ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
La formation initiale des enseignants du FLE au Ghana : défis et perspectives à l’école normale Mount Mary, Somanya.

The teaching / learning of French as a foreign language (FLE) in Ghana necessarily requires a professional training according to the country's education policy. No teacher could be recruited to public schools without attending the teacher training college. The complexity of the French language in general and its teaching in an English-speaking environment in particular presupposes that the teacher should be equipped with essential skills not only linguistically but also pedagogically in order to efficiently practise his profession. This study, which was conducted at the teacher training college, Somanya in Ghana, aims at exposing the preparedness of the student teachers or the future trainers in terms of competences with regard to the content of their training at the end Second year before going to the field. The study is carried out through an observation, an interview and a questionnaire. The results reveal that many student-teachers have language difficulties which prevent the proper mastery of linguistic structures and sometimes slow the teaching of the methodological tool which constitutes an integral part of the training of the teaching profession.

Source: UG
La petite fille du réverbère de Calixthe Beyala ou quand le texte se fait un jeu d’éclat, d’échos et écarts

Diverse et provocante, l’œuvre de Beyala suscite toujours l’intérêt du public. Nous nous pencherons dans cet article sur le jeu de lumière, de reflets et d'oppositions qui anime, dans son huitième roman, La petite fille du réverbère, les rapports délicats entre le texte et ses divers « créateurs » : langue, auteur, narratrice, lecteurs, réalité sociale environnante, divers discours précédents.

Source: UG
La relation alimentation-sexualité dans la fiction africaine francophone

Les stratégies de décloisonnement du domaine du sexe, sujet tabou, passent souvent par l’association symbolique de l’alimentation à la sexualité. Cette symbolisation est discernable dans les mythes, les rêves, les euphémismes, les métaphores, bref dans les représentations mentales et figuratives remontant à la nuit des temps. Partant de certains romans contemporains d’Afrique « francophone », cet article se propose d’analyser les rapports entre la nourriture et les rapports sexuels.

Source: UG
La stabilité démocratique: Une solution pour la consolidation de la paix en Afrique de l’ouest – Le cas du Ghana. (Democratic Stability as a Necessity for Peace Consolidation in West Africa: Ghana’s Experience)

The political evolution of Ghana adequately shows a direct link between democratic stability and the consolidation of peace. Frequent coups d’état in Ghana corresponded with a period of authoritarianism of military regimes. Over the past twenty years in Ghana, democratization has made it possible to observe a real consolidation of peace. The press has played an important role in this process by closely monitoring public officials, public expenditures and human rights issues in an environment that has progressed from various forms of state control and extreme centralization of the media to liberalization and a pluralistic system characterized by high degrees of media freedom. Ghana’s example shows that there is virtually no viable alternative to democracy having experimented with both one-party and military dictatorial rule. A strengthened constitution could address important structural weaknesses in Ghana’s political system and enhance its democratic tradition and culture.Multiple, independent and diverse media, an independent judiciary, vibrant civil society, free and transparent elections, respect for human rights, rule of law, transparency and accountability, inclusiveness and participation of the citizenry in national discourse provide healthy pointers.The consensual electoral system constitutes one of the foundations of democratic stability.

Source: UG
LA-ICP-MS U–Pb zircon, columbite-tantalite and 40Ar–39Ar muscovite age constraints for the rare-element pegmatite dykes in the Altai orogenic belt, NW China

