Science and Development Journal

Effect of Hydraulic Retention Time on the Performance and Cleaning Mechanisms of Coconut Biochar Filtration Systems for Wastewater Treatment

Peace Korshiwor Amoatey — 2026-05-25

Re-purposing wastewater is necessary to circumvent water shortage for vegetable farmers in urban areas and to reduce public health hazards associated with using contaminated water for irrigation. The study investigated the efficiency of 40 cm and 30 cm thick coconut biochar filtration systems in removing Cu, Pb, total coliform, and E. coli from wastewater at 24-, 48-, and 168-hour hydraulic retention times (HRT). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy imaging were used to characterise the biochar. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) was used to analyse Cu and Pb while total coliform and E. coli were analysed using the incubation method. Characterization showed the properties of the biochar that enhances the removal of pollutants in wastewater. The optimal hydraulic retention time (HRT) was 168 hours, at which the biochar filtration systems achieved Pb removal efficiencies of up to 99.9%, Cu removal efficiencies of 100%, and Total Coliform removal efficiencies of up to 94.7%. However, the systems were ineffective in the removal of E. coli. This has implications for further research to explore double filtration systems for the removal of other parameters and emerging pollutants.

Cost and Affordability of Healthy Diets in West Africa: Implications for Nutrition Outcomes and Well-Being

Samuel Akonona — 2026-05-25

Malnutrition is a major public health issue globally with lower–middle–income countries being the most affected. It is associated with the upsurge of non-communicable diseases and their risk factors. This study assessed the cost and affordability of healthy diets in West Africa, as well as the nutritional and public health implications of the cost of healthy diets in the region. Data on the cost and affordability of healthy diets and nutritional outcomes in West Africa were obtained from the Global Nutrition Report and the FAOSTAT database. Data from the period 2010 to 2023 were used for the analysis and reporting. The cost of a healthy diet is calculated based on the least expensive locally available foods that meet energy needs (2,330 kcal/day) and adhere to food-based dietary guidelines. In all, 60% of the populace were unable to afford a healthy diet. Obesity was more prevalent among females than males across all countries. Female prevalence ranged from 8% in Niger to 38% in Mauritania, while male prevalence ranged from 3% in Sierra Leone to 14% in Senegal. The West African averages were 7.8% among males and 17.3% among females. The average undernourishment was 9.9% and 9% for males and females, respectively. Prevalence of diabetes was 9.6% and 10.9% for males and females, respectively, with Gambia and Niger recording the highest (15.8%) and lowest (6.2%), respectively. Among the under-five population, the prevalence of stunting was highest in Niger (46.5%), followed by Nigeria (33.5%). The highest prevalence of wasting (13.6%) was observed in Mauritania. Ghana reported the lowest prevalence of stunting (15.7%) and wasting (5.8%). Malnutrition is prevalent in West Africa due to the high cost of healthy foods. Measures should be taken to make healthy foods more accessible and affordable to the average populace.

An Assessment of Poultry Husbandry by selected Farmers in the Greater Accra area

Raphael Aloa Ayizanga — 2026-05-25

To ensure food security, constraints to improved animal production must be identified and addressed. This study assessed poultry husbandry practices focusing on housing design, stocking density, feeding, biosecurity and waste management among selected farmers in the Greater Accra region. A structured questionnaire was administered to 100 farmers across seven districts. Most farmers used intensive housing systems, with pens primarily oriented east-west, though only onethird adhered to recommended sidewall heights of 0.3 – 0.5 m. A major concern was widespread overstocking, with some farms exceeding recommended densities by up to 200%, often accompanied by poor litter conditions. Feeding practices were relatively good as most farmers fed birds twice daily using commercial feeds based on maize and fish meal. While awareness of biosecurity was high, implementation was inconsistent. Although 84% had isolation pens and 70.6% restricted vehicle access, only 14% controlled human entry and just 11.8% implemented clean/dirty zone separation. Footbaths were present on only 43.5% of farms and often incorrectly sited. Waste management was largely traditional as 48% used untreated manure, 39% burned waste and only 15% composted. These deficiencies may stem from limited technical knowledge and financial constraints. The study recommends regular training and support to improve housing, biosecurity and waste management practices to enhance bird welfare, productivity and reduce reliance on imported poultry.

Assessing Microbial Contamination and Water Safety Risks in the Black Volta River Basin of Northern Ghana

Enoch Akwasi Kosoe — 2026-05-25

Microbial contamination of surface water remains a critical public health concern, particularly in low-resource settings with limited access to safely managed drinking water. This study evaluates the microbial quality of the Black Volta River, a key water source for Wa Municipality in Northern Ghana, and examines the implications for water safety and public health. Water samples were collected from raw, treated, and distributed sources during both dry and rainy seasons in 2021 and 2022. Microbial analyses assessed total viable count (TVC), Escherichia coli, and total coliforms, benchmarked against World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Results revealed that raw water consistently exceeded WHO limits, with TVC levels reaching 580 CFU/ml and 1000 CFU/ml in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. Similarly, E. coli concentrations peaked at 250 CFU/ml (dry season) and 480 CFU/ml (rainy season). Treated and distributed water samples, however, consistently met WHO microbial quality guidelines, indicating effective disinfection by Ghana Water Limited. Seasonal dynamics significantly influenced contamination levels, with elevated microbial loads during the rainy season. Qualitative data from key informant interviews identified anthropogenic pressures, including open defecation, livestock grazing, and agricultural runoff along riverbanks, as major contributors to microbial pollution. Although the treatment system ensures compliance at the point of distribution, elevated raw water contamination levels increase operational burdens and treatment costs. The study underscores the need for integrated watershed protection, public sanitation education, and adaptive management strategies to safeguard water quality and public health in Ghana's rural and peri-urban communities.

