ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Reactions to technology change initiatives by library professionals: A model for change management in academic libraries

This study sought to find out the levels of reactions (acceptance or resistance) of library staff to technology change initiatives to examine the major predictors of reactions to technology change initiatives in the library environment. The survey approach was used in examining the reactions of employees to the adoption of technology change initiatives in academic libraries in Ghana with a particular focus on the University of Ghana Library System (UGLS). The UGLS has a total employee population of 294 employees comprising of professional, paraprofessional and non-professional librarians. The study sampled 150 respondents from the population representing 51% of the entire population. The convenience sampling technique was employed to administer questionnaires to employees in the various units of the UGLS. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used to compute means, standard deviations and correlation figures. Whereas age and length of service recorded a negative relationship with behavioural intentions to use and actual use technology, educational level showed a positive relationship. It was established that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions were all significant in predicting library professionals' reactions (acceptance/resistance) viewed in terms of their behavioural intention to use and actual use of newly introduced technologies for information services provision. Copyright © 2016 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

Source: UG
Reactive case detection of Plasmodium falciparum in western Kenya highlands: effective in identifying additional cases, yet limited effect on transmission

Background Identifying asymptomatic reservoirs of malaria parasites using index cases as entry points into the community is potentially a cost-effective way towards achieving malaria elimination. Methods Within 1 year, 1430 confirmed malaria cases were identified in Marani hospital, western Kenya. Fifty cases were followed up, and 108 index case household members and 612 neighbours within a 100 m radius were screened. As controls, samples were collected from 510 individuals matched with index cases and located at a distance of ≥ 500 m from them. Infections were diagnosed by microscopy and PCR while simultaneously collecting malaria vectors indoor using pyrethrum spray catches. Results In the index case and neighbour households, the prevalence of infection was approximately twice as high as in control households (by PCR: index cases households: 28.9%, neighbours: 25.3%, matched controls: 12.9%). In index case households, the indoor vector density (Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles funestus) was higher (0.46 female/house/night) than in neighbouring (0.31 f/h/n) and control houses (0.29 f/h/n). Conclusions Screening index case households and neighbours approximately doubles the chance to detect asymptomatic infections compared to randomly selected households. However, even if all cases were followed up, only a small proportion (˂ 10%) of the asymptomatic reservoir in the population would have been identified. Control programmes need to weigh the increased chance to find cases around index cases vs. the logistical challenges to target this subgroup within the population.

Source: UG
Reactive Case Detection Strategy for Malaria Control and Elimination: A 12 Year Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis from 25 Malaria-Endemic Countries

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
Reading for Education: the Role of Libraries

This paper examines the role reading plays in creating independent learners, reducing illiteracy in society and helping people understand themselves and others better. It highlights the relationship between reading and education and stresses the role that libraries play as one of the key stakeholders in promoting the culture of reading. The paper also presents experiences of reader developments and reading promotions from libraries of developed and developing countries. Some challenges in inculcating the culture of reading in libraries of developing countries are also highlighted. Recommendations are made for sustaining the culture of reading in developing countries.

Source: UG
Reading for pleasure among junior high school students: case study of the Saint Andrews Anglican Complex Junior High School, Sekondi

This study focused on investigating reading for pleasure among J unior high school students. The research methodology adopted for the study was the case study approa ch. A total number of 93 respondents comprising 87 Students, 5 Teachers and 1 Headteacher parti cipated in the study. Questionnaires were administered to solicit information from the respondents, whilst an interview schedule was used for the Teachers and Headteacher of the school. The findings suggested that majority of the respondents do not read for pleasure, they only engage in reading primarily to pass their examinations and not so much for their person al development, fun, or to be well informed. It was also found that the total time spent on reading daily by most of the respondents was between 1-2 hours. The research findings also showed t hat majority of the respondents consider television viewing as a serious drawback to their engagement in leisure reading. Some of the suggestions that the study offered for prom oting reading for pleasure among students were that the schools need to implement reading promotion programmes that will make reading an experience that is actively sought out b y students. The researcher also suggested that a functional school library should be set up within the basic educational system; that should be well-equipped with the necessary resources to serve t he reading needs of the children. The school library should create a conducive environment for r eading that can make the children feel at home to engage in reading for pleasure activities.

