ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Connectedness Across Commodities, Stocks, Exchange Rates And Bonds Markets In Africa: The Covid-19 Pandemic Case

Purpose: The study measures the total systemic risks and connectedness across commodities, stocks, exchange rates and bond markets in Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic. Design, methodology, and approach: The study uses Diebold-Yilmaz spillover and connectedness measures in a generalized VAR framework. The author calculates the net transmitters or receivers of shocks between two assets and visualizes their strength using a network analysis tool. Findings: The study found low systemic risks across all assets and countries. However, we found higher systemic risks in the forex market than in the stock and bond markets, and in South Africa than in other countries. The dynamic analysis found time-varying connectedness return shocks, which increased during the peak periods of the first and second waves of the pandemic. We found both gold and oil as net receivers of shocks. Overall, over half of all assets were net receivers, and others were net transmitters of return shocks. The network's connectedness plot shows high net pairwise connectedness from Morocco to South African stock market. Practical implications: The study has implications for policymakers to develop the capacities of local investors and markets to limit portfolio outflows during a crisis. Originality/value: Previous studies have analyzed spillovers across asset classes in a single country or a single asset across countries. This paper contributes to the literature on network connectedness across assets and countries.

Source: UG
Connectedness and directional spillovers in energy sectors: international evidence

This paper provides a comparative analysis of how the energy-sector stocks of 20 regional blocs (Americas, Australasia, BRIC, Southeast Asia, Scandinavia, Southern Europe, Far East, Europe, European Union, Emerging Europe, Asia, G7, G12, Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), CCARBNS (Latin America, North America, PIIGS, Asia-Pacific and NORCS) are connected from 5 July 1994 to 21, 2020. It uses various techniques: Diebold and Yilmaz (2014) (DY 2014, hereafter) spillover indices, TVP-VAR, and LASSO-VAR. Our main results are as follows: First, the DY approach results show that the biggest net contributor of volatility is the CCARBNS region. followed by the G12 and G7 regions, while the biggest receiver of volatility is Southeast Asia region. Second, the TVP-VAR and LASSO-VAR results reveal that Scandinavia, Far East, and America’s regions are net receivers of energy shocks, with net transmitters being CCARBNS, G7, G12 and Emerging European regions. Third, during the 2007–2008 financial crisis and recent COVID-Since the COVID-19 outbreak, energy stock market spillovers have reached unprecedented high levels. Fourth, world policy uncertainty greatly influenced the magnitude of volatility spillovers across regional energy stock markets.

Source: UG
Connecting occupational safety awareness, legislation, implementation and enforcement within the Ghanaian industrial economy

Aim: The high incidence of workplace injuries and fatalities in Ghana raises concerns about potential disconnection between occupational safety legislations and their efficient enforcement within the Ghanaian industrial economy. This paper therefore sought to examine the extent to which legitimate occupational legislations are implemented and enforced and monitored in Ghanaian Industrial economy. Materials and Method: The study respondents were 70 comprising 50 workers (10 from each of the five departments in Pioneer Food Cannery), 3 Top management members, 5 Departmental heads, 5 Supervisors from the Safety department, 5 members of the Plant Safety Team and 2 officials from the Department of Factories Inspectorate in the Tema Industrial Area selected by simple random and purposive sampling methods. In-depth Interviews, key informant interviews and direct field observations were used to collect primary data in 2014/2015 and thematically analysed n 2015. Results: Though management had put in place some policies, mechanisms and regulations including the provision of personal protective equipment, the institution of safety committees, the supervision and enforcement of the mechanisms and policies in place was ineffective and inefficient as the safety department had only five supervisors.. Also the Department of Factories Inspectorate is woefully resourced in terms of personnel and logistics leading to poor inspection and enforcement of safety regulations. Conclusions: The paper posits that, there is a disconnection between occupational health and safety laws and their enforcement at the industrial level and calls for proper resourcing of the agencies responsible with enforcement.

Source: UG
Connectivity in Chaotic Urban Spaces: Mapping Informal Mobile Phone Market Clusters in Accra, Ghana

This article investigates the proliferation of informal mobile phone markets and contributes to the understanding of the changing urban economic geographies in Africa. It enriches comparative research by modestly bringing new theoretical ideas to bear, and explores how the spatial geography of mobile phone markets mediates urban governance. We argue that regardless of where in Accra mobile phone markets emerge, the same kind of processes and activities develop, and this recognition contrasts other works, which either focus on the city as a whole or on specific sites. Using key informant interviews, augmented with cognitive mapping, we observe the geography of mobile phone repairs and sales, intersecting socioeconomic factors, and a collaborative culture among participants. Ultimately, our article touches upon the issues of power and agency by elucidating the relational dynamics between the informal operators and city authorities.

