ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Green Supply Chain Learning And Green Innovation: The Moderating Role Of Market Turbulence (A Survey Of Firms In The Retail Sector In Greater Accra)

Green supply chain learning can lead to green innovation by providing companies with the knowledge and resources they need to develop new, more sustainable solutions. By working together, companies can create a more sustainable supply chain that benefits the environment and the bottom line. This thesis investigates the relationships between green supply chain learning and green innovation, considering the moderating role of market turbulence. The objectives of the study were to examine the moderating role of market turbulence on the relationship between supply chain learning and green innovation. A quantitative methodology was adopted, with survey data collected from 200 retail firms in Ghana. SMART-PLS was used to analyze the data. Structural equation modelling analysis showed green customer learning and significantly influence green innovation. Green supplier learning was also found to negatively impact green innovation. Moreover, market turbulence has a positive moderation effect on the relationship between green supply chain learning and green innovation. The study recommends managers revisit their supplier learning strategies with a critical eye. Instead of solely focusing on enhancing problem-solving capabilities, consider a more holistic approach. Also, Supply chain managers should recognize the immense value of well-informed and engaged customers in driving sustainable innovation efforts. Actively involve customers in the innovation process by seeking their feedback, preferences, and ideas. Moreover, Supply chain managers should acknowledge that market conditions can significantly impact the effectiveness of supplier-driven innovation. In turbulent markets, considering recalibrating innovation strategies is necessary.

Source: KNUST
Green supply chain learning and green innovation: the moderating role of market turbulence(a survey of firms in the retail sector in greater Accra

Green supply chain learning can lead to green innovation by providing companies with the knowledge and resources they need to develop new, more sustainable solutions. By working together, companies can create a more sustainable supply chain that benefits the environment and the bottom line. This thesis investigates the relationships between green supply chain learning and green innovation, considering the moderating role of market turbulence. The objectives of the study were to examine the moderating role of market turbulence on the relationship between supply chain learning and green innovation. A quantitative methodology was adopted, with survey data collected from 200 retail firms in Ghana. SMART-PLS was used to analyze the data. Structural equation modelling analysis showed green customer learning and significantly influence green innovation. Green supplier learning was also found to negatively impact green innovation. Moreover, market turbulence has a positive moderation effect on the relationship between green supply chain learning and green innovation. The study recommends managers revisit their supplier learning strategies with a critical eye. Instead of solely focusing on enhancing problem-solving capabilities, consider a more holistic approach. Also, Supply chain managers should recognize the immense value of well-informed and engaged customers in driving sustainable innovation efforts. Actively involve customers in the innovation process by seeking their feedback, preferences, and ideas. Moreover, Supply chain managers should acknowledge that market conditions can significantly impact the effectiveness of supplier-driven innovation. In turbulent markets, considering recalibrating innovation strategies is necessary.

Source: KNUST
Green space depletion in Ghana’s Urban Settlements: a case of Kumasi

Green spaces constitute an integral part of an urban environment. Unfortunately, Kumasi, Ghana‘s second largest and fastest growing city and the ―Garden City of West Africa‖ has lost much of its green spaces over time. Various human activities created in the city in an attempt to attain a higher level of development have led to the depletion of its green spaces. Green spaces are constantly being lost to other land uses such as residential, educational and circulatory and little is being done to remedy the situation. The study sought to give a broad discussion on the causes of green space depletion in Ghanaian urban settlements with particular reference to Kumasi and propose pragmatic measures to ameliorate the situation. The study adapted the case study approach and utilized publications that related to urban green spaces in Ghana and Africa. The study also made use of the consultative approach in order to have diverse views on the research topic. The data gathered were edited and coded. They were then analysed using statistical software known as Statistical Package for So cial Scientist (SPSS) version 16. Some of the major findings of the study were that, green space depletion in Kumasi is caused by factors such as: high land rent for other land uses, laxity in the enforcement of development controls and low priority to green spaces by city authorities. The study also proposed among other measures that there should be an intensive public education on the benefits of urban green spaces in the City. The general public and all stakeholders of urban green space should put in a concerted effort towards the preservation of the green spaces in the City to restore its ―Garden City‖ image.

