KNUST Research Week and Scientific Conference: Empowering Researchers to Achieve Impactful Outcomes

Task scheduling in computing faces the dual challenge of fair resource allocation and thermal imbalance, which can lead to overuse of some resources, overheating, throttling, and hardware degradation. Traditional schedulers, such as First-Come First-Served (FCFS), focus on throughput but ignore fairness in load distribution and temperature, while basic Reinforcement Learning (Rl) approaches aim for adaptive thermal balance yet do not prioritize balanced load distribution. To address these limitations, this thesis proposes a cooperative game–theoretic hybrid model that integrates the Nash Bargaining Solution with Reinforcement Learning to achieve Pareto-optimal task allocations that are both fair and thermally aware. The efficacy of the model is evaluated using the Black-Scholes workload and compared against FCFS and a pure RL scheduler. Experimental results demonstrate that the hybrid scheduler achieves lower average core temperatures, reduced thermal variance, and more balanced utilization than the baseline algorithms, offering improved long-term energy efficiency and hardware longevity without sacrificing fairness

Background: Structural congenital anomalies like orofacial clefts (OFCs) occur prenatally. OFCs mostly present as cleft lip (CL), cleft palate (CP) or both, with incidence varying from 1/500 to 1/2500 births depending on human ancestral populations. Affected individuals suffer from severe feeding, speech, middle ear infections, and dental challenges. Genetics and environmental risk factors have been implicated in the aetiology of the disease. The current study deciphered the genetic architecture of twins concordant for CL and prenatal teeth.

Methods: DNA from affected twins and mother underwent whole-exome sequencing (WES) on the Illumina HiSeq platform at 100X. Bioinformatics analysis of WES data utilised the Sentione workflow. Normalised VCF files were annotated with Ensembl VEP. Variants were classified and prioritised using American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines on variant classifications. Suspected pathogenic variants for CL-prenatal teeth underwent further segregation analysis in all 13 family members using Sanger sequencing. The zygosity of the twins was computed using the Pandas package in Python 3. Clinically actionable secondary findings (SF) were ascertained using the ACMG guidelines on SFs.

Results: The two affected male twins presented with CL and prenatal teeth, though there was no family history of this. The zygosity of the twins, computed based on variant concordance rate, was 99.37%, suggesting monozygotic twins. Potentially causative variants that segregated with the disease were observed in genes such as AMER2 (c.604C>G, p.Arg202Gly), SMOC2 (c.454C>T, p.Arg152Trp), and NOTCH4 (c.1577C>T, p.Ala526Val). Variants observed in ACMG SF genes included MSH6 (c.3911G>A, p.Arg1304Lys), SCN5A (c.5549C>T, p.Ser1850Leu), TP53 (c.935C>G, p.Thr312Ser), DSG2 (c.2368C>T, p.His790Tyr), RBM20 (c.1816G>A, p.Val606Met) and RYR1 (c.13550C>T, p.Pro4517Leu).

Conclusion: Monozygotic twins concordant for rare conditions enable identification of aetiologic risk variants. This approach helps to identify causative variants for OFCs and related phenotypes, alongside clinically actionable SFs. These observations significantly impact pathophysiology, genetic counselling and personalised medicine.

Mangroves are very effective in capturing, transforming, and storing CO2 in the atmosphere
into coastal sediments for long-term carbon storage and thus plays significant role in
controlling greenhouse gas emissions and reducing atmospheric CO2 levels. Whereas studies on mangrove forests have focused on cover losses, this study delves into the carbon losses associated with mangrove losses. This knowledge is important for Ghana to effectively monitor carbon dynamics in response to changes in mangrove forest cover. This study covers the period from 2015 to 2024 with the objectives to determine the changes in mangrove cover along the Coastline of Ghana and to estimate carbon stocks associated with mangrove cover along the coastline of Ghana from 2015 to 2024. Using remote sensing and GIS approaches, change detection analysis was performed to determine the changes in mangrove forest cover along the coastline from 2015 to 2024. Total carbon stocks along the coastline of Ghana between 2015 and 2024 were estimated using the InVEST carbon model. Results from this study revealed a drastic decline in mangrove forest cover and total carbon stocks along the coasts of Ghana from 2015 to 2024. The Eastern coast of Ghana lost 2,674.05ha between 2015 and 2024, representing a 46.18% loss. The Central cost lost 35.07% of its cover, and the Western coast lost 18.84% between 2015 and 2024. These losses translate to a total loss of 1,436,170.71 Megagrams of Carbon from mangrove loss between 2015 and 2024. This development is alarming and a major challenge to Ghana’s climate change mitigation efforts. It is important that there is continuous monitoring of Ghana’s mangroves for effective climate change mitigation.
Keywords: Environmental monitoring; Carbon sequestration; climate mitigation; blue carbon

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease characterised by high blood glucose, primarily due to the body’s inability to produce enough insulin or the body’s failure to use the produced insulin. High blood glucose has been reported to suppress the type 1 interferon (IFN-1) response, an innate immune response pathway that prevents infections and cancers. However, the effect of high glucose on the nuclear translocation of IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 (ISGF3) complex required for IFN-1 response signalling is largely unknown. Thus, we investigated the effect of high glucose on the nuclear localisation of IFN regulatory factor 9 (IRF9), an essential component of the ISGF3 complex. Human hepatoma (HepG2) cells, surrogating hepatocytes, were treated without or with 1000 IU/ml recombinant human IFN-α and glucose (5.5, 25 and 100 mM) for 24 hours. The cells were fixed using 4% paraformaldehyde, permeabilised using 0.2% Triton X-100, non-specific binding sites blocked with 2% bovine serum albumin and labelled using rabbit anti-IRF9 antibody and Alexa Fluor 647-labelled donkey anti-rabbit antibody. The cytoplasm and nuclei were defined using Alexa Fluor 488-labelled wheat germ agglutinin and DAPI. Optically sectioned images were acquired using a Zeiss LSM 980 laser scanning confocal microscope with a 63X 1.4 NA objective lens. Image analysis was performed using a custom ImageJ and CellPose plugin to measure the Alexa Fluor 647 signal (IRF9 localisation) within each cell. There was a decrease in IRF9 nuclear localisation in the presence of glucose in a dose-dependent manner, which was statistically significant at 100 mM glucose (blood glucose in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus). Our results support previous studies and demonstrate for the first time the suppression of the type 1 interferon response during diabetic hyperglycaemia at the intracellular level.

Background: Within the Ghanaian Creative Arts curriculum, pronunciation of discipline-specific vocabulary is central to articulating concepts and processes with clarity. Yet, learners at Suame Methodist Basic 7 often struggle with leatherwork-related terms such as tanning, grain, and upholstery, largely due to traditional teacher-centred pedagogies that overlook auditory and visual reinforcement. This study investigates the question: To what extent can audio-visual aids (AVAs) serve as pedagogical tools to enhance pronunciation accuracy and engagement in Creative Arts instruction?

Objectives: The study sought to (1) evaluate the effectiveness of AVAs in supporting accurate articulation of leather-related terminology, and (2) examine how their integration influences learners’ engagement, confidence, and participation in Creative Arts lessons.

Methodology: Adopting a mixed-methods quasi-experimental design, the research engaged 30 Basic 7 learners through purposive sampling. Quantitative data were generated via pre- and post-tests and analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests, while qualitative insights emerged from classroom observations, learner questionnaires, and interviews. Triangulation of findings ensured reliability and depth of interpretation.

Key Findings: Quantitative analysis revealed significant improvement in pronunciation performance, with mean scores rising from 2.17 (SD = 1.23) to 8.80 (SD = 1.47) post-intervention (t(29) = 14.31, p < .001). Qualitative results highlighted increased learner confidence, heightened participation, and positive attitudes toward AVA-supported instruction. Observations confirmed that AVAs transformed pronunciation practice into an interactive, visually engaging experience aligned with the multisensory ethos of Creative Arts education.

Implications: The findings demonstrate that AVAs are not only effective linguistic tools but also vital artistic resources that embody the principles of visual communication and experiential learning. Their integration into Creative Arts pedagogy can enrich pronunciation instruction, foster multimodal engagement, and reposition pronunciation as both a linguistic and artistic practice. This study therefore underscores the pedagogical value of AVAs as bridges between visual culture and language acquisition, offering critical implications for curriculum innovation, teacher training, and policy reform in Ghanaian basic education.

Keywords: Audio-Visual Aids; Pronunciation; Creative Arts Education; Learner Engagement

Assistive technologies (ATs) that support mobility and accessibility in transport for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) remain limited, with provision often restricted to basic personal aids and little integration into public transport systems in developing countries. This gap undermines inclusive urban mobility and leaves many PwDs underserved. Against this backdrop, this study provides empirical evidence by evaluating awareness, adoption, and perceived effectiveness of AT among PwDs in Greater Kumasi, Ghana. Using a semi-structured interview guide, data were collected through in-person interviews with 100 PwDs, comprising individuals with physical, visual, hearing, and speaking impairments. Quantitative analysis employed chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests to assess associations between disability type, AT awareness, use, and perceived effectiveness, while open-ended responses were thematically analyzed to capture PwDs lived experiences. The findings show that although 72% of respondents were aware of ATs, their knowledge and use primarily centered on personal aids, such as wheelchairs, crutches, and contact lenses. Awareness of system-integrated technologies, such as low-floor buses, screen readers, and tactile paving, was minimal, indicating limited availability. Both awareness (X² = 19.5, df = 3, p < .001) and frequency of use (X² = 43.1, df = 9, p < .001) varied significantly by disability type, with physical and visual impairments associated with higher adoption rates. A Kruskal-Wallis test (X² = 21.9, df = 3, p < .001) further revealed significant variation in perceived AT effectiveness, with respondents with speech impairments reporting the lowest perceived benefit. An Assistive Technology Priority Index (ATPI) that combines the severity of accessibility challenges with AT availability and usage revealed the largest unmet needs among persons with speaking impairments (priority score = 61.32), followed by those with hearing impairments (priority score = 23.24). Needs for physical and visual disabilities (priority scores of 1.08 and 2.67, respectively) were comparatively better served. These findings highlight a disproportionate emphasis on mobility aids and a neglect of communication and sensory-support technologies. Closing these gaps is essential for achieving fair accessibility in Ghana’s transportation system and for ensuring that AT provision goes beyond physical disabilities to meet the diverse needs of all PwDs.

Locating a potential groundwater exploitation point can be challenging, especially in the Voltaian formation of Ghana. The wet well success rate in the formation using current geophysical techniques has not been encouraging; it is under 50%. Remote sensing and GIS have proven to be valuable tools in hydrological analysis and groundwater studies elsewhere. This work aims to use remote sensing and GIS to supplement ground geophysical investigations for the selection of potential sites for groundwater exploitation in the Kintampo North Municipal and Kintampo South District areas. Individual thematic maps were generated using remote sensing techniques and GIS tools and ranked based on their influence on groundwater occurrence. The thematic maps were then weighted to create a groundwater potential map of the study area. The groundwater potential zones were classified into five groups, viz. Poor, Fair, Moderate, Good, and Very Good. About 52% of the study area falls within the Poor and Fair zone, 34% within the Good and Very Good region, and the rest in the moderate zone. The potential map was validated using the spatial distribution of existing boreholes sited using ground geophysical methods and their airlift yields. A good correlation was obtained between the predicted groundwater potential zones and the borehole yields. The results suggest that GIS and Remote Sensing can be integrated with geophysical surveys to maximize the wet well success rate in the Voltaian formation in Ghana.

This study technically explores the integration of leather and jute cords in the production of interior wall hangings, with particular emphasis on features of African indigenous motifs. While Ghana’s artistic traditions are widely expressed through pottery, textiles and carvings, limited attention has been given to wall hangings décors that combine sustainable local materials with cultural symbolism, techniques of integration and design principles. Employing the qualitative research using art practice-based approach, the research examined (i) indigenous motifs suitable for adaptation into wall hanging design, (ii) the physical and aesthetic properties of leather and jute cords as sustainable materials for innovative integration into wall hangings, and (iii) experimental production of wall hangings that embody these elements. Findings reveal that both materials offer durability, ecological value, and tactile appeal; while knotting and weaving techniques enabled integration, and technical translation of cultural motifs into creative wall hangings which serve as contemporary decorative art. The integration process demonstrates how indigenous artistry can inform sustainable interior design practices, creating products that preserve heritage, foster innovation, and support artisanal livelihoods. This study contributes to discourse on cultural heritage and creative arts as vital tools for identity, empowerment, and sustainable development.

Keywords: Jute, Leather, Indigenous Motifs, Wall Hangings, Cultural Heritage, Sustainable Design,

Climate change continues to threaten the sustainability of food systems, particularly for smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. In Ghana’s Ejura Sekyedumase Municipality, these impacts are compounded by gender disparities that influence access to resources and adaptation strategies. This study employs an interdisciplinary framework grounded in Feminist Political Ecology to identify gender-just climate solutions that strengthen resilience and promote food security. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 200 household surveys, eight focus group discussions, and four key informant interviews, complemented by long-term climate trend analysis. Analytical tools included the Mann-Kendall trend test, the Relative Importance Index, Binary Logistic Regression, and thematic analysis. Findings reveal a significant rise in mean annual temperature (p < 0.05) alongside a non-significant decline in rainfall (p > 0.05), reinforcing farmers’ perceptions of early rainfall onset and increasing heat stress. Both men and women adopted on-farm measures such as crop diversification (RII = 0.398) and pesticide use (RII = 0.433), and off-farm strategies such as food rationing (RII = 0.388) and livelihood diversification (RII = 0.325). Gender emerged as a critical determinant in the adoption of indigenous knowledge and migration-based strategies. However, systemic barriers, including high seed costs (WAI = 1.970) and inadequate irrigation (WAI = 1.965), limit adaptation effectiveness. The study advocates for gender-responsive, climate-smart agricultural policies to enhance resilient and sustainable food systems in Ghana and similar contexts globally.

Antimicrobial resistance, particularly in extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria, poses a major health challenge. This study asked: Do extracts of Vernonia amygdalina and Senna siamea exhibit antibacterial, antibiofilm, and synergistic activities against ESBL-producing and other pathogenic bacteria?

Objectives: To determine phytochemical composition, antibacterial potency, synergy with ciprofloxacin, and antibiofilm activity of the extracts against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Methodology: Phytochemicals were screened by standard assays. Antibacterial activity was determined using agar well diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) tests. Synergy with ciprofloxacin was evaluated by MIC fold reduction. Biofilm eradication was measured by crystal violet staining on pre-formed biofilms to assess disruption.

Key findings: Vernonia amygdalina contained alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, triterpenoids, phytosteroids, and cardiac glycosides, while Senna siamea lacked cardiac glycosides. Among the extracts, S. siamea exhibited the strongest antibacterial effect with the highest inhibition zone (27.83 ± 3.87 mm against K. pneumoniae), whereas V. amygdalina produced 21.33 ± 4.45 mm against E. coli. MIC values ranged from 6.25 ± 0.00–33.33 ± 14.43 mg/mL for S. siamea and 12.5 ± 0.00–50.00 ± 0.00 mg/mL for V. amygdalina. Synergy testing with sub-inhibitory ciprofloxacin revealed marked modulation of extract activity, with up to a 64-fold MIC reduction for S. siamea against ESBL E. coli and an 8-fold reduction for V. amygdalina against ESBL K. pneumoniae. Extract–extract modulation showed S. siamea reduced V. amygdalina’s highest MIC by 8-fold against non-ESBL E. coli, while V. amygdalina reduced S. siamea’s MIC up to 4-fold. Both extracts inhibited biofilm formation dose-dependently, achieving >99% inhibition at 100 mg/mL.

Implications: These results demonstrate strong antibacterial, synergistic, and antibiofilm activities, supporting V. amygdalina and S. siamea as potential eco-friendly alternatives against resistant and other pathogenic bacteria.

Preferred presentation: Oral
Subtheme: Health Systems, Basic Sciences, Biomedical Advances, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Human Wellbeing

The transition to sustainable construction is critical for reducing the environmental footprint of the building sector while supporting economic growth and social well-being. In Ghana, and particularly in Tarkwa, a mining town where construction plays a central role in infrastructure and employment, the adoption of sustainable construction practices remains limited. While global studies highlight both barriers and drivers, little is known about how stakeholders in smaller, resource-dependent towns perceive, adopt, and experience green construction practices. This study investigated stakeholder adoption of sustainable construction practices in Tarkwa, focusing on awareness, motivations, perceived benefits, barriers, and recommendations for strengthening adoption in line with Sustainable Development Goal Nine (SDG 9). The study used structured questionnaires, drawing on 226 survey responses and qualitative interviews with construction stakeholders. The analysis considered demographic and organizational variables alongside stakeholder perceptions. Findings indicated a gradual uptake of sustainable practices, motivated by environmental responsibility, cost savings, and enhanced reputation. However, high initial costs, limited technical knowledge, and weak regulatory frameworks hinder wider implementation. Stakeholders also reported benefits such as improved efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and greater competitiveness. The study underscores the need for government incentives, technical training, and public–private collaboration to accelerate adoption. By focusing on Tarkwa, it provides context-specific insights for Ghana while demonstrating how localized adoption can contribute to broader sustainability goals, including SDG 9.

Keywords: Green Construction; sustainable practices; Adoption, Challenges; SDG 9; Tarkwa.

Background: Craniofacial microsomia (CFM) is the third most common congenital craniofacial anomaly after orofacial clefts (OFCs), characterised by asymmetry of the face and underdevelopment of facial structures due to defects in the first and second pharyngeal arch derivatives. Irrespective of its clinical significance, the genetic basis of CFM remains poorly understood, particularly in African populations where research is limited. This study sought to investigate the genetic architecture of CFM in a Ghanaian cohort.
Methods: Seven families, each comprising one affected proband and their unaffected parents, were recruited from the National Cleft Care Center (NCCC) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Ghana. Clinical deep whole exome sequencing (WES) was carried out at 100X, followed by variant calling using the Sentione workflow. Pedigree analysis and variant prioritisation were performed following the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines. Maternal environmental risk factors were assessed through structured questionnaires. Functional annotation, pathway enrichment, and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analyses were undertaken using g:Profiler, STRING, and Cytoscape.
Results: Multiple candidate variants were identified, including novel de novo and rare variants in PAX6, FOX4DL3, EIF3C, EIF3CL, PRDM9, RUNX1, SAMD1, and KCNMA1. Several of these genes are associated with neural crest cell (NCC) migration, cell adhesion, and craniofacial development. PPI analysis highlighted hub genes such as PRDM9, PAX6, SAMD1, and RUNX1, underscoring their potential regulatory role. Environmental exposures, including maternal folate deficiency, herbal remedy use, consanguinity, and contact with lead-containing products, were also reported, suggesting possible gene–environment interactions.
Conclusion: This study presents the first-ever genetic investigation of CFM in a Ghanaian cohort, providing novel insights into candidate genes and environmental influences. The findings highlight the importance of ancestry-specific research to improve understanding of aetiology, diagnosis, and counselling for craniofacial anomalies in underrepresented populations.

