320 results on '"Doku, P"'
Search Results
2. Distribution of the elemental regression weights with t-distributed co-variate measurement errors
- Author
-
Seidu, I., Nyarko, E., Iddi, S., Ranganai, E., and Doku-Amponsah, K.
- Subjects
Mathematics - Statistics Theory ,Statistics - Methodology ,60E05, 62E17, 62H15 - Abstract
In this article, a heuristic approach is used to determined the best approximate distribution of $\dfrac{Y_1}{Y_1 + Y_2}$, given that $Y_1,Y_2$ are independent, and each of $Y_1$ and $Y$ is distributed as the $\mathcal{F}$-distribution with common denominator degrees of freedom. The proposed approximate distribution is subject to graphical comparisons and distributional tests. The proposed distribution is used to derive the distribution of the elemental regression weight $\omega_E$, where $E$ is the elemental regression set., Comment: 25 pages
- Published
- 2023
3. African American Students' Perceptions of Secondary School Career and Technical Education: Qualitative Study
- Author
-
Yisehak Doku Samage
- Abstract
Career and technical education (CTE) programs provide directives to prepare secondary students with the necessary skills and knowledge for their careers and college education. However, CTE programs could have more academic proficiency and employable skills to effectively prepare African American secondary students. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of African American students actively engaged in CTE programs and examined how these experiences influenced their decision-making regarding their CTE studies. Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory guided the research problem assessment and purpose in answering this study question. Qualitative phenomenology was used to collect data from 50 online survey respondents and 10 individuals interviewed from September 10 to December 10, 2023. The participants were limited to African American students who were 18 years and older, currently in secondary and post-secondary schools, and residing in the northeastern region of the United States. Thematic content data analysis using NVivo software unveiled five significant themes: academic experiences, social experiences, challenges, perceptions and dissatisfaction, and suggestions. The primary findings of this study are African American students' positive perception of secondary CTE programs and students' dissatisfaction with their CTE studies. The students' positive perceptions of CTE programs and the identified problems will fill a gap in current research literature and knowledge of secondary school CTE programs. CTE experts and educators can use this study's findings to intervene in identified problems to enhance African American students' engagement and enrollment across all CTE programs in the United States. To complement this qualitative study's limitations, a comprehensive qualitative study of secondary schools' all-inclusive CTE students, educators, and leadership and mixed methods longitudinal study of secondary CTE students' course engagement is recommended for future research. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
- Published
- 2024
4. ‘The national health insurance policy provides little to no benefit to young persons living with type 1 diabetes (T1D)’: a qualitative study of T1D management cost-burden in Southern Ghana
- Author
-
Owusu, Bernard Afriyie, Barnes, Nana Ama, and Doku, David Teye
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Health risk assessment of surface water resources in the Nandom Municipality of Ghana
- Author
-
Bekoe, Emmanuel Martin Obeng, Quarcoo, Gerard, Dankwa, Paul, Naangmenyele, Zita, Adu-Boakye, Millicent, Mensah, Emmanuel Tetteh-Doku, and Kumi, Michael
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
6. Living with type 1 diabetes and schooling among young people in Ghana: a truism of health selection, inadequate support, or artefactual explanation of educational inequalities?
- Author
-
Owusu, Bernard Afriyie and Doku, David Teye
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
7. Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine uptake: evidence from a vulnerable global South setting
- Author
-
Amoah, John Oti, Abraham, Susanna Aba, Adongo, Charles Atanga, Sekimpi, Deogratias Kaheeru, Adukpo, David Cudjoe, Obiri-Yeboah, Dorcas, and Doku, David Teye
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
8. Literacy-related factors and knowledge of patient rights charter: evidence from nurses in selected hospitals in Ghana
- Author
-
Atta-Doku, John Foster, Abekah-Nkrumah, Gordon, Nkrumah, Jacqueline, and Adoma, Prince Owusu
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
9. Towards an integrated type 1 diabetes management in low-resource settings: barriers faced by patients and their caregivers in healthcare facilities in Ghana
- Author
-
Owusu, Bernard Afriyie and Doku, David Teye
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
10. Heavy Metal Contamination in Rhizosphere of Plants at a Decommissioned Gold Mine Tailings Dam
- Author
-
Doku, Emmanuel Tetteh and Belford, Ebenezer J. D.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
11. Multiple Conceptual Model Approach for Assessing Groundwater Resources Sustainability Under Multiple Stresses
- Author
-
Yidana, Sandow Mark, Dzikunoo, Elikplim Abla, Tetteh, Jacob Doku, and Mejida, Richard Adam
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
12. Occurrence and Environmental Risk Assessment of Antibiotics in Water and Sediment from Fish Farms in the Lower Volta Lake of Ghana
- Author
-
Magna, Emmanuel Kaboja, Tornyie, Ferdinand, Ofosu-Koranteng, Francis, Mensah, Emmanuel Tetteh-Doku, Larbi, Lloyd, and Mbage, Bawa
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
13. Living with type 1 diabetes and schooling among young people in Ghana: a truism of health selection, inadequate support, or artefactual explanation of educational inequalities?
- Author
-
Bernard Afriyie Owusu and David Teye Doku
- Subjects
Type 1 diabetes mellitus ,Youth ,Social support ,Health inequalities ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Introduction Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is mostly diagnosed among young people. Despite the evidence that T1DM is disruptive, and affects individuals’ health and cognitive ability, there is dearth of knowledge on the impact of T1DM on schooling in LMICs including Ghana. In this research, we explored the impact of T1DM on the schooling of young people living with the disease, and discussed the results within health selection, social support, and artefactual perspectives of inequality. Methods Data were extracted from a qualitative project on T1DM lived experiences in southern Ghana. The study participants were young persons living with T1DM (n = 28) and their caregivers (n = 12). They were purposively recruited to participate in the study using maximum variation and snowball sampling techniques and interviewed in their support group centres, homes, or healthcare facilities using semi-structured interview guides. A computer-assisted qualitative data analysis was performed using QSR NVivo 14 software, and the results were categorised into themes. Results Three themes were identified from the transcripts. These themes were school and classroom attendance, choice of school, and school/academic performance. T1DM was a major reason for patients’ limited contact hours with teachers, school drop-out, preference for day schools rather than boarding, opting for vocational training instead of continuation of formal education, limited concentration at school, and delayed educational progression. Conclusion T1DM impacted the schooling of young people living with the disease. The mechanisms of these impacts, and young peoples lived experiences are not artefactual, but rather support discourses on health selection and inadequate social support for young people living with the disease. The results call for the need to develop educational and social interventions to address these barriers. The full implementation of the Inclusive Education Policy (IEP) may contribute to reducing educational and social inequalities caused by ill-health.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
14. Promoting menstrual health and hygiene—insights from the 2023 World Menstrual Hygiene Day celebration events in the Hohoe municipality in Ghana
- Author
-
Sitsofe Gbogbo, Israel Wuresah, Phyllis Addo, Senam Klomegah, Emmanuel Gbogbo, Wisdom Axame, Priscilla Klutse, Christopher Makam, Robert Kokou Dowou, Paramount Eli Nelson, Ishmael Boateng, Sarah Odi Mantey, Nuworza Kugbey, Victor Christian Korley Doku, Julie Hennegan, Frank E. Baiden, Lydia Aziato, and Fred N. Binka
- Subjects
