ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Biopsychosocial analysis of antibiotic use for the prevention or management of COVID-19 infections: A scoping review

Background: The novelty and complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in various coping mechanisms adopted by individuals as a means of averting the perceived fatalities of the pandemic. The use of antibiotics in the management of COVID-19 is clinically recommended under specific conditions. However, there are increasing trends of non-adherence to the recommended criteria resulting in the unwarranted use of antibiotics as an adaptative approach to the ongoing pandemic. Objective: The objective was to identify and classify factors associated with the unwarranted use of antibiotics in the management of COVID-19 from published literature and the perspectives of key stakeholders along a Bio psychosocial model. Methods: Literature was searched in the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar for studies published between 31st December 2019 and 31st January 2022. The Arskey and O’Malley framework modified by Levac in the six-stage methodological process was adopted for this review and included: a) identification of research questions, b) identification of relevant research articles, c) selection of studies, d) data charting and synthesis, e) summary, discussion and analysis, and f) stakeholder consultations. Results: Out of 10,252 records identified from all sources, 12 studies were selected for inclusion in this scoping review. The selected articles reflected both antibiotic use and COVID-19 whilst capturing the biological (medical) and psychosocial perspectives. Most of the studies reported the overuse or abuse of Azithromycin especially in hospital settings. Common themes across the review and stakeholder consultations included fear, anxiety, media influences and deficits in public knowledge. Conclusion: The findings of the study highlight the complexity of antibiotic control especially in the context of a pandemic. The identified determinants of antibiotic use provide the necessary framework to simulate health emergencies and be better positioned in the future through the development of targeted and comprehensive policies on antibiotic stewardship.

Source: UG
Biosand filter as a household water treatment technology in ghana and its ecobusiness potential: An assessment using a lifecycle approach

Biosand filter basically applies a system of sand, gravels and biologically active microorganisms to remove unwanted substances from drinking water. Field trials of the biosand filter for domestic water treatment in rural communities have shown remarkable health gains from its application. As such, there are calls to scale up its application in developing countries. This study investigated factors that may influence the acceptability of the biosand filter at the household level in rural communities in Ghana. The study further applied lifecycle environmental and cost assessments to analyse the eco-efficiency potential of the biosand filter and examined prospects of leveraging this potential for green business development. The key demographic and socio-economic indicators of biosand filter acceptability related to gender, age, education and wealth. Females showed greater interest in the biosand filter, while discrete increase in age, relative advancement in education and economic status of respondents may each increase the prospects of purchasing biosand filter. Compared to local sachet water production, which was considered as a quasialternative to the biosand filter, it was established that the latter has superior eco-efficiency, provided quite comparable profitability and potentially viable for eco-business development. The information yielded by this study is useful for scaling up considerations of the biosand filter technology in Ghana and other West African countries. © 2015 L&H Scientific Publishing, LLC.

Source: UG
Biosand Filtration as a Green Approach to Septic Tank Effluent Management in a Tertiary Institution in Ghana

Sewage and household effluents at some institutions in Ghana have been discharged into the ocean for years. Thisdegrades environmental media and is detrimental to ecological systems. The Three Local Plastic Barrel-Biosand Filter (TLPB-BSF) is an innovation on the slow sand filter that has been used to prevent discharge of raw sewage into the environment. The study aimed to test the performance of a modified BSF on sewage tank effluent and assess suitability of the filtrate for non-drinking purposes at a tertiary institution renamed KOTU to maintain confidentiality. Method: A filtration system made of three modified interconnected BSF was constructed on-site, with last filter connected to a storage tank. The modification was the provision of an additional media (charcoal) in the second barrel. Two sample collections were made from the system one week apart. The pre-filtrate samples were raw septic tank effluent (STE) and the samples obtained after running system was Biosand filter effluent (BSFE). Samples were analysed for physical and microbiological parameters at designated laboratories. Measured values of the parameters in pre-filtrate and filtrate samples were compared with EPA (Ghana) reference values. The removal efficiency of a parameter was computed as the difference between pre-filtrate and filtrate values expressed as a percentage of the pre-filtrate value. Results: Most of the effluent parameters from the BSF were within the EPA standards, while others were unacceptable. Removal efficiencies obtained for the parameters were: Ni trogen (83.3%), Phosphorus (89.5%), Total Suspended Solids (71.3%), Total Dissolved Solids (66.2%), Total coliform (99.9%), Faecal coliform (99.7%) and E. coli (97.6%). Conclusion: BSF is effective for upgrading physical and microbial quality of sewage at household and institutional level, prior to discharge in the environment. It produced a filtrate that met most of EPA standards for irrigation of non-edible crops.

