Thesis advisor: James Keenan / Thesis advisor: Andrea Vicini / The problems associated with HIV/AIDS and the factors influencing its spread and prevalence are complex. Effective responses to HIV/AIDS are equally complex. Using Nairobi as a microcosm of the greater environment of sub-Saharan Africa, we can gather important lessons that will inform future prevention strategies. Western norms and attitudes towards HIV/AIDS simply have not and will not work in a Kenyan context, because they grow from a completely different situation and set of experiences. Rather, what must be developed is a socially and culturally specific strategy that responds directly to HIV/AIDS and the various ethical issues with which it is associated—gender inequality, poverty, political instability, and pharmaceutical access, among others—directly where each of these issues are located. / Thesis (BS) — Boston College, 2014. / Submitted to: Boston College. College of Arts and Sciences. / Discipline: Theology Honors Program. / Discipline: College Honors Program. / Discipline: Chemistry/Theology.

Thesis. 1978. M.C.P.--Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Urban Studies and Planning. / MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ROTCH. / Bibliography: leaves 199-208. / M.C.P.

Magister Artium (Development Studies) - MA(DVS) / Social entrepreneurship has spread worldwide, as social entrepreneurs seek the solutions to developmental challenges. This is especially true in Nairobi, Kenya, as social entrepreneurship has established itself in the labor market. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the impact of social enterprises in African countries, especially with regards to the labor market. It is for this reason that this study aims at highlighting the impact of social enterprises on the labor market in Nairobi, Kenya. It also provides an outline of the labor market structure in Nairobi. The study employed a mixed methods approach, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches, collected concurrently as part of a concurrent triangulation design. Five social enterprises located in Nairobi were involved in the study, and were chosen through snowball sampling. These social enterprises offered direct employment, training programmes or support for beneficiaries to start their own businesses. The research instruments used in this study were as follows; 10 interviews (5 interviews with beneficiaries and 5 with social entrepreneurs), 50 questionnaires distributed to beneficiaries through random sampling, field work observations and a literature review. The results of this study were that social enterprises in Nairobi have a significant impact on the livelihoods of beneficiaries by directly employing them, providing necessary skills for later employment or supporting them to start their own businesses. However, these increases in income are often either inadequate or inconsistent as most beneficiaries are forced to diversify their livelihoods. Social enterprises also fail to reduce the gender wage gap among their beneficiaries. Social enterprises also increase market access among their beneficiaries by providing them with advice and training, as well as, direct access to customers. In the same vein, they increase the level of training of beneficiaries. This helps beneficiaries improve their relations with customers, produce high quality goods, hone their skills, gain employment, gain experience, build a repertoire, earn profits and start businesses. The subject of training also affects the income levels of beneficiaries, as many of those who study entrepreneurship, quality training and customer service earn above minimum wage. Additionally, social enterprises impact formalization among their beneficiaries. However, once beneficiaries leave, they often return to the informal sector. Therefore, the impact on formalization is only significant while beneficiaries are participating in the social enterprise. Social enterprises also influence the attitudes of beneficiaries, creating a more positive outlook on their contribution to the labor market. Likewise, social enterprises shift perceptions about formal qualifications as beneficiaries feel that they can still secure employment by showing their level of experience or body of work. Lastly, social enterprises have limited impact on fair trade ideals as majority of the social enterprises in Nairobi are not knowledgeable about fair trade, and therefore do not aim towards it. For those that do adopt the fair trade model, it is unclear if they have influenced their beneficiaries to actually believe in these ideals or just simply require them to comply with fair trade regulations. In conclusion, the study determined that social enterprises do have significant impact in the labor market structure, increasing livelihoods, improving educational qualifications, and influencing formalization and attitudinal structures in Nairobi. However, social enterprises must also focus on improving their impact with regards to strengthening livelihoods, especially among their female beneficiaries and creating permanent change in formalization among their beneficiaries even after they leave the enterprise. Likewise, social enterprises should consider the importance of fair trade ideals in their daily practice, and the value of imparting these to their beneficiaries.

The mucosal antibody repertoire of the cervical mucosa in commercial sex workers from Nairobi, Kenya, who are highly sexually exposed to human immune deficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) but remain persistently IgG seronegative (HEPS), may represent a novel source of broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against HIV-1. Mucosal IgA specific for HIV-1 envelope (Env) subunit gp41 has been suggested as a correlate of protection in HEPS individuals. The in depth studies at both the gene and function level required to confirm their role in HIV-1 resistance are possible only using recombinant monoclonal IgAs. Human mAbs have traditionally been selected from libraries displayed on the surface of microorganisms (phage, yeast). However, due to inherent limitations, such techniques may not be optimal for isolating such rare mAbs from a pool of cervical B cells. We have developed an antibody selection system based on surface display on mammalian cells and used this technology to isolate four novel monoclonal antibodies, against linear epitopes on gp41, from the IgA repertoire of the cervical mucosa in Kenyan HEPS. Furthermore, three of the four mAbs were shown to bind with surface expressed consensus clade B and clade C Env on mammalian cells. Characterization of the variable region cDNA of the two strongest binding mAbs reveals extensive somatic mutations with a bias of replacement mutations clustering in the complementary determining regions (CDR) indicating antigen-driven affinity maturation had occurred. Affinity matured monoclonal IgAs, such as these, may play a role in the identification of new, vulnerable epitopes on HIV-1, or act as a component in a topical microbicide.

