ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Assessment of mental distress among prison inmates in Ghana’s correctional system: a cross-sectional study using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale

Abstract Background Applying global estimates of the prevalence of mental disorders suggests that about 2.4 million Ghanaians have some form of psychiatric distress. Despite the facts that relatively little community-based treatment is available (only 18 psychiatrists are known to actively practice in Ghana), and that mental disorders are more concentrated among the incarcerated, there is no known research on mental disorders in Ghana prisons, and no forensic mental health services available to those who suffer from them. This study sought to determine the rate of mental distress among prisoners in Ghana. Methods This cross-sectional research used the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale to estimate the rates and severity of non-specific psychological distress among a stratified probability sample of 89 male and 11 female prisoners in one of the oldest correctional facilities in the country. Fisher’s exact test was used to determine the rates of psychological distress within the study population. Results According to the Kessler Scale, more than half of all respondents had moderate to severe mental distress in the four weeks preceding their interviews. Nearly 70% of inmates with only a primary education had moderate to severe mental distress. Though this was higher than the rates among inmates with more education, it exceeded the rates for those with no education. Conclusions The high rate of moderate to severe mental distress among the inmates in this exploratory study should serve as baseline for further studies into mental disorders among the incarcerated persons in Ghana. Future research should use larger samples, include more prison facilities, and incorporate tools that can identify specific mental disorders.

Source: UG
Assessment of mental distress among prison inmates in Ghana's correctional system: A cross-sectional study using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale

Applying global estimates of the prevalence of mental disorders suggests that about 2.4 million Ghanaians have some form of psychiatric distress. Despite the facts that relatively little community-based treatment is available (only 18 psychiatrists are known to actively practice in Ghana), and that mental disorders are more concentrated among the incarcerated, there is no known research on mental disorders in Ghana prisons, and no forensic mental health services available to those who suffer from them. This study sought to determine the rate of mental distress among prisoners in Ghana. Methods: This cross-sectional research used the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale to estimate the rates and severity of non-specific psychological distress among a stratified probability sample of 89 male and 11 female prisoners in one of the oldest correctional facilities in the country. Fisher's exact test was used to determine the rates of psychological distress within the study population. Results: According to the Kessler Scale, more than half of all respondents had moderate to severe mental distress in the four weeks preceding their interviews. Nearly 70% of inmates with only a primary education had moderate to severe mental distress. Though this was higher than the rates among inmates with more education, it exceeded the rates for those with no education. Conclusions: The high rate of moderate to severe mental distress among the inmates in this exploratory study should serve as baseline for further studies into mental disorders among the incarcerated persons in Ghana. Future research should use larger samples, include more prison facilities, and incorporate tools that can identify specific mental disorders. © Ibrahim et al.; licensee BioMed Central.

Source: UG
Assessment of Midwives on Active Management of Third Stage of Labour in Osogbo, Nigeria

Active management of third stage of labour is one of the important strategies for reducing postpartum haemorrhage which is the leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. In Nigeria, the maternal mortality ratio is as high as 1,500 per 100,000 live births making 10% of the world’s maternal death annually and ranks second globally in the number of maternal death. The aim of this study was to assess midwives on active management of third stage of labour in Osogbo, Nigeria. A quantitative approach of cross-sectional survey was used to obtain information relevant to the research questions. Three hundred (300) midwives who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected using purposive non probability sampling technique. Structured questionnaires were administered to the midwives who fulfilled the inclusion criteria after filling out the consent form. The completed 300 questionnaires were retrieved (response rate was 100%) and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Findings suggest that female, midwives who are Christians, working at the tertiary healthcare facility and have been practicing between 1 to 5 years were more likely to have more knowledge and practice of AMTSL. However, there was no barrier identified in this study by the midwives for not practicing AMTSL but that does not mean there are no barriers. Hence, it is important that healthcare agencies should be organizing seminars and workshops on AMTSL frequently to get the midwives who have been practicing for over 16 years updated on the new guidelines on AMTSL and should ensure proper supevision and monitoring to enhance adherence to standard on AMTSL.

Source: UG
An assessment of mosquito collection techniques for xenomonitoring of anopheline-transmitted Lymphatic Filariasis in Ghana

The Department of Parasitology conducts research into parasitic diseases of public health importance with the overall goal of reducing their transmission and the heavy disease burden that they impose on affected populations. The Department maintains focus on parasitic diseases in general. These include major diseases such as malaria, and others listed under the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) control initiative such as, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis, trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis.