The Chinese Altai is renowned for its rich rare-element resources. Nine representative rare-element (REL) pegmatites were dated using LA-ICP-MS and ⁴⁰ Ar– ³⁹ Ar methods. The columbite grains yield a weighted mean ²⁰⁶ Pb/ ²³⁸ U age of 239.6±3.8 Ma for the Dakalasu (Be-Nb-Ta) pegmatite and concordia U–Pb ages of 258.1±3.1 Ma and 262.3±2.5 Ma for the Xiaokalasu (Li-Nb-Ta) pegmatite. The zircons display a weighted mean ²⁰⁶ Pb/ ²³⁸ U age of 198.5±2.5 Ma for the Husite (Be) pegmatite and concordia U–Pb ages of 194.3±1.6 Ma and 248.2±2.2 Ma for the Qunkuer (Be) and Taerlang (barren) pegmatites. The muscovite ⁴⁰ Ar– ³⁹ Ar dating gives plateau ages of 286.4±1.6 Ma, 297.0±2.6 Ma, 265.2±1.5 Ma, 178.8±1.0 Ma, 162.2±0.9 Ma, 237.7±1.3 Ma, 237.4±1.2 Ma and 231.9±1.2 Ma for the Talate (Li-Be-Nb-Ta), Baicheng (Nb-Ta), Kangmunagong (barren), Husite (Be), Qunkuer (Be-Nb-Ta), Xiaokalasu (Li-Nb-Ta), Weizigou (Be) and Taerlang (barren) pegmatites, respectively. These new ages coupled with previous geochronological work suggest that the REL pegmatites in the Chinese Altai formed during early Permain – Late Jurassic time. The REL pegmatites located in the Central Altaishan terrane are younger than those in the Qiongkuer–Abagong terrane, showing a correlation with the coeval and adjacent granites. The formation of the REL pegmatites and these granites indicates frequent and strong magmatic activity in the post-orogenic and anorogenic setting. The spatial and temporal distribution of pegmatites and granites reveals a magmatism path from the SE (of age early–middle Permian), to the NW (middle Permian – Middle Triassic) and finally to the central part (Middle Triassic – Jurassic) of the Chinese Altai.

Source: UG
Lab experiments in demographic fieldwork: Understanding gender dynamics in africa

Background: Anthropological literature has long linked bridewealth payments to decision-making about fertility. Recent research underscores the significance of men's preferences regarding women's reproductive behavior, and suggests that bridewealth payments place constraints on women's reproductive autonomy. Yet because survey data on bridewealth are rare, and the collection of new survey data on bridewealth presents serious challenges, this explanation could not be tested. Objective Our objective in this paper is to highlight the potential utility of lab experiments (in particular, vignette experiments) for improving our understanding of gender relations in Africa, using the hypothesized effect of bridewealth on normative constraints on women's reproductive autonomy as an illustration. Methods: We discuss our reasons for turning to lab experiments, and to vignette experiments in particular. We also summarize a series of studies (Horne, Dodoo, and Dodoo 2013; Dodoo, Horne, and Biney 2014) which have implemented our experimental approach. Results: Our experimental evidence shows that bridewealth payments are associated with greater normative constraints on women's reproductive autonomy. We also find that these negative effects of bridewealth are consistent across participant ages, and do not appear to be ameliorated by female schooling. Conclusions: We conclude that lab experiments in general (and vignette experiments in particular) are underutilized methodological tools that may be useful for helping us gain a better understanding of the cultural context of gender relations in Africa; and that demographic research more generally may benefit from taking advantage of the strengths of experimental methods. © 2014 Dodoo, Horne and Dodoo.

Source: UG
Label-free real-time acoustic sensing of microvesicle release from prostate cancer (PC3) cells using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance

Using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance with dissipation monitoring, QCM-D (label-free system) measuring changes in resonant frequency (Δf) that equate to mass deposited on a sensor, we showed the attachment, over a 60 min period, of a monolayer of PC3 cells to the gold electrodes of the quartz crystal sensor, which had been rendered hydrophilic. That MVs were released upon BzATP stimulation of cells was confirmed by NTA analysis (average 250 nm diameter), flow cytometry, showing high phosphatidylserine exposition and by fluorescent (Annexin V Alexa Fluor® 488-positive) and electron microscopy. Over a period of 1000s (16.7 min) during which early apoptosis increased from 4% plateauing at 10% and late apoptosis rose to 2%, the Δf increased 20 Hz, thereupon remaining constant for the last 1000s of the experiment. Using the Sauerbrey equation, the loss in mass, which corresponded to the release of 2.36 × 106 MVs, was calculated to be 23 ng. We therefore estimated the mass of an MV to be 0.24 pg. With the deposition on the QCM-D of 3.5 × 107 MVs over 200s, the decrease in Δf (Hz) gave an estimate of 0.235 pg per MV. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Source: UG
Labeling Theory and Life Stories of Juvenile Delinquents Transitioning Into Adulthood

