ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Pilot implementation of community health advocacy teams to improve the e

Introduction: In Ghana, the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) distributes long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) to households for free through the periodic point mass distribution (PMD) campaign and continuous distribution to populations most vulnerable to malaria. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used among 43 CHAT members across six communities in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The CHAT constitutes significant community actors whose roles are centred on key elements of community/social mobilisation and capacity building, all nested in social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) strategies. The CHATs were pilot implemented in all study communities for 4 months after which we identified opportunities and barriers during implementation. CHAT members participated in six focus group discussions which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically using the NVivo 13. Results: CHATs were instrumental in sensitising community members through SBCC strategies. Moreover, there were changes in the behaviour of community members who were receptive towards and participated in CHAT activities. Community members were accurately informed about malaria (e.g., causes and preventive measures). However, the CHAT experienced barriers during implementation, including a lack of financial support to aid in transportation, organisation of meetings, and outreach activities. Additionally, the level of participation by CHAT members in activities and the medium of communication among members were key areas of concern. Conclusion: The CHATs would be instrumental in promoting LLINs’ use during and after PMD campaigns through community outreaches. It is therefore necessary to provide resources to support their operations and a good network to address communication barriers. Finally, continuous capacity strengthening of CHAT members by the NMCP is important.

Source: UG
Pilot implementation of community health advocacy teams to improve the e􀀀ectiveness of long-lasting insecticide net distribution through both campaigns and continuous channels in Ghana: a qualitative study of opportunities and barriers to implementation

Introduction: In Ghana, the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) distributes long-lasting insecticide net (LLIN) to households for free through the periodic point mass distribution (PMD) campaign and continuous distribution to populations most vulnerable to malaria. It is known that the existence of e􀀀ective and functional community-based groups could influence positive behaviours regarding health interventions promoted through health campaigns. However, there is no evidence of functional community-based groups that aim to improve the e􀀀ectiveness of LLIN distribution campaigns by transitioning into primary healthcare delivery. This study aimed to explore the opportunities and barriers to the pilot implementation of co-created community health advocacy teams (CHATs) to improve the e􀀀ectiveness of LLIN distribution through both campaigns and continuous channels in Ghana. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used among 43 CHAT members across six communities in the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana. The CHAT constitutes significant community actors whose roles are centred on key elements of community/social mobilisation and capacity building, all nested in social and behaviour change communication (SBCC) strategies. The CHATs were pilot implemented in all study communities for 4 months after which we identified opportunities and barriers during implementation. CHAT members participated in six focus group discussions which were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically using the NVivo 13. Results: CHATs were instrumental in sensitising community members through SBCC strategies. Moreover, there were changes in the behaviour of community members who were receptive towards and participated in CHAT activities. Community members were accurately informed about malaria (e.g., causes and preventive measures). However, the CHAT experienced barriers during implementation, including a lack of financial support to aid in transportation, organisation of meetings, and outreach activities. Additionally, the level of participation by CHAT members in activities and the medium of communication among members were key areas of concern. Conclusion: The CHATs would be instrumental in promoting LLINs’ use during and after PMD campaigns through community outreaches. It is therefore necessary to provide resources to support their operations and a good network to address communication barriers. Finally, continuous capacity strengthening of CHAT members by the NMCP is important.

Source: UG
A pilot study comparing bioelectrical impedance analysis and body mass index in determining obesity among staff of a Ghanaian University

Purpose In Ghana, the body mass index (BMI) is widely used in clinical practice in assessing weight status, but it is limited as a measure of adiposity. The purpose of this study was to compare bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and body mass index (BMI) methods in determining obesity among some Ghanaians. Design/methodology/approach This was a cross-sectional survey involving 134 participants whose BMI were determined. Percentage body fat mass (%BF) and percentage visceral fat (%VF) were obtained by BIA using a hand-to-hand Omron body composition monitor with a weighing scale. Findings Based on the WHO BMI criteria, 6.0 per cent of the participants were obese. However, according to BIA 18.7 and 20.9 per cent of the participants were obese according to % BF and %VF, respectively. The BMI and %BF showed higher prevalence of obesity among female participants (8.2 and 34.4 per cent, respectively) than male participants (4.1 and 5.5 per cent, respectively), whereas for %VF, obesity was higher among male participants than female participants (26.0 per cent, 14.8 per cent). There was significant positive correlation between BMI and % BF (r = 0.604, p = 0.001); and between BMI and %VF (r = 0.555, p = 0.001). Research limitations/implications There are discrepancies in the prevalence of obesity in the study population as measured by BMI and BIA methods. This suggests that the BMI and BIA may not be reliable tools for assessing obesity in this population. Further studies are needed to determine the cut-offs for BMI and BIA that are associated with metabolic risk in the population. The small sample size limits the generalizability of findings of this study. Originality/value Body composition tends to vary by ethnicity and race; hence, it is essential to determine the appropriate tool for assessing adiposity in African populations for prompt and targeted interventions.