This study was aimed at unearthing the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement in poverty and development and to propose an appropriate strategy for transformational development in Kibera. The research asked "What are the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement with poverty and development that will inform a comprehensive strategy for transformational development in the Kibera area" This was shaped strongly by the believe that God has strategically positioned and mandated the local church as the agent of both spiritual and social transformation in communities, more so in Kibera. The study focused on the stakeholders of change or development in Kibera, who included church leaders, government representatives, non–governmental organizations, civil society organizations as well community members. In addition, the study also targeted key informants who have critical information on the subject of study, within and outside Kibera. The study applied purposeful sampling to identity respondents. This was because purposeful sampling is easy, flexible and helps one to target the right respondents with the right information for the right questions. It also saves a lot of time. Both structured and unstructured questionnaires were used to carry out interviews with the sampled groups. Overall the response to the study was almost 80 per cent, which is a good representation. Data was coded and analysed and a report generated, which formed the basis for presentation on the findings guided by the main research question. The Bible is very clear on issues of poverty and development and sets the foundation for human engagement for transformation. All good development can be traced to Scripture. It was very clear that Kibera faces a huge problem of poverty, which is complex and multi–faceted in nature. Despite the various efforts by many players including the Church to alleviate poverty, the situation has remained unchanged. Although there are many churches that are seeking to impact the poor in this sprawling informal settlement, their influence remains untapped. The study found out that several factors combine together to make the church's engagement in integral mission very low. Some of these factors include, low educational levels, lack of adequate and relevant training that empowers the churches to engage in holistic ministry. In addition poor and uncoordinated approaches as well as ignorance on the part of the church, still contribute greatly to this problem. Hence an urgent need for an appropriate strategy that seeks to engage the local churches fully in bringing transformational development in Kibera. Following these revelations, the study has identified several elements that should be considered in developing an integrated transformational strategy for Kibera. Some of the key elements include partnerships, empowerment and capacity building on the part of the churches, holistic programming as well as a strong focus on advocacy to help confront the systems and structures that continue to perpetuate poverty in Kibera. Towards that end, the study recommends a three–legged model: Sustained Transformational Model (STM) for Kibera that focuses on sustained holistic programming, sustained partnerships as well as sustained advocacy. The primary focus of the model (centre) is to ensure sustained well being of communities. In the end the study has made some critical recommendations for key stakeholders in Kibera. The churches are called upon to embrace a more holistic and sustainable approach to ministry. The governments and other development partners are challenged to consider and include in their strategies ways and means to strengthen the local churches as the sustaining community institutions to bring authentic transformational change in Kibera. Finally, those interested in further studies are provide with some key areas that they can investigate further, key being the specific contribution of churches in development in Kibera. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Missiology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.

The mucosal antibody repertoire of the cervical mucosa in commercial sex workers from Nairobi, Kenya, who are highly sexually exposed to human immune deficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) but remain persistently IgG seronegative (HEPS), may represent a novel source of broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against HIV-1. Mucosal IgA specific for HIV-1 envelope (Env) subunit gp41 has been suggested as a correlate of protection in HEPS individuals. The in depth studies at both the gene and function level required to confirm their role in HIV-1 resistance are possible only using recombinant monoclonal IgAs. Human mAbs have traditionally been selected from libraries displayed on the surface of microorganisms (phage, yeast). However, due to inherent limitations, such techniques may not be optimal for isolating such rare mAbs from a pool of cervical B cells. We have developed an antibody selection system based on surface display on mammalian cells and used this technology to isolate four novel monoclonal antibodies, against linear epitopes on gp41, from the IgA repertoire of the cervical mucosa in Kenyan HEPS. Furthermore, three of the four mAbs were shown to bind with surface expressed consensus clade B and clade C Env on mammalian cells. Characterization of the variable region cDNA of the two strongest binding mAbs reveals extensive somatic mutations with a bias of replacement mutations clustering in the complementary determining regions (CDR) indicating antigen-driven affinity maturation had occurred. Affinity matured monoclonal IgAs, such as these, may play a role in the identification of new, vulnerable epitopes on HIV-1, or act as a component in a topical microbicide.