Source: UG
Reading outside the library: how the Internet has affected reading in China

Edited version of a paper presented at the World Library and Information Congress, 69th IFLA General Conference, Berlin, Germany, 1–8 August 2003. There are already more than 20.83 million host computers and 59.10 million Internet users in China. Most of them get access to the Internet at home, office or school, and a few at the library. Their needs for e-books or science and education are among what they mostly searched for through the Internet. It has been predicated that a lot of reading is done outside the library. How has the Internet been used to encourage reading in China? This paper looks at three noticeable ways starting from news online, digital journals and e-books, the printed editions of which are the main categories of traditional publications. It is also pointed out what would improve reading further, and how traditional publishing and libraries have been affected.

Source: UG
Reading the intangible heritage in tangible Akan art

The intangible aspects of Akan art give it content that has to be ‘read’ in order for it to fulfil its purpose and be enjoyed. Hence there is an inextricable link between the intangible and tangible parts of an artwork, with the tangible explaining the subject matter. It is the interpretation, and the meanings given to Akan art that makes it function effectively as an integral part of Akan culture. In some situations, art functions as a form of coded language representing the Akan world view, values, proverbs and aesthetics, in other words, the intangible aspects of their culture. Their art is thus made up of two components, the invisible and visible parts. Akan artworks are not only works of aesthetic value, they provide cultural and historical evidence of the time and period in which they were made. They reveal the technology, materials, beliefs, cultural practices and the circumstances under which they were made as well as their relations with other cultures and peoples. They are a valid source of evidence for people studying the Akan. Their art has the status of legible documents, the tangible aspects of their intangible culture. This article seeks to establish the link between the unseen components of Akan art and its visible, physical components, and to show how these dual but complementary aspects can be understood and appreciated.

Source: UG
A real options approach to investment timing decisions in utility-scale renewable energy in Ghana

a b s t r a c t Private capital is required to urgently complement government's efforts to meet initial capital outlay in renewable energy investments. However, minimising the downside risks for a given return in such a venture presents valuation challenges, including the timing of such investments. Investment timing is therefore relevant to consider when making investments in utility-scale renewable energy technologies which require high initial capital. This study assesses the value of investment delay in renewable energy projects using real options analysis. A model that combines binomial trees and Monte Carlo simulations are used to evaluate the optimal investment timing of the ﬁrst cycle of Ghana's Renewable Energy Master Plan. The model in- corporates multiple dimensions of uncertainties related to market, economic and technological factors to determine the value of delaying utility-scale renewable energy investments. The results show value in delaying investments until uncertainties are reduced and maximum beneﬁt is obtained. Also, high system capacities and favourable renewable energy policies that border on attractive feed-in tariffs are required to drive private investment in utility-scale renewable energy.

Source: UG
Real time microcalorimetric profiling of prebiotic inulin metabolism

a b s t r a c t The in vitro assessment of prebiotics involves elaborate microbiological techniques or a combination of culture techniques and molecular methods. In this study, the isothermal microcalorimeter, an instrument which can monitor the real time growth of bacteria was applied to investigate the prebiotic effect of inulin in real time. Fresh and standardized frozen faecal slurries were prepared, placed and monitored in the isothermal microcalorimeter. The faecal samples and commercial probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5®, Bifidobacterium lactis BB 12® were cultured in a mixed medium of cooked meat medium (CMM) and brain heart infusion (BHI) broth with and without supplementation with inulin and monitored in the microcalorimeter. The results showed power time (p-t) curves that were characteristic for the samples. The p-t curves of the fresh and frozen faecal samples were similar. Augmented microbial activity was observed when the faecal sample was inoculated into CMM-BHI mixed broth with significant enhancement of microbial activity detected in the presence of inulin which was reproducible. Deconvoluted p-t curves showed multiple peaks with time and intensity variance depending on presence or absence of inulin suggesting possible differences in utilization of inulin by the different groups of bacteria in the polymicrobial sample. P-t curves of the pure species did not show any significant change when inulin was supplemented into the medium likely due to the inability of the bacteria to primarily utilize inulin.