This paper examines cultural pathways as a strategy for designing walkable environments that foster exploration, engagement, and community interactions. Cultural pathways are pedestrian connections that integrate cultural, historical, and artistic elements into the urban landscape. They transform ordinary streets into lively corridors where walking becomes a meaningful cultural experience rather than a mere necessity. Through public art, heritage markers, interactive installations, and distinctive architectural features, these pathways stimulate curiosity, social interaction, and a sense of belonging. By adopting a comparative case study approach, the paper reviews global examples from cities such as Melbourne, Paris, and Berlin. These cases demonstrate how cultural pathways have been integrated into pedestrian networks through art installations, performance venues, and green areas to produce tangible impacts on urban vitality. While the examples are primarily from global north contexts, the paper suggests implications for rapidly urbanizing regions where walkability and cultural identity are increasingly critical to sustainable development. The discussion highlights walkability as extending beyond accessibility to include cultural participation, collective memory, and community gathering. Well-designed cultural corridors serve as avenues for spontaneous conversations, performances, and collective memory by addressing urban fragmentation and fostering social connectedness. The paper contributes to urban design discourse by positioning cultural pathways as a replicable framework for enhancing walkability, cultural heritage, creative expression, cohesion, innovation, human capital development, and economic resilience across diverse urban contexts.

Abstract
Lost-time injuries (LTIs) remain a significant challenge across industries, particularly in high-risk sectors such as oil and gas, construction, mining, manufacturing, and transportation. Traditional safety management approaches are largely reactive, relying on post-incident analysis and compliance, which limits their effectiveness in preventing injuries. This study investigates whether machine learning can provide a more predictive framework for mitigating LTIs. Historical operational data, including LTI reports, worker demographics, task characteristics, shift duration, equipment status, and environmental conditions, were analyzed using five regression models: Linear Regression (LR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision Tree (DT), and Gradient Boosting (GB). Model performance was assessed using the coefficient of determination (R²).
Results show that SVR outperformed all other models, achieving an R² of 99.40%, followed by GB (98.86%), DT (98.73%), and KNN (95.79%), while LR performed the weakest (78.74%). These findings confirm that LTIs are influenced by nonlinear and complex relationships that linear models fail to capture. Feature importance analysis identified prolonged shift durations, specialty maintenance tasks, and delays in equipment inspection as the strongest predictors of LTIs.
This research demonstrates the potential of machine learning to transform workplace safety management from reactive incident response to predictive prevention. By integrating these models into safety systems, industries can reduce operational downtime, improve compliance with safety regulations, and enhance field-level safety outcomes. Practical recommendations include cross-functional data integration, continuous retraining of predictive models, and adherence to industry safety standards. Overall, the study highlights machine learning as a scalable and data-driven solution for mitigating LTIs, particularly in sectors characterized by high operational risks.

Cycloaddition reactions are foundational in the synthesis of biologically and industrially relevant heterocycles, including isoxazoline and spirocyclic frameworks. However, understanding and predicting regio- and site-selectivity in these processes, especially for complex polycyclic systems, remains a significant challenge. Here, we use high-performance density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) level, combined with solvation models, to unravel the mechanistic pathways and selectivity determinants of (3 + 2) cycloaddition reactions between mesitonitrile oxide (MNO) and derivatives of 1,5-dimethyl-6-methylenetricyclo[3.2.1.0²,⁷]oct-3-en-8-one. Our computational workflow included geometry optimization, transition state validation, and intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC) mapping, supported by global electron density transfer (GEDT) and conceptual analysis of DFT indices. We demonstrate that the nature and position of substituents (e.g., methyl, hydroxyl, electron-withdrawing groups) on the polycyclic backbone critically modulate both the activation barriers and the preferred cycloaddition site. Notably, methyl and hydroxyl groups favor endocyclic addition, while certain electron-withdrawing substituents invert site-selectivity. Low GEDT values indicate a low-polarity, asynchronous mechanism, consistent with observed slow reaction rates and kinetic control, and the computed reactivity indices align with experimental selectivity trends. This study shows how advanced computational methods can rationalize complex selectivity patterns in organic synthesis, providing a blueprint for the rational design of site-selective reactions and the accelerated discovery of pharmacologically important heterocycles.

Keywords
Density functional theory, Mechanistic prediction, Reactivity indices, Computational chemistry, Isoxazoline

The contamination of water resources by toxic mercury (Hg(II)) ions poses a serious threat to ecosystems and human health, necessitating efficient and sustainable remediation strategies. In this study, magnetic CuS/Fe3O4 nanocomposites were synthesized via a green route using castor oil as a renewable solvent and stabilizer. The composites were designed to exploit the strong thiophilic affinity of copper sulfide (CuS) for mercury binding and the magnetic properties of iron oxide (Fe3O4) for easy separation. Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared by co-precipitation, followed by solvothermal decomposition of a copper diethyldithiocarbamate precursor in castor oil to form CuS and CuS/Fe3O4 nanocomposites with mass ratios of 1:1, 1:4, and 1:8. Structural and physicochemical characterization (FT-IR, XRD, SEM/EDX, TGA, NMR) confirmed the formation of crystalline nanocomposites with the intended core–shell morphology. SEM analysis revealed that CuS formed spherical nanoparticles, while Fe3O4 appeared as spherical particles with noticeable aggregation, leading to a composite structure with good surface interaction. Batch adsorption experiments revealed that the CuS/Fe3O4 (1:8) composite achieved a high performance, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 295 mg g⁻¹ at pH 8, 20 mg dosage, and 200 min contact time. Kinetic and isotherm modeling indicated that Hg(II) uptake followed a pseudo-second-order model and fit the Langmuir isotherm, suggesting chemisorption on a homogeneous surface. The nanocomposite also exhibited outstanding selectivity, removing Hg(II) quantitatively even in the presence of excess competing ions (Cd2+, Pb2+, Zn2+), and retained ~80 % efficiency after three regeneration cycles. These findings demonstrate that castor oil-mediated synthesis offers a sustainable pathway to highly efficient, selective, and magnetically recoverable CuS/Fe3O4 nanocomposites, highlighting their promise as a scalable, engineering innovation for practical mercury remediation.

A sweetpotato-based complementary food was formulated to enhance the use of locally available ingredients to address micronutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamin A deficiency in Ghana. Five complementary food blends were formulated using orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP), Bambara groundnut, and brown rice flours with the possibility to meet the nutritional requirements of infants aged 6 to 23 months in alignment with the CAC standards. A sensory evaluation was conducted, consisting of breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding mothers, to identify the most suitable blend, after which the nutritional profile and functional properties of the preferred blend was analyzed. The most preferred formulation was Formula 5 (60% OFSP, 30% Bambara groundnut, and 10% brown rice flours). It exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of protein (14.24%), fiber (4.50%), ash (2.77%), carbohydrate (73.78%), and β-carotene (541.4 mg/100g) compared to the Commercial Complementary Food (CCF), which contained 13.27%, 1.33%, 1.65%, 62.88%, and 0.21 mg/100 g, respectively. In addition, it had a higher concentration of calcium (185.3 mg/100g), iron (5.84 mg/100g), potassium (261.33 mg/100g), and magnesium (204.75 mg/100g) than the CCF (1.05, 0.99, 38.67, and 179.41 mg/100 g, respectively. The blend exhibited optimal functionality, including a water absorption capacity (WAC) of 140.95%, swelling power of 9.25 g/g, solubility index of 14.01%, and bulk density of 0.64 g/mL. The formulated sweetpotato-based complementary food demonstrated a favorable nutritional and functional profile that supports the basic dietary needs of infants aged 6 to 23 months. It provides adequate levels of protein, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, essential minerals, and β-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. These attributes align with the CAC standards for infant nutrition and have the potential to help address common micronutrient deficiencies particularly vitamin A deficiency.

Language and culture are inextricably tied. Language is a convoluted part of human existence. Where language exist, human beings exist and verse versal, with language their identity is revealed in their way of life technically known as culture. Culture comprises a wide variety of human behaviours and phenomena that cannot be attributed directly to genetic inheritance. Thus, the society is the mother of culture. Culture may be viewed in two perspectives material and social. Material culture refers to the physical products of human societies in response to the demands of the environment. The study concentrates on selected material cultural items of Akan people that have therapeutic effects on the body and mind such material culture are mortar and pestle (woma ni weduru), earthenware grinder and the short pestle (apotoware ni eta), games (aguro), and drums (dondo). The theory of epistemology is used to support the claim that a society exists in its cultural knowledge and norms, which requite the existence of the people. The study asserts that these items from their production stages to the consumers have great benefits, which range from employability, therapeutic effects physically and psychologically, interrelated coexistence and cooperation among the people. The study concludes that the uses of these material cultural items are gradually eroding away in use and usage and are subtly replaced in the contemporary time by modernity. The lexical items associated with them are gradually going into extinction, hence generations to come are not going to be aware of their therapeutic benefits and they are liable to encounter more diseases psychological ineptitude and social imbalance as the lifestyle of modernity is that of sedentary civilization.

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antileishmanial and Wound Healing Properties of Selected Medicinal Plants
( Joseph Famiyeh Eduful, Vivian Etsiapa Boamah, Nicholas Adjei Bae, Hayford Odoi, Yaw Duah Boakye, Theresa Agana, Christian Agyare)
Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana.
Email: joefameyeh8@gmail.com
Background:
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease, produces chronic skin lesions that are often slow to heal. These lesions serve as entry points for opportunistic microorganisms, leading to secondary infections that complicate treatment and delay recovery. Beyond leishmaniasis, wounds remain a pressing global health concern, intensified by aging populations, chronic conditions, and the shortage of accessible, effective therapies. Against this backdrop, medicinal plants are increasingly being explored for their wound-healing, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiparasitic potential.
Aim:
To investigate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, antileishmanial, and wound-healing properties of aqueous extracts of Chromolaena odorata, Carica papaya, Anona senegalensis, Diospyros mespiliformis, Piliostigma thoningii, and Anchomanes difformis.
Methods:
Plant materials were collected, air-dried, and extracted with water. Extracts were screened for phytochemicals and tested against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Candida albicans to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentrations (MBC/MFC), and time-kill kinetics. Antileishmanial activity was evaluated using the MTT assay, antioxidant activity by DPPH radical scavenging, and wound-healing efficacy in guinea pigs through excision wound contraction and histological assessment.
Results:
Active extracts demonstrated MIC values of 1.562–6.25 mg/mL and MBCs of 25–50 mg/mL, while weaker extracts showed higher thresholds. Antioxidant IC₅₀ values ranged from 107.2 to 246 µg/mL, and antileishmanial IC₅₀ values were 2.134–46.2 µg/mL. All extracts significantly (p<0.0001) enhanced wound contraction, supported by histological evidence of collagen formation.
Conclusion:
The findings support the traditional use of these plants for managing infections, mitigating oxidative stress, controlling leishmanial lesions, and promoting wound repair.
Keywords: Antimicrobial, Wound healing, Antileishmanial, Antioxidant

The hotel industry is an indispensable driver of Ghana’s tourism sector, contributing significantly to the national economic growth. Nonetheless, hotel buildings are resource - intensive and consumes large amount amount of energy and water as well generating a lots of waste and emissions. Globally, sustainable building practices have emerged as a strategies for curtailing the environmental impact of the hospitality facilities however, the extent of their adoption in developing economies remains unclear. The aim of this study is to asses the current state of sustainable building practices in Ghana’s hotel industry by examining the extent of adoption of sustainable practices in hotel building in Ghana, identifying the most common sustainability measures currently implemented by hotels, explore variations in sustainability adoption based on hotel category and establish a baseline of current practices that can guide policy makers, industry practitioners and researchers. A quantitative method of research was used through a questionnaire survey to hotel managers or supervisors or owners, building professionals and regulators. The study evaluates practices in areas such as energy efficiency, water management, material selection, waste management and indoor environmental quality. The findings reveals that while some sustainability measures such as energy -efficient lighting and separation of waste are adopted, measure are largely driven by cost savings motives instead of long term sustainability goals. Implementation of sustainable building practices also remains fragmented. The study provides a baseline understanding of the Ghana’s hotel sustainability practices, identifies the critical gaps and offers insight for building professionals and regulators and hoteliers to advance sustainable building transitions in the hospitality sector.

Keywords: Sustainable practices, hotel buildings, hospitality facilities,

The study was conducted primarily to explore how digital political marketing, particularly social media, influences the voting behaviour of first-time youth voters with a focus on the 2024 presidential elections in Ghana. The study targeted first-time youth voters from a selected tertiary institution within the Birim Central Municipality in the Akim-Oda Constituency. An exploratory research design was employed to help achieve the objectives of the study. The study was anchored in a qualitative approach. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Expert Interviews were used to collect data from participants. Data were collected through FGDs involving 20 first-time youth voters and 5 expert interviews with professionals in the field of political marketing and political science. The recorded data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The analysis of the data revealed
that first-time youth voters prefer to source political information from social media platforms. The data also revealed that the sourced political information translates into political knowledge, which
helps the first-timers make an electoral choice. It was discovered that social media influencers can influence the political behaviour of first-time youth voters based on how credible and trustworthy the first-time youth voters perceive them to be. The study uncovered that the unethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake political content, coupled with political misinformation and disinformation, a two-way communication deficit, and a surge in internet data prices, are
among the key challenges that first-time youth voters encountered during the 2024 presidential elections in Ghana. The study calls for the strengthening of institutions such as Ghana’s Cyber
Security Authority and Ghana Signal Bureau in terms of capacity building and policy regulatory frameworks.

Keywords: digital political marketing, social media, artificial intelligence (AI), political
misinformation, cybersecurity, first-time youth voters.

ABSTRACT
Background: Nutrigenetics explains how the genetic makeup of people affects their ability to metabolise specific nutrients, with the primary goal of enhancing health through a personalised diet. This study identifies genetic variants that may impact nutrient metabolism in families affected by orofacial clefts (OFCs).
Methods: A total of 130 case-parent trios were recruited from the National Cleft Care Centre (NCCC) at KATH. DNA was extracted from saliva and cheek swab samples. DNA quantification and other quality control checks, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) were carried out on 390 individuals. Variants from WGS data were called and filtered using the GATK workflow. In silico modelling using HOPE and PyRx molecular docking was carried out to ascertain how the implicated variants may affect the ability of these affected families to metabolise specific nutrients.
Results: Out of 50 genes studied, we observed 26 variants in 18 genes that could affect the metabolism of specific nutrients in families with OFCs. These include MTHFR (c.1535A>G; p.Tyr512Cys, c.1753G>A; p.Asp585Asn, c.1264G>A; p.Gly422Arg), MGAM (c.3538G>T; p.Gly1180Cys, c.4942T>G; p.Trp1648Gly, c.5060C>T; p.Thr1687Met, c.2188G>T; p.Ala730Ser) ABAT (c.1349G>A; p.Arg450Gln), CPT1B (c.997C>T; p.Arg33Trp), CYP2E1(c.1370A>T; p.His457Leu), CYP1A2 (c.217G>A; p.Gly73Arqurang), DMGDH (c.2261T>C; p.Phe754Ser, c.1478C>T; p.Pro493Leu), ACOX1 (c.497A>G; p.Asn166Ser), ACOX3 (c.460G>T; p.Gly154Ter), LCT (c.1658C>T; p.Thr553Ile c.5399G>A; p.Trp1800Ter), FUT6 (c.964C>T;p.Arg322Trp), APOE (c.487C>T; p.Arg163Cys), LDLR (c.1291G>A; p.Ala431Thr), PGM1 (c.572C>T; p.Ser191Leu), LPL (c.1169C>T; p.Ser390Phe), LIPC (c.1226A>C; p.Asp409Ala), G6PC2 (c.474G>A; p.Trp158Ter), and GLUD1 (c.445+350A>T). These genes play a role in the metabolism of nutrients such as vitamins (CYP1A2), homocysteine and folate (MTHFR), carbohydrate/glucose (MGAM), lipid (ACOX3), ethanol and retinoid acid (CYP2E1). In silico modelling with HOPE and molecular docking with PyRx predicted that most variants affected protein structure and function.

Conclusion: There are genetic variants that could influence how nutrients are used or metabolised in families affected by OFCs. This observation should inform personalised nutrition for the affected families.

Employee loyalty is vital for organizational success, influencing retention, productivity, and long-term growth. However, loyalty is increasingly threatened by decline in trust in management, changing workforce expectations, and high turnover. It is therefore not surprising that, issues relating to trust and loyalty and other employee and organizational outcomes needs have been widely studied and the roles of leadership style in shaping this relationship remains underexplored in developing contexts such as Ghana.
Thus, this study examines the effect of trust in management on employee loyalty, with authentic leadership as a moderating factor. Specifically, the study examines the effect of trust in management on employee loyalty; examines the effect of authentic leadership on employee loyalty; and investigate the moderating role of authentic leadership on the relationship between trust in management and employee loyalty. Guided by social `exchange theory, the study employed quantitative design. Data was collected from 215 bank employees, through structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS and Hayes Process Macro Model 1 to determine the direct effect of trust in management on employee loyalty and which extent to authentic leadership strengthens or weakens this relationship.
The study’s findings revealed that trust in management has a positive impact on employee loyalty, and authentic leadership has positive and significant relationship with employee loyalty and authentic leadership moderate the relationship between trust in management and employee loyalty. The study highlights the need for management, leaders, and policymakers to foster trust-building practices while integrating authentic leadership approaches to enhance employee commitment and retention.

In the present study, the color changes and moisture uptake of Koto (Pterygota macrocarpa K. Schum.), a pale yellow and non-durable wood, were investigated under heat treatment conditions at 160, 180, and 200 C for 3 hours under dry air conditions. The results indicated a reduction in luminance and moisture uptake as the temperature increased, which is attributed to the degradation of hemicelluloses during heat treatment resulting in an increase in carbonyl-containing species and a decrease in hydroxyl groups. The total color change (E*) of the wood surface exhibited a proportional relationship with the treatment temperature, increasing from 8.01 at 160 C to 39.50 at 200 C. This indicates that the wood specimens had assumed new colour completely. Conversely, the equilibrium moisture content of the wood significantly decreased at 200 C. Based on these findings, it is anticipated that heat-treated Koto wood could be utilized in areas where working and dimensional stability are critical, provided optimal heat treatment techniques are employed.

