ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
The status of perception, information exposure and knowledge of soil fertility among small-scale farmers in Ghana, Kenya, Mali and Zambia

Purpose: Soil fertility is decreasing in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. To mitigate this trend, various agricultural technologies are available, but their uptake by farmers has been low. Perception of the problem, information exposure, and knowledge play a major role in adoption of technologies. This study assessed empirically the levels of perception, knowledge and information exposure among African farmers as an indicator for potential adoption of soil fertility technologies. Design/Methodology/approach: The study used survey data of more than 2,400 small-scale farmers selected through random sampling from Ghana, Kenya, Mali and Zambia. The survey investigated socio-economic factors, exposure to media, perception and knowledge of soil fertility and other information. Findings: Many farmers did not perceive soil fertility as a major challenge, except in Mali; farmers were hardly receiving information on soil fertility from professional agricultural sources, and they often lacked accurate knowledge about soil fertility technologies. Radio was by far the most used information source for farmers. Practical implications: The study has exposed the need for interventions to increase awareness, information exposure, and knowledge about soil fertility among farmers to strengthen the adoption of soil fertility technologies. It also calls for innovative ways of strengthening extension services through links with radio. Theoretical implications: The role of communication in the uptake of agricultural innovations is still under-researched, and hence this study exposes the need to investigate in-depth knowledge, perception levels, and quality and frequency of information exposure on various channels of soil fertility management. Originality: This is one of the few studies empirically measuring perception, information frequency on various channels, and knowledge of soil fertility among small-scale farmers in African countries.

Source: UG
Status of radiation dose levels in paediatric chest radiography in a tertiary hospital in Ghana.

Determination of appropriate radiation doses to paediatric patients in accordance with the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) principle is important, as it allows for effective optimization of imaging techniques. This study assessed the status of radiation dose levels in paediatric patients undergoing chest X-ray examinations at a tertiary hospital in Ghana. A population encompassing 86 paediatric patients categorised as infants (<1 y), young children (1-5 y) and older children (6–12 y) was selected using a quasi-experimental study design. The patients’ anatomical data and X-ray beam exposure parameters were used to indirectly calculate the entrance surface doses (ESDs) received during the examinations. The infants received the highest mean ESD of 196 μGy (uncertainty = 0.37) compared to 158 μGy (uncertainty = 0.46) among the older children. The risk of developing radiation-induced biological effects was therefore higher for infant patients. The ESDs were generally higher than the internationally recommended reference doses. Careful adoption of internationally accepted exposure factors (high tube voltage and low tube load) is most recommended to optimise the dose.

Source: UG
Stegacrypt – A Reduced Least Significant Bit Insertion Rate Carrier for Transmitting Embedded Information

Abstract: In this paper, we present the performance assessment of an imperceptible and robust secured stegano-cryptographic model of electronic voting. The Performance analysis was achieved based on the degree to which the model meets the generic and functional requirements of secured e-voting system: authentication, integrity, confidentiality and verifiability as well as other functional security requirements of a secured voting using five-point psychometric analysis. The result of the quantitative evaluation of the model assert that the model possessed capacity to guarantee and validate voters for who they said they are, guarantees the integrity of elections, ensures privacy of the voters, guarantees the confidentiality of the vote and provide mechanism for fraud detection after the electioneering process in developing country where digital divide is significant.

Source: UG
Stemming the tide: School dropout in Ghana A resource for school social workers, educationists and policy makers

The Government of Ghana has embarked on several laudable initiatives since independence in 1957 to ensure every child attains basic education. Despite these efforts, a significant number of children fail to complete their basic education. A weakness in the educational initiatives has been the over-emphasis on enrolment with little attention paid to school dropout. Moreover, previous studies on basic education in Ghana focused primarily on enrolment, and many focused on primary level education. This study examines individual, family, school, and socio-cultural factors that affect school dropout at the basic level of education. The study is primarily qualitative and takes a multi-dimensional ontological view of school dropout by looking at the problem from multiple levels of the social world. Framework analysis and voice are used to analyse and gain insight into the experiences of children in school and those who have dropped out. The findings are reflected in an innovative model that indicates that Family Support (FS), School Quality (SQ), Academic Performance (AP), and Valuing of Education (VE) combine to either enhance or weaken children’s capacity to stay in school (CS). The study further found that there is a fifth element that positively enhances and binds the other factors (AP, SQ, VE, and FS) and thereby promotes the capacity to stay in school. The study suggests the possibility of Resilience (R) being the fifth factor and recommends further research on resilience with focus on school age children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Ghana. It is suggested that identifying and establishing programs that build resilience and provide support systems for children and families within schools and communities could help improve basic education completion rates in Ghana.