Source: UG
A pilot study of the dietary and physical activity behaviours of international students: Implications for health promotion

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to describe the dietary practices of international students attending the University of Ghana, Legon. One hundred and fifty international students volunteered to participate in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to solicit information from respondents. Main outcome measures were self reported demographics, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, meal skipping, fruit and fat related behaviours. Analysis of variance, paired t-test, and logistic regression were used to test for differences and association between dependent and independent variables. The findings indicated the eating habits differed both in the home country and in Ghana. Although breakfast is the most important meal of the day, some (n = 21) respondents skipped it because there was no time for them to eat in the morning due to their tight schedule. There was a significant difference between ethnicity and breakfast intake with more Caucasians eating breakfast than those of African origin. More respondents of African descent (n = 88; 61.1%) than Caucasians (n = 37; 25.7%) were of the view that fruits were of less importance. Reasons for skipping lunch were either not hungry, weight related or lack of time. Science students skipped meals than those in the Humanities and Arts. Food choice was influenced by availability, variety and affordability. More than half of the respondents (78.5%) engaged in some physical activity. There is the need for nutrition education for foreign students as they enter a new environment.

Source: UG
A pilot study on quality of artesunate and amodiaquine tablets used in the fishing community of Tema, Ghana

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

Source: UG
A Pilot Study on the Genetic Diversity of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex Strains from Tuberculosis Patients in the Littoral Region of Cameroon

The Bacteriology Department aims to improve the quality of life first for Ghanaians and the world at large by conducting research into bacterial diseases of public health importance to Ghana and globally. In addition to working on enteric pathogens and sexually transmitted diseases, the department’s current main focus is on the two most important mycobacterial diseases of public health importance to Ghana, namely Buruli ulcer (BU) and tuberculosis (TB).

Source: UG
Pilot testing of the Becoming Breastfeeding Friendly toolbox in Ghana

Background Ghana has achieved significant progress in breastfeeding practices in the past two decades. Further progress is, however, limited by insufficient government funding and declining donor support for breastfeeding programs. The current study pretested feasibility of the Becoming Breastfeeding Friendly (BBF) toolbox in Ghana, to assess the existing enabling environment and gaps for scaling-up effective actions. Methods Between June 2016 and April 2017, a 15-person expert country committee drawn from government and non-government agencies was established to implement the BBF toolbox. The committee used the BBF index (BBFI), comprising of 54 benchmarks and eight gears of the Breastfeeding Gear Model (advocacy; political will; legislation and policy; funding and resources; training and program delivery; promotion; research and evaluation; and coordination, goals and monitoring). Available evidence (document reviews, and key informant interviews) was used to arrive at consensus-scoring of benchmarks. Benchmark scores ranged between 0 (no progress) and 3 (major progress). Scores for each gear were averaged to estimate the Gear Total Score (GTS), ranging from 0 (least) to 3.0 (strong). GTS’s were aggregated as a weighted average to estimate the BBFI which ranged from 0 (weak) to 3.0 (outstanding). Gaps in policy and program implementation and recommendations were proposed for decision-making. Results The BBFI score was 2.0, indicating a moderate scaling-up environment for breastfeeding in Ghana. Four gears recorded strong gear strength: advocacy (2.3); political will (2.3); legislation and policy (2.3); and coordination, goals and monitoring (2.7). The remaining four gears had moderate gear strength: funding and resources (1.3); training and program delivery (1.9); promotion (2.0); and research and evaluation (1.3). Key policy and program gaps identified by the committee included sub-optimal coordination across partners, inadequate coverage and quality of services, insufficient government funding, sub-optimal enforcement of policies, and inadequate monitoring of existing initiatives. Prioritized recommendations from the process were: 1) strengthen advocacy and empower breastfeeding champions, 2) strengthen breastfeeding regulations, including maternity protection, 3) strengthen capacity for providing breastfeeding services, and 4) expand and sustain breastfeeding awareness initiatives. Conclusions The moderate environment for scaling-up breastfeeding in Ghana can be further strengthened by addressing identified gaps in policy and programs.

