ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Physical education programme in public primary schools: Analysis of engagement time of pupils in six selected educational circuits

Cross sectional survey was used to assess engagement time for teaching and learning PE content in a typical school week in public primary schools. Subjects were 172 out of estimated population of 300 in six randomly sampled educational circuits. Validated and reliable self-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Pre-data analyses were performed to clean data from probable errors during data entering. All data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS for Windows, Version 17). The study found that the average engagement time of pupils in physical education programme in a typical school week was less than 50% of the total allocated time prescribed on the school time table for public primary schools. Statistically, the study revealed that male and female teachers in public primary schools did not significantly differ in terms of time spent teaching PE programme in a typical school week. Similarly, both upper and lower primary school teachers did not demonstrate statistically significant difference in engagement time of pupils in a typical school week.

Source: UG
The physical finding of stress urinary incontinence among African women in Ghana.

The aim of this study is to determine the proportion of women with the physical sign of stress urinary incontinence in a sample of Ghanaian women. Two hundred randomly selected women from attendants at a convenience selected ultrasound clinic were interviewed about symptoms of urinary incontinence. A paper towel test was performed to objectively demonstrate the physical sign of stress urinary incontinence as leakage on coughing. Forty-two percent of the women had a positive paper towel test. The two major symptoms reported by the women with positive paper towel test were (1) loss of urine while waiting to use the toilet (48.2%) and (2) loss of urine on coughing (43.4%) in daily life. The physical sign of stress urinary incontinence could be present in up to 42% of Ghanaian women. © International Urogynecology Journal 2006.

Source: UG
Physical fitness of Ghanaian physiotherapists and its correlation with age and exercise engagement: a pilot study

Abstract Background The physical job demands of physiotherapists require optimal level of physical fitness (PF), which is often not evaluated in practice. In this study, we assessed selected components of physical fitness of Ghanaian physiotherapists in relation to their sex, age and frequency of exercise participation. Methods Physiotherapists practicing in four major hospitals within the Accra Metropolis of Ghana were enrolled into this cross-sectional survey. Three major components of physical fitness (flexibility, cardiorespiratory endurance and body composition) were assessed with sit and reach test, 3-min step test and BMI respectively. Unpaired sample t-test was used to determine differences in means of the three components of physical fitness betwwen males and females. Pearson correlation coefficient showed that frequency of exercise engagement and age of the participants correlated with the three components of physical fitness at p < 0.05. Results The study sample consisted of 40 participants, out of which 23 (58 %) were females. The mean age was (31.5 ± 1.4) years and majority 21 (52.5 %) was within the age range of 20-29 years. Respective mean scores for cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility and BMI were (98.2 ± 12.9 beat/min), (4.03 ± 6.15 cm) and (23.3 ± 3.4 kg/m2). Female participants were significantly more flexible than their male counterparts (5.7 ± 5.3; 1.6 ± 6.6, p = 0.034). There was a positive and significant correlation between the age of the participants and BMI (r = 0.614 and p = 0.017). However, cardiorespiratory endurance was not significantly correlated with age and frequency of exercise engagement. Conclusions The sampled physiotherapists had relatively low physical fitness compared to the age adjusted values. Age and sex are therefore crucial determinants whilst designing programmes aimed at promoting physical fitness in this group.

Source: UG
Physical inactivity among corporate bank workers in Accra, Ghana: Implications for health promotion

