Nnamdi Azikiwe University Journals
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Willingness-to-pay for home delivery of antiretrovirals: A cross-sectional contingent valuation study in Southern Nigeria
No full textHome delivery enhances access to antiretrovirals through differentiated care. This study aimed to assess the willingness-to-pay for home delivery of antiretrovirals by people living with HIV in the southern part of Nigeria using a contingent valuation method. The study is a cross-sectional study and it was conducted in the HIV centers in three federal teaching hospitals located in three regions of the geopolitical zones in the southern part of Nigeria. The study was carried out from April 2022 to March 2023. A total of 945 self-administered questionnaires were distributed to HIV clients, and the willingness to pay was investigated using a contingent valuation technique. The predictors for the willingness-to-pay were explored using multiple logistic regressions. Majority (70%) of the respondents were not willing to pay for the delivery of their antiretrovirals to their homes. Out of those willing to pay, only one-third of them were willing to pay a monthly stipend of $1.3 ± 0.4 for the drug delivery. Furthermore, this study found that respondents employed in the private sector are more willing to pay for the delivery of antiretrovirals to their homes, with an odds ratio of 3.2, a 95% confidence interval of (1.43-7.00), and a p-value of 0.004.The study found that most persons living with HIV in the southern part of Nigeria are unwilling to pay for home delivery of their antiretrovirals, despite receiving free antiretrovirals from healthcare facilities
Phytochemical compounds with HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibition activity – A review
No full textHIV/AIDS is a global public health issue, exacerbated by the inaccessibility of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in some regions. In such settings, herbal therapy can serve as affordable and effective alternative treatment option. Numerous scientific studies have affirmed the inhibitory effects of medicinal plants on several targets in the HIV life cycle, including the HIV type-1 reverse transcriptase (HIV-1 RT) enzyme. To obtain relevant information on the HIV-1 RT inhibition profiles of these medicinal plants, we conducted a literature search for peer-reviewed papers in various scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar on bioactive compounds with HIV-1 RT inhibition. We found 60 different plant species distributed across 24 families and reported their respective geographical distribution, specific parts used, bioactive compounds and HIV-1 RT inhibitory profiles. The family Lamiaceae has the highest number of plants (n=10, 16.7%) with HIV-1 RT inhibitory activity. The classes flavonoids, terpenoids and polyphenolic compounds were found to have the highest number of HIV-1 RT inhibition activity. Herbal therapy is an indispensable treatment option for HIV/AIDS, particularly in many low- and middle-income countries and other resource-constrained settings with limited access to cART
Determination of Timeliness Cost and Muscle Energy Requirement of Nylon String-Blade Mowers in Lawn Maintenance Operations
No full textThis study evaluated the timeliness cost, and muscle energy needs of a nylon string-blade mower, commonly used for small lawn maintenance. It utilized a penalty-based model to quantify the decline in lawn aesthetics, by expressing it as a monetary penalty when mowing is delayed. Aesthetic loss in terms of reduction in lawn appeal caused by excessive grass height, clumping of cuttings, or thatch accumulation were considered in this study, and found to reduce acceptability of the lawn for its intended use. Heart rate, a physiological workload index, was used to estimate muscle energy expenditure based on ergometer calibration, while rate of perceived exertion was used to assess the physiological strain. Results from the study show that the optimal mowing interval was found to be 14 days, with hourly losses of N114.52/ha for early mowing and N890.48/ha for delayed mowing. When accounting for lawn aesthetics losses, the total average mowing cost increased by an hourly amount of N114.52 per hectare for early mowing and N678.55 per hectare for delayed mowing. 40.96 W muscle work rate, corresponding to operator heart rate of 127 bpm was observed for the mowing, and was perceived as a light intensity task. The equivalent sound pressure level recorded at the operator’s ears distance to the exhaust outlet was found to be 62.5 dB during mowing. These were within the recommended safety limits, ensuring that operators are not exposed to excessive work rate or hazardous noise levels. These findings will offer lawn managers minimized cost and safer mowing decisions support
Global Roadmap for Circular Economies: The Integration of Digital Innovation, Governance, and Sustainable Development Goals
No full textThe global shift toward a circular economy offers significant opportunities for sustainable development but also poses key challenges. This article presents a roadmap that integrates digital innovation, governance frameworks, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals to accelerate circular economy adoption worldwide. Critical technologies such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data analytics are identified as enablers for resource tracking, process optimization, and material traceability. The roadmap highlights the importance of policy development, digital infrastructure investment, stakeholder education, and international collaboration, supported by robust monitoring mechanisms. Case studies across manufacturing, logistics, energy, and smart cities illustrate practical applications and scalability. Finally, the article addresses barriers including regulatory gaps, the digital divide, and cultural challenges and offers policy recommendations to foster sustainable, resilient, and inclusive circular economies.
