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Abstract Background: The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) has been compared to that of the Internet and printing, evoking both apprehension and anticipation in an uncertain world. Objective: This study aimed to explore the perceptions of medical students and faculty members from ten universities across Nigeria regarding AI. Methods: Using Google Forms and WhatsApp, a cross-sectional online survey was administered to clinical year medical students and their lecturers from ten medical schools representing all the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Results: The survey received 1003 responses, of which 708 (70.7%) were from students and 294 (29.3%) were from lecturers. Both groups displayed an average level of knowledge, with students (Median:4, range −5 to 12) significantly outperforming lecturers (Median:3, range −5 to 15). Social media (61.2%) was the most common form of first contact with AI. Participants demonstrated a favourable attitude towards AI, with a median score of 6.8 out of 10. Grammar checkers (62.3%) were the most commonly reported AI tool used, while ChatGPT (43.6%) was the most frequently mentioned dedicated AI tool. Students were significantly more likely than lecturers to have used AI tools in the past but <5% of both groups had received prior AI training. Excitement about the potential of AI slightly outweighed concerns regarding future risks. A significantly higher proportion of students compared to lecturers believed that AI could dehumanise health care (70.6% vs. 60.8%), render physicians redundant (57.6% vs. 34.7%), diminish physicians' skills (79.3% vs. 71.3%) and ultimately harm patients (28.6% vs. 20.6%). Conclusion: The simultaneous fascination and apprehension with AI observed among both lecturers and students in our study mirrors the global trend. This finding was particularly evident in students who, despite possessing greater knowledge of AI compared to their lecturers, did not exhibit a corresponding reduction in their fear of AI.

The tribological performance of a machined surface is greatly influenced by the quality and reliability of manufacturing processes employed in its creation. In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the effects of various cutting parameters which include cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and ultrasonic vibration amplitude on surface tribological characteristics of C45 carbon steel while employing surface functional indices, namely, Surface bearing index (Sbi), Core fluid retention index (Sci), and Valley fluid retention index (Svi). Ultrasonic elliptical vibration-assisted turning (UEVT) and conventional turning (CT) experiments were carried out to comparatively assess the performance of both cutting methods in terms of the surface functional parameters’ response. The observed variations of the surface functional indices under the influence of the investigated cutting parameters were critically analyzed, and a detailed comparative discussion based on the surface generation mechanisms of both cutting methods is presented. The results obtained from the 3D surface measurement revealed that the variation trends of the surface functional indices in both processing techniques are relatively the same and the UEVC method was found to have higher potential of improving the overall tribological properties of the machined surface compared with the CC method.

Over the past decades, significant improvement has been witnessed in using 3D surface parameter characterization to study machined surfaces’ functional properties. However, the prediction and optimization of these valuable metrics under the influence of various cutting conditions have remained a significant concern. This paper focuses on modeling the effects of cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and vibration amplitude on machining output responses in terms of 3D surface functional parameters, including surface bearing index (Sbi) and core fluid retention index (Sci). Ultrasonic elliptical vibration cutting (UEVC) experiments are performed to evaluate the variation trend of surface functional parameters while adopting the Taguchi analysis and response surface methodology (RSM) approach. The analysis results revealed that the cutting speed has the most significant impact on both (Sbi) and (Sci), followed by feed rate and vibration amplitude in varying rankings between responses; and lastly, the depth of cut, which exhibited the least effect. The validation test result indicated that the developed RSM predictive model was adequate in construction and verification. Finally, the output variables are optimized through the desirability function (CDF) approach. A comparative experimental analysis between conventional cutting (CC) and UEVC was performed under the optimized parameter setting. The comparison result revealed that the functional indices were substantially enhanced under the UEVC method.

Background Academic performance in nursing and midwifery students is a significant feature determining the quality of training and workforce readiness. Although some studies have emphasised the admission process and institutional factors as the main determinants of academic performance, less has been revealed about the association of pre-tertiary educational background with academic performance after the students’ enrolment. Few studies in sub-Saharan Africa have integrated objective pre-tertiary academic indicators with psychological preparedness constructs within a theoretically grounded framework. Objective This study assessed the link between senior high school (SHS) background and academic readiness and the academic performance of nursing and midwifery students in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 345 nursing and midwifery students at a public training institution in Ghana. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire capturing socio-demographic characteristics, SHS background, academic preparedness, institutional support, and academic outcomes. Last-semester grade point average (GPA) was analysed as an ordered categorical outcome using ordinal logistic regression. Results Participants reported moderate levels of academic preparedness, with mean scores of 3.55 (SD = 0.55) for science self-efficacy, 3.38 (SD = 0.54) for language proficiency, 3.63 (SD = 0.49) for study strategies, 3.73 (SD = 0.54) for grit and time management, and 3.68 (SD = 0.58) for institutional support. The ordinal regression model indicated a good general fit to the data (Likelihood Ratio χ² = 374.64, p < .001). When compared to the other two circumstances, the student’s background was found to be a predictor of their academic performance, as the General Science ( p < .001) and Agricultural Science ( p = .010) students’ occurrences of having the better GPA categories were higher than their counterparts. On the other hand, the composite WASSCE scores, science self-efficacy self-reported measures, and academic language proficiency, study strategies, grit, time management, and institutional support were not associated with GPA after adjustment independently. Conclusion Nursing and midwifery students’ steps up in education seem to be achieved mostly through different paths of schooling-level possibilities rather than through individually felt readiness. Additionally, the integration of the results of this study with proper coordination between undergraduate and secondary education will significantly enhance the production of efficient learning outcomes and strengthen the nursing profession.