This study was aimed at unearthing the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement in poverty and development and to propose an appropriate strategy for transformational development in Kibera. The research asked "What are the underlying factors for the Church's poor engagement with poverty and development that will inform a comprehensive strategy for transformational development in the Kibera area" This was shaped strongly by the believe that God has strategically positioned and mandated the local church as the agent of both spiritual and social transformation in communities, more so in Kibera. The study focused on the stakeholders of change or development in Kibera, who included church leaders, government representatives, non–governmental organizations, civil society organizations as well community members. In addition, the study also targeted key informants who have critical information on the subject of study, within and outside Kibera. The study applied purposeful sampling to identity respondents. This was because purposeful sampling is easy, flexible and helps one to target the right respondents with the right information for the right questions. It also saves a lot of time. Both structured and unstructured questionnaires were used to carry out interviews with the sampled groups. Overall the response to the study was almost 80 per cent, which is a good representation. Data was coded and analysed and a report generated, which formed the basis for presentation on the findings guided by the main research question. The Bible is very clear on issues of poverty and development and sets the foundation for human engagement for transformation. All good development can be traced to Scripture. It was very clear that Kibera faces a huge problem of poverty, which is complex and multi–faceted in nature. Despite the various efforts by many players including the Church to alleviate poverty, the situation has remained unchanged. Although there are many churches that are seeking to impact the poor in this sprawling informal settlement, their influence remains untapped. The study found out that several factors combine together to make the church's engagement in integral mission very low. Some of these factors include, low educational levels, lack of adequate and relevant training that empowers the churches to engage in holistic ministry. In addition poor and uncoordinated approaches as well as ignorance on the part of the church, still contribute greatly to this problem. Hence an urgent need for an appropriate strategy that seeks to engage the local churches fully in bringing transformational development in Kibera. Following these revelations, the study has identified several elements that should be considered in developing an integrated transformational strategy for Kibera. Some of the key elements include partnerships, empowerment and capacity building on the part of the churches, holistic programming as well as a strong focus on advocacy to help confront the systems and structures that continue to perpetuate poverty in Kibera. Towards that end, the study recommends a three–legged model: Sustained Transformational Model (STM) for Kibera that focuses on sustained holistic programming, sustained partnerships as well as sustained advocacy. The primary focus of the model (centre) is to ensure sustained well being of communities. In the end the study has made some critical recommendations for key stakeholders in Kibera. The churches are called upon to embrace a more holistic and sustainable approach to ministry. The governments and other development partners are challenged to consider and include in their strategies ways and means to strengthen the local churches as the sustaining community institutions to bring authentic transformational change in Kibera. Finally, those interested in further studies are provide with some key areas that they can investigate further, key being the specific contribution of churches in development in Kibera. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Missiology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.

Thesis (D. Min.)--Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, 1992. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 196-199).

Zugl.: Bonn, Universiẗat, Diss., 2008.

Thesis (MNutr (Interdisciplinary Health Sciences. Human Nutrition))--University of Stellenbosch, 2006. / INTRODUCTION: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, reduction in quality of life, and increasing health care costs OBJECTIVE: The study objective was to identify the risk factors associated with the occurrence of osteoporosis, in Kenyan Asian women seen at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya since there is no literature on the prevalence of all these risk factors for osteoporosis in a similar middle aged population sample of Kenyan Asian women. METHOD: The study was of a retrospective design and used recall as a basis of data collection. A socio-demographic questionnaire was completed and anthropometric measurements, of height, weight, waist and hip circumference taken. Bone mineral density (BMD) had been measured previously using Quantitative Computed Tomography (QCT) at the lumbar spine, T11 to L4. Nutrient intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and physical activity was determined using the Epic Physical Activity Questionnaire 2 (EPAQ2). BMD scans had been done on all study participants from January 2004 to December 2004 and the subjects were aware of their bone status. RESULTS: Risk factors that were identified by being associated with the development of osteoporosis in Asian women were age (p<0.001), waist size (p<0.001), hip size (p<0.001) and BMI (p<0.001), low physical activity (p=0.001) and use of prescription drugs. Seventy two percent of the study sample was using prescription drugs and the effect on bone mass was most likely detrimental. Anti-hypertensive (p=0.002), non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (p=0.003) and anti-diabetic drugs (p=0.033) had a significant negative association with bone health. Energy, protein, fat and carbohydrate intake in all the groups was above the EAR and comparatively similar. The intake of all the micronutrients in the study group was above the DRI. There were no statistical significant differences in most of the trace element intake between the two groups, apart from iodine, biotin and manganese. No dietary risk factors were identified which impacted adversely on bone health in this group. The impact of gynaecologic history (parity, oral contraceptive use, age of menarche) on BMD was uncertain. The educational level of the study sample was high as 50% of the subjects were graduates and had a relatively better diet. CONCLUSION: As Kenyan Asian women age they experience the menopausal transition and the risk of developing osteoporosis increases. No nutritional factors were identified that were adversely associated with BMD. Low level of physical activity, prescription drugs for chronic diseases like hypertension, asthma, diabetes and arthritis, age, weight and body mass index were identified and found to be adversely associated with bone mineral density. Early detection, and implementation of patient education, physical activity, and a diet rich in all nutrients, will help to slow down the progression of osteoporosis.