ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Rotavirus in Africa: Shifting the Focus to Disease Prevention

The main research focus of the Electron Microscopy and Histopathology Department in the past 20 years has been in the areas of enteric diarrhoeas with special emphasis on rotavirus. Through its diarrhoea surveillance studies, the Department has helped to firmly establish rotaviruses as a major cause of diarrhoea in children, and document the circulation of unusual rotavirus genotypes in Ghana. The Department has also recently expanded its diagnostic repertoire to include the identification and characterization of noroviruses, astroviruses, and other enteric viruses.

Source: UG
Rotavirus strain distribution in Ghana pre- and post- rotavirus vaccine introduction

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
Rotavirus Vaccination and the Global Burden of Rotavirus Diarrhea Among Children Younger Than 5 Years

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
Rotavirus vaccine efficacy in African and Asian countries Reply

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
Rotavirus Vaccine Take in Infants Is Associated With Secretor Status

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
Rotavirus VP4 and VP7 Genotypes Circulating in Cameroon: Identification of Unusual Types

The main research focus of the Electron Microscopy and Histopathology Department in the past 20 years has been in the areas of enteric diarrhoeas with special emphasis on rotavirus. Through its diarrhoea surveillance studies, the Department has helped to firmly establish rotaviruses as a major cause of diarrhoea in children, and document the circulation of unusual rotavirus genotypes in Ghana. The Department has also recently expanded its diagnostic repertoire to include the identification and characterization of noroviruses, astroviruses, and other enteric viruses.

Source: UG
Roundtable: Is Pregnancy Getting Safer for Women? Dear Minister

The Department of Immunology conducts research in the field of immunology of infectious and non-infectious diseases. The Department has the overall goal of contributing knowledge to better diagnosis, management, control and prevention of infectious and non-infectious diseases in Ghana and worldwide. This is consistent with the overall strategy of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) and in line with the strategy of the College of Health Sciences of the University of Ghana.

Source: UG
Routine Health Information System (RHIS) interventions to improve health systems management

This is the protocol for a review and there is no abstract. The ob jectives are as follows: The aim of the Cochrane review is to assess the effects of interv entions to improve routine health information systems for h ealth systems management. The objectives are to: • identify and describe the characteristics of interventions to i mprove routine health information systems (RHISs) for healt h systems management; • to assess the effectiveness of interventions in terms of impr oved RHIS performance, improved health systems management performance and improved health status and population healt h outcomes; • to better understand and interpret the context of effectivene ss studies, as identified in findings of qualitative and proces s evaluation studies that are associated with included effectiv eness studies

Source: UG
Routine medical and dental examinations: a case study of adults in Tema community 20 in Ghana

Routine medical and dental examinations are important and effective measures in the prevention of diseases and promotion of good health. A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among adult residents in Community 20, Tema. The study randomly sampled 216 adults aged over 18 years. These participants were interviewed after informed consent was obtained. Sociodemographic factors associated with routine medical and dental examinations were determined using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Weighted mean was used to determine the level of perceived importance of medical and dental examination. A total of 68.1% and 31.9% of the adults have ever undergone routine medical and dental examination, respectively. Personal reasons constituted 35.4% for medical examination and 55.1% for dental examination. Medical and dental examinations encourage adults to be health conscious was ranked highest with a weighted mean of 3.78. Routine medical and dental examinations were higher among adults over 50 years, males, higher educated adults, higher income earners and the unmarried. Most of the adults indicated that medical and dental examinations were very important. Routine medical and dental examinations encourage adults to be health conscious. Routine medical and dental examinations were higher among adults over 50 years. Public health education programs should educate and encourage the general public especially among the younger population to undergo routine medical and dental examinations annually

Source: UG
The Royal African: Or, Memoirs of the Young Prince of Annamaboe.

The Royal African: or, Memoirs of the Young Prince of Annamaboe. Comprehending a distinct Account of his Country and Family; his elder brother's Voyage to France, and Reception there; the Manner in which himself was confided by his Father to the Captain who sold him; his Condition while a Slave in Barbadoes; the true cause of his bring redeemed; his Voyage from thence; and Reception here in England.