menstrual health ,menstrual rights ,World Menstrual Hygiene Day ,menstrual health education ,cultural acceptance ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
The 2023 World Menstrual Hygiene Day (WMHD) celebration at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) sought to create awareness about menstruation. Toward normalizing menstruation, the 3-day event brought together key stakeholders and engaged community members on various topics relating to menstruation. Among the stakeholders were basic school teachers (13), school children (155), in a 2:1 female vs. male ratio within the ages of 10–17 years, School Health and Education Program Coordinators (2), Health Officers (4), Academicians (15), University students (35), Media representatives (3), and Civil society representatives (130). Particular among these discussions were the biology of menstruation, nutrition related facts during menstruation, sociocultural, and mental health issues surrounding menstruation. These discussions were intended to incite more conversations about menstruation, and contribute toward the agenda 2030 goal of making menstruation a normal fact of life. The paper describes activities conducted to improve menstrual health, reduce period poverty, and involve men in breaking the stigma around menstruation. This contributes to creating supportive environments for menstruating individuals. Meanwhile, the lessons from the activities to celebrate WMHD in Ghana are relevant for other communities to consider replicating with consideration for contextual differences.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
15. Rainfall Variabilty, Climate Finance and Gender Inequality: A Zoom in on Sub-saharan Africa Women
- Author
-
Isaac Doku
- Subjects
Climate Finance, Rainfall Variability, Gender Inequality and Generalised Method of Moment ,Business ,HF5001-6182 ,Economics as a science ,HB71-74 - Abstract
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-10 opines that all countries should reduce inequality (being it gender, income, regional or emission inequality) by 2030. However, the exacerbating effect of climate variability seems to widen gender inequality in developing countries such as Sub-Saharan Africa. It is on this backdrop that the UNFCCC mentioned the need for gender mainstreaming in raising climate finance to support developing countries. The main purpose of the study is to find out whether climate finance and rainfall variability impacts gender inequality among 46 Sub-Saharan Africa countries. Data was analysed using system generalised method of moment, to deal with the endogeneity problem inherent in the model. Sensitivity of the estimates was carried out to test the robustness of our results using panel quantile regression. The findings indicate that, SSA countries experiencing high rainfall variability are facing worsening gender inequality both in the short-run and long-run. For climate finance, it showed a significant gender equality strengthening effect in SSA both in the short-run and long-run. This indicates that, CF geared toward developing countries is not only helping mitigate and adapt to climate change, but bridging the gender gap too. Based on that, several policy implications are discussed.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
16. Promoting Deaf-Adults' Participation in Early Care and Education of Deaf Children
- Author
-
Fobi, Daniel, Swanwick, Ruth, Asomaning, Derrick, and Doku, Richard
- Abstract
Few studies exist on the early care and education (ECE) of children who are deaf in low-to-middle-income countries, and none examine the roles of deaf adults in such provision. A research base is needed to inform contextually sensitive "deaf-infused" models of ECE in such contexts that build on indigenous deaf community experience, knowledge, and local expertise. This paper discusses the development of ECE in Ghana in sub-Saharan Africa focusing specifically on the perspectives of deaf adults on their roles in ECE support and leadership. Seventeen deaf adults with different leadership and advocacy roles in Ghana were interviewed about their perceptions of ECE priorities in this context, and the role of deaf adults in the development and delivery of early support. The participants expressed diverse views on ECE for the children and their families and suggested ways of building capacity and leadership among deaf adults to support ECE for the children and their families.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
17. Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine uptake: evidence from a vulnerable global South setting
- Author
-
John Oti Amoah, Susanna Aba Abraham, Charles Atanga Adongo, Deogratias Kaheeru Sekimpi, David Cudjoe Adukpo, Dorcas Obiri-Yeboah, and David Teye Doku
- Subjects
COVID-19 vaccination ,Hesitancy ,Ghana ,Decision-making factors ,Public health ,Medicine ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Science (General) ,Q1-390 - Abstract
Abstract Objective Studies are paying increasing attention to complex social determinants in explaining the variation in the rates COVID-19 vaccine uptake. This study examines the influence of various individual, contextual, and vaccine-related factors on COVID-19 vaccine uptake behaviour in a resource-scarce and vulnerable setting using a quantitative research approach. Using a multi-staged cluster sampling approach, 408 individuals from 204 households in Cape Coast, Ghana’s tourism hub, were surveyed. Probit and logistic regression models were estimated to test the vaccine-related factors. Results A significant difference is observed between wait time and vaccination status (χ2 = 21.17; p = 0.000). Moreover, age and religion, as controlled variables, equally played significant roles in influencing the adoption of the vaccine. Other factors encompass the perceived risk of contracting COVID-19, the perceived benefits of the vaccine in relation to its side effects, and the level of trust individuals have in the concern of vaccine producers for their health. These findings call for targeted campaigns by the Ministry of Health, health facilities and other institutions promoting the COVID-19 vaccine. These actors should emphasize the benefits of vaccination, prioritize trust-building initiatives, and provide clear guidance on vaccination schedules, and manage waiting time.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
18. Towards an integrated type 1 diabetes management in low-resource settings: barriers faced by patients and their caregivers in healthcare facilities in Ghana
- Author
-
Bernard Afriyie Owusu and David Teye Doku
- Subjects
Non-communicable diseases ,Diabetes ,Youth ,Universal health coverage ,Implementation science ,Health services research ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background In Low-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), young people living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) face structural barriers which undermine adequate T1DM management and lead to poor health outcomes. However, research on the barriers faced by young people living with T1DM have mostly focused on patient factors, neglecting concerns regarding plausible barriers that may exist at the point of healthcare service delivery. Objective This study sought to explore barriers faced by young people living with T1DM and their caregivers at the point of healthcare service delivery. Methods Data were drawn from a qualitative research in southern Ghana. The research was underpinned by a phenomenological study design. Data were collected from 28 young people living with T1DM, 12 caregivers, and six healthcare providers using semi-structured interview guides. The data were collected at home, hospital, and support group centres via face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, and videoconferencing. Thematic and framework analyses were done using CAQDAS (QSR NVivo 14). Results Eight key barriers were identified. These were: shortage of insulin and management logistics; healthcare provider knowledge gaps; lack of T1DM care continuity; poor healthcare provider-caregiver interactions; lack of specialists’ care; sharing of physical space with adult patients; long waiting time; and outdated treatment plans. The multiple barriers identified suggest the need for an integrated model of T1DM to improve its care delivery in low-resource settings. We adapted the Chronic Care Model (CCM) to develop an Integrated Healthcare for T1DM management in low-resource settings. Conclusion Young people living with T1DM, and their caregivers encountered multiple healthcare barriers in both in-patient and outpatient healthcare facilities. The results highlight important intervention areas which must be addressed/improved to optimise T1DM care, as well as call for the implementation of a proposed integrated approach to T1DM care in low-resource settings.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