Introduction Any type of activity that results in caloric expenditure has the potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases; nonetheless, most people, especially office workers, are physically inactive. This study sought to evaluate the extent of physical inactivity and its determinants among the staff of selected banks in Accra, Ghana. Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving 219 banking staff randomly selected from five commercial banking institutions in Accra, Ghana. Demographic data was collected with a structured questionnaire. Physical inactivity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. Study associations were determined using univariate analysis, and multivari ate logistic regression models with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated. Results Two hundred and nineteen (219) participants were recruited, out of which 56.6% were males and 43.4% were females. The mean age (± SD) of the participants was 40.0±7.9 years. Physical inactivity was observed in 179 (81.7%) participants. The following were independently associated with physical inactivity: travel-related activities (AOR, 0.151; 95% CI, 0.059–0.384; p<0.001); working in the bank for 6–10 years (AOR, 4.617; 95% CI, 1.590–13.405; p = 0.005); and working in the bank for 11 years and above (AOR, 2.816; 95% CI, 1.076–7.368; p = 0.035). Conclusion Physical inactivity was very high among bankers. Travel-related activities reduced physical inactivity whiles working at the bank for more than six years increased physical inactivity. Thus, promoting regular physical activity, frequent monitoring, and implementation of other appropriate healthy lifestyle intervention strategies are vital to reduce risk of early onset disease conditions associated with physical inactivity in this population.

Source: UG
Physical, chemical and fungal phenology associated with the composting of 'wawa' sawdust (Triplochiton scleroxylon) used in the cultivation of oyster mushrooms in Ghana

The physical, chemical and fungal phenology during the composting of Triplochiton scleroxylon K. (Schum) sawdust was studied. Composting was carried out for 28 days. During the 28 days of composting the moisture content of the sawdust from the core portion of heap varied between 58.44 and 71.02%, whilst the pH ranged between 6.42 and 7.03. The dry weight of cellulose, hemicellulose, crude fibre and organic matter (% per unit) decreased as lignin increased. The microbial population also decreased during composting with a fungal population difference of 1.23 log cycles and bacterial population difference of 0.96 log cycles. The phenology of fungi encountered during composting and after fruiting were found to be Aspergillus species, Cladosporum herbarum, Penicillium digitatum and Trichoderma viride. © 2008 IFRJ.

Source: UG
Physical, chemical and microbiological changes in alcoholic fermentation of sugar syrup from cassava flour

Changes in alcoholic fermentation of sugar syrup produced from cassava flour with Saccharomyces cereviseae (baker's yeast) were investigated. Cassava flour paste was hydrolysed using rice malt to produce hydrolysate (sugar syrup), which was fermented at 28 - 30 °C for 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 days. The fermented sugar syrup was analysed for alcohol content, reducing sugars, specific gravity, soluble solids, pH, volatile acids and total acidity using standard analytical methods. Yeast growth was also monitored. Results showed that pH values decreased with increased total acidity with concomitant increase in yeast growth (biomass) and alcohol contents of the fermenting sugar syrup. There were decreases in soluble solid contents, refractive indices of the fermenting medium. Volatile acids (as acetic acids), increased with alcoholic fermentation. Fermentation of sugar syrup from cassava flour is associated with physical and chemical changes that occur in other form of fermentation alongside increased in biomass. © 2008 Academic Journals.

Source: UG
Physical, Chemical, And Rheological Properties Of Flour From Accessions Of Frafra Potato (Solenostemon Rotundifolius)

Frafra Potato (FP) is a climate-smart crop facing extinction in the tropical regions of Africa due to inadequate information about its properties. This study determined the physicochemical, functional, and rheological characteristics of flours from ten FP accessions to gauge their suitability for culinary purposes. The flour yield from FP tubers ranged from 59.3% (E134) to 69.3% (E111). While FP flours (FPF) exhibited consistent colour across Accessions and variations in paste clarity were noted, ranging from 5.2% (E145 and Maa-Lana) to 8.6% (WAAPP). The least gelation concentration varied from 8% (WAAPP) to 12% (E 82, 111, 132, 134, 145). Released acquisitions showed higher protein and ash content than unreleased ones. Mineral composition differed significantly among accessions, including iron, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus, each with varying bioavailability percentages. Vitamin A content also varied across accessions. Proteins common in tuber crops, such as lipoxygenase, patatin, sporamin, tarin, and protease inhibitors (Bowman-Birk PIs) were identified in FPF. Amino acid analysis revealed nineteen amino acids, including seven essentials. FPF characteristics included a bulk density of 0.9 g/ml, oil and water binding capacities of 3 g/g and 1.3 g/g, respectively, a pH of 6.4, and a titratable acidity of 0.5. All FP flours displayed standard non-Newtonian behaviour, exhibiting pseudoplastic properties. They also showed a type II sigmoidal sorption curve, indicating increased equilibrium moisture content with higher water activity. Moisture sorption studies predicted a safe storage maximum allowable moisture content. These findings have practical implications. implications for flour packaging and storage. The study underscores the culinary potential of Frafra potato and its role in addressing food and nutrition security in Ghana and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Source: UG
Physical, proximate, functional and pasting properties of flour produced from gamma irradiated cowpea (Vigna unguiculata, L. Walp)