Source: UG
The rs150311303 polymorphism in FcγRIIa enhances IgG binding capacity

The Department of Immunology conducts research in the field of immunology of infectious and non-infectious diseases. The Department has the overall goal of contributing knowledge to better diagnosis, management, control and prevention of infectious and non-infectious diseases in Ghana and worldwide. This is consistent with the overall strategy of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) and in line with the strategy of the College of Health Sciences of the University of Ghana.

Source: UG
RTS,S/AS01E immunization increases antibody responses to vaccine-unrelated Plasmodium falciparum antigens associated with protection against clinical malaria in African children: A case-control study

The Department of Immunology conducts research in the field of immunology of infectious and non-infectious diseases. The Department has the overall goal of contributing knowledge to better diagnosis, management, control and prevention of infectious and non-infectious diseases in Ghana and worldwide. This is consistent with the overall strategy of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) and in line with the strategy of the College of Health Sciences of the University of Ghana.

Source: UG
RTS,S/AS01E vaccine defaults in Ghana: a qualitative exploration of the perspectives of defaulters and frontline health service providers

Background While Ghana has a good track record in the Expanded Programme on Immunization, there are sub stantial challenges with regards to subsequent vaccinations, particularly after the frst year of life of the child. Given that the last dose of the RTS, S/AS01E vaccine against malaria is administered at 24 months, there is a high likelihood of default. Hence, it is imperative to understand the dynamics and reasons for the defaults to enable the develop ment of efective implementation strategies. This study explored why caregivers default on the RTS, S/AS01E vaccine from the perspective of health service providers and caregivers. Methods This study employed an exploratory, descriptive approach. Using a purposive sampling technique, caregiv ers who defaulted and health service providers directly involved in the planning and delivery of the RTS, S/AS01E vaccine at the district level were recruited. A total of fve health service providers and 30 mothers (six per FGD) par ticipated in this study. Data analysis was done using NVivo-12 following Collaizi’s thematic framework for qualitative analysis. The study relies on the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research. Results Reasons for defaulting included the overlap of timing of the last dose and the child starting school, dis respectful attitudes of some health service providers, concerns about adverse side efects and discomforts, travel out of the implementing district, the perception that the vaccines are too many, and lack of support from partners. Conclusion To reduce the occurrence of defaulting on the RTS, S/AS01E vaccine programme, stakeholders must reconsider the timing of the last dose of the vaccine. The schedule of the RTS, S/AS01E vaccine should be aligned with the established EPI schedule of Ghana. This will signifcantly limit the potential of defaults, particularly for the last dose. Also, the fndings from this study underscore a need to encourage male partner involvement in the RTS, S/AS01E vaccine programme. Health promotion programmes could be implemented to raise caregivers’ awareness of potential adverse reactions and discomforts—this is necessary to prepare the caregiver for the vaccine process psychologically.

Source: UG
Rum, Gin and Maize: Deities and Ritual Change in the Gold Coast during the Atlantic Era (16th century to 1850)

This paper examines the incorporation of rum and gin as powerful spiritual drinks in pre-colonial Gold Coast, particularly in the context of state formation and warfare, and the growing importance of maize, side by side with the indigenous yam, as the food of gods. Through food and drink, we analyze changing notions of spiritual efficacy and the ascendancy of war deities, and we interrogate how shifts in socio-political contexts aligned with those in the spiritual realm. Why were European liquors like gin, rum, and schnapps incorporated into ritual on the Gold Coast and not others? We juxtapose geographically dispersed ritual landscapes, contrasting the Atlantic coast and its immediate hinterland with a case study from the northern Guan in our endeavor to understand how far-reaching were Atlantic processes, as well as the “logic” of ritual transformation.