Background Potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) are associated with adverse health outcomes. The use of PIM among persons living with HIV (PLHIV) could be more problematic due to peculiarities such as antiretroviral toxicity and drug-disease interactions. However, PIM among PLHIV continues to receive little attention. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review and estimate the prevalence of PIM among PLHIV. Methods We searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify relevant studies from 1 January 2014 to 30 June 2024. Studies included were peer-reviewed articles that determined PIM prevalence using validated explicit or implicit tools and provided statistical information on the measured outcomes. Systematic, narrative, and literature reviews as well as case studies, commentaries, and editorials were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool. Subgroup analysis was performed for the different geographic regions, PIM criteria, age, study period, and median numbers of medicines. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Sensitivity analyses, publication bias, and cumulative meta-analysis were conducted. Results A total of 13 articles, including 3200 PLHIV, were included for the systematic review, while meta-analysis was conducted using 8 studies comprising 2546 PLHIV. Most of the studies (46%) employed a cross-sectional study design. 11 out of the 13 studies were conducted in Europe. Most studies reported benzodiazepines as the most common PIM among PLHIV, while hypertension and dyslipidaemia were identified as the most frequent comorbidities. Overall, the pooled prevalence of PIM was 44.8% (95% CI, 32%-58%) using a random-effect model. PIM prevalence among PLHIV was higher among those exposed to polypharmacy (59.3%; CI: 48.9% – 68.9%), those aged > 70 years (44.6%; CI: 24.1–67.1), and post-COVID (48.9%; CI: 39%-59%). Conclusion This study suggests that PIM exposure among PLHIV is a budding issue. Findings from this review advocate for mitigating measures against PIM use. Also, this review contributes data on the use of PIM across different cohorts, creating awareness for policymakers and health managers. Review registration PROSPERO – CRD42024529411.

In this work, a cast alloy of Al–Zn–Mg was developed from aluminium from recycled beverage cans and zinc scraps from battery and the influence of age-hardening heat treatment of the alloy on mechanical properties and reliability analysis on the tensile strength was investigated. The cast Al–Zn–Mg alloy was subjected to age-hardening heat treatment at different times. The aluminium, cast alloy and age-hardened alloy were characterized using XRF, XRD and TEM. The mechanical properties were investigated using a hardness test, impact strength test and percentage elongation. Also, the tensile strength data were subjected to a reliability analysis using Weibull probability distribution. From the results, it shows that 24 h ageing time is enough to have optimum mechanical properties due to an increase in size of the stable MgZn2s phase particles. The reliability analysis shows that the alloy aged at 24 h has tensile strength value (229.72 MPa) in the range reported for Al–Zn–Mg alloy’s temper designations.

Background: Various surgical options have been described for acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) disruption. Dynamic fixation of these fractures is the most favoured option. However, no single modality of treatment has been adjudged to be the best option so far. Purpose: The goal of this study was to present the outcome of internal splintage of acute ACJ disruption using polyester suture without clavicle drilling in our setting. Patients and Methods: This prospective study was done at the National Orthopedic Hospital, Dala, Kano, on those with acute ACJ injuries between January 2016 and June 2021. Forty five patients (36 males and 9 females) had internal splintage of acute ACJ disruption using polyester-5 suture loops around the coracoid process and clavicle without bone drilling. Results: The average age of the patients in this study was 31.51 ± 11.43 years, while the age group with highest frequency was 21-30 years, accounting for 17 (37.8%) of all the patients. The mean pre-operative and post-operative disability (QuickDASH) scores were 80.08 ± 10.75 and 3.23 ± 3.58, respectively. There was a significant difference between pre-operative and post-operative QuickDASH scores with P < 0.001. Conclusion: Internal splintage of acute ACJ dislocation using polyester-5 suture loop without bone drilling is effective and safe.