Source: UG
Realist evaluation to improve health systems responsiveness to neglected health needs of vulnerable groups in Ghana and Vietnam: Study protocol

Background Socio-economic growth in many low and middle-income countries has resulted in more available, though not equitably accessible, healthcare. Such growth has also increased demands from citizens for their health systems to be more responsive to their needs. This paper shares a protocol for the RESPONSE study which aims to understand, co-produce, implement and evaluate context-sensitive interventions to improve health systems responsiveness to health needs of vulnerable groups in Ghana and Vietnam. Methods We will use a realist mixed-methods theory-driven case study design, combining quantitative (household survey, secondary analysis of facility data) and qualitative (in-depth interviews, focus groups, observations and document and literature review) methods. Data will be analysed retroductively. The study will comprise three Phases. In Phase 1, we will understand actors’ expectations of responsive health systems, identify key priorities for interventions, and using evidence from a realist synthesis we will develop an initial theory and generate a baseline data. In Phase 2, we will co-produce jointly with key actors, the context sensitive interventions to improve health systems responsiveness. The interventions will seek to improve internal (i.e. intra-system) and external (i.e. people-systems) interactions through participatory workshops. In Phase 3, we will implement and evaluate the interventions by testing and refining our initial theory through comparing the intended design to the interventions’ actual performance. The study’s key outcomes will be: (1) improved health systems responsiveness, contributing to improved health services and ultimately health outcomes in Ghana and Vietnam and (2) an empirically-grounded and theoretically-informed model of complex contexts-mechanisms-outcomes relations, together with transferable best practices for scalability and generalisability. Decision-makers across different levels will be engaged throughout. Capacity strengthening will be underpinned by in-depth understanding of capacity needs and assets of each partner team, and will aim to strengthen individual, organisational and system level capacities.

Source: UG
Realizing Inclusive SAI: contextualizing indicators to better evaluate gender and intergenerational inequity in SAI processes and outcomes – cases from Southern and Western Africa

Despite increasing sustainable agricultural intensification (SAI) investments, indicators for detecting gender and intergenerational inequities in SAI costs and benefits sharing often remain overgeneralized, theoretical, or locally irrelevant. We examine the relative value of, and how to, customize standard SAI indicators to detect such inequities in specific socio-cultural contexts to enhance data collection for evidence-based decision making in fostering gender/youth inclusive SAI. Using focus-group discussions and key informant interviews among farmers and diverse government, NGO, private sector, and academic stakeholders in two districts in Malawi and three in Ghana, we assess the perceived roles, differentiated needs/ priorities of men, women and youth, and the sharing of SAI burdens and benefits within farming households. We investigate what context-appropriate questions to ask, to whom, and how, to collect reliable information on indicators of SAIinvestment inequities. Results illuminate context-specific, gendered and intergenerational factors shaping access to and ownership of productive resources, household decision making, SAI participation, and appropriateness of selected indicators. Combining farmers’ and local field-expert’ perspectives offers practical insights for customizing inequity indicators. Findings highlight advantages of local contextualization of SAI indicators, including insights on appropriate data-collection approaches that challenge orthodox survey/quantitative methods for detecting and assessing gender/age inequities to foster inclusive SAI.

Source: UG
Reappraisal of known malaria resistance loci in a large multicenter study

The Department of Parasitology conducts research into parasitic diseases of public health importance with the overall goal of reducing their transmission and the heavy disease burden that they impose on affected populations. The Department maintains focus on parasitic diseases in general. These include major diseases such as malaria, and others listed under the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) control initiative such as, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis, trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis.

Source: UG
Reasons for attempting suicide: An exploratory study in Ghana

This study examined the reasons for suicide attempts among patients in Ghana. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 30 informants who had been hospitalized for attempted suicide. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyse the transcribed narratives, and five main themes emerged: 1) lack of support; 2) abandonment; 3) shame; 4) existential struggles; and 5) supernatural reasons. There were gender differences with abandonment reported by only women and shame associated with economic difficulties reported only by men. Findings are discussed within the context of a socio-cultural theory of suicide behaviour, and implications for the prevention of suicide and care of suicidal persons are suggested.