Cowpeas are leguminous seeds widely produced and consumed in most developing countries of sub Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the physical, proximate, functional and pasting properties of flour obtained from gamma irradiated cowpea. Four cowpea cultivars were irradiated with gamma radiation at dose levels of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0 and 1.5. kGy with the unirradiated cultivars serving as controls. The samples were hammer milled, sieved and stored at 4. °C for analysis. Physical, proximate, functional, pasting properties were determined using appropriate methods. In general, the irradiation dose applied to cowpea for insect control did not significantly affect the physical and proximate properties of the flour. However, significant increase (p<0.05) was achieved in paste bulk density, water and oil absorption capacities, foam capacities and least gelation concentrations of flour in general, which may be attributed to the irradiation. The radiation reduced the swelling power and water solubility index significantly. The peak temperature, peak viscosity and setback viscosity of the pastes were significantly (p<0.05) reduced while breakdown viscosity was significantly (p<0.05) increased by the radiation. It was established that the doses used on cowpea affected both the functional and pasting properties of the flour. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

Source: UG
Physico- and biochemical properties of alginates extracted from Ecklonia maxima and Sargassum fluitans using a simple cascade process

Alginate fractions from the pelagic Sargassum fluitans (Børgesen) Børgesen and kelp, Ecklonia maxima (Osbeck) Papenfuss sourced from the coastal waters of Ghana and South Africa respectively, were extracted by a simple sequential protocol different from the conventional methods. A total of six different phycocolloids were obtained, with two extracted under ambient conditions (fractions 1A) and the remaining four under hot conditions (fractions 2A and 3A) using ethanol and CaCl2, respectively, for precipitation. These extracts were assessed for variations in their physicochemical properties, tyrosinase inhibition, antioxidation and anticoagulation activities. Molecular weights of the extracts were ~ 58–1506 kDa with their yields ranging between 4.8 to 11.1%. A sequential reduction (up to tenfold) was observed in their total phenolic compounds, proteins and sulphate contents. 1H-NMR analysis of their uronic acid block structure revealed M/G ratios less than 1 for all extracts with dominant FGG and FGGG units depicting guluronic acid rich alginate fractions. Extracts from S. fluitans, notably, showed distinct antioxidation activity comparable to the well-known antioxidants like ascorbic acid. For tyrosinase inhibition, the highest was from S. fluitans fraction 1A (~ 37.1 ± 4.38%). The variations in properties of extracts reported herein, elucidates the possibility of obtaining series of relatively desirable alginate fractions from E. maxima and Ghanaian sourced S. fluitans via this modified extraction process.

Source: UG
Physico-Chemical And Functional Properties Of Unripe Plantain And Bambara Groundnut Flour Blends For Doughnut Production.

This study evaluated the quality characteristics of doughnuts made from blend of plantain (PF) and Bambara groundnut (BGF). Four blends specifically PF90%:BGF10%, PF85%:BGF15%, PF80%:BGF20% and PF75%:BGF25% were formulated. Their composition and functional properties as well as attributes of the doughnuts were evaluated. Also, the sensory acceptability of the doughnuts was evaluated. Moisture and fat content the of blends was less than 6% and 4%, respectively, ash content was up to 2.31% and carbohydrates ranged from 69.50 to 92.12%. BGF recorded the highest protein value of 20.35%. The highest bulk density reported was 0.98 g/ml. Water absorption capacity ranged from 50.81 to 66.43% at 27°C and 51.20 to 76.53% at 70°C. The average oil absorption capacity was 49.24%. Emulsion capacity and stability were affected by the amount of BGF. Microbial analysis showed that the doughnuts were safe to eat. The overall sensory scores for the doughnuts ranged from 5.79 to 7.10. Likewise, the doughnuts were acceptable to consumers with an average rating of 7out of 9. The results of this study show that the Bambara groundnut-plantain blend is suitable for baked goods such as doughnuts and can also be used as an ingredient in various food formulations, especially gluten-free products.

