Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic

Diabetes mellitus in Africa is undergoing a rapid epidemiological transition marked by rising prevalence, distinctive clinical phenotypes, and persistent health system and therapeutic challenges. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizes contemporary evidence on the evolving landscape of diabetes across the continent, with particular emphasis on sub-Saharan Africa, and examines the urgent need for context-specific management guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Semantic Scholar, and other indexed databases, covering over 170 million research records. The search strategy addressed epidemiology, phenotype diversity, pathogenesis, therapeutic access, health system barriers, and intervention outcomes related to diabetes in Africa. Of 1,136 identified records, 555 were screened after de-duplication and 424 met eligibility criteria. Eighty-five high-quality and thematically relevant studies were included in the final synthesis. Diabetes prevalence in Africa is projected to rise from approximately 19 million to 47 million adults by 2045, representing the highest proportional global increase (129%) in sub-Saharan Africa. African diabetes exhibits distinct characteristics, including earlier onset (often before 50 years), lower body mass index at diagnosis, and predominant beta-cell dysfunction rather than classic insulin resistance. Atypical forms, such as ketosis-prone diabetes and malnutrition-related diabetes (now classified as Type 5 diabetes), affect 5–15% of patients in studied cohorts. Type 1 diabetes in Africa also differs from Western patterns, with later onset, lower autoantibody positivity (20–60%), and distinct HLA associations. Therapeutic gaps are substantial: insulin availability averages 33% across facilities, HbA1c testing is accessible in fewer than 25% of health centers, and two-year retention in care ranges from 30–50%. Workforce shortages are severe, with only 23% of facilities in Ghana reporting trained diabetes specialists. Existing clinical guidelines inadequately address African dietary patterns, prevalent comorbidities such as HIV and tuberculosis, and major resource limitations. Complications remain frequent, including a 13% prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers and extremely poor glycemic control among youth with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes in Africa presents unique phenotypic and systemic challenges distinct from Western contexts. Persistent therapeutic gaps and guideline mismatches contribute to poor outcomes. Urgent development of context-specific management frameworks, strengthened health systems, culturally adapted interventions, and innovative financing strategies is essential to address this escalating public health burden.

The present study investigated how sex influences the length–weight relationship (LWR) and condition factor (K) of Heterotis niloticus inhabiting the Kalgwai Reservoir in Northwestern Nigeria from January 2022 to December 2023. A total of 120 specimens, comprising equal numbers of males and females, were randomly collected from three sampling stations using a combination of gill nets (25–50 mm mesh sizes), cast nets and longlines. Total length and body weight were recorded following established biometric procedures, and sex was identified through gonadal examination. Analysis of the log-transformed length–weight data revealed that males had b-values ranging from 0.35 to 1.21, with a mean of 1.21, whereas females exhibited a wider range of 0.03 to 1.95 and a higher mean value of 1.95. The combined dataset produced an average b of 1.42. In all cases, the regression coefficient (b) was below the theoretical cube value (b = 3), signifying negative allometric growth, where increase in length outpaces gain in weight. The Fulton’s condition factor (K) differed between sexes, with males averaging 0.70 and females 1.20, while the overall mean stood at 0.90. The relatively higher K values recorded in females indicate a better physiological state, possibly linked to energy accumulation for reproduction, whereas the low values observed in some males point to potential nutritional stress. These outcomes emphasize the importance of sex in determining the growth pattern and well-being of H. niloticus and provide essential reference data for the management and aquaculture development of the species within the Kalgwai Reservoir.

This study examines the long- and short-run effects of monetary policy instruments on inflation in Nigeria from 1981 to 2024 using annual time series data and ARDL modelling approach. The bounds test confirms a stable long-run relationship. The findings reveal a persistent underlying inflationary trend of 9.35% annually, underscoring the role of structural factors. In the long run, only the liquidity ratio exerts a significant, negative influence on inflation, confirming its potency as a direct monetary control tool. The monetary policy rate, while correctly signed, is statistically insignificant, indicating a weakened interest rate transmission channel. Counterintuitively, the Treasury bill rate shows a marginally significant positive long-run association with inflation, suggestive of fiscal dominance and deficit monetization. Short-run dynamics are characterized by strong inflationary inertia and a complex, positive impact of the lagged liquidity ratio. The error correction term of -0.96 indicates a rapid 96% adjustment to equilibrium. The study concludes that while the liquidity ratio is effective for long-term inflation control, achieving price stability in Nigeria requires complementary fiscal and structural reforms to address foundational pressures and enhance monetary policy transmission.