Labeling theory contends that an acquisition of a criminal status can be very problematic for offenders navigating into adulthood. This article examines this assertion with the life story of 23 juvenile delinquents. The objective of the study was to gain insight into how the negative reactions of friends, families, and society worked to change and reinforced their offending behavior. The qualitative data which resulted from the use of semi-structured interview guide revealed that self-motivation of offenders to move into “new” neighborhoods and the lack of labeling triggered a turning point among those who desisted than the persistent offenders. The theoretical implication of this finding is that labeling per se may not necessarily explain persistence in crime considering how those who desisted from crime maneuvered their labeling status in the face of discrimination. In formulating a desistance theory of crime and delinquency, criminologists need to revise and evaluate traditional labeling theory with life histories of offenders in the desistance process. This shift in paradigm will inform the coping mechanism of more offenders, as well as the appropriate techniques and strategies to reduce recidivism. Strengthening prison aftercare programs, provision of institutional and social support, and the integration of residential change into post offenders’ treatment therapy will be in the right direction for policy makers. © The Author(s) 2018.

Source: UG
Laboratory confirmation of Buruli ulcer cases in Ghana, 2008-2016

The Bacteriology Department aims to improve the quality of life first for Ghanaians and the world at large by conducting research into bacterial diseases of public health importance to Ghana and globally. In addition to working on enteric pathogens and sexually transmitted diseases, the department’s current main focus is on the two most important mycobacterial diseases of public health importance to Ghana, namely Buruli ulcer (BU) and tuberculosis (TB).

Source: UG
Laboratory diagnosis of dual HIV-1/HIV-2 infection in Ghanaian patients

Most research activities involve the use of molecular methods such as regular PCR (PCR), quantitative PCR (Q-PCR), genomic sequence and analysis using different software, genetic engineering, probe hybridization techniques, biological and molecular cloning, evaluation of immune markers for laboratory diagnosis of infections, serological assays involving the use of rapid tests, ELISA-based evaluations and immunofluorescent assay techniques.

Source: UG
Laboratory diagnosis of homozygous alpha thalassaemia

BACKGROUND: Alpha-thalassaemia is one of the most prevalent haemoglobinopathies in the world. The molecular basis of the condition is mainly due to deletion of one or more alpha genes and occasional point mutations. The diagnosis and treatment of microcytic hypochromic anaemia is at times a problematic medical issue in Ghana due to co-existence of a-thalassaemia traits and iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) since there is no routine laboratory procedure for the diagnosis of the former.OBJECTIVE: To identify the alpha thalassaemias and determine a simple laboratory method of differentiating them from other causes of microcytic hypochromic, anaemia.METHODS: Venous blood samples of random 216 adult OPD patients at the Central Laboratory of Korle-Bu Hospital were taken for full blood count, iron studies, PCR and restriction enzyme analysis to tag -a3.7-thalassaemia variants.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Of the 200 accepted subjects, 114 (57.0%) were -a/aa, 11 (5.5%) were -a/-a and 75(37.5%) áá/áá. Differences among the entire red cell indices and serum iron measurements between -a/-a and aa/aa, and-a/-a and -a/-aa were found to be statistically significant (P<0.05 in each case) and consistent with previous studies, but there were no significant (P>0.05) differences between -a/aa and aa/aa RBC parameters. However, selective analysis based on Hb<13.0 g/dl for males and <12.0 g/dl for females indicated that combination of RBC indices with iron studies can be used to differentiate -a/-a from IDA. Calculation of RBC/PCV ratios of anaemic aa/aa, and -a/-a was yet another tool as the latter was found to have higher ratio.