Source: UG
Physico-Mechanical and Gas Permeability Characteristics of Kaolin Based Ceramic Membranes Prepared With a New Pore-Forming Agent

The objective of this study was to prepare low-cost macroporous ceramic membranes using natural kaolin obtained from deposits in Nigeria and Ghana, and powdery high density polyethelene (PHDPE) as porogen agent. The ceramic membranes have been prepared with porogen content wt% between (0 and 20)% by die pressing. Pellets were fired at 1150 °C and soaking time of 4 h. The raw materials were characterized using TG/DTA, particle size distribution (PSD) and Zeta potential. The membranes cast as circular disks were subjected for characterization studies using XRD and SEM analysis. In a bid to correlate the physico-mechanical properties vis-à-vis pore former content, the effect of the sintering temperature and pore former (PHDPE) content on porosity, density, water absorption and mechanical strength were evaluated. The membrane corrosion resistance was found to be unaltered with experimental conditions. Obtained membranes showed good porosity with maximum at about 62% with a mechanical strength that does not exceed 18 MPa. These membranes can be considered as efficient regarding the results shown in the gas permeation tests at different sintering temperatures. A PHDPE percentage of 20% and a sintering temperature of 1150 °C were chosen as the optimum for gas permeation based on enlarged pore diameter of sintered membranes.

Source: UG
The physico-mechanical influence of dehydroxylized activated local kaolin: A supplementary cementitious material for construction applications

This work presents the effect of partially replacing metakaolin with Portland limestone cement to produce mortars for construction. Teleku Bokazo kaolin was explored as a SCM in the production of mortars. The hydration product between Portland limestone and metakaolin was studied. The kaolin was heat treated to form metakaolin and partially used to replace Portland limestone cement (PLC) in mortars to explore the optimum replacement and its mechanical and durability effect. The samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phases and crystallinity of the kaolin. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) gave information on the functional groups formed during the hydration and structure and surface morphology respectively. The pastes and mortars produced were subjected to setting time, water absorption, flexure and compression strength test. The mechanical properties were observed to increase with increasing metakaolin replacements. Therefore, from the results obtained, it is suggested that 20 % replacement of Portland limestone cement with Teleku Bokazzo metakaolin can be very suitable for construction applications.

Source: UG
Physico-mechanical properties of bauxite residue-clay bricks

This study is focused on consolidating knowledge on the application of Bauxite residue in the building industry. X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) reports of the bauxite and bauxite residue are given. Physico-mechanical properties of red mud (RM)-Clay (AC) bricks are also presented. The RM-AC bricks have compositions; 90%-10%, 80%-20%, 70%-30%, 60%- 40%, 50%-50%, 40%-60% prepared and fired at sintering temperatures 800°C, 900°C and 1100°C. The experimental results obtained showed that ateach of the three stated sintering temperatures, bulk density increases as apparent porosity and water of absorption reduces. Bulk densities computed were within the range (1.3-1.8)g/cm3 at 11000°C sintering temperature. Maximum flexural strength was found to be associated with 50%-50% (Red mud-clay) composition at 1100°C. And the compressive strength (3.2-12.5) MPa range found for all batches at 1100°C sintering temperature. Generally, flexural and compressive strengths were increased with higher sintering temperature. The results obtained for various characterization analysis compares well with literature and hold potential in bauxite residue eco-friendly application as fired brick ©2006-2012 Asian Research Publishing Network (ARPN).