Source: UG
Running Bead: Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Professionals

Over the past decade breastfeeding promotion, with a strong bias for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, is accounting for a gradual reversal in the decline of breastfeeding noticed in African countries in the late 1970's. Although there has been some increase in the rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Ghana, this rate falls significantly after the. first two months, as complementary feeding before the sixth month is common. Despite the decline in the rate of exclusive breastfeeding after the second month, some mothers sustain the practice up to the sixth month. A qualitative design was employed to investigate what has facilitated the practice of exclusive breastfeeding for four to six months among professionals. Ten professionals were purposefully sampled. In-depth audiotaped interviews were conducted in English. The results indicated that commitment was a strong enabling factor of exclusive breastfeeding practice, with education playing a key role. Commitment did not work in isolation. Direct facilitators like the availability of time, support and engagement in exclusive breastfeeding-related activities enhanced the role of commitment. Although some barriers that were potentially deterrent to the practice of exclusive breastfeeding were reported, the combined effect of commitment and direct facilitators enabled the practice for four to six months. Among strategies that could be used to increase and sustain the adoption of exclusive breastfeeding is the strengthening of the educational component of the breastfeeding, promotion programme that contributes to a better understanding of the completeness of breastmilk as both food and drink for the infant. Other strategies include drawing on the experiences of women who have successfully exclusively breastfed, the establishment of self-help breastfeeding support groups and training health professionals in lactation management.

Source: UG
Running water sound technique in contrast-based voiding cystourethrogram: A case–control study

Background An intervention that can reduce the patient void time during a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) procedure can reduce the total radiation dose to the patient. This is because a delay in voiding leads to a high number of intermittent screenings to monitor if voiding occurs. This study assessed the impact of running-water sound (RWS) upon patients' voiding parameters and fluoroscopy screening times during VCUG examinations among children and adults. Materials and methods A case–control study involving 252 patients was undertaken which consisted two groups (control and test) of adults and children. The test groups underwent VCUG with RWS technique while the control groups underwent the procedure normally. T-test was used to compare the study parameters between the two groups and a p-value less than 0.05 was interpreted as significant. Results The mean screening times (s) for children who underwent VCUG with and without RWS were 17.15 ± 2.5s and 30.61 ± 5.1s respectively (p = 0.0024). For adults, the RWS technique recorded a mean screening time of 37.36 ± 4.4s while the non-RWS procedures recorded 49.80 ± 5.2s (p = 0.001). The participants who received RWS intervention also felt the urge to void earlier than those who received no RWS intervention. The differences were also statistically significant for both children and adults. Conclusion The study being one of the first in this subject area indicates that the application of RWS technique induces early urge of iodinated-contrast voiding, and reduces voiding and fluoroscopy screening times during VCUG among children and adults. This simple technique can potentially enhance current practice.

Source: UG
Ruptured uterus: A seven-year review of cases from Accra, Ghana.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence, causes, management, and the means of prevention of uterine rupture, as well as the characteristics of women with the condition, recorded in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. DESIGN: A retrospective study between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2001. RESULTS: During the study period, of 82061 deliveries at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, 193 women developed uterine rupture, an incidence of 2.4 per 1000 deliveries. Of these 193 women, 24.6% had had a previous Caesarean section. The most frequent associated factor of uterine rupture was prolonged labour (33.6%). The perinatal mortality rate was 74.3%. Almost 70% (66.9%) of women underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy as management. The case fatality rate was 1.0%. CONCLUSION: A more vigilant approach to preventing prolonged and obstructed labour in delivery units within and around Accra, Ghana, is required to reduce the incidence of this condition.

Source: UG
Ruptures, Junctures, and Difference: The Role of Music and Ritual Performance in Framing “Tradition” in Contemporary Royal Ceremonies, Ghana

Royal rituals and festivities are vibrant sites of cultural continuity among the Ewe of Ghana. The rituals exhibit elements of hyperreal, sonic, and sacred/secular sensibilities that frame performance and embodied affectivity. The royal event complex engages the multisensory, the carnivalesque and interstices of the sacred/secular in Ewe spirituality and religious outlook.

Source: UG
Rural healthcare providers coping with clinical care delivery challenges: lessons from three health centres in Ghana