Source: UG
Piloting Laboratory Quality System Management in Six Health Facilities in Nigeria

Background: Achieving accreditation in laboratories is a challenge in Nigeria like in most African countries. Nigeria adopted the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa Stepwise Laboratory (Quality) Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (WHO/AFRO– SLIPTA) in 2010. We report on FHI360 effort and progress in piloting WHO-AFRO recognition and accreditation preparedness in six health facility laboratories in five different states of Nigeria. Method: Laboratory assessments were conducted at baseline, follow up and exit using the WHO/AFRO– SLIPTA checklist. From the total percentage score obtained, the quality status of laboratories were classified using a zero to five star rating, based on the WHO/AFRO quality improvement stepwise approach. Major interventions include advocacy, capacity building, mentorship and quality improvement projects. Results: At baseline audit, two of the laboratories attained 1- star while the remaining four were at 0- star. At follow up audit one lab was at 1- star, two at 3-star and three at 4-star. At exit audit, four labs were at 4- star, one at 3-star and one at 2- star rating. One laboratory dropped a ‘star’ at exit audit, while others consistently improved. The two weakest elements at baseline; internal audit (4%) and occurrence/incidence management (15%) improved significantly, with an exit score of 76% and 81% respectively. The elements facility and safety was the major strength across board throughout the audit exercise. Conclusion: This effort resulted in measurable and positive impact on the laboratories. We recommend further improvement towards a formal international accreditation status and scale up of WHO/AFRO– SLIPTA implementation in Nigeria.

Source: UG
Piloting Puberty Content Books And A Teacher Training Guide In Sierra Leone: A Qualitative Assessment.

Introduction: Ensuring young people receive adequate information and guidance about puberty is essential for healthy adolescent transitions. Although many countries are moving toward including comprehensive sexuality education in national curricula, content on puberty during early adolescence, including peer pressure and stigma related to physical and emotional changes, are rarely included. Limited evidence exists about the inclusion of puberty education in schools, and the role of teachers in delivering such content in low-and middle-income countries, including Sierra Leone. Methods: We conducted a qualitative assessment using multiple methodologies (in-depth interviews with teachers; focus group discussions with girls and boys; key informant interviews with teacher training lecturers and government) to explore the feasibility and acceptability of a puberty education package (a teacher training guide and boys’ and girls’ puberty books) for primary school teachers to introduce puberty content in Sierra Leone. Results: Three key themes were identified, including the importance of teacher comfort in discussing puberty, the value of the teacher’s guide for delivering puberty content, and system and resource constraints that impact the implementation of puberty education. Additional insights included how integrating puberty education into existing curriculum courses may be more effective than stand-alone puberty classes; education systems can enable in-service and pre-service teacher training, along with culturally appropriate puberty resources, to increase effective puberty education delivery in schools; and governments serve a key role in providing puberty education teacher training, ensuring sustainable funding to retain trained teachers, and offering guidance on national curriculum requirements on puberty education. Discussion: There is a strong need to integrate puberty education into formal educational systems, with well-trained teachers serving a valuable role in its delivery. Research is needed on how best to scale sustainable teacher training Interventions to support the delivery of puberty education to adolescents in low- and middle-income contexts.

Source: UG
The Place of Military Coup D` Etat in African Politics: The Case of 2013 Egypt Military Coup D` Etat.