The transition to a circular economy for hydrocarbons demands advanced recycling paradigms for waste lubricant oil (WLO). This study presents a holistic, multi-modal investigation of an intensified sequential process integrating acid pre-treatment with methanol extraction for WLO valorization. To complement conventional analysis, High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry was employed to deconvolute the molecular-level transformation, identifying and quantifying the removal of more than 500 distinct contaminant species. The mechanism of acid treatment was elucidated through in-situ FTIR spectroscopy, which quantified second-order reaction kinetics (k = 2.3 × 10⁻³ L mol⁻¹ s⁻¹) for metal-carbonate dissociation. Density Functional Theory calculations provided a quantum-mechanical rationale for solvent efficacy, revealing strong, spontaneous binding between methanol and key oxidation products (e.g., ΔGbind= -5.2 kcal/mol with stearic acid). Microwave-assisted extraction enhanced process efficiency, reducing processing time by 95.8 % and increasing yield by 8 %. The reclaimed oil exceeded key API Group I specifications, with a kinematic viscosity of 16.49 cSt at 100°C, a flash point of 240°C and a total acid number of 0.05 mg KOH/g. A comparative Life Cycle Assessment demonstrated a 65% reduction in global warming potential compared to virgin base oil production. This work provides a validated framework for sustainable WLO valorization by coupling atomistic-level mechanistic insights with a validated, intensified process.

Concrete compressive and tensile strength are critical for ensuring the safety and durability of structural elements. In this study, locally sourced jute fibre and ground waste glass were incorporated into grade 25 concrete to enhance its performance and sustainability. Mix proportions were designed and optimized using the Central Composite Design (CCD) approach in Design Expert software. The choice of 25 MPa was based on its wide application in structural concrete in Nigeria and globally, ensuring relevance for common construction practices. Ground waste glass was used as a partial cement replacement, while jute fibre was introduced as reinforcement. The study revealed that a maximum compressive strength of 27.85 N/mm2 was obtained with 0% jute and 7.5% glass replacement, whereas the minimum of 11.78 N/mm2 occurred with 0.75% jute and 15% glass. For tensile strength, the maximum value of 3.59 N/mm2 was recorded at 0% jute and 7.5% glass, while 1.5% jute with 15% glass gave the lowest value (2.34 N/mm2). The use of CCD allowed accurate prediction of responses with high R2 values, confirming the reliability of the model. The novelty of this research lies in optimizing the combined effect of natural fibre and recycled glass using statistical modeling to achieve sustainable concrete. This blend has potential applications in low- to medium-strength structural elements such as blocks, slabs, and pavement layers. Furthermore, the study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9, 12, and 13 by promoting innovation, sustainable material use, and reduced carbon emissions.

This study investigates the impact of modern technological solutions on attendance management among non-academic staff in Nigerian polytechnics. In light of persistent inefficiencies associated with traditional attendance systems, this research explores how digital tools, automation systems, mobile applications, and biometric systems contribute to enhancing accuracy, accountability, and efficiency in managing staff attendance. The study adopts a quantitative research design using primary data collected in 2023 from a sample of 308 non-academic staff across selected Nigerian polytechnics. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed through SmartPLS 4 software to analyze the path coefficients, T-statistics, p-values, coefficient of determination (R²), predictive relevance (Q²), and other statistical indicators. Findings indicate that each of the modern solutions significantly influences attendance management, with biometric systems and digital tools exerting the strongest effects. The results underscore the critical importance of transitioning from manual to digital attendance systems in educational institutions to optimize staff management and institutional performance. This research contributes empirical evidence to support administrative reforms in human resource management and provides practical implications for institutional policy implementation in the Nigerian educational context.

