54 research outputs found
Morphosyntactic and Semantic Aspects of Verb Extension Systems in Bantu Languages : A Case Study of Kuria (E43) in Tanzania
No full textDie vorliegende Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit Verbalerweiterungen (Extensionen) im Kuria. Es wird untersucht, wie sich das erweiterte Verb in gesprochenen und schriftlichen Formen von Kuria in Bezug auf morphosyntaktische und semantische Eigenschaften verhält. Die Studie befasst sich mit vier Schlüsselthemen, erstens mit den morphosyntaktischen und semantischen Implikationen der Neuordnung und Wiederholung von Erweiterungen, zweitens mit dem Ausmaß der Verwendung von Verbalextensionen in gesprochenem und geschriebenem Kuria, drittens mit prominenten Extensionen und viertens mit der Frage nach dem gleichzeitigen Auftreten von Erweiterungen im Kuria. Die Studie zeichnet sich durch einen Mehrmethoden-Ansatz aus, bei dem sowohl qualitative, als auch quantitative Forschungstechniken verwendet werden, um die Daten zu analysieren. Unter den beiden Forschungsdesigns werden vier Techniken für die Datenerhebung verwendet, nämlich Fragebögen, halbstrukturierte Interviews, Video-Stimulus und geschriebener Text. Die Studie orientiert sich an vier theoretischen Konzepten: der Theta-Theorie und dem Projektionsprinzip von Chomsky (1981/1986), der Argumentstrukturheorie von Babby (2009) und der Theorie der funktionalen Grammatik von Dik (1997). Die Ergebnisse der Studie zeigen, dass die Neuordnung und Wiederholungen von Erweiterungen die Argumente morphosyntaktisch und semantisch beeinflussen und gleichermaßen zum Wechsel der Argumente führen und damit die thematischen Rollen der Ergänzungen des Verbs verändern. Somit ergeben sich unterschiedliche Bedeutungen in Abhängigkeit der verschiedenen Stellungen der Erweiterungen, da die Ergänzungen des Verbs einen Einfluss auf die Wortstellung haben. Die Studie zeigt auch, dass, obwohl Verbalerweiterungen im gesprochenen sowie im geschriebenen Kuria auftreten, mehr Erweiterungen in der gesprochenen Sprache als in der schriftlichen verwendet werden. Darüber hinaus zeigt die Analyse, dass Erweiterungen, die nur ein Erweiterungsmorphem beinhalten, häufiger in schriftlicher (Bibelübersetzungen) als in gesprochener Form (Interviews) auftreten. Ferner zeigt die Studie, dass die Passiv-Erweiterung die dominante Erweiterung ist, sowohl im gesprochenen als auch im geschriebenen Corpus. Darüber hinaus ist das gemeinsame Auftreten von zwei Erweiterungen, nämlich Applikativ mit Kausativ (A+K), die häufigste Erscheinungsform sowohl in gesprochenem als auch geschriebenem Kuria
Indigenous knowledge and use of medicinal plants among the Kuria communities in the Tarime and Serengeti districts of Mara Region, Tanzania
No full textThis study documented indigenous knowledge and use of medicinal plants among the Kuria communities in Mara Region, Tanzania. Ethnobotanical data were collected in collaboration with 20 traditional healers (THs), by jungle-walk-and-identify, field guides and observation, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and scientific identification of plants. Kuria medicinal plant healers reported 100 medicinal plants from 34 families. Asteraceae (15%) prevailed, followed by Fabaceae (13%) and Lamiaceae (12%). Herbs constituted the largest fraction (41%), followed by shrubs (27%), trees (24%), grasses (4%), climbers (4%), and ferns (1%). Leaves were the most used plant part. Healers listed about 53 diseases treated with plants
Indigenous knowledge and use of medicinal plants among the Kuria communities in the Tarime and Serengeti districts of Mara Region, Tanzania
No full textThis study documented indigenous knowledge and use of medicinal plants among the Kuria communities in Mara Region, Tanzania. Ethnobotanical data were collected in collaboration with 20 traditional healers (THs), by jungle-walk-and-identify, field guides and observation, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and scientific identification of plants. Kuria medicinal plant healers reported 100 medicinal plants from 34 families. Asteraceae (15%) prevailed, followed by Fabaceae (13%) and Lamiaceae (12%). Herbs constituted the largest fraction (41%), followed by shrubs (27%), trees (24%), grasses (4%), climbers (4%), and ferns (1%). Leaves were the most used plant part. Healers listed about 53 diseases treated with plants.This study documented indigenous knowledge and use of medicinal plants among the Kuria communities in Mara Region, Tanzania. Ethnobotanical data were collected in collaboration with 20 traditional healers (THs), by jungle-walk-and-identify, field guides and observation, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and scientific identification of plants. Kuria medicinal plant healers reported 100 medicinal plants from 34 families. Asteraceae (15%) prevailed, followed by Fabaceae (13%) and Lamiaceae (12%). Herbs constituted the largest fraction (41%), followed by shrubs (27%), trees (24%), grasses (4%), climbers (4%), and ferns (1%). Leaves were the most used plant part. Healers listed about 53 diseases treated with plants.A
Trace and major element analysis for rock samples from Lodwar and its environs, Turkana County, Kenya
No full text53 of 69 rock samples collected in the Lodwar region (Turkana County, Kenya) in February to June 2018 were processed and analysed to assess their chemical composition. The samples were finely ground and analysed for major elements including Na, Mg, Al, P, S, K, Ca, Fe, and Mn, as well as trace elements such as Ti, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Mo, and Pb. The analytical work was conducted at the International Centre of Agriculture and Forestry (ICRAF) laboratory using X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the results, quality control measures included meticulous sample grinding, calibration of XRD instruments, and the use of certified reference materials. This dataset provides valuable insights into the elemental composition of the rock samples, which is crucial for understanding their potential influence on groundwater quality in the region.