Source: UG
Stemming the tide: School dropout in Ghana, A resource for school social workers, educationists and policy makers,

The Government of Ghana has embarked on several laudable initiatives since independence in 1957 to ensure every child attains basic education. Despite these efforts, a significant number of children fail to complete their basic education. A weakness in the educational initiatives has been the over-emphasis on enrollment with little attention paid to school dropout. Moreover, previous studies on basic education in Ghana focused primarily on enrolment, and many focused on primary level education. This study examines individual, family, school, and socio-cultural factors that affect school dropout at the basic level of education. The study is primarily qualitative and takes a multi-dimensional ontological view of school dropout by looking at the problem from multiple levels of the social world. Framework analysis and voice are used to analyse and gain insight into the experiences of children in school and those who have dropped out. The findings are reflected in an innovative model that indicates that Family Support (FS), School Quality (SQ), Academic Performance (AP), and Valuing of Education (VE) combine to either enhance or weaken children’s capacity to stay in school (CS). The study further found that there is a fifth element that positively enhances and binds the other factors (AP, SQ, VE, and FS) and thereby promotes the capacity to stay in school. The study suggests the possibility of Resilience (R) being the fifth factor and recommends further research on resilience with focus on school age children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Ghana. It is suggested that identifying and establishing programs that build resilience and provide support systems for children and families within schools and communities could help improve basic education completion rates in Ghana.

Source: UG
Steps in Doing Health Research in Ghana (pp 131-139). In: A Gateway to Biomedical Research in Africa. Takafira Mduluza (Ed.)

The Epidemiology Department contributes to the mission of the institute through basic and applied epidemiological research on, but not limited to, malaria and other diseases of public health importance. It is also home to the Social Science Unit of the Institute, including the Health Support Centre for HIV/AIDS and other communicable and noncommunicable health problems.

Source: UG
Stepwise in vitro screening of MMV pathogen box compounds against Plasmodium falciparum to identify potent antimalarial candidates

Development of resistance to deployed antimalarial drugs is inevitable and needs prompt and continuous discovery of novel candidate drugs. Therefore, the antimalarial activity of 125 compounds from the Medicine for Malaria Ventures (MMV) pathogen box was determined. Combining standard IC50 and normalised growth rate inhibition (GR50) analyses, we found 16 and 22 compounds had higher potencies than CQ respectively. Seven compounds with relatively high potencies (low GR50 and IC50) against P. falciparum 3D7 were further analysed. Three of these were tested on 10 natural P. falciparum isolates from The Gambia using our newly developed parasite survival rate assay (PSRA). According to the IC50, GR50 and PSRA analyses, compound MMV667494 was most potent and highly cytotoxic to parasites. MMV010576 was slow acting but more potent than dihydroartemisinin (DHA) 72 h after exposure. MMV634140 was potent against the laboratory-adapted 3D7 isolate, but 4 out of 10 natural Gambian isolates survived and replicated slowly despite 72 h of exposure to the compound, suggesting potential drug tolerance and risk of resistance development. These results emphasise the usefulness of in vitro testing as a starting point for drug discovery. Improved approaches to data analyses and the use of natural isolates will facilitate the prioritisation of compounds for further clinical development.

Source: UG
Stepwise in vitro screening of MMV pathogen box compounds against Plasmodium falciparum to identify potent antimalarial candidates

Development of resistance to deployed antimalarial drugs is inevitable and needs prompt and continuous dis covery of novel candidate drugs. Therefore, the antimalarial activity of 125 compounds from the Medicine for Malaria Ventures (MMV) pathogen box was determined. Combining standard IC50 and normalised growth rate inhibition (GR50) analyses, we found 16 and 22 compounds had higher potencies than CQ respectively. Seven compounds with relatively high potencies (low GR50 and IC50) against P. falciparum 3D7 were further analysed. Three of these were tested on 10 natural P. falciparum isolates from The Gambia using our newly developed parasite survival rate assay (PSRA). According to the IC50, GR50 and PSRA analyses, compound MMV667494 was most potent and highly cytotoxic to parasites. MMV010576 was slow acting but more potent than dihydroartemisinin (DHA) 72 h after exposure. MMV634140 was potent against the laboratory-adapted 3D7 isolate, but 4 out of 10 natural Gambian isolates survived and replicated slowly despite 72 h of exposure to the compound, suggesting potential drug tolerance and risk of resistance development. These results emphasise the usefulness of in vitro testing as a starting point for drug discovery. Improved approaches to data analyses and the use of natural isolates will facilitate the prioritisation of compounds for further clinical development.