The study set out to investigate the place of military coup d`etat in the conduct of world politics and the level of impression to which military coup d`etat has had on the development of contemporary African politics, with special focus on the 2013 Egypt military coup that led to the overthrow of Mohammed Morsi. The study is on the context of the local, regional and international socio-political, economic, and psychological factors which appeared to have tremendously influenced the cause of military coups in Africa. It found out that after the Cold War, the military and politics seem to have been odd bed-fellows because liberal democratic governance and human rights and freedoms seemed to have characterized the international system. The military was viewed as a state actor that is tasked with the responsibility of protecting the country against external aggression. The resurgence of the military in the conduct of African politics in the aftermath of the Cold War seems to be a clear manifestation of the fact that the military is a powerful force to reckon with in the study and practice of world politics. The study also examined the causes of military coup d` in the conduct of African politics. It found out that although, the influence of military coup d` in African politics appears to have had to its credit both positive and negative effects in the international system, these effects whether good or bad seem to have impacted on one way or the other the relationship between and among states and non-state actors in the international system. The study also found out that the credibility of the military as a tangible determinant of state power may be questionable based on the way and manner it seizes and controls political power. Finally, the study also found out that as a result of the rational actor model of foreign policy decision making the Nations State, which appears to be the primary actor in world politics most often than not consider their foreign policy interest at the expense of good governance, rule of law and human rights. This becomes more manifest in the 2013 Egypt military coup d`etat, which was subjected to varied standpoints by both states and non state actors, where states like the US, UK, France, Saudi Arabia, China, Western media failed to describe the ouster of a democratically elected president Mohammed Morsi as a military coup d`etat. Whiles Turkey, Qatar, Iran, al-Shabab, Hamas and others also interpreted and condemned it as a military coup.

Source: UG
The Place of Negotiation and Protocol in a Trade War: A Case Study of U.S.-China Trade Relations

This study is intended to provide information on the trade war between the U.S and China. It addresses negotiation and protocol as diplomatic tools used to ease tensions amongst states at the height of the ongoing economic conflict. It analyses the issues raised from the trade dispute between the U.S. and China and highlights the crucial use of negotiation, which is the key function in diplomacy, and acts as a form of soft power to achieve national interest. The methodology applied included academic research based on qualitative analysis as well as quantitative research in the form of expert interviews. The thesis further explores the consequences of the trade war in the international system as well as the challenges associated with diplomacy between Washington and Beijing. The results show that the trade war between U.S and China do not only affect the parties involved, but also other states, non-state actors and businesses holding trade and diplomatic relations with the U.S and China such as WTO. States can use a variety of strategies to mitigate the negative effects of the ongoing trade war. This study adds new insights to the existing literature on the trade war between the U.S. and China, diplomacy and its effects on long term relationships within the international system.

Source: UG
Placental malaria and the risk of malaria in infants in a high malaria transmission area in Ghana: A prospective cohort study

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
Plagiarism: Knowing and It

Issues of plagiarism date back to many centuries and have had a toll on academics and professionals all over the world. People may fall to plagiarism intentionally or unintentionally and there is always a price to pay for a person’s actions or inactions. Myriads of excuses have often been assigned by plagiarists. There is, however, no excuse for plagiarism as offenders risk sullying their academic reputations or being surcharged or both. Given this background, it becomes imperative that as academics, we get a thorough understanding of what constitutes plagiarism or otherwise in our academic writings. This presentation on plagiarism aims at delving into the roots of plagiarism, its types and how to avoid it through manual or technological means.

Source: UG
Planned Behaviour of Mother In-Laws about Traditional Newborn Care Practices in the North Gonja District

Majority of neonatal morbidity and mortality occur within the first week of life which is attributed to poor care practices provided by informal caregivers at home. Among the plethora of literature read, studies have indicated that non-adherence to standard newborn care practices at home and socio-cultural factors contributed to the crawling decrease in newborn morbidity and mortality. It was observed in the North Gonja district population that, women in labor attend health facilities accompanied by their mother in-laws. Therefore, this study explored the planned behaviour of mother in-laws about traditional newborn care practices in the North Gonja District, using the Theory of Planned Behaviour as an organizing framework. An explorative descriptive design was used. Face-to-face interviews were conducted on 14 mother in-laws who met the inclusion criteria. A semi-structured interview guide through purposive sampling technique was used to collect data. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data after verbatim transcription of the audio taped interviews. Seven major themes were derived from the data which included; five (5) theoretic and two (2) emerged from the data. The findings suggested that mother in-laws traditionally have more authority over the care of their grandchildren even when it is against the wish of their daughter in-laws (daughter in-laws must accept their decisions on newborn care practices). The findings of the study also discovered that, mother in-laws were influenced by their traditional norms. These beliefs can be traced to their customary roots which they find difficult to avoid in the care of the newborn grandbaby. However, attention was drawn to the fact that financial constraints, inadequate health information, among others were possible factors to practice traditional newborn care. These findings of the study have implications for Nursing practice, Nursing research, and Nursing Education.

Source: UG