ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Pressure and thermal annealing effects on the photoconversion efficiency of polymer solar cells

efficiencies (PCEs) of polymer solar cells with active layers that consist of a mixture of poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) and fullerene derivative (6,6)-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester. The PCEs of the solar cells increased from ∼2.3% (for the unannealed devices) to ∼3.7% for devices annealed at ∼150 ○C. A further increase in thermal annealing temperatures (beyond 150 ○C) resulted in lower PCEs. Further improvements in the PCEs (from ∼3.7% to ∼5.4%) were observed with pressure application between 0 and 8 MPa. However, a decrease in PCEs was observed for pressure application beyond 8 MPa. The improved performance associated with thermal annealing is attributed to changes in the active layer microstructure and texture, which also enhance the optical absorption, mobility, and lifetime of the optically excited charge carriers. The beneficial effects of applied pressure are attributed to the decreased interfacial surface contacts that are associated with pressure application. The implications of the results are then discussed for the design and fabrication of organic solar cells with improved PCEs.

Source: UG
Pressure for health service delivery and its implications on safety behaviour of health care practitioners

AIM: The study aim to examine whether management commitment and prioritization of safety at the hospital had any relationship with health care workers' safety behaviour under pressure to deliver health care. BACKGROUND: Sub-Saharan Africa faces a human resource crisis in the health sector, leading to a compromise of the safety practices of nurses and other care providers. Hence there is a need to probe the influence of pressure for health service delivery on safety behaviour. METHODS: The sample consisted of 295 respondents consisting of nurses, medical doctors and biological scientists from two teaching hospitals (Tamale Teaching Hospital and Komfu Anokye Teaching Hospital). A quantitative research design approach was used. Simple linear regression was carried out to test the hypotheses formulated. RESULTS: The results showed that pressure for health service delivery negatively affected health care workers' safety behaviour whereas management commitment to safety and priority of safety at the hospital were positively related to safety behaviour. CONCLUSION: Priority and the commitment of management to safety can influence the safety behaviour of nurses and other caregivers who are under pressure to deliver quality health care to the great number of patients. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Upholding high safety standards by management can create an enabling environment that would compel nurses and other caregivers to provide apt safety behaviours which in the long run can improve the quality of safety of nurses and other care providers.

Source: UG
Pressureless sintering and gas flux properties of porous ceramic membranes for gas applications

The preparation and characterization of kaolin based ceramic membranes using styrofoam (STY) and sawdust (SD) as pore formers have been prepared by mechano-chemical synthesis using pressureless sintering technique with porogen content between (0–20) wt% by die pressing. Pellets were fired at 1150 °C and soaking time of 4 h. The membranes cast as circular disks were subjected to characterization studies to evaluate the effect of the sintering temperature and pore former content on porosity, density, water absorption and mechanical strength. Obtained membranes show effective porosity with maximum at about 43 and 47% respectively for membranes formulated with styrofoam and sawdust porogens but with a slightly low mechanical strength that does not exceed 19 MPa. The resultant ceramic bodies show a fine porous structure which is mainly caused by the volatilization of the porogens. The fabricated membrane exhibited high N2 gas flux, hence, these membranes can be considered as efficient for potential application for gas separation by reason of the results shown in the gas flux tests. © 2017 The Authors

Source: UG
The presumption of movement

The conceptualisation of movement has always been problematical for Western thought, ever since Parmenides declared our incapacity to conceptualise the plurality of change because our self-identical thought can only know an identical being. Exploiting this peculiar feature and constraint on our thought, Zeno of Elea devised his famous paradoxes of movement in which he shows that the passage from a position to movement cannot be conceptualised. In this paper, I argue that this same constraint is at the root of our incapacity to conceptualise the unseen movement at the micro-level and that the aporetic idea of super-position far from opening the gate on a deeper reality is a symptomatic word for this lack of understanding. © 2007 Springer Science + Business Media B.V.