Source: UG
Stepwise in vitro screening of MMV pathogen box compounds against Plasmodium falciparum to identify potent antimalarial candidates

ABSTRACT Development of resistance to deployed antimalarial drugs is inevitable and needs prompt and continuous dis covery of novel candidate drugs. Therefore, the antimalarial activity of 125 compounds from the Medicine for Malaria Ventures (MMV) pathogen box was determined. Combining standard IC50 and normalised growth rate inhibition (GR50) analyses, we found 16 and 22 compounds had higher potencies than CQ respectively. Seven compounds with relatively high potencies (low GR50 and IC50) against P. falciparum 3D7 were further analysed. Three of these were tested on 10 natural P. falciparum isolates from The Gambia using our newly developed parasite survival rate assay (PSRA). According to the IC50, GR50 and PSRA analyses, compound MMV667494 was most potent and highly cytotoxic to parasites. MMV010576 was slow acting but more potent than dihydroartemisinin (DHA) 72 h after exposure. MMV634140 was potent against the laboratory-adapted 3D7 isolate, but 4 out of 10 natural Gambian isolates survived and replicated slowly despite 72 h of exposure to the compound, suggesting potential drug tolerance and risk of resistance development. These results emphasise the usefulness of in vitro testing as a starting point for drug discovery. Improved approaches to data analyses and the use of natural isolates will facilitate the prioritisation of compounds for further clinical development

Source: UG
Stigma and Forgiveness in Ghanaian Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

This study explored stigma experiences of mothers of children with ASD and forgiveness as their coping response. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 mothers of children with ASD. Results of this study found several noteworthy themes including, feelings of mother, family/societal reactions, forgiveness factors, and impact of forgiveness. Mothers reported significant stigmatization from families and society. Some expressed their feelings towards themselves, others and God, and finally recounted the use of forgiveness as a coping resource which contributed significantly to their well-being. Findings from this study contribute to the emerging literature on forgiveness as a coping resource for persons who are offended. Implications for clinical practice, intervention and policy are discussed.

Source: UG
Stigma associated with Ghanaian caregivers of AIDS patients

This study explores the experiences of informal caregivers of AIDS patients in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Fifteen interviews were completed in 2002 with 11 informal caregivers, including wives, mothers, boyfriends, daughters, sons and brothers of AIDS patients. Three major themes emerge in the analysis of the interviews with caregivers: stigma, caregiver burden, and caregiver commitment. In this article, the authors focus on the theme of stigma by documenting its presence and highlighting its impact on caregiving activities. Caregivers go to great effort to not only "hide" their patients but also their care giving activities, resulting in the social isolation of both patients and their caregivers. Many caregivers live in secrecy, not sharing their family member's diagnosis with extended family members. As a result, they receive limited support from the extended family. Stigma results in negative attitudes of neighbors, relatives, and health care workers toward caregivers and their patients. © 2006 Sage Publications.

Source: UG
Stigma Reduction In A Disability And Mental Health Programme In Ghana: Lessons In Participation

Background: Stigma is a barrier to inclusion for people with disabilities and mental health conditions. There is increasing recognition of the need to address stigma within disability inclusive programmes, but limited research is available on what are effective participatory approaches to stigma reduction interventions. Objectives: (1) To document participatory approaches used in the design and delivery of disability stigma reduction interventions in a disability and mental health programme in Ghana and (2) to understand the experience of programme implementers and participants in these processes, with particular attention to the leadership and involvement of people with disabilities. Method: A mixed-methods study was conducted. The data were drawn from a purposive sample of 20 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with programme staff, partners and key stakeholders, and 12 focus group discussions (FGDs) with self-help group (SHG) members, organisation of people with disabilities (OPD) members, and disability champions. We conducted thematic analysis using deductive and inductive approaches. Results: The programme adopted several approaches to participation at design and implementation stages, with a focus on the leadership of people with disabilities and people with mental health conditions. The process was seen to promote acceptability of stigma reduction approaches. Providing opportunities for building and strengthening relationships with a wide range of stakeholders was key to successful implementation. Understanding, and engaging with, power dynamics in the local context also provided important benefits. Conclusions: Participation of people with disabilities and mental health conditions is essential for the design and delivery of stigma reduction programmes in Ghana.