Background: Sutures of the human cranium remain patent postnatally to enhance cranial growth to accommodate the growing brain. Craniosynostosis ensues from the premature fusion of cranial sutures, adversely impacting brain growth. The condition has a multifactorial aetiology, with ~30% of cases being syndromic. The current study deciphered the contribution of genetic risk factors to CS aetiology in a Ghanaian cohort.

Methods: Whole exome sequencing (WES) was carried out on DNA from 14 families employing Illumina HiSeq at 100X based on GRCh38. Quality control, read alignment and variant calling were conducted utilising Sentieon workflow. Normalised VCF files were annotated using Ensembl VEP. Variants having MAF >0.01 were filtered out, and pathogenicity of variants was ascertained using 12 dbNSFP tools, with variant prioritisation using VarElect ACMG guidelines. In zebrafish functional experiments, two sets of targets and fluorescent PCR primers were designed to target exons in EPHA8. sgRNA synthesis and its injection with Cas9 mRNA into 70 single-cell zebrafish embryos followed. Embryos were profiled for CRISPR activity using real-time PCR and Sanger sequencing. The best target sgRNA and Cas9 mRNA were injected into another set of 70 embryos. Positive and negative controls were set up as well. After 5 days post-fertilisation (dpf), embryos were phenotyped using a fluorescent microscope, and CRISPR activity was assessed as stated.

Results and Discussions: WES revealed novel and de novo variants in genes such as EPHA8, CNOT2, ATP2B3, DVL3, PIEZO1, TJP2, ZEB2, EPHB3, IGFBP6, BBS9, CENPM, BCL11A, EFNA2, and ARID1B. Zebrafish crispants exhibited abnormal craniofacial bones and jaw morphology, fused and single eyes, and cyclops with disrupted faces, with over 78% of embryos being severely malformed and failing to thrive by five dpf.

Conclusions: Novel genes and genetic variants contribute to craniosynostosis aetiology among Ghanaians. Our findings are crucial for elucidating pathophysiology, genetic counselling and personalised and precision medicine.

Colonisation, globalisation, and rapid urban transitions have significantly altered the built environment of indigenous communities, often eroding their cultural identities and sustainability. While the environmental, economic, and social pillars of sustainability are well recognised, culture as a dimension of sustainability remains underexplored and largely neglected in development discourses. This research examines how acculturation influences the architecture and spatial organisation of indigenous communities, and it seeks to develop a culturally adaptive framework for sustainable development. Adopting a pragmatic paradigm and a qualitatively dominant mixed-method design, the study employs comparative case studies across six culturally distinct communities: Navarongo, Yendi, Larabanga, Kumasi, Jamestown, and Anloga, capturing Ghana’s ethnic diversity and varied architectural traditions. The data collection integrates residents, local artisans, architects, planners, and policy institutions to investigate behavioural antecedents and observations of cultural symbolism, materials, methods, and styles of construction, as well as indigenous planning and architectural logic (African “feng shui” and fractals) embedded in settlement morphology. The findings are expected to generate a context specific model for culturally sustainable architecture and planning in Ghana, with broader applicability to sub-Saharan Africa. By bridging indigenous traditions and modern sustainability imperatives, the study contributes to academic discourse, policy design and practical urban planning and architecture. Ultimately, it provided empirical evidence for embedding culture in the sustainability agenda, ensuring that spatial development pathways remain locally resonant, resilient, and inclusive.

Keywords: Sustainability, Globalisation, Culture, Built Environment, Acculturation, and Indigenous Communities.

Buildings are the backbone of urban development and one of the greatest contributors to global environmental degradation. In rapidly urbanising cities like Kumasi, Ghana, sustainable urban development is urgent. In this regard, the roof, which is most exposed to solar radiation, is a key area of intervention. Among the strategies being adopted globally is the green roof. Green roofs can improve energy efficiency, reduce operational carbon and increase thermal comfort. In Ghana, studies on the thermal performance of buildings with green roofs are lacking. This study fills that gap by using an integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental impact of green roofs as compared to concrete roofs. An Experimental Hub at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, was used as a case study to develop and validate detailed BIM models. Parametric modelling and environmental simulations were done using Rhinoceros 3D, Grasshopper, Ladybug, and Honeybee, and embodied carbon and life cycle inventory data were obtained from the Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE) and EcoInvent databases. The analysis focused on embodied carbon emissions, operational energy demand, and thermal performance under local climatic conditions. The study demonstrates reductions in annual cooling loads, lower operational carbon emissions, and improved indoor thermal comfort compared with the concrete roof. The recorded embodied carbon was 1.2 times greater in the concrete roof than in the green roof. Moreover, energy consumption was 1.23 times less in the green roofing system than in the concrete roof. The study offers empirical evidence that can be used in sustainable design practices and in policy-making to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry in Ghana. In addition, this study demonstrates the usefulness of BIM-LCA integration as a methodological approach to building performance evaluation in developing nations.

Keywords: Building Information Modelling (BIM), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Green Roofs, Embodied Carbon, Operational Carbon, Thermal Performance, Ghana.

Abstract
One of the key logs used for lithological differentiation and the analysis of facies in petroleum reservoir characterization is the Gamma Ray (GR) log, however these logs are mostly limited or incomplete especially in frontier basins. This presents a challenge in predicting lithologies for reservoir characterization and seismic to well integration. This research develops a machine learning workflow to predict a robust 3-Dimensional GR volume directly from seismic attributes using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs). The research was applied in the deepwater Tano Basin, Offshore Ghana which is a turbidite heterogenous stratigraphy with well scarcity and minimal well control.
Nine (9) vertical wells and three (3) derived attributes from Seismic data (Sweetness, Gradient Magnitude and Envelope) were used for the study. The datasets were rigorously quality controlled and normalized. A Multilayer perceptron was tested and optimized on a blind test well. High predictive performance with R2 values above 0.7 and Root Mean Square Error below 10 API. The predicted ANN GR volume accurately captured the differences in lithologies and transitions, stratigraphic boundaries and channel geometries. These observations from the predicted ANN volumes were consistent with well log responses and depositional models. Clean sand intervals were delineated from the blind well test used for independent validation. The generated GR volume enhances seismic facies identification and reservoir analysis in areas with no wells.
This methodology provides a data driven scalable basis for improved seismic interpretation and reservoir characterization enhanced by Machine learning, specifically Artificial Neural Network in deepwater frontier Basins.

Drying is a traditional preservation method that reduces moisture, thereby improving the stability of fish and minimizing physical and chemical changes during storage. In West Africa, especially in Ghana and Nigeria, smoke-drying catfish has long been practiced. However, little attention has been given to how drying conditions affect different size categories of catfish. This study investigated optimal drying time and temperature for African catfish (Clarias gariepinus).
Catfish samples from The Cottage in Kumasi were sorted into small (0.395–0.515 kg), medium (0.535–0.725 kg), and large (0.865–1.160 kg) sizes. After salt pretreatment, fish were euthanized, coiled onto trays, and smoke-dried in a charcoal-fueled kiln at 70–90°C until final moisture contents ranged between 2.446 and 2.277.
Drying required 21 hours for small, 23 hours for medium, and 24 hours for large fish. Temperature was monitored using a Raytek Ranger MX laser thermometer. A five-point hedonic scale was used for sensory evaluation, and data were analyzed with SPSS (2020).
Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in moisture content and overall acceptability across size categories. Moisture variations were attributed to water distribution in the head and flesh. Drying time differences reflected variations in initial moisture content. Sensory evaluation showed no significant differences in texture, dryness, or appearance, indicating consistent drying to panelist satisfaction. However, significant differences (p < 0.05) were noted in taste, mouthfeel, flavor, and overall acceptability.
The optimal smoke-drying conditions in a charcoal kiln are 70–90°C for 21, 23, and
24 hours for small, medium, and large catfish, respectively. Dryness and texture
were the most valued attributes, as they directly influence shelf life and resistance to spoilage.
Keywords: catfish, smoke-drying, temperature, sensory evaluation

Background: Dysregulation of the intricate molecular and cellular processes governing the formation of orofacial complex may culminate in congenital orofacial clefts (OFCs). OFCs may present as cleft lip (CL), cleft palate (CP), cleft lip and palate (CLP) and facial clefts or Tessier. The aetiology of the condition is complex, with both genetic and environmental contributions. Twins provide a great avenue to study these risk factors as they share a common intra-uterine environment during gestation. The current study utilised opposite-sex twins that were discordant for OFC phenotypes to decipher genetic risk factors.

Methods: Twelve opposite-sex twins discordant for OFCs and their parents were recruited. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was conducted on DNA from these individuals at 100X utilising the Illumina HiSeq based on GRCh38. Sentieon workflow-based bioinformatics analyses of WES datasets encompassed quality control checks, trimming of poor reads, read alignment and variant calling. Normalised variant calls were annotated using Ensembl VEP. Variant classification and prioritisation were based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. Gene expression, interactome, and pathway enrichment analyses were conducted using Mouse Genome Informatics, STRING and g:Profiler, respectively.

Results: Pathogenic variants were observed in genes implicated in craniofacial development. These included PAX7, SBDS, POMGNT2, HKDC1, FOXD4L4, SSC5D, LIMCH1, GDF11, DISP2, NOTCH3, RUNX1, LEF1, NOTCH4, FN1, AGBL3, ANK3, DVL2, FAT4, DMD, MMP8, LRP1, TSC2, HOXB7, RUNX1, EFTUD2, RFX3, FOXD4L6, FOXC2, EGFR, RBMX, CRISPLD1, ANKS6, SCN8A, MMP2, KIF15, and TBX22. These genes are enriched in various processes, including molecular (DNA-binding transcription factor activity), biological function (anatomical structure morphogenesis, cell differentiation, developmental process, epithelium, cell and skeletal development, face morphogenesis, cell adhesion), and signalling pathways (Notch signalling, Wnt B-catenin signalling, neural crest differentiation).

Conclusion: Genes involved in notch signalling, Wnt B-catenin signalling, and neural crest differentiation are risk factors for OFCs. These observations inform molecular pathology of OFCs.

Accurate prediction of reservoir fluid behavior is fundamental for efficient reservoir management and optimized hydrocarbon recovery. Traditional reservoir engineering approaches, while robust, often face challenges in capturing complex fluid dynamics and integrating diverse datasets from well testing and fluid property analysis. This research presents a hybrid artificial intelligence (AI) model that synergizes machine learning techniques with physics-based reservoir engineering principles to predict reservoir fluid behavior and performance with enhanced accuracy.
Using well testing data combined with pressure-volume-temperature (PVT) fluid property measurements, the proposed model employs advanced deep learning architectures constrained by reservoir physics to maintain physical consistency in predictions. The training dataset incorporates key reservoir fluid parameters such as viscosity, saturation, and pressure transient responses, enabling the model to dynamically forecast fluid flow characteristics and production performance metrics.
Validation against historical production data and reservoir simulation results demonstrates that the hybrid AI model not only improves prediction accuracy but also provides a practical framework for near real-time fluid behavior forecasting. The integration of explainable AI techniques allows for model interpretability, bridging the gap between conventional reservoir engineering and modern data-driven approaches.
This study contributes a novel methodology that enhances reservoir fluid characterization, supports decision-making for reservoir development, and offers a pathway for deploying AI-assisted tools in petroleum reservoir engineering.

The decline of marine biodiversity and species abundance due to human-induced pressures poses a significant threat to global ocean health and human livelihoods. This study investigates the institutional voids and governance dynamics that hinder the effective conservation of marine megafauna in coastal communities within the Western Region of Ghana. The study addresses a crucial gap in literature by moving beyond the conventional focus on Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing to examine the socioeconomic drivers and institutional factors influencing non-compliance with conservation regulations. Employing a concurrent mixed-methods research design, the study utilizes both qualitative and quantitative data. Semi-structured interviews and questionnaire with fishers, Chief fishers, fish traders, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and Fisheries Commission (FC) provided a deep understanding of governance challenges and community attitudes. This qualitative data was complemented by quantitative surveys to assess the prevalence of specific behaviours and attitudes. This methodology enabled a comprehensive analysis of the complex interplay between statutory regulations and customary practices. The findings reveal that significant institutional voids, including a lack of coordination among governance bodies, resource limitations, and a disconnect between national policies and local realities, are the primary drivers of non-compliance. Furthermore, the study identifies economic pressures as a major incentive for disregarding conservation laws. The study concludes that effective marine conservation in Ghana requires a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach that focuses on bridging institutional voids and integrating local knowledge into co-management strategies. This study contributes to the literature on institutional analysis by providing a detailed case study of a developing nation's marine conservation challenges and offers practical implications for crafting more effective and equitable conservation policies.

Introduction: Pharmaceutical effluents disposal has become problematic due to poor waste management in the pharmaceutical industry. These effluents eventually cause pollution of the water bodies which endangers human and aquatic lives. However, the effluents which are usually composed of phenolic compounds that are degraded by oxidative enzymes (laccase, lignin and manganese peroxidases) that are expressed in edible mushrooms like Pleurotus spp. On the other hand, most agricultural residues such as lignocellulosics serve as suitable substrates for cultivation of edible oyster mushrooms like P. ostreatus.
Objective: The study addressed this pollution challenge by producing oxidative enzymes from some agricultural residues such as saw dust (SD), corn cob (CC) and coconut fibre (CF) for the cultivation of oyster mushroom, P. ostreatus.
Methodology: The agricultural residues were composted for two weeks and used as substrates for the mushroom cultivation. The fruiting bodies obtained from the mushrooms were homogenized and the crude extracts purified and assayed for the oxidative enzymes like laccase (Lac), lignin peroxidase (LiP) and manganese peroxidase (MnP)
Results: The oxidative enzymes showed various levels of activities from the various agricultural residues. Lignin peroxidase activity was relatively consistent across the three substrates with slight variations. SD showed the lowest LiP activity (26.75 ± 1.47 U/L), with CF (30.40 ± 5.00 U/L) and CC (30.87 ± 3.49) showing slightly higher comparable activities. MnP activity was much higher than LiP activity across all substrates. Laccase showed the lowest activity compared to LiP and MnP.
Conclusion: The results obtained from the study showed the suitability of producing oxidative enzymes from agricultural residues with remediation potential to reduce pollution of pharmaceutical effluents.
Keywords: Bioremediation, oxidative enzymes, oyster mushrooms, lignocellulose, pollution

Background: Accessory breast tissue is a developmental abnormality characterised by extra breast tissue along the milk line. It has a prevalence of ~2-6% in humans, being more common in African and Asian ancestries, and in women. It has profound physical and psychosocial effects on affected individuals. Strikingly, research into the genetic aetiology of accessory breasts is limited, especially among Ghanaians. This research sought to decipher the genetic aetiology of bilateral accessory breasts in a Ghanaian multiplex family.
Methods: Six individuals from a multiplex family were recruited, comprising three unaffected males and three affected females. Ultrasound and histopathology were conducted to confirm the diagnosis. Whole-exome sequencing was conducted at 100X. Bioinformatics analysis utilised the Sentieon workflow and GRCh38. Called variants were annotated with Ensembl VEP, followed by filtering out variants with MAF > 0.01. Subsequently, pathogenicity of variants was deduced using ACMG guidelines. This included employing 12 tools in dbNSFP and VarElect.
Results: Ultrasound examination was suggestive of bilateral accessory breasts. Histopathology of the accessory breast tissues showed breast lobules and ductal structures with areas of fibrous tissue with no atypia. After segregation analysis and examining the inheritance pattern, 12 candidate genes (PRSS50, SLC7A7, NDE1, DIP2B, ADGRG6, CHDH, OR2W1, FANCC, ACKR2, OR4Q3, MYO1H) were selected. From the 12 candidate genes selected, PRSS50 and FANCC genes have been implicated in breast diseases. FANCC is a DNA repair protein that participates in post-replication repair and serves as a cell cycle checkpoint function – this gene has been associated with hereditary breast and ovarian disease. It is also implicated in DNA repair pathways, being regulated by the tumour suppressor gene TP53, and is co-expressed with the BRCA1 gene.
Conclusion: Two dominant frameshift variants in FANCC are causal for familial accessory breasts. This observation is crucial for genetic counselling, molecular diagnostics and pathophysiology of the condition.

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major public health concern in Ghana, where prevalence is high despite the availability of an effective vaccine. Informal sector workers represent a large proportion of the national workforce but have limited access to preventive health services. This study assessed hepatitis B vaccination coverage and its predictors among informal sector workers in Kejetia market, Kumasi, Ghana.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 809 market workers selected using stratified random sampling across different occupational groups. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires covering sociodemographic characteristics, HBV awareness and knowledge, and vaccination history. Vaccination uptake was categorized as at least one dose (≥1) and full coverage (≥3 doses). Logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of vaccination uptake.
Results: Overall, only 16.9% had completed the three-dose schedule, though 31.6% of participants reported having received at least one dose of HBV vaccine. While 88.8% of respondents had heard of HBV infection, 76.5% reported very little or no knowledge about the disease, and 49.7% did not know its routes of transmission. Vaccination uptake was significantly higher among those who had received HBV-related health education (62.7%) compared to those who had not (15.3%, p < 0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model, ≤ 30 years (aOR = 2.209, 95% CI [1.140-4.282], p =0.019), no education (aOR = 2.194, 95% CI [1.175-4.095], p =0.014), and basic education (aOR = 2.455, 95% CI [1.019-5.914], p =0.045) were the independent predictors of vaccination status.
Conclusion: HBV vaccination coverage among informal sector workers in Kejetia Market is alarmingly low despite high general awareness of the infection. Sociodemographic factors and receipt of HBV-related health education strongly influenced uptake. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted health education and subsidized vaccination programs tailored to informal sector workers in Ghana to achieve national HBV elimination goals.
Keywords: Hepatitis B infection, Ghana, Market, Vaccination, Health Education, Public Health

Background: A complex interplay of environmental and dietary exposures shapes child cognition and growth. While nutritional status is often assumed to mediate these effects, evidence on the relative importance of direct versus indirect pathways remains limited.

Objective: This study examined the direct and indirect relationships between climate exposures, dietary patterns, and child cognition and growth outcomes, focusing on the role of anthropometric indicators.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study of 110 infants aged 6-23 months in the East Mamprusi Municipality assessed socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometry, and food frequency using standard procedures: cognition and other developmental milestones were examined using the Caregiver-Reported Early Development Index. The study employed solar flux and meteorological datasets, including temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, and radiation indices, from Janga, Ghana, using a Campbell Scientific CR6 datalogger installed during the WASCAL (WRAP 2.0) CONCERT project. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to estimate direct and indirect pathways between climate, diet, growth, and cognition.

