ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
). Did the Price-Related Reforms in Ghana’s Cocoa Sector Favour farmers?

It is generally hypothesized in the innovation systems literature that institutions can create production incentives for farmers. This paper examines whether the introduction in 1984 of the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) in Ghana's cocoa sector has improved the transmission of world prices to farmers. We test how fast and to what extent world prices have been transmitted, and also address the stability of the prices received by cocoa farmers. For the period 1960–2011, the results were as follows: (1) the production of cocoa beans depended positively on the prices farmers received and negatively on price variance; (2) the establishment of the PPRC provided higher prices for farmers; and (3) the PPRC's use of the flexible freight on board (FOB) price-setting rule resulted in a better price transmission than the employed cost-plus-margin approach. However, under the FOB price-setting rule, producer price variance rose sharply. We conclude that, although FOB pricing mechanisms are often recommended for markets where prices are institutionally determined, stabilization policies should be factored in to protect farmers against international price fluctuations.

Source: UG
Did the price-related reforms in Ghana's cocoa sector favour farmers?

It is generally hypothesized in the innovation systems literature that institutions can create production incentives for farmers. This paper examines whether the introduction in 1984 of the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) in Ghana's cocoa sector has improved the transmission of world prices to farmers. We test how fast and to what extent world prices have been transmitted, and also address the stability of the prices received by cocoa farmers. For the period 1960-2011, the results were as follows: (1) the production of cocoa beans depended positively on the prices farmers received and negatively on price variance; (2) the establishment of the PPRC provided higher prices for farmers; and (3) the PPRC's use of the flexible freight on board (FOB) price-setting rule resulted in a better price transmission than the employed cost-plus-margin approach. However, under the FOB price-setting rule, producer price variance rose sharply. We conclude that, although FOB pricing mechanisms are often recommended for markets where prices are institutionally determined, stabilization policies should be factored in to protect farmers against international price fluctuations. © 2014 © 2014 Taylor & Francis.

Source: UG
Die S.Prache Der Guang in Togo Und Auf Der Goldkuste Und Funf Andere Togosprachen

Wahrend meines letzten Aufenthaltes in Togo im Jahre 1907’ habe ich mehrero Sprachen aus dem Schutzgebiet und aus N achbarlandern aufgenommen. Eine von ilmen, das Lefana, habe ich im J ahrgang XIII Abtoilung III del' Mitteilungen des Seminars fur Orientalische Sprachen (Berlin 1910) veroffentlicht: Die Lefanasprache in Togo, die zweite in d cr Zeitschrift fur Eingeborenensprachen Band XI Heft 3, (Berlin 1921) unter dem Titel: Ein Beitrag zur Kenntnis des Zarma-Songai am Nig er ; einigo weitere hoffe ich in dem 1922 erscheinendcn Band e del' Mitteilungen des Seminars fur Orientalische Sprachen hcrausgeben zu kormcn. Don Haupttcil m einer Aufnahmen von Togosprachen lege ich zusammen mit dem Guan g in di esem Buche vor. Die Umstand e machten es nicht moglich, ausreichendes Material zu einer erschopfendon Darstellung zu gewinnen. Da abel' die meisten dieser Sprachen bisher nul' unzureichend bekannt gewesen sind, ist die vorliegende Sammlung doch geeignet, die linguistische Kenntnis diesos an Sprachon besonders roichen Gebietes zu erweitern uncl die Sprachen nach ihrer Zugehorigkeit zu grotleren Gruppen zu bostimmen. Soweit schon Veroffentlichungen vorlagen, habe ich diese in den V okabularicn unter Quellenangabe mit verwertet, um dadurch fur cine spatere Laut- und W ortvcrgleichung moglichst breite und sichel'e Unterlagen zu schaffen. Del' Bearbeitung des Guang liegen autler meinen eigenen auch fremdo handschriftliche Aufnahmen zugrundo, die an ihrom Ort genannt werden. Samtliche sechs hier behandelten Sprachen zahlen zu den sudanischen Klassenspl'achen, d. h. es sind Sudanspl'achen mit oiner durch AHixe gebildeten Klasseneinteilung und Mehrzahlbildung del' Hauptwol'tel'. Nach del' SteHung der Affixe gehoron sie drei Gruppen an: 1. Guang und AhlQ sind Prafixsprachen. Das AhlQ ist Glied einor Sprachengruppe im sUdlichen Togo, die ich nach S t ru c k s V orschlag als Sprachen del' Restvolker in Togo odeI' kurz als R 0 s ts sprachen bezeichne. Ihnen gehoren autler dem AhlQ und dem erwahnten Lefana noch an: Avatime, Nyangbo-Tafi, Logba, Likpo, Santrokofi, Akpafu, Bowli, Adele, Boro (in Tapa undW orawora), etwas ferner stehen KpOS80 und Kebu (odeI' Kogboriko).