Source: UG
Physicochemical and functional properties of pulp and pectin from agro-waste of three Cucurbitaceae species

Cucurbita pepo L., Citrullus lanatus T. and Cucumis melo L. belong to the family Cucurbitaceae and are cultivated for their seeds. The fruit pulp and peel are discarded as agro-waste after seed removal. This study evaluated the physicochemical and functional properties of the pulp and pectin extracts from the Cucurbitaceae species. Proximate, antioxidant, total polyphenol and flavonoid contents were determined. The purity, structural and sugar constituents of the extracted pectin were analysed using spectrophotometric techniques (NMR, FTIR and LCMS). Results showed that the pulp wastes had high carbohydrate content (28.4 to 69.7%) and demonstrated high antioxidant activities (40 to 50%, 63 to 85% and 0.2 to 0.4 mg mL− 1 for DPPH, ABTS and FRAP respec tively). Cucurbita pepo L. had the highest pectin yield (13.9%), and the purity of the pectin extracts ranged from 60.4 to 75.2% for total carbohydrate and 3.3 to 4.4 % for protein. The pectin extracts showed structural simi larities. LCMS fingerprints of the pectin extracts showed that the monosaccharides comprised of mannose, rhamnose, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, xylose, arabinose and fucose. The polymers demonstrated high water absorption capacities (309 g/100 g to 604 g/100 g) and can be applied as thickeners in food systems.

Source: UG
Physicochemical and microstructural characteristics of Frafra potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius) starch

Frafra potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius) is an underutilized climate-resilient tuber crop commonly cultivated in the tropics. Different accessions have been identified and bred to broaden its application in food. This study characterized the starches extracted from ten accessions, from Ghana (released) and Burkina Faso (unreleased), in terms of yield, physicochemical, and microstructural characteristics. The starches did not differ significantly (p < .05) in color (L*) and amount (35 to 39% dry matter basis). Furthermore, there were no significant differences (p < .05) among them in amylose/amylopectin ratio, syneresis %, granule types and shapes, except for one of the unreleased accessions (E82), which had a significantly (p < .05) smaller granule size. There were, however, significant differences (p < .05) in paste clarity of the starch gels, ranging from 51 to 63% of the starch gels, as well as in the thermal properties of the starches. The XRD and FTIR spectra showed the starches to be A-type, typical of tuber starches, with relative crystallinities ranging between 30.5 to 33.5%. The ten Frafra potato cultivars were clustered into two groups using PCA procedures; one group (Maa-Lana and Nutsugah) clustering on thermal properties of starch, while the other group (E82, E111, E132, E134, E145, Manga, Naachem-Tiir, and WAAPP) on paste clarity and change in temperature. The variations in granule size and thermal characteristics of the starches could impact the performance, cooking and textural properties, of these Frafra potato accessions in food applications.

Source: UG
Physicochemical and microstructural characteristics of Frafra potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius) starch

Frafra potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius) is an underutilized climate-resilient tuber crop commonly cultivated in the tropics. Different accessions have been identified and bred to broaden its application in food. This study characterized the starches extracted from ten accessions, from Ghana (released) and Burkina Faso (unreleased), in terms of yield, physicochemical, and microstructural characteristics. The starches did not differ significantly (p < .05) in color (L*) and amount (35 to 39% dry matter basis). Furthermore, there were no significant differences (p < .05) among them in amylose/amylopectin ratio, syneresis %, granule types and shapes, except for one of the unreleased accessions (E82), which had a significantly (p < .05) smaller granule size. There were, however, significant differences (p < .05) in paste clarity of the starch gels, ranging from 51 to 63% of the starch gels, as well as in the thermal properties of the starches. The XRD and FTIR spectra showed the starches to be A-type, typical of tuber starches, with relative crystallinities ranging between 30.5 to 33.5%. The ten Frafra potato cultivars were clustered into two groups using PCA procedures; one group (Maa-Lana and Nutsugah) clustering on thermal properties of starch, while the other group (E82, E111, E132, E134, E145, Manga, Naachem-Tiir, and WAAPP) on paste clarity and change in temperature. The variations in granule size and thermal characteristics of the starches could impact the performance, cooking and textural properties, of these Frafra potato accessions in food applications

Source: UG