Smartphone Addiction, Inattentional Blindness, and Perceived Effects among University Students in Ibadan, Nigeria

Isaac Oluwafeni Dipeolu — 2026-05-25

Smartphones are ubiquitous and serve as primary tools for both academic research (accessing library resources) and social networking (WhatsApp, browsing). Their addiction is common among university students in Nigeria, with adverse effects on their academic performances and well-being. Several studies have been conducted on smartphone addiction, but a few have focused on inattentional blindness caused by smartphone addiction. This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of smartphone addiction and inattentional blindness, the factors associated with smartphone addiction, and the perceived effects of smartphone addiction among university students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, and a multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 420 students from the University of Ibadan. A pretested, semi-structured questionnaire containing the Smartphone Addiction Scale was used to collect data. Data were analysed and pretested in descriptive and inferential statistics at p=0.05. Respondents' age was 24.3±5.0 years, 59.5% were females, and 90% were single. A majority (85.2%) agreed that they become engrossed in smartphone activities while walking, crossing the road, or eating, and 64.5% reported a time when they failed to notice something important happening around them while they were focused on their smartphone. The prevalence of smartphone addiction was 81.2%, and the prevalence of inattentional blindness was 81%. Most respondents (83.3%) agreed that social networks and smartphone functions make them feel attached to their smartphone (79.5%). Most (62.1%) reported wrist and neck pain from smartphone use. Findings revealed a high prevalence of smartphone addiction and inattentional blindness among university students, which could lead to an increase in the likelihood of accidents. Respondents have high perceived health effects towards smartphone addiction, but this did not influence their attitude towards smartphone use and pattern of smartphone usage. Health education interventions, such as sensitisation and enlightenment programmes, will help educate students about the dangers of inattentional blindness.

Effects of Edible Coatings and Storage Conditions on the Postharvest Quality of Papaya (Carica Papaya)

Gloria Ladjeh Essilfie — 2026-05-25

Postharvest deterioration significantly limits the shelf life and market quality of papaya, often leading to shorter shelf life, high losses, and overdependence on fungicides. Edible coatings have emerged as a promising eco-friendly approach for extending the shelf life and reducing microbial spoilage. This study investigated the efficacy of edible coatings [carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), moringa oil (MO), neem oil (NO)], and their combinations in preserving the quality and storability of Solo papaya under room (27 °C/78% RH) and refrigerated (10 °C/67% RH) conditions. Fruits were coated, air-dried, and stored for up to 28 days in a completely randomized factorial design. Prochloraz served as a positive control. Key quality parameters (pH, titratable acidity (TA), total soluble sugars (TSS), weight loss, firmness, and vitamin C) were monitored, and pathogenic fungi were isolated and tested for virulence. Results showed that papaya stored at room temperature lasted 9 days, while refrigeration extended shelf life to 21 days. Fruits coated with 1% CMC, 3% Prochloraz, and 1%CMC+1mLNO extended the shelf life of papaya up to 15 days at room temperature storage and 27 days under refrigeration storage. Among treatments, CMC combined with 3% MO best maintained quality attributes. Pathogenic fungi identified included Fusarium spp., Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Aspergillus niger. CMCNO and Prochloraz treatments significantly reduced disease incidence. Fewer fungal isolates were observed under refrigeration. These findings demonstrate the potential of edible coatings as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fungicides for extending shelf life, reducing postharvest losses, and maintaining papaya quality under tropical storage conditions.

Potential Refractory Ceramics and their Industrial Applications: A Review

Ebenezer Annan — 2026-05-25

The fabrication and use of ceramic material in pyro processing have been established and improved over the years. From traditional processing of raw materials to advanced high-technology material processing, ceramic refractories have been used in furnaces, kilns, ovens, and machine parts. This is attributed to the ceramic refractory’s resistance to high thermal stresses and chemical corrosion while maintaining structural integrity and chemical composition. This review examines the local raw materials for fabricating ceramic refractories for use in local industries in Ghana. There is a local market demand for ceramic refractory materials for applications in the traditional and advanced pyro processing industries. This demand is mostly met by imports from China, India, and Brazil. From the literature, the quality of the local raw materials to fabricate ceramic refractories for local industrial applications in the metal, glass, petrochemical, and cement production is discussed.