Human-Centric Design Integration in Industry 5.0: A Framework for Resilient Smart Manufacturing
No full textThe emergence of Industry 5.0 marks a paradigm shift from the technology-centric ethos of Industry 4.0 to a more inclusive, human-centric approach, which emphasizes collaboration between humans and intelligent systems. As manufacturing systems evolve into complex cyber-physical ecosystems, the integration of Human-Centric Design (HCD) becomes essential for ensuring not only operational efficiency but also social sustainability, resilience, and adaptability. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework for the integration of HCD principles into smart manufacturing systems, with the aim of fostering resilience and enhancement of worker well-being in the context of Industry 5.0. Through a multidisciplinary synthesis of literature spanning human factors engineering, cyber-physical systems, and organizational design, the study identifies key enablers such as collaborative robotics, AI-driven decision support, ergonomic workplace design, and adaptive human-machine interfaces. The proposed framework emphasizes the co-evolution of human and machine capabilities, promotion of shared autonomy, skill augmentation, and cognitive load management. Furthermore, it outlines mechanisms for embedding ethical considerations, inclusivity, and stakeholder participation into design processes. Case studies and recent empirical research were analyzed to validate the framework’s applicability and to demonstrate its potential in the improvement of system resilience, during disruptions such as supply chain disturbances and workforce shifts. The findings underscore that a human-centric approach not only enhances technical robustness and responsiveness, but also empowers workers, and leads to higher levels of engagement, creativity, and organizational agility. This study contributes to the emerging discourse on Industry 5.0 by offering a structured pathway for aligning advanced manufacturing technologies with human values. The proposed framework serves as a strategic guide for policymakers, engineers, and organizational leaders that aim at building future-ready, human-aligned manufacturing systems
THE PERCEIVED EFFECT OF PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AND ANXIETY ON BEHAVIOURAL ADJUSTMENTS Of SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN AWKA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE.
No full textThe research work examined the perceived effect of parental involvement and anxiety on behavioural adjustments of senior secondary school students in Anambra State.Three research questions guided the study. The survey research design was adopted for this study. Three hundred fifty (350) Senior Secondary School students were randomly selected for this study. The instrument for the study was a researcher designed questionnaire titled “Perceived Effect of Parental Involvement and Anxiety on Student’s Behavioural Adjustments Questionnaire (PEPIASBAQ)” which was on a 4-point Likert scale of SA - Strongly agree; AAgree; D – Disagree; SD - Strongly disagree. The instrument was validated by three experts from faculty of Education Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State. The instrument was tested and gave an overall reliability index of 0.83 which was obtained using the Cronbach Alpha reliability method. Data collected were analysed using the arithmetic mean. The findings of the study revealed that Parental involvement have a positive effect on student’s behavioural of senior secondary school students in Anambra State. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that Schools in Anambra State should develop and implement parental involvement programs, fostering regular communication, progress updates, and collaborative problem-solving
PERCEIVED INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON HEALTH PROMOTION OUTCOMES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN NNAMDI AZIKWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA
No full textThe research work examined the perceived influence of social media on health promotion outcomes among undergraduate students in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. Social media platforms have become essential tools for disseminating health information, raising awareness, and promoting healthy behaviors among youth. However, there is limited research on how undergraduate students engage with these platforms for health purposes. The study assessed the level of social media usage, the health topics explored, and the factors influencing students’ adoption and usage of social media for health promotion outcomes. Guided by four research questions, the study employed a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 200 undergraduate students was randomly selected from a population of 25,000. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled “Undergraduates’ Social Media Habits and Health Promotion Outcomes,” rated on a four-point scale. The instrument yielded a reliability score of 0.77, indicating strong internal consistency. The findings revealed low usage of social media for accessing health information but high levels of engagement with health-related topics and behaviours. Significant factors influencing social media adoption for health promotion were identified, though actual utilization for achieving tangible health promotion outcomes remained low. Based on these findings, the study recommends targeted social media campaigns that promote credible health information. It suggests leveraging social environments by establishing peer-led health groups on platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter to encourage healthier lifestyles. Additionally, workshops and online courses on effectively using social media for health promotion are advised. This research underscores the critical need to enhance health communication strategies and ensure access to credible health sources through social media. 