The XRD analysis facilitated the identification of key minerals present in the rock samples, such as feldspars, micas, and oxides. These minerals are critical for understanding the geochemical behavior of the rocks. Their presence and abundance influence the weathering processes and the subsequent release of elements into groundwater. For example, high concentrations of feldspar can lead to increased levels of potassium and sodium in groundwater, while the presence of iron oxides can impact water coloration and quality. This dataset provides additional insights into the mineralogical and elemental composition of the rocks, which is crucial for predicting their impact on groundwater quality and understanding the potential geochemical interactions within the region.
Related publications include:
Tanui, F., Olago, D., Dulo, S., Ouma, G. & Kuria. Z. (2021). Petrography and Geochemistry of the Rocks in Lodwar, Kenya and their Influences on Groundwater Quality. Africa Journal of Physical Sciences Vol. 6, pp. 15-44. https://uonjournals.uonbi.ac.ke/ojs/index.php/ajps/article/view/1026/932 (https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:775da78c-a7a7-47bf-b296-9ac5e88948f7); Tanui, F. (2021).
Tanui, F. (2021). Characterization of the Hydrogeology of the Lodwar Alluvial Aquifer System, Turkana County, Kenya. A thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Geology of the University of Nairobi. http://erepository.uonbi.ac.ke/handle/11295/157075
Tanui, F., Olago, D., Dulo, S. Ouma, G., & Kuria, Z. (2020). Hydrogeochemistry of a strategic alluvial aquifer system in a semi-arid setting and its implications for potable urban water supply: The Lodwar Alluvial Aquifer System (LAAS), Groundwater for Sustainable Development, Volume 11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gsd.2020.10045
Thin section photomicrographs of rock samples from Lodwar and its environs, Turkana County, Kenya
No full textTen of 69 rock samples collected during a comprehensive geological mapping exercise in Lodwar (Turkana County, Kenya) conducted in February and May 2018 were petrographically analyzed. Thin sections were prepared at the Department of Mines and Geology laboratory using standard mounting techniques. The thin sections underwent detailed petrographic analysis to characterize mineral composition, texture, and rock fabric. Quality control measures included careful preparation of samples to avoid contamination, adherence to standard procedures for mounting and polishing, and detailed microscopy observations to ensure accurate interpretation of mineralogical and textural properties in the rock samples.
The petrographic analysis facilitated the identification of key minerals within the rock samples, such as quartz, feldspar, and various silicates, which play a significant role in determining the chemical behavior of the rocks. The mineralogical composition has direct implications for groundwater quality, as it affects the leaching processes and the subsequent chemical composition of the groundwater. For instance, the presence of reactive minerals may influence the concentration of ions in the groundwater, impacting water quality and potentially affecting its suitability for consumption and agricultural use. Understanding these mineralogical characteristics is essential for predicting the interactions between rock formations and groundwater chemistry in the region.