Source: UG
Stigmatisation and discrimination: Experiences of people affected by leprosy in Southern Ghana

INTRODUCTION: Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, poses a serious public health concern due to its impact on the wellbeing of affected people. This study, which was set in Ghana, explored stigmatisation and discrimination experiences of people affected by leprosy resident at the Weija Leprosarium in Accra. METHODOLOGY: Using a qualitative research methodology, 26 participants were purposively selected and in-depth interviews conducted. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and categorised based on the objectives of the study. FINDINGS: The findings revealed that participants experienced stigma and discrimination from their families, friends, healthcare providers and community members. Evidence showed that whereas some participants anticipated stigma and discrimination from prospective employers, others internalised the negative beliefs associated with the disease and gave up searching for jobs. Moreover, the findings indicated that participants were not willing to reintegrate into their communities since they considered the Leprosarium a safe haven. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the study, we conclude that people affected by leprosy included in this study experienced stigmatisation and discrimination. We therefore suggest that efforts aimed at reducing and in the long run curing the stigma of leprosy must be contextualised and scaled up. Also, implications are discussed for social work and public health practices.

Source: UG
Stigmatization and discrimination experiences of persons with mental illness: Insights from a qualitative study in southern Ghana

Introduction Globally, stigmatization and discrimination against persons with mental illness is a matter of public health concern. This is due to the fact that many people with mental illness are challenged twice; on one hand, they struggle with the symptoms and disabilities that result from the disease and on the other, they are stereotyped and prejudiced due to misconceptions about mental illness (Corrigan &Watson, 2002). Persons with mental disorders represent a considerable proportion of the world’s population (World Health Organization, WHO, 2010). It is estimated that about one million people die due to suicide every year (WHO, 2009) and one in four people worldwide will experience mental illness in her or his lifetime (WHO, 2010).

Source: UG
Stillbirths and early neonatal mortality in rural northern Ghana

Objective To calculate perinatal mortality (stillbirth and early neonatal death: END) rates in the Upper East region of Ghana and characterize community-based stillbirths and END in terms of timing, cause of death, and maternal and infant risk factors. Methods Birth outcomes were obtained from the Navrongo Health and Demographic Surveillance System over a 7-year period. Results Twenty thousand four hundred and ninty seven pregnant women were registered in the study. The perinatal mortality rate was 39 deaths/1000 deliveries, stillbirth rate 23/1000 deliveries and END rates 16/1000 live births. Most stillbirths were 31weeks gestation or less. Prematurity, first-time delivery and multiple gestation all significantly increased the odds of perinatal death. Approximately 70% of END occurred during the first 3 postnatal days, and the most common causes of death were birth asphyxia and injury, infections and prematurity. Conclusion Stillbirths and END remain a significant problem in Navrongo. The main causes of END occur during the first 3days and may be modifiable with simple targeted perinatal policies. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Source: UG
Stimulating and developing sustainable urban local economies: The role of urban agriculture

Whereas urban agriculture is a potential tool for urban local economic development (LED), there appears to be little empirical evidence that has examined how urban agriculture affects the urban local economy from a LED perspective. This research aims to to examine the role of urban agriculture in the urban local economy in a developing country, Ghana. Data for the research was obtained through focus group discussions and key informants interviews with urban agriculturalists and urban local authorities in two assemblies, respectively, in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. The findings showed that, if properly supported, urban agriculture can improve the local economy because of its multiple benefits of employment, income, and improved livelihood and food security. This study contributed to expanding the international scholarship on LED from the perspective of using urban agriculture as an LED strategy by examining the case in Ghana.

Source: UG
Stochastic control of a micro-dam irrigation scheme for dry season farming

Micro-dams are expected to be feasible options for water resources development in semi-arid regions such as the Guinea savanna agro-ecological zone of West Africa. An optimal water management strategy in a microdam irrigation scheme supplying water from an existing reservoir to a potential command area is discussed in this paper based on the framework of stochastic control. Water intake facilities are assumed to consist of photovoltaic pumping system units and hoses. The knowledge of current states of the storage volume of the reservoir and the soil moisture in the command area is fed-back to the intake flow rate. A system of two stochastic differential equations is proposed as a model for the dynamics of the micro-dam irrigation scheme, so that temporally backward solution of the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation determines an optimal control, which represents the optimal water management strategy. A computational procedure using the finite element method is successfully implemented to provide comprehensive information on the optimal control. The results indicate that the water initially stored in the reservoir can support full irrigation for about 80 days under the optimal water management strategy, which is predominantly based on the demand-side principle. However, the volatility of the soil moisture in the command area must be reasonably small.

Source: UG