Source: UG
Consanguinity and rare neurological disease. A five year experience from the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana

Introduction Marriage between close biological kin is not regarded as advantageous in the western world but in other parts of the world, consanguineous unions persist. Consanguineous marriage increases the birth prevalence of individuals with recessive disorders. In Accra, Ghana, consanguinity is beginning to emerge as a significant cause of rare neurological disease at the central referral hospital at Korle Bu in Ghana. Method Documentation of rare neurological and genetic diseases over a five year period resulting from consanguinity (2010–2015) presenting to the Department of Child Health, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra. Results One of the three siblings with zeroderma pigmentosum was identified as the rare De Sanctis Cacchione syndrome which has not been previously reported from West Africa. Five cases of spinal muscular atrophy including three consecutive siblings with the disease, MCAD deficiency (1), inborn errors of metabolism (1), ceroid lipoid fuscinosis (6), a case of Meckel Gruber syndrome. Conclusion Rare neurological disease occurs in West African communities as a result of consanguinity. © 2016 The Author

Source: UG
Consensus evidence‑based clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treat‑to‑target management of osteoporosis in Africa: an initiative by the African Society of Bone Health and Metabolic Bone Diseases

Summary The objective of this consensus statement is to inform the clinical practice communities, research centres and policymakers across Africa of the results of the recommendations for osteoporosis prevention, diagnosis and management. The developed guideline provides state-of-the-art information and presents the conclusions and recommendations of the consensus panel regarding these issues. Purpose To reach an African expert consensus on a treat-to-target strategy, based on current evidence for best practice, for the management of osteoporosis and prevention of fractures. Method A 3-round Delphi process was conducted with 17 osteoporosis experts from different African countries. All rounds were conducted online. In round 1, experts reviewed a list of 21 key clinical questions. In rounds 2 and 3, they rated the statements stratified under each domain for its fit (on a scale of 1–9). After each round, statements were retired, modified or added in view of the experts’ suggestions and the percent agreement was calculated. Statements receiving rates of 7–9 by more than 75% of experts’ votes were considered as achieving consensus. Results The developed guidelines adopted a fracture risk-centric approach. Results of round 1 revealed that of the 21 proposed domains, 10 were accepted whereas 11 were amended. In round 2, 32 statements were presented: 2 statements were retired for similarity, 9 statements reached consensus, whereas modifications were suggested for 21 statements. After the 3rd round of rating, the experts came to consensus on the 32 statements. Frequency of high-rate recommendation ranged from 83.33 to 100%. The response rate of the experts was 100%. An algorithm for the osteoporosis management osteoporosis was suggested. Conclusion This study is an important step in setting up a standardised osteoporosis service across the continent. Building a single model that can be applied in standard practice across Africa will enable the clinicians to face the key challenges of managing osteoporosis; furthermore, it highlights the unmet needs for the policymakers responsible for providing bone health care together with and positive outcomes of patients’ care.

Source: UG
The Consensus Project and Three Levels of Deliberation

The basic argument is that the consensus debate has not been very meaningful until now because consensus has not been closely studied as a concept, and deliberation has not been studied precisely in terms of the propensity to reach common agreement. In particular, deliberation—as well as issues for deliberation—has not been categorized into different levels with a view to exposing the varying challenges of reaching common agreement and the kinds of deliberative approaches entailed in each category. In this research, I attempt to provide this categorization in order to clarify the debate. Copyright © Canadian Philosophical Association 2018

Source: UG
Consequences of failure to manage public sector financial records

The focus of this article is the management of public sector financial records. In researching this subject, pilot studies were initially carried out in The Gambia designed to underpin the larger study in Ghana. The fundamental contribution of these studies is the definition of an essential, but often ignored condition necessary for effective and efficient machinery for public financial management. The studies demonstrate that the effective management of public sector financial information is a crucial factor in providing capacity for public sector efficiency and governance. This view supports an emerging trend in Public Sector Management (PSM) that government records and in particular, the records generated by the public financial management system provide the evidence required to support transparency and accountability and at the same time inform the effective management of the Consolidated Fund. This article submits that without documentary evidence, the public has no means of holding the state accountable. In effect, public financial records provide an effective means by which the public discern and measure the full stature of their government.