The study examines the moderating effect of audit quality on the relationship between board attributes and tax avoidance of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria. Data for the study were sourced solely from the secondary sources extracted from annual reports and accounts of the sampled industrial goods firms in Nigeria. The sample size is 11 industrial goods firms out of the 13 industrial goods firms listed on the floor of Nigeria Exchange Group. Panel regression analysis was applied to analyse the data. The study reveals that board size and board independence exert positive and insignificant effects on the cash effective tax rate (CETR). It also finds that gender diversity and board financial expertise depict negative and significant effects on the CETR. The study further reveals positive and significant moderated effects of audit quality on the CETR. The paper recommends that industrial goods firms in Nigeria should conduct a comprehensive assessment of the board size in relation to the firms’ operational complexity and strategic needs and evaluate the effectiveness of board committees and subcommittees in managing tax related matters. Industrial goods firms in Nigeria should also strengthen the roles and influence of independent directors in strategic tax avoidance decisions to enhance objectivity, transparency and effectiveness of each director. Industrial goods firms and Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) should establish a structured nomination process that encourages the inclusion of qualified female directors in the board selection process and consider appointing directors with a strong background in taxation, finance, and accounting profession.

BackgroundFood labelling policy has become increasingly important in public health due to the rising burden of diet-related diseases. This study examines the compliance of pre-packaged foods sold in Nigerian markets with national food labelling guidelines.MethodsA total of 883 pre-packaged foods from broad categories were purposively enlisted from selected Nigerian stores and supermarkets. Food label information was evaluated against eleven (11) requirements stipulated by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and components of the International Network for Food and Obesity/Non-communicable Diseases Research, Monitoring and Action Support (INFORMAS). Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were applied to assess compliance levels and their associated determinants.ResultsThe majority (>70.0%) of the pre-packaged foods complied with key labelling requirements except quantitative ingredient declaration (39.1%) as well as nutrient declaration of priority (56.5%), and non-priority (38.1%) nutrients. Overall, a mean food label compliance score of 9.19 + 1.43 out of a possible 11.0 was recorded. The inclusion of supplementary nutrition information and the declaration of non-priority nutrients in pre-packaged foods were each significantly (p < 0.01) associated with approximately a 0.50-point higher compliance score with national food labelling guidelines than pre-packaged foods lacking this information.ConclusionHigh compliance with the guidelines was reported; however, the declarations of nutrient and quantitative ingredients were not sufficiently met. Prioritizing food labelling in policy formulation, alongside targeted support for food manufacturers particularly local producers will help address existing gaps across the food compliance spectrum.

Hydatidosis, caused by the larval stage of Taenia and Echinococcus species, is a significant zoonotic disease affecting livestock and humans, leading to public health concerns and economic losses in endemic regions. A cross-sectional study conducted from July to August, 2024 at the Katsina Metropolitan abattoir using purposeful sampling approach to determine the prevalence and hydatid cysts in small ruminants. A total of 250 sheep and goats comprising 74 sheep and 176 goats, presented for slaughter at the abattoir daily were considered as subjects for the study. Among these, 87.9% of sheep and 66.5% of goats were female. The overall prevalence of hydatid cysts was 12.8%, with 9.5% of sheep and 14.2% of goats infected. Prevalence by sex showed 2.0% in males and 10.8% in females, with no significant difference (p &gt; 0.05). Age-specific prevalence ranged from 1.6% in animals 6–12 months to 6.4% in those 25–36 months, with no significant differences amongst age groups (p &gt; 0.05). Similarly, there was no significant difference in breed-specific prevalence, with Balami and Yankasa sheep showing 9.5% and 9.4%, and Red Sokoto, Kano Brown, and Sahel goats showing 17.5%, 9.1%, and 15.4%, respectively. Cyst distribution was significantly higher (p &lt; 0.05) in intestines (80.0%) and livers (42.9%) in both species. Fertility of cysts was 100% in goat lungs and 75.0% and 66.6% in sheep and goat livers, respectively. Viability was 25.0% in sheep and 50.0% in goats, with no significant difference (p &gt; 0.05). The study concludes that sheep and goats in Katsina are infected with Taenia parasites, resulting in fertile and viable cysts of public health and economic concern. Recommendations include further studies to identify tapeworm species and public education on disease prevention to mitigate health and economic losses in the region.