Introduction Effective communication between healthcare practitioners and patients is essential in ensuring quality healthcare delivery and the attainment of positive health outcomes. However, many healthcare providers lack adequate training to communicate appropriately with patients with hearing loss or hard-of-hearing patients, resulting in avoidable barriers to quality care. Despite the recent integration of sign language training into the curriculum of nursing and midwifery, research examining its application and effectiveness remains limited. Objective This study examines the perceived relevance, teaching methods, and assessment practices of sign language training in Ghana. Method A cross-sectional survey design was employed using a standardised questionnaire to collect data from a convenience sample of 468 s and final-year nursing and midwifery students who had completed a sign language course. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics in IBM SPSS (version 23). Results Students recognised the importance of sign language training in providing care for people with hearing loss and the hard-of-hearing community (mean = 3.85, standard deviation = 1.067) and promoting diversity in healthcare (mean = 3.81, standard deviation = 1.045). However, they expressed limited confidence in applying these skills in practical settings (mean = 2.93, standard deviation = 1.207). While students appreciated the engaging instructional methods (mean = 3.70, standard deviation = 1.126) and the validity of assessment practices (mean = 3.77, standard deviation = 1.010), they emphasised the need for more practical training, timely feedback, and continuous skill development to enhance communication with deaf and hard-of-hearing patients. Conclusion The findings highlight the value of sign language training but reveal gaps in students’ confidence and practical application. Recommendations include increasing practical training opportunities, standardising assessment and feedback mechanisms, and integrating professional interpreters where necessary. Future research should explore the long-term impact of sign language training, evaluate teaching methods, and assess deaf and hard-of-hearing patients’ perspectives on interactions with healthcare professionals. Clinical trial number Not applicable.

Background Young adult women represent a critical population in reproductive health due to their heightened risk of unintended pregnancy and limited socioeconomic opportunities. Contraceptive intention is a key determinant of future contraceptive use; however, limited evidence exists on the factors influencing contraceptive intention among young adult women in Nigeria. This study therefore examined the sociodemographic determinants of contraceptive intention among young adult women in Nigeria, with particular attention to age at first sex and region of residence. Methods This cross-sectional study used data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). A total of 14,210 women aged 15–24 years who reported their contraceptive intention were included, while current contraceptive users were excluded because the analysis focused specifically on contraceptive intention among women who were not currently using any contraceptive method. Descriptive statistics summarized sample characteristics, while bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified determinants of contraceptive intention. Results were presented as crude and adjusted odds ratios (CORs and AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and statistical significance was set at p  < 0.05. Results The prevalence of contraceptive intention among young adult women in Nigeria was 47%. Education showed a strong positive association, as women with tertiary education were more than three times as likely to intend to use contraception compared to those with no education (AOR = 3.51; 95% CI: 2.81–4.40; p  < 0.001). Married women (AOR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.54–0.74; p  < 0.001) and Muslim women (AOR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.45–0.60; p  < 0.001) had significantly lower odds of intending to use contraception. Wealth status showed a positive gradient, while later sexual debut (≥ 20 years) was associated with higher intention (AOR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.05–1.73; p  = 0.02). Regional differences persisted: women in the North West had higher odds (AOR = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.39–1.83; p  < 0.001), while those in the South East, South South, and South West had lower odds of contraceptive intention. Conclusion Education, marital status, religion, wealth, age at first sex, and regional context are key determinants of contraceptive intention among young adult women in Nigeria. Addressing disparities through youth-centered and culturally sensitive family planning interventions that promote education, reproductive health awareness, and economic empowerment could improve contraceptive uptake and reduce unintended pregnancies. However, the cross-sectional nature of the data limits causal interpretation of the observed associations.

Introduction Academic referrals represent a significant challenge in nursing and midwifery education as they indicate student performance and retention weaknesses. However, the factors contributing to academic referrals have been underexplored, hampering efforts to develop effective interventions to support at-risk students. Objective The study examined the demographic, academic, and institutional factors associated with academic referrals among nursing and midwifery students. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 402 nursing and midwifery students. The data were collected for demographic characteristics, academic level, marital status, age, institutional support, language barrier and assessment difficulties. Chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression analyses were utilised to identify predictors of academic referrals. Results Academic level and age were the significant predictors of referrals, with third-year students being 3.38 times more likely to be referred than second-year students (OR = 3.377, p  < .001) and referred students were 0.6 years older than non-referred students (t = -2.157, p  = .032). Females (60.6%) and married students (87.5%) recorded higher referral rates descriptively, though insignificant. Referred students reported greater language barriers (mean = 3.00 vs. mean = 2.69, p  = .002), perceived the language used in exams as less clear (mean = 3.54 vs. mean = 3.79, p  = .003), and reported lower institutional support ( p  = .040 and less helpful feedback (χ² = 11.097, p  = .025). Referred students perceived written theory exams (30.6% vs. 18.7%) and multiple-choice assessments (6.8% vs. 6.0%) as more challenging than non-referred students (χ² = 15.130, p  = .010). Conclusion The findings emphasise the need for targeted interventions to support at-risk students, particularly those in advanced academic levels and older age groups. Strengthening institutional support, addressing language barriers, and improving assessment practices are important to reducing referrals and enhancing student success.