Source: KNUST
Green supply chain management and green performance; the moderating effect of radical green strategy

This study examines the deployment of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices and its effect on green performance in Ghana, an emerging economy. The main problem of the study emanates the fact that extant studies only consider the relationships among GSCM practices within the context of organisational or business strategy but have not been much explored in the Sub-Saharan context and their effect on green performance. The main purpose of the study was to test the direct path from green supply chain management practices to green performance and then the moderating effect of radical green strategy on the relationship. Using simple iii random and convenience sampling techniques to select a sample of 100 respondents who were staff and management of selected firms in the Western region, questionnaire was administered to them as them data gathering instrument. The findings revealed that the firms employ green supply chain management practices in their operations. It further revealed that out of the four independent variables (green purchasing, ecological design, green production and reverse logistics), only ecological design and reverse logistics had positive and significant effects on green performance Also, radical green strategy is to a large extent achieved by firms in the Western region. Even though radical green strategy has an impact on green performance, it does not moderate the relationship between green supply chain management practices and green performance. Therefore, it can be concluded that radical green strategy does not moderate green supply chain management practices to impact on green performance. As such, it implies that firms should focus on been innovativeness in purchasing products that are environmentally friendly, adopt reverse logistics practices in their operations as well as management thoughts should be green-orientation so as to contribute the firm’s green performance.

Source: KNUST
Green supply chain orientation and firm performance in the cocoa processing industry: evidence from pbc limited

The cocoa processing industry plays a significant role in global supply chains, and as environmental concerns rise, the integration of sustainable practices becomes imperative. This study examines the effect of green supply chain orientation (gsco) on firm performance within the cocoa processing industry. This study aims to assess whether a higher level of gsco is associated with superior performance outcomes. The study collects primary data using structured questionnaires administered to 250 respondents out of which 220 respondents completed the questionnaires. Through a comprehensive analysis of primary quantitative data from pbc limited, it was observed that pbc limited in the cocoa processing industry has embraced a higher-than-average level of green supply chain orientation. This suggests a growing commitment within the firm towards environmentally conscious practices, including waste reduction, resource efficiency, and responsible sourcing. Furthermore, the study revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between gsco and firm performance. The findings of this study underscore the importance of adopting a green supply chain orientation in the cocoa processing industry. As consumer preferences shift towards environmentally friendly products and regulatory pressures mount, businesses that prioritize sustainability throughout their supply chain not only contribute to a more sustainable future but also stand to reap significant economic benefits. It is recommended that conducting a longitudinal study to assess the long-term impact of green supply chain orientation (gsco) on the firm performance of pbc limited. By tracking changes in gsco practices and firm performance over an extended period, the research can provide insights into the sustainability of positive outcomes.

Source: KNUST
Green’s functions approach to initial value problems

Abstract One of the unique applications of Green’s functions to solving ordinary differential equations arises with initial-value problems. A differential equation with auxiliary conditions specified only at the left end points is called an initial value problem. In this thesis a second order linear homogeneous and non- homogeneous differential equations with initial-value conditions are used, whiles the Green’s functions approach was used to convert the differential equations too integral equations and then solved.

Source: KNUST
Griffonia simplicifolia (DC.) Baill. attenuates gentamicin and cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicty in rats

Nephrotoxicity is one of the most common kidney conditions. However, most conventional drugs are not adequate for treatment. This study was designed to evaluate the nephroprotective activity of 50% hydroethanolic leaf extract of Griffonia simplicifolia (DC.) Benth in drug-induced nephrotoxicity in Sprague–Dawley rats. Nephrotoxicity was induced in experimental animals by administering gentamicin and cisplatin after pretreatment with hydroethanolic extract of G. simplicifolia (GSE). GSE at 100 and 250 mg/kg were administered for 7 and 10 days by oral gavage in the gentamicin and cisplatin models, respectively. Silymarin (120 mg/kg) was given as the standard nephroprotective drug. Nephroprotective effect was studied by assaying the activity of kidney function biomarkers such as creatinine, urea, sodium, chloride, and potassium concentrations. The effect of the treatments on kidney antioxidant enzymes (SOD, MDA, GSH, GPx, GST and NO), inflammatory cytokines (IL 17, IL 23 and COX-2) and the histology of the kidney were also examined. The activity of all the kidney function biomarkers changed significantly in gentamicin and cisplatin-treated rats; increased in urea and creatinine concentration and decreased in Na, K and Cl concentrations. Co-administration of GSE with the nephrotoxins restored these to normal levels. It also reduced NO concentration in both the gentamicin and cisplatin model and increased GPx concentration in the gentamicin model. GSE showed a higher percentage protection than silymarin, a standard nephroprotective drug, in both the gentamicin and cisplatin models. Intensity of structural alterations revealed that the GSE treatments have a protective potential against nephrotoxicity. GSE treatments improved expressions of IL17 and IL23, thus underscoring the proinflammatory and healing properties of GSE, respectively. The results generally indicate that leaves of G. simplicifolia possess nephroprotective activity.