19. Literacy-related factors and knowledge of patient rights charter: evidence from nurses in selected hospitals in Ghana
- Author
-
John Foster Atta-Doku, Gordon Abekah-Nkrumah, Jacqueline Nkrumah, and Prince Owusu Adoma
- Subjects
Comprehension ,Patient rights Charter ,Nurse ,Literacy ,Policy ,Nursing ,RT1-120 - Abstract
Abstract Background Systems of across the world have developed and implemented patient rights policies to protect and improve the provider-patient relationship. The Patient Charter of Ghana was developed in 2002 to improve service quality and protect patients’ rights. However, it is not yet known whether those at the frontline of healthcare delivery can read and understand the contents of the charter. While studies have explored the socioeconomic and institutional level factors related to awareness and knowledge of the Patient Rights Charter, there is a lack of literature on its readability and comprehensibility among nurses. This study assesses nurses’ knowledge of the Patient Rights Charter and associated literacy-related factors. Method An exploratory cross-sectional design and quantitative methods were used to collect data on knowledge, comprehension, and readability of the Patient Rights Charter. 205 nurses from four district hospitals in the Central Region were recruited using proportional and total enumeration sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and were processed using SPSS (version 26) and an online text readability consensus calculator (version 2.0). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed, and data were presented using simple frequencies, readability statistics, and regression output. Results The results show the charter is written at a higher reading grade level; Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (13.36), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (11.57), and Coleman-Liau Readability Index (14.2). The average reading grade level score was 14. The Gunning Fox Index (15.40) and the Flesch Reading Ease Score (34%) show the patient charter is difficult to read and will require at least 14 years of education to be able to read. 87.3% of nurses were able to read and comprehend the charter. Very few (8.3%) read at frustration level. Nurses’ actual comprehension of the charter was the only significant predictor of knowledge of the charter. Conclusion Comprehension of the patient charter is an important predictor of its knowledge. The results emphasize the need to enhance the readability and comprehensibility of the charter for providers. Hospitals can stimulate nurses’ knowledge of the charter by simplifying the charter’s language and deliberately educating nurses on its content.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
20. The well-posedness of the stochastic nonlinear Schr\'odinger equations in $H^2(\mathbb{R}^d)$
- Author
-
Dôku, Isamu, Hashimoto, Shunya, and Machihara, Shuji
- Subjects
Mathematics - Analysis of PDEs ,Mathematics - Probability ,60H15, 35B65, 35J10 - Abstract
The Cauchy problem for the stochastic nonlinear Schr\"odinger equation with multiplicative noise is considered where the nonlinear term is of power type and the noise coefficients are purely imaginary numbers. The main purpose of this paper is to construct classical solutions in $H^2(\mathbb{R}^d)$ for the problem. The techniques of Kato \cite{K87,K89} work well in overcoming this difficulty even for the stochastic equations., Comment: 27 pages, no figures
- Published
- 2022
21. Does foreign capital flow into ‘greener pastures’? Exploring the potential of FDI in mitigating carbon emissions in African states
- Author
-
Andrew Phiri and Isaac Doku
- Subjects
Pollution Haven hypothesis ,Pollution Halo hypothesis ,Foreign direct investment ,Carbon emissions ,ARDL ,wavelet coherence ,Renewable energy sources ,TJ807-830 - Abstract
ABSTRACTOur study provides fresh insights into FDI's impact on carbon emissions across 51 African nations. Analysing data from 1990 to 2021, we use ARDL estimates and wavelet coherence analysis. While ARDL shows insignificant cointegration for most countries, wavelet coherence reveals: (i) 17 countries with a positive FDI-emissions link, (ii) 16 countries with a negative association, and (iii) 18 countries with ‘sign switching’ nonlinear dynamics. With no clear regional patterns, our main policy implication stresses the need for aligning regional efforts, like AfCFTA, with tailored country-specific strategies to guide capital flows towards cleaner industries. We advocate for industry-level FDI data in Africa to pinpoint sectors needing monitoring for greener production. On the global policymaking level, we assert that FDI cannot significantly address climate justice for most African countries.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
22. Is climate finance aiding food security in developing countries? A focus on Sub-Sahara Africa
- Author
-
Andrew Phiri and Isaac Doku
- Subjects
Climate finance ,food security ,climate justice ,generalized methods of moments ,quantile regressions ,Sub-Sahara Africa ,Finance ,HG1-9999 ,Economic theory. Demography ,HB1-3840 - Abstract
AbstractThis study seeks to find out whether climate finance (CF) geared toward 35 Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) countries is assisting to achieve food security in the continent. To achieve this objective, we adopted FAO’s classification of food security of 4 main dimensions: food availability, access, stability and utilization and use principal component analysis (PCA) to generate food security indexes corresponding to the different dimensions of food security. The data was analyzed using system generalized methods of moments (GMM) whereas panel quantile regression (PQR) was employed as a sensitivity analysis. Our findings show that climate finance is more useful in securing food availability but fails to enhance food access, stability and utilization. Further analysis shows that other factors such as foreign direct investment and government readiness have more impact in enhancing the different dimensions of food security whilst rural population, agricultural spending, agricultural land and capacity have more adverse effects on food security. Relevant policy implications based on our analysis are discussed.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
23. First Time Presentation of Graves' Hyperthyroidism With Psychotic Symptoms: A Case Report
- Author
-
Oluwatobi Ajewole and Victor Doku
- Subjects
Psychiatry ,RC435-571 - Abstract
Aims Graves’ disease, an autoimmune illness, is one of the most common causes of thyrotoxicosis and often presents with classic symptoms of hyperthyroidism. However, patients can rarely present for the first time with psychiatric symptoms, including psychotic and mood symptoms or a combination of both, and there is limited data on the most effective treatment. Methods Here, we report the case of a 24-year-old black British female who had no previous psychiatric or medical history, presenting for the first time with one week history of poor sleep, disordered thought, and bizarre and violent behaviour towards family. Collateral history describes her premorbid personality as “anxious and perfectionist”, with the only recent stressors identified being preparations for her best friend's wedding. Her mental state on presentation was remarkable for tangential and circumstantial speech, incongruent affect, and lack of insight into illness. She was admitted to an acute adult ward under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act (MHA) after being “medically cleared” but before the results of her thyroid function tests were available. She was transferred back to the acute medical ward a day into psychiatric admission, where she was treated medically for thyrotoxicosis and discharged with the support of the Home Treatment Team after an almost complete recovery in her mental state. Initial symptoms recurred two weeks after discharge, culminating in another admission cycle initially to a psychiatric unit under the MHA, where she was treated with oral risperidone and a medical ward for further medical investigations. Her mental state improved significantly again, and she was discharged home to the concerted care of both a community mental health team and follow-up with the endocrinology team. On outpatient psychiatric review a year following discharge, the patient remains stable in her mental state and has achieved a euthyroid state with plans to taper off and withdraw risperidone gradually. Results This case shows the importance of a thorough physical health assessment and investigation before making psychiatric management decisions. It also points out the drawback of the divide between physical and mental health services, the impact this has on patient care and experience within the National Health Service, and the mixed success of medical management in controlling psychiatric symptoms. Conclusion This case describes the rare presentation and successful management of psychosis induced by thyrotoxicosis in a female patient with Graves’ disease. It highlights the need for prompt, interdisciplinary care to diagnose and safely manage such patients correctly.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