Source: UG
Consequences of hydrocele and the benefits of hydrocelectomy: A qualitative study in lymphatic filariasis endemic communities on the coast of Ghana

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
A conservation assessment of the herpetofauna of a moist semi-deciduous forest in Ghana

A conservation assessment of amphibians and reptiles was undertaken in the Gyemera Forest Reserve (GFR) and Gyeni River Forest Reserve (GRFR) in the Moist Semi-deciduous forests of the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Refuge examination, acoustic searches, pitfall trapping and interviews were employed in data collection at the study sites. Forty herpetofaunal species were recorded comprising 16 amphibians (two toads and 14 frogs) and 24 reptiles (one chelonian, 14 lizards and nine snakes). Four species (one lizard and three snakes) were not directly encountered but were recorded from interviews of local residents. The GRFR recorded a higher number of species than GFR and there was a low similarity in species composition between the sites (Sorenson’s Similarity Index CS = 0.52). Five species were widely distributed and frequently encountered and only 12 species were directly recorded within the forest reserves. The main threats to herpetofaunal species in the study area were habitat destruction and fragmentation due to illegal logging and small-scale/artisanal mining. Four species were of conservation concern; Phrynobatrachus alleni is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN and the other three; Kinixys erosa, Varanus niloticus and Python sebae are listed in CITES Appendix II where limited trading is allowed and are nationally protected. Inclusion of the local people in conversation initiatives as well as conservation education and awareness programmes would help sensitise and concientise them about the need to conserve biodiversity. Also, enforcement of the laws on illegal logging and mining should be intensified.

Source: UG
The conservation importance of luxuriant plantations for lower storey forest birds in South-West Ghana

The exceptionally rapid degradation and fragmentation of the Upper Guinea Forest, caused by slash-and-burn farming and selective logging, oblige bird conservationists to examine critically the conservation value of unprotected areas, which may provide buffer zones or connecting corridors to protected forests. This paper assesses the utilisation of various tree-crop plantations by mainly lower storey forest birds in South-West Ghana, through avifaunal comparisons of shaded cash crops (rustic cocoa; neglected coconut) and exotic tree plantations (Cedrela, Gmelina) with nearby dosed forest. Plantations adjacent to, or within, large (>200 km2), biodiverse forests are superior bird habitats compared to similar plantations within small (<50 km2) and species-poor forests. A relatively high forest tree density in cash crop (15-20 ha-2) and exotic (15-35ha-1) tree plantations, combined with a luxuriant woody undergrowth (not slashed for >5-10 years), may additionally explain the presence of many forest specialists, including regionally ‘Vulnerable’ and locally ‘Endangered’ species. Overall, 50% of species of conservation important found in forests were represented in plantations. These findings highlight the importance of shaded plantations with long period between understorey weeding, as appropriate land-use systems that enhance the area under effective conservation and improve the connectivity of protected forest fragments. Results are compared to similar studies in the Old and New World tropics, and implications for off-reserve land-use management are compared and discussed in regional and global contexts.

Source: UG
Conservation of water during handwashing.

Wastage of water during handwashing is an issue that has received insufficient attention. The problem results from the need to avoid re-contamination of hands during hand washing, and has been addressed by using running water, and not touching the tap to turn off the flow of water during the procedure. This video of a standard non-surgical scrub provides a clear illustration of the problem with 75% of the water being wasted. The volume of water used in handwashing is determined by its duration, the rate of water flow, and how often the procedure is performed. Conservation of water during handwashing can be achieved by the use of various devices to turn off the tap when water is not required. Other methods of water conservation are avoidance of excessively long handwashing, usage of a moderate water flow rate, and the appropriate use of alcohol hand rub. It is hoped that this reminder will help encourage health care workers to conserve water.

Source: UG
Conservation Planning for a Widespread Threatened Species: WWF and the African Elephant

In a case study of conservation planning by a conservation organization working at a continental scale we examine how WWF identified and prioritized its African elephant Loxodonta Africana conservation activities. We (1) review lessons learnt from previous work, (2) identify priority landscapes using biological criteria (e.g. population size and viability) and institutional criteria (e.g. feasibility, sustainability and cost-effectiveness of WWF interventions), and (3) conduct a threat analysis and review of national and sub-regional action plans. We suggest that species action plans should use priority-setting criteria that focus on conserving the largest and most viable populations at the subspecies level. Clear definition of geographical priorities helps an organization focus its resources and assists monitoring. Species action plans should also take account of plans developed by governments and other stakeholders. Conservation agencies wishing to select which landscapes to invest in for a given species or subspecies could then consider institutional prioritization criteria, such as those used by WWF for the African elephant. This would allow them to invest pragmatically in conservation that has a higher chance of success than work planned solely through scientific analysis. Ultimately, however, no species action plan will succeed unless it has the resources necessary for implementation and the key stakeholders work together in partnership.

