Kaduna State University Research Articles

Performance evaluation of students’ hostel of the college of Agriculture and Environmental Science Kaduna State University, Nigeria

Performance evaluation of students’ hostel of the college of Agriculture and Environmental Science Kaduna State University, Nigeria

Antibacterial Susceptibility Pattern of Bacteria Isolated from Ready-to-Eat Lettuce and Gurasa Sold within Kaduna State University (Main Campus), Kaduna State

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study evaluates the antibacterial susceptibility of pathogens isolated from ready-to-eat lettuce and gurasa sold at Kaduna State University, identifying significant health risks associated with these popular foods. The research reveals a high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp, Salmonella spp, and Klebsiella spp, with S. aureus and E. coli being the most common isolates. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved food safety measures and antibiotic resistance management to mitigate potential public health threats. Full Abstract The consumption of ready-to-eat lettuce and gurasa has gained acceptance due to its appealing taste and nutritional value. However, these foods can serve as a vehicle for transmission of pathogens. This study was carried out to assess the antibacterial susceptibility pattern of pathogens isolated from lettuce and gurasa sold at Kaduna State University. Samples were collected from five vendors of gurasa and lettuce. Standard microbiological methods were carried out using a pour plate and a modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method to determine the antibacterial susceptibility pattern. The isolates obtained were examined for morphological and biochemical characteristics. Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp, Salmonella spp, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella spp. were isolated and identified. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent bacterium in this study, having 27.7% in lettuce and 38.4% in gurasa, and Escherichia coli, having 16.6% in lettuce and 30.7% in gurasa. There was no significant difference (P ˃ 0.05) in the total colony counts of bacteria among the samples. Lettuce had the least bacteria count (1.48 x 106 CFU/g), while gurasa had the highest (1.55 x 106 CFU/g). Antimicrobial sensitivity test results showed that 10 S. aureus isolates were resistant to Rocephin (100%), 7 E. coli isolates were resistant to Septrin, Amoxicillin, and Augmentin (100%), 6 Klebsiella spp isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin and Augmentin(100%), 5 Salmonella spp isolates were resistant to Septrin, Amoxicillin and Augmentin (100%) and 3 Bacillus spp were resistant to Rocephin (100%). The high bacterial resistance to antibiotics is of great concern as infections with these organisms could be lethal.

Potential of yeast (<i>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</i>) as feed stabilizer and growth promoter on <i>Clarias gariepinus</i> (Burchell, 1822) fingerlings

This research was carried out to examine the potential of yeast as a fish feed stabilizer and growth promoter on Clarias gariepienus with varying levels of baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisae). Clarias gariepinus fingerlings with mean weight of 2.40 grams fingerlings were obtained from Aliu Farms, Kaduna and transported to the Fishery unit located in the Zoological Garden of the school, Kaduna State University, Kaduna State Nigeria. The fish were acclimatized for two weeks in 60 Liters’ plastic tanks. Fish were stocked at 10 fingerlings per tank containing de-chlorinated tap water in triplicate. Four experimental diets with different inclusion levels of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as follows; Diet I (5%), Diet II (7.5%) Diet III (10%) and Diet IV (12.5%) and the control diet without Saccharomyces cerevisiae were formulated at 40% crude protein. Feed subjected to stability test clearly showed that stability increases with increased level of yeast with Diet IV (12.5%) having the highest at 30 minutes (76%) and 60 minutes (68%). The pelleted feeds were fed to fish at the rate of 5% of the fish biomass throughout the experimental period. The growth response was assessed in terms of daily weight gain, relative weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio. The results showed that diet III (10%) gave the best growth performance with an average weight gain of 2.7 followed by diet IV (12.5%) of average weight gain of 2.39 g when compared to the control diet. Similarly, diet III (10%) recorded the highest survival rate of 80%. Thus, adding baker’s yeast cells into commercial fish feed at 10% improved growth and survival of Clarias gariepinus.

MICROBIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY OF STUDENT HOSTELS AND CANTEENS IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY CAMPUS: RISKS ON STUDENTS’ HEALTH

Microbial air contaminants affect the quality of air we breathe and these microbial air contaminants can settle on body parts, clothes, food etc. which poses a serious threat to human health. Therefore, the level of bacterial contamination in various in-door air of the students’ hostels and canteens of Kaduna State University (KASU) and their antibiotics susceptibility patterns was studied. A total of 44 samples were collected from the rooms (18), toilets (18) of the students hostels and canteen (8) of KASU; using the settle plate method. Gram staining and standard biochemical methods were used to identify the bacterial isolates and antibiotic susceptibility testing was determined by disc diffusion method. The bacteria load was between 1.2 x 103 to 6.7 x 103 cfu/ml3. A total of 30 bacteria isolates were identified, Staphylococcus aureus had the highest (9, 30%) occurrence, followed by Streptococcus spp (6, 20%), Bacillus subtilis and Clostridium spp had similar (4, 13.2%) occurrence, The antibiotic susceptibility testing carried out revealed that the Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria isolates were more susceptible to vancomycin (75%, 43.5%), tetracycline (75%, 47.8%) and gentamicin (50%, 43.5%) while high resistance was observed with chloramphenicol (100%, 73.9%), ceftriaxone (100%, 100%), cefoxitin (100%, 73.9%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (100%, 87%), and trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole (100%, 78%). All the indoor samples were contaminated with pathogenic bacteria and there was high level of multidrug resistance. This is very dangerous to the students’ health because it can be a source of transmission infections and antibiotic resistant bacterial strains.

Prevalence and Antibiogram of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nasal Carriage among Apparently Healthy University Staff and Students in Kaduna, Nigeria

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been frequently implicated in healthcare-associated infections. Hence, the objective of this paper was to investigate the prevalence and antibiogram of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) nasal carriage among apparently healthy University staff and students in Kaduna, Nigeria. A total of 250 nasal swab samples were collected alongside demographic data. Gram staining and biochemical tests were carried out to identify the Staphylococcus aureus. Methicillin-resistance was determined phenotypically using cefoxitin disc. Antibiotics susceptibility testing of the MRSA isolates was carried out using agar diffusion method and the multidrug resistance determined. Out of the 250 nasal samples collected, 41 (16.4%) were confirmed to be S. aureus, out of which 25(61.0%) were methicillin resistant. Students from Faculties of Science and Medicine harboured higher percentages of MRSA (69.2% and 60.0%, respectively) in their nasal cavity. Gentamicin (84%) and ciprofloxacin (72%) were the most active antibacterial agents against the MRSA isolates. High level of resistance was recorded amongst the MRSA isolates to amoxicillin (80.0%), cotrimoxazole (52.0%), erythromycin (32.0%) and streptomycin (32.0%).Multidrug resistance was recorded in 48% of the MRSA isolates. In conclusion, there was a high prevalence of MRSA (61.0%) among Staff and students of Kaduna State University. Irrational use of antibiotics especially in the community and without prescription might be responsible for this.

Awareness of building sustainability: A case of architectural students of Kaduna state university

Sustainability has gained increasing significance within the field of architecture due to the growing urgency caused by climate change. However, despite its paramount importance, many architecture students often lack the necessary preparation to fully integrate sustainable practices into their architectural projects. Consequently, this research aims to investigate the extent of sustainability awareness among architectural students in Nigeria and how effectively they incorporate sustainability principles into their building design projects. To gather data from the university's architectural students, a questionnaire survey was conducted. The assessment of awareness encompassed inquiries about the definition of sustainable building and its potential benefits, while the evaluation of application focused on the utilization of building sustainability principles which are: energy usage, water usage, material usage, occupants' health and environmental impact. 169 filled questionnaires were collected and analysed. The results indicated that higher-level students possess a good understanding of the term “building sustainability” and are well-informed about the characteristics and benefits of sustainable buildings. Regarding the application of sustainable principles, these students frequently incorporate natural ventilation and lighting into their building designs as methods to save energy. However, they tend to overlook factors such as using sustainable materials and generating renewable energy to reduce cooling loads. In terms of water and material usage, most students rarely give consideration to these aspects in their designs. On the other hand, students display a high level of awareness about how their building designs impact both the health of occupants and the environment. The majority consistently take into account occupants' health and environmental effects when designing. The findings from this study highlight the importance of integrating sustainability into architectural education early on, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to incorporate sustainable practices into their future architectural designs.