24. The Ghana heart initiative – a health system strengthening approach as index intervention model to solving Ghana’s cardiovascular disease burden
- Author
-
Alfred K. Doku, John Tetteh, Juliette Edzeame, Ron J. G. Peters, Charles Agyemang, Elom Hillary Otchi, and Alfred Edwin Yawson
- Subjects
cardiovascular disease ,health system strengthening (HSS) ,case management guidelines ,Akoma care app ,Ghana heart initiative ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide, with 80% of these deaths occurring in low-middle income countries (LMICs). In Ghana and across Africa, CVDs have emerged as the leading causes of death primarily due to undetected and under treated hypertension, yet less than 5% of resources allocated to health in these resource-poor countries go into non-communicable diseases (NCD) including CVD prevention and management. Consequently, most countries in Africa do not have contextually appropriate and sustainable health system framework to prevent, detect and manage CVD to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in CVD care through improved Primary Health Care (PHC) with the aim of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in CVD/NCD. In view of this, the Ghana Heart Initiative (GHI) was envisaged as a national strategy to address the identified gaps using a health system and a population-based approach to reduce the national burden of CVDs. The GHI intervention includes the development of guidelines and training manuals; training, equipment support, establishment of a national call/support center, and improvement in the national data capturing system for CVDs and NCD, management of Hypertension, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Heart Failure (HF). Following the implementation of the GHI concept, a national CVD Management Guideline was developed and 300-health facilities across the different levels of care including one teaching hospital, was also supported with basic life-saving equipment. In addition, more than 1,500 healthcare workers also reported improvement in their knowledge and skills in the management and treatment of CVD-related cases in their health facilities. These are key contributions to strengthening the health system for CVD care and learning lessons for scale up.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
25. Assessing and Improving the Care of Patients With Heart Failure in Ghana: Protocol for a Prospective Observational Study and the Ghana Heart Initiative-Heart Failure Registry
- Author
-
Felix Awindaogo, Emmanuel Acheamfour-Akowuah, Alfred Doku, Collins Kokuro, Francis Agyekum, and Isaac Kofi Owusu
- Subjects
Medicine ,Computer applications to medicine. Medical informatics ,R858-859.7 - Abstract
BackgroundHeart failure (HF) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with a high disease burden. The prevalence of HF in Ghana is increasing rapidly, but epidemiological profiles, treatment patterns, and survival data are scarce. The national capacity to diagnose and manage HF appropriately is also limited. To address the growing epidemic of HF, it is crucial to recognize the epidemiological characteristics and medium-term outcomes of HF in Ghana and improve the capability to identify and manage HF promptly and effectively at all levels of care. ObjectiveThis study aims to determine the epidemiological characteristics and medium-term HF outcomes in Ghana. MethodsWe conducted a prospective, multicenter, multilevel cross-sectional observational study of patients with HF from January to December 2023. Approximately 5000 patients presenting with HF to 9 hospitals, including teaching, regional, and municipal hospitals, will be recruited and evaluated according to a standardized protocol, including the use of an echocardiogram and an N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) test. Guideline-directed medical treatment of HF will be initiated for 6 months, and the medium-term outcomes of interventions, including rehospitalization and mortality, will be assessed. Patient data will be collated into a HF registry for continuous assessment and monitoring. ResultsThis intervention will generate the necessary information on the etiology of HF, clinical presentations, the diagnostic yield of various tools, and management outcomes. In addition, it will build the necessary capacity and support for HF management in Ghana. As of July 30, 2023, the training and onboarding of all 9 centers had been completed. Preliminary analyses will be conducted by the end of the second quarter of 2024, and results are expected to be publicly available by the middle of 2024. ConclusionsThis study will provide the necessary data on HF, which will inform decisions on the prevention and management of HF and form the basis for future research. Trial RegistrationISRCTN Registry (United Kingdom) ISRCTN18216214; https:www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN18216214 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/52616
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
26. Estimation of the tail index of Pareto-type distributions using regularisation
- Author
-
Ocran, E., Minkah, R., Kallah-Dagadu, G., and Doku-Amponsah, K.
- Subjects
Statistics - Methodology ,62G32, 60F10, 60F25 - Abstract
In this paper, we introduce reduced-bias estimators for the estimation of the tail index of a Pareto-type distribution. This is achieved through the use of a regularised weighted least squares with an exponential regression model for log-spacings of top order statistics. The asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators are investigated analytically and found to be asymptotically unbiased, consistent and normally distributed. Also, the finite sample behaviour of the estimators are studied through a simulations theory. The proposed estimators were found to yield low bias and MSE. In addition, the proposed estimators are illustrated through the estimation of the tail index of the underlying distribution of claims from the insurance industry., Comment: 24 pages
- Published
- 2022
27. A systematic review and meta-analysis of food handling practices in Ghana vis-a-vis the associated factors among food handlers during 2009 and 2022
- Author
-
Lawrence Sena Tuglo, Snehasish Mishra, Ranjan K. Mohapatra, Nii Korley Kortei, John Nsor-Atindana, Henok Mulugeta, Qingyun Lu, Mavis Pearl Kwabla, Agabus Tetteh Patu, Tania Chaudhuri, Jessica Dzigbordi Tuglo, Subrata Narayan Das, Sylvia Mawusinu Sakre, Komla Sylvester Affram, and Alfred Doku
- Subjects
Medicine ,Science - Abstract
Abstract Foodborne diseases (FBDs) are a major public health concern, especially in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, such as Ghana, where poor food handling practices (FHPs) are prevalent. To estimate the pooled proportion of good FHPs and the associated factors among Ghanaian food handlers, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to aid scholars, practitioners and policymakers in devising FBD-preventable interventions. The scientific databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, African Journals Online, ProQuest, and Directory of Open Access Journals were systematically searched until April 19, 2023, for relevant literature. Observational studies meeting the inclusion criteria of reported good FHPs among food handlers were included. Three authors independently searched the database, assessed the risks of bias and extracted the data from the shortlisted articles. A random-effects model with the DerSimonian and Laird model was used to estimate the pooled effect size of FHPs and the pooled odds ratio (POR) of FHP-associated factors. Out of the 2019 records collated, 33 with a total sample size of 6095 food handlers met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. The pooled proportion of good FHPs among Ghanaian food handlers was 55.8% [95% Cl (48.7, 62.8%); I2 = 97.4%; p
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
28. A Reduced-Bias Weighted least square estimation of the Extreme Value Index
- Author
-
Ocran, E., Minkah, R., and Doku-Amponsah, K.