Source: UG
An Assessment of Multi-Party Elections in Post-Conflict Countries in Africa: The Case of Sierra Leone

This study assesses how post-conflict countries in Africa fare when they transition into democracy through the vehicle of multi-party elections. The study, particularly, focuses on Sierra Leone which was ravaged by a protracted civil war which started in 1991 and lasted till 2002. Using a methodology that combines primary and secondary sources of data, the study seeks to answer four questions bordering on the nature of multi-party elections in post-conflict Sierra Leone; sociopolitical effects of multi-party elections in post-conflict Sierra Leone; challenges of multi-party elections in post-conflict Sierra Leone and the future of multi-party elections in post-conflict Sierra Leone. The findings show that Sierra Leone has been quite successful in maintaining its peace and stability through the conduct of multi-party elections. For example, multi-party elections have opened the space for all actors, including ex-combatants, to legitimately seek power. Quiet, significantly, the country has successfully conducted four general elections (2002; 2007; 2012 and 2018) which have resulted in the smooth transfer of power, from incumbent governments to opposition parties, on two occasions (2007 and 2018). Even though the study also found that there are some lingering challenges, particularly regarding high unemployment among the youth and low representation of women in governance, most people interviewed for the study remain optimistic that there are bright prospects for multi-party elections and multi-party democracy in Sierra Leone.

Source: UG
Assessment of Neonatal Mortality and Associated Hospital-Related Factors in Healthcare Facilities Within Sunyani and Sunyani West Municipal Assemblies in Bono Region, Ghana

Objectives: Ghana’s quest to reduce neonatal mortality, in hospital facilities and communities, continues to be a nightmare. The pursuit of achieving healthy lives and well-being for neonates as enshrined in Sustainable Development Goal three lingered in challenging hospital facilities and communities. Notwithstanding that, there have been increasing efforts in that direction. This study examines the contributing factors that hinder the fight against neonatal mortality in all hospital facilities in the Sunyani and Sunyani West Municipal Assemblies in Bono Region, Ghana. Methods: The study utilized neonatal mortality data consisting of neonatal deaths, structural facility related variables, medical human resources, types of hospital facilities and natal care. The data was collected longitudinally from 2014 to 2019. These variables were analysed using the negative binomial hurdle regression (NBH) model to determine factors that contribute to this menace at the facility level. Cause-specific deaths were obtained to determine the leading causes of neonatal deaths within health facilities in the two municipal assemblies. Results: The study established that the leading causes of neonatal mortality in these districts are birth asphyxia (46%), premature birth (33%), neonatal sepsis (11%) and neonatal jaundice (7%). The NBH showed that neonatal mortality in hospital facilities depend on the num ber of incubators, monitoring equipment, hand washing facilities, CPAPb machines, radiant warmers, physiotherapy machines, midwives, paediatric doctors and paediatric nurses in the hospital facility. Conclusions: Early management of neonatal sepsis, birth asphyxia, premature birth and neonatal infections is required to reduce neonatal deaths. The government and all stakeholders in the health sector should provide all hospital facilities with the essential equipment and the medical human resources necessary to eradicate the menace. This will make the realization of Sustainable Development Goal three, which calls for healthy lives and well-being for all, a reality.

Source: UG
Assessment of NSAIDs as potential inhibitors of the fatty acid amide hydrolase I (FAAH-1) using three different primary fatty acid amide substrates in vitro

Background: Pain relief remains a major subject of inadequately met need of patients. Therapeutic agents designed to treat pain and inflammation so far have low to moderate efficiencies with significant untoward side effects. FAAH-1 has been proposed as a promising target for the discovery of drugs to treat pain and inflammation without significant adverse effects. FAAH-1 is the primary enzyme accountable for the degradation of AEA and related fatty acid amides. Studies have revealed that the simultaneous inhibition of COX and FAAH-1 activities produce greater pharmacological efficiency with significantly lowered toxicity and ulcerogenic activity. Recently, the metabolism of endocannabinoids by COX-2 was suggested to be differentially regulated by NSAIDs. Methods: We analysed the affinity of oleamide, arachidonamide and stearoylamide at the FAAH-1 in vitro and investigated the potency of selected NSAIDs on the hydrolysis of endocannabinoid-like molecules (oleamide, arachidonamide and stearoylamide) by FAAH-1 from rat liver. NSAIDs were initially screened at 500 μM after which those that exhibited greater potency were further analysed over a range of inhibitor concentrations. Results: The substrate affinity of FAAH-1 obtained, increased in a rank order of oleamide < arachidonamide < stearoylamide with resultant Vmax values in a rank order of arachidonamide > oleamide > stearoylamide. The selected NSAIDs caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of FAAH-1 activity with sulindac, carprofen and meclofenamate exhibiting the greatest potency. Michaelis-Menten analysis suggested the mode of inhibition of FAAH-1 hydrolysis of both oleamide and arachidonamide by meclofenamate and indomethacin to be non-competitive in nature. Conclusion: Our data therefore suggest potential for study of these compounds as combined FAAH-1-COX inhibitors.