Background: Rural settings in low- and middle-income countries are bedeviled with poverty and high disease burden, and lack adequate resources to deliver quality healthcare to the population. Drug shortage and inadequate number and skill-mix of healthcare providers is very common in rural health facilities. Hence, rural healthcare providers have no choice but to be innovative and introduce some strategies to cope with health delivery challenges at the health centre levels. This study explored how and why rural healthcare providers cope with clinical care delivery challenges at the health centre levels in Ghana. Methods: This study was a multiple case studies involving three districts: Bongo, Kintampo North, and Juaboso districts. In each case study district, a cross-sectional design was used to explore the research question. Purposive sampling technique was used to select study sites and the study participants. The authors conducted 11 interviews, 9 focus group discussions (involving 61 participants), and 9-week participant observation (in 3 health centres). Transcription of the voice-recordings was done verbatim, cleaned and imported into the Nvivo version 11 platform for analysis. Data was analysed using the inductive content analysis approach. Ethical clearance was granted by the Ethics Review Committee of the Ghana Health Service. Results: The study found three main coping strategies (borrowing, knowledge sharing and multi-tasking). First, borrowing arrangements among primary health care institutions help to address the periodic shortage of medical supplies at the health centres. Secondly, knowledge sharing among healthcare providers mitigates skills gap during service delivery; and finally, rural healthcare providers use multi-tasking to avert staff inadequacy challenges during service delivery at the health centre levels. Conclusion: Borrowing, knowledge sharing, and multi-tasking are coping strategies that are sustaining and potentially improving health outcomes at the district levels in Ghana. We recommend that health facilities across all levels of care in Ghana and other settings with similar challenges could adopt and modify these strategies in order to ensure quality healthcare delivery amidst delivery challenges

Source: UG
Rural practice preferences among medical students in Ghana: A discrete choice experiment.

Objective To determine how specific job attributes influenced fourth year medical students' stated preference for hypothetical rural job postings in Ghana. Methods Based on discussions with medical student focus groups and physicians in practice and in the Ministry of Health, we created a discrete choice experiment (DCE) that assessed how students' stated preference for certain rural postings was influenced by various job attributes: a higher salary, free superior housing, an educational allowance for children, improved equipment, supportive management, shorter contracts before study leave and a car. We conducted the DCE among all fourth year medical students in Ghana using a brief structured questionnaire and used mixed logit models to estimate the utility of each job attribute. Findings Complete data for DCE analysis were available for 302 of 310 (97%) students. All attribute parameter estimates differed significantly from zero and had the expected signs. In the main effects mixed logit model, improved equipment and supportive management were most strongly associated with job preference (? = 1.42; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.17 to 1.66, and ? = 1.17; 95% CI: 0.96 to 1.39, respectively), although shorter contracts and salary bonuses were also associated. Discontinuing the provision of basic housing had a large negative influence (? = -1.59; 95% CI: -1.88 to -1.31). In models including gender interaction terms, women's preferences were more influenced by supportive management and men's preferences by superior housing. Conclusion Better working conditions were strongly associated with the stated choice of hypothetical rural postings among fourth year Ghanaian medical students. Studies are needed to find out whether job attributes determine the actual uptake of rural jobs by graduating physicians.

Source: UG
Rural response system to prevent violence against women: methodology for a community randomised controlled trial in the central region of Ghana

Violence against women (VAW) is common in Ghana, with nation-wide surveys reporting high prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) (physical, sexual and/or emotional violence). Our trial assesses the community level impact of the Rural Response System which uses Community-Based Action Teams ‘COMBAT’ for preventing VAW in Ghana. This study is a mixed method unmatched cluster randomised controlled trial and includes rural (n = 23), peri-urban (n = 7) and urban (n = 10) communities in four districts of the Central Region, Ghana. The trial will last three years with one baseline survey, one impact assessment and a qualitative baseline, midpoint and endline evaluation. A total of 40 localities were selected to serve as clusters (20 per trial arm) with about 82 households per cluster recruited at baseline. The same number will be recruited post-intervention. Adult women (18 to 49 years) and men (≥ 18 years) were drawn from different localities. Sampling of households within a community was random and done using a computerised system. In each selected household, one female or male resident was invited to participate. Individuals are eligible for inclusion in the study if they usually live (sleep and eat) in the household, have lived in the community for at least a year, and are between the ages of 18-to-49 years old. Our impact assessment component will compare past 12 months incidence of IPV (i.e. IPV experiences for women and perpetration of physical and/or sexual IPV for men) between arms in the trial. The implementation of this community trial comes at an opportune time when evidence on the effectiveness of a targeted VAW intervention in the Ghanaian society is needed to inform the development of national policies for preventing VAW. Our progressive research approach using a mixed method design will further extend knowledge globally on a multifaceted intervention to reduce the incidence of intimate partner violence in a developing country.

Source: UG