightened forecasting accuracy in this rapidly evolving
financial landscape. This study contributes essential insights into the challenges,
opportunities, and potential pathways for leveraging advanced technologies in
enhancing financial resilience within microcredit institutions, fostering a more
sustainable and prosperous future for Tanzania microcredit sector.
in predicting financial trends within this dynamic sector. Employing a mixed-
methods approach encompassing diverse case studies across key Tanzanian
regions - Dar-es-Salaam, Arusha, and Kilimanjaro - the research garnered insights
into localized complexities, historical evolution, and direct impact on bolstering
financial resilience. Findings underscored the multifaceted objectives pursued by
microcredit institutions in trend projection, emphasizing the primary goals of
optimizing investment strategies, managing liquidity effectively, and planning for
sustainable growth and expansion. While traditional methodologies demonstrated
some efficacy, challenges in data quality, interpretation, and predictive analytics
expertise emerged as impediments to accurate trend projection. Proposed AI-
based solutions offered promising outcomes, with anticipated benefits including
improved prediction accuracy, enhanced decision-making, and potential cost
savings. However, concerns regarding data security, expertise, and
implementation costs pose notable challenges to widespread AI integration.
Therefore, the research advocates for the integration of AI technologies to fortif
Future Trade-Off for Water Resource Allocation: The Role of Land Cover/Land Use Change
Full text linkThis article was published by MDPI,in 2024Global croplands, pastures, and human settlements Have expanded in recent decades.
This is accompanied by large increases in energy, water, and fertilizer consumption, along with
considerable losses of biodiversity. In sub-Saharan Africa, policies are implemented without critical
consideration; e.g., agricultural expansions impair ecosystem services. We studied land use/cover
and the associated rate of change for four time epochs, i.e., 1991, 2001, 2011, and 2021. This employed
remote sensing and GIS techniques for analysis, while future projections were modeled using cellular
automata and the Markov chain. The kappa coefficient statistics were used to assess the accuracy
of the final classified image, while reference images for accuracy assessment were developed based
on ground truthing. Overall change between 1991 and 2021 showed that major percentage losses
were experienced by water, forest, woodland, and wetland, which decreased by 8222 Ha (44.11%),
426,161 Ha (35.72%), 399,584 Ha (35.01%), and 105,186 Ha (34.82%), respectively. On the other Hand,
a percentage increase during the same period was experienced in cultivated land, built-up areas, and
grasslands, which increased by 659,346 Ha (205.28%), 11,894 Ha (159.93%), and 33,547 Ha (98.47%),
respectively. However, this expansion of thirsty sectors Has not reversed the increasing amount of
water discharged out of the Kilombero River catchment. We recommend the promotion of agroforests
along with participatory law enforcement and capacity building of local communities’ institutions
Morphological evidence for the potential protective effects of curcumin and Garcinia kola against diabetes in the rat hippocampus
Full text linkThis research article was published by Research Square, 2024This research investigated the effects of sciatic nerve transection and diabetes on the hippocampus, and
the protective effects of
Garcinia kola and curcumin. Thirty-five adult male Wistar albino rats were divided
into five groups: a control group (Cont), a transected group (Sham group), a transected + diabetes mellitus
group (DM), a transected + diabetes mellitus +
Garcinia kola group (DM + GK), and a transected + DM +
curcumin group (DM + Cur), each containing seven animals. The experimental diabetes model was
created with the intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of streptozotocin. No procedure was applied to
the Cont group, while sciatic nerve transection was performed on the other groups.
Garcinia kola was
administered to the rats in DM + GK, and curcumin to those in DM + Cur. Cardiac perfusion was performed
at the end of the experimental period. Brain tissues were dissected for stereological, histopathological,
and immunohistochemical evaluations. The volume ratios of hippocampal layers to the entire
hippocampus volume were compared between the groups. Anti-S100, anti-caspase 3, and anti-SOX 2
antibodies were used for immunohistochemical analysis. No statistically significant difference was
observed in the volume ratios of the four hippocampal layers. However, the volume ratio of the stratum
lucidum was higher in the Sham, DM, and DM + Cur groups compared to the Cont group. While curcumin
exhibited a protective effect on hippocampal tissue following diabetes induction,
Garcinia kola had only a
weak protective effect. Increased cell density and nuclear deterioration due to diabetes and nerve
transection can be partially ameliorated by treatment with
Garcinia kola and curcumi
Characterization of phenotypic traits associated with anthracnose resistance in selected common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) breeding material
No full textThis research article was published by Elsevier,2024Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is the major common bean disease worldwide causing complete yield loss under favourable disease conditions. This study aimed to determine phenotypic traits associated with anthracnose resistance for future use in breeding programmes. Twenty-two common bean varieties (CBVs) were selected basing on susceptibility to anthracnose, advanced breeding lines, improved variety resembling advanced breeding lines and the farmer variety widely grown in Tanzania. Selected varieties were planted in anthracnose hotspot fields and the same CBVs were planted in a screen house to validate resistance to anthracnose. Anthracnose infection score, leaf length, leaf width, length of fifth internode, length of petiole, plant vigour, canopy height and canopy width were recorded. Data on number of plants emerging; days to flowering; days to maturity; plant stands at harvest; and grain yield were also collected and analysed using R software. Phenotypic traits evaluated differed significantly among genotypes, environment and genotype by environment interaction. Seventy-five percent of phenotypic traits evaluated were positively correlated to anthracnose resistance.
Highly-strong correlations to anthracnose were observed on number of days to maturity, plant stands at harvest, plant vigour and grain yield. Leaf length, leaf width, length of fifth internode, length of petiole and number of stands emerging were strongly correlated to anthracnose resistance. Additive main effects and multiplicative interaction analysis (AMMI) revealed highest contribution of environment on anthracnose infection-58.9% and grain yield −84.9% compared to genotype effects on anthracnose infection −32.7% and grain yield-15.7%. Based on these results, four traits – plant vigour, number of days to maturity, number of plant stands at harvest and grain yield – are recommended for selecting anthracnose-resistant varieties. NUA 48, NUA 64 and RWR 2154 were superior varieties, resistant to anthracnose and high yielding, while Sweet Violet and VTT 923-23-10 were most stable varieties across environments. Further on-farm research is suggested to assess their performance and identify traits preferred by farmer
Solvothermal liquefaction of orange peels into biocrude: An experimental investigation of biocrude yield and energy compositional dependency on process variables
Full text linkThis research article was published in the Bioresource Technology, Vol. 34, 2024The efficient valorization of biomass for energy-derived biocrudes is essential for effective waste management. However, the production of biocrudes with high energy and reduced oxygen contents during the liquefaction process requires further insight. Therefore, the impact of reaction temperature, residence time, and ethanol: acetone on the energy compositions and bioproduct’s yield enhancement were investigated. The biocrudes obtained were characterized using elemental analysis, GC–MS, FTIR, GPC and TGA to understand the effects of process parameters on the biocrudes’ compositions. An improved HHV (38.18 MJ/kg) and lower O/C ratio (0.11) were obtained at 430 °C, 35 min and 50% ethanol with a significant improvement in the enhancement factor, deoxygenation, and percentage hydrogenation of 2.63, 36.88%, and 77.87%, respectively. The presence of ketones, hydrocarbons, phenolics and aromatics of 23.74, 4.28, 37.20 and 17.81% respectively indicate the potential of the obtained biocrude as renewable energy sources upon further upgrading