Key Findings: Overall, the prevalence of stunting was 41.8%, underweight 19.1%, and wasting 17.2% while 88.2% experienced food insecurity. Five dietary patterns emerged. Elevated ambient temperature was negatively associated with cognition (β = -0.20, p < 0.001), while shortwave radiation predicted lower WHZ (β = -0.008, p = 0.021). Among dietary patterns, the milk- and formula-based diet was positively associated with cognition (β = 0.329, p = 0.023) and HAZ (β = 0.322, p = 0.017). A plant-based diet also strongly predicted higher cognition (β = 0.741, p < 0.001) and HAZ scores (β = 0.676, p = 0.005). The Cereal, Drink and Light meals pattern improved WAZ (β = 0.371, p = 0.020) and WHZ (β = 0.813, p = 0.003), while the Breast milk–dominant pattern enhanced cognition (β = 0.251, p = 0.043) and weight outcomes (p < 0.05). No significant indirect effects through growth indicators were found.

Implications: Climate exposures and dietary patterns directly effected child cognition and growth, while anthropometric indicators did not mediate these associations. Interventions should address environmental and dietary determinants directly, rather than assuming pathways operate solely through growth.

Keywords: Climate exposure, Cognition, malnutrition, underweight, Ghana, Structural Equation Modelling

Elmina is an ancient coastal town in Ghana's central region. It faces challenges common to many African slums, including inadequate housing, poor sanitation, limited water supply, and socio-economic neglect. These vulnerabilities are intensified by its coastal setting and by its heavy dependence on small-scale fisheries. This makes Elmina a critical site for exploring climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure. This study applies ecosystem thinking, a holistic framework that emphasizes the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental systems. The goal is to develop integrated solutions for Elmina’s slum communities, including Terterkessim, Ayisa, and Old Town. Using a mixed-method approach, the study combines interviews with local leaders, municipal officials, and professionals, alongside resident surveys. The findings reveal interconnected crises: severe overcrowding, structurally compromised housing, poor sanitation, dependence on marine resources for livelihoods, and heightened exposure to erosion and storm surges. To address these challenges, the study proposes a Sustainable Slum Infrastructure Ecosystem Model (SS-IEM). The model is built on five interconnected components: (1) climate-resilient housing, (2) decentralized water and sanitation systems, (3) natural storm buffers through mangrove restoration, (4) livelihood-integrated spatial planning, and (5) participatory governance frameworks. It highlights how infrastructure, ecosystem, and social systems interact. The model also aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 6, 11, and 13. The findings show residents strongly support resilient infrastructure when participatory processes respect cultural heritage and community priorities. The SS-IEM demonstrates how systems thinking, local innovation, and inclusive governance can drive sustainable transformation in Elmina. It also provides transferable lessons for coastal slum upgrading across Africa.
Keywords: Sustainable infrastructure, ecosystem thinking, slum upgrading, coastal resilience, participatory planning, Ghana.

Background: Malaria and iron deficiency (ID) are major public health problems in Ghana, especially among children under five years. Iron is an essential micronutrient required during childhood development. Though ID is detrimental, it could also be a protective state against severe Plasmodium falciparum infection, as parasites need host iron for oogenesis. Thus, it is important to determine the relationship between these conditions for efficient management. This study investigated the hypothesis that iron deficient children under 5 are at a reduced risk of severe malaria infection.
Objectives: compare iron profile biomarkers between malaria-infected and uninfected groups; determine plasmodium parasitaemia in malaria-infected children and correlate levels of parasitaemia to iron biomarkers; determine threshold levels of host iron and the associated risk of severe malaria infection.
Methodology: This case-control study took place within three hospitals across northern Ghana. 182 children aged 6-59 months were recruited by purposive sampling; 87 cases and 95 controls. FBCs were measured and iron biomarkers determined by ELISA technique. Parasite densities were calculated and related to the iron biomarkers.
Key findings: malaria severity was significantly associated with ID (P<0.05). Serum iron was lower in the cases than controls. Ferritin predicted severe malaria infection without adjustment. Serum iron and TSAT levels decreased with increasing parasitemia while ferritin and TIBC levels increased with increasing parasitemia. Participation in SMC and the presence of fever varied significantly between the cases and controls. Clinical and socioeconomic factors assessed had no significant association with iron status (P>0.05).
Implications: malaria infection caused depleted serum iron with high iron stores, reflecting functional iron deficiency anaemia in participants. Children in endemic regions are more prone to the effects of malarial anaemia and being iron deficient does not protect children from severe forms of malaria. Thus, mass iron supplementation is safe among iron deficient children within malaria-endemic zones.

Mosquito borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika virus and chikungunya impose a disproportionate heavy public health burden in Africa. While adult mosquitoes which are vectors of these diseases are widely studied, there is a persistent neglect in the developmental stages of the mosquitoes. Yet, these early stages are critical since vector control strategies often target larvae and pupae to break the transmission cycle before mosquitoes mature into biting adults. Moreover, the identification of these specimens is prone to human error by experts due to the striking similarity in morphological features between larval and pupal stages across species. This limitation not only slows down surveillance efforts but also increases the risk of misclassification, which can compromise vector control interventions. In response, we present an Africa-based curated dataset of the larval and pupal stages of Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex species, alongside non-mosquito specimens with similar morphology. This directly addresses the African dataset representation gap in global repositories and uniquely contributes to pupal-stage classification, which remains highly underrepresented in most classification tasks. We present MosqMixerNet, a lightweight deep learning model tailored for image-based classification of mosquito early-stages. The proposed MosqMixerNet balances compactness and accuracy with only 169,666 trainable parameters and was benchmarked against MobileNetV2, DenseNet121, and NASNetMobile. On genus level identification with a non-mosquito class, it reached 99.37% accuracy, outperforming NASNetMobile at 97.30%, MobileNetV2 at 97.26%, and DenseNet121 at 80.36%. The work advances computer vision for public health and tropical disease control, and provides a foundation for integration into digital vector monitoring platforms in endemic settings.

ABSTRACT
Background:
Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are common congenital malformations often complicated by adverse drug reactions (ADRs), highlighting the importance of pharmacogenomic insights. Genetic variation in drug-metabolising and transporting enzymes may underlie variable drug responses in affected populations. This study investigated rare pathogenic variants in pharmacogenes among OFC case-parent trios from sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods:
A total of 130 families with OFCs from Ghana and Nigeria were recruited. DNA was extracted from saliva and cheek swab samples and quantified using a Qubit fluorometer. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) produced 390 datasets from 130 case-parent trios. Variant calling was performed using the GATK workflow, with annotation and prioritisation via multiple bioinformatics tools. Structural impacts of variants were assessed using HOPE in-silico modelling, and drug-binding effects were evaluated with PyRx molecular docking.

Results:
Pathogenic variants were detected in CYP1A2, CYP2C18, CYP27A1, CYP2B6, SLC6A2, and ABCC3. HOPE analysis showed that mutations disrupted conserved domains, altering protein properties and function. PyRx docking revealed changes in drug-binding affinity, with some mutations enhancing and others reducing interactions. These variants were linked to metabolism of widely used drugs, including ketoconazole, carbamazepine, efavirenz, nevirapine, artemether, acetaminophen, and chloramphenicol. The results suggest a genetic basis for ADRs in African OFC populations and underscore the clinical importance of pharmacogenetic variation.

Conclusion:
We identified novel and known pathogenic variants in pharmacogenes from OFC case-parent trios in sub-Saharan Africa. These findings provide new pharmacogenomic insights into ADRs, support the need for genetic screening, and lay a foundation for implementing precision medicine in African clinical practice.

Climate change poses significant challenges to the built environment, particularly in tropical regions such as Ghana, where rising temperatures threaten the thermal performance and energy efficiency of office buildings. This study investigated the thermal performance of office buildings in Kumasi under future climatic data. The performance of the building is analyzed for both current and projected future climate data and mitigation strategies are further explored. This was done using climate models and building performance simulation tools to project future climatic conditions of 2050 and 2080 from current ones. This study applied the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways 1-2.6 scenario to make its future climatic projections. An existing office complex was developed into a parametric simulation model using Rhinoceros 3D-Grasshopper and validated against measured energy data. In assessing the walling material performance, rammed earth and timber walls were considered with the conventional sandcrete blocks. In 2050, the predicted mean vote (PMV) percentile values range from 0.46 in August to 0.73 in February with minimal variations occurring in 2080 as they range from 0.49 to 0.77. For future projections, the alternative materials reduced cooling demand by 15–20%, lowered PPD by up to 20%, and maintained PMV values within or closer to the neutral comfort range, highlighting the need for passive design measures and considerations to adopt alternative walling materials to improve energy efficiency and enhance occupant comfort. The findings highlight the need for passive design strategies, material innovation, and climate-responsive planning to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable office building design in Ghana. This study contributes to the discourse on climate adaptation in the built environment and supports policy development toward energy-efficient construction practices.

Keywords: Climate change, Thermal performance, Passive design, Energy efficiency, Simulation.

Introduction: This retrospective study estimated the survival patterns and mortality predictors among burn patients admitted to Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana, where burn-related mortality remains high due to challenges in providing comprehensive care.

Methods: Data from 457 burn patients admitted from January 2021 to December 2023 were extracted from the Lightwave Health Information Management System. Descriptive analyses were conducted for continuous and categorical variables. Survival probabilities were estimated using Lifetable and Kaplan-Meier analyses, while Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to identify mortality predictors. Hazard ratios (HR) were used to estimate mortality risk with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and a p-value of 0.05 to express the association between significant predictors and the treatment outcome (mortality). Data analysis was performed in Stata/SE Version 17.0.

Results: Diagnoses of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) and inhalation injury as well as mechanical ventilation usage were associated with lower survival probabilities. Mortality risk increased with larger total body surface area (TBSA) burned (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.04-1.06), full-thickness burns (aHR = 4.86, 95% CI: 2.70-8.74), and inhalation injury (aHR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.05-2.61). Conversely, hemo-transfusion (aHR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.31-0.79) and surgical intervention (aHR = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.06-0.37) were associated with improved survival.

Conclusion: TBSA burned, full-thickness burns, and inhalation injuries significantly predicted increased mortality risk, while hemo-transfusion and surgical interventions were associated with improved survival. The findings of this study suggest that early surgical intervention significantly improved survival outcomes.

Keywords: Burns; Injury; Survival analysis; Cox proportional hazard; Mortality; Predictors.

Abstract
This paper explores the link between midwifery tutors’ competency in comprehensive abortion care (CAC) and their attitude toward teaching CAC in Ghana. This study was motivated by the fact that although Ghana recognised that unsafe abortion is the second highest contributor to the country’s maternal mortality ratio and adopted Comprehensive Abortion Care (CAC) with its operational protocols included in Ghana national reproductive health policy including the curriculum of midwifery education to contain the menace, the progress has been slow. In this vein, training of pre-service healthcare professionals (nurses and midwives) should comprehensively articulate the skills in handling comprehensive abortion complications. However, many of these nurses including the midwives tend to develop the skills when in actual practice. Some studies have attributed this to midwifery tutors’ attitude toward CAC especially in Ghana where the society strongly frown over abortion and abortion related services. In view of this, this study seeks to explore how midwifery tutors’ attitude could be improved through enhanced competencies in CAC. The paper used quantitative approach and survey design to conduct the study. The data were collected through questionnaire administration. The unit of analysis is the midwifery tutors and they were selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. A sample size of 311 was used for the investigation. Competency in CAC was assessed on abortion decision support (ADS), abortion laws, basic abortion procedures, Values Clarification and Attitude Transformation (VCAT), and post abortion care (PAC) while attitude was also measured as a construct on a 5-point items. It was found that all the five competency areas have a positive influence on attitude. However, competency in VCAT, PAC and ADS exhibited the strongest positive influence on midwifery tutors’ attitude. It is suggested that regular continuous professional development and in-service training in the competency areas of CAC should be integrated part of the efforts in improving the attitude toward CAC in Ghana.

The shift of Agro-food hubs towards a circular economy requires technology that optimises resources, reduces waste, and promotes sustainability. Digital twinning creates virtual replicas through simulations and real-time monitoring to facilitate synergies among various value-chain actors. This fosters industrial symbiosis and strengthens local circular ecosystems. The purpose of this research is to explore how the adoption of digital twinning can address resource inefficiency, poor traceability, and improve product valorization by advancing circularity in agro-food hubs. In conducting this research, existing literature and case studies relevant to this field, together with policy documents, will be reviewed to synthesize these findings into a context-based conceptual framework. Thus, the integration of digital twinning technologies can reposition agro-food hubs as innovation centres that drive economic competitiveness, sustainability, and social well-being.

Mosquito-borne diseases remain a pressing global health challenge, particularly in regions where effective surveillance and control of vector populations are limited. Accurate and timely identification of mosquito genera is essential for designing targeted interventions, as species such as Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex are responsible for transmitting life-threatening diseases including malaria, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika. Early and precise detection of these vectors is critical for breaking transmission cycles, guiding vector control programs, and reducing disease burden in vulnerable communities. This study presents a deep learning-based object detection framework employing YOLOv5 to detect and classify the three major mosquito genera alongside non-mosquito classes. An image dataset was developed from open-source repositories and augmented to improve model robustness. The trained YOLOv5s model achieved excellent performance, with mAP@0.5 of 0.993 and mAP@0.5:0.95 of 0.654, demonstrating both high detection accuracy and strong generalization across IoU thresholds. The model maintained a detection confidence range of 66% to 92% and proved lightweight, with 7 million parameters and 15.8 GFLOPs. By enabling reliable real-time mosquito identification, this approach supports improved public health decision-making, enhances early warning systems, and provides a cost-effective solution for vector surveillance in resource-limited settings. These results highlight the model’s potential for deployment on mobile and IoT devices to strengthen vector monitoring and contribute to global efforts in reducing mosquito-borne disease transmission.

This paper presents the design and validation of an integrated framework to enhance organizational digital forensic readiness through the application of artificial intelligence / machine learning. Motivated by the increasing volume, the variety of log and analytics data in modern IT settings, as well as the ongoing deficiencies in proactive evidence gathering. The study formulates a Design Science Research approach to develop a practical, standards aligned artifact. The framework combines a streaming data ingestion pipeline, robust preprocessing and feature extraction, a hybrid AI/ML analysis layer that couples unsupervised anomaly detection with supervised event classification, graph-based evidence correlation engine and tamper evident integrity controls. Also, an investigator interface that surfaces explainable model outputs. Prototype implementations and controlled simulations demonstrate that the integrated system improves detection sensitivity while maintaining precision, accelerates timeline reconstruction and materially reduces time to assemble verifiable evidence. Key contributions include; the hybrid algorithmic design that balances novel anomaly discovery with labeled classification, the operationalization of provenance and cryptographic integrity within an automated pipeline. The empirical evidence of improved investigator efficiency in testbed scenarios. The paper discusses methodological choices, evaluation metrics, practitioner feedback and limitations. It outlines directions for scaling, domain adaptation and responsible deployment. By bridging analytic automation and forensic practice, the proposed framework offers both theoretical advancement in forensic readiness research and a pragmatic pathway for organizations seeking to strengthen their incident preparedness and response capabilities.

Odor from untreated industrial effluent presents serious environmental and public health threats. This study investigated P-32 Powdered Activated Carbon’s (PAC) potential in deodorizing untreated effluent from Kumasi Abattoir Ghana (KAG) and comparing its cost-effectiveness to traditional dilution method through cost analysis (CA). Odor quantification was performed using sensory evaluations following APHA 2150 B standards. Batch adsorption test applied incremental doses (12.5 – 100 g/L) of P-32 PAC, with assessors rating odor intensity. Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) assessed consistency in assessors’ rating. A mixed-effect linear model (MLM) assessed dose-response relationships, while Spearman’s (ρ) test rank test measured monotonic trends. Cubic polynomial (CPM), exponential decay (EDM), and modified EDM (mEDM), evaluated using Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC), predicted optimal dose required to achieve environmental compliance. The findings revealed a threshold odor number (TON) of 143, signaling odor-intense effluent warranting treatment. Applying incremental masses of P-32 PAC exhibited a strong monotonic decline (ρ = -0.94, p-value = 0.00) in odor intensity suggesting a dose-dependent relationship. MLM showed significant (p = 0.00) odor reduction from the baseline (10) to 1.83 at 100 g/L, an 82% reduction. ICC showed excellent reliability (ICC,1 = 91%; ICC,k = 99%). CPM exhibited predictive superiority with the lowest AIC (-9.60) and BIC (-9.01), estimating an optimal dose of 115 g/L with a narrow prediction interval (107 - 150 g/L). Beyond odor removal, the adsorbent offers co-benefits including removal of non-target contaminants, improved effluent quality and ecological safety. Economically, P-32 PAC presents the lowest annualized daily treatment cost (USD 433.28) compared to dilution (USD 60,046.46), while recovering 8.87 billion L of water annually. The study concludes that P-32 PAC, a locally engineered bio-based adsorbent, provides a replicable, low-cost and high-impact solution for odor remediation and offers meaningful contributions to environmental policy reform and protection.

Abstract
Ensuring good dietary habits has been associated with better academic performance and cognitive outcomes. Female nursing students are often faced with dietary challenges due to academic stress, financial constraints, and the limited availability of healthy foods, which significantly affects their nutritional status. This study investigated the influence of dietary habits on the nutritional status of female nursing students at the 37 Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Ghana. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on dietary habits, nutritional knowledge, food choice determinants, and challenges from 397 students. Nutritional status was assessed using BMI, and chi-squared tests with multinomial logistic regression were applied (p < 0.05). Findings showed that 50% of students had a healthy weight, 28% were overweight, 15% were obese, and 7% were underweight. Although 71% demonstrated adequate nutritional knowledge, no significant association was found between knowledge and BMI, nor between BMI and source of information, accommodation status, or dietary choice determinants. Economic factors (32%), taste and preference (32%), and social influences (23.4%) were the major drivers of food choices. Regression analysis indicated that frequent intake of whole grains (OR = 4.1, p = 0.014), protein-rich meals (OR = 0.34, p = 0.021), and homemade meals (OR = 0.3, p = 0.001) significantly reduced the odds of being overweight, while daily protein intake lowered the risk of being underweight (OR = 3.14, p = 0.044). Reported barriers to healthy eating included lack of time due to academic workload and financial constraints. Overall, despite adequate nutritional knowledge, students’ dietary habits were more strongly influenced by financial limitations, limited access to healthy foods, and academic stress. The findings highlight the need for interventions such as affordable access to healthy foods, nutrition counseling, and supportive campus food policies to promote better dietary habits, improve nutritional well-being, and ultimately enhance academic performance among female nursing students.
KEYWORDS: Dietary habits, Nutritional status, female, nursing students.