Source: UG
Prevailing against the odds of dropping out of school in Ghana

This paper examines factors that affect school dropout at the basic level of education in Ghana. The study focuses on the experiences of students, parents, teachers and welfare workers. Weak family support, poor academic performance, poor school quality and low value for education are identified as important to children’s stay in school. It is observed that some children prevail against the odds and remain in school while others drop out. Resilience is identified as an important factor that could enhance the capacity of at-risk student to stay in school despite adverse circumstances. The study recommends research on the underlying processes that foster personal resilience in school age children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Ghana

Source: UG
Prevailing Against the Odds of Dropping Out of School in Ghana

This paper examines factors that affect school dropout at the basic level of education in Ghana. The study focuses on the experiences of students, parents, teachers and welfare workers. Weak family support, poor academic performance, poor school quality and low value of education, is identified as important to children’s stay in school. It is observed that some children prevail against the odds and remain in school while others drop out. Resilience is identified as an important factor that could enhance the capacity of at-risk student to stay in school despite adverse circumstances. The study recommends research on the underlying processes that foster personal resilience in school age children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Ghana.

Source: UG
Prevalence and Antibiogram of Campylobacter jejuni in Domestic Animals in Rural Ghana

A total of 134 samples of rectal and cloacal swabs taken from apparently healthy domestic animals that were in 43 of 76 homes located in rural Ghana were examined for Campylobacter jejuni. C. jejuni was isolated from 32.8% (44/134) of the animals. The highest isolation rate of 43.6% was from local domestic fowls, followed by goats (33.3%) and sheep (23%). This organism was not detected in the pigs, cats, and ducks. All 44 strains of this bacterium produced hydrogen sulphide and hydrolyzed hippurate; antibiogram on 24 strains showed resistance to cephalothin, cephalexin, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. C. jejuni biotype 2 is the prevailing strain in animals in the area studied.

Source: UG
Prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among antenatal care attendants in the Kintampo municipali

Introduction: anemia among pregnant women is endemic in developing countries and often results in complications to mother and fetus (born or unborn). WHO estimates showed that sub-Saharan Africa has the highest prevalence of 57.1%. The objective here is to determine the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among pregnant women attending Kintampo North Municipal Hospital (KNMH). Methods: a cross-sectional study in which data were collected among 496 pregnant women who attended KMH between May 2019 and June 2019. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain information on sociodemographic factors, medical history, and key dietary consumption patterns of participants. The main outcome of interest is anemia in pregnancy, defined as a hemoglobin concentration of less than 11.0g/dl. Test of associations between independent variables and the dependent variable was examined using Chi-square. Binary logistic regression models were also fitted after dichotomizing the outcome by whether the women had anemia or not. Statistical significance level was assessed at 5% and 95% confidence interval. Results: the prevalence of anemia was moderate. It is associated with these factors: basic education (tripled the risk), farming/trading reduced the risk by 94%, birth interval of less than 2 years doubled the risk, parity (primiparous and multiparous) doubled the risk, fruits and vegetables consumption (once and twice a week) tripled the risk and pica consumption among the pregnant women doubled its risk. Conclusion: prevalence of anemia was high. Pica, educational level, occupation, and frequency of intake of fruits and dark green leafy vegetables were associated with anemia among pregnant women.

Source: UG
Prevalence and barriers to the utilization of adolescent and youth-friendly health services in Ghana: systematic review and meta-analysis

Background The Adolescent and Youth-Friendly Health Services (AYFHS) program in Ghana aims to improve access to reproductive and sexual health services for young people. However, despite its importance, low utilization rates persist. Existing studies report various barriers, but there is a lack of synthesized evidence on AYFHS utilization and the specifc barriers in Ghana. This gap limits the development of targeted interventions. Therefore, this study systematically reviews the prevalence and barriers to AYFHS utilization in Ghana to inform context-specifc solutions. Methods This review adhered to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA). Four main databases (PubMed, Web of Science, JSTOR, and Scopus) were searched for relevant papers. Papers (peer review and grey literature) on Ghanaian adolescents and young people aged 10–24 years, pub lished online in 2010–2023 and published in English were selected for the review. Finally, 11 records were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Results Six studies were conducted in the Ashanti region, with most being cross-sectional surveys. Sampling meth ods varied: three used purposive sampling, one combined purposive and convenience sampling, and another used both purposive and stratifed sampling. Random and multi-stage stratifed sampling were used in other studies. The overall prevalence rate of AYFHSutilization in Ghana was 42% (CI 24%- 60%). Education and fnancial constraints signif icantly afected AYFHS access. Religious beliefs, limited education, fnancial constraints, negative attitudes, and a lack of parental consent deter its use. Facility-related issues like medicine shortages, long waiting times, and confdentiality concerns acted as barriers. Cultural, religious, and educational norms impact decisions to use AYFHS. Conclusion and recommendation To enhance utilization and align with Sustainable Development Goal Three (ensuring good health and well-being for all), culturally sensitive interventions, improved access, comprehensive sex education, and awareness campaigns are vital.