Source: UG
Laboratory evaluation of the susceptibility of adult Africa Invader Fly, Bactrocera invadens (Diptera: Tephritidae) To NuLure-based bait of some selected insecticides commonly used by mango farmers in Ghana

True fruit flies are one of the world’s worst pests of fruit and fruiting vegetables, causing millions of dollars worth of damage each year. While Africa has a number of native fruit flies of its own, some exotic species present in some continents has in recent years raised some serious biosecurity concerns among local experts. Bactrocera invadens is one of the exotic fruit flies that recently invaded Africa. Evidence of competitive displacement of indigent fruit flies in some mango agro ecosystem by this species has been recently documented. Effective control of these fruit flies can best be achieved through an IPM based control programme which will involve the use of bait in traps or spot treatments. However, no fruit flies bait is currently registered and is available on Ghanaian market for use in the management of this species by the farmers. The use of some readily available insecticidal products namely Cydim Super, Pyrinex 50 EC, Diazol 50 EW and Deltapaz as killing agents in the commercially available food bait Nulure was evaluated in the laboratory to ascertain their efficacy. The result show that Pyrinex and Diazol based bait were the most effective bait that can be used for the management of fruit flies in Ghana.

Source: UG
Laboratory Evaluation of The Susceptibility of Adult African Invader Fly Bactrocera Invadens (Diptera : Tephritidae) To Nulure-Based Bait of Some Selected Insecticides Commonly Used By Mango Farmers In Ghana

True fruit flies are one of the world’s worst pests of fruit and fruiting vegetables, causing millions of dollars worth of damage each year. While Africa has a number of native fruit flies of its own, some exotic species present in some continents has in recent years raised some serious biosecurity concerns among local experts. Bactrocera invadens is one of the exotic fruit flies that recently invaded Africa. Evidence of competitive displacement of indigent fruit flies in some mango agro ecosystem by this species has been recently documented. Effective control of this fruit flies can best be achieved through an IPM based control programme which will involve the use of bait in traps or spot treatments. However, no fruit flies bait is currently registered and is available on Ghanaian market for use in the management of this species by the farmers. The use of some readily available insecticidal products namely Cydim Super, Pyrinex 50 EC, Diazol 50 EW and Deltapaz as killing agents in the commercially available food bait Nulure was evaluated in the laboratory to ascertain their efficacy. The result show that Pyrinex and Diazol based bait were the most effective bait that can be used for the management of fruit flies in Ghana.

Source: UG
Laboratory Quality Audit in 25 Anti-Retroviral Therapy Facilities in North West of Nigeria

Introduction: A laboratory’s ability to consistently produce high-quality and reliable results hinges on adopting laboratory standards that guide daily practices to ensure steady quality improvement. Although assessment is an extremely rewarding exercise in health care quality improvement processes, it is always considered very time consuming and expensive in developing world set tings. A quarterly internal audit was conducted in 25 FHI360 supported Antiretroviral Treatment laboratories in the North West of Nigeria which can surely provide reference for other countries. Methodology: A checklist adapted from the World Health Organization/African Regional Office la boratory accreditation checklist was used to quantitatively evaluate 7 quality essentials (QEs). A team composed of technical staff from FHI360, State Ministry of Health and facility laboratory heads, conducted the audits, developed and monitored intervention plans. Information obtained with the checklist was captured in excel, validated and imported into Grappa Prism software ver sion 5.0 for analysis. Results: Most (92%) facilities were at secondary level with (8%) at tertiary level. The mean total score on all QEs across the facilities was 63.34 ± 9.77 in quarter (Q) 1, 68.8 ± 10.91 in Q2, 72.59 ± 8.02 in Q3 and 72.72 ± 9.16 in Q4 (p ≤ 0.0001). The most improved QE through Q1-Q4 was organization and personnel (32.2%), while signage/bench top reference had an 18.6% point decline. In ranking facilities based on differences of total scores between Q4 and Q1, Kachia General Hospital was the highest with 27 point increase. Considering the mean percentage score for all quarters per facility, 4 had ≥ 80%, 19 had between 60% - 80% and 2 had ˂60%. The total non-conformities cited for QI-Q4 were 185, 100, 78 and 64 respectively with highest recorded in internal and external quality control and the least in facility and safety. Conclusion: We recorded some improvement in most QEs confirming the benefits of internal audits, reviews and follow-up. However, much more is needed in terms of technical assistance, capacity building, mentorship, and commitment at facility and state level to meet minimum acceptable laboratory quality standards.