Source: UG
Reasons for Missing Antiretroviral Therapy: Results from a Multi-Country Study in Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia

Objectives To identify the reasons patients miss taking their antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the pro portion who miss their ART because of symptoms; and to explore the association between symptoms and incomplete adherence. Methods Secondary analysis of data collected during a cross-sectional study that examined ART adherence among adults from 18 purposefully selected sites in Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. We interviewed 250 systematically selected patients per facility ( 18 years) on reasons for missing ART and symptoms they had experienced (using the HIV Symptom Index). We abstracted clinical data from the patients’ medical, pharmacy, and laboratory records. Incomplete adherence was defined as having missed ART for at least 48 consecu tive hours during the past 3 months. Results Twenty-nine percent of participants reported at least one reason for having ever missed ART (1278/4425). The most frequent reason was simply forgetting (681/1278 or 53%), fol lowed by ART-related hunger or not having enough food (30%), and symptoms (12%). The median number of symptoms reported by participants was 4 (IQR: 2–7). Every additional symptom increased the odds of incomplete adherence by 12% (OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.1–1.2). Female participants and participants initiated on a regimen containing stavudine were more likely to report greater numbers of symptoms. Conclusions Symptoms were a common reason for missing ART, together with simply forgetting and food insecurity. A combination of ART regimens with fewer side effects, use of mobile phone text message reminders, and integration of food supplementation and livelihood pro grammes into HIV programmes, have the potential to decrease missed ART and hence to improve adherence and the outcomes of ART programmes.

Source: UG
Reasons for the utilization of the services of traditional birth attendants during childbirth: A qualitative study in Northern Ghana

Background: Skilled delivery reduces maternal and neonatal mortality. Ghana has put in place measures to reduce geographical and financial access to skilled delivery. Despite this, about 30% of deliveries still occur either at home or are conducted by traditional birth attendants. We, therefore, conducted this study to explore the reasons for the utilization of the services of traditional birth attendants despite the availability of health facilities. Method: Using a phenomenology study design, we selected 31 women who delivered at facilities of four traditional birth attendants in the Northern region of Ghana. Purposive sampling was used to recruit only women who were resident at a place with a health facility for an in-depth interview. The interviews were recorded and transcribed into Microsoft word document. The transcripts were imported into NVivo 12 for thematic analyses. Results: The study found that quality of care was the main driver for traditional birth attendant delivery services. Poor attitude of midwives, maltreatment, and fear of caesarean section were barriers to skilled delivery. Community norms dictate that womanhood is linked to vaginal delivery and women who deliver through caesarean section do not receive the same level of respect. Traditional birth attendants were believed to be more experienced and understand the psychosocial needs of women during childbirth, unlike younger midwives. Furthermore, the inability of women to procure all items required for delivery at biomedical facilities emerged as push factors for traditional birth attendant delivery services. Preference for squatting position during childbirth and social support provided to mothers by traditional birth attendants are also an essential consideration for the use of their services. Conclusion: The study concludes that health managers should go beyond reducing financial and geographical access to improving quality of care and the birth experience of women. These are necessary to complement the efforts at increasing the availability of health facilities and free delivery services.

Source: UG
Recalibration of the limiting antigen avidity EIA to determine mean duration of recent infection in divergent HIV-1 subtypes

Most research activities involve the use of molecular methods such as regular PCR (PCR), quantitative PCR (Q-PCR), genomic sequence and analysis using different software, genetic engineering, probe hybridization techniques, biological and molecular cloning, evaluation of immune markers for laboratory diagnosis of infections, serological assays involving the use of rapid tests, ELISA-based evaluations and immunofluorescent assay techniques.

Source: UG
Recent Advances in Astragalus membranaceus Anti-Diabetic Research: Pharmacological Effects of Its Phytochemical Constituents

The Clinical Pathology Department conducts research that contributes to intervention strategies and safeguards of public health in Ghana. In view of this the Department carries out research into plant medicine development, drug interactions and regulation, bio-monitoring and prevention of poisoning from environmental toxicants (e.g. mycotoxins specifically aflatoxins and toxic heavy metals). The Department also provides specialized laboratory services in support of public health programmes.

Source: UG
Recent advances in photoinduced catalysis for water splitting and environmental applications

To secure reliable alternative energy sources, the up-conversion of solar energy into storable chemical energy holds promise. This review is organized to highlight recent advances in the fields of solar energy utilization and conversion methods with the aid of various heterogeneous catalysts. Special emphasis has been placed on TiO2 photoanode catalysts, band-gap engineering, TiO2-coupled light-harvesting molecules, and photon-coupled electron transfer via electron transport mediator systems. Furthermore, the coverage of this review extends to the topics of oxygen evolution catalysts, water reduction catalysts, and a system assembly capable of completing the four-electron water-oxidation reaction for efficient photocatalytic water splitting.

Source: UG