ABSTRACT
Background
Due to public health and environmental concerns, controlling genotoxic impurities in pharmaceutical products is a regulatory requirement. Mass spectrometry (MS) is an analytical technique that can identify and quantify these impurities even in very small quantities due to their sensitivity, resolution, and accuracy.
Objectives
This systematic review therefore seeks to examine the mass spectrometric methods used to detect genotoxic impurities in pharmaceutical products to provide an array of validated MS procedures that can strengthen the monitoring and control of these potentially carcinogenic substances in pharmaceuticals.
Methodology
We searched online database published between 2008 and 2025. The results were reported according to the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines.
Key Findings
Ninety-seven (97%) reported using liquid-liquid extraction, 64% used liquid chromatography, while 35% used gas chromatography. Most papers used electrospray ionization (50%) and electron impact ionization (33%) techniques. Specifically, 37% and 58% used quadrupole or triple quadrupole mass analyzers, respectively, accounting for 95% of the studies reported in this review.In this review article, the genotoxic impurities identified include class 1, 2 and 3 without any impurities from class 4 and 5. Nitrosamines were the predominant class 1 reported by 33 out of the 44 articles. The levels of nitrosamines reported were in the range of 0.00869 - 68.8 ppm for N-Nitrosodimethylamine and 0.00623 - 0.157 ppm for N-Nitrosodiethylamine, which were outside the acceptable limit of not more than 0.12 ppm and 0.082 ppm, respectively. The levels of class 2 genotoxic impurities ranged between 0.5 – 37.5 ppm. The levels of class 3 impurities were not reported in these articles.
Implications
The exposure to high levels of nitrosamines in medicines (e.g., losartan and metformin) used for managing chronic diseases poses a serious public health risk, and there is therefore a need for stringent monitoring and regulation.

Children thrive when they are given the space to explore, imagine, and learn through play. Yet, in cities like Tema, Ghana, these spaces are disappearing or failing to meet the developmental needs of the children they serve. This study explores how parks, when thoughtfully designed, can become powerful tools for nurturing creativity and learning in children. By integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) principles into park design, the research aims to reimagine urban play spaces not just as areas of recreation, but as environments for curiosity, experimentation, and discovery. Through a blend of literature reviews, case studies of educational parks around the world, interviews with parents, educators, and local authorities, as well as observations of existing parks in Tema, the study reveals a shared concern: most current park facilities are underdeveloped, underused, or disconnected from children's real learning needs. Moreover, many in the community remain unaware of the important link between play and holistic child development. In response, this research proposes a design framework for a STEAM-themed park tailored to the Ghanaian context, a space where learning feels like play, and play leads to growth. Beyond theory, the framework offers design strategies for policymakers, planners, architects and educators committed to shaping cities that invest in children. By focusing on Tema, this project contributes to a broader conversation about child-friendly urban design in Africa and sets a precedent for future innovation in public space development.

Keywords: Parks, Children, Creativity, STEAM, Learning through Play, Tema, Urban Design

Background: Widowhood is a significant psychosocial stressor linked to adverse health outcomes, yet its causal impact on cognitive ageing remains underexplored in sub-Saharan Africa. Most existing studies are cross-sectional and prone to bias. We applied a target trial emulation framework to rigorously evaluate the effect of widowhood on cognitive decline among older adults in Ghana.
Methods: We analysed data from the WHO Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health (SAGE) Ghana, Waves 1 (2007–2010) and 2 (2014–2015). Eligible participants were married/cohabiting adults aged 50 years or older with complete marital status and cognitive data at both waves. The exposure was marital transition (married → widowed) versus remaining married. The outcome was a change in a standardised composite cognitive score (memory, verbal fluency, digit span). Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) balanced baseline covariates, including age, sex, education, wealth, depression, social engagement, and baseline cognition. Weighted linear regression was used to estimate the average treatment effect (ATE), with sensitivity and subgroup analyses conducted to test robustness.
Results: Of 816 participants, 104 (12.8%) transitioned to widowhood during follow-up. Compared with those who remained married, widowed participants experienced significantly greater cognitive decline (IPTW β = –1.55; 95% CI: –2.55, –0.55; p = 0.002). Findings were consistent in sensitivity analyses. Subgroup effects were stronger among men, participants aged 50–59 years, those without formal education, the physically inactive, and individuals in the highest wealth quintile.
Conclusion: Widowhood accelerates cognitive decline in older Ghanaians, with vulnerability varying by sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. These findings highlight widowhood as a determinant of healthy ageing in sub-Saharan Africa and demonstrate the value of target trial emulation for causal inference.

Background: Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are the most common congenital craniofacial defect. Its aetiology involves genetic and environmental risk factors and their interactions. Significantly, the incidence of OFCs varies by human ancestry. The transatlantic slave trade and high migration rate have increased interactions and admixture of genomes across populations. However, few studies have explored ancestry-specific and enriched OFC aetiologic loci in the context of haplotypes. This pioneering study aimed to estimate the genetic ancestry and population structure of affected families to inform ancestry-specific risk factors.

Methods: DNA was extracted from saliva and cheek swab samples collected from 103 case-parent trios and subjected to whole genome sequencing (WGS) to obtain 309 genome sequences. Variant calling and annotation were performed using the GATK workflow. WGS data were harmonised and combined with an integrated reference panel comprising 1000 Genomes Project and Human Genome Diversity Project. GCTA software was used to perform principal component analysis (PCA) to assess the population structure, while patterns of ancestry and admixture were characterised using ADMIXTURE software to estimate the proportions of ancestry of the Ghanaian cohort. Haplotypes were reconstructed using SHAPEIT5 and haplotype blocks estimated with PLINK 1.9.

Results: Population structure in the Ghanaian cohort reflected geography, with northern and southern ethnic groups clustering separately. PCA showed Ghanaians were more genetically similar to African Americans in the US and African Caribbeans than Nigerians. Admixture analysis also revealed three main African-specific ancestries in the Ghanaian cohort, with one ancestry dominating across all the ethnic groups. Haplotype reconstruction and local ancestry analyses are underway to identify Ghanaian- and ethnic-specific haplotypes and ancestry enriched in aetiologic loci for OFCs.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates, for the first time in the Ghanaian population, that population structure is aligned with ethnicity. We look forward to identifying ancestry-enriched aetiologic loci for OFCs among Ghanaians.

Purpose: In several countries, invasive aquatic plants (IAP) have plagued most river systems, limiting their utilization. However, there is limited information on the conversion of this significant feedstock to biochar with agricultural value. Consequently, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of biochar from IAP (Arthropteris orientalis), its co-compost and mixtures on soil physicochemical properties and maize yields in Ghana in three consecutive cropping seasons. Methods: Experimental plots were treated with biochar at 2.5 t ha-1 (B2.5) and 5 t ha-1 (B5), co-composted biochar at 2 t ha-1 (CCB2) and 4 t ha-1 (CCB4), B2.5+CCB2, NPK fertilizer at 100%, B2.5+50%NPK, CCB2+50%NPK, and control in a randomised block design replicated three times. Results: Biochar and co-composted biochar significantly enhanced soil nitrogen, organic carbon, exchangeable cations, porosity, and maize yields. Across the three cropping seasons, CCB4 increased maize grain yield up to 125%. Levels of NO3--N and NH4+-N increased from 21 to 42 days after amendment (DAA) application, then declined at 63 DAA. However, the B2.5+CCB2 and NPK50%+B2.5 treatments generally caused a significant increase in NO3--N and NH4+-N at 63 DAA compared to the other treatments. The B5 treatment considerably decreased soil bulk density while enhancing soil porosity and water content. Principal component analysis revealed that soil organic carbon, pH, NO3--N, soil water content and bulk density were strongly linked with soil fertility and maize productivity under biochar amendments. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that CCB4 and B2.5+CCB2 are the most effective soil amendments for improving maize yields after two application seasons.

Mosquito-borne diseases remain a major global health threat, underscoring the need for effective surveillance tools for species identification and activity monitoring. We present a Mosquito-Tracker which is an IoT enabled, AI-driven bioacoustic and climate monitoring system for real-time mosquito surveillance. The device is built using low-cost hardware suite such as microcontroller, GSM/GPS, microphone, and temperature-humidity sensors. It simultaneously records mosquito wingbeat sounds and environmental data from targeted locations, tagging each recording with GPS coordinates. Data are stored locally but can also be transmitted to a cloud storage platform via Wi-Fi. Mosquito classification is performed using a custom deep learning model trained on wingbeat audio signals. The system classifies mosquitoes by genus, gender, and age group across three primary genera, Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles, as well as a “not-mosquito” class, achieving 92% classification accuracy. By combining wingbeat acoustics with environmental data, the Mosquito-Tracker allows precise surveillance and enables correlation of mosquito activity with environmental conditions. This approach supports early outbreak detection, enhances predictive models of mosquito-borne disease risk, and informs targeted intervention strategies.

Market infrastructure is central to the socio-economic and cultural life of African cities, however, redevelopment initiatives most often than not prioritize the glitz and glamour of physical transformation over the lived experiences and behavioural patterns of market users. This systematic literature review examines how post-occupancy evaluation (POE) and user behaviour analysis have been applied to redeveloped market infrastructure across Africa from 2014 to 2024. Employing the PRISMA 2020 framework, the review identified and synthesized findings from 15 peer-reviewed studies on 20 case studies, with a focus on user satisfaction, architectural interventions, spatial adaptability, and socio-economic impacts. The analysis reveals a strong reliance on subjective assessment methods such as interviews and questionnaires while objective environmental and spatial performance measures remain underutilized. Key challenges identified include persistent thermal discomfort, circulation inefficiencies, and the erosion of socio-cultural practices in redeveloped markets. State-led redevelopment models dominate, often resulting in spatial and economic exclusion of vulnerable user groups. The review highlights significant methodological gaps, particularly the limited integration of participatory and objective POE tools, and calls for a more user-centred, context-sensitive approach to market redevelopment. By consolidating fragmented research and mapping current practices, this paper provides a framework to guide future urban market transformations that are both sustainable and responsive to the needs of African market communities.
Keywords: User Behaviour, Post-Occupancy Evaluation, Market Infrastructure, African Urban Markets

The overuse of antibacterial agents in human and veterinary medicine has led to reduced effectiveness, and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a global health threat. While high-income countries have established robust antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance systems, low- and middle-income countries, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa, face significant gaps in monitoring. Coinfections with neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) further complicate this challenge.
This project aims to strengthen AMR and NTD management across seven sub-Saharan countries by enhancing local capacity to identify key transmission pathways. Using a One Health approach, researchers from eight participating countries are investigating AMR linkages between humans, animals, and the environment. This includes sampling from various sectors, screening for extended-spectrum β-lactamases producing E. coli (ESBL-EC) as well as Carbapenem-resistant E. coli (CREC) and Salmonella. The additional evaluation of hygienic practices will lead to the development of guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs), which will be made accessible via a mobile application.

Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) of 80 human isolates identified ESBL-EC (58%), CREC (4%), and Salmonella (0%). Among 165 chicken cecal samples, ESBL-EC (87%), CREC (1%), and Salmonella (6%) positive samples were detected. In 70 cattle cecal samples, ESBL-EC (71%), CREC (1%), and Salmonella (7%) positive samples were identified. Sampling of 60 raw vegetables from local markets revealed ESBL-EC (21%), CREC (1%), and Salmonella (11%) positive samples. Out of 45 wastewater samples, results showed positive ESBL-EC (32%), CREC (9%), and Salmonella (42%).

These findings underscore the urgent need for effective AMR surveillance and intervention. Strengthening local capacities through a One Health framework is essential to curbing AMR spread and improving public health in sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, surveillance, neglected tropical diseases.

Abstract
Background: Despite historical urban advantages in maternal healthcare utilization, recent policy interventions in Ghana may have altered traditional patterns of institutional delivery disparities. This study sought to examine current patterns of institutional delivery between urban and rural women in Ghana using recent data and decompose the factors contributing to observed differences.
Methods: Using 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey data, this study analysed institutional delivery patterns among 8,714 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who had given birth within five years preceding the survey. The sample comprised 59.8% rural and 40.2% urban women. Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition analysis was employed to explain gaps in institutional delivery rates, using multiple decomposition methods to ensure robustness of findings.
Results: The analysis revealed a remarkable reversal of traditional patterns, with rural women demonstrating higher institutional delivery rates than urban women (58.4% vs 53.1%, p<0.001). The overall difference of 7.0 percentage points favoring rural areas was statistically significant across all decomposition methods. Key factors contributing to this gap included parity (number of children ever born), wealth distribution, and age categories. Near-universal National Health Insurance Scheme coverage was achieved (92.2% rural, 96.6% urban), reflecting successful health financing reforms.
Conclusion: Ghana has achieved a fundamental transformation in maternal healthcare equity, with rural women now outperforming urban women in institutional delivery utilization. This reversal of traditional urban-rural disparities demonstrates the effectiveness of sustained rural health system strengthening, infrastructure development, and health financing reforms. The findings provide evidence that comprehensive, equity-focused health policies can successfully eliminate and reverse historical healthcare disadvantages experienced by rural populations.

Oilfield scale formation remains a persistent challenge, contributing to production decline through permeability impairment and flow assurance issues in both surface and downhole equipment. Scaling also drives up operational costs by necessitating expensive workover operations and chemical treatments. In addition, scale management has environmental implications, including the disposal of inhibitor chemicals.
This study is guided by the following research question: Can scale prediction and management in petroleum systems be achieved with cost-effective, laboratory-based tools without relying on high-end commercial modelling software? The objective is to evaluate a low-cost, integrated experimental–modelling approach that can generate reliable predictions of scale formation and inform effective, sustainable mitigation strategies suitable for a wide range of operating contexts.
The experiment was performed using a packed column under both static and dynamic conditions. The column, filled with crushed rock, was aged in formation water (FW) for 48 hours to achieve equilibrium. Then 50 ml of injected brine was introduced and monitored for scale deposition. Experimental conditions and compositions were used as inputs into the geochemical solver PHREEQC. Mineral saturation indices and ion pairing were calculated to predict scaling species and corroborate the observed scale deposition.
Key findings indicate that both permeability and porosity were reduced due to precipitation of scale minerals such as calcite, barite, and gypsum within the packed column pore space. The geochemical modelling results reinforced these observations, validating the predictive capacity of the proposed methodology.
The integrated approach enhances understanding of scaling behaviour in both dynamic and static systems. Its cost-effective design provides producing oil fields with limited resources a practical and adaptable pathway to predict, prevent, and manage scale formation with accuracy comparable to sophisticated modelling tools, thereby informing tailored and sustainable scale management strategies.

Avibacterium paragallinarum (A. paragallinarum) is the etiological agent of infectious coryza, a highly contagious respiratory disease that causes substantial economic losses in the global poultry industry through increased mortality and reduced egg production. The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), poses a severe threat to effective disease management. This study aimed to analyze the genetic diversity of aminoglycoside-resistant A. paragallinarum clinical isolates to elucidate the resistance mechanisms and evolutionary relationships. A total of 118 A. paragallinarum genome sequences were acquired from the BV-BRC database. In-silico screening using ABRicate with the ARG-ANNOT database was employed to identify aminoglycoside resistance genes, revealing the presence of APH(3′), APH(3″), APH(6), AAC(3), and ANT(3″) genes across various strains. Comprehensive genomic analyses were performed, including pangenome assessment with GET_HOMOLOGUES, phylogenetic reconstruction using Roary and maximum likelihood methods, and detailed variant calling to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions, and deletions.The pangenome analysis revealed extensive genetic diversity, comprising 7,857 gene clusters, with only a single universal core gene, indicating a highly plastic and open genome. A significant number of genes were categorized as shell (4,595) and cloud (3,261), highlighting the role of accessory genes in adaptation and resistance. Phylogenetic analysis delineated distinct evolutionary clusters, suggesting potential lineage-specific adaptations linked to geographical origin and selective antibiotic pressure. Variant calling confirmed substantial genomic variations, including high SNP counts in resistant strains like AV25 and C-AP1. Crucially, the resistance gene profiling confirmed the widespread distribution of aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes (AMEs), which are responsible for enzymatic inactivation of the drugs, as a primary resistance mechanism.
This study provides a high-resolution genomic perspective on aminoglycoside resistance in A. paragallinarum.

Keywords: Avibacterium paragallinarum, Infectious Coryza, Aminoglycoside Resistance, Genetic Diversity, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Objectives and Scope:
The Tano basin offshore Ghana is being studied to strategically help achieve net-zero goals within the oil and gas industry across the West African sub region. The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation and the Petroleum Commission of Ghana hold years of subsurface data and knowledge to analyze and choose conducive reservoirs for CCUS project, playing key role in the energy transition in the sub region. Petrophysical and geomechanic properties of three wells A, B, and C were studied and used to characterize basin formation.
Methods, Procedures, Process:
The study employed an integrated workflow to investigate reservoir rock characteristics. We obtained reliable geotechnical data from limited geophysical well logs and results used to describe the geological suitability of three offshore wells in the Tano basin for CO2 sequestration. Data comprising gamma ray, resistivity, neutron, density logs were used. Gamma ray log was used for lithologic discrimination; resistivity log was employed to identify formation fluid based on electrical responses of reservoir formations, while combined density and neutron logs were used to estimate reservoir porosity. The analysis revealed thickness of sand zones and their geotechnical properties such as porosity and permeability.
Results, Observations, Conclusions:
Analysis of Well A indicated net reservoir interval, 56.1m of sandstone zones delimited by shale with porosity (min.9, aver.14 and max. 18) and 0.3-5.8mD permeability range. Well B, 37m, porosity (min.14, aver.16.5 and max. 19) and permeability 1.4 - 13.1mD range. Well C, 43m of alternating sandstone and shale, porosity system (min.14, aver.16.6 and max. 19) and 1.0-9.4mD range of permeability. Average water saturation (Sw) and hydrocarbon saturation (Sh) in each well was 0.88/0.12, 0.70/0.30 and 0.61/0.39 for wells A, B and C respectively. Reservoir permeability and Sw values observed depict suitability of reservoir to enhance CO2 storage as in residual and solubility trappings whereas the several intra-reservoir shale layers act as barriers to trap CO2 deep in the reservoir. The study approach provides useful insights and preliminary evaluations of suitability of the wells for CO2 sequestration.
Significance/Novelty:
The work approach use a deterministic workflow to obtain reliable petrophysical outputs with scarce wellbore data. Deterministic workflows calculate petrophysical parameters sequentially and are easy to use even for non-petrophysicists. This studies workflow can be applied to other reservoirs targeted for CO2 storage offshore Ghana.

Meningitis in West Africa exhibits strong seasonal patterns shaped by climatic conditions, yet changing climate patterns, rapid urbanization, and uneven surveillance complicates outbreak predication beyond the traditional meningitis belt. In this study, we developed Ghana’s first spatially explicit, climate-informed epidemiological model of meningitis that integrates case data, carriage and serogroup information, and high-resolution climate drivers. The compartmental process model captures carriage dynamics, climate-driven host susceptibility, and transmission heterogeneity across urban, peri-urban, and rural settings. Forced with observed and projected climate data, the model reproduces past epidemic timing and highlights elevated future risk in northern and transitional zones under warming scenarios. It also distinguishes differing outbreak potentials between densely urban and rural districts. This climate-driven model functions as a prototype early-warning system for Ghanaian health authorities, supporting targeted vaccination and preparedness. It also offers a transferable approach for other West African countries facing climate-sensitive meningitis risks.