FACTORS INFLUENCING SELF- MEDICATION AND ITS PREVENTIVE MEASURES AMONG STUDENTS OF NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA
No full textThe study investigated factors influencing self-medication among undergraduate students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. Three research questions guided the study and one hypothesis was tested. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, the population comprised of 1268 students, 204 undergraduate students were sampled using simple random sampling technique and proportionate sampling technique. Instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled Self-medication and Preventive Measures Questionnaire (FISPMQ). The instrument was validated by three experts, two from the Department of Health Promotion and Public Health Education and one from Measurement and Evaluation Department, Faculty of Education Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha coefficient that yielded a coefficient value of 0.78 which makes the instrument reliable. The data collected were analyzed using simple frequency tables while the study hypothesis was tested using one way ANOVA. Findings from the study shows that financial constraints, peer pressure, access to Over The Counter (OTC) drugs, lack of awareness of the dangers of self-medication and adequate knowledge of healthcare and medications are factors influencing self-medication among undergraduate students. The study also found that self-medication leads to frequent health issues or complications in students. Furthermore, the study found that self-medication leads to potential adverse reaction and risk of dependency and abuse among students. Based on these findings, the study recommends among others that university authorities should implement regular awareness programs on the dangers of selfmedication, utilizing campus media and peer support groups to spread information on safe medication practices. 
STRESS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG HEALTH CARE WORKERS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC AT CHUKWUEMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, AWKA.
No full textStress is part of our everyday life and can have life threatening consequences when not managed effectively. This study determined the stress management practices among healthcare workers during COVID-19 Pandemic at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka. Three research questions guided the study and two hypotheses were tested at .05 level of significance. The cross-sectional survey research design was used for the study. The Multistage sampling technique was used to draw a sample of 267 out of 534 Healthcare workers (HCWs). The instrument for data collection was a researcher’s designed questionnaire titled “Stress Management Practices among Healthcare workers during Covid-19 Pandemic”. The data collected were analyzed using frequency and percentages for research questions while the null hypotheses were tested using Chi - square (X2) statistics. The findings of the study revealed among others: thirteen stress management practices HCWs adopted to combat stress during COVID-19 Pandemic. Moreover, the study revealed that there is no significant difference on the stress management practice among male and female HCWs but there is a significant difference on the stress management practice among HCWs of different job types. Based on the findings, the researcher concluded that some stress management practices adopted by HCWs in COOUTH, Awka during Covid-19 pandemic were having sense of control over life, thinking positively, relaxation, taking enough sleep, listening to music, sharing jokes or humour with colleagues, engaging in team work, communicating with people, adequate use of protective devices, avoiding problem situation, understanding the clarity in my job, taking break from work and being proactive. It was also recommended among other things that it is important to emphasize on the need for exercising as a stress management practice among HCWs. Also, Annual leave, maternity leave, casual leave and break periods amidst work, etc should not be denied any job category of worker in the healthcare system to avoid break down in health of the HCWs. 
AN EXAMINATION OF THE MEDICINAL USE OF CANNABIS: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES AND LESSONS FOR NIGERIA
No full textClinical studies have demonstrated many therapeutic benefits of cannabis, which has been used for medicinal purposes for over 6000 years. Despite its curative properties and therapeutic advantages, many countries especially in the Caribbean and even in the West Africa sub-region such as; Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, The Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Islands and Nigeria and Ghana respectively impose strict regulations due to the stigma attached to cannabis associated with its use as a medicine. The majority of these Caribbean and West African countries until recently, forbid the use of cannabis for either recreational or therapeutic purposes and impose severe punishments such as life imprisonment or a long term of years. However, history and modern research show that cannabis was used as a medicine in the past by different societies. Therefore, this article intends to examine the practice of some societies in using cannabis for medicinal purposes and the prospects of finding a legal framework for the control and regulation of the use of cannabis in Nigeria. In achieving the objective, the researcher uses a qualitative and doctrinal research methodology by analyzing previous literature using content analysis and drawing on the legal regime for the use of cannabis in some identified Caribbean countries. The doctrinal methodology was used to examine relevant provisions of the law, while the qualitative approach was also adopted in this article to explore secondary sources of information. The article also explores the prospects for cannabis as a treatment for various medical conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and inflammation. This article provides a comprehensive examination of the medicinal use of cannabis, exploring its therapeutic potential, regulatory frameworks, and challenges associated with its implementation. The article investigates the current state of cannabis research, highlighting its benefits and risks, and discusses the experience of countries that have established medical cannabis programs. The analysis reveals a complex landscape of laws, regulations, and cultural attitudes, with implications for public health, economic development, and human rights. The article identifies key challenges, including regulatory hurdles, lack of standardization, and concerns around safety and efficacy. The findings of this article have significant implications for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers, and contribute to the ongoing debate about legalization and medicinal use of cannabis.