Source: UG
Assessment of occupational stress among certified registered anesthetists in the Greater Accra region

Background: Work-related stress is a prevailing concern within the community of Certified Registered Anesthetists (CRAs), significantly impacting both the health and professional performance of these individuals. This study aimed to assess work-related stress and its influencing factors among CRAs practicing in the Greater Accra region was examined. Methods: Using convenience sampling techniques, data were gathered from 140 participants via a Google form questionnaire distributed through WhatsApp. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the collected data, focusing on frequencies and proportions for categorical variables. For continuous variables, bivariate analysis (Chi-square) and ordinal logistic regression were conducted using STATA 16. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among the 140 CRAs, 20 individuals (14.3%) reported experiencing mild stress levels according to the Weiman Occupational Stress Scale. Approximately 3 out of 4 CRAs (73.6%) reported having moderate stress levels, and 12.1% reported severe stress levels. This indicated that the majority of CRAs experienced moderate levels of stress, which was notably affected by the type of health facility and the use of inadequate or sub-standard equipment in the hospitals. Conclusion: Based on these findings, the study recommends educational programs and counseling for CRAs to heighten awareness of the demanding nature of their job. Additionally, it suggests the provision of proper resources and standard equipment for CRAs. Facility-level motivation for CRAs is also advised to alleviate their stress. Finally, the study proposes further investigations into the factors contributing to work-related stress among CRAs.

Source: UG
Assessment of oral health status in a Ghanaian population: rationale, methods, and population characteristics

Background: Oral health surveys aid in estimating the oral health of a population and provide a projection for future oral health care needs. We report the procedures and rationale of a survey carried out to assess the oral health status and risk factors for oral disease among adults in the Greater Accra Region (GAR) of Ghana. The objective was to pro vide prevalence estimates on dental diseases, oral health behaviour and risk factors, and to establish baseline epide miological data on the population’s oral health for further research. Methods: This was a population-based cross-sectional study of adults aged 25 years and above. A random, stratified two-stage sampling method was used to select participants from rural and urban communities in three types of districts (Metropolitan, Municipal, Ordinary). A semi- structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demo graphic characteristics, oral health behaviours and risk factors for oral disease. Anthropometric data and a full-mouth clinical examination was carried out including: soft tissue assessment, tooth count, prosthodontic status, dental caries assessment and periodontal assessment. Results: A total of 729 participants were included in the study with a mean age of 43.9 years (SD 14.6). Majority 425 (61.0%) were females. Though the metropolitan districts had more dental clinics and personnel, along with better health insurance coverage, they had a higher prevalence of missing teeth, retained roots, severe periodontitis and poorer oral health coverage. The findings also show some significant differences in disease prevalence, within the different localities and districts. Conclusions: Availability and access to oral health services is not the most important determinant of good oral health outcomes in this region. We recommend exploring socio-behavioral and cultural factors as well. This study provides district level data to inform policy and guide further research.

Source: UG
Assessment of oral health status in a Ghanaian population: rationale, methods, and population characteristics

Background: Oral health surveys aid in estimating the oral health of a population and provide a projection for future oral health care needs. We report the procedures and rationale of a survey carried out to assess the oral health status and risk factors for oral disease among adults in the Greater Accra Region (GAR) of Ghana. The objective was to provide prevalence estimates on dental diseases, oral health behaviour and risk factors, and to establish baseline epidemiological data on the population’s oral health for further research. Methods: This was a population-based cross-sectional study of adults aged 25 years and above. A random, stratified two-stage sampling method was used to select participants from rural and urban communities in three types of districts (Metropolitan, Municipal, Ordinary). A semi- structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, oral health behaviours and risk factors for oral disease. Anthropometric data and a full-mouth clinical examination was carried out including: soft tissue assessment, tooth count, prosthodontic status, dental caries assessment and periodontal assessment. Results: A total of 729 participants were included in the study with a mean age of 43.9 years (SD 14.6). Majority 425 (61.0%) were females. Though the metropolitan districts had more dental clinics and personnel, along with better health insurance coverage, they had a higher prevalence of missing teeth, retained roots, severe periodontitis and poorer oral health coverage. The findings also show some significant differences in disease prevalence, within the different localities and districts. Conclusions: Availability and access to oral health services is not the most important determinant of good oral health outcomes in this region. We recommend exploring socio-behavioral and cultural factors as well. This study provides district level data to inform policy and guide further research.