ABSTRACT
African bony tongue (Heterotis niloticus) commonly called “supaku” has a huge potential for culture; it attains 2-4 kg body mass in one year under semi-intensive culture and has high market value across West/ Central Africa. However, it is primarily processed as salted and fermented fish (momone) with very limited value-added products postharvest. The limitation of diversified value-added products of Heterotis Niloticus (supaku) presents a major hindrance in the aquaculture industry as the momone market has other competitive fishes lowering value-for-money for Heterotis Niloticus (supaku) production. With rising consumer demand for convenient, healthy protein options, there is the need to develop innovative products that can compete in modern food markets. Ready-to-prepare fish nuggets and sausages from Het. Niloticus was developed through optimized formulation and standard processing techniques. A sensory analysis was conducted with 100 consumers panel using a 9-point hedonic scale, to assess key quality attributes like taste, appearance (colour), aroma or smell, juiciness and texture, and overall acceptability. The sensory evaluation revealed strong consumer acceptance, with the fish nuggets and sausages scoring high on taste, texture, and overall appeal. These ready-to-prepare products not only diversify the market options for Heterotis niloticus but also enhance its economic value, offering a competitive edge over traditional momone. By making use of modern food trends, this innovation paves the way for broader commercialization, encouraging fish farmers and meeting the growing demand for convenient, nutritious protein.

The public transport systems in most Sub-Saharan African cities (SSA) lack a standardized fare structure, resulting in arbitrary pricing that disproportionately affects both commuters and operators of various socio-demographic groups. This study addresses the need for a fair, transparent, equitable and adaptive fare system by developing a kilometre-based pricing model using AI. By analyzing economic, environmental and traffic attributes such as distance, vehicle type, fuel price, day type, weather condition, traffic level and traffic period, a predictive fare algorithm was developed and integrated into a prototype web-based application called Fare Estimation App (FEsApp). With its localization feature, FEsApp can estimate the transport fare for various public transport modes, and can provide a breakdown of what constitutes the estimated fare. It can simulate the expected change in transport fare over time, and can instantly compare the transport fare for five public transport modes for the same trip length. This estimation framework can help stabilize pricing, improve equity, and promote fairness and transparency in the public transport pricing system of SSA cities. With its potential to integrate various online fare payment systems, the application can support multimodal and integrated public transport systems of both formal and informal services.

Keywords: Public Transport, Transport Fare, Transport Fairness, Transport Equity, Machine Learning, Freetown

The escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a critical challenge to modern medicine and underscores the urgency of exploring alternative therapeutic strategies. Essential oils (EOs), rich in bioactive secondary metabolites, are recognized for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. However, their practical use is limited by volatility and susceptibility to environmental degradation. Nanoencapsulation offers a promising approach to enhance EO stability and bioactivity. This study investigates the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and antimicrobial activity of EOs extracted from three varieties of Terminalia catappa fruit pulp and three varieties of leaves from Ghana. A nanoemulsion based delivery system was developed to improve stability and potency. EOs were obtained via steam distillation and evaluated for antioxidant potential using the phosphomolybdenum (PM) assay, DPPH (1,1 diphenyl 2 picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays. Leaf EOs exhibited total antioxidant capacities of 26.112 ± 2.231, 26.819 ± 1.753, and 32.770 ± 1.663 mg AAE/100 g, while fruit pulp EOs recorded 27.807 ± 3.301, 24.181 ± 2.032, and 25.441 ± 1.914 mg AAE/100 g. DPPH scavenging IC₅₀ values for leaf EOs were 141.2 ± 1.112, 136.9 ± 3.123, and 180.6 ± 2.150 µg/mL, compared to 197.1 ± 2.980, 165.5 ± 1.278, and 194.0 ± 1.512 µg/mL for fruit pulp EOs. In hydrogen peroxide scavenging, fruit pulp EOs showed stronger activity (48.40 ± 0.341, 115.4 ± 3.432, and 101.8 ± 1.203 µg/mL) than leaf EOs (145.6 ± 2.131, 182.2 ± 2.154, and 70.28 ± 0.781 µg/mL). Antimicrobial activity, assessed by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), ranged from 20.5–41 mg/mL for leaf EOs and 25–50 mg/mL for fruit pulp EOs, with leaf EOs generally showing greater potency. Nanoemulsions were formulated and characterized by droplet size (26.43–218.1 nm), polydispersity index (0.334–0.397), and zeta potential (−9.88 to −21.8 mV). Nanoencapsulation markedly improved antimicrobial efficacy, reducing MIC values to 7.5–15 mg/mL compared with unencapsulated oils. Ongoing work includes detailed characterization of the EO constituents and evaluation of the antioxidant potential of the nanoencapsulated formulations. These results indicate that T. catappa EOs, particularly in nanoemulsion form, are promising natural antimicrobial agents with potential applications in addressing AMR related threats.

Malaria remains a global health threat causing high mortalities among children under 5 years old in the tropics and sub-tropics. The prevalence of drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum, underscoring the need for selective new leads. Natural products have long served as a rich source of novel antimalarials and extracts and isolates of Salacia debilis (SD) have shown potent antiplasmodial effects. While the isolates demonstrate incredible antimalarial effect in vivo, understanding their protein targets and possible molecular mechanims is crucial for drug modification and optimization. We examined three SD isolates: SD03 (benzyl 2-methoxybenzoate), SD04 (1,10-dihydroxy-6H-benzo[c]chromen-6-one), and SD05 (8-hydroxy-3,4-dimethoxydibenzo[b,d]furan-1-carboxylic acid), to determine their molecular target, following their antiplasmodial potential. High-throughput virtual screening and molecular docking identified P. falciparum enoyl-ACP reductase (PfENR), a Plasmodium parasite-specific enzyme in type II fatty-acid biosynthesis, as the top candidate with predicted binding energies between –8.50 and –8.90 kcal·mol⁻¹. Extended 500 ns molecular dynamics simulations validated stable, ligand-specific complexes and revealed interaction patterns that engage key catalytic residues (Tyr111, Tyr267, Leu315). These interactions mimic those formed by the benchmark inhibitor triclosan and promote enzyme conformations consistent with inhibition. Computational ADME-T profiling prioritized SD04 as the most promising lead on pharmacokinetic grounds. Together, these results provide a mechanistic rationale for the antiplasmodial activity of S. debilis isolates and support PfENR-directed optimization as a strategy to develop selective and new agents against drug-resistant malaria.

Background
Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy is well recognized for its mortality and morbidity rate in both mother and foetus. Globally, it affects about 5% of all pregnancies. This rate is slightly higher in developing countries (1.8-16.7%) such as Ghana. In clinical settings, it is classified as early onset preeclampsia (developed after 20 weeks but less than 34 weeks of gestation) and late onset preeclampsia (developed after 34 weeks of gestation). Although late onset preeclampsia is more prevalent, it is associated with less severe symptoms and outcomes. Available data provide information on the impact of preeclampsia on pregnancies but there is limited data on the association between pregestational BMI and gestational weight gain and their associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes in late onset preeclampsia women in Ghana. This study aimed to determine the association between pregestational body mass index and gestational weight gain and adverse pregnancy outcomes among late onset preeclampsia women.
Methodology
A retrospective case-control study conducted using maternal records of 161 pregnant women who attended Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital from September 2023 to May 2024. We included participants with singleton pregnancies, nulliparous/multiparous and ≥34 weeks of gestation. All controls were normotensive. Adverse pregnancy outcomes included in the study are: stillbirth, preterm, foetal distress, asphyxia, maternal death, prolonged labour, placental previa, placental abruptio, HELLP syndrome, IUFD, PPROM, PPH. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were performed using SPSS v27.0.
Results
57.7%, 28.8% and 13.5% of the control group gained inadequate, excess and adequate gestational weight respectively. Despite these findings, there was no significant association between pregestational BMI and gestational weight gain among the controls. Also, no adverse pregnancy outcome was recorded among our controls, thus no significant association between pregestational BMI and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
In the late onset preeclampsia group/cases, 52.3%, 26.6% and 20.2% gained excess, adequate and inadequate gestational weight respectively. Pregestational BMI was significantly associated (p<0.001) with gestational weight gain. Among the adverse outcomes studied, only placenta abruptio was associated with pregestational BMI (p=0.036). Binary logistic regression analysis to determine the predictors of gestational weight gain and placenta abruptio showed no significant results.
Conclusion
Pregestational BMI was significantly associated with the amount of gestational weight gain in the late onset preeclampsia group but plays minimal role in the development of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Keywords: Preeclampsia, Pregestational BMI, Gestational weight gain

In contrast to most industrialized countries, the majority of Sub-Saharan African cities continue to struggle with the growing demand for public transport (PT). Freetown, Republic of Sierra Leone, is exploring proposals to implement the first dedicated bus lane PT system (DBLPT) with high-quality buses on selected corridors. This study leverages AI-based and statistical modelling to calibrate a discrete choice model for conventional paratransit services. It further explored user preference for the planned DBLPT system, its benefits in terms of revenue and passenger ridership and quantified the extent to which the AI-based models are sensitive to changes in transport policies. The findings revealed a strong preference for minibuses (52.0%) and three-wheelers (32.6%), followed by paratransit buses (15.4%) as traditional PT modes. The “Bus and Minibus” system was predicted as the most preferred DBLPT system (54.8%), followed by the “Bus and Three-wheeler” (22.7%). Additionally, the “Bus and Minibus” system was predicted to generate the highest daily revenue and passenger ridership, followed by the “Bus and Three-wheeler” system. The AI-based models produced comparable results that outperform the traditional MNL model. The MNL model exhibits an average prediction accuracy of 80. 9%, while that of the AI-based models ranges from 90% to 94.4%. The latter models were found to significantly improve the prediction accuracy of the calibrated mode choice model by approximately 14%, suggesting the effectiveness of this approach in travel behaviour prediction. Travel cost (TC) was revealed as the most important trip-related attribute, followed by bus stop waiting time (BS_WT) and region of residence. The models are sensitive to TC and BS_WT, suggesting their significant role in commuter mode choice. These models are thus policy sensitive and remain useful for accurately forecasting demand across different modes. These findings and other model results underscore the preference for and benefits of an integrated DBLPT system.

The transportation of captured CO2 represents a critical bottleneck in large-scale Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) deployment, particularly in developing economies. While existing research predominantly focuses on CO2 capture technologies and storage solutions, the transportation value chain, especially pipeline transport optimization, remains underexplored in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study addresses this gap by developing a comprehensive simulation model for supercritical CO2 pipeline transportation tailored to Ghana's oil and gas infrastructure context.

I present a novel simulation framework that integrates thermo physical property modeling with pipeline integrity analysis, specifically accounting for impurities commonly present in captured CO2 streams. Our methodology combines computational fluid dynamics modeling with economic optimization algorithms to determine optimal pipeline design parameters. The model incorporates Ghana-specific environmental conditions, existing pipeline infrastructure, and regulatory constraints to provide realistic transportation scenarios.

Preliminary simulation results demonstrate that maintaining supercritical conditions (>7.38 MPa, >31.1°C) throughout the transport network reduces energy requirements by 23% compared to dense-phase transport while ensuring single-phase flow stability. Economic analysis reveals that optimized pipeline routing can achieve transportation costs of $2.1-3.8 per tonne CO2 over distances of 50-200 km, making CCUS projects economically viable when integrated with enhanced oil recovery operations. The model successfully predicts pressure drop profiles with 94% accuracy when validated against international pipeline data.

This research provides the first comprehensive pipeline simulation framework, offering critical insights for policy makers and industry stakeholders. The findings support Ghana's net-zero commitments under the Paris Agreement while demonstrating how developing nations can leverage existing oil and gas infrastructure for large-scale carbon management. Future work will extend the model to multi-phase transport scenarios and integrate real-time monitoring capabilities for enhanced operational safety.

Keywords: Carbon capture utilization storage, CO2 pipeline transport, supercritical fluid dynamics, Ghana energy infrastructure.

Malaria, driven by drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum, necessitates novel therapeutic targets. The parasite’s mitochondrial cytochrome bc1 (cyt bc1) complex, distinct from its human counterpart, is a validated target for selective inhibition. Quinolone derivatives from the medicinal plant Crinum firmifolium offer potential as novel inhibitors. This study investigated the inhibitory potential of eight quinolone derivatives (C1–C8) against the cyt bc1 complex using molecular docking, complemented by ADMET profiling and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Docking revealed binding energies ranging from –6.2 to –9.0 kcal/mol, with compounds C6 (–9.0 kcal/mol), C4 (–8.7 kcal/mol), C8 (–8.3 kcal/mol), and C3 (–8.4 kcal/mol) surpassing the natural substrate ubiquinol (–7.0 kcal/mol) and reference inhibitors antimycin A (–7.2 kcal/mol) and decoquinate (–7.9 kcal/mol). Notably, C6 exhibited binding affinity close to potent experimental inhibitors ELQ-300 (–10.0 kcal/mol) and GSK932121 (–10.4 kcal/mol), indicating strong potential to disrupt the parasite’s mitochondrial electron transport chain. ADMET predictions indicate favorable pharmacokinetics, good oral bioavailability, and low toxicity for the top candidates. MD simulations results suggest the stability of key protein–ligand complexes under physiological conditions. These results position C. firmifolium-derived quinolones, particularly C3, C5 and C6, as promising candidates for developing next-generation cyt bc1 inhibitors, warranting further biochemical and in vivo studies.

Keywords: Plasmodium falciparum, Quinolone derivatives, Mitochondrial electron transport chain, Drug resistance, Cytochrome bc1 complex

Dengue outbreak has become frequent in Ghana lately. Despite the influence
of climate change on dengue transmission, there is little information on how
Ghana's changing climate is driving these outbreaks. This study investigates
the role of climate change on the re-emergence of dengue outbreaks in Ghana
using a climate-driven basic reproduction number (R₀) model with temperature
and rainfall data to assess dengue transmission potential across Ghana's agro
climatic zones. We analyzed weather parameters including temperature data
from ERA-5 and rainfall data from CHIRPS spanning from 1994 to 2024. The
R₀ model incorporated biological parameters including biting rate, survival
probability, and extrinsic incubation period of the vector to evaluate
transmission suitability across Ghana's Forest, Coastal, Transition, Guinea
Savannah, and Sudan Savannah zones. Results revealed that the Transition,
Forest and Coastal zones showed suitable transmission potential (R₀ frequently
> 1), with the Forest Zone demonstrating the highest transmission potential,
followed by the Coastal Zone. The Sudan and Guinea savannah zones
consistently remained below the epidemic threshold. Transmission suitability
showed distinct seasonal patterns with peak transmission during wet seasons
and reduced transmission during dry seasons. The model effectively captures
spatial and seasonal transmission dynamics, demonstrating how Ghana's
changing climate creates favorable conditions for Aedes aegypti mosquito
breeding and dengue virus development. These findings provide critical
insights for targeting vector control interventions in high-risk southern zones
during peak transmission periods and establishing enhanced dengue
surveillance systems.
Keywords: Modeling, Climate Change, Dengue, Ghana.

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent globally. Recurrent TB episodes, defined as individuals diagnosed more than twice between 2019 and 2023, pose significant public health challenges, contributing to poor treatment outcomes, prolonged morbidity, and ongoing transmission, with an incidence of 468 per 100,000 population in South Africa. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of individuals with recurrent TB and to investigate factors associated with unsuccessful treatment outcomes in two high drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) burden provinces, Gauteng and Western Cape, from 2019 to 2023.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from the Electronic Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Register, including all individuals diagnosed with DR-TB during the study period. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Centre for TB and the University of the Witwatersrand. Descriptive statistics were generated, followed by univariable analysis to determine crude odds ratios. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals.
Results: A total of 11,481 TB records were included in the analysis. Descriptive analysis showed that the majority of individuals with recurrent TB were male (59.0%), aged between 25–44 years (57.8%), and living with HIV (59.7%). Most cases occurred in the Western Cape (61.9%), with a higher proportion of patients experiencing ≥3 episodes compared to Gauteng. Patients with five TB episodes had significantly higher odds of unsuccessful outcomes (aOR: 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2–6.0). DR-TB individuals in the Western Cape were more likely to experience treatment failure compared to those in Gauteng (aOR: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.3–1.6). Short-course treatment regimens were associated with improved outcomes (aOR: 0.7; 95% CI: 0.6–0.8).
Conclusion: A trend of worsening outcomes and rising complexity (e.g., pre-XDR/XDR-TB) was evident with each additional episode. Treatment failure was much higher in the Western Cape, which may be attributed to higher TB burdens, diagnostic practices, health system differences, or potential delays in care initiation. These findings highlight the need to reinforce strategies addressing loss to follow-up and highlight the potential of short-course regimens in enhancing treatment success and reducing TB transmission.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic and multidrug‑resistant pathogen, is a leading cause of hospital‑acquired infections, including pneumonia. Its pathogenicity is closely linked to quorum sensing (QS), a communication system that regulates virulence factor production and biofilm formation through transcriptional regulators such as LasR, RhlR, PqsR, and IqsR. Despite extensive efforts to identify QS inhibitors, the molecular basis of QS protein–DNA interactions remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the interaction between LasR and the promoter DNA of the hydrogen cyanide (hcn) virulence gene in P. aeruginosa at atomic detail. Molecular modeling and structural analysis revealed that LasR predominantly engages the DNA major groove, with Arg224, Arg222, and Phe210 among the key residues mediating sequence‑specific recognition. Autoinducer binding and LasR dimerization were found to be critical for productive DNA engagement, enabling conformations that optimize contact with target sequences. Multiple stable protein conformations involved in the DNA‑binding process were identified, providing new insight into LasR’s functional dynamics. These findings deepen our understanding of QS regulation at the protein–DNA interface and offer a rational basis for inhibitor design. Potential strategies include targeting critical DNA‑contact residues, disrupting dimerization, blocking autoinducer binding, or directly interfering with DNA major groove accessibility. Such approaches could pave the way for novel anti‑virulence therapeutics against multidrug‑resistant P. aeruginosa.

Keywords: transcriptional regulators, autoinducer, dimerization, virulence factors, DNA major groove, inhibitor design.

