ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Increased pfmdr1 gene copy number and the decline in pfcrt and pfmdr1 resistance alleles in Ghanaian Plasmodium falciparum isolates after the change of anti-malarial drug treatment policy

Abstract Background With the introduction of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) in 2005, monitoring of anti-malarial drug efficacy, which includes the use of molecular tools to detect known genetic markers of parasite resistance, is important for first-hand information on the changes in parasite susceptibility to drugs in Ghana. This study investigated the Plasmodium falciparum multidrug resistance gene (pfmdr1) copy number, mutations and the chloroquine resistance transporter gene (pfcrt) mutations in Ghanaian isolates collected in seven years to detect the trends in prevalence of mutations. Methods Archived filter paper blood blots collected from children aged below five years with uncomplicated malaria in 2003&#8211;2010 at sentinel sites were used. Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), 756 samples were assessed for pfmdr1 gene copy number. PCR and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) were used to detect alleles of pfmdr1 86 in 1,102 samples, pfmdr1 184, 1034, 1042 and 1246 in 832 samples and pfcrt 76 in 1,063 samples. Merozoite surface protein 2 (msp2) genotyping was done to select monoclonal infections for copy number analysis. Results The percentage of isolates with increased pfmdr1 copy number were 4, 27, 9, and 18% for 2003&#8211;04, 2005&#8211;06, 2007&#8211;08 and 2010, respectively. Significant increasing trends for prevalence of pfmdr1 N86 (&#215;2&#8201;=&#8201;96.31, p &lt;0.001) and pfcrt K76 (&#215;2 = 64.50, p &lt;0.001) and decreasing trends in pfmdr1 Y86 (&#215;2&#8201;=&#8201;38.52, p &lt;0.001) and pfcrt T76 (&#215;2&#8201;=&#8201;43.49, p &lt;0.001) were observed from 2003&#8211;2010. The pfmdr1 F184 and Y184 prevalence showed an increasing and decreasing trends respectively but were not significant (&#215;2&#8201;=&#8201;7.39,p=0.060; &#215;2&#8201;=&#8201;7.49, p&#8201;=&#8201;0.057 respectively). The pfmdr1 N86-F184-D1246 haplotype, which is alleged to be selected by artemether-lumefantrine showed a significant increasing trend (&#215;2&#8201;=&#8201;20.75, p &lt;&#8201;0.001). Conclusion Increased pfmdr1 gene copy number was observed in the isolates analysed and this finding has implications for the use of ACT in the country although no resistance has been reported. The decreasing trend in the prevalence of chloroquine resistance markers after change of treatment policy presents the possibility for future introduction of chloroquine as prophylaxis for malaria risk groups such as children and pregnant women in Ghana.

Source: UG
Increased ShTAL1 IgE responses post- Praziquantel treatment may be associated with a reduced risk to re-infection in a Ghanaian S. haematobium-endemic community

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
Increasing demand for transnational education in Ghana: A structural equation analysis of the causation

Transnational Education (TNE) has often been used as a measure to support the economic sustainability of the institution of higher learning involved. But in recent times, TNE has become one of the important avenues for Higher Education Institutions (HEI) to improve their International Students Portfolios without bringing the students to the HEI host-country. But the bigger question is on the demand side of transnational education; what is pushing students in developing countries to enroll in Transnational Education (TNE) Programmes, modules or academic units? This research paper used the structural equation model to analyse a surveyed sample data drawn from a TNE active students’ population of 2720 in Ghana; representing five universities in Ghana which had either an articulation or franchise TNE agreements with one or more of UK universities. The results showed a causation of both signaling and human capital development factors; however, a much stronger path relationship along the TNE Diploma acquisition, human capital development and high earnings. The research posits that the value of the TNE Diplomas in Ghana is in its ability to deliver the requisite knowledge, ability and skills to its graduates. Again, the results showed that the inherent “signals” of good education of which TNE arrangements provides, adds to its overall appeal.

Source: UG
Increasing Income of Ghanaian Cocoa Farmers: Is Introduction of Fine Flavour Cocoa a Viable Alternative

Consumers’ taste and preference for differentiated cocoa based on darkness and flavour quality has been rising over the years. Added value of such specialty cocoa is expressed by consumers’ willingness to pay more than the standard commodity price for the attributes and associations such as augmented health benefits that differentiate the product. Conventional cocoa production systems often planted with local landraces and to some extent hybrids often have low yields that cannot match farmers’ investment decisions. An ex ante analysis of fine flavour cocoa was investigated for Ghana vis-à-vis existing farming conditions, using economic decision criteria. Fine flavour cocoa is differentiated on the basis of clonal planting material as opposed to regular pods and by its superior flavour qualities at during post-harvest handling. Results of hypothetical fine flavour systems are compared with business-as-usual systems with high input fine flavour system emerging as clear winner in terms of profitability. Sensitivity analysis shows that increasing percentage of producer price with fertiliser subsidies dramatically improves farmers’ income.

