ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Competence-based education: reflections on the context of teaching agriculture in Ghana’s pre-tertiary schools

The ideal context for competence-based education (CBE) in the global south appears elusive with negative ramifications on both the teacher and the student. Using Ghana as a case study, this article shines light on the research question: What are the contexts and the implications of the contexts in which agriculture is taught on competence-based education? Drawing on a mixed methods approach involving cross-sectional data on 112 students, 238 teachers, and qualitative enquiries involving key informant interviews, and on-site observations. The findings showed inadequate facilities and low enrolment in agriculture. Specifically, 34% of pre-tertiary schools had less than 5% of the total student population offering agriculture. Theory-based pedagogies still dominate contrary to the core principles of competence-based education, culminating in students limited hands-on exposure that demotivates teachers and learners. We recommend the Ministry of Education focuses on competence-based education by increasing fund ing allocation to address the inadequate facilities, classrooms, and equipment needed for the effective teaching, learning, and the practice of agriculture. This article argues for sustained investment and conscious efforts directed at addressing challenges constraining CBE to allay the myths, drudgery, and low potentials ascribed to agriculture, with an ultimate aim to motivate the youth to pursue agriculture as a career and game-changer in providing self-employment and resolving the high unemployment phenomenon in the sub-region.

Source: UG
Competing with Marketing Channels and Logistics in Africa's Booming Markets: An Investigation of Emerging Supply Chain Management Practices in Ghana

Using Ghana as the African context for testing the applicability of supply chain management, this study reveals that firms there place less emphasis on logistics and channels management practices relative to product and pricing marketing mix elements. However, this situation is changing in response to the perceived positive impact of the regulatory and technological environment on market-share competitive performance. Those firms that emphasize integration of both logistics and channels management practices exhibited the strongest competitive market-share and financial performance; firms whose practices placed moderate emphasis on both logistics and channels management integration reported moderate levels of market-share and financial performance. These results suggest that firms in Ghana compete along a continuum of supply chain integration primarily on the basis of the increasingly market-oriented business environment. © 2015, Copyright © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Source: UG
Competitive clientelism and the political economy of mining in Ghana

This paper offers a political economy explanation to the question of why over 100 years of mineral resource extraction in Ghana has failed to translate into broadbased development. It does so through the lens of political settlements, which draws attention to how relations of power and ideas shape elite commitment to allocating mineral resources towards long-term development goals. The analysis draws attention to how clientelist political pressures engendered by Ghana’s highly competitive electoral system have historically underpinned the diversion of mineral revenues towards shorter-term goals of maintaining the stability of ruling coalitions. In particular, all ruling coalitions have allocated significant shares of mineral rents to chiefs not necessarily for the socio-economic development of their communities, but mainly because political elites want to avoid provoking resistance from a group in society that brokers land and votes in rural areas. These findings challenge recent suggestions concerning the centrality of inclusive political settlements for the effective management of mineral rents. As the analyses reveal, broad-based elite inclusion can also carry the danger of undermining the effective management of rents for long-term development if mineral rents are deployed with the aim of ’buying-off‘ elites who can potentially undermine the stability of ruling coalitions. Under such circumstances, inclusive political settlements may at best result in unproductive peace, as substantial mineral resources are shared for consumption rather than development.

Source: UG
Competitive clientelism and the politics of core public sector reform in Ghana

Although Ghana has implemented several donor-sponsored public sector reforms (PSRs) in an attempt to improve core areas of state functionality, the impact of such reforms remains generally disappointing. In this paper, we show that the nature of the political settlement in Ghana, described as one of ‘competitive clientelism’, is central to understanding the country’s limited success in improving the effectiveness of public institutions. Faced with a credible threat of losing power to excluded factions in competitive elections, reform initiatives tend to be driven largely by the logic of the maintenance of ruling governments, rather than by their potential to enhance the effectiveness of state institutions. This has often resulted in decisions that undermine reform efforts, ranging from needless and costly institutional duplications to the politicisation of the bureaucracy through patronage-based appointments, and the wholesale removal of public servants perceived to be associated with previous regimes. In this political environment, policy discontinuities across ruling coalitions are a norm, undermining the impact of reform initiatives that require a longer-time horizon to bear fruit.

Source: UG
Competitiveness of Ghana’s Upstream Petroleum Fiscal Regime: Fit for Purpose?