- Subjects
Statistics - Methodology ,Mathematics - Statistics Theory ,Statistics - Applications ,60670, 60F05, 60F10 - Abstract
In this paper, we propose a reduced-bias estimator of the EVI for Pareto-type tails (heavy-tailed) distributions. This is derived using the weighted least squares method. It is shown that the estimator is unbiased, consistent and asymptotically normal under the second-order conditions on the underlying distribution of the data. The finite sample properties of the proposed estimator are studied through a simulation study. The results show that it is competitive to the existing estimators of the extreme value index in terms of bias and Mean Square Error. In addition, it yields estimates of $\gamma>0$ that are less sensitive to the number of top-order statistics, and hence, can be used for selecting an optimal tail fraction. The proposed estimator is further illustrated using practical datasets from pedochemical and insurance., Comment: 26 pages
- Published
- 2021
29. Evaluating the Effectiveness of African School of Hypertension for Non-Physician Health Workers, a Qualitative Study: QuASH Hypertension Study
- Author
-
Godsent C. Isiguzo, Oluseyi A. Adejumo, Ifeanyi E. Nwude, Uzochukwu M. Amaechi, Ayodele Y. Ayoola, Manmak H. Mamven, Reuben K. Mutagaywa, Ayodipupo S. Oguntade, Kelechi G. Isiguzo, Abiodun M. Adeoye, Beheiry M. Hind, Alfred Doku, Albertino A. Damasceno, Lucia D. Mbulaje, Sebastian C. Marwa, Akinyemi Aje, Louis Avorkliya, Lamin E. S. Jaiteh, Florence K. Akumiah, Elijah N. Ogola, Tangeni Auala, Chinonso J. Okereke, Basden J. Onwubere, Abiodun A. Akintunde, and Augustine N. Odili
- Subjects
african hypertension school ,task sharing ,task shifting ,feedback ,Diseases of the circulatory (Cardiovascular) system ,RC666-701 ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Background: The implementation of task sharing and shifting (TSTS) policy as a way of addressing the shortage of physicians and reducing the burden of hypertension in Africa birthed the idea of the African School of Hypertension (ASH). The ASH is saddled with the responsibility of training non-physician health workers across Africa continent in the management of uncomplicated hypertension. Aim: To get feedback from some faculty members and students who participated in the first ASH programme. Methods: This was a cross-sectional exploratory qualitative study conducted among eight students and eight faculty members. Feedback from the program was obtained by conducting in-depth interviews centred on description of course content; expectations and knowledge acquired from ASH; level of interaction between students and faculty members; challenges faced during the ASH; level of implementation of acquired training; and suggestions to improve subsequent ASH programs Results: The course content of the ASH was described as simple, appropriate and adequate while interaction between students and faculty members were highly cordial and engaging. New knowledge about hypertension management was acquired by the students with different levels of implementation post-graduation. Some identified challenges with the ASH program were poor internet connectivity during lectures, non-uniformity of TSTS policies and hypertension management guidelines across Africa, technical problems with hypertension management app and low participation from other African countries apart from Nigeria. Some recommendations to improve ASH program were development of a uniform hypertension management guideline for Africans, wider publicity of the ASH, interpretation of lectures into French and Portuguese languages and improvement of internet connectivity. Conclusion: The ASH programme has largely achieved its objectives with the very encouraging feedback received from both faculty members and the students. Steps should be taken to address the identified challenges and implement the suggested recommendations in subsequent ASH program to sustain this success.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
30. Large Large deviations for spatial telecommunication systems: The boolean model
- Author
-
Boahen, A. K., Katsekpor, T., and Doku-Amponsah, K.
- Subjects
Mathematics - Probability ,Computer Science - Social and Information Networks ,60F10, 05C80, 68Q87 - Abstract
Spatial telecommunication systems have evolved along the years, leading to some concerns that telecommunication companies are facing today. The main inquietude is the ability to provide quality service to customers or users in a dense regime. Therefore, questions such as : what is the best possible configurations of base stations and users that maximizes quality service? Is it possible to estimate and control the probability of bad service, which may be seen as a rare event? and many more arise. These questions often involve estimating the tail distribution of events, which falls under the scope of large deviation principles. In this article, we associate with the Boolean model, the empirical marked measure which will serve as a statistic for the intensity measure of the Marked Poisson Point Process of devices or users and the empirical connectivity measure which will serve as a statistic for coverage probability density of the spatial telecommunication area. For these empirical measures, prove large deviation principle (LDP) for well-defined empirical measures., Comment: 17 pages
- Published
- 2021
31. A systematic review and meta-analysis of food handling practices in Ghana vis-a-vis the associated factors among food handlers during 2009 and 2022
- Author
-
Tuglo, Lawrence Sena, Mishra, Snehasish, Mohapatra, Ranjan K., Kortei, Nii Korley, Nsor-Atindana, John, Mulugeta, Henok, Lu, Qingyun, Kwabla, Mavis Pearl, Patu, Agabus Tetteh, Chaudhuri, Tania, Tuglo, Jessica Dzigbordi, Das, Subrata Narayan, Sakre, Sylvia Mawusinu, Affram, Komla Sylvester, and Doku, Alfred
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. Coping and adaptation strategies among young persons living with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers: textual and photovoice analyses
- Author
-
Owusu, Bernard Afriyie, Ofori-Boateng, Prince, and Doku, David Teye
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
33. A multilevel and multicenter assessment of health care system capacity to manage cardiovascular diseases in Africa: a baseline study of the Ghana Heart Initiative
- Author
-
Doku, Alfred, Tuglo, Lawrence Sena, Chilunga, Felix, Edzeame, Juliette, Peters, Ron J.G., and Agyemang, Charles
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. Culture and pandemic control at cross-roads: navigating the burial guidelines for COVID-19-related deaths in a Ghanaian setting
- Author
-
Takyiakwaa, Dorothy, Tuoyire, Derek Anamaale, Abraham, Susanna Aba, Agyare, Elizabeth Ama, Amoah, John Oti, Owusu-Sarpong, Akosua Agyeiwaa, Omona, Kizito, Obiri-Yeboah, Dorcas, and Doku, David Teye
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Contemporary aetiology of acute heart failure in a teaching hospital in Ghana
- Author
-
Agyekum, Francis, Folson, Aba A., Asare, Bernard Yeboah-Asiamah, Doku, Alfred, Kpodonu, John, Okine, Rafiq, Fokuoh, Forster, and Akamah, Joseph Atiah
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Exploring the role of religion in the recovery experiences of suicide attempt survivors in Ghana
- Author
-
Osafo, Joseph, Asare-Doku, Winifred, and Akotia, Charity S.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. Preliminary investigation on the occurrence and health risk assessment of antibiotics in cultured tilapia retailed at a commercial outlet in Tema, Ghana
- Author
-
Emmanuel Kaboja Magna, Francis Ofosu-Koranteng, Ruby Asmah, Emmanuel Tetteh-Doku Mensah, Ebenezer Koranteng Appiah, Patrick Senam Fatsi, Frank Adu-Nti, Zenobia Castel Kpodo, and Ishmael Lente
- Subjects
Antibiotics ,Tilapia ,UHPLC/MS/MS ,Tema ,Health risk ,Science (General) ,Q1-390 ,Social sciences (General) ,H1-99 - Abstract
