ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Assessment of microbiological contamination of some indigenous spices sold in selected markets in the Kumasi Metropolis

This study was carried out to assess the postharvest handling practices carried out on spices sold in the Kumasi Metropolis. The study was necessitated by the paucity of information on handling practices carried out on spices in Ghana. A survey was conducted in the Kumasi Metropolis covering farmers, wholesalers, retailers, and processors. Postharvest handling practices and microbial contamination of hot pepper and ginger at the Central, Asafo, and Bantama Markets in the Kumasi Metropolis were assessed. Total Viable Count, Mould Count, and Total Coliforms population were determined at various points being; farmer, wholesaler, retailer and processors points. The study revealed that the pepper was the leading spices sold in the Kumasi Metropolis. Farmers did not dry their pepper and ginger prior to selling them. Vehicles used were generally, not clean. Majority (86.2%) of the traders sun-dried their spices but on bare floor while others (10.3%) dried using polythene platform and raised platform (3.5%).Traders stored spices on polythene sheets, wooden pallets and on the bare floor. All (100%) the farmers reused their packaging materials without cleaning, washing or disinfecting them. The greatest postharvest loss of pepper was attributed to breakages (4.2%).Spices sold at the Central market were highest in total mould count (5.45 cfu/g) followed by Bantama market with a total mould count (5.39 cfu/g) while Asafo market recorded the least count (5.22 cfu/g). Spices sold at the Central Market were highest in total viable count (5.48 cfu). Microbiological study showed that the spices in Kumasi markets had unacceptable microbial quality. It is therefore important to ensure proper handling to protect consumer’s health and quality of spices.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of microbial quality of some traditional medicines on the Ghanaian market

It is of great importance to ensure the efficacy, stability and safety of Pharmaceutical products of which traditional medicines are no exception. Microbial contamination of Pharmaceutical products can have many adverse effects on the user. They may lead to spoilage through physical or chemical change and thus render the active constituents less potent and even toxic thereby presenting a 4 potential health hazard to users. In this study of “Microbial quality assessment of traditional medicines on the Ghanaian market” samples of traditional drugs were collected from manufacturing houses, pharmacies, licensed chemical shops, lorry stations and markets and tested for the presence or absence of micro-organisms and types of microorganism if present. In all 50 products were sampled for testing and were made up of 25 liquid preparations, 15 ointments and creams, 5 powders and 5 emulsions. It was found that 76% of the drugs tested were contaminated by either one or more of the following organisms: coagulase positive and negative staphylococci, E. coli and other enterobacteria, salmonellae, moulds, and yeast-like fungi. The study showed that most of the local traditional medicines on our market are not safe for use due to their poor microbial quality. Most of the products examined had harmful organisms, while others had aerobic viable counts in excess of the stipulated and acceptable limits of 1 per gram or per millilitre. The products might have been contaminated during production, packaging, handling or from the raw materials used. It is very essential to ensure microbial quality of all traditional herbal medicines on the Ghanaian market.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of microbiological quality of Biosolids produced from a mixture of Sawdust and Faecal Sludge

The use of raw sludge spread on land as conditioner and fertilizer has been practised over the years in urban agriculture. However, this raw sludge (biosolids) is associated with potential health risk as a result of pathogenic microorganisms it represents. The study considered the treatment option for faecal sludge (biosolids) for safe application as manure for agricultural use and assessed the physico-chemical and microbiological qualities of the biosolids produced from faecal sludge-sawdust mixture. A small scale faecal sludge treatment plant was installed. This consisted of 12 plastic container filter beds of 18 litres and depth of 75cm and width of 17.8cm. The bases of the containers were perforated and funnels fixed vertically to collect the percolate. The setup for the filter media was raised with respect to particle size. The profile of the bed from the bottom included 20 - 25mm size gravel of depth 15cm, followed by 10 - 15mm size gravel at 10cm and fine sand of sizes range between 0.10 and 0.50mm with depth of 20cm. The sludge consisted of public toilet sludge (PTS) and septage in the ratio of 1:3. Different quantities of sawdust of standard size between 1mm and 5mm (50%, 100% and 150%) were mixed with the sludge and applied for dewatering. Completely randomized design (CRD) was used. The sawdust-sludge mixture analysed after complete dewatering through implanted filter beds showed significant reduction in microbial (bacteria) content (P < 0.05). Other parameters including Biochemical Oxygen demand (BOD) and total solids (TS) reduced significantly except temperature and pH. The reduction was therefore significant (P < 0.05) making the biosolids produced safe to farmers and the environment. The high removal efficiency of parameters measured (Temperature, pH, Total solids, BOD, Faecal coliforms, Salmonella, E. coli and Helminth eggs) by the drying beds implies that they constitute a good option for solids-liquid separation in faecal sludge. The sawdust was therefore considered a good bulking agent for use with sewage sludges for dewatering. Helminth egg concentration and viability in the various sawdust percentages varied significantly (P < 0.05). 100% of the helminth eggs (viable and non viable) was retained in the biosolids. The largest viability of helminth eggs of 30.9% was recorded in the 100% sawdust while the least of 28.6% was obtained in the 150% sawdust with the50% sawdust recording 30.9%. Although percentage bulking agent improved the quality of the sludge, a greater pathogen removal was observed within the 150% sawdust whilst the least reduction was recorded in the 50% sawdust.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of Microbial Quality and Heavy Metal Levels of Raw Cattle Hide and Meat Sold At Retail Outlets in Tarkwa, Western Region, Ghana