Source: KNUST
Ground conductivity and magnetic susceptibility mapping of Municipal solid waste deposits: A case study of the Asawase waste deposit site

Leachate resulting from the seepage of rain water into waste deposit can infiltrate and pollute the water table. The areas near the Asawase waste deposit site have a greater possibility of groundwater contamination because of the potential pollution sources of leachate originating from the solid waste deposit. Magnetic susceptibility and electrical conductivity measurements were carried out on six (6) traverse lines at the Asawase waste deposit site to evaluate possible infiltration of leachate flow. The magnetic susceptibility results showed that the central and south-eastern part of the area recorded very high concentration of ferrimagnetic materials in the top 100 mm of the land surface (713-920 10􀀀6 SI). There are also traces of high probable ferrimagnetic concentrations in the north-eastern end. Results from the apparent electrical conductivity indicate that the moderate electrical conductive zone at a depth of 30 m underlying a high electrical conductive zone at a depth of 7.5 m is mapped in the north-eastern part. These two zones are underlaid by higher electrical conductive zone at a depth of 60 m. The subsurface of the east through to the south-eastern part of the area lies in a region of low to moderate apparent electrical conductivity and the direction of leachate flow is in the NE direction and very severe at a depth of 45 m.

Source: KNUST
Gross morphometry of the human placenta and umbilical cord with reference to neonatal indices

In recent years more attention has been focused on the morphology of the placenta and umbilical cord due to their vital roles in foetal development and neonatal survival. While extensive studies have been documented in this area in the developed world, there is very little published information about the morphological variations that occur in human placenta and umbilical cord in Ghana. Therefore this study was designed to evaluate the structural variations in placental indices, umbilical cord indices and neonatal outcome and also compare the data obtained with other samples for regional variation. A total of 236 placentae with attached umbilical cords were obtained from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Hospital in Kumasi between February and July 2013 for this study. Mean placental indices for weight, diameter and thickness were 578.81 g, 17.40 cm and 2.04 cm respectively. The mean neonatal indices were 3.24 kg, 34.27 cm and 50.64 cm for weight, head circumference and length respectively. Neonatal weight correlated significantly with placental weight, neonatal length and neonatal head circumference (P < 0.05). On the contrary, neonatal weight had no significant correlation with placental thickness and diameter. However, there was significant correlation between the umbilical cord length with umbilical cord diameter, umbilical cord artery A1 diameter, umbilical cord artery A2 diameter and volume of Wharton’s jelly (P < 0.001). Based on the results of the present study, the placental weight, umbilical cord length and diameter and neonatal weight values compared with other sampled populations showed significantly lower values. These findings suggest that regional variations exist with these parameters which are likely to contribute to the high neonatal morbidity and mortality rate reported in Ghana. This study further affirms that the placenta and umbilical cord should be critically examined in order to effectively monitor and manage adverse neonatal outcome.

Source: KNUST
Ground water quality analysis in the Amansie West District of Ashanti Region

The laboratory analyses of the water samples taken from the various communities (Manso Akropong, Ahwerewa, Manso Abore, Antoakrom, Apenimadi, Adwumam, Manso Nkwanta, Mpatuam, Tontokrom, Manso Nkran, Agroyesum, Adubea, Datano, and Pakyi No.2) of Amansie West District (Study Area) indicate that their drinking water sources contain lead (Pb) above the permissible level of l0μg/l proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ghana. Pakyi No.2 has unusually low pH and nitrate levels which are above the EPA permissible levels of (6-9) and 2.0μg/l respectively. Low p11 has adverse effects on taste, odour, and appearance of drinking water and may also enhance the corrosion of water mains and metal containers. With the exception of Apenimadi, the remaining communities have sulphate levels above the EPA permissible level of 1.0μg/l. Manso Abore, Antoakrom, Apenimadi, Tontokrom, Agroyesum, Adubea, Datano, and Pakyi No.2 have Lindane (Hexachlorocyclohexane-HCH) pesticide residue levels in μg/l of 36.12, 37.92, 5.0, 5.0, 5.0, 40.19,38.70 and 5.0 respectively. These are extremely higher than the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline value of 2.0igIl. Adubea recorded 25.56μg/l for 2, 4, 5 Trichlorobenzene (TCB) above the WHO guideline value of 20μg/l. All the afore-mentioned communities with pesticide residues have levels of DDT and its metabolites (DDE and DDD) above the WHO guideline value of 2.0μg/l. Thus the water quality of boreholes has been influenced by: (A) The geology of the area by virtue of the possibility of mineralisation of lead and the generation of sulphuric acid from sources such as pyrite, chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite associatted with the geology of the study area. (B) Farming activity through the use of pesticides. Inspite of the generally poor sanitary conditions of the district, its ground water quality has not been affected. This is because of the absence of fecal coliforms (according to results of bacteriological analyses) often associated with poor sanitary conditions.