Source: UG
Biosecurity measures to reduce influenza infections in military barracks in Ghana

Background Military barracks in Ghana have backyard poultry populations but the methods used here involve low biosecurity measures and high risk zoonosis such as avian influenza A viruses or Newcastle disease. We assessed biosecurity measures intended to minimize the risk of influenza virus infection among troops and poultry keepers in military barracks. Go to: Findings We educated troops and used a questionnaire to collect information on animal populations and handling practices from 168 individuals within 203 households in military barracks. Cloacal and tracheal samples were taken from 892 healthy domestic and domesticated wild birds, 91 sick birds and 6 water samples for analysis using molecular techniques for the detection of influenza A virus. Of the 1090 participants educated and 168 that responded to a questionnaire, 818 (75%) and 129 (76.8%) respectively have heard of pandemic avian influenza and the risks associated with its infection. Even though no evidence of the presence of avian influenza infection was found in the 985 birds sampled, only 19.5% of responders indicated they disinfect their coops regularly and 28% wash their hands after handling their birds. Vaccination of birds and use of personal protective clothing while handling the birds were low putting the people at risk. Go to: Conclusion Though some efforts have been made to improve biosecurity practices, interventions that help to protect the poultry flock from direct contact have to be practiced. Basic hygiene like washing of hands with soap and running water and regular cleaning of chicken coops are needed to prevent the spread of diseases among birds and between birds and humans.

Source: UG
Biosecurity measures to reduce influenza infections in military barracks in Ghana

Abstract Background Military barracks in Ghana have backyard poultry populations but the methods used here involve low biosecurity measures and high risk zoonosis such as avian influenza A viruses or Newcastle disease. We assessed biosecurity measures intended to minimize the risk of influenza virus infection among troops and poultry keepers in military barracks. Findings We educated troops and used a questionnaire to collect information on animal populations and handling practices from 168 individuals within 203 households in military barracks. Cloacal and tracheal samples were taken from 892 healthy domestic and domesticated wild birds, 91 sick birds and 6 water samples for analysis using molecular techniques for the detection of influenza A virus. Of the 1090 participants educated and 168 that responded to a questionnaire, 818 (75%) and 129 (76.8%) respectively have heard of pandemic avian influenza and the risks associated with its infection. Even though no evidence of the presence of avian influenza infection was found in the 985 birds sampled, only 19.5% of responders indicated they disinfect their coops regularly and 28% wash their hands after handling their birds. Vaccination of birds and use of personal protective clothing while handling the birds were low putting the people at risk. Conclusion Though some efforts have been made to improve biosecurity practices, interventions that help to protect the poultry flock from direct contact have to be practiced. Basic hygiene like washing of hands with soap and running water and regular cleaning of chicken coops are needed to prevent the spread of diseases among birds and between birds and humans.

Source: UG
Biosynthesis of Neocarazostatin A Reveals the Sequential Carbazole Prenylation and Hydroxylation in the Tailoring Steps

Neocarazostatin A (NZS) is a bacterial alkaloid with promising bioactivities against free radicals, featuring a tricyclic carbazole nucleus with a prenyl moiety at C-6 of the carbazole ring. Here, we report the discovery and characterization of the biosynthetic pathway of NZS through genome mining and gene inactivation. The in vitro assays characterized two enzymes: NzsA is a P450 hydroxylase and NzsG is a new phytoene-synthase-like prenyltransferase (PTase). This is the first reported native PTase that specifically acts on the carbazole nucleus. Finally, our in vitro reconstituted experiment demonstrated a coupled reaction catalyzed by NzsG and NzsA tailoring the NZS biosynthesis.