Screening of Fungal Isolates for Biodegradation Potentials of Low-Density Polyethylene from Selected Dumpsites

Polyethylene is the most commonly used synthetic plastic and poorly degraded in natural environments. This study was designed to evaluate biodegradation potentials of low-density polyethylene by fugal isolates from Station Market, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 20cm using a sterilized hand towel and taken to microbiology laboratory, Kaduna State University. Fungi were isolated and each colony was repeatedly sub-cultured on freshly prepared SDA to obtain pure isolates. Pure separated single colonies were maintained on sterile slants at 4˚C for further investigation. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) sheets were cut into bits and immersed in xylene and boiled for 15 minutes to dissolve and crushed. The LDPE powder was added to a mineral salt medium (MSM) containing salts in 1liter of distilled water after which the fungal isolates were introduced. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier- Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis were used to determine the changes in the polymer bond of LDPE sheet after the biodegradation. The findings shows that Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Brown rot and White rot fungi showed 21.1%, 16.1%, 17.6%, and 18.3% reductions in the polyethylene discs after incubation respective. Therefore, the study concludes that fungal species play a significant role in the degradation of LDPE and can be used in future studies for the degradation of complex plastic materials. Finally, the study recommends that Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus falvus be considered as potential candidates to degrade LDPE.

Radio jingles and the development of healthy eating habits among university students

This study examined how radio jingles affects the development and ability to form good eating habits amongst undergraduate students of mass communication department, Kaduna state university. It looks at how radio jingles might improve the understanding, and encourage the adoption of good eating habits amongst students of mass communication department, thereby raising awareness and understanding on healthy eating habit. The Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) was adopted as the underlying theoretical framework, while the empirical analysis of scholarly articles, books reports that address the influence of radio jingles on healthy eating habit was adopted as the methodology. Amongst other things, the study found that; the exposure of radio jingles in promoting healthy eating habit led to increase in tension amongst mass communication student to engage in healthy eating behavior. The study concludes that; Radio jingles have the potentials to play a significance role in the development and promotion of healthy eating habit among University students. As such it is recommended that collaboration with local radio stations will enhance the wide dissemination of jingles to reach out to a large audience. Thus, efficacy of jingles in the development of healthy eating habit can be maximized by adopting a multi-channel approach, which includes radio broadcasts, social media, and websites.

Effect of processing methods on the proximate and phytochemical constituents of <i>Moringa Oleifera</i> (Lamarck, 1785) leaves

Due to the presence of active phytochemical metabolites, Moringa oleifera a fast-growing deciduous plant provides protein, vitamins, and amino acids that enhance growth and treat illnesses. The aim of the study was to compare the proximate and phytochemical composition of Moringa oleifera leaves after air and sun drying. The leaves were sourced from Millennium City, Kaduna, Nigeria and sent to Kaduna State University's Biological Sciences Department for identification and authentication. A specimen number; KASU/BSH/754, was assigned and recorded. The leaves were divided into two groups and treated to air drying and sun drying after being cleaned in water to remove dust. The leaves were kept in a well-ventilated room at a temperature of 25±2oC for six days. Leaves were also exposed to direct sunshine for 3days. With a mortar and pestle, the treated leaves were pulverized before being analyzed for proximate and phytochemical components using standard techniques. The proximate analysis was evaluated using a method developed by the Association of Analytical Chemist. The proximate analysis of air dried leaves recorded 6.58±0.32 moisture content, 12.09±0.44 ash content, 24.5±0.62 crude protein, 8.70±0.35 crude lipid, 12.5±0.60 crude fibre and 35.7±2.45 carbohydrate. While sundried leaves produced 7.59±0.33 moisture content, 13.76±0.86 ash content, 24.4±0.13 crude protein, 8.98±0.18 crude lipid, 10.7±0.49 crude fibre and 34.6±0.65 carbohydrate. The qualitative analysis of the phytochemical constituents shows that there is high concentration of phytosterol, alkaloid and saponin, moderate concentration of flavonoid and low concentration of tannin for air dried leaves. While sundried leaves produced high concentration of only alkaloid and flavonoid. And low concentration of phytosterol, saponin and tannin. Statistical analysis shows that air drying is the most suitable method of processing Moringa oleifera leaves.

Staff Records Management Practices by Registry Staff: Influence of Institutional Factors in Kaduna State University (KASU) Kaduna, Nigeria

Staff Records Management Practices by Registry Staff: Influence of Institutional Factors in Kaduna State University (KASU) Kaduna, Nigeria

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Predegree Form for Kaduna State University,2022/2023 Admission/ Direct Entry (DE) Form Call 0913-423-4770 Dr Mrs.Anita for more details on Remedial/Transfer form,Remedial/Direct Entry Form,PhD/PgD Form call (0913-423-4770 Mrs Judith (0913)4234770,.This is to inform the general public that the PreDegree Application form 2022/2023 session is out on sale call (0913)423-4770 mrs anita (0913)4234770 now.