Source: UG
Diet Modelling in the Development of a Healthy Diet for the Ghanaian Population

Diet modelling is one of the important steps in developing food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs). However, this component remains uncommon in the FBDGs of many low-and middle-income countries. A diet modelling package (DietSolve) provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) was used to formulate a healthy diet based on estimating the daily proportions of food groups that best meet the dietary goals established for the FBDGs for Ghana. Input data for the modelling included a list of commonly eaten foods across the agreed food groups, nutrient and energy content of the foods, current energy and nutrient consumption, and energy and nutrient constraints linked to the dietary goals, as determined by the FBDG multi-Sectoral Technical Task Team (MTTT). The modelling was based on assumptions and constraints including a total daily dietary energy target of 2000 kcal/day; the percentage contribution (energy targets) of the macronutrients as follows: carbohydrates (55-70%), protein (10-20 %), and fat (20-30%) to the total energy target; and calcium (1100 mg/day), iron (20 mg/day), and zinc (11 mg/day) constraints. The situation analysis and evidence review carried out as a prior step guided the diet modelling constraints. Energy contributions were also set for a serving of each food group. The final recommendations were based on food groups with each food group consisting of a variety of commonly consumed foods. The total weight of the optimized diet was estimated at 1514 g/day, including 144g/day of animal-source foods, 41.5g/day of discretionary choices, 226g/day of fruit, 227g/day of vegetables, 6g/day of healthy fats and oil, 198g/day of legumes, nuts, and seeds, and 672g/day of staples. This food group composition will provide an estimated 2639 kcal/day, a deviation of about 32% above the energy target set, made up of ~59% from carbohydrates, ~15% from protein and ~25% from fat, and meeting/exceeding the micronutrient targets set. The Optimised diet is healthier compared to the present dietary patterns of the population; its lower ASF component is known to impact less on the environment.

Source: UG
Dietary Behaviors and Portion Sizes of Black Women Who Enrolled in SisterTalk and Variation by Demographic Characteristics

Objective: To describe the dietary behaviors of black women who enrolled in the SisterTalk weight control study. Design: Baseline data collected via telephone survey and in-person screening. Setting: Boston, Massachusetts and surrounding areas. Participants: 461 black women completed the baseline assessments. Main Outcome Measures: Measured height and weight; self-reported demographics, risk factors, and dietary variables including fat-related eating behaviors, food portion size, and fruit, vegetable, and beverage intake. Analysis: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) models with food habits questionnaire (FHQ) scores as the dependent variable and demographic categories as the independent variables; ANOVA models with individual FHQ item scores as the dependent variable and ethnic identification as the independent variable. Results: More than 60% reported eating < 5 servings of fruits and vegetables/day. Self-reported portion sizes were large for most food items. Older age, being born outside the United States, living without children, and being retired were significantly associated with a higher prevalence of fat-lowering behaviors. The frequency of specific fat-lowering behaviors and portion size also differed by ethnic identification. Conclusions and Implications: The findings support the need for culturally appropriate interventions to improve the dietary intake of black Americans. Further studies should examine the dietary habits, food preparation methods, and portion sizes of diverse groups of black women. © 2009 Society for Nutrition Education.