This chapter assesses the attractiveness of Ghana’s upstream petroleum fiscal regime against key features of optimal fiscal policy, namely: efficiency of targeting economic rents, risk sharing, neutrality and progressiveness. We also identify potential fiscal reform options that Ghana can consider in optimising its fiscal regime. Various full lifecycle cash flow models are estimated using three oil field sizes—large (750 mmboe), medium (250 mmboe), small (50 mmboe)—with different cost profiles and four different pre- and post-Jubilee contract terms. Our results show that Ghana’s fiscal regime is investor-friendly with an average effective tax rate (AETR) or government take of 51.38% from royalties, IOC income taxes, and additional oil entitlements (AOE). The inclusion of the State’s Carried and Participating Interest (state take) pushes the AETR into the 65%–75% range, comparable with 65%–85% IMF benchmark values. In the context of Ghana’s low resource base, this balances the trade-offs between investment promotion and securing revenues to the State, especially when compared with other countries in the region and beyond. Also, we find that Ghana’s hybrid fiscal regime is regressive at the lower end of the oil price scale if oil prices are below $60/bbl while being slightly progressive with increasing oil prices above $60/bbl. In terms of the windfall tax structure, simulations using four tax scenarios indicate that the current AOE regime underperforms on the size and timing of revenues generated to the State. The windfall tax regime can be vastly simplified and at the same time accrue more revenues to the State by reducing the current five tiers to one: using a higher top headline rate while also lowering the trigger threshold. Furthermore, Ghana can also consider introducing targeted fiscal packages aimed at maximising economic recovery of over 500 mmboe of stranded reserves. Finally, we note significant institutional challenges regarding the capacity of some State agencies to efficiently and effectively monitor petroleum costs. In the absence of a change to the fiscal regime, the ability of Ghana’s regulatory and commercial institutions to monitor and audit costs will determine the extent to which the nation will generate significant revenues beyond just royalties and State participation.

Source: UG
Complement binding to erythrocytes is associated with macrophage activation and reduced haemoglobin in Plasmodium falciparum malaria

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
Complement receptor 1 is a sialic acid independent erythrocyte receptor of Plasmodium falciparum

Plasmodium falciparum is a highly lethal malaria parasite of humans. A major portion of its life cycle is dedicated to invading and multiplying inside erythrocytes. The molecular mechanisms of erythrocyte invasion are incompletely understood. P. falciparum depends heavily on sialic acid present on glycophorins to invade erythrocytes. However, a significant proportion of laboratory and field isolates are also able to invade erythrocytes in a sialic acid-independent manner. The identity of the erythrocyte sialic acid-independent receptor has been a mystery for decades. We report here that the complement receptor 1 (CR1) is a sialic acid-independent receptor for the invasion of erythrocytes by P. falciparum. We show that soluble CR1 (sCR1) as well as polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against CR1 inhibit sialic acid-independent invasion in a variety of laboratory strains and wild isolates, and that merozoites interact directly with CR1 on the erythrocyte surface and with sCR1-coated microspheres. Also, the invasion of neuraminidase-treated erythrocytes correlates with the level of CR1 expression. Finally, both sialic acid-independent and dependent strains invade CR1 transgenic mouse erythrocytes preferentially over wild-type erythrocytes but invasion by the latter is more sensitive to neuraminidase. These results suggest that both sialic acid-dependent and independent strains interact with CR1 in the normal red cell during the invasion process. However, only sialic acid-independent strains can do so without the presence of glycophorin sialic acid. Our results close a longstanding and important gap in the understanding of the mechanism of erythrocyte invasion by P. falciparum that will eventually make possible the development of an effective blood stage vaccine.

Source: UG
The complementarity of humility hypothesis: Individual, relational, and physiological effects of mutually humble partners

We report two studies of romantic couples that examine the interactive effects of actor and partner humility on individual, relational, and physiological well-being. Using both longitudinal (Study 1) and physiological (Study 2) methods from two samples of romantic couples, we explored the interactive effects of actor and partner humility. Individuals in dyads with complementary high humility reported better mental health over time following a major life transition, the birth of their first child, in Study 1 and higher relationship satisfaction and lower physiological responses (i.e. blood pressure) following the discussion of a topic of disagreement in Study 2. These results suggest that being humble is beneficial when one has a humble partner, but being arrogant – especially within a disagreement with one’s partner – could undermine the benefits of humility. That is, the benefits of humility are greatest in dyads in which both partners are humble.