In Ghana, Nile tilapia is one of the most commonly cultivated fish species. Bacterial infections, which mostly occur in intensive fish farming, are considered to be the most significant health issue facing these culture systems in Ghana's aquaculture industry. To prevent, and treat bacterial infections and promote fish growth, antimicrobials are often used, and in most cases at unregulated doses. However, this misuse and neglect of withdrawal durations for such antimicrobials may result in drug residues showing up in fish edible tissue, posing a risk to human consumers. To evaluate the risk to consumers, this study screened for antibiotic residues in popular tilapia fish sold at a retail outlet in Tema. Using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS/MS), the study analysed the levels of 12 antibiotics present in 24 tilapia samples sold at a retail outlet in Tema. Erythromycin, tetracycline, oxytetracycline, and amoxicillin were detected at varying levels, with frequencies of 20.8 %, 62.5 %, 58.3 %, and 54.2 %, respectively. The highest concentration of 3.521 ± 0.32 μg/kg was found for oxytetracycline, while erythromycin had the lowest concentration (0.276 ± 0.11 μg/kg) in the samples. According to the study, the levels of antibiotics detected in the sampled tilapia were lower than the maximum residue limits (MRL) recommended by the WHO. Additionally, both the hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) values were less than one. Therefore, consuming retail farmed tilapia purchased from the commercial outlet in Tema metropolis was deemed to pose no significant risk to human health. However, regular monitoring of antibiotics and other contaminants is necessary to minimise their potential impacts on human health.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. Effectiveness of digital health interventions on blood pressure control, lifestyle behaviours and adherence to medication in patients with hypertension in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trialsResearch in context
- Author
-
Vincent Boima, Alfred Doku, Francis Agyekum, Lawrence Sena Tuglo, and Charles Agyemang
- Subjects
Digital health interventions ,Blood pressure control ,Lifestyle behaviours ,Adherence to medication ,Patients with hypertension ,Medicine (General) ,R5-920 - Abstract
Summary: Background: Digital health interventions can be effective for blood pressure (BP) control, but a comparison of the effectiveness and application of these types of interventions has not yet been systematically evaluated in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of digital health interventions according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) classifications of patients in terms of BP control, lifestyle behaviour changes, and adherence to medication in patients with hypertension in LMICs. Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English, comprised of adults (≥18 years old) with hypertension and the intervention consisted of digital health interventions according to WHO's classifications for patients in LMICs between January 1, 2009, and July 17, 2023. We excluded RCTs that considered patients with hypertension comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension-mediated target organ damage (HMTOD). The references were downloaded into Mendeley Desktop and imported into the Rayyan web tool for deduplication and screening. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias 2. Data extraction was done according to Cochrane's guidelines. The main outcome measures were mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) and BP control which were assessed using the random-effect DerSimonian-Laird and Mantel-Haenszel models. We presented the BP outcomes, lifestyle behaviour changes and medication adherence in forest plots as well as summarized them in tables. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023424227. Findings: We identified 9322 articles, of which 22 RCTs from 12 countries (n = 12,892 respondents) were included in the systematic review. The quality of the 22 studies was graded as high risk (n = 7), had some concerns (n = 3) and low risk of bias (n = 12). A total of 19 RCTs (n = 12,418 respondents) were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, digital health intervention had significant reductions in SBP [mean difference (MD) = −4.43 mmHg (95% CI −6.19 to −2.67), I2 = 92%] and BP control [odds ratio (OR) = 2.20 (95% CI 1.64–2.94), I2 = 78%], respectively, compared with usual care. A subgroup analysis revealed that short message service (SMS) interventions had the greatest statistically significant reduction of SBP [MD = −5.75 mm Hg (95% Cl −7.77 to −3.73), I2 = 86%] compared to mobile phone calls [MD = 3.08 mm Hg (−6.16 to 12.32), I2 = 87%] or smartphone apps interventions [MD = −4.06 mm Hg (−6.56 to −1.55), I2 = 79%], but the difference between groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.14). The meta-analysis showed that the interventions had a significant effect in supporting changes in lifestyle behaviours related to a low salt diet [standardised mean difference (SMD) = 1.25; (95% CI 0.64–1.87), I2 = 89%], physical activity [SMD = 1.30; (95% CI 0.23–2.37), I2 = 94%] and smoking reduction [risk difference (RR) = 0.03; (95% CI 0.01–0.05), I2 = 0%] compared to the control group. In addition, improvement in medication adherence was statistically significant and higher in the intervention group than in the control group [SMD = 1.59; (95% CI 0.51–2.67), I2 = 97%]. Interpretation: Our findings suggest that digital health interventions may be effective for BP control, changes in lifestyle behaviours, and improvements in medication adherence in LMICs. However, we observed high heterogeneity between included studies, and only two studies from Africa were included. The combination of digital health interventions with clinical management is crucial to achieving optimal clinical effectiveness in BP control, changes in lifestyle behaviours and improvements in medication adherence. Funding: None.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
39. Knowledge and use of art therapy for mental health treatment among clinical psychologists.
- Author
-
Eugenia Priscilla Doku Asare, Sandra Boatemaa Kushitor, Edward Kofi Sutherland, Millicent Ofori Boateng, and Stephen Manortey
- Subjects
Medicine ,Science - Abstract
BackgroundArt therapy allows people to express feelings about any subject through creative work. It is beneficial for people who feel out of touch with their emotions. In Ghana, little is known about art therapy as a therapeutic tool. Herbal treatment, biomedical and faith healing practices are the most common treatment options for mental health. This research aimed to provide new insights into clinical psychologists on their knowledge and use of art therapy in treating clients and identified the enablers and barriers in this therapeutic intervention.MethodTwenty-one clinical psychologists were sampled using the snowball sampling method. They were interviewed over the phone using a semi-structured interview guide which was developed based on the predefined study objectives. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data resulting in three central thematic areas.ResultsTwelve of the clinical psychologists were females and eight were male, with an age range between twenty-five to fifty years. The major themes identified were knowledge of art therapy, the use of art therapy and enablers and barriers in using art therapy. The study revealed that clinical psychologists had limited knowledge of art therapy mainly due to lack of training. With the use of art therapy, the participants revealed that they had used some form of art therapy before and they perceived art therapy to be effective on their clients however, they demonstrated low confidence in using it. Practitioner training and the availability of art therapy-related resources were identified as both facilitators and hindrances to the use of art therapy.ConclusionClinical Psychologists are cognizant of art therapy albeit they have limited knowledge. Therefore, training in how to use art therapy and the availability of resources to facilitate art therapy can be provided for Clinical Psychologists by the Ghana Mental Health Authority.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. Climate finance and women-hunger alleviation in the global south: Is the Sub-Saharan Africa case any different?
- Author
-
Isaac Doku and Andrew Phiri
- Subjects
Medicine ,Science - Abstract
To unearth the influence of climate finance (CF) on women-hunger alleviation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the study used unbalanced panel data for 43 SSA countries for the period 2006-2018. Data was analysed using system-GMM to deal with the endogeneity problem inherent in the model, among other panel regression estimators. Also, the sensitivity of the estimates was carried out using panel fixed effect quantile regression. The findings showed that CF and its components have a significant effect on women-hunger alleviation in SSA, apart from FDI. Further, control of corruption also showed a significant women-hunger alleviation impact. For the climate variables, areas in SSA with higher temperature are more likely to experience worsened women-hunger. Based on the findings, the study recommends that SSA countries need to strengthen their fight against corruption. More so, donors should extend CF as financial aid or support to government budget, due to their potential of alleviating women-hunger.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. Large Deviations and Information theory for Sub-Critical SINR Randon Network Models
- Author
-
Sakyi-Yeboah, E., Andam, P. S., Asiedu, L., and Doku-Amponsah, K.