Source: UG
Dietary behaviours in the context of nutrition transition: a systematic review and meta-analyses in two African countries

Objective: To synthesise evidence of urban dietary behaviours (macronutrients, types of foods, dietary diversity and dietary practices) in two African countries in relation to postulated changes in the context of nutrition transition. Design: Systematic review and meta-analyses, including six online databases and grey literature, 1971–2018 (Protocol CRD42017067718). Setting: Urban Ghana and Kenya. Participants: Population-based studies of healthy adolescents and adults. Results: The forty-seven included studies encompassed 20 726 individuals plus 6526 households. Macronutrients were within WHO-recommended ranges: mean energy intake was 1867 kcal/d (95 % CI 1764, 1969) and the proportions of macronutrients were carbohydrate 61·2 % (58·4, 64·0), fat 25·3 % (22·8, 28·0) and protein 13·7 % (12·3, 15·1). The proportion of population consuming fruit and vegetables was 51·6 %; unhealthy foods, 29·4 %; and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), 39·9 %. Two-thirds (68·8 %) consumed animal-source proteins. Dietary diversity scores were within the mid-range. Meal patterns were structured (typically three meals per day), with evidence lacking on snacking or eating out. Conclusions: Population-level diets fell within WHO macronutrient recommendations, were relatively diverse with structured meal patterns, but some indications of nutrition transition were apparent. The proportion of population consuming fruit and vegetables was low compared to healthy-eating recommendations, and consumption of SSBs was widespread. A paucity of evidence from 1971 to 2010 precluded a longitudinal analysis of nutrition transition. Evidence from these two countries indicates which aspects of dietary behaviours may be contributing to increasing overweight/obesity, namely a low proportion of population consuming fruit and vegetables and widespread consumption of SSBs. These are potential targets for promoting healthier diets

Source: UG
Dietary diversity and preferences among pregnant women and its association with anaemia

Purpose – This study aims to assess the dietary choices of pregnant women and their relationship with their anaemia status. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed-method study comprising a survey and three focus group discussions (FGDs). The survey included 380 adult pregnant women with data collected on food choices, preferences and haemoglobin (Hb) status. Findings – More than 50% of women in the study had Hb concentration < 11.0 g/dl; mean Hb was 10.24 g/dl (SD ¼ 1.59). Univariate analysis was used to generate descriptive tabulations for socio-demographic characteristics of respondents, dietary choices for women and anaemia status. T-test and bivariate analysis between dietary diversity score of the women among the food groups consumed as well as their anaemia (Hb) status. This showed that women with high dietary diversity scores had improved Hb status (P ¼ 0.003), and those who consumed meat and fish, as well as dark leafy vegetables, had significantly high diversity scores (P ¼ 0.031 and P ¼ 0.049). Thematic analysis was used for analysing qualitative data. Research limitations/implications – The sample used in the study is unlikely to be fully representative of pregnant women in the Accra Metropolis. In addition, this study used a cross-sectional study design, making it difficult to establish causal associations between nutritional status and food choices of pregnant women. It does not also show variation in dietary practices by season of the year. The scope of the study did not allow for a detailed analysis, and this should be considered in future studies. Also, the study did not explore an obstetric factor like past bleeding history as well as the menstrual cycle of these pregnant women, as these factors are likely to interfere with the anaemia status of the pregnant women. Originality/value – This paper contributes significant value by specifically focusing on and clarifying the complex relationship between dietary choices and anaemia among pregnant women. It also provides insights into the distinct dietary patterns and preferences of pregnant women, which may be contributing to the high prevalence of anaemia. The results of the study can inform the development of localized, evidence-based interventions to address this critical public health concern, ultimately leading to improved maternal and foetal health outcomes.