Source: UG
Conserved and variant epitopes of target antigens of transmission-blocking antibodies among isolates of plasmodium falciparum from malaysia.

Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) directed against different epitope regions on three sexual stage-specific gamete surface proteins of Plasmodium falciparum, Pfs 25, Pfs 230, and Pfs 48/45, were used to study the genetic diversity of these epitopes among fresh isolates of P. falciparum from Malaysia, using immunofluorescence microscopy (IFA). Among 45 Malaysian isolates, one epitope of Pfs 25, designated region I, showed evidence of variable reactivity with MAbs among different isolates; the Pfs 25 epitope, region II, was universally recognized by MAbs in all isolates. Two apparently distinct epitope regions of Pfs 230 were defined by MAbs, one of which was universally recognized by MAbs among the 45 isolates; the other was conserved in all but three isolates. The epitope regions of gamete-surface protein Pfs 48/45, designated regions I, IIa, IIb, IIc, III, and IV, were examined for reactivity by IFA in 33 isolates. Epitope regions I, IIb, III, and IV were conserved in all isolates; regions IIa and IIc existed in variant forms.

Source: UG
Considerations for mosquito microbiome research from the Mosquito Microbiome Consortium

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
Considerations for Purposeful HIV Status Disclosure Among Women Living with HIV in Ghana.

Although disclosure of positive HIV status has recognized benefits, enacted and perceived stigma is a continuing problem in Ghana, especially affecting women living with HIV (WLHIV). This qualitative study investigates how WLHIV make these decisions. We interviewed 40 WLHIV, analysing their transcripts using thematic content analysis. Four themes emerged from the data: selectivity in disclosure; disclosure for education, prevention and to provide support; concern for the potential confident, and safety in secrets. Women's awareness of and concerns about HIV-related stigma led them to seriously weigh the costs and benefits of disclosure decisions. Overall, our participants disclosed only when they believed that disclosure would benefit them or the confidant. They did not condone open disclosure, and preferred non-disclosure to minimize harm to themselves and loved ones. Though disclosure occurred for HIV education and prevention purposes, personal safety was the priority. We recommend revision of current post-HIV testing and pre-treatment counselling procedures to incorporate WLHIVs' judgements about disclosure and discussion of the perceived benefits of disclosure. Disclosure is an intricate process that involves support seeking and educating others while averting harm. Continued research of the factors related to disclosure is important to enhance understanding of the disclosure process.

Source: UG
Considerations for unblinding individual study participants during vaccine trials

Premature unblinding of individual participants is rarely reported in publications, but such unblinding can disrupt vaccine trials by causing worry and drop-out of other participants or ‘‘pseudo unblinding,” in which participants or investigators over-interpret certain symptoms as being related to receiving an investigational product. This review summarizes appropriate reasons for unblinding in vaccine trials. Regulatory guidance could be improved by distinguishing guidance for vaccine trials from drug trials, with the recognition that unblinding individual participants in vaccine studies is rarely needed for management of adverse events following immunization.

Source: UG
Considering effective adaptation options to impacts of climate change for maize production in Ghana

As a contribution to guide policy planning, effective climate change adaptation options to enhance maize production in Ghana were examined. The Agricultural Production Systems Simulator crop model, coupled with statistical downscaled climate scenarios of 9 general circulation models (GCMs) and farmer practices, were used to device adaptation options in the near future (NF) period of 2046-2065 based on IPCC A2 emission scenario at local scale level in Wa and Wenchi agricultural areas of Ghana. Results from the single-maize cropping season at Wa, in the savanna zone indicate that, a 6-week delay in sowing from 1961 to 2000 baseline date of 1st May to 15th June, was the most appropriate way to offset the negative effects of potential climate change resulting in a yield increase of 8.2%. In the forest-savanna transitional zone of Wenchi, a 4-week delay in the major season sowing date from 15th March to 15th April and no change in the minor season sowing date of 15th August resulted in a slight yield increase of 3.9%. On the other hand, a second adaptation option of using a medium heat-tolerant maize variety produced substantial gains in crop yield of 30.1% and 30.5% in savanna and forest-savanna transitional zones respectively with a longer grain-formation period under NF climate change when compared to delaying sowing dates. Effective adaptation options can thus reduce negative impacts of climate change in the NF, but require enabling policy to support its implementation. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.

Source: UG