The present study seeks to assess the microbial quality of raw beef as well as the concentration of heavy metals in cattle hide at retail outlets in the Tarkwa Municipality. A total of 384 replicated swab samples were taken from beef, knives, wooden boards, weighing scales, shop floor as well as workers hands. Also 24 replicated freshly singed and unsinged cattle hides were aseptically collected. Sampling was done at selected retail outlets in Central Market (Layout) and Karikwanaano Markets. Averagely, 2.55±0.27 (log10 cfu/cm²), 2.06±0.22 (log10 cfu/cm²), and 1.57±0.17 (log10 cfu/cm²) of total viable count (TVC), total coliform count (TCC) and total Staphylococcal Counts (TSC) were recorded respectively on all swab samples from retail outlets. There were significant microbial growth differences across the various retail sale environments. Microbial loads in the fresh swab sample (tvc = 1.36±0.21 (log10 cfu/cm²), tcc = 1.10±0.16 (log10 cfu/cm²), tsc = 0.87±0.13 (log10 cfu/cm²), were significantly lower than delayed swab samples (tvc = 3.74±0.37 (log10 cfu/cm²), tcc = 3.02±0.30 (log10 cfu/cm²), tsc = 2.28±0.24 (log10 cfu/cm²). Comparatively, a significant microbial growth (p < 0.05) was observed on the beef to the environmental equipment. The average pH reading in this study was slightly acidic (6.88±0.78), then peaking acidity in the afternoon. Foodborne pathogens isolated from beef, its processing equipments and the surrounding environment included Staphylococcus spp., Salmonella, Streptococcus spp., Escherichia coli. Enterobacter spp. and Klebsiella spp. 12 cattle hides were singed-treated with scrap tyres (T) while the remaining 12 were firewood processed. The control 24 hides were taken from the un-singed carcasses before the singeing took place. Samples of carcasses hides were analyzed for the concentrations of Fe, Pb, Cu and Zn. The average concentration of all heavy metal contents in hides recorded were lower than the maximum permissible limit except for Lead (Pb). However statistical significance difference between permissible limit (50mg/kg) and observed (23.44±5.70 mg/kg) was recorded only for iron (Fe).The type of processing method (unsinged, firewood-singed and tyre-singed) had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the levels of heavy metal content recorded in hide. Hide processed with scrap tyre recorded the highest level of heavy metal concentration to fire wood-singed. There was no significance difference (p > 0.05) on the level of heavy metal content of hide among the two retail markets. The microbial load of raw beef from retail outlet in Tarkwa Municipality is high which insinuates its possible role in spoilage in foodborne illness. Therefore there is the need for improvement in the standard of selling meat in Tarkwa Municipality. The hides treated with scrap tyres were unsafe for human consumption. Therefore there should be the enforcement of stringent laws in Ghana to stop local butchers from using scrap tyres as singeing material.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of Microfilarial load in the blood of patients with Mansonella Perstans infection after anti-wolbachial treatment with Doxycycline

Mansonella perstans is a vector-borne parasite; transmitted by tiny female bloodsucking insects of the genus Culicoides (biting midges). It is more prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa. Most antifilarial drugs including ivermectin and DEC, and also benzimidazoles such as mebendazole, albendazole, levamisole, and thiabendazole, have proven ineffective against M. perstans. Therefore, this study was undertaken to assess the efficacy of doxycycline against M. perstans in the Asante Akim North District of Ghana. The study was an open randomized trial conducted in 8 communities of the Asante Akim North District. Out of a total of 1,229 individuals microscopically screened, 405 individuals were microfilaria-positive representing an overall prevalence of 33.0%. There was no significant difference (p=0.0568) between prevalence among males and females. Based on the findings from the initial blood samples, 102 eligible individuals were randomized to Early and Delayed groups. Individuals received 200mg of doxycycline daily for 6 weeks. The former group started medication at the initial stage while treatment was delayed for 6 months in the latter group. Five individuals who were not available during treatment, served as controls. Blood samples were taken and analyzed for microfilaria at 4 and 12 months of the study period. There was no significant difference (p=0.7655) between treatment groups at baseline level. Microfilarial load reduced marginally at 4 months even though there was no significant difference (p=0.5559) between the two treatment groups. However, at 12 months, the efficacy of doxycycline was evident. The Early group had a drastic reduction of microfilarial load resulting in significant difference between the two groups (p<0.0001). The distribution of microfilarial load among the controls throughout the study time points was relatively constant. A total of 10 individuals reported mild adverse events that resolved spontaneously. A well-designed specific real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to confirm M. perstans in the blood. Although PCR is arguably very sensitive, microscopy still remains reliable in the detection of M. perstans.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of non-formal education programme in Ghana: (a case study in Ashanti Region)