- Subjects
Mathematics - Probability ,Computer Science - Information Theory ,60F10, 05C80, 68Q87, 28D20 - Abstract
The article obtains large deviation asymptotic for sub-critical communication networks modelled as signal-interference-noise-ratio(SINR) random networks. To achieve this, we define the empirical power measure and the empirical connectivity measure, as well as prove joint large deviation principles(LDPs) for the two empirical measures on two different scales. Using the joint LDPs, we prove an Asymptotic equipartition property(AEP) for wireless telecommunication Networks modelled as the subcritical SINR random networks. Further, we prove a Local Large deviation principle(LLDP) for the sub-critical SINR random network. From the LLDPs, we prove the large deviation principle, and a classical McMillan Theorem for the stochastic SINR model processes. Note that, the LDPs for the empirical measures of this stochastic SINR random network model were derived on spaces of measures equipped with the $\tau-$ topology, and the LLDPs were deduced in the space of SINR model process without any topological limitations. We motivate the study by describing a possible anomaly detection test for SINR random networks., Comment: 13 pages. arXiv admin note: text overlap with arXiv:2011.04479
- Published
- 2021
42. Coping and adaptation strategies among young persons living with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers: textual and photovoice analyses
- Author
-
Bernard Afriyie Owusu, Prince Ofori-Boateng, and David Teye Doku
- Subjects
Adolescence ,Stigma ,Social support ,Adaptation ,Relationship ,Youth ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background Management of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is complex and demanding. It requires patients and their caregivers, particularly those in low-resource settings to adopt productive coping strategies to achieve ideal glycaemic control. Coping and adaptation strategies have far-reaching implications on their behavioural and health outcomes. Yet, it is uncertain how young people living with T1D and their caregivers in low-resource settings cope and adapt to the challenges of T1D management. This study analysed textual and photo evidence on the coping and adaptation strategies employed by young persons living with T1D (warriors) and their caregivers in Ghana. Methods Qualitative data were collected from 28 warriors, 12 caregivers, 6 healthcare providers and other stakeholders in southern Ghana using semi-structured interview guides. Participants were identified at T1D support group centres, hospitals, and their places of residence, and recruited into the study using maximum variation and snowball sampling approaches. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews, photovoice, telephone interviews and videoconferencing and were thematically analysed using QSR NVivo 11. Results Four superordinate themes which are productive coping, non-productive coping, keeping T1D a secret, and coping with costs of care were identified. Productive coping entailed condition acceptance, planning ahead, seeking social support, borrowing insulin, and overcoming the barriers of insulin storage. On the other hand, avoidance, disengagement, and re-use of syringes were the common non-productive coping approaches. Due to stigma and discrimination, the warriors shrouded their condition in secrecy. As a response to the financial burden of T1D care, caregivers/patients borrowed money, took loans, and sold household items. Conclusion Young persons living with T1D and their caregivers adopted coping strategies which both promoted and compromised their T1D management. There was an occasional co-existence of diverse coping strategies (productive and non-productive), and these reflects the personal and contextual stressors they faced. The results call for the need to eliminate barriers of T1D management and equip patients and their caregivers with ongoing T1D coping competencies.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. A multilevel and multicenter assessment of health care system capacity to manage cardiovascular diseases in Africa: a baseline study of the Ghana Heart Initiative
- Author
-
Alfred Doku, Lawrence Sena Tuglo, Felix Chilunga, Juliette Edzeame, Ron J.G. Peters, and Charles Agyemang
- Subjects
Multilevel and multicenter assessment ,Health care system capacity ,Cardiovascular diseases ,Ghana Heart Initiative ,Diseases of the circulatory (Cardiovascular) system ,RC666-701 - Abstract
Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with over 70% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income regions such as Africa. However, most countries in Africa do not have the capacity to manage CVD. The Ghana Heart Initiative has been an ongoing national program since 2018, aimed at improving CVD care and thus reducing the death rates of these diseases in Ghana. This study therefore aimed at assessing the impact of this initiative by identifying, at baseline, the gaps in the management of CVDs within the health system to develop robust measures to bolster CVD management and care in Ghana. Methods This study employed a cross-sectional study design and was conducted from November 2019 to March 2020 in 44 health facilities in the Greater Accra region. The assessment covered CVD management, equipment availability, knowledge of health workers in CVD and others including the CVD management support system, availability of CVD management guidelines and CVD/NCD indicators in the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS2). Results The baseline data showed a total of 85,612 outpatient attendants over the period in the study facilities, 70% were women and 364(0.4%) were newly diagnosed with hypertension. A total of 83% of the newly diagnosed hypertensives were put on treatment, 56.3% (171) continued treatment during the study period and less than 10% (5%) had their blood pressure controlled at the end of the study (in March 2020). Other gaps identified included suboptimal health worker knowledge in CVD management (mean score of 69.0 ± 13.0, p
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Large Deviations, Sharron-McMillan-Breiman Theorem for Super-Critical Telecommunication Networks
- Author
-
Sakyi-Yeboah, E., Andam, P. S., Asiedu, L., and Doku-Amponsah, K.
- Subjects
Mathematics - Probability ,Computer Science - Information Theory ,60F10, 05C80, 68Q87 - Abstract
In this article we obtain large deviation asymptotics for supercritical communication networks modelled as signal-interference-noise ratio networks. To do this, we define the empirical power measure and the empirical connectivity measure, and prove joint large deviation principles(LDPs) for the two empirical measures on two different scales i.e. $\lambda$ and $\lambda^2 a_{\lambda},$ where $\lambda$ is the intensity measure of the poisson point process (PPP) which defines the SINR random network.Using this joint LDPs we prove an asymptotic equipartition property for the stochastic telecommunication Networks modelled as the SINR networks. Further, we prove a Local large deviation principle(LLDP) for the SINR Network. From the LLDP we prove the a large deviation principle, and a classical MacMillian Theorem for the stochastic SNIR network processes. Note, for tupical empirical connectivity measure, $q\pi\otimes\pi,$ we can deduce from the LLDP a bound on the cardinality of the space of SINR networks to be approximately equal to $\displaystyle e^{\lambda^2 a_{\lambda}\|q\pi\otimes\pi\|H\big(q\pi\otimes\pi/\|q\pi\otimes\pi\|\big)},$ where the connectivity probability of the network, $Q^{z^\lambda} ,$ satisfies $ a_{\lambda}^{-1}Q^{z^\lambda} \to q.$ Observe, the LDP for the empirical measures of the stochastic SINR network were obtained on spaces of measures equipped with the $\tau-$ topology, and the LLDPs were obtained in the space of SINR network process without any topological restrictions., Comment: 12 pages
- Published
- 2020
45. Culture and pandemic control at cross-roads: navigating the burial guidelines for COVID-19-related deaths in a Ghanaian setting
- Author
-
Dorothy Takyiakwaa, Derek Anamaale Tuoyire, Susanna Aba Abraham, Elizabeth Ama Agyare, John Oti Amoah, Akosua Agyeiwaa Owusu-Sarpong, Kizito Omona, Dorcas Obiri-Yeboah, and David Teye Doku
- Subjects