Academic Staff Recruitments and Promotions by Human Resources Managers at Nigerian Universities: A Case Study of Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria

This proposed conference paper which bearing the title of: Academic Staff Recruitments and Promotions by Human Resource Managers At Nigeria Universities: A Case Study of Kaduna State University” Consisting of Introduction and two parts. On the introduction: it discusses historical background, aims and objectives, significance of research, research methodology, research problems, literature review. On part one: The paper will examines Human Resources: It’s definition, functions, recruitments and promotions, it’s basis and types. Main types of interviews, short listing and application forms. On part two: The researchers explored the practical aspect of recruitments and promotion procedures done by Human Resource Managers in Kaduna State University (KASU) of Nigeria. In the conclusion the paper includes findings and recommendations. keywords: Human Resources, Appointments, Promotion, Nigeria, Universities, Kaduna, Academics

Experiences and Expectations of Bachelor of Pharmacy Graduates of a Newly Accredited Pharmacy School in Nigeria about Pharmacy Education and Practice

Background: Pharmacy education in Africa continually faces challenges that influence students learning experiences making pharmacy students overwhelmed and anxious about life both in school and after school. Objectives: To explore recent pharmacy graduates’ experiences and expectations from university about the workplace. Methods: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted via a Google survey form that contained open ended questions. Recent Bachelor of Pharmacy graduates from Kaduna State University (KASU) who were undertaking their internship were invited to participate in the interviews to explore their perceptions about pharmacy education and practice based on their expectations and experiences. Data was analysed using simple thematic analysis. Results: Thirteen (13) participants responded to the online interview. Eight (8) themes were generated which include decision and choice of university, expectations of studying pharmacy at the university, experiences at the faculty, expectations after graduating, experiences as an intern pharmacist, perceptions about degree obtained, perception of Pharmacy practice and theory, and suggestions for improvement. Conclusion: The eight (8) themes deduced from the interviews reflect on the expectations and experiences that the recent graduates of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, KASU had regarding pharmacy education and practice. The results could be utilised in improving student teaching and learning and in improving pharmacy education in the school.

LEVEL OF AWARENESS, ACCESS AND USE OF LONG LASTING INSECTICIDAL NETS (LLINs) IN FIVE PUBLIC HEALTH CENTRES WITHIN KADUNA METROPOLIS

A cross sectional study designed to assess the difference in level of Awareness, Access and Use of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) from consenting pregnant women aged between 15 to 40 years attending routine ante-natal clinic sessions at Kaduna State University (Barau Dikko) Teaching Hospital, General Hospital Kawo, Primary Health Care Badarawa, Primary Health Care Angwan Romi and General Hospital Sabon Tasha. A total of 360 questionnaires were distributed, but only 308 returned completed. Also, mosquito samples were collected in 30 randomly selected households of the consenting pregnant women that were within three kilometer radius range of the antenatal clinic for 12 weeks’ period. A one-way ANOVA was conducted using SPSS statistical package version 22. The result revealed that there was no significant difference (P> 0.05) in level of Awareness (92.53%), Access (75.32%) and Use (67.86%) of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) among the pregnant women attending the various ante-natal hospitals/primary health care facilities. A total of 344 larvae samples were encountered and identified as Culex species 259(75.29%) and Aedes species 85(24.71%). Awareness, Access and Use of LLINs is relatively similar; while the mosquito species are vectors of Filariasis, Yellow fever, Dengue fever and can be prevented by the use of LLINs.
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 Key word: Kaduna Metropolis, LLINs Awareness, Access and Use, Mosquito Preventive

COVID-19 pandemic and pharmacy education in a developing country: A case study from Nigeria


 
 
 
 Since March 2020, all schools in Nigeria have been closed to curtail the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This paper presents the case study of the e-learning strategies adopted by Kaduna State University to reduce the educational disruption during these unprecedented times. As the University had no established e-learning resources, there was a need for prompt training of staff in online teaching. The online teaching methods to be adopted came with their fair share of challenges as e-learning activities had not been taking place at the University prior to the emergence of COVID-19. The University, with the full support of the state government, were making plans to ensure a fixed structure for the integration of e-learning into the syllabus. This case study provides some recommendations that could be adopted by similar institutions that have no previous e-learning structures. The COVID-19 pandemic has opened up opportunities to upgrade the educational mode of delivery and shown the need to embrace emerging technologies.
 