Source: KNUST
Groundnut Shell as an Alternative Sculpture Material For Modelling, Casting and Carving: The Case of Salaga Senior High School, Ghana

This study has explored groundnut shell which is normally burnt or dumped in the environment as an alternative sculpture material for modeling, casting and carving. The researcher adopted quantitative and qualitative research approaches with quasi experimental, action, descriptive and project based methods. Quota sampling technique was used to select 44 out of 145 students in the Department of Visual Arts, Salaga Senior High School. Interview and observation were used to collect data. The data was analyzed using tabulations, percentages, and descriptions. As a pioneering project, the study has made a significant contribution to knowledge. The results revealed that groundnut shell is a suitable material for sculpture. The following recommendations were made; Sculpture tutors and students at all levels of educational institutions as well as sculpture industries in Ghana should make use of groundnut shell which to a very large extent will reduce cost, deforestation, and environmental pollution. It will also improve groundnut cultivation in the country. Curriculum Research and Development Division of Ghana Education Service should include groundnut shell in the teaching syllabus as one of the major sculpture materials since it is inexpensive and also suitable material.

Source: KNUST
Groundnut varietal response to spacing in the Guinea Savannah and Forest Zones of Ghana

Field experiments were conducted at the KNUST Agricultural Research Station and Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (SARI) in 2006 and 2007 major seasons to assess the influence spacing on different groundnut varieties. The design was a factorial experiment laid out in randomized complete blocks with three replications. Two factors were tested; variety (6) and spacing (3). Nkosuor and Kpanieli recorded high pod yields at KNUST, significantly improving pod yield by 18.18 and 15.63% over their respective treatment means in 2006 and 2007. Spacing1 and Spacing2 significantly increased pod yields by 36.85 and 6.99%, over their respective treatment means in 2006 and 2007. At Nyankpala, Adepa and Manipintar significantly increased pod yield by 9.19% and 40.25% over the mean of treatments, respectively in 2006 and 2007. SP1 improved pod yield in 2007 by 16.08% over the mean of treatments. Jenkaar increased stover N by 4.08% whilst SP1 increased the stover N by 4.41 and 7.38% over treatment mean in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Jenkaar and Nkosuor recorded large stover N at Nyankpala, significantly increasing stover N by 40.83 and 31.86% over mean of treatments in 2006 and 2007, respectively. SP2 significantly increased stover N at over mean of treatments at Nyankpala by 24.76 and 4.66%, respectively in 2006 and 2007. In 2006, Azivivi increased mean 100 seed weight over the mean of treatments by 19.03% at KNUST, whilst Manipintar improved mean 100 seed weight by 12.7% over treatments mean in 2007. SP3 increased mean 100 seed weight by 4.24 and 8.32% over mean of treatments in 2006 and 2007 respectively. At Nyankpala, Adepa and Kpanieli significantly increased 100 seed weight by 0.54 and 9.98% over their respective treatment means in 2006 and 2007 respectively. Although all treatments recorded benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of over 1.00 at KNUST, Nkosuor and Kpanieli had the highest BCR (4.48 and 7.49, respectively) in 2006 and 2007. SP1 recorded the highest benefit-cost ratio 2006 (5.13) and 2007 (6.79). At Nyankpala, Adepa and Manipintar recorded the highest benefit-cost ratios (8.76 and 4.90, respectively) in 2006 and 2007. SP1 again recorded the highest benefits-cost ratios (8.51 and 3.89, respectively) in 2006 and 2007. The economics of production among the different spacing were in decreasing order of spacing1>spacing2>spacing3. Based on the results, the recommended groundnut variety for the Humid Forest was Nkosuor. For the Guinea Savannah, the recommended groundnut variety was Adepa. SP1 was however the recommended spacing for both the Humid Forest and Guinea Savanna agro-ecologies.

Source: KNUST