ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
In vivo antimalarial activity of stem bark extracts of Plumeria alba against Plasmodium berghei in imprinting control region mice

Background: The need for new antimalarial agents with a transcriptional mode of action but fewer side effects compared with artemisinin-based combination therapy for malaria has been the preoccupation of scientists in areas where malaria is a menace. Stem bark extracts of Plumeria alba, used traditionally for the treatment of malaria in Ghana, were investigated to evaluate their prophylactic and curative antimalarial properties. Methods: The antimalarial properties of P. abla were probed using aqueous (30–300 mg/kg) and dichloromethane/methanol (30–300 mg/kg) extracts of the plant in imprinting control region mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. For the curative test, the extracts were administered to the infected mice 4 days post-infection. In the prophylactic test, the animals were pre-treated with the extracts for 3 days before challenging them with P. berghei infected erythrocytes. Results: The aqueous extract exerted signifcant (P , 0.05–0.001) effects on P. berghei infection, similar to artemether and lumefantrine curatively and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine prophylactically. However, the dichloromethane/methanol extract reduced the parasitemia curatively (P , 0.05–0.01) but not prophylactically. Conclusion: This study provides evidence to support the antimalarial properties of stem bark extract of P. alba in mice

Source: UCC
In vivo antimalarial activity of stem bark extracts of Plumeria alba against Plasmodium berghei in imprinting control region mice

Background: The need for new antimalarial agents with a transcriptional mode of action but fewer side effects compared with artemisinin-based combination therapy for malaria has been the preoccupation of scientists in areas where malaria is a menace. Stem bark extracts of Plumeria alba, used traditionally for the treatment of malaria in Ghana, were investigated to evaluate their prophylactic and curative antimalarial properties. Methods: The antimalarial properties of P. abla were probed using aqueous (30–300 mg/kg) and dichloromethane/methanol (30–300 mg/kg) extracts of the plant in imprinting control region mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. For the curative test, the extracts were administered to the infected mice 4 days post-infection. In the prophylactic test, the animals were pre-treated with the extracts for 3 days before challenging them with P. berghei infected erythrocytes. Results: The aqueous extract exerted significant (P , 0.05–0.001) effects on P. berghei infection, similar to artemether and lumefantrine curatively and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine prophylac- tically. However, the dichloromethane/methanol extract reduced the parasitemia curatively (P , 0.05–0.01) but not prophylactically. Conclusion: This study provides evidence to support the antimalarial properties of stem bark extract of P. alba in mice.

Source: UCC
In vivo antiplasmodial and in vitro antioxidant properties of stem bark extracts of Haematostaphis barteri

Objective: To evaluate the antimalarial and antioxidant properties of stem bark extracts of Haematostaphis barteri (H. barteri). Methods: The prophylactic activity of the plant was performed by dosing mice with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg), aqueous extract (30, 100, 300 mg/kg) and dichloromethane/methanol (D/M) (30, 100, 300 mg/kg) extracts of H. barteri for 3 days. On the 4th day, the mice were inoculated with Plasmodium berghei. The parasite density was estimated for each mouse 72 h post-parasite inoculation. The curative activity of the plant was also performed by inoculating mice with Plasmodium berghei. Three days later, they were treated with artemether-lumefantrine (4 mg/kg), aqueous and D/M extracts of H. barteri stem bark for 5 days. The in vitro antioxidant property of the aqueous extract was determined by using the reducing power, nitric oxide and total antioxidant capacity assays. Results: The aqueous extract exerted signiﬁcant (P < 0.05) curative and prophylactic antimalarial activities. The D/M extract exhibited signiﬁcant curative (P < 0.05) but not prophylactic antiplasmodial effect. The aqueous extract exhibited in vitro antioxidant property with IC50's of (0.930 ± 0.021) mg/mL, (0.800 ± 0.001) mg/mL and (0.22 ± 0.05) mg/mL in the total antioxidant capacity, reducing power and nitric oxide assays. Histo- logical assessment of the liver of aqueous and D/M treated animals did not reveal any sign of toxicity. Conclusions: H. barteri is not toxic which exerted signiﬁcant curative antiplasmodial effects but the prophylactic property was however fraction dependent. The mechanism of the antiplasmodial activity of H. barteri may partly be mediated by its antioxidant property.