The Non-Formal Education Programme was established with the aim of providing selected types of learning for a particular sub-group of the population. But recent studies indicate that there are some major problems affecting the effectiveness of the progamme. The survey conducted by the researcher within the districts in the Ashanti region revealed lapses in the activity of the progmmme. Many people and as well as the stake holders of Education in the private sector, have questioned the efficacy of the programme. The inability to attract and retain staff members, low morale among staff members, and lack of continuous funding are among major problems, which have affected the running of the programme in Ghana. The research, therefore, has assessed the strengths and weaknesses of the Non-Formal Education Programme in the Ashanti Region. The researcher used the descriptive research method for this thesis. The major research instruments used to collect the necessary data were questionnaires, interviews and observations.. Valid and reliable data collected have been assembled, analysed and discussed thoroughly. The major findings of the study include the fact that reading and writing activities were found to be the basic rational of the literacy programme. Facilitators are not neither paid on monthly basis nor given any allowance or whatsoever. Again, English language has not yet been introduced in the programme. Lessons are mostly held in the evenings after a hard day’s work. Classes are held in church rooms or community centres. Finally, a number of suggestions and recommendations have been made for the sustenance and improvement of the Non-Formal Education Programme in Ghana. The main recommendations include the fact that the Government of Ghana should come out with a mass literacy campaign policy to attract or draw a large number of people most especially functionally illiterate males into the illiteracy programme. Seminars, film shows, radio programmes should be organized frequently as a supplement to what takes place in the various learning classes.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of Nutritional Status of the Aged in the West Gonja District In Northern Region of Ghana

World Health Organization (WHO) defines people of age 65 and above as “old age”. Data shows a rapid growing trend of the older persons, especially in developing countries of which Ghana is not an exception, In-spite of this increasing trend, little has so far been documented on the nutritional status and associated factors of the aged in Ghana, which can contribute to formulating appropriate policies for this vulnerable group. To help address this, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 participants, of them were individuals 65 years or above at the West Gonja District, Ghana to assess their nutritional status and its associated factors. Respondents were selected from twenty-five (25) communities, and a structured questionnaire was used to elicit response on sociodemographic status, dietary habits and food choices, and morbidity. Anthropometric measurements, including height and weight were taken, from which BMIs were calculated. Nutrient analysis template was used extract specific total nutrient values per 100g whilst data entry and analysis was done using statistical package of social sciences (SPSS) version 23 with p< 0.05 considered as statistical significant. Pearson chi-square correlation and regression were used to establish the relationship between exposure and outcome variables. Among the 384 respondents, 161(41.9%) were males and 223(58.1%) were females. In total, malnutrition was (43.8%) among the respondents with Underweight (27.9%), 56.2% were of normal BMI while few (15.9%) were either obese or overweight. Majority of the respondent (79.9%) consumed three meals a day, 15.1% consumed two meals a day whilst 2.9% was once a day. A significant association (p=0.001) was observed between meal frequency and nutritional status, with overweight/obese participants recording greater meal frequency compared with underweight/normal participants. Equally, a Chi square analysis showed a significant association between protein intake (p<0.001), total fat intake (p<0.012) and carbohydrate intake (p=0.216) with BMI status. A significant association was also observed between weight loss and BMI (P=0.002), morbidity (p=0.012), having personal food preferences (p=0.001) and being on diet (p=0.002). Generally, micronutrient intake among the respondents was very poor with 48.4% of the respondents having low iron intake while none of the respondents meeting the RDAs for calcium. In conclusion, the findings shows greater proportion of the participants being malnourished, Significant association between meal frequencies and BMI status, macronutrient and BMI status, and lastly, BMI status, morbidity, food preferences, and being on diet with weight loss. Further study is recommended on how food quality is related to the nutritional status of the elderly.

Source: KNUST
An assessment of occupational health and safety practices on job performance at the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital, Mampong-Akuapem.