Source: UG
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use by Ghanaian Patients with Breast Cancer

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used by Ghanaian patients with breast cancer. We explored the experiences of CAM use among women with breast cancer. Twelve women participated in individual, in-depth interviews. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis anchored in the social constructivist paradigm. Findings show that most participants viewed CAM use (i.e., herbal medicine and faith healing) as a lost cause. In other words, participants’ accounts suggested that CAM use for treating breast cancer had little or no chance of succeeding. Our findings highlight the public health consequences of using herbal medicine and faith healing for treating breast cancer. They also highlight the complexity of the breast cancer experience for Ghanaian patients and provide opportunities for health literacy promotion. Additional studies are needed to identify the scope of the risk factors associated with CAM use for treating breast cancer in Ghana.

Source: UG
Complementary Feeding Indicators in Relation to Micronutrient Status of Ghanaian Children Aged 6–23 Months: Results from a National Survey

development in infants and young children. The associations between complementary feeding and growth have been studied well, but less is known about the relationship between complementary feeding and micronutrient status. Methods: Using data from a national cross-sectional survey conducted in Ghana in 2017, we examined how multiple WHO-recommended complementary feeding indicators relate to anemia and the micronutrient status of children aged 6–23 months. Results: In total, 42%, 38%, and 14% of the children met the criteria for minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF), and minimum acceptable diet (MAD), respectively. In addition, 71% and 52% of the children consumed iron-rich foods and vitamin A-rich foods, respectively. The prevalence of anemia, iron deficiency (ID), iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and vitamin A deficiency (VAD) was 46%, 45%, 27%, and 10%, respectively. Inverse associations between MMF and socio-economic status were found, and MMF was associated with an increased risk of ID (55%; p < 0.013) and IDA (38%; p < 0.002). Conclusion: The pathways connecting complementary feeding and micronutrient status are complex. Findings related to MMF should be further investigated to ensure that complementary feeding programs account for the potential practice of frequent feeding with nutrient-poor foods.

Source: UG
Complete and Draft Genome Sequences of 52 Bacillus and Priestia Strains Isolated from West African Fermentations and 26 Reference Strains from a Public Culture Collection

The whole genomes of 78 Bacillus and Priestia strains isolated from West African fermented foods (n = 52) or acquired from a public culture collection (n = 26) were sequenced using long-read sequencing and assembled into draft (n = 32) and complete (n = 46) genomes, allowing comparative genomics and taxonomic assignment of these strains with putative uses in fermented foods

Source: UG
Complete excision of a large pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours localized to the pancreas and amenable to complete surgical resection are rarely reported. In West Africa, such patients present too late for surgery to be considered. In the reported case, a patient with persistent epigastric pain underwent a computed tomographic examination which led to the discovery of a large (6cm x 5cm) localized tumour in the body and tail of the pancreas. Complete resection of the tumour was performed. Histological examination showed a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour without capsular invasion. Adjuvant chemotherapy was deemed unnecessary. The patient remains symptom free 2 years after the procedure with no evidence on subsequent imaging of tumour recurrence. Although extremely rare, large pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours may still be amenable to complete excision.

Source: UG
Complete genome sequences of 11 Haemophilus ducreyi isolates from children with cutaneous lesions in Vanuatu and Ghana

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
Complete genome sequencing of two causative viruses of cassava mosaic disease in Ghana

Cassava mosaic disease (CMV), caused by one or a combination of cassava mosaic geminiviruses, is ranked among the most important constraints to profitable and efficient production of cassava. Effective control measures require in-depth knowledge of the viral causative agent. Using rolling-circle amplification and unique enzymes, the full genome of two species of cassava mosaic geminivirus isolated from infected cassava plants in Ghana were cloned into pCambia 1300 and pET-28b. The sequences of the genome were determined on an ABI sequencer and a pairwise comparison was performed with other cassava-infecting geminiviruses from different countries. It was revealed that cassava grown in Ghana is attacked by two species of geminivirus in either single or mixed infections. These are the African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV) and the East African cassava mosaic virus (EACMV)-like, with high sequence similarity of 94% and 80%, respectively, between the DNA-A and DNA-B components of each virus, and 66% and 41% similarity of the common region (CR) (for A and B accordingly). The DNA-A of ACMV and EACMV-like contained 2781 and 2800 nucleotides, respectively, while their DNA-B components had 2725 and 2734 nucleotides, respectively. ACMV DNA-A was over 97% similar to those of other ACMVs from the continent. In contrast, EACMV-like DNA-A was over 98% similar to the isolates from Cameroon and other West African countries, and less than 88% similar to other EACMV species. Thus ACMV and EACMV-like were named African cassava mosaic virus-Ghana and East African cassava mosaic Cameroon virus-Ghana. Computer analysis revealed that their genome arrangement follows the typical old world bipartite begomovirus genome. The association of these two species and their interaction might account for the severe symptoms observed on infected plants in the field and in the greenhouse.