Floods pose a persistent threat in sub-Saharan urban areas, exacerbating vulnerabilities through interactions between natural hazards and social structures. This study explores how residents' and government institutions' experiences of flood causes, impacts, and management strategies shape urban resilience in Ashaiman, Ghana—a flood-prone informal settlement. Grounded in Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), it examines cognitive appraisals (threat and coping) as mediators between experiences and behaviours, highlighting sociological factors like power asymmetries and urban fragmentation.
Employing a qualitative case study design, data were collected via semi-structured interviews with 20 purposively selected residents from low-elevation neighbourhoods (e.g., Jericho, 16m) and 4 staff from institutions (NADMO, Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, Red Cross), supplemented by focus group discussions and observations. Thematic analysis revealed convergences (e.g., shared recognition of poor drainage as a cause) and divergences (e.g., residents' emphasis on emotional/social strains vs. institutions' focus on infrastructural damage), with residents favouring reactive, individualistic strategies (e.g., evacuations) due to perceived uncontrollability, while institutions pursued preventive, policy-driven measures amid resource constraints.
Findings underscore how direct and indirect experiences drive management behaviors but are refracted through urban hierarchies, perpetuating inequalities. Based on these findings, the study advocates for participatory platforms to integrate experiential knowledge, enhancing collective efficacy in climate-vulnerable cities. This contributes to sociological understandings of flood dynamics in developing urban contexts, informing equitable governance amid escalating environmental risks.

Abstract
Background:
Mental illness encompasses a range of disorders affecting cognition, mood, and behavior, with significant implications for public health. Globally, around 970 million individuals are affected, with women disproportionately impacted. In Ghana, mental illness affects an estimated 13% of the population and is the second leading cause of years lived with disability. Recent evidence suggests a strong association between mental illness and hemostatic abnormalities, including hypercoagulability, impaired fibrinolysis, and increased thrombotic risk. Psychotropic medications and physical restraint practices further contribute to this risk. Despite these findings, limited data exist on the prevalence and mechanisms of hemostasis abnormalities among psychiatric patients in Ghana.
Aim:
This study sought to determine the prevalence of hemostatic abnormalities among individuals with mental illness in Ghana, identify perturbed coagulation pathways, and evaluate their association with psychiatric diagnoses, treatment medications, and patient management practices such as restraint and sedation.
Methods:
A hospital-based prospective case-control study was conducted at Ankaful Psychiatric Hospital involving 100 participants—50 psychiatric patients and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Coagulation markers including Prothrombin Time (PT), Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT), D-dimer, Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), Protein C, Protein S, and Antithrombin III were analyzed, alongside complete blood count indices. VTE risk was assessed using the Caprini Risk Assessment Model. Statistical tests included chi-square, logistic regression, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis H tests, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.
Results:
Sociodemographic analysis revealed significant differences between cases and controls in gender, age, marital status, occupation, and the presence of swollen legs (p < 0.001). Cases had significantly higher BMI (26.9 ± 3.7 vs. 23.8 ± 3.0; p < 0.001), lower RBC parameters (RBC, HGB, HCT; p < 0.001), and decreased platelet indices (PLT, PCT, P-LCC; p < 0.001), indicating possible anemia and thrombocytopenia. Granulocyte percentages were elevated (p < 0.001), while lymphocyte counts were reduced in cases (p < 0.001), suggesting inflammatory or immune activation.
Coagulation analysis showed significantly prolonged PT (13.8 ± 1.9 vs. 12.6 ± 2.0; p = 0.003) and APTT (50.5 ± 8.9 vs. 45.7 ± 7.0; p = 0.004) in cases. D-dimer and PAI-1 levels were markedly elevated among psychiatric patients (p < 0.001), while Antithrombin III was also higher (p = 0.02). No significant differences were observed in Protein C (p = 0.99) or INR (p = 0.31).
One-way ANOVA showed significant group differences in APTT (F(4,95) = 3.215, p = 0.016), with Tukey post hoc tests indicating significantly higher APTT in individuals with schizophrenia compared to controls (p = 0.012). Other coagulation parameters (PT, INR, Protein S) did not vary significantly across diagnostic groups. Similarly, Kruskal-Wallis tests revealed no significant differences in D-dimer, PAI-1, Protein C, or Antithrombin III across different psychiatric conditions.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrates a high prevalence of hemostatic abnormalities among individuals with mental illness in Ghana, characterized by elevated procoagulant and antifibrinolytic markers. These findings suggest increased thrombotic risk, particularly among patients with schizophrenia. Routine coagulation screening and thromboprophylaxis considerations may be warranted in psychiatric care to mitigate potential complications.

Understanding land cover dynamics and their implications on sedimentation is critical for sustainable reservoir management in rapidly urbanizing catchments. This study assessed land cover changes from 1990 to 2030 across the Owabi, Barekese, and Odaso sub-catchments in Ghana and their impact on sedimentation risk and water supply sustainability. Classification models demonstrated robust performance, with overall accuracy (OA) ranging from 86% to 95% and strong Kappa coefficients (0.78 to 0.92), confirming model reliability. The land cover changes revealed significant declines in closed forest cover, primarily due to settlement expansion, agriculture, and illegal mining, with Owabi and Odaso experiencing the most substantial forest-to-settlement and forest-to-bareland transitions. Consequently, sedimentation risk scores (SRS) increased by 1.8, 2.5, and 3.6 folds for Owabi, Barekese, and Odaso, respectively, from their 1990 baselines, with Odaso experiencing the most rapid increase due to intense illegal mining activity. Forest degradation and weak buffer enforcement have exacerbated sediment influx into reservoirs, threatening water treatment operations and ecosystem services. The study highlights the urgency of preserving forest buffers, enforcing land-use regulations, and integrating land cover monitoring into sediment risk mitigation strategies. These findings are pivotal for informing policy and ensuring resilient potable water supply systems in urban Ghana.
Key words: Reservoir, Sedimentation, Land cover change, Assessment

Mobile government (m-government) services have emerged as critical tools for enhancing public service delivery, yet adoption rates in developing countries such as Ghana remain suboptimal despite high rates of mobile penetration. This study addresses the gap in understanding the factors that influence m-government adoption in Ghana, citizens increasingly demand for accessible digital government services yet, limited usage. The research aims to identify the key determinants of m-government’s acceptance and provide insights for improving digital service delivery strategies in developing economies. The study employed the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework to examine the factors influencing m-government adoption. Data for the study were collected through structured online surveys administered to Ghanaian citizens with mobile phone access. The collected data were then analyzed using structural equation modeling via SmartPLS to test the hypothesized relationships between UTAUT constructs and m-government adoption intentions and actual usage.

The analysis revealed that performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions significantly predict behavioral intention to use m-government services in Ghana. Behavioral intention demonstrated a strong positive effect on actual m-government usage. Interestingly, effort expectancy, while positively related to intention, did not show statistical significance, suggesting that perceived ease of use may be less critical in this context as compared to performance benefits and social factors. The findings validate the applicability of the UTAUT model in the Ghanaian m-government context and provide actionable insights for policymakers and technology implementers. The results recommends that governments should focus on demonstrating clear performance benefits of m-government services, leveraging social networks for promotion, and investing in robust technological infrastructure. This research contributes to the extant empirical literature on m-government adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa and offers practical recommendations for enhancing digital governance strategies in similar developing country contexts.

Keywords: Mobile government, technology adoption, digital governance, citizen services, developing countries

Background: Malaria transmission in Ghana varies across ecological zones, shaped by vector diversity and the spread of insecticide resistance. Understanding how Anopheles species composition, biting behavior, and resistance alleles influence local transmission is essential for guiding targeted control strategies.
Methods: The study was conducted in two ecological zones of Ghana: Afamanso in the Ashanti Region and Obom in the Greater Accra Region. Quarterly entomological surveys were performed during rainy and dry seasons. Adult mosquitoes were collected indoors and outdoors using human landing catches (HLC). Specimens were morphologically identified and Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite infections were detected using circumsporozoite protein ELISA. Molecular PCR assays were used for species identification within the An. gambiae complex. Allele-specific PCR was employed to detect knockdown resistance (kdr-East and kdr-West) and acetylcholinesterase-1 (Ace-1) mutations. Entomological inoculation rate (EIR), were calculated to assess transmission intensity.
Key findings: A total of 8,022 Anopheles mosquitoes were collected across the two zones. An. gambiae s.l. was the predominant vector, with An. Coluzzii (47.5 %) and An. gambiae s.s (52.5 %). most frequent, while An. arabiensis and An. melas were not present. Sporozoite ELISA confirmed P. falciparum infections in both zones, with higher infection prevalence in Obom. HBR and EIR were significantly higher in Obom compared to Afamanso. Molecular genotyping revealed widespread kdr mutations, with kdr-East more frequent in Obom and kdr-West dominant in Afamanso. Ace-1 mutations were detected at lower frequencies but often co-occurred with kdr alleles, indicating multiple resistance mechanisms in circulation.
Implications for public health: Malaria transmission in Ghana is influenced by ecological differences in vector diversity, biting behavior, and insecticide resistance. The co-occurrence of kdr and Ace-1 mutations highlights an emerging challenge for vector control. Continuous surveillance is critical to sustain malaria control and support elimination goals.
Key words: Malaria transmission, knockdown resistance acetylcholinesterase-1 mutations and EIR

Musculoskeletal Disorders and their Associated Risk Factors among Artisans at Suame Magazine, Kumasi, Ghana

Lordina Abass Appiah1, Ebenezer Otu Ayeboafo Ansah2, Francis Junior Opoku1, Margaret Ama Odoom1, Emmanuella Darko3, Elizabeth Aseidua Amoanu1, Mabel Mawuenam Amemaxa1, Eric Adjei Boadu4, Philip Apraku Tawiah1, Barbara Gyapong-Korsah1, Samuel Nkansah Darko5, Daniel Boateng2, Kofi Sekyere Boateng1,6, Thomas Peprah Agyekum1*

1Department of Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
2Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
3Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
4Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
5Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
6Department of Public Health Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Asante Mampong, Ghana

Email Address
LAA – lordinaabassappiah@gmail.com
EOAA – ansahebenezer3@gmail.com
FJO – fj.opoku@gmail.com
MAO – margaretodoom7@gmail.com
ED – elladark19@gmail.com
EAA – asieduaelizabeth102@gmail.com
MMA – mabelamemaxa@gmail.com
EAB – ericusbua@yahoo.com
PAT – japrakutawiah24@gmail.com
BG-K – barbygk@yahoo.com
SND – s.darko28@gmail.com
DB – daniel.dboateng@gmail.com
KSB – kofisekyereboateng@gmail.com
TPA – thomaspagyekum@gmail.com/tp.agyekum@knust.edu.gh

Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant occupational health concern, particularly among artisans working in informal industrial settings. These disorders can severely impact productivity, quality of life, and job performance. This study assessed the prevalence of MSDs and associated risk factors among artisans in the automotive and garage industry in Suame Magazine, Kumasi.
Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional study design and employed stratified random and systematic sampling techniques to select 423 artisans. The data were collected between June and August 2024 using structured questionnaires administered through the Kobo Collect platform. Binary logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among artisans.
Results: The prevalence of MSDs among artisans was high (71.73%). The most affected body parts were the neck (33.77%), lower back (21.85%), and shoulders (20.20%). Significant risk factors for MSDs included working in awkward postures (AOR = 41.76, 95% CI = 2.17 – 80.92, P = 0.013) and performing repetitive tasks (AOR = 67.03, 95% CI = 23.67 – 80.84, P < 0.001). Musculoskeletal disorders led to reduced work hours (75.52%), absenteeism (12.03%), and decreased productivity (10.37%). Awareness of ergonomic interventions was low (13.77%), with lack of access and perceived necessity cited as major barriers to usage.
Conclusion: The study recommends workplace ergonomics training, improved occupational health policies, and preventive interventions to reduce MSDs and enhance artisans’ productivity.
Keywords: Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), Artisans, Ergonomic Risk Factors, Productivity, Ghana

The escalating threat of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens is compounded by their dual-membrane defenses, which severely limit the efficacy of conventional antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) provide a promising alternative, yet their application is restricted by cytotoxicity and rapid proteolytic degradation.

Manudysins, rationally engineered derivatives of the human thrombin-derived peptide FRL16, were designed through stereochemical modification of protease-sensitive residues. This approach generated peptides that are protease-resistant, non-cytotoxic, and strongly membrane-disruptive. Atomistic molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that Manudysins not only bypass the lipopolysaccharide-rich outer membrane, penetrating and destabilizing it, but also insert deeply into the phospholipid-rich inner membrane, adopting tilted conformations that drive severe bilayer perturbation.

These findings establish Manudysins as stable, membrane-active agents capable of overcoming both barriers of Gram-negative bacteria. By combining rational stereochemical design with molecular dynamics simulations, this study provides a blueprint for the development of next-generation antimicrobial peptides to address the post-antibiotic era.

Waste cupels from fire assay methods are considered as hazardous wastes because they are heavily contaminated with lead oxide (PbO) after cupellation therefore posing environmental hazards and disposal challenges. This work deals with the recovery of lead from used/spent cupels and transforming it into lead oxide suitable for reuse in the cupellation process and other applications. The spent cupels are collected from Intertek, Ghana, crushed and grinded into a powder and sieved to a size of 75 microns and characterized using X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-Ray diffraction (XRD). It was leached with acetic acid solutions at concentrations (1 M), (2 M) and (4 M) respectively at a Solid: liquid ratio of 1:4 ml and 1:8 ml. The results indicated that Pb recovery efficiently increased with increased acid concentration, with 4 M acetic acid at a 1:4 ml S/L ratio yielding up to 88 % recovery. Leachate was treated with ammonium carbonate (NH4CO3) to precipitate lead carbonate (PbCO3), which was dried at 100°C and calcined between 350 and 365 °C in a furnace to obtain PbO. The formation of well-crystallized tetragonal litharge with a small amount of orthorhombic massicot was confirmed by phase analysis. This study illustrates a sustainable way of recycling fire assay laboratory waste and repurposing the product into valuable materials thereby reducing environment hazards and promoting a circular economy.

Background: Accurate diagnosis of Mansonella perstans infection is essential for effective disease detection, treatment, and control programs. The Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) assay serves as a sensitive, straightforward molecular tool suitable for resource-limited environments. It is a rapid, cost-effective, and reliable diagnostic method. The LAMP assay employs three pairs of primers to amplify specific nucleic acid sequences at a constant temperature. This study aimed to optimize the LAMP assay for targeting the Mp419 repetitive sequence under various conditions, evaluating its application for detecting M. perstans in clinical blood samples collected in Ghana.
Methods: The research consisted of a laboratory-based experiment and an observational study involving 224 participants' blood samples. These samples were analysed for M. perstans using microscopy, quantitative PCR (Q-PCR), and the LAMP assay to assess the sensitivity and specificity of the LAMP method. The conditions for the LAMP assay were refined to enhance its detection threshold.
Results: The M. perstans LAMP assay demonstrated a clinical sensitivity of 72.98% (95% CI, 55.61-85.63), a specificity of 100% (95% CI, 97.49 – 100), and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 100% (95% CI, 84.5 -100) compared to an established M. perstans Q-PCR assay and microscopy. The Kappa value between LAMP PCR and microscopy was found to be 81.8% (95% CI, 70.8-92.8). The optimal condition for the LAMP assay to identify the M. perstans Mp419 repetitive sequence was determined to be amplification at a steady temperature of 63˚C for 45 minutes, with the lowest limit of detection of 0.05 mf/mL of whole blood.
Conclusions: The M. perstans-specific LAMP assay showed no cross-reaction with other filarial parasites, demonstrating diagnostic performance comparable to that of the combined efficacy of M. perstans Q-PCR and microscopy. Therefore, the LAMP assay can serve as an effective alternative molecular diagnostic tool for M. perstans, especially in low-resource settings.
Keywords: M. perstans, LAMP, diagnosis, PCR, accuracy.

Low salinity water (LSW), carbonated water (CW), micellar solutions, acids are some of the smart fluids injected into the reservoir to optimize recovery. Though, these fluids help to improve the oil recovery, they also have a detrimental effect on the integrity of the oil and gas production facility due to material degradation resulting from corrosion. The aim of this study is to develop a screening tool to assess the corrosion tendency of injected fluid under both surface and reservoir conditions. Both experiment and simulation techniques were used. The properties of the materials as employed in the experiment were used as input into the geochemical model. The metal samples considered in this study were high carbon steel (HCS), low carbon steel (LCS) and stainless steel (SS) while the injection fluid employed are distilled water (DW), brine and acidic-brine.
To add to the above, HCS and LCS resulted in the highest corrosion rate (i.e. 3.176 mm/year and 3.135 mm/year, respectively) while the SS demonstrated relatively low corrosion rate (i.e. approximately 0.237 mm/year) in the acidic-brine environment. This was attributed to the protective layer from its chromium (Cr) content. The corrosion rate of the galvanized nail was also negligible (0.0305 –0.0512 mm/year) due to the sacrificial protection from the zinc.
A novel technique of screening the corrosion tendencies of oil and gas production facilities has been developed. This is a fast technique of predicting the corrosion tendencies of both surface and downhole equipment using their material properties.

The discharge of arsenic-contaminated mine wastewater poses severe ecological and health risks in mining communities. This study evaluated the phytoremediation potential of three plant species, Chrysopogon zizanioides (Vetiver grass), Typha latifolia (Cattail), and Pteris vittata (Chinese brake fern) for treating arsenic-contaminated pit wastewater at the Ghana Manganese Company, Nsuta-Tarkwa. A 4x3 Completely Randomised Block Design experiment was employed, consisting of four experimental hydroponic tanks (one control and three treatments) and three replicates, with each tank containing 12 L of wastewater at an initial arsenic (As) concentration of 1.00 mg/L. Weekly measurements of As concentration and physico-chemical parameters of wastewater were done. After six weeks, changes in As concentration, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen and turbidity of the wastewater, and plant growth and survival in the hydroponic tanks were determined. Phytoremediation performance followed the order Vetiver > Cattail > Fern. Vetiver achieved the highest As removal (75%, final concentration 0.00 mg/L), followed by Cattail (47%, 0.53 mg/L) and Fern (45%, 0.55 mg/L). Similarly, plant survival ranked Vetiver (95%), Cattail (81.7%), and Fern (75%). Arsenic accumulation was mainly in roots for Vetiver and Cattail, but in leaves for Fern. Translocation factors were 0.51 (Vetiver), 1.08 (Cattail), and 2.10 (Fern), indicating Vetiver’s strong root stabilization and limited translocation to above-ground tissues. Overall, Vetiver demonstrated superior tolerance, uptake efficiency, and low-cost applicability, making it a sustainable alternative for mitigating arsenic-contaminated mine wastewater compared to conventional treatment methods.