Source: UG
Increasing postpartum family planning uptake through group antenatal care: a longitudinal prospective cohort design

Background Despite significant improvements, postpartum family planning uptake remains low for women in sub-Saharan Africa. Transmitting family planning education in a comprehensible way during antenatal care (ANC) has the potential for long-term positive impact on contraceptive use. We followed women for one-year postpartum to examine the uptake and continuation of family planning following enrollment in group versus individual ANC. Methods A longitudinal, prospective cohort design was used. Two hundred forty women were assigned to group ANC (n = 120) or standard, individual care (n = 120) at their first ANC visit. Principal outcome measures included intent to use family planning immediately postpartum and use of a modern family planning method at one-year postpartum. Additionally, data were collected on intended and actual length of exclusive breastfeeding at one-year postpartum. Pearson chi-square tests were used to test for statistically significant differences between group and individual ANC groups. Odds ratios and adjusted odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression. Results Women who participated in group ANC were more likely to use modern and non-modern contraception than those in individual care (59.1% vs. 19%, p < .001). This relationship improved when controlled for intention, age, religion, gravida, and education (AOR = 6.690, 95% CI: 2.724, 16,420). Women who participated in group ANC had higher odds of using a modern family planning method than those in individual care (AOR = 8.063, p < .001). Those who participated in group ANC were more likely to exclusively breastfeed for more than 6 months than those in individual care (75.5% vs. 50%, p < .001). This relationship remained statistically significant when adjusted for age, religion, gravida, and education (AOR = 3.796, 95% CI: 1.558, 9.247). Conclusions Group ANC has the potential to be an effective model for improving the uptake and continuation of post-partum family planning up to one-year. Antenatal care presents a unique opportunity to influence the adoption of postpartum family planning. This is the first study to examine the impact of group ANC on family planning intent and use in a low-resource setting. Group ANC holds the potential to increase postpartum family planning uptake and long-term continuation.

Source: UG
Increasing rice productivity in Ghana: Do savings with rural and community banks matter?

Purpose – This paper analysed the motives behind farmers’ savings with Rural and Community Banks (RCBs) and the effect of these savings on rice yield in the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta region of Ghana. Design/methodology/approach – A multi-stage sampling approach was used to draw a random sample of 222 rice farmers, and a structured questionnaire was employed to collect cross-sectional data. A Likert scale was used to rank the motive behind farmers’ savings while the endogenous switching regression model was used to estimate the effect of savings on rice yield. Findings – The results of the study showed that most farmers mobilise savings to enhance farm investment which is critical to increasing rice productivity. Improved labour and fertiliser use had a positive influence on rice yield, while farm size had an inverse relation with rice yield. Further, the findings show that savings with RCBs help mobilise the necessary finance to enhance rice productivity. In terms of the treatment effect of savings, the results indicate that farmers who patronise saving products of RCBs recorded a statistically significant average yield of 1.41 Mt/ha more than those not patronising saving products from any bank. Practical implications – While the literature on agricultural finance focuses largely on credit, this study demonstrates that savings hold significant benefits for the development of agriculture through productivity gains. The importance of this demonstration is further shown by the fact that credit access depends on the ability to save in most developing countries. Social implications – There is a need to educate farmers about the essence of patronising formal savings products. Originality/value – This study represents the first attempt at linking farmers’ savings to agricultural productivity using an econometric methodology in Ghana. The study serves as a foundation paper and for that matter will serve as a guide to future research on savings mobilisation and agricultural productivity nexus.

Source: UG
Increasing the uptake of prevention of mother to-child transmission of HIV services in a resource-limited setting