Related publications include: Tanui, F., Olago, D., Dulo, S., Ouma, G. & Kuria. Z. (2021). Petrography and Geochemistry of the Rocks in Lodwar, Kenya and their Influences on Groundwater Quality. Africa Journal of Physical Sciences Vol. 6, pp. 15-44. https://uonjournals.uonbi.ac.ke/ojs/index.php/ajps/article/view/1026/932 (https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:775da78c-a7a7-47bf-b296-9ac5e88948f7
Factors Affecting Effectiveness of Poverty Reduction Programmes in Kenya; A Case study of Kazi kwa Vijana Program-Maai Mahiu Location
No full textSubsurface characterization of the proposed Karura hydroelectric power plant tunnel using multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW)
No full textIsotope analysis of groundwater, surface water and rain in Lodwar and its environs, Turkana County, Kenya
No full textThis study aimed to analyze water sources within the Turkwel River basin in Turkana County, focusing on isotope analysis of groundwater, surface water, and rain. The isotope study represented the first comprehensive effort to understand water sources in northwestern Kenya. Water sources included
rainwater, rivers, water pans, Lake Turkana, and groundwater from springs, scoop holes, wells, and boreholes, adhering to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and American Public Health Association (APHA) guidelines. A total of 112 georeferenced water samples were collected during the peak of the wet season in May 2018 as follows: rain (1), Turkwel River (4); Kawalase river (2); water pans (5); Lake Turkana (2) – one at the Turkwel delta and one at its shores at Eliye Spring, and; groundwater (98) - comprising one spring (Eliye Spring), seven scoop holes (all <1m bgl) in dry ephemeral streams, 52 samples from wells operated by handpumps, and 38 boreholes.
Duplicate samples were taken from each source using 500 ml polyethylene bottles and were georeferenced using GPS. Samples were labeled, preserved in cooler boxes at 4°C, and further refrigerated at the University of Nairobi before being exported to Elemtex Lab, UK, for isotope analysis. δ18O and δ2H were measured using high temperature conversion elemental analyzers coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometers, while δ3H was measured via liquid scintillation counting after electrolytic enrichment. Quality control measures included strict adherence to established protocols for isotope sampling. Samples with EC values greater than 1000 ppm were excluded from tritium determination.
Related publications:
Tanui, F., Olago, D., Dulo, S. Ouma, G., & Kuria, Z. (2020). Hydrogeochemistry of a strategic alluvial aquifer system in a semi-arid setting and its implications for potable urban water supply: The Lodwar Alluvial Aquifer System (LAAS), Groundwater for Sustainable Development, Volume 11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gsd.2020.10045
Hydrochemical and isotopic characteristics of the Lodwar Alluvial Aquifer System (LAAS) in Northwestern Kenya and implications for sustainable groundwater use in dryland urban areas
Full text linkGroundwater is a crucial resource for dryland regions such as this, where surface water resources are limited and unreliable. This paper presents a study of the Lodwar Alluvial Aquifer System (LAAS) in northwestern Kenya and its hydrochemical and isotopic characteristics, with the goal of understanding how to sustainably manage the groundwater system. As a result, the paper focuses on elucidating the hydrogeochemical and river-groundwater interaction (using environmental isotopes and major ion chemistry) of an aquifer that is located in the north-western dryland of Kenya. The study utilised environmental isotopes of oxygen-18 (18O), deuterium (2H), and tritium (3H) as tracers for establishing recharge sources and origin of groundwater. A sampling campaign involving 112 water samples was conducted to establish isotopic compositions of rain, spring, surface water (rivers, scoop holes, dams and lake) and groundwater at the peak of the wet season in May 2018. The tritium values in the study area ranged from 1.1 to 2.4 TU. Considering the median values of δ18O and δ2H in surface water and groundwater samples, four clusters emerge based on the degree of enrichment; Cluster 1 comprises the lake water (δ18O = +6.01, δ2H = +41.9); Cluster 2 is the Turkwel and Kawalase river water with slightly positive relative to VSMOW and with different δ2H values (+7.6‰ versus −9.8‰). The third cluster is the groundwater of the Shallow Alluvial Aquifer (SAA) and the Deep Aquifer (DA) (δ18O = −0.96‰ and −0.70‰; and δ2H = +0.4‰ and +0.6‰, respectively). The last cluster comprises the most isotope-depleted waters of water pans, scoop holes, Intermediate Aquifer (IA) and Turkana Grit Shall Aquifer (TGSA) with median values ranging from −2.87‰ to −2.48‰ for δ18O and −8.6‰ and −16.4‰ for δ2H. While the SAA is mainly recharge by the Turkwel River, a relationship is observed between the values deuterium in the Kawalase (−9.6‰ VSMOW) and IA (−8.6‰ VSMOW). Understanding recharge sources and aquifer vulnerability of similar strategic aquifers helps scientists appropriately advise policymakers and the water community who develop sustainable water use, aquifer protection and conservation strategies. In addition, the study contributes scientific evidence of isotopic compositions of groundwater in the Horn of Africa. Furthermore, the evidence of surface water-groundwater interaction presents a case of a fragile dryland ecosystem. Future work will involve the installation of piezometers in strategic aquifer zones to monitor groundwater levels in relation to river gauging data to quantify the amount of recharge and establish the impacts of rainfall variability in the upstream catchment
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