Abstract
Introduction: The World Health Organisation reports that unsafe healthcare causes millions of injuries or deaths every year worldwide. Low—and middle-income countries alone record 134 million adverse events annually, and 2.6 million of these events result in deaths in healthcare settings. The nature of job demand and burnout among nurses in the Emergency Department can account for the high incidence of adverse events. The study examined the role of job demand and burnout in adverse event reporting among nurses at the Emergency Departments of Ghanaian hospitals.
Methods: This study used a multi-centre cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from professional and auxiliary nurses working in Emergency Departments across various hospitals in Ghana’s ecological belts. The study employed validated scales, and data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, testing hypotheses through ANOVA and mediation models at a 0.05 significance level.
Results: The frequency distribution of adverse events revealed that 27.6% of respondents reported no Adverse Events in the preceding year, and 38.5% reported one to two Adverse Events. Patient safety impressions were split, with 38.8% rating it as “good”. The occurrence was deemed moderately high, with a mean Adverse Event Reporting rate of 5.36 (SD = 2.28). The work demand study found moderate levels across several subscales, with high work pace and cognitive demands scores. Burnout levels were significantly higher for emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation. The ANOVA demonstrated significant differences in Adverse Event Reporting among hospital categories, with Teaching Hospitals showing the highest reporting rates. The mediation analysis found that work demand correlated negatively with Adverse Event Reporting and positively with burnout.
Conclusion: The study underscores the urgent need for healthcare systems to address increased job demand, which contributes to burnout and impedes Adverse Event Reporting. Managing job demands is an essential strategy to mitigate burnout and improve patient safety outcomes.

PROTEIN ANALYSIS OF GABOON VIPER (BITIS GABONICA) VENOM OBTAINED FROM GHANA
Harriet D. Kodjie, Lolynda S. Ocloo, Prince A. Agyemang, Jeffrey N.A Bonsu, Mark Opoku, Caleb Kesse Firempong
Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biosciences, Kwame Nkrumah
University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana.
E-mail: calebuse @yahoo.com / ckfirempong.cos@knust.edu.gh

ABSTRACT
Snake envenomation is still a major public health concern across sub-Saharan Africa, where Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica) is considered one of the most medically significant venomous snakes due to the deadly nature of its venom. This study therefore investigated the protein composition of B. gabonica* venom obtained from Ghana using standard protocols. The Bradford assay was used to determine the protein concentration of the venom while the SDS-PAGE was used to separate the various venom proteins based on their molecular sizes. The functional groups of the different venom proteins were also evaluated using FTIR spectroscopy while the median lethal dose (LD₅₀) was determined using the Karber method. The results showed that the total protein concentration of the snake venom was 1.15 mg/mL, which confirmed the likelihood of several bioactive molecules in the venom. The SDS-PAGE analysis displayed five distinct protein bands at molecular weights of approximately 10.07 kDa to 68.35 kDa, which were consistent with some venom proteins including metalloproteinases, serine proteases, phospholipase A₂ and disintegrins. FTIR analysis also confirmed the presence of protein-associated amide bonds, phosphate groups, and nucleotides, which highlighted the biochemical complexity of the venom. The LD₅₀ was determined as 0.78 mg/kg, which supported the venom as highly toxic among known range of this species. The findings confirmed the high protein diversity and toxicity of Gaboon viper venom from Ghana and provided essential baseline data that supported region-specific antivenom development for improved clinical management of snakebite envenoming.

Keywords: Bitis gabonica, Venom, Proteomics, SDS-PAGE, Envenomation, Median lethal dose, FTIR

Background
Diabetes prevalence is increasing, but the rate is faster in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) than in other regions. It is a matter of concern among people living with HIV (PLWH) in SSA due to the long years of diabetogenic antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the epidemiological transition of chronic diseases in the region. For this reason, the current study sought to explore the burden of diabetes among PLWH and examine the predictors of undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) among participants.
Methods
A hospital-based cross-sectional study design and systematic sampling were used to recruit 254 PLWH. Anthropometric measurements and lifestyle factors, including alcohol consumption, were done using the WHO STEPS protocol. Blood samples were also taken to determine the HbA1c level. Age-standardized prevalence of DM was determined using WHO weighted prevalence. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the predictors of undiagnosed DM.
Results
The mean age of participants was 54.87 years (SD=7.06) and females were the majority, 73.1% (n=87). The crude prevalence of DM was 26.89% (95% CI, 19.17-35.79) of the study population, and 23.5% (95% CI: 16.3-32.1) were undiagnosed of the study population, while 20.2% (95% CI: 13.5-28.4) were pre-diabetics, and 1.7%, (95% CI: 0.2-6.0%) were uncontrolled. The DM detection rate was 12.5% and 50% controlled rates. Most of the participants who were DM were between 50 and 59 years and were females, 90.6% (n=29), had a normal BMI 43.7% (n=14), and 43.7% were obese (n=14). Adjusted for covariates (age, HbA1c, sex, hypertension, ART duration, income and alcohol consumption), in a multivariate model, for each decrease in income, there is 0.3% (OR=.997, 95% CI: .994-.999, P=.011) odds of undiagnosed DM. For every unit increase in BMI, there is 11.3% (OR = 1.113, 95% CI: 1.001-1.236, P = .047) increased odds of undiagnosed DM.
Conclusion: There were high rates of undiagnosed diabetes and pre-diabetes among PLWH. DM screening, care and prevention should be integrated with routine HIV care and non-drug intervention programs should be encouraged among participants with pre-diabetes to prevent their progression.

In the oil and gas industry, the oil recovery efficiency is optimized by injecting water of different ionic composition such as low salinity brine, carbonated brine and other smart fluids into the reservoir to alter the wetting state of the rock thereby increasing recovery. However, the reservoir also contains its in-situ Formation Water (FW), and hence mixing of these two brines of different ionic compositions will result in the formation of scale in an attempt to re-establish a new equilibrium for the mixture. Different ionic compositions were prepared and mixed at a predefined volume fractions at different temperature and pressure conditions to evaluate their scale precipitation tendencies. The experiment was simulated using the qualities and quantities of the brine as used during the experiment using a geochemical solver (PHREEQ-C).
The scale formed due to the interactions of these ions was visually observed and analyzed to evaluate the type of scale. The experiment results were buttress using the geochemical modelling results. A positive saturation index (SI) indicates precipitation while a negative SI indicate dissolution. If the SI is zero, it implies equilibrium (i.e. the Ionics are neither precipitating or dissolving). At 60 °C temperature, pH (solution) = 6.515, Density ≈ 1.00783 g/cm³, and 1atm simulation pressure, both the simulation confirm the formation of aragonite, calcites, halite and witherite. Scale mitigation mainly involves chemical scale inhibitors that prevent mineral deposition. Effective mitigation requires understanding scale type, inhibitor selection, and early treatment to manage and control scaling risks in production systems.

Background: Buruli ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a debilitating skin disease prevalent in tropical regions. Secondary bacterial infections may complicate this condition, necessitating comprehensive bacteriological investigations to inform effective treatment. This study aimed to determine the presence and prevalence of Pseudomonas spp., Klebsiella spp., and Escherichia spp. in wound samples from Buruli ulcer patients and evaluate their impact on clinical outcomes.

Methods: A total of 177 samples were collected from patients with Buruli ulcer lesions. Bacterial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed using the bioMérieux® VITEK-2 Compact system, while Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) genes were detected with an optimized real-time PCR assay.

Results: Out of 177 isolates, 48 (27%) were Gram-positive and 128 (73%) were Gram-negative. Among the Gram-negative isolates identified, Pseudomonas spp. constituted the largest proportion (24, 19%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (16, 13%) and Escherichia spp. (11, 9%). The predominant bacterial species identified were Escherichia coli (9, 81%), Klebsiella pneumoniae ssp. pneumoniae (9,56%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (19,79%) were found among Escherichia spp., Klebsiella spp., and Pseudomonas spp., respectively. Lesions with higher bacterial diversity and load were linked to delayed healing (p=0.001) and both K. pneumoniae ssp. pneumoniae and P.aeruginosa persisted in lesions during treatment.
A significant antimicrobial resistance profile was seen in E. coli against commonly used antibiotics such as Tetracycline (6/8, 75%), Ampicillin/Sulbactam (4/8, 50%), Ciprofloxacin (3/8, 38%), Cefotaxime (3/8, 38%), and Cefpodoxime (3/8, 38%). For K. pneumoniae ssp. pneumoniae, resistance to Tetracycline (3/8, 38%) and Ampicillin (9/9, 100%) was observed. Additionally, ESBL genes (bla_CTX-M and bla_TEM) were found in both E. coli and K. pneumoniae ssp., emphasizing the clinical importance of these multidrug-resistant pathogens in Buruli ulcer infections. Low resistance was observed in Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Piperacillin/Tazobactam (2/13, 15%), Ceftazidime (2/17, 12%), and Ciprofloxacin (3/17, 18%).

Conclusion: This study reveals the presence and resistance patterns of Pseudomonas spp., Klebsiella spp., and Escherichia spp. in Buruli ulcer patients. These findings emphasize the need to integrate effective strategies for managing secondary bacterial infections into Buruli ulcer treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes.

Background: Illegal small-scale gold mining (galamsey) in Ghana has resulted in widespread contamination of water bodies with toxic heavy metals, posing significant risks to public health and environmental sustainability. This study addresses the research question: How can heavy metals be removed from polluted water in a cost-effective and eco-friendly manner without introducing secondary waste problems?

Methods: Commercially available activated carbon was employed as a primary adsorbent to remove heavy metals from contaminated water. Removal efficiencies were assessed across varying concentrations. To mitigate the challenge of secondary pollution from spent activated carbon, bacterial strains were isolated from contaminated soils and tested for metal tolerance. The isolates, tentatively identified as Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus, were examined for their ability to regenerate used carbon through biosorption and bioaccumulation mechanisms.

Results: Activated carbon demonstrated high adsorption efficiency for heavy metal pollutants. The bacterial isolates exhibited resistance to concentrations up to 4 ppm, confirming their potential in biological regeneration. When combined, the system maintained the strong adsorption capacity of activated carbon while reducing the risk of secondary pollution through microbial uptake of adsorbed metals.

Applications: This integrated approach offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable solution for remediating heavy metal–polluted waters in mining-impacted areas. By coupling chemical adsorption with biological regeneration, the method extends the lifespan of activated carbon, minimizes waste disposal challenges, and provides a scalable strategy for protecting water resources in affected communities.

Road distresses, such as potholes and alligator cracks, are major safety hazards that lead to increased maintenance costs and vehicle damage. Traditional manual inspection methods are time-consuming, subjective, and often inaccurate. This study introduces an automated, real-time road distress detection system that uses deep learning algorithms, specifically Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and YOLOv8, to improve detection accuracy and efficiency across various environmental conditions.
Our approach involves data acquisition, labeling, and training on a diverse dataset of potholes and alligator cracks. The system achieved a detection accuracy of 92% and a processing speed of 95 frames per second (fps), making it ideal for real-time applications. Beyond simple detection, the system also calculates the area and volume of detected potholes, geotags their locations, and visualizes them on an interactive map. All results are stored in a database and can be exported as detailed PDF reports, which supports more efficient road maintenance.
This research has significant implications for intelligent transportation systems and smart city initiatives, enabling proactive maintenance and optimized resource allocation. Future work will focus on improving the system's robustness and deploying it on edge devices, such as mobile platforms, to increase its practical utility.

Keywords: Deep Learning, YOLOv8, Road Distress Detection, Potholes, Alligator Cracks, Real-time Detection, Smart Cities, Automated Road Maintenance

Fresh salad vegetables are widely consumed, and repeated microbial analysis on these vegetables over the years persistently indicates the presence of microbial contaminants in the salad vegetables that pose food safety risks to the consumer. Standard, culture-based detection methods are mostly used in the detection of bacteria. These culture-based methods are biased toward detecting fast-growing mesophilic bacteria and often miss viable but non-culturable (VBNC) or thermophilic species. Recommendations from previous studies suggest the use of modern technologies at the molecular level, such as the use of PCR and 16S rRNA, for the full detection of the microorganism. This study employed PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing tools to investigate bacterial diversity in 120 samples of cabbage, carrot, cucumber, green pepper, lettuce, and tomato from 20 farms across Ghana’s Eastern Region. Unlike conventional techniques, this approach enabled the detection of thermophilic bacteria such as Geobacillus stearothermophilus, Parageobacillus caldoxylosilyticus, and Bacillus thermoterrestris, organisms that require high incubation temperatures (>50°C) and are virtually undetectable using the conventional lab protocols. The method also identified VBNC and environmentally adapted species, including Bacillus stercoris, Mycobacterium mangenotii, and Clostridioides mangenotii, revealing a more complete picture of microbial contamination. Amplicon sizes ranged from 1280 to 1500 bp, with smaller fragments in some vegetables suggesting primer mismatch or low-complexity templates. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the presence of known pathogens (Bacillus anthracis, Campylobacter jejuni), alongside beneficial or spoilage-associated strains. These findings highlight the unique strength of molecular diagnostics in detecting hard-to-culture bacterial threats and expand the understanding of microbial risks in farm-fresh salad vegetables. Incorporating such DNA-based tools into food safety monitoring is essential, especially in tropical agricultural systems where thermophilic and VBNC organisms may thrive unnoticed.

Philipina Acheampong¹, Michael Konney Laryea¹, and Lawrence Sheringham Borquaye¹,²
¹Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
²Central Laboratory, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana
Email: philipinacheampong32@gmail.com

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a critical global health challenge, largely driven by multidrug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens (E. faecium, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.). In Ghana, AMR-related infections accounted for an estimated 4.95 million deaths in 2019. With decreasing efficacy of current antibiotics, antivirulence strategies such as quorum sensing (QS) and efflux pump inhibition offer promising alternatives that reduce pathogenicity without exerting strong selective pressure. Salacia debilis, a medicinal shrub from the Celastraceae family, is traditionally used to treat malaria. SD-03 (Benzyl 2-methoxybenzoate), SD-04 (1,10-dihydroxy-6H-benzo[c]chromen-6-one), and SD-05 (2,4-dimethoxy-8-methyldibenzo[b,d]furan-1-carboxylic acid) previously isolated from S. debilis, have shown moderate antimalarial and antimicrobial activity. However, there is no information on their QS and efflux pump inhibitory activities. This study, thus investigates the QS and efflux pump inhibitory activities of S. debilis extracts and compounds, using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to identify potential protein targets. Crude and ethyl acetate extracts inhibited the growth of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 6.25 to 25.00 mg/ml. Molecular docking revealed strong interactions between SD-03, SD-04, and SD-05 with key QS proteins (LasR, RhlR, PqsR) and the NorA efflux pump protein. LasR binding affinities were -9.8, -10.4, and -6.6 kcal/mol, respectively. These preliminary results suggest that S. debilis compounds may have antivirulence potential by targeting QS and efflux mechanisms. Further in vitro and in silico studies are needed to confirm these effects and explore their mechanisms of action.
Keywords: Salacia debilis; antimicrobial resistance; ESKAPE pathogens; antivirulence; quorum sensing; efflux pump; molecular docking.

Background: Depression among first time postpartum mothers may influenced how their babies are fed. Despite reported cases of depression in Bamvim community in Northern region, little studies have assessed the effect of depression and its relationship with child feeding.
Aim: To examine the effect of maternal postpartum depression on child feeding among first time mothers in Tamale metropolis
Method: The study employed analytical cross sectional study design consisting of 52 first time postpartum mothers. The data was collected using a validated questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. All statistical test were conducted at 5% significance level.
Findings: The study revealed that 89% of respondents reported depression above the screening cutoff. Respondents who showed severe depression were 4.12 times more likely not to breastfeed their babies as compared to those who were not depressed (AOR 4.12, 95% CI 0.12-6.91; p <0.001). The study found that, respondents who showed severe depression were 2.22 times more likely to have malnourished children as compared to those who were not depressed (AOR 2.22, 95% CI 0.12-4.41; p=0.002). From the findings, 67% respondents who were depressed did not pressure their babies to feed.
Conclusion: Respondents who showed postpartum depression exhibited poor feeding practices as compared to those without depression. Depressed mothers were more likely to have malnourished children. The study recommended that, health staff should conduct early depression screening of first time mothers at the first trimester to help reduce the effect on child feeding in Bamvim community.

Keywords: Depression, postpartum, malnourished, feeding, Bamvim

Background: Green rooibos tea, known for its rich polyphenol content and potential metabolic benefits, has gained interest as a potential natural intervention for weight management. However, its effect on resting metabolic rate (RMR), body composition, hydration, and appetite-related sensations remains largely unexplored. This randomised crossover study examined the short-term effects of green rooibos tea on RMR, body composition, and appetite-related sensations in overweight and obese women.
Methods: Twenty-six physically inactive participants were randomised into two groups (rooibos and control). Each participant underwent both conditions: 7 days of and without tea consumption, separated by a 7-day washout period. The participants consumed 12g of rooibos tea daily (infused in 1200 ml of water) during the intervention phase. Data was collected at baseline, after 1-3 hours of tea consumption (acute phase), and after seven days. The RMR, body composition indices, hydration status, and appetite ratings were assessed. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA, paired t-tests, and forest plots to compare outcomes across timepoints and conditions were analysed.
Results: There were no significant changes in overall RMR, body composition indices, dietary intake, hydration of the participants. However, there was a significant time effect on metabolic rate at the acute trial (p < 0.05, ηp² = 0.196), and all acute appetite-related sensations (all p < 0.05) except fullness, and a significant time effect of thirst at the short term (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: These findings suggest that short-term rooibos tea consumption does significantly impact metabolic rate and appetite-related sensation acutely. Although rooibos is rich in polyphenols and often promoted for weight management, its effects appear modest and localised, warranting further investigation in longer-term studies to assess its potential role in metabolic health.

The abstract summarises the bioactivity assessment, isolation and characterisation of compound/s from fermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa.The compound isolated was N-(2-phenylethyl) tetracosanamide.

Background: Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) remain a major public health issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Machine learning (ML)-based risk prediction models present opportunities for early identification and intervention, yet there is limited evidence of their application and predictive performance in LMICs. The review aimed to map the existing evidence on ML models and input features used to predict APOs in LMICs.
Methods: This review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis extension for Scoping Reviews. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Scopus for articles from January 1, 2000, to June 26, 2024.
Results: Our search strategy yielded 4,680 records from which 351 duplicates were removed. After titles and abstracts screening, 114 full-text articles were assessed for full-text screening, out of which 25 were selected for inclusion in the review. An additional nine articles were identified from the references of the included studies, resulting in 34 being included in the final review. All the ML models used across the studies were supervised learning. The features most commonly used to train the ML models comprised maternal characteristics, clinical and obstetric history.
Conclusion: This review highlights the evolving yet limited application of ML-based risk prediction models for APOs in LMICs. Validating these models across different populations may be crucial for their integration into routine clinical care, ultimately enhancing maternal and child health.