COVID-19 burial rites ,Culture and pandemic control ,Qualitative study ,Ghana ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background Despite the large volume of scientific evidence on the rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated high morbidity and mortality, little is known about the sociocultural disruptions which ensued. The current study explored the nuanced navigation of the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols and its impact on traditional burial and funeral rites in Ghana. Methods This qualitative study was based on the ‘focused’ ethnographic design. Data were collected using key informant interviews from nineteen COVID-19-related bereaved family members and public health officials involved in enforcing adherence to COVID-19-related death and burial protocols in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Central region of Ghana. Recursive analysis was conducted to generate the themes and sub-themes from the data. Results The overarching theme was “Uncultural” connotations ascribed to the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols. The COVID-19-related death and burial protocols were ubiquitously deemed by participants to be ‘uncultural’ as they inhibited deep-rooted indigenous and eschatological rites of separation between the living and the dead. This was fueled by limited awareness and knowledge about the COVID-19 burial protocols, resulting in fierce resistance by bereaved family members who demanded that public health officials release the bodies of their deceased relatives. Such resistance in the midst of resource limitation led to negotiated compromises of the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols between family members and public health officials. Conclusions Insensitivity to socio-cultural practices compromised the implementation of the COVID-19 pandemic control interventions, particularly, the COVID-19-related death and burial protocols. Some compromises that were not sanctioned by the protocols were reached to allow health officials and families respectfully bury their dead. These findings call for the need to prioritize the incorporation of sociocultural practices in future pandemic prevention and management strategies.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
46. Knowledge of young people living with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers about its management
- Author
-
Bernard Afriyie Owusu, Prince Ofori‐Boateng, Angus Forbes, and David Teye Doku
- Subjects
Covid‐19 ,diabetes mellitus ,diabetes self‐management education ,health literacy ,juvenile diabetes ,knowledge ,Nursing ,RT1-120 - Abstract
Abstract Aims and Objective We sought to investigate knowledge and skills of type 1 diabetes (T1D) management among young people living with the disease and their caregivers. Our aim is to provide baseline evidence to inform T1D self‐management education for young people living with the disease and their caregivers. Background Both local and international guidelines recommend ongoing T1D self‐management education for people living with the disease. This is because T1D often develops among young people who rarely have the competencies to adequately manage their condition. However, the extent to which young people living with T1D and their caregivers can self‐manage this chronic disease in a low‐resource country like Ghana is unknown. Methods Using a phenomenological study design, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 28 young people living with type 1 diabetes, 12 caregivers and 6 healthcare providers in southern Ghana. Data were collected at homes, hospitals and support group centres of participants via face‐to‐face interviews, photovoice and video‐conferencing. The data were analysed thematically using QSR NVivo 11. Results The young people living with T1D and their caregivers demonstrated knowledge and skills in the self‐monitoring of blood glucose, and the treatment of hyperglycaemia. Areas of more marginal or lack of knowledge were concerning carbohydrate counting, severe hypoglycaemia and the management of intercurrent illnesses. Young persons living with T1D and their caregivers received their management information from healthcare and non‐healthcare providers. Access to diabetes self‐management education influenced T1D management knowledge and practices. Conclusion Young people living with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers possessed limited scope of knowledge on type 1 diabetes self‐management. Multiple sources of T1D knowledge were found, some of which may not be helpful to patients. The knowledge gaps identified compromises transitional independence and self‐management capacity. Relevance to Clinical Practice It is important for clinicians and organizations that provide T1D education to provide diabetes self‐management education also on managing hypoglycaemia, carbohydrate counting and managing T1D during intercurrent life events among young people living with T1D. No Patient or Public Contribution Patients and their caregivers were interviewed as research participants. They did not conceptualize, analyse, interpret or prepare the manuscript.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
47. Large deviations, asymptotic bounds on the number of positive individuals in a Bernoulli sample via the number of positive pool samples drawn on the bernoulli sample
- Author
-
Doku-Amponsah, Kwabena
- Subjects
Mathematics - Probability ,60F10, 11B68, 11P84 - Abstract
In this paper we define for a Bernoulli samples the \emph{ empirical infection measure}, which counts the number of positives (infections) in the Bernoulli sample and for the \emph{ pool samples} we define the empirical pool infection measure, which counts the number of positive (infected) pool samples. For this empirical measures we prove a joint large deviation principle for Bernoulli samples. We also found an asymptotic relationship between the \emph{ proportion of infected individuals } with respect to the samples size, $n$ and the \emph{ proportion of infected pool samples} with respect to the number of pool samples, $k(n).$ All rate functions are expressed in terms of relative entropies., Comment: 10 pages
- Published
- 2020
48. Large Deviation Principle for Empirical SINR Measure of Critical Telecommunication Networks
- Author
-
Sakyi-Yeboah, Enoch, Kwofie, Charles, and Doku-Amponsah, Kwabena
- Subjects
Computer Science - Information Theory ,60F10, 05C80, 68Q87 - Abstract
For a \emph{ powered Poisson process}, we define \emph{Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio}(SINR) and thesinr network as a Telecommunication Network. We define the Empirical Measures (\emph{empirical powered measure}, \emph{empirical link measure} and \emph{empirical sinr measure}) of a class of Telecommunication Networks. For this class of Telecommunication Network we prove a joint large deviation principle for the empirical measures of the Telecommunication Networks. All our rate functions are expressed in terms of relative entropies., Comment: 12 pages
- Published
- 2020
49. Is Climate Finance Helping Stabilise Food Prices in Sub-Saharan Africa?
- Author
-
Isaac Doku and Andrew Phiri
- Subjects
climate finance ,food prices ,climate change ,Sub-Saharan Africa ,Economic growth, development, planning ,HD72-88 - Abstract
This study explores the potential impact of climate finance (cf) on food prices in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) as climate change continues to create food scarcity and increase food prices. The study analyses data from 43 SSA countries between 2006 and 2018 using a panel fixed effect model with Driscoll-Kraay standard errors and methods of moments quantile regressions (MMQR). The findings indicate that countries in SSA that receive more cf, improve their fight against corruption, have good rainfall patterns, experience reduced extreme temperatures, have depreciated currencies, larger populations and higher GDP growth, reduce food imports, increase domestic food supply, and demonstrate high governance and social readiness are likely to experience stable or reduced food prices. Based on these results, the study recommends that SSA governments prioritise anticorruption efforts to earn donor trust and increase CF, ultimately leading to lower food prices in the sub-region. Further, the findings indicate that good rainfall patterns reduce food prices: this shows the need for SSA countries to invest in policies that lead to reliablewater supply as irrigation.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Grafting for sustainable management of Fusarium wilt disease in tomato production in Ghana
- Author
-
Jennifer E. Awu, Seloame T. Nyaku, Jacqueline N. Amissah, Benjamin A. Okorley, Prince J.A. Agyapong, Favour E. Doku, and George O. Nkansah
- Subjects
Grafting ,Rootstock ,Fusarium ,Solanum macrocarpon ,Torvum ,Agriculture (General) ,S1-972 ,Nutrition. Foods and food supply ,TX341-641 - Abstract
Fusarium wilt disease limits tomato production, especially in Ghana. In managing the Fusarium wilt disease, two rootstocks (Solanum torvum and Solanum macrocarpon) were used in grafting experiments. Plant growth, yield, disease severity and incidence of both grafted plants, and non-grafted plants were evaluated in a pot experiment and also under a naturally infected open field condition at Berekum. During the early stage (14 days after inoculation) under artificial inoculation conditions, grafted plants exhibited higher photosynthetic rates (10.41 μmol−2s−1) compared to the non-grafted plants (8.36 μmol−2s−1). Under naturally infested field conditions, chlorophyll content and photosynthetic rate of non-grafted plants decreased. Solanum lycopersicum grafted onto S. macrocarpon and S. torvum were moderately susceptible (20%–40%) to Fusarium oxysporum. However, the non-grafted plants were highly susceptible (50%–100%). Yield from the pot experiment for S. lycopersicum grafted onto S. macrocarpon was significantly higher (453.1 g/plant), compared to S. lycopersicum grafted onto S. torvum (350.3 g/plant) and the non-grafted plant (205 g/plant). However, in naturally infected field, the grafted plants increased in fruit yield compared to the non-grafted tomato plants. Solanum macrocarpon and S. torvum as rootstocks offered resistance against F. oxysporum and showed significantly lower disease progression, than the non-grafted plants (P
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
Catalog
Discovery Service for Jio Institute Digital Library
For full access to our library's resources, please sign in.