Source: UG
Complete Spontaneous Bone Regeneration Following Partial Mandibulectomy

Bone formation in small deposits following the loss of part of the mandible has often been reported in the literature, but reports of complete bone regeneration extending over the entire anterior mandible from angle to angle is rare. Even rarer, are reports on the behaviour of such new bone in terms of facial development, over a long term and the effect of load carrying on it. Presented here is an unusual case of bone regeneration after resection of a large portion of the mandible in a 12 year-old female patient with ameloblastoma in the anterior mandible. Inter-maxillary fixation, bone grafting, or insertion of any kind of implant was not employed. Spontaneous bone regeneration was noted six weeks after surgery, and the entire resected portion of the mandible completely regenerated when the patient was seen again six years later. Mandibular growth was not significantly affected and thirteen years after her treatment, including five years of partial denture usage over the new bone, the shape of the mandible is satisfactory without any evidence of bone resorption. The periosteum was totally preserved, perhaps accounting for the complete bone regeneration and normal mandibular growth and form.

Source: UG
Complete spontaneous bone regeneration following partial mandibulectomy.

Bone formation in small deposits following the loss of part of the mandible has often been reported in the literature, but reports of complete bone regeneration extending over the entire anterior mandible from angle to angle is rare. Even rarer, are reports on the behaviour of such new bone in terms of facial development, over a long term and the effect of load carrying on it. Presented here is an unusual case of bone regeneration after resection of a large portion of the mandible in a 12 year-old female patient with ameloblastoma in the anterior mandible. Inter-maxillary fixation, bone grafting, or insertion of any kind of implant was not employed. Spontaneous bone regeneration was noted six weeks after surgery, and the entire resected portion of the mandible completely regenerated when the patient was seen again six years later. Mandibular growth was not significantly affected and thirteen years after her treatment, including five years of partial denture usage over the new bone, the shape of the mandible is satisfactory without any evidence of bone resorption. The periosteum was totally preserved, perhaps accounting for the complete bone regeneration and normal mandibular growth and form.

Source: UG
Completeness and accuracy of data transfer of routine maternal health services data in the greater Accra region

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
Completeness of obstetric referral letters/notes from subdistrict to district level in three rural districts in Greater Accra region of Ghana: an implementation research using mixed methods

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
Completion of the sequence of the nuclear ribosomal DNA subunit of Simulium sanctipauli, with descriptions of the 18S, 28S genes and the IGS

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
Complex crisis’ and the rise of collaborative natural resource governance: institutional trajectory of a wildlife governance experience in Ghana

Natural resource governance is underpinned by institutions which evolve ‘circumstantially’ over time. An attempt at understanding the contemporary institutions and governance structure of a resource requires an in-depth ethnographic enquiry. Adapting a four-phase institutional analysis framework, this study discusses the evolution and adaptation of wildlife governance structures and institutions using the unique experience of Boabeng–Fiema Monkey Sanctuary in Ghana. The study adopted a transdisciplinary research approach which was participatory and consultative. The key observations are that: wildlife institutions have gone through three main evolutionary phases, a pre-collaborative phase, which was exclusively underpinned by informal institutions; a critical juncture stage, where contextual challenges led to an adaptive response; the third and contemporary phase is a collaborative governance regime, where the erstwhile informal institutions have been complemented by formal state structures and institutions to synergistically enhance viability of the wildlife species. In spite of the problems posed to community members by the monkeys (wildlife), the study still observes a cordial human–wildlife relationship. Based on the study outcomes, we derive four key conclusions which have implications for institutionalism and natural resource governance.

Source: UG