Recent accidents occurring in most companies in Ghana should be a source of worry to everyone. Most employers fail to put in place adequate health and safety measures in place at their workplace to safeguard not only the employees and management but also clients/customers and other stakeholders who might have some kind of interest in the company or institution. Ineffective occupational health and safety policy have a negative effect on the organization as well as the workforce. Some of these include, cost of wages paid for time lost, cost of damage to material or equipment, cost of overtime work required as a result of accidents etc. It is against this background that the researcher decided to research into the area. The topic for the work was an assessment of occupational health and safety practices on job performance at the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital,Mampong-Akuapem. Being a health institution, the staff, management, patients and other stakeholders are expose to several risks and hazards. The research aimed among other things to examine the effect of occupational health and safety on job performance. The medical doctors/officers, administrators, technicians, cooks, nurses etc in the departments and units of the hospital formed the population of the study. Eighty respondents formed the sample size of the study. Data was collected through questionnaire, interviews and review of relevant literature from books, articles, website etc. It was found out that the current occupational health and safety practices at the hospital were inadequate. Staff commitment and compliance to health and safety rules was also low. It was recommended that management of the hospital constitute a safety committee and maintain regular monitoring, inspection and evaluation and conduct reviews for improvement.

Source: KNUST
An assessment of occupational health and safety requirements on the Ayanfuri resettlement project in Ghana

Construction projects involve a lot of hazards and hazardous activities. There are several legislative frameworks that seek to address occupational health and safety at various workplaces in Ghana. However, incidents and near misses usually occur, and may result in disabilities and fatalities if the necessary steps are not taken. The aim of the study is to audit and review occupational health and safety requirements on the Ayanfuri Resettlement project for improvement. The objectives are to identify the occupational health and safety requirements on the Ayanfuri Resettlement project, assess the level of awareness of personnel involved in the project of the occupational health and safety requirements, identify shortfalls and outline ways of improving the shortfalls in the requirements. The research adopted a quantitative research method where all 56 personnel involved with the project were sampled. Numbers mostly presented as frequencies and percentages were used to depict responses from respondents. The study established that 60.00% of project managers/ coordinators and supervisors say there is no project management plan being used on the project, there is no permanent OHS officer on the project, 57.10% of the respondents said no to first aid boxes at their work areas, 65.50% said no to the conduction of safety emergency simulations and although no documented safety management plan, most workers were aware of their duties and responsibilities when it comes to safety. These imply there may be lapses in the management of occupational health and safety on the project. It was, however, recommended that the project managers and project team members develop a safety management plan for the project, a permanent OHS officer be employed to be part of the project team, first aid boxes to be made available at all work areas and the frequent conduction of simulation drills.

Source: KNUST
Assessment of Nutritional Status of the Aged in the West Gonja District In Northern Region of Ghana

World Health Organization (WHO) defines people of age 65 and above as “old age”. Data shows a rapid growing trend of the older persons, especially in developing countries of which Ghana is not an exception, In-spite of this increasing trend, little has so far been documented on the nutritional status and associated factors of the aged in Ghana, which can contribute to formulating appropriate policies for this vulnerable group. To help address this, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 participants, of them were individuals 65 years or above at the West Gonja District, Ghana to assess their nutritional status and its associated factors. Respondents were selected from twenty-five (25) communities, and a structured questionnaire was used to elicit response on socio-demographic status, dietary habits and food choices, and morbidity. Anthropometric measurements, including height and weight were taken, from which BMIs were calculated. Nutrient analysis template was used extract specific total nutrient values per 100g whilst data entry and analysis was done using statistical package of social sciences (SPSS) version 23 with p< 0.05 considered as statistical significant. Pearson chi-square correlation and regression were used to establish the relationship between exposure and outcome variables. Among the 384 respondents, 161(41.9%) were males and 223(58.1%) were females. In total, malnutrition was (43.8%) among the respondents with Underweight (27.9%), 56.2% were of normal BMI while few (15.9%) were either obese or overweight. Majority of the respondent (79.9%) consumed three meals a day, 15.1% consumed two meals a day whilst 2.9% was once a day. A significant association (p=0.001) was observed between meal frequency and nutritional status, with overweight/obese participants recording greater meal frequency compared with underweight/normal participants. Equally, a Chi square analysis showed a significant association between protein intake (p<0.001), total fat intake (p<0.012) and carbohydrate intake (p=0.216) with BMI status. A significant association was also observed between weight loss and BMI (P=0.002), morbidity (p=0.012), having personal food preferences (p=0.001) and being on diet (p=0.002). Generally, micronutrient intake among the respondents was very poor with 48.4% of the respondents having low iron intake while none of the respondents meeting the RDAs for calcium. In conclusion, the findings shows greater proportion of the participants being malnourished, Significant association between meal frequencies and BMI status, macronutrient and BMI status, and lastly, BMI status, morbidity, food preferences, and being on diet with weight loss. Further study is recommended on how food quality is related to the nutritional status of the elderly.

Source: KNUST