Source: UG
The Prevalence and Causes of Musculoskeletal Pain among Farmers in the Volta Region of Ghana: A Cross Sectional Study

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
Prevalence and changes in boredom, anxiety and well-being among Ghanaians during the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based study

Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with several adverse health outcomes. However, few studies in sub-Saharan Africa have examined its deleterious consequences on mental health. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence and changes in boredom, anxiety and psychological well-being before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana. Methods: Data for this study were drawn from an online survey of 811 participants that collected retrospective information on mental health measures including symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, boredom, and wellbeing. Additional data were collected on COVID-19 related measures, biosocial (e.g. age and sex) and sociocultural factors (e.g., education, occupation, marital status). Following descriptive and psychometric evaluation of measures used, multiple linear regression was used to assess the relationships between predictor variables and boredom, anxiety and psychological well-being scores during the pandemic. Second, we assessed the effect of anxiety on psychological well-being. Next, we assessed predictors of the changes in boredom, anxiety, and well-being. Results: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 63.5% reported better well-being, 11.6% symptoms of anxiety, and 29.6% symptoms of boredom. Comparing experiences before and during the pandemic, there was an increase in boredom and anxiety symptomatology, and a decrease in well-being mean scores. The adjusted model shows participants with existing medical conditions had higher scores on boredom (ß = 1.76, p < .001) and anxiety (ß = 1.83, p < .01). In a separate model, anxiety scores before the pandemic (ß = -0.25, p < .01) and having prior medical conditions (ß = -1.53, p < .001) were associated with decreased psychological well-being scores during the pandemic. In the change model, having a prior medical condition was associated with an increasing change in boredom, anxiety, and well-being. Older age was associated with decreasing changes in boredom and well-being scores. Conclusions: This study is the first in Ghana to provide evidence of the changes in boredom, anxiety and psychological well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the need for the inclusion of mental health interventions as part of the current pandemic control protocol and public health preparedness towards infectious disease outbreaks.

Source: UG
Prevalence and changes in boredom, anxiety and well-being among Ghanaians during the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based study

Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with several adverse health outcomes. However, few studies in sub-Saharan Africa have examined its deleterious consequences on mental health. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence and changes in boredom, anxiety and psychological well-being before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana. Methods: Data for this study were drawn from an online survey of 811 participants that collected retrospective information on mental health measures including symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, boredom, and well being. Additional data were collected on COVID-19 related measures, biosocial (e.g. age and sex) and sociocultural factors (e.g., education, occupation, marital status). Following descriptive and psychometric evaluation of measures used, multiple linear regression was used to assess the relationships between predictor variables and boredom, anxiety and psychological well-being scores during the pandemic. Second, we assessed the effect of anxiety on psychological well-being. Next, we assessed predictors of the changes in boredom, anxiety, and well-being. Results: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 63.5% reported better well-being, 11.6% symptoms of anxiety, and 29.6% symptoms of boredom. Comparing experiences before and during the pandemic, there was an increase in boredom and anxiety symptomatology, and a decrease in well-being mean scores. The adjusted model shows participants with existing medical conditions had higher scores on boredom (ß = 1.76, p < .001) and anxiety (ß = 1.83, p < .01). In a separate model, anxiety scores before the pandemic (ß = -0.25, p < .01) and having prior medical conditions (ß = -1.53, p < .001) were associated with decreased psychological well-being scores during the pandemic. In the change model, having a prior medical condition was associated with an increasing change in boredom, anxiety, and well-being. Older age was associated with decreasing changes in boredom and well-being scores. Conclusions: This study is the first in Ghana to provide evidence of the changes in boredom, anxiety and psychological well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the need for the inclusion of mental health interventions as part of the current pandemic control protocol and public health preparedness towards infectious disease outbreaks.