Background: As in other resource limited settings, the Ministry of Health in Zambia is challenged to make affordable and acceptable PMTCT interventions accessible and available. With a 14.3% HIV prevalence, the MOH estimates over one million people are HIV positive in Zambia. Approximately 500,000 children are born annually in Zambia and 40,000 acquire the infection vertically each year if no intervention is offered. This study sought to review uptake of prevention of mother-to-child (PMTCT) services in a resource-limited setting following the introduction of context-specific interventions. Methods: Interventions to improve PMTCT uptake were introduced into 38 sites providing PMTCT services in Zambia in July 2005. Baseline and follow up service data were collected on a monthly basis through September 2008. Data was checked for internal and external consistency using logic built into databases used for data management. Data audits were conducted to determine accuracy and reliability. Trends were analyzed pre- and post- intervention. Results: Uptake among pregnant women increased across the 13 quarters (39 months) of observation, particularly in the case of acceptance of counseling and HIV testing from 45% to 90% (p value = 0.00) in the first year and 99% by year 3 (p value = 0.00). Receipt of complete course of antiretroviral (ARV) prophylaxis increased from 29% to 66% (p = 0.00) in the first year and 97% by year 3 (p value = 0.00). There was also significant improvement in the percentage of HIV positive pregnant women referred for clinical care. Conclusions: Uptake of PMTCT services in resource-limited settings can be improved by utilizing innovative alternatives to mitigate the effects of human resource shortage such as by providing technical assistance and mentorship beyond regular training courses, integrating PMTCT services into existing maternal and child health structures, addressing information gaps, mobilizing traditional and opinion leaders and building strong relationships with the government. These health system based approaches provide a sustainable improvement in the capacity and uptake of services.

Source: UG
The Increasing Threat of Terrorism to West and Central Africa: The Case of Boko Haram Insurgency in Nigeria

Terrorism has gained ground in international discourse of issues currently impeding the progress and development of states. Although not a recent phenomenon, terrorism is a growing menace which cannot be ignored. The environmental, socio-economic, psychological and physical impacts of terrorism on people and governments are highly significant and there is therefore the need to understand and address this phenomenon. This research focuses the increasing threat of terrorism to West and Central Africa using Boko Harm in Nigeria for analysis. The study conducted is based on information collected from both primary and secondary sources. The research methodology employed in analysing data is the qualitative method. Interviews were conducted to gauge stakeholders’ opinion of this phenomenon and its associated threats. Findings from the study indicates that terrorism in West and Central Africa is due to the growing influence Salafist ideology as well as structural weaknesses such as corruption, high concentration of youth unemployment, porous borders, ethnic and religious divisions that are prevalent in West and Central Africa. The research also examined the factors that have created an enabling environment in Nigeria for Boko Haram to thrive and commit mass atrocities against the Nigerian citizenry, government forces and spread their influences to neighbouring countries such as Niger, Cameroon and Chad. The Boko Haram threat remains a major blight on the progress and growth of the Nigerian society. High rates of poverty is very prevalent in the Nigerian society particularly the Northern section of Nigeria. This has made recruitment of persons caught in the vicious cycle of poverty by Boko Haram very easy. The study recommends that the Nigerian government implements schemes geared towards poverty alleviation. These includes creating employment opportunities with better pay systems, building the capacity of entrepreneurs through funding, and a revitalization of the educational system to incorporate STEM fields which will enable the youth gain employable skills thereby bridging the unemployment gap in the Nigerian society. There is also the need for sensitivity when it comes to cultural differences and values. Government institutions and the media must respect and acknowledge the plurality of the cultural environment in Nigeria and the entire Sahel Region.

Source: UG
Indefiniteness Marking and Akan bi

This paper examines the communicative role of the Akan (Kwa, Niger-Congo) existential quantifier bi both as a determiner and as a pronominal. In aiding the addressee to arrive at the intended interpretation of the utterance in which it occurs, determiner bí provides the procedural information that the addressee should construe bí as an existential quantifier that quantifies over tokens belonging to the type of entity expressed by the preceding nominal. In resolving the referent of pronominal bì, the addressee construes bì as an existential quantifier that quantifies over tokens belonging to the type of entity the antecedent expresses. When the definiteness marker no (the) precedes bí in a single noun phrase, the intended referent of that noun phrase is ‘a part, or member, of the whole’ or ‘one of this sort’. On the other hand, when bí follows no the noun phrase is to be understood as an echoic metarepresentation of an earlier mentioned noun phrase. Thus the syntactic configuration and the nature of the rightmost marker define the sequence as grammatically definite or not.

Source: UG
Indentifying farmers’ preferences and constraints to maize production in two agro-ecological zones in Burkina Faso

Background The low adoption of technologies, developed by research institutions, by farmers substantiates the need for client orientation in research and development. Hence, to bridge the gap between breeders and farmers and to ensure that new varieties fit farmers’ preferences and suit their socioeconomic situations, Participatory Rural Appraisals (PRA) were undertaken in two agro-ecological zones (North-Sudan and South-Sudan) to determine maize varieties farmers grow, farmers’ preferences in choice of the varieties and to evaluate farmers’ perceptions of constraints to maize production. Results Farmers grow both local and improved varieties to meet their multiple objectives in maize farming. Nearly 63 % of the farmers grow local maize varieties whilst about 37 % grow improved varieties. All the different varieties are grown in both northern and southern zones but, in general, early maturing maize varieties are grown in northern zones while late maturing maize varieties are planted in southern zones. This study revealed that farmers preferred varieties that carry traits like high yield potential, early maturity, tolerance to drought, Striga and low soil fertility in all districts. Maize production in the two zones is constrained by a variety of related factors, the extent of contribution of each factor varies across the districts. The main constraints to maize production are poor cash flow, inadequate farm tools, poor extension service, drought and pests. Striga is considered as the most important pest followed by termites. Conclusions Few studies have been conducted on models on Burkina Faso agriculture and technology adoption. This study identified agro-ecological zones and others key factors in adoption decision of new maize variety. It is expected that future studies will include these factors as some of the explanatory variables in adoption models.

Source: UG
The Independence of Central Banks, Political Institutional Quality and Financial Sector Development in Africa

Central Bank Independence (CBI) as a mechanism for achieving lower inflation and effective regulation and supervision of the financial sector should promote financial sector development. Though there is not much difference in CBI legal provisions, it seems to be more effective in developed countries than in African countries. There are suggestions that this could be due to differences in political institutional quality. Using panel data from 1970 to 2012, we find that CBI does not promote financial development in Africa. The impact of CBI is dependent on the level of development of a country. CBI promotes financial development more in countries with strong political institutions

Source: UG
Independent north-south child migration as a parental investment in Northern Ghana

North-south independent child migration flows in Ghana have gained increasing political and research interest. Parents and adult relations actively participate in the decision of their children to migrate. In view of this, this study uses a 2005 survey of 451 independent child migrants in Accra and Kumasi to assess the extent to which this relatively new wave of migration constitutes some kind of an economic investment by parents against poverty. A major finding of the study is that although parents, through remittances by their children, may meet their objective of sending their children as migrants to southern communities, in the long run, these gains may be eroded because of diverse social, economic, and reproductive health risks the children may be exposed to. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Source: UG
Index to the Legon Observer Volumes Two through Nine, 1967-1974

The Legon Observer was published from July 1966 until July 1974 When it ceased publication. (A speciai statement was issued as explanation of the cessation in October 1974.) During this period, the journal was the leading organ of social, economic and political commentary in Ghana. In 1971. The Legon Society on National Affairs published an index to volume one. The present index covers the contents of volumes two to nine. And thus completes the indexing of all the issues of Legon Observer ever published. To ensure uniformity the arrangement of the earlier index has been followed as far as possible. Hare subject headings and form headings have been added, naturally. Due to the volume of material handled in the current index. For a complete list of subject headings

Source: UG
Index to the Legon Observer Volumes Two through Nine, 1967-1974

The Legon Observer was published from July 1966 until July 1974 when it ceased publication. (A special statement was issued as explanation of the cessation in October 1974.) During this period, the journal was the leading organ of social, economic and political commentary in Ghana. In 1971, The Legon Society on National Affairs published an index to volume one. The present index covers the contents of volumes two to nine, and thus completes the indexing of all the issues of Legon Observer ever published. To ensure uniformity the arrangement of the earlier index has been followed as far as possible. More subject headings and form headings have been added, naturally, due to the volume of material handled in the current index.

Source: UG
Index to the Legon Observer Volumes Two through Nine, 1967-1974

The Legon Observer was published from July 1966 until July 1974 when it ceased publication . (A special statement was issued as explanation of the cessation in October 1974.) During this period, the journal was the leading organ of social, economic and political commentary in Ghana. In 1971, The Legon Society on National Affairs published an index to volume one. The present index covers the contents of volumes two to nine, and thus completes the indexing of all the issues of Legan Observer ever published. To ensure uniformity the arrangement of the earlier index has been followed as far as possible . Hore subject headings and form headings have been added

Source: UG
Index to the Legon Observer Volumes Two through Nine, 1967-1974

The Legon Observer was published from July 1966 until July 1974 when it ceased publication . (A special statement was issued as explanation of the cessation in October 1974 . ) During this period, the journal was the leading organ of social, economic and political commentary in Ghana. In 1971, The Legon Society on National Affairs published an index to volume one . The present index covers the contents of volumes two to nine, and thus completes the indexing of all the issues of Legon Observer ever published . To ensure uniformity the arrangement of the earlier index has been followed as far as possible. Hare subject headings and form headings have been added , naturally , due to the volume of material handled in the current index

Source: UG