Radiation Dose Assessment for Common Computed Tomography Examination at a Teaching Hospital in Ghana

Savanna Nyarko — 2026-05-25

Computed tomography (CT) plays a pivotal role in clinical decision-making, particularly in the early detection and diagnosis of diseases affecting internal organs. CT uses X-rays and has the potential to cause cancer. Hence, it is imperative to keep radiation as low as reasonably achievable through optimized imaging protocols anchored in routine dosimetry and quality assurance. This study aimed to assess the radiation dose imparted to patients during common CT examinations with a newly installed 128-slice CT scanner at a teaching hospital in Ghana. CT examination data for 380 patients, collected from the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) of the radiology department of a teaching hospital, were analyzed. Dose indices such as CTDIvol, DLP, and ED were analyzed and compared to international standards. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Of the 380 CT scans analyzed, 58.2% were male and 41.8% were female. Head CTs were the most common (63.2%), followed by abdominal (23.2%) and chest scans (13.7%). Males had higher CTDIvol and DLP for head CTs, while females had higher values for chest and abdominal scans. The 46–65 age group had the highest scan frequency (30.3%). Head CTs had the highest radiation exposure, peaking at 30.73 mGy (CTDIvol) and 699.18 mGy·cm (DLP) in middle-aged adults, while the lowest doses were recorded in pediatric patients (1–5 years). ED values for head CT were higher in males than in females for chest and abdominal scans. Despite some variation in CT doses between the genders, they were within the European Commission Radiation Protection No. 180 and ICRP publication 103 recommended dose reference levels, suggesting dose optimization.

Prevalence and Predictors of Stress, Anxiety, and Depression among Physicians in Two Selected Hospitals in Accra, Ghana

Ebenezer Owusu Wireko — 2026-05-25

Although work-related stress, anxiety, and depression are well-established globally, the mental well-being of healthcare professionals is often underprioritised in Sub-Saharan Africa. These conditions can impair communication, reduce productivity, increase absenteeism, and compromise the quality and safety of patient care. Little is known about the prevalence and determinants of stress, anxiety, and depression among physicians at two major referral hospitals in Accra: Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) and Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH). A cross-sectional study involving 394 physicians — 334 (85%) general physicians and 60 (15%) specialists — was conducted from June to August 2023 at KBTH and GARH, the two largest hospitals in the Greater Accra Region, selected because of their status as the principal referral centres serving the highest patient volumes in Ghana. The DASS-21 questionnaire measured levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Multiple logistic regression identified associated risk factors. Stress, anxiety, and depression were reported by 24.9% (95% CI: 0.21–0.29), 57.4% (95% CI: 0.52–0.62), and 36.0% (95% CI: 0.31–0.41) of participants, respectively. Stress was significantly associated with working at KBTH (AOR=2.27; p=0.031), being a medical officer (AOR=0.21; p=0.005), 1–3 years of experience (AOR=9.83; p<0.001), and seeing 10–20 (AOR=4.12; p<0.001) or >20 patients daily (AOR=6.38; p<0.001). Anxiety was associated with KBTH (AOR=1.95; p=0.005), 4–6 years of practice (AOR=1.78; p=0.039), ≥7 years (AOR=0.29; p=0.001), working in surgery (AOR=0.43; p=0.043) or theatre (AOR=4.02; p=0.019), and patient volume. Depression was linked to KBTH (AOR=2.50; p=0.004), age ≥50 years (AOR=32.88; p=0.010), medical officer rank (AOR=0.14; p<0.001), and higher patient load. The study revealed a high burden of psychological distress among physicians. Key predictors included workplace environment (KBTH), limited clinical experience, patient volume, and inadequate institutional support. Targeted interventions addressing workload management and mental health promotion are urgently needed in Ghana’s major referral hospitals.

A Critical Look at Sustainable Waste Management Practices Through the Protection Motivation Theory

Fortune Abla Nyamedaxe Djirackor — 2026-05-25

This study examined the influence of waste literacy and cognitive factors from the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) on sustainable waste management (SWM) behaviours among residents in the Accra Metropolis, Ghana. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 395 households selected through multistage sampling. Key constructs assessed included threat appraisal (perceived severity and vulnerability), coping appraisal (self-efficacy and response efficacy), and ownership appraisal. The findings revealed that while 81% of respondents were aware of sustainable waste management practices, such as reuse (38%) and recycling (29%), actual engagement in these practices was lower. Plastic and rubber waste (78%) were the most commonly generated waste types, and 90% of households did not separate their waste before disposal. Waste literacy levels were low, with 46% of respondents understanding it as "knowledge of waste management practices. The study also identified key challenges to sustainable waste management, including a lack of education on proper waste practices, social and cultural norms and financial constraints. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders can foster a cleaner and healthier environment in the Accra Metropolis. The findings also demonstrated that higher threat appraisal—where residents recognised the severe risks of poor waste management—did not motivate proactive waste-reduction efforts. Also, coping appraisal, which reflects individuals’ confidence in managing waste, was weak, indicating a need for capacity-building initiatives. Ownership appraisal revealed a high sense of responsibility among residents, but this did not always translate into effective action due to practical challenges. The study recommends enhancing public waste literacy, improving waste management infrastructure, and implementing communitybased programs to encourage proper waste practices.