Source: UG
Prevalence and correlates of depression among caregivers of children living with HIV in Ghana: findings from the Sankofa pediatric disclosure study

Prior studies show an association between caregiver depression and child health outcomes. There has been little examination of depression among caregivers of HIV-infected children in sub-Saharan countries where pediatric HIV is concentrated. Using baseline data collected in the pediatric HIV disclosure intervention trial, Sankofa, we examined the prevalence and factors associated with depression among caregivers (N = 446) of children infected with HIV in Ghana. Data were analyzed with descriptive and regression analyses. The mean age of the caregivers was 42.2 ± 10.4 years. Eighty percent of the caregivers were female and 59% were HIV-infected. Twenty-eight percent (n = 126) of the caregivers were found to have mild to severe depression. In the adjusted model, factors significantly associated with caregiver depression included: HIV-positive caregiver status (P = 0.04), low income (P = 0.02), lower social support, (P = 0.01), lower HIV knowledge, (P = 0.01), worse HIV illness perceptions (P≤0.001), and greater perceived HIV stigma (P≤0.001). Although we found a high prevalence of depression among our study participants, several of the risks factors identified are modifiable and amenable to interventions that are locally available and affordable.

Source: UG
Prevalence and correlates of diarrhoea among children under fve in selected coastal communities in Ghana

Introduction Diarrhoea is a preventable disease affecting children under five years disproportionately. Globally, thousands of children die from diarrhoea-related diseases each year, most deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa where Ghana is located. Coastal communities bear the greatest brunt due to poor sanitary conditions. We assess the prevalence of diarrhoea in selected coastal communities along the eastern coast of Ghana. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in Mumford, Opetekwei, Anyako, Anyauni and Ateteti communities in the Central, Greater Accra and Volta region respectively. We interviewed households with children under five years on the occurrence of diarrhoea and health-seeking practices. We also used a checklist to assess the sanitary condi‑ tions of the household. Frequencies and proportions were generated. We determined significant differences using modified Poisson regression models at p<0.05. Results were presented in tables and text. Results The prevalence ratio of diarrhoea was 36% (95% CI 33–40%). Most cases were from Anyako community. All interviewed households in Mumford and Opetekwei used improved water sources whiles 94% in Atetetio used improved water sources. Children who were fully vaccinated had 32% lower prevalence of diarrhoea compared to those who were not (aPR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.55–0.84). Conclusion Diarrhoea prevalence was high inspite of the reported use of improved water sources and sanitation facilities by majority of households in the communities. Fully vaccinated children had a relatively lower prevalence of diarrhoea compared to children who were not fully vaccinated. We recommend in-depth analysis of the use of water and sanitation facilities in these settings to understand the reasons for the observed diarrhoea prevalence.

Source: UG
Prevalence And Correlates Of Physical Bullying Behaviours (On/Off-School Property) Among Adolescents In Saint Vincent And The Grenadines.

Background: Bullying remains a serious public health and educational concern among school-going adolescents worldwide. However, no national survey has examined the prevalence and correlates of physical bullying (on and off-school property) among school-going adolescents in the Island country of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This study sought to examine the prevalence and correlates of physical bullying among adolescents from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Methods: We analysed data from the 2018 Global School-based Student Health Survey using Pearson Chi-square and Binomial Logistic Regression, with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) at a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Among this population, physical bullying on/off-school property was prevalent among 24% and 18%, respectively. After adjusting for other predictors, we found that males were less likely to be bullied on school property than females. However, being a younger adolescent (≤15 years old), being physically attacked, cyberbullied, having close friends, and having suicidal ideas were associated with increased odds of being physically bullied on school property. Also, being physically attacked, cyberbullied, worried, and having suicidal plans increased the odds of being physically bullied off school property. Conclusion: We recommend a multidisciplinary approach to adolescent bullying prevention in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and countries with similar characteristics based on our findings.

Source: UG
Prevalence and correlates of stroke among older adults in Ghana: Evidence from the Study on Global AGEing and adult health (SAGE)

This study examines the prevalence and correlates of stroke among older adults in Ghana. This cross-sectional study retrieved data from Wave 1 of the World Health Organization (WHO) Survey on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) conducted between 2007 and 2008. The sample, comprising 4,279 respondents aged 50 years and above, was analysed using descriptive statistics, cross tabulations and Chi-Square tests, and a multivariable binary logistic regression. Respondents ranged in age from 50 to 114 years, with a median age of 62 years. Stroke prevalence was 2.6%, with the correlates being marital status, level of education, employment status, and living with hypertension or diabetes. The results showed that being separated/divorced, having primary and secondary education, being unemployed and living with hypertension and diabetes, significantly increased the odds of stroke prevalence in this population. The results suggest that interventions to reduce stroke prevalence and impact must be developed alongside interventions for hypertension, diabetes and sociodemographic/economic factors such as marital status, level of education, and employment status

Source: UG