 
 

The Role of Librarians as Information Literacy Instructors: A Case of Kaduna State University, Kaduna

Information literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize needed information to possess the ability to locate, evaluate, and use these information ethically. The study assesses information literacy of academic staff in a public university using the role of librarians as its nexus. Training - feedback mechanism was used. Questionnaire was used for data collection which was administered on 104 academic staff who participated in the information literacy programme of Kaduna State University, Kaduna. The data was analyzed descriptively. The study revealed the training session covered what is expected, the trainees stated that the length of the session was right, however, the training was mired by poor Internet services. The study recommends among others, the sufficient Internet bandwidth, alternative power supply by the university management, and support for academic staff participation in information literacy training programmes by the respective heads of departments. Keyword: Information literacy, academic staff, public university, electronic resources DOI: 10.7176/NMMC/91-05 Publication date: July 30th 2020

The Role of Librarians as Information Literacy Instructors: A Case of Kaduna State University, Kaduna

The Role of Librarians as Information Literacy Instructors: A Case of Kaduna State University, Kaduna

EVALUATION OF BLOOD AND HISTOLOGICAL INDICES OF BROILER BIRDS FED DIET CONTAINING MANGO KERNEL, WATERMELON AND PARKIA SEEDS FERMENTED USING LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM

The work evaluated blood and histological indices of broiler birds fed diets containing mango, watermelon and parkia seeds fermented using Lactobacillus plantarum. The experiment was carried out under the supervision of Microbiology department of Kaduna State University with the 4 set of diet containing; no fruits seed inclusion (T1) mango inclusion (T2) watermelon inclusion (T3) and parkia inclusion (T4). 96 birds were used for the experiment which was laid in Randomized Block Design (RBD) having 3 replicates with 12 birds per replicate and fed for 6 weeks after which blood sample was taken for analysis and birds slaughtered for internal organs evaluation. Result obtained showed blood parameter of broiler birds fed diet T3 had highest levels of PVC (78.3%), and Haemoglobin (26%) with impressive Lymphocytes (189%), Platelets (162.6 × 109/l) & Heterophil (13.66%) compared to birds fed the other experimental diets and also the internal organs such as lungs, heart, intestine, spleen, gizzard & kidney of the bird fed T3 diet were all Normal compared to birds fed the others diet. It is therefore concluded that the use of Lactobacillus plantarum in fermentation of watermelon lowered anti nutritional factors and gave broiler birds overall good health. It is therefore recommended that further research be carried out to ascertain the appropriate inclusion level of watermelon seeds that would give the best result.

Hepatitis b and c: an assessment of risk exposure and prevalence among preclinical medical students in Northwestern Nigeria

Background: The risk of transmission of hepatitis B and C (HBV and HCV) infection is of particular concern among medical students training in high endemic regions. In this study,we investigated the risk and prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses among preclinical medical students in a government-owned medical school in northwestern Nigeria.Methods: We employed a cross-sectional studytargeting the whole population of preclinical medical students of Kaduna State University, Kaduna State northwestern Nigeria. Data were collected usinga self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire and blood testing for HBsAg and HCV antibodies using rapid screening kits.Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.Results: A total of 133 students participated, and 79.7% of them had a previous risk exposure to injuries by sharps. The seroprevalence for HBV and HCV was 0.8% for both infections. Complete HBV vaccination uptake (3 doses)before enrolment in medical school was 18.8%. The knowledge that HBV infection is preventable was a significant determinant for the previous testing for hepatitis B and C.Conclusion: Risk exposure to injuries by sharps was high in preclinical students. But their seroprevalence for both hepatitis B and C were low. Keywords: Hepatitis B and C viruses;prevalence; medical students;sharp injuries

Assessment of Students’ Academic Performance Using Admission Entry Requirements under the Computer-Based Test and Paper-Pencil-Based Test in Kaduna State University, Kaduna – Nigeria

Assessment of Students’ Academic Performance Using Admission Entry Requirements under the Computer-Based Test and Paper-Pencil-Based Test in Kaduna State University, Kaduna – Nigeria