Source: UG
Assessment of organochlorine pesticide residues in soils and drinking water sources from cocoa farms in Ghana

Residues of organochlorine pesticides were determined in soils and drinking water sources in cocoa growing areas in Ghana. Soil samples analysed showed the presence of four organochlorine pesticide residues namely lindane (0.005–0.05 mg/kg), beta-HCH (<0.01–0.05 mg/kg), dieldrin (0.005–0.02 mg/kg), and p,p′-DDT (0.005–0.04 mg/kg), with dieldrin occurring most frequently. Similarly, organochlorine pesticide residues detected in the water samples were lindane (0.01–0.03 μg/l), alpha-endosulfan (0.01–0.03 μg/l), endosulfan-sulphate (0.01–0.04 μg/l), dieldrin (0.01–0.03 μg/l) and p,p′-DDT (0.01–0.04 μg/l), with heptachlor occurring most frequently. The concentrations of the detected organochlorine residues in the soil samples were below their respective US maximum residues limits (MRLs) for agricultural soils, except for lindane recorded at Kwakuanya (S4) and beta-HCH recorded at Krakrom (S3) and Kwakuanya (S4). Similarly, the organochlorine pesticide residues recorded in the water samples were below and within their respective WHO MRLs for drinking water except for alpha-endosulfan at Diabaa (S2) and Kwakuanya (S4) at distance 0–15 m and Kwakuanya (S4) at distance 16–30 m, endosulfan-sulfate at Nkrankwanta (S1) and Diabaa (S2) at distance 0–15 m and heptachlor at Krakrom (S3) at distance 16–30 m which were above their WHO MRLs. The presence of the banned organochlorine pesticide residues in soil and water samples from the study area indicates that these chemicals are still being used, illegally, on some cocoa farms. Routine monitoring of pesticide residues in the study area is necessary for the prevention, control and reduction of environmental pollution to minimize health risks

Source: UG
Assessment of past and future potential of ocean wave power in the Gulf of Guinea

the aim of identifying high-density wave energy locations for potential exploitation. To estimate wave power density (WPD) for three time periods (past: 1979–2005, mid-century: 2026–2050, and end-century: 2081–2100), we utilized significant wave height and mean wave period obtained from eight General Circulation Models. Using an ensemble of these WAVEWATCH III simulated datasets, we calculated WPD and assessed overall and seasonal trends, projecting changes under Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios. Results revealed higher potential WPD in the western GoG, particularly near the coast, with increased values offshore. Spatially, WPD change rates varied widely (−0.021 to 0.039 kW/m per year), suggesting both positive and negative trends, though generally low. Projections indicated a potential increase from 0.5 to 1.0 kW/m by the end of the century. The estimated potential power for harvesting exceeded 14,000 MW, with offshore regions showing better wave con verter performance. This study concludes that GoG's wave energy is a promising renewable resource, offering a potential solution to future power needs and contributing to regional greenhouse gas emission mitigation.

Source: UG
Assessment of Patient Safety Culture Among Nurses of Selected Hospitals in The Savannah Region, Ghana

Millions of people are harmed whiles receiving care in hospitals, thus making patient safety a global concern for both health professionals and the public. Patient safety scholars agree that one way of ensuring a successful patient safety system is through patient safety culture. The care nurses render strategically places them at the centre of patient safety promotion; thus, making them the drivers of patient safety. The study assessed patient safety culture among nurses at the hospital and the unit levels. The researcher used a quantitative cross-sectional design to collect data from 210 respondents who were randomly selected from 3 hospitals in the Savannah Region. SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed in this study. This study found teamwork within units as the highest with a positive response score of 82.9%. Other equally important patient safety variables with good rating scores were: manager’s support for patient safety, managers’ expectations and actions in promoting patient safety, feedback about errors, teamwork across units, and hand and transition of care. Areas with weak patient safety practices were staffing levels, open communication, and non-punitive response to errors. Again, nurses’ attitude towards adverse events reporting was generally low. Furthermore, the qualification of nurses significantly predicted adverse events reporting with nurses in the first-degree category two times more likely to report adverse events. Also, non-punitive response to errors and feedback about errors had significant influence on adverse events reporting. It is recommended that healthcare managers should strengthen patient safety areas with good rating scores to further enhance patient safety. Again, healthcare managers should provide the needed work environment that is non-punitive and blame-free. Finally, healthcare managers should encourage more nurses in Ghana to pursue higher-level nursing education.

Source: UG