Source: UG
Laboratory-based nationwide surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in Ghana

Global efforts are underway to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A key target in this intervention is surveillance for local and national action. Data on AMR in Ghana are limited, and monitoring of AMR is nonexistent. We sought to generate baseline data on AMR, and to assess the readiness of Ghana in laboratory-based surveillance. Biomedical scientists in laboratories across Ghana with capacity to perform bacteriological culture were selected and trained. In-house standard operating protocols were used to perform microbiological investigations on clinical specimens. Additional microbiological tests and data analyses were performed at a centralized laboratory. Surveillance data were stored and analyzed using WHONET program files. A total of 24 laboratories participated in the training, and 1,598 data sets were included in the final analysis. A majority of the bacterial species were isolated from outpatients (963 isolates; 60.3%). Urine (617 isolates; 38.6%) was the most common clinical specimen cultured, compared to blood (100 isolates; 6.3%). Ten of 18 laboratories performed blood culture. Bacteria isolated included Escherichia coli (27.5%), Pseudomonas spp. (14.0%), Staphylococcus aureus (11.5%), Streptococcus spp. (2.3%), and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (0.6%). Most of the isolates were multidrug-resistant, and over 80% of them were extended-spectrum beta-lactamases-producing. Minimum inhibitory concentration levels at 50% and at 90% for ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, and amikacin on selected multidrug-resistant bacteria species ranged between 2 μg/mL and.256 μg/mL. A range of clinical bacterial isolates were resistant to important commonly used antimicrobials in the country, necessitating an effective surveillance to continuously monitor AMR in Ghana. With local and international support, Ghana can participate in global AMR surveillance. © 2015 Opintan et al.

Source: UG
Labour Casualisation and Youth Employment in Ghana’s Formal Private Sector

This article explores the link between labour casualisation and youth employment in Ghana’s formal private sector. It uses the case of Blue Skies Holdings Ltd, an agro-processing company in Ghana. The article shows the contribution of Blue Skies to youth employment in Ghana. However, changes in the global production of the company’s primary export commodity and local shocks created new challenges for the company. The article explains how local economic realities, global competition, and local shocks impact on the company’s ability to maintain permanent employment for its workers. It recommends that government must design policies to incentivise successful companies to create more jobs but without consigning youth to insecure employment conditions.

Source: UG
Labour intensive public works and agricultural off-season employment: A case study of Ghana social opportunity programme

The Labour Intensive Public Works (LlPW) of the Ghana Social Opportunities Project (GSOP) was initiated by the Government of Ghana to provide targeted rural poor households access to local employment and income-earning opportunities during agricultural off-seasons. The key objectives of the programme were to protect households and communities against external shocks and; rehabilitate and improve productive and social infrastructure such as roads, dams and schools. The initiative was to mainly mitigate the effects of extreme poverty, particularly during agriculture off-seasons. This study assessed the impact of the L1PW project on labour force participation and employment generation during the off season in agriculture in Ghana. Panel data from two rounds of survey were used for this analysis and propensity score matching technique was used for the estimation of the average treatment effect. The results show that labour force participation increased by 7% in the lean season among beneficiary households relative to the non-beneficiaries. Paid employment among beneficiary households increased by 9.4% relative to the non-beneficiary households and the number of days spent in a week on paid work by beneficiary households increased by 30.8%. The average income received by L1PW beneficiary households from paid work was GHC 48.57 higher than the amount received by non-beneficiary households. The paper shares interesting results on sustainability of such innovative programmes that seek to lessen the burden of unemployment or under-employment in deprived communities during the lean agricultural season while creating vital infrastructure for eco nomic growth

Source: UG