Source: UG
Dietary Diversity and Undernutrition in Children Aged 6–23 Months in Sub-Saharan Africa

Dietary diversity plays a major role in the health status of children. However, evidence on its crucial role on children’s health status remains inconclusive in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In this study, we examined the association between dietary diversity and undernutrition among children aged 6–23 months in SSA. We pooled data from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys of 32 countries in SSA from 2010 to 2020. A sample of 48,968 mother-child pairs of children within the ages of 6–23 months and mothers aged 15–49 years were included in this study. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was carried out to examine the association between dietary diversity and stunting, wasting, and underweight. The results were presented as crude odds ratios (cOR) and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with their 95% confidence intervals. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. The overall prevalence of minimum dietary diversity was 25.1%, with South Africa recording the highest prevalence (43.9%) and Burkina Faso recording the lowest prevalence (5.6%). The highest prevalence of stunting was recorded by Burundi (51.8%) while the lowest prevalence was found in Ghana (13.6%), with an overall regional prevalence of 28.6%. For wasting, prevalence from all countries was found to be 9.4%. South Africa recorded the lowest prevalence of wasting (2.1%) while Niger recorded the highest prevalence (27.3%). Lastly, the prevalence of underweight ranged from 5.3% in South Africa to 41.8% in Niger, with an all-country prevalence of 16.4%. Children who had adequate minimum dietary diversity had 12% less likelihood of being stunted (aOR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.83, 0.94), compared to those who had inadequate minimum dietary diversity. Having an adequate minimum dietary diversity significantly lowered the risk of underweight among children by 17% (aOR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.77, 0.91). Having an adequate minimum dietary diversity was associated with 13% reduced odds of wasting among children (aOR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.78, 0.97), compared to those who had inadequate minimum dietary diversity. This study highlights the significant association between minimum dietary diversity and stunting, wasting, and underweight among 6–23 month-old children in SSA. There is an urgent need for additional nutrition-specific interventions and strengthening of existing interventions aimed at improving infant and young child feeding practices, including complementary feeding practices among children aged 6–23 months in the 32 countries in SSA. Such interventions should focus more on countries where the prevalence of adequate minimum dietary diversity was low and undernutrition was high.

Source: UG
Dietary intake and the dynamics of stress, hypertension and obesity in a peri-urban community in Accra

Objectives: This study intends to investigate the association between dietary intake, stress and prevalence of chronic diseases. Design and Setting: The study was a cross-sectional design conducted in two poor peri-urban communities in Accra. Participants and outcome measures: A total of 90 households each with a male and female between the ages of 18 and 45 years were sampled, and their socio-demographic status, anthropometric measurement and fasting blood sugar were assessed. Blood pressure was measured and chronic stress/ anxiety was determined using the trait and state inventory (T-stai) questionnaire. Three days repeated 24-hour dietary recall was also done. Analysis of variance and linear regression analysis were used in data analysis. Results: About 28% of the subjects were hypertensive and 55.5% had high chronic stress. Hypertension was higher in males (32.2%) than females (24.4%) (p=.023) whiles stress was higher in females (60.9%) than males (50.0%) (p=.017). Hypertensive subjects recorded higher stress (51.02%) and hypertension was more prevalent in subjects with high stress (32.89%) especially in females (57.14%, p=.036). Hypertension increased with mean age whiles stress decreased with mean age. Hypertensive subjects recorded a significantly higher BMI and sodium intake whiles high stress individuals recorded a lower animal protein but a higher cereal protein intake (p<.05). Chronic stress was associated with intake of low animal protein and high cereal protein. Increased dietary diversity score was associated with decreased obesity prevalence (p<.05). Conclusion: Hypertension, chronic stress, and obesity were linked, and affected by dietary sodium, animal protein, and dietary diversity of subjects respectively.