Source: UCC
In Vivo Antiplasmodial and in Vitro Antioxidant Properties of Stem Bark Extracts of Haematostaphis Barteri

Objective: To evaluate the antimalarial and antioxidant properties of stem bark extracts of Haematostaphis barteri (H. barteri). Methods: The prophylactic activity of the plant was performed by dosing mice with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg), aqueous extract (30, 100, 300 mg/kg) and dichloromethane/methanol (D/M) (30, 100, 300 mg/kg) extracts of H. barteri for 3 days. On the 4th day, the mice were inoculated with Plasmodium berghei. The parasite density was estimated for each mouse 72 h post-parasite inoculation. The curative activity of the plant was also performed by inoculating mice with Plasmodium berghei. Three days later, they were treated with artemether-lumefantrine (4 mg/kg), aqueous and D/M extracts of H. barteri stembark for 5 days. The in vitro antioxidant property of the aqueous extractwas determined by using the reducing power, nitric oxide and total antioxidant capacity assays. Results: The aqueous extract exerted significant (P < 0.05) curative and prophylactic antimalarial activities. The D/M extract exhibited significant curative (P < 0.05) but not prophylactic antiplasmodial effect. The aqueous extract exhibited in vitro antioxidant property with IC50's of (0.930 ± 0.021) mg/mL, (0.800 ± 0.001) mg/mL and (0.22 ± 0.05) mg/mL in the total antioxidant capacity, reducing power and nitric oxide assays. Histological assessment of the liver of aqueous and D/M treated animals did not reveal any sign of toxicity. Conclusions: H. barteri is not toxic which exerted significant curative antiplasmodial effects but the prophylactic property was however fraction dependent. The mechanism of the antiplasmodial activity of H. barteri may partly be mediated by its antioxidant property.

Source: UCC
In Vivo Antiplasmodial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Analgesic Properties, and Safety Profile of Root Extracts of Haematostaphis barteri Hook F. (Anacardiaceae)

Malaria is an endemic disease globally and the conundrum of drug resistance has led to the search for newer antimalarial agents. The root extract of H. barteri was evaluated for antimalarial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The prophylactic effect of H. barteri on P. berghei was determined by pretreating mice with aqueous root extract of H. barteri (30–300 mg/kg), saline, and 1.2 mg/kg sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine for three days followed by 1 × 106 P. berghei inoculation. Parasite density was measured after 72 h. The curative antimalarial property of the extract was assessed by treating mice with extract, saline, and 1.14 : 6.9 mg/kg Artemether : Lumefantrine four days after 1 × 106 P. berghei inoculation. Selected organs were harvested for toxicity assessment. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of the extract was determined in the carrageenan and thermal tail withdrawal tests, respectively. The extract significantly reduced the parasite density in the prophylactic but not the curative study. The anti- inflammatory and analgesic activities of the extract were significant (𝑃 < 0.05) only at the highest doses employed. Regeneration of hepatocytes was also evident in the extract treated groups. The extract has prophylactic but not curative activity on P. berghei- induced malaria. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic property of the extract occurred at the highest doses used.