Source: UG
Bird species diversity and abundance in the Abiriw Sacred Grove in the Eastern Region, Ghana

The sacred grove concept is one of the strategies developed by many human societies to conserve biological resources using a traditional approach. Sacred groves are currently under threat from anthropogenic activities due to lack of enforcement of traditional edicts to check encroachment. The birds inhabiting the Abiriw Sacred Grove in the Eastern Region of Ghana were surveyed between February and April, 3005 to determine the current ecological status of the grove, and to establish a bird species list. The transact count method was used to sample the birds in the grove. A total of 411 individual birds belonging to 22 families and 66 species was recorded, out of which 211 individuals of 41 species occurred in the forest-cultivated land boundary, 111 (36 species) in pristine forest, and 89 (40 species) in secondary forest. A significant proportion of species in the grove were savanna specialists. Similarly indices indicated different levels of degradation of the various blocks. The current situation needs immediate attention to stem the tide of fragmentation and degradation.

Source: UG
Birth Companionship: Perceptions of Postnatal Mothers in Tamale Teaching Hospital

Childbirth is a stressful and challenging experience in the life of reproductive women. Most women going through this process do that without companionship from family members despite the demands and challenges accompanying labour. Literature on companionship during labour is inadequate and the practice is rare in hospitals in Ghana. This study therefore explored the perceptions of postnatal mothers about companionship during labour. The study adopted a qualitative exploratory descriptive design with the social support conceptual model as a guide to the study. Using a semi-structured interview guide, data were collected through face-to-face in-depth interviews with fourteen purposively selected mothers who delivered at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. After thematic content analysis of the transcribed data, five major themes were derived. These were; desire for companionship during labour, desired sources of companionship during labour, desired types of companionship during labour, perceived barriers to companionship and experiences of childbirth in a health facility. In conclusion, the findings suggest that there is an imminent need for companionship during labour. However, some institutional challenges inhibit the pursuit for companionship during labour. These findings have implications for policy formulations, future research and nursing practice.

Source: UG
Birth preparedness and complications readiness among women in disadvantaged rural districts of Ghana

Introduction Essentially all women and babies irrespective of their economic and social status should reach their full potential for health and well-being. The study assessed the readiness of mothers and their preparedness for birth across three disadvantaged rural districts in Ghana. Methods A multi-centre quantitative survey from January to December 2018 using a multistage sampling approach was employed. Using a structured questionnaire data from mothers attending antenatal and postnatal clinics in three main ecological zones of Ghana were collected. Women who provided informed consent were consecutively recruited until the sample size was achieved. For categorical data, summary tables, proportions and percentage are presented. Multivariate logistic regression analysis determined the efect of selected characteristics on birth prepared‑ ness. Ethics approval was obtained from the Navrongo Health Research Centre. Results A total of 1058 mothers were enrolled: 33.6%, 33.4% and 33.0% respectively from the Ada west, Upper Den‑ kyira west and Builsa south districts. About 94% of the women had prior knowledge of birth preparedness. Approxi‑ mately 22.6% (95%CI 20.1, 25. 2) of the mothers were assessed to have poor birth preparedness: 8.0% in Builsa south, 27.8% in Ada west and 31.7% in Upper Denkyira west. Prenatal and postnatal data showed no statistically signifcant diference in poor preparedness (21.9% vs 23.3%; p-value>0.05). Maternal age, employment status, religious afli‑ ation and parity were not associated with birth preparedness (p-value>0.05). Area of study (P<0.001), educational level (P<0.016), marital status (p<0.001) and antenatal contacts (<0.001) were signifcantly associated with birth preparedness. Conclusions As an important safe motherhood strategy woman should plan their pregnancy and birth well to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality. Policy initiatives should take into consideration area of residence, educa‑ tion, marital status and antenatal contacts of women.

Source: UG
Birth-Associated Neonatal Encephalopathy: Postresuscitation Care in West African Newborns

The West African subregion has the highest burden of neonatal mortality globally and the neonatal mortality rate is decreasing very slowly. A high proportion of newborn deaths are preventable and improved quality of care can reduce long-term morbidity in survivors. Perinatal asphyxia is the major cause of death and disability in term infants in the subregion. Neonatal resuscitation training programs have reduced stillbirths and early neonatal mortality but the overall effect on survival to discharge, population-based perinatal mortality, and long-term impairment is uncertain. Gaps in the health system and quality of postresuscitation care for affected newborns may defeat gains from global efforts to improve care around the time of birth. The aim of this review is to discuss the current situation of postresuscitation care of term infants with presumed birth-associated neonatal encephalopathy in West Africa. Limitations in diagnosing and treating affected infants and feasible interventions to improve acute and postdischarge care are discussed.

Source: UG
Bis[(3-chlorobenzy]) 2-phenyl- propanediotate dehydrate

In the asymmetric unit of the title compound. 2C7H9CIN+… C2H2O22-2H2O, there are two crystallographically independent cations, one dianion and two water molecules. The dihedral angle between the two carboxylate groups of the dianion is 78.1 (2). In the crystal, the components are held together by N-H, O, O-H … O and C-H … O hydrogen bonds forming a layer parallel to the bc plane, with the bydrophilic and hydrophobic groups located I the inner and outer regions of the layers, respectively.

Source: UG
Bis[(3-chlorobenzyl)ammonium] 2-phenylpropanedioate dihydrate

In the asymmetric unit of the title compound, 2C7H9ClN+ - C9H6O4 2 2H2O, there are two crystallographically independent cations, one dianion and two water molecules. The dihedral angle between the two carboxylate groups of the dianion is 78.1 (2) . In the crystal, the components are held together by N—H O, O—H O and C—H O hydrogen bonds, forming a layer parallel to the bc plane, with the hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups located in the inner and outer regions of the layers, respectively.

Source: UG
Biting Behavior and Molecular Identification of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Subspecies in Some Selected Recent Yellow Fever Outbreak Communities in Northern 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
Biting Behaviour, Spatio-Temporal Dynamics, And The Insecticide Resistance Status Of Malaria Vectors In Diferent Ecological Zones 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
The blessings and curses of job stress: Exploring the job stress – OCB/CWB Nexus among Ghanaian bankers

There have been mixed and inconclusive findings about the relationship between job stress and voluntary behaviour universally. Drawing from the social exchange and conservation resource theories, this study examines the relationship between job stress and the organizational citizenship behaviour, OCB and counterproductive work behaviour, CWB among Ghanaian bankers. A sample of 363 Ghanaian bankers from 18 commercial banks in Ghana were used for the study. The study found a significant negative relationship between job stress and the citizenship behaviour of the bankers. Though a cause and effect relationship was found between job stress and unproductive behaviours, the relationship was negative. The study explained this finding on the basis of more Millennials entering today’s work environment. This study is the first to examine the job stress – voluntary behaviour nexus in the Ghanaian banking sector and thus has practical implications for the sector. © Springer International Publishing AG, part of Springer Nature 2019.

Source: UG
Blood C‐peptide concentration as a proxy marker of cardiovascular disease: An observational cross‐sectional study

Background and Aims: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of disability and early death in sub‐Saharan Africa. Most of the current blood tests for CVD diagnosis involve performing about three test profiles; often at additional cost to patients. C‐peptide, a cleavage product of proinsulin, is a promising marker that has the potential to serve as a proxy marker for diagnosing CVDs in resource‐ poor settings. Methodology: The study was an observational cross‐sectional one and involved 127 consenting persons diagnosed with CVD and 127 individuals without CVD. The socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics of participants were obtained. Blood levels of C‐peptide, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), total creatinine kinase (CK), creatine kinase myocardial bound (CKMB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), propeptide of brain natriuretic peptide (PBNP), Troponin T, lipids, and biomarkers of kidney and liver function were analyzed using ELISA and an automated analyzer. Insulin resistance was computed using the modified homeostatic model assess ment (HOMA‐IR). Results: The CVD Group had significantly higher levels of C‐peptide, CK, CKMB, troponin T, PBNP, FPG, HOMA‐IR, and several selected kidney, liver, and lipid parameters compared to the non‐CVD Group (p < 0.05 for all). Troponin T recorded a positive correlation (r = 0.34, p < 0.001) with C‐peptide among the CVD Group. The sensitivity and specificity of C‐peptide in identifying CVD were 96.1% and 91.3% respectively (area under the curve = 0.938, p < 0.001). Conclusion: C‐peptide levels were higher in the CVD Group and appeared to be a valuable (high sensitivity and specificity) biomarker in detecting CVD.

Source: UG
Blood donor variability is a modulatory factor for P. falciparum invasion phenotyping assays

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