Source: UG
Dietary intake as a cardiovascular risk factor: a cross-sectional study of bank employees in Accra

Objectives: To determine the dietary and nutrient intakes of bank employees in Accra in relation to recommended dietary intake for the control of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Design: The study was a cross-sectional study. Methodology: A structured validated questionnaire was used to obtain demographics. A 3-day 24-hour dietary recall and usual food intake questionnaire were used to obtain information on food intakes and dietary pattern of the respondents. Food models, household measures and photos of common dishes as well as household cups and measures were used in order to obtain accurate information regarding the types and quantities of foods and beverages consumed. Subjects: Convenient sampling was used to select bank branches while simple random sampling by ballot without replacement was used to select 119 bank employees who consented to participate in the study. Outcome measures: Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. Esha FPro software was used to analyse food nutrients. The nutrient intakes were compared with a standard dietary guideline for adults. Results: Findings showed significant (p < 0.05) differences in mean energy intake between males and females. Also, the bank employees were consuming more fat (32%) compared with the recommended intake. The average intake of dietary sodium and cholesterol was within the recommended intake levels. All the participants in the study had a mean intake of dietary potassium, fibre, fruits and vegetables below the recommended levels. The major cooking oils used in meal preparation were vegetable and palm oil (46%), followed by vegetable oil (31.9%) and palm oil (21.8%). Conclusions: The study evaluated the dietary intake of bank employees, which is an important risk factor for chronic diseases. There is a need to develop plans to provide nutrition education and counselling for adequate nutrient intake and prevention of chronic diseases among bank employees. Layman's summary: Obtaining an adequate diet and avoiding overconsumption of food helps to maintain health. Intake of foods containing high energy and fats without corresponding energy expenditure through physical activity could result in obesity, heart diseases, diabetes and other health challenges. Inadequate intake of micronutrients as well could result in deficiency diseases, and depresses the immune system and health of individuals. Bank employees and all other individuals need to pay attention to what they eat to live a healthy and longer life. Regular physical activity, following the dietary approaches to avoid hypertension and regular medical check-up are essential for cardiovascular health. Strong lay message: Inadequate or overconsumption of nutrients can cause chronic heart diseases.

Source: UG
Dietary intake, forest foods, and anemia in Southwest Cameroon

BACKGROUND: Forest cover has been associated with higher dietary diversity and better diet quality in Africa. Anemia prevalence among women of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa is very high and diet is one known contributor of a high prevalence rate. We investigated whether living in communities with high forest cover was associated with better diet quality and lower anemia prevalence among women of reproductive age in Southwest Cameroon. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 247 women of reproductive age from four forest-based villages (n = 126) and four non-forest villages (n = 121). We assessed the Hemoglobin (Hb) levels, anthropometric status, and diet (by 24-hour recall), as well as anemia-related morbidity and socio-demographic characteristics. Differences between groups were assessed with Pearson's chi-square and independent T-tests. We used a number of multivariate regression models to estimate the impacts of forest proximity on adjusted hemoglobin status of women of reproductive age, as well as to identify the most likely pathway through which forest proximity was important. RESULTS: We found that women living in forest communities had higher adjusted hemoglobin levels (mean hemoglobin concentration 11.10±1.53 g/dl vs.10.68±1.55g/dl; p = 0.03 for women forest and non-forest communities respectively). Moderate to severe anemia prevalence was significantly higher in women living in the non-forest villages compared to women in forest villages (forest 63% vs. 73%; p = 0.04). Compared with women from non-forest villages, women from forest-based villages had consumed significantly more vitamin A rich fruits and vegetables and animal source foods, and more of these came from the forest (as opposed to the farm or purchased sources). We found that the consumption of Gnetum africanum (Eru), a leafy green vegetable that grows in forests of the Congo Basis, was best able to account for the higher levels of adjusted hemoglobin in women in forest communities. CONCLUSION: This study contributes to the growing evidence that in some circumstances, forests make important contributions to diet quality and nutrition. The results of this study suggest that plant foods from the forest may make important contributions to iron intake and reduce the risk of anemia in women. Efforts to prevent forest loss and maintain ecosystem services are warranted to enhance nutrition and health of forest-based communities.

Source: UG