Source: UCC
In Vivo Antiplasmodial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Analgesic Properties, and Safety Profile of Root Extracts of Haematostaphis barteri Hook F. (Anacardiaceae)

Malaria is an endemic disease globally and the conundrum of drug resistance has led to the search for newer antimalarial agents. The root extract of H. barteri was evaluated for antimalarial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties.The prophylactic effect of H. barteri on P. berghei was determined by pretreating mice with aqueous root extract of H. barteri (30–300mg/kg), saline, and 1.2mg/kg sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine for three days followed by 1 × 106 P. berghei inoculation. Parasite density was measured after 72 h. The curative antimalarial property of the extract was assessed by treating mice with extract, saline, and 1.14 : 6.9mg/kg Artemether : Lumefantrine four days after 1 × 106 P. berghei inoculation. Selected organs were harvested for toxicity assessment. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of the extract was determined in the carrageenan and thermal tail withdrawal tests, respectively. The extract significantly reduced the parasite density in the prophylactic but not the curative study. The antiinflammatory and analgesic activities of the extract were significant (𝑃 < 0.05) only at the highest doses employed. Regeneration of hepatocytes was also evident in the extract treated groups.The extract has prophylactic but not curative activity on P. bergheiinduced malaria.The anti-inflammatory and analgesic property of the extract occurred at the highest doses used.

Source: UCC
In vivo efficacy of top five surveyed Ghanaian herbal anti-malarial products

Background: Anti malarial herbal preparations (HPs) continue to enjoy high patronage in Ghana despite reports that the artemisinin based combination therapy (ACT), the recommended first choice for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in the country, remains efficacious. A major issue with the use of these preparations is inadequate or unreliable data on their efficacy and quality. An assessment of the potency and quality of the most popular commercial anti malarial HPs in Ghana was, therefore, carried out. The outcome of this investigation is herein discussed preceded by a short literature review of herbal medicines in Ghana. Methods: Using a questionnaire survey of 344 individuals in parts of Ghana, five of the most frequently used HPs were identified and selected for test of their efficacy and quality. The effect of the selected compounds on Plasmodium berghei in vivo was assessed using standard methods. Results: All five tested HPs (HP A, HP B, HP C, HP D and HP E) showed chemo suppressive activity against P. berghei in vivo. However the degree of parasites inhibition is significantly lower compared to the WHO recommended artemether–lumefantrine combination (p < 0.05, 99.9% chemo-suppression/activity, 28 days survival). Using the Solo mon Saker’s Test, two of the preparations were found to contain chloroquine or compounds with chemical properties like that of chloroquine. Conclusion: Popular anti malarial HPs used in southern Ghana were found to have chemo suppressive properties. Intentional addition of chloroquine or SCs to these preparations in order to enhance their effectiveness has serious public health concerns as it may induce cross resistance to amodiaquine, one of the partner drugs in the recom mended ACT for use in Ghana.

Source: UCC
In Vivo Efficacy of Top Five Surveyed Ghanaian Herbal Anti‑Malarial Products

Background: Anti-malarial herbal preparations (HPs) continue to enjoy high patronage in Ghana despite reports that the artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), the recommended first choice for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in the country, remains efficacious. A major issue with the use of these preparations is inadequate or unreliable data on their efficacy and quality. An assessment of the potency and quality of the most popular commercial anti-malarial HPs in Ghana was, therefore, carried out. The outcome of this investigation is herein discussed preceded by a short literature review of herbal medicines in Ghana. Methods: Using a questionnaire survey of 344 individuals in parts of Ghana, five of the most frequently used HPs were identified and selected for test of their efficacy and quality. The effect of the selected compounds on Plasmodium berghei in vivo was assessed using standard methods. Results: All five tested HPs (HP-A, HP-B, HP-C, HP-D and HP-E) showed chemo-suppressive activity against P. berghei in vivo. However the degree of parasites inhibition is significantly lower compared to the WHO-recommended artemether–lumefantrine combination (p < 0.05, 99.9% chemosuppression/activity, 28 days survival). Using the Solomon Saker’s Test, two of the preparations were found to contain chloroquine or compounds with chemical properties like that of chloroquine. Conclusion: Popular anti-malarial HPs used in southern Ghana were found to have chemo-suppressive properties. Intentional addition of chloroquine or SCs to these preparations in order to enhance their effectiveness has serious public health concerns as it may induce cross resistance to amodiaquine, one of the partner drugs in the recommended ACT for use in Ghana.

Source: UCC
In vivo efficacy of top five surveyed Ghanaian herbal anti‑malarial products

Background: Anti-malarial herbal preparations (HPs) continue to enjoy high patronage in Ghana despite reports that the artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), the recommended first choice for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in the country, remains efficacious. A major issue with the use of these preparations is inadequate or unreli‑ able data on their efficacy and quality. An assessment of the potency and quality of the most popular commercial anti-malarial HPs in Ghana was, therefore, carried out. The outcome of this investigation is herein discussed preceded by a short literature review of herbal medicines in Ghana. Methods: Using a questionnaire survey of 344 individuals in parts of Ghana, five of the most frequently used HPs were identified and selected for test of their efficacy and quality. The effect of the selected compounds on Plasmo- dium berghei in vivo was assessed using standard methods. Results: All five tested HPs (HP-A, HP-B, HP-C, HP-D and HP-E) showed chemo-suppressive activity against P. berghei in vivo. However the degree of parasites inhibition is significantly lower compared to the WHO-recommended artemether–lumefantrine combination (p < 0.05, 99.9% chemosuppression/activity, 28 days survival). Using the Solo‑ mon Saker’s Test, two of the preparations were found to contain chloroquine or compounds with chemical properties like that of chloroquine. Conclusion: Popular anti-malarial HPs used in southern Ghana were found to have chemo-suppressive properties. Intentional addition of chloroquine or SCs to these preparations in order to enhance their effectiveness has serious public health concerns as it may induce cross resistance to amodiaquine, one of the partner drugs in the recom‑ mended ACT for use in Ghana.

Source: UCC
In vivo transit dosimetry with electronic portal imaging devices (epid) for external beam cancer treatments

According to the Radiotherapy Risk Profile report by the World Health Organization (WHO), the major causes of severe radiotherapy incidents are due to human errors. The real danger is when the error in administration goes undetected during cancer treatments. This may lead to radiation damage to normal tissues, and may be lethal to the patient. The aim of this work was to develop a transit dosimetry calculation model using C++ and vb.net codes for verifying patient radiation doses using amorphous silicon electronic portal imaging devices (aSi EPID), which could be fast, simple and accurate to be employed in routine clinical work. The model was tested with heterogeneous phantom by comparing the calculations from the developed model with measurements from thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs). The transit dosimetry model developed in this study offers satisfying results for square defined fields in real-time treatment of a tissue–mimicking phantom (anthropomorphic phantom). A comparison of absorbed dose measurements between the developed model and TLDs indicate a maximum and a minimum deviations of 3.93% and 1.02% respectively. The calculated absorbed doses from the developed model was therefore in concurrence with TLD measurements within ±5%, and was within the prescribed International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reference level. The model presented therefore satisfied the accuracy requirements for clinical use. The model may therefore be used for in vivo dosimetry of radiation therapy

Source: UCC
In vivoassessment of the toxic potential of Dissotis rotundifoliawhole plant extract in Sprague–Dawley rats

Objective:To assess the toxic potential of Dissotis rotundifolia (D. rotundifolia) whole plant extract in Spraque–Dawley rats within a 2-week period of administration. Methods: Methanolic extract of D. rotundifolia was administered orally once daily at dose levels of 0, 100, 300 and 1 000 mg/kg body weight for 14 days. Toxicity was assessed using mortality, clinical signs, body and organ weights, hematological indices, serum chemistry parameters and histopathological analyses. Results: There were no treatment-related mortalities or differences in clinical signs, hematology and serum biochemistry. This was confirmed by micrographs obtained from histopathological analysis. Conclusions: The results obtained from the sub-acute toxicological assessment of D. rotundifolia extract suggest that the extract is non-toxic at doses up to 1 000 mg/kg/day administered for a period of 14 days

Source: UCC
In-service Mathematics Teachers’ Understanding and Teaching of Trigonometry: Implication for Professional Development

The study develops insight into In-Service Mathematics Teachers’ (ISMTs’) understanding and teaching of trigonometry concepts in SHS. Mixed method was used. Population was primarily ISMTs. A sample size of 220 ISMTs were used. Stratified sampling was used in selecting the schools and ISMTs. Data collection was done with questionnaire. The study revealed that knowledge of ISMTs on trigonometry content was not encouraging. The few who answered the questions performed better on Elective Mathematics Trigonometry questions. For identification of errors from hypothesized student’s solutions, majority did not find anything wrong with the solutions presented. On causes of the errors, they mainly attributed it to lack of understanding of either a procedure, or concept but not both. On correcting the errors and helping students understand the concepts, majority displayed insufficient knowledge of content and students. Regarding self-efficacy, ISMTs were much more confident to teach Core Mathematics related items compared to Elective, and identified some items they have least and most confidence in teaching, with reasons. On challenges, the major ones were; lack of confidence, inadequate instructional resources, and difficulty and problem of teaching trigonometry. On teacher professional development needs, support is needed to teach trigonometry in: teacher self-improvement in trigonometric content and pedagogy; preparation and utilization of teaching materials; and use of ICT and the others. It is recommended that advisory services, school heads and principals should organize and encourage teachers to attend professional development courses to refresh their trigonometry contents and become abreast with new developments.

Source: UCC
In-Service Teachers‘ Knowledge Of Fraction Magnitude: A Case Of Mathematics Teachers In The Tamale Metropolis

The premise of this research was that teachers‘ knowledge significantly influences students‘ mathematical achievement, particularly in their understanding of fractions. The aim was to explore if teachers‘ conceptual deficiencies in this area could explain students struggle with fractions, especially in understanding their magnitudes. The study employed an integrated theory of numerical development which posits that a teacher‘s ability to place a specific fraction on a number line reflects a comprehensive understanding of fraction magnitude. It adopted a cross-sectional survey design, involving a sample of 134 mathematics teachers from public junior high schools. Descriptive statistics revealed that mathematics teachers possessed an average level of knowledge concerning the magnitude of fractions. Furthermore, inferential statistics indicated a positive correlation between teachers‘ years of teaching experience and their knowledge of fraction magnitude. Moreover, the study discovered a significant difference in the fraction magnitude knowledge of in-service teachers and the specific classes they teach mathematics. In light of the findings, the study recommends that teacher training institutions improve on mathematical courses that incorporate the content and pedagogical elements of fractions. Additionally, stakeholders in education are encouraged to frequently organise periodic in-service training programmes, specifically targeting mathematics teachers, with the aim of enhancing their understanding of fraction magnitude and overall proficiency in teaching the subject.

Source: UCC
In-service teachers’ use of ICT in teaching mathematics in Ghana. A case study in the Cape Coast metropolis.

This study was set out to examine the barriers to ICT integration into Mathematics teaching and learning in selected Senior High Schools in the Central Region of Ghana. Specifically, the study aimed to examine the effects of internal barriers (constructive teaching beliefs, teaching experience, attitudes toward computer and technology competence) and external barriers (access to technology use, level of training in the use of technology, time adequacy, as well as, the culture of the teacher’s institution) in predicting inservice teachers’ usage of ICT in the teaching and learning of Mathematics. The study employed the descriptive survey design to answer the research questions of the study. Five-point Likert scale questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Both purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to select 185 in-service teachers for the study. The multiple regression analysis was used to estimate the factors influencing ICT integration. The study revealed that in-service teachers’ ICT integration in the teaching of Mathematics was barely low. Both internal and external factors had significant effects on ICT integration; but the external factors had stronger predictability of ICT integration than the internal factors. The study recommended that the heads of departments should organize regular ICT training towards increasing teachers’ competencies and decreasing their anxiety to enhance willingness to integrate ICT